Trat is the gateway to some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, including Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood. Whether you are looking for the fastest route, the most affordable transportation, or the easiest connection to the islands, this guide explains everything you need to know about traveling from Bangkok to Trat.
Overview: How to Get from Bangkok to Trat
Travelers have three main transportation options:
| Transportation Method | Travel Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | Approximately 1 hour | THB 2,500–5,000+ |
| Bus or Minivan | 5–8 hours | THB 315–700 |
| Private Taxi or Car | 4–4.5 hours | THB 3,500–5,000+ |
For travelers continuing to Koh Chang, Koh Mak, or Koh Kood, arriving in Trat by early afternoon is recommended to ensure enough time for ferry connections.
Option 1: Bus or Minivan from Bangkok to Trat
For most travelers, buses and minivans offer the best balance between cost and convenience.
Departure Points in Bangkok
Several transportation hubs provide daily services to Trat:
- Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Northern Bus Terminal)
- Ekkamai Bus Terminal (Eastern Bus Terminal)
- Suvarnabhumi Airport
- Khao San Road area
Ekkamai is often the most convenient choice for visitors staying in central Bangkok, while Mo Chit offers the widest selection of departures.
Travel Time
Journey times vary depending on traffic, operator, and route.
- Direct bus: approximately 5–6 hours
- Minivan services: approximately 5–7 hours
- Combined routes with additional stops: up to 8 hours
Ticket Prices
Typical fares include:
| Service Type | Estimated Fare |
| Standard Express Bus | THB 315–450 |
| Bus or Minivan Service | THB 350–600 |
| Premium Minivan | THB 650–700 |
| Bus + Ferry Combination Ticket | Around THB 600 |
Departure Schedule
Most services operate daily with departures between:
- Early morning: approximately 5:00 AM
- Evening: approximately 6:30 PM
Morning departures are recommended for travelers planning to continue to the islands on the same day.
Arrival in Trat
Most buses and minivans arrive at Trat Bus Terminal.
From there, local transportation is available to:
- Laem Ngop Ferry Pier (Koh Chang)
- Speedboat piers for Koh Mak
- Speedboat piers for Koh Kood
- Hotels in Trat Town
Many transportation providers also offer combined tickets that include ferry transfers, reducing the need for multiple bookings.
Option 2: Flight from Bangkok to Trat
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Trat.
Flight Information
Direct flights operate between:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
- Trat Airport (TDX)
Flight Duration
- Approximately 1 hour
Estimated Airfare
Prices vary by season and booking date.
| Season | Typical One-Way Fare |
| Low Season | THB 2,500–4,000 |
| High Season | THB 4,000–6,000+ |
Booking several weeks in advance often provides the best value.
Airport Transfers
Upon arrival at Trat Airport, travelers can easily arrange:
- Shared minivan transfers
- Private taxis
- Direct transfers to ferry piers
Many airport transfers are timed to coincide with arriving flights, making onward travel to Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood relatively straightforward.
Who Should Fly?
Flying is ideal for:
- Short vacations
- Families with children
- Travelers with limited time
- Visitors seeking maximum comfort
Option 3: Private Taxi or Car Transfer
Private transportation offers the greatest flexibility and convenience.
Travel Time
- Approximately 4–4.5 hours
Travel times may increase during weekends, public holidays, and peak travel periods.
Estimated Cost
Typical private transfer prices range between:
- THB 3,500–5,000+
The final cost depends on:
- Pickup location
- Vehicle type
- Number of passengers
- Seasonal demand
Advantages of a Private Transfer
A private transfer may be the best option if you:
- Are traveling as a group
- Carry large luggage
- Want hotel-to-hotel service
- Prefer flexible departure times
For groups of three or four travelers, the cost can be surprisingly competitive when shared.
Continuing to the Islands
Koh Chang
From Trat, most travelers continue to Laem Ngop Pier.
- Ferry crossing time: approximately 30–45 minutes
- Frequent daily departures
Koh Mak
Speedboats typically depart from mainland piers near Laem Ngop.
- Travel time: approximately 45–60 minutes
Koh Kood
Several speedboat services connect the mainland with Koh Kood.
- Travel time: approximately 60–90 minutes
Schedules may change depending on weather and season.
Essential Travel Tips
Book Ahead During High Season
Between November and April, transportation and ferry services can fill quickly. Advance reservations are highly recommended.
Choose Morning Departures
Morning departures from Bangkok provide the best chance of reaching your island destination before evening.
Carry Cash
While many businesses accept cards, cash is still useful for:
- Local taxis
- Songthaews
- Small restaurants
- Snacks and drinks
Travel Light
Smaller luggage makes transfers between buses, ferries, and island transportation much easier.
Check Ferry Schedules Before Departure
Ferry and speedboat schedules can vary by season and weather conditions. Always verify departure times before traveling.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Bangkok to Trat is straightforward and offers options for every budget and travel style. Buses and minivans provide affordable transportation, flights save valuable vacation time, and private transfers deliver maximum convenience.
For first-time visitors heading to Koh Chang, Koh Mak, or Koh Kood, an early morning departure from Bangkok combined with a same-day ferry connection is often the most efficient travel plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Trat?
Flying from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat Airport is the fastest option, with a flight time of approximately one hour.
2. How long does the bus from Bangkok to Trat take?
Most buses take between 5 and 6 hours, although some journeys can take up to 8 hours depending on traffic and stops.
3. How much does a bus ticket from Bangkok to Trat cost?
Bus and minivan fares generally range from THB 315 to THB 700.
4. Can I travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang directly?
Yes. Some transportation services offer combined bus and ferry tickets that connect Bangkok directly with Koh Chang.
5. Is Trat worth visiting, or is it only a transit destination?
Trat is primarily known as a gateway to nearby islands, but the town itself offers local markets, temples, and a relaxed atmosphere.
6. How far is Trat from Bangkok?
The distance is approximately 315 kilometers by road.
7. What is the best transportation option for families?
Flights and private transfers are generally the most comfortable options for families with children.
8. Do I need to book transportation in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended during weekends, holidays, and the high tourist season.
9. Can I reach Koh Kood and Koh Mak on the same day from Bangkok?
Yes. An early departure from Bangkok usually allows enough time to connect with afternoon speedboats.
10. When is the best time to travel from Bangkok to Trat?
The dry season from November to April generally offers the best weather and the most reliable ferry schedules.
