There is no Uber in Bangkok, but there is a ride-hailing service called ‘Grab,’ which operates the same way. Still, relying on rideshares and taxis when you’re traveling can quickly eat up a day’s budget. The more economical way to get around is by having a rental car.
Travelers interested in a car rental at Don Mueang Airport can depend on Drive Car Rental for all their needs. We have a convenient location right inside the domestic terminal on level three near the information counter.
What Is a Grab Car?
Grab purchased all of Uber’s SE Asian operations several years ago. Since then, it has been the default ride-sharing app throughout the region. It operates the same way as Uber, so pricing differs based on destination and time of day.
Grab accepts credit cards through the app, but cards must be added and stored in your Grab account. Some users with foreign cards sometimes report problems using this service, so you should always carry small bills when traveling by Grab or taxi.
Ride prices increase dramatically during peak hours, which are 7:00 to 9:00, 11:30 to 13:30, and 16:30 to 20:30. Wait times also increase at these times, and a twenty-minute delay is not uncommon. At these times, it may be better to flag down a passing taxi.
Riders also need to be aware that while a Grab Car will take you almost anywhere, you won’t always be able to find a ride home. This is especially true when taking day trips to rural areas. There are few to no Grab Cars in these towns, and finding a taxi back to Bangkok can mean a hefty taxi fare.
For tourists who have a multi-stop agenda or are traveling for several days, a rental vehicle is likely much more economical.
Advantages of a Rental Versus a Grab Car
Renting a car for a full day can cost the same as a few rides around town, and it provides amazing flexibility. There is no waiting for rides, no bending your schedule around off-peak hours, and no paying high fares for short trips. Renters can choose where and when to go at any time. They also get their choice of vehicle, from compacts and sedans to SUVs and electrics.
Privacy and personal comfort are also factors. Feel free to set the AC to max or roll the windows down to hear the sights and sounds of SE Asia’s largest city. A rental is also fantastic for families and groups with large amounts of luggage. Rental SUVs and vans have plenty of seating and storage space. Grab has an SUV option, but the fare prices are often double that of a normal vehicle.
Places Only a Rental Car Can Take You
Bangkok is a fantastic jumping-off point for several locations between one and three hours away. Here are some of the highlights of the region:
- Kanchanaburi, its famed waterfalls, and the bridge over the River Kwai are located three hours to the west.
- Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital, is home to hundreds of ancient temples and is just ninety minutes north of the city.
- Pattaya, the legendary beach city, is located two hours south.
- Khao Yai National Park, a nature-lover’s paradise, is just two and a half hours to the northeast.
For something close to the pick-up location, see Drive Car Rental’s guide to Wat Don Mueang temple travel tips.
Go Further, Save More With Drive Car Rental
Drive Car Rental has locations in major cities and airports across Thailand, with several partner locations in smaller provincial capitals. We offer competitive daily rates with early bird discounts for those who book early.
Expats, long-stay tourists, and business travelers can also take advantage of monthly and yearly rentals through Drive Car Rental. These options are extremely affordable when compared with daily or weekly rental rates.
Anyone planning to visit during the tourist high season from November to April is advised to book a rental car as early as possible. Selections may be limited during these times, and the sooner you book, the better chances you have of securing the best vehicle at the best rates!