When traveling around Thailand, having the right tools can make your trip smoother and stress-free. From finding your way to booking a last-minute hotel to communicating with locals, these travel apps will help you navigate the country easily. I’ve rounded up the must-have apps you should install before your trip to Thailand, so let’s jump right into it.
Navigation
Google Maps
Price: Free
Google Maps is the go-to app for navigation in Thailand. It’s accurate and works almost everywhere in the country. Whether you need directions while walking around Bangkok’s chaotic streets or looking for a nearby restaurant in Chiang Mai, Google Maps has you covered. You can also download maps for offline use, which is a great hack if you don’t have a local SIM card or stable internet access.
MAPS.ME
Price: Free
If you’re planning on heading into less urban areas like national parks or the islands, MAPS.ME is an excellent choice. What sets it apart from Google Maps is its detailed offline maps, which even work in rural areas. You can plot out your whole trip, and it provides walking trails where Google Maps might fall short. Download the Thailand maps before your trip and you’ll be good to go as soon as you land.
Translation
Google Translate
Price: Free
Google Translate is hands down the best app for translating Thai. Whether you’re ordering Pad Thai or asking for directions, the instant camera translation feature is a lifesaver. Just point the camera at menus or street signs and it will translate them on the spot. You can even download the Thai language pack for offline use, which is super helpful if you’re in a place without internet access.
iTranslate
Price: Free with In-App Purchases
iTranslate is another handy translation app when you need quick translations on the go. It has voice-to-voice translation, which can help in conversations with locals. The app also allows offline translation, though you’ll need to upgrade to the paid version for that. It includes a Thai phrasebook as well, so you can start picking up some basic local phrases to make your trip more immersive.
Booking
Agoda
Price: Free
Agoda is a must-have for booking accommodations in Thailand. From hostels to luxury hotels, it offers a broad range of options. The app often has exclusive discounts, especially in Southeast Asia, so it’s a great way to save money. Plus, the app is easy to navigate, and you can filter by budget, location, or amenities. If you’re a last-minute planner like me, Agoda will come in handy.
Booking.com
Price: Free
Booking.com is another reliable option for booking accommodations in Thailand. While it doesn’t always offer the same discounts as Agoda, it does have a larger selection of properties. What I love about Booking.com is its free cancellation policy on many properties, giving you flexibility if your plans change. You’ll also find plenty of guest reviews to help you make an informed choice.
Skyscanner
Price: Free
Skyscanner is essential for anyone flying within Thailand or from nearby countries. The app helps you compare flights to find the cheapest, fastest routes. You can also set up price alerts, so you’ll get notified when flights drop in price. It’s perfect for travelers who want to plan spontaneous trips but also save some cash on airfare.
Local Transportation
Grab
Price: Free
Grab is your answer to Uber in Thailand. You can use it to book taxis, motorbikes, or car rides. The prices are usually fair, and the app provides a cashless payment option, making it convenient for tourists who don’t have exact change ready. It’s especially useful in Bangkok and other large cities, where negotiating taxi fares can get tricky. Download Grab and you’ll always have a ride at your fingertips.
BTS Skytrain and MRT Apps
Price: Free
The BTS Skytrain and the MRT (subway) are must-use public transit options in Bangkok. Each of these has its own official app that helps you navigate routes, get schedules, and check ticket prices. If you’re staying in the city for a while, I’d recommend having both apps to make your BTS and MRT use smooth. They also come with station maps, so you’ll never get lost underground.
12Go Asia
Price: Free
12Go Asia is perfect for intercity and inter-country transport in Southeast Asia. It helps you book buses, trains, and ferries with ease, especially for popular routes like Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Phuket to the surrounding islands. The app includes schedules and fares to help you decide the best way to travel from city to city. You can even book everything within the app, so no need for long lines at transport terminals.
Money Management
Wise
Price: Free
Wise is an affordable way to send money or exchange currencies. If you’re trying to avoid high ATM fees or currency exchanges with bad rates, Wise lets you transfer money using mid-market rates. You can convert your home currency to Thai Baht and use the Wise Mastercard to pay for things, avoiding huge losses on exchange rates and fees. I recommend it to anyone taking multiple trips or traveling long-term.
XE Currency Converter
Price: Free
XE is one of the most reliable currency converter apps. While most travelers may have mobile banking options already, XE is great for converting prices on the spot when shopping or going out. The app works offline too, so you’ll have the most recent rates at your fingertips even without data or Wi-Fi. This is one of those simple but incredibly useful apps for keeping track of your spending in Thai Baht.
Safety and Health
Klook
Price: Free
Klook is awesome for booking attractions, tours, transport tickets, and activities, especially in Thailand. You’ll find tons of discounted deals for everything from cooking classes in Chiang Mai to island-hopping tours in Phuket. It’s also great for booking airport transfers, making it a lot easier to navigate when you first arrive in Thailand. Plus, everything is bookable on your phone, no paper tickets required.
Traveloka
Price: Free
Traveloka is an all-in-one app that covers everything from flights to bus tickets to entertainment. It’s widely used in Southeast Asia and often has exclusive offers like vouchers or discounts. You can even use it to book wellness services or health coverage, which could come in handy if you’re looking to book a spa or need urgent medical insurance. It’s a robust app if you need more than transportation and accommodation bookings.
Offline Travel Guides
Triposo
Price: Free
If you’re going to be without a network connection for a while, Triposo is a great offline travel guide. Download the Thailand guide before your trip, and you’ll have access to recommendations for attractions, restaurants, and more – all without needing to be online. It’s a little less exhaustive than apps like Google, but it’s perfect when you need quick info in areas without good service.
Lonely Planet Guides
Price: Free with In-App Purchases
The Lonely Planet app offers a wealth of information from one of the most trusted travel publishers. You can download its city guides for Thailand for offline use, which is super useful when you’re in remote areas. The app also includes maps, restaurant picks, and even suggests itineraries. While some guides require a small purchase, they offer a lot of value, especially if you prefer curated recommendations.
Final Thoughts
Having the right tech tools on your phone can make your trip to Thailand smoother, whether it’s for navigation, booking, translation, or finding out the best local spots. Remember to download these apps before you arrive so you’re equipped from the moment you get off the plane. Safe travels, and enjoy the amazing journey that Thailand offers!
Leave a reply