Popular Transport in Trat

There are two main ways to travel from Bangkok to Trat: long-distance buses and flights. You can take a long-distance bus from Bangkok's Ekkamai or Mo Chit Bus Terminal, with a journey time of approximately five to six hours. This is the most economical option. If you choose to fly, you can take a domestic flight to Trat Airport (TDX), which takes about an hour. Upon arrival, you'll need to take a minivan or taxi to Trat town or the pier. This saves time but is more costly.

The main modes of transport within Trat town include songthaews (converted pickup trucks), motorcycle taxis, and regular taxis. Songthaews operate on fixed routes or can be hired privately for a negotiated fare, making them a popular choice for locals and tourists. Motorcycle taxis are convenient for short distances. If you need to travel further or have luggage, taxis are available. Many travelers also opt to rent a motorbike or car for greater flexibility.

There are two main piers in Trat for ferries to Koh Chang: Centrepoint Pier and Ao Thammachat Pier. Ferry services typically run from morning until evening, with departures every hour or half-hour. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the pier and your destination. It's advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, to ensure a smooth trip. You can book tickets through local travel agents or some online platforms, such as KKday, which offers Chinese customer service and flexible cancellation policies for ease of booking.

When traveling in Trat, it's recommended to plan your transportation in advance. If you plan island-hopping, be sure to confirm ferry schedules and arrangements for transport on the islands. Within town, songthaews and motorcycle taxis offer convenience, but renting a motorbike or car provides more flexibility for exploring surrounding areas. When riding a motorbike, prioritize safety, wear a helmet, and familiarize yourself with local road conditions. Before taking a taxi or songthaew, it's a good idea to confirm your destination and general direction with the driver to ensure clear communication. Additionally, it's important to allow ample buffer time for travel to avoid unexpected delays.

During the rainy season (approximately May to October), transportation in Trat may be affected. While land transportation like bus services are generally unaffected by heavy rain, road conditions can become slippery, requiring extra caution from drivers. Ferry services to outer islands like Koh Chang might experience delays or cancellations due to rough seas, especially during severe weather. Travelers visiting during the rainy season should monitor weather forecasts and confirm the latest ferry information with the ferry companies or local travel agents to adjust their plans flexibly.

An airport transfer service from Trat Airport is a highly worthwhile option for many travelers. The distance from Trat Airport (TDX) to the town or main piers can be significant, and booking a transfer saves you the hassle of finding transport upon arrival. This service is particularly beneficial for first-time visitors, those with a lot of luggage, or anyone who wants a direct and comfortable journey to their destination without transfers. Services like those offered on platforms such as KKday provide Chinese customer support and flexible cancellation, ensuring a smooth and worry-free travel experience.

For getting around Trat town, renting a motorbike is generally more economical than taking taxis (including songthaews), especially if you plan to move frequently or require a high degree of flexibility. Renting a motorbike allows you to explore freely, but requires riding experience and familiarity with local traffic rules. If you're not comfortable riding a motorbike, are traveling in a group, or have a lot of luggage, taking a taxi or songthaew would be a more comfortable and convenient choice for short trips or specific routes, though the cost per trip might be higher. Both options have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your personal needs.

The most common way to travel from Trat to the Cambodian border is via the Hat Lek border crossing in southeastern Trat, which corresponds to Koh Kong in Cambodia. You can take a minivan or taxi from the bus station in Trat town to this border crossing. The journey typically takes one to two hours, depending on traffic conditions. It's advisable to plan your transportation in advance and confirm the border crossing's operating hours to ensure a smooth arrival.

It is generally recommended to book bus tickets to or from Trat in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. You can purchase tickets directly at Bangkok's Ekkamai or Mo Chit Bus Terminals, or buy return tickets at the Trat Bus Station. Some local travel agencies or hotels may also offer booking services. Booking in advance helps secure your seat, particularly for popular routes, and avoids travel delays due to full services.

Yes, during the peak tourist season in Trat (typically from November to February), transportation becomes more crowded than usual. This is especially noticeable in the pier areas for popular islands like Koh Chang, where increased crowds and vehicles can lead to longer waiting times for ferries. Traffic flow on main roads, bus stations, and around the airport also increases significantly. Travelers visiting during peak season are advised to allow extra travel time and consider pre-booking transportation transfers to ensure a smooth journey.