Quick Answer
The best way to get from Roi Et Airport (ROI) to Bueng Phlan Chai is by pre-booked taxi or private transfer. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs ฿1,300 - ฿1,800. While there is no direct public transport, the most budget-friendly option is a combination of local songthaew and bus via Roi Et City, taking 2.5-3 hours for under ฿300. Your key transit hub is Roi Et Bus Terminal (Bor Kor Sor Roi Et).
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
For direct, hassle-free travel, a taxi or private transfer is the top choice, especially with luggage or in a group.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (THB) | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi (Metered) | ฿1,300 - ฿1,600 | 70-90 mins | Solo travelers/couples |
| Pre-booked Private Car | ฿1,500 - ฿1,800 | 70-90 mins | Families, groups, assured service |
| Van Transfer (6-10 pax) | ฿2,500 - ฿3,500 | 70-90 mins | Large groups or tours |
How to Book & What to Expect
At the Airport: The official taxi counter is inside the arrivals hall. You pay a fixed fare based on your destination, receive a ticket, and are directed to a driver. This eliminates negotiation. Pre-booking online via platforms like Klook or 12Go.asia is highly recommended for guaranteed availability, English-speaking drivers, and sometimes better rates. Most cars are sedans with limited trunk space; specify if you have oversized luggage.
Detailed Route & Insider Advice
The driver will take Highway 2044 and then Highway 23 southwest towards Bueng Phlan Chai. The road is generally in good condition. Tip: Have your destination's name written in Thai to show the driver. While Bueng Phlan Chai is known locally, specifying a major landmark like the district office (Sala Klang Amphoe) or your hotel is crucial.
Public Bus & Songthaew: The Budget Adventure
This multi-leg journey is for cost-conscious travelers seeking an authentic local experience. Patience and flexibility are required.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Airport to Roi Et City (Bor Kor Sor): Take a songthaew (shared pickup truck) from outside the airport. They wait for flights. Fare: ~฿50-80 per person. Travel time: ~30 mins. Tell the driver "Bor Kor Sor Roi Et".
- Roi Et to Bueng Phlan Chai Bus: At Roi Et Bus Terminal, find buses bound for Maha Sarakham or Khon Kaen via Route 23. Ask the ticket window for "Bueng Phlan Chai". Buses depart every 30-60 minutes until ~5:00 PM. Fare: ~฿70-100. Travel time: ~1 hour.
- Arrival in Bueng Phlan Chai: You will be dropped off on the main highway (Route 23). From there, you may need a local motorcycle taxi (motorsai) to your final destination (~฿30-50).
Key Considerations
- Total Cost: Approximately ฿150 - ฿250.
- Total Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours (highly variable).
- Luggage: Difficult with large suitcases on crowded songthaews and buses.
- Last Bus: Do not land late, as the last bus from Roi Et may depart by late afternoon. Always confirm return schedules on-site.
Train: The Scenic but Impractical Route
Note: There is no direct or convenient train service between Roi Et Airport and Bueng Phlan Chai. The nearest major train station is in Khon Kaen, over 120 km away. This option involves a taxi (1.5 hrs) to Khon Kaen station, then a train to Maha Sarakham, followed by another taxi to Bueng Phlan Chai—a convoluted 5+ hour journey costing more than a direct airport taxi. It is not recommended for this specific transfer unless you are part of a wider Thailand rail tour. For reference, check schedules on the State Railway of Thailand website.
Ticket Options & Cost Comparison
Here’s a direct comparison to help you decide. Prices are per person unless stated for the vehicle.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (THB) | Travel Time | Comfort Level | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi/Car (Recommended) | ฿1,300 - ฿1,800 (car) | 1h 15m | High (Door-to-door, AC) | Most travelers, families, groups, with luggage |
| Public Bus & Songthaew (Cheapest) | ฿150 - ฿250 | 2.5 - 3.5h | Low (Multiple transfers, no AC guaranteed) | Solo backpackers, budget travelers, minimal luggage |
| Van Transfer | ฿2,500+ (van) | 1h 15m | High | Groups of 6+ |
| Train (via Khon Kaen) | ฿1,500+ (with taxis) | 5h+ | Medium | Rail enthusiasts only |
Booking Advice: For taxis/transfers, use 12Go.asia, a reputable regional platform. For buses, tickets are purchased directly at the Roi Et Bus Terminal. No advanced booking is needed or available for local buses.
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips
Beyond schedules and fares, here are insights from firsthand experience to smooth your journey.
Luggage & Logistics
- Pack Light for Public Transport: If opting for bus/songthaew, a backpack is far more manageable than a rolling suitcase.
- Cash is King: Have ample small Thai Baht (฿20, ฿50, ฿100 notes) for songthaews, bus tickets, and motorcycle taxis. Card payments are unavailable.
Navigation & Communication
- Use Google Maps Offline: Download the Isan region map. While generally accurate for main roads, pin your exact destination.
- Thai Language Helper: Have “Bueng Phlan Chai” (บึงพลาญชัย) and “Roi Et Bus Station” (สถานีขนส่งร้อยเอ็ด) written in Thai on your phone. A simple "Pai Bor Kor Sor Roi Et dai mai?" (Can you go to Roi Et bus station?) goes a long way.
Timing & Seasonal Advice
- Avoid Late Arrivals: Flights landing after 3:00 PM push you against the last bus departures, making a taxi the only safe choice.
- Hot Season (Mar-May): The wait for a songthaew or bus can be grueling in the heat. The extra cost for an air-conditioned taxi is worth it.
- Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): Roads are fine, but spontaneous heavy downpours can make transferring between vehicles unpleasant.
FAQs: Getting from Roi Et Airport to Bueng Phlan Chai
Is there a direct bus from Roi Et Airport to Bueng Phlan Chai?
No. There is no direct public bus. You must first take a local songthaew to Roi Et City's main bus terminal, then catch an inter-city bus to Bueng Phlan Chai.
What is the fastest way to get to Bueng Phlan Chai from ROI airport?
The fastest way is a pre-booked private taxi or transfer, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes non-stop.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Roi Et Airport?
The cheapest way is the public songthaew and bus combo, with a total cost of under ฿300 per person. However, it requires multiple transfers and more time.
Should I book my taxi in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Pre-booking online guarantees a car, often at a fixed price, and avoids uncertainty, especially during peak travel hours or if your flight arrives late.
Can I use Grab at Roi Et Airport?
Grab (Southeast Asia's ride-hailing app) is not reliably available in Roi Et. Do not depend on it. Use the official airport taxi counter or a pre-booked service instead.
Is it easy to find taxis at Roi Et Airport?
Yes, but the supply is limited to arriving flights. There is an official taxi desk. For the best service and fixed pricing, pre-booking is still advised.
Is the taxi fare per person or per car?
Taxi and private transfer fares from the airport are quoted for the entire vehicle, not per person. This makes them cost-effective for groups of 2-4.
Is traveling with children easy on public transport?
It is challenging. The songthaew and bus combo offers no child seats, can be crowded, and involves hauling luggage during transfers. A private car is strongly recommended for families.