Quick Answer
Best option: Take a taxi or tuk‑tuk from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport (ROI). The trip covers 8–10 km and takes 10–20 minutes, costing 150–250 THB (4–7 USD). No train or direct bus connects the two points. For budget travellers, a songthaew (shared pick‑up truck) costs 50–100 THB but requires a short walk to the terminal entrance. Motorcycle taxis offer the fastest door‑to‑door ride at 50–80 THB.
🚕 Taxi & Tuk‑tuk – The Most Convenient Choice
Taxis and tuk‑tuk are the most straightforward way to travel the 8–10 km between Roi Et Bus Terminal and Roi Et Airport. They operate on demand, require no booking, and drop you directly at the departures curb.
Typical Fares (2025)
| Vehicle | Price Range (THB) | Price Range (USD) | Trip Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered taxi | 150–250 THB | 4–7 USD | 10–20 min | Insist on meter; flagfall ~35 THB |
| Tuk‑tuk | 100–200 THB | 3–6 USD | 12–22 min | Negotiate price before boarding |
| Grab car (ride‑hailing) | 180–280 THB | 5–8 USD | 10–18 min | Fixed price via app; surge possible |
Where to Find Them
- Taxi stand: A small queue of taxis waits just outside the bus terminal's main entrance on Thanon Charoenrat.
- Tuk‑tuk parking: Tuk‑tuk drivers congregate near the terminal's side gate and the market area 100 m east.
- Grab app: Available in Roi Et; book via the Grab app and meet your driver at the terminal drop‑off zone.
Tips for a Smooth Ride
- Always confirm the price before getting in – some drivers may try to overcharge tourists.
- Request the meter in a taxi ("Meter, please"). If the driver refuses, negotiate a fixed fare.
- Have the airport code ROI or the Thai name ท่าอากาศยานร้อยเอ็ด written down to show the driver.
- Tuk‑tuks are open‑air – expect dust and heat; they are not ideal if you carry large luggage.
Why choose a taxi? It is the fastest, most reliable option for most travelers. The cost is modest compared to the convenience, especially if you are catching a flight and need to arrive stress‑free.
🚐 Songthaew & Local Bus – The Budget Option
Songthaews (converted pick‑up trucks with benches) are the backbone of public transport in Roi Et province. They run along fixed routes and are the cheapest way to reach the airport – but with some caveats.
How It Works
- Route: Songthaews depart from the Roi Et Municipal Market (about 400 m west of the bus terminal) and travel south on Highway 2044 toward the airport.
- Stop: They do not enter the airport grounds. You will be dropped at the Airport Intersection (ทางแยกสนามบิน), a 600–800 m walk from the terminal building.
- Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes between 06:00 and 18:00. Less frequent in the early morning and late afternoon.
Cost & Timing
| Mode | Fare (THB) | Fare (USD) | Total Time (incl. walk) | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Songthaew (shared) | 50–100 THB | 1.5–3 USD | 25–40 min | Basic; shared bench |
| Local bus (blue) | 40–60 THB | 1.2–1.7 USD | 30–45 min | Basic; may be crowded |
Important Considerations
- Luggage: Songthaews have limited space – large suitcases may be difficult to accommodate. Buses have a small rear luggage compartment.
- Heat: Songthaews are open‑sided – bring a hat and water.
- Uncertainty: Drivers may change routes without notice. Confirm "Sanam Bin Roi Et?" before boarding.
- Last departure: The last songthaew toward the airport area leaves the market around 17:30 – plan accordingly for evening flights.
Verdict: Songthaews are viable only if you are on a tight budget, travel light, and have at least 30 minutes of buffer time. For most travelers, the extra 100 THB for a taxi is worth the convenience.
Source: Department of Land Transport Thailand – Local Route Information
🏍️ Motorcycle Taxi – Fast & Nimble
Motorcycle taxis (win moto sai) are a popular short‑haul option in Thai cities. In Roi Et, they offer the fastest door‑to‑door time from the bus terminal to the airport – often just 8–15 minutes.
Fares & Availability
- Price: 50–80 THB (1.5–2.5 USD) – negotiate beforehand.
- Where to find them: Motorcycle taxi stands are located at the bus terminal's front gate and near the market junction.
- Safety: Helmets are provided (check they are clean). Driving standards in Roi Et are generally relaxed but alert.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fastest option (bypasses traffic) | Not suitable for large luggage |
| Cheaper than taxi | Exposed to weather (rain, heat) |
| Easy to find at terminal | Less safe than a car |
| Flexible route (can go direct) | Can be intimidating for first‑time riders |
Who should choose this? Solo travelers with a small backpack, those arriving late when taxis are scarce, or anyone who wants to save every baht and minute. Not recommended for nervous passengers or heavy packers.
🚗 Private Transfer & Hotel Shuttle – Comfort & Certainty
If you value a seamless, pre‑arranged experience, a private transfer or hotel shuttle eliminates any uncertainty. This is the best choice for families, business travelers, or anyone with multiple bags.
Options
- Hotel shuttle: Many hotels near the bus terminal (e.g., Hop Inn Roi Et, Khong Chi Yoo Hotel) offer a paid or complimentary airport drop‑off. Ask at reception when you check in.
- Private car hire: Book through your hotel or a local transport company. Prices range from 250–400 THB (7–11 USD) for a sedan.
- Ride‑hailing (Grab Premium): Grab offers a "GrabCar Premium" option with larger vehicles for about 300–450 THB (9–13 USD).
Advantages
- Fixed price – no negotiation needed.
- Vehicle matches your group size (sedan, SUV, minivan).
- Driver waits at the terminal pick‑up point with a name board.
- Air‑conditioned comfort – a welcome relief in Roi Et's tropical climate.
When to book: At least 2–4 hours in advance for hotel shuttles; 15–30 minutes via Grab. For early morning flights (06:00–07:00), arrange the transfer the night before.
🚆 Train Option – Not Available on This Route
There is no train service between Roi Et Bus Terminal and Roi Et Airport. The nearest railway station – Roi Et Railway Station (สถานีรถไฟร้อยเอ็ด) – is located about 3 km northeast of the bus terminal on Thanon Phadung Phanit.
What the Train Station Offers
- Inter‑city routes: Services to Bangkok (Hua Lamphong), Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, and Nakhon Ratchasima.
- Frequency: 4–6 trains per day on the Nakhon Ratchasima–Ubon line.
- Distance to airport: From the train station to Roi Et Airport is about 7 km – you would still need a taxi or tuk‑tuk.
Why no train to the airport? Roi Et Airport is a small regional airport with no railway spur. The airport primarily serves domestic flights to Bangkok (DMK and BKK). Rail links are reserved for long‑distance passenger corridors.
If you arrive by train: Take a tuk‑tuk (80–120 THB) or taxi (100–150 THB) from Roi Et Railway Station directly to the airport. Combine train + taxi if you are coming from another province and need to connect to a flight.
Source: State Railway of Thailand – Roi Et Station Timetable
✈️ Flight Information at Roi Et Airport (ROI)
Roi Et Airport (ROI) is a domestic terminal handling flights exclusively to/from Bangkok. While you cannot fly from the bus terminal to the airport, this section helps you plan your air travel from Roi Et.
Current Airlines & Destinations (2025)
| Airline | Destination | Airport | Frequency | Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thai AirAsia (FD) | Bangkok | Don Mueang (DMK) | 2–3 daily | 1 h 05 min |
| Nok Air (DD) | Bangkok | Don Mueang (DMK) | 1–2 daily | 1 h 10 min |
Airport Facilities
- Terminal size: Small – one check‑in hall, one gate. Check‑in opens 2.5 hours before departure.
- Services: Basic café, souvenir shop, ATM, and free Wi‑Fi.
- Car park: Ample free parking if someone is dropping you off.
- Taxi stand: Metered taxis wait outside the arrivals hall – fares to the bus terminal ~150–200 THB.
Total door‑to‑door time: From the bus terminal to the departure gate, allow 1.5–2 hours (20 min transfer + 30 min check‑in + 30 min buffer). For a 10:00 flight, leave the bus terminal by 08:00–08:30.
📊 Cost & Time Comparison – All Options Side by Side
Use this table to quickly compare every transport mode from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport. Bold rows highlight the best choices for different needs.
| Mode | Time | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Luggage | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi (metered) | 10–20 min | 150–250 | 4–7 | ✅ Large bags | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Best overall |
| 🛺 Tuk‑tuk | 12–22 min | 100–200 | 3–6 | ⚠️ Limited | ⭐⭐⭐ | Short trips, no luggage |
| 🏍️ Motorcycle taxi | 8–15 min | 50–80 | 1.5–2.5 | ❌ Small bag only | ⭐⭐ | Fastest/cheapest |
| 🚐 Songthaew | 25–40 min | 50–100 | 1.5–3 | ⚠️ Limited | ⭐⭐ | Budget, light pack |
| 🚌 Local bus | 30–45 min | 40–60 | 1.2–1.7 | ✅ Medium bags | ⭐⭐ | Cheapest motorised |
| 🚗 Private transfer | 10–20 min | 250–450 | 7–13 | ✅✅ All sizes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families / business |
| 🚶 Walking | 1.5–2 h | 0 | 0 | ✅ Backpack only | ⭐ | Not recommended |
Key takeaway: Taxi offers the best balance of speed, comfort, and cost for most travelers. Motorcycle taxi wins on pure speed and price if you travel ultra‑light. Songthaew/bus are only for the budget‑conscious with time to spare.
💡 Traveler Tips & Real‑World Experience
1. Luggage Strategy – Use Takkyubin (Luggage Delivery)
If you are arriving at Roi Et Bus Terminal with heavy luggage and need to continue to another city after your flight, consider Takkyubin (luggage courier) services. While not available directly at the bus terminal, you can drop bags at a nearby 7‑Eleven or family mart that accepts luggage forwarding. This lets you travel hands‑free to the airport and pick up your bags at your next hotel.
2. Navigation & Language
- Thai names: Have the airport name in Thai ready: ท่าอากาศยานร้อยเอ็ด (or simply Sanam Bin Roi Et).
- Google Maps: Pin the airport as "Roi Et Airport (ROI)" – it is clearly marked. The bus terminal is listed as "Roi Et Bus Terminal" or "Sathani Rot Doi Roi Et".
- Local sim: Buy a Thai SIM (AIS, TrueMove) at the bus terminal convenience store to use ride‑hailing apps.
3. Time Management – Peak vs. Off‑Peak
- Peak traffic: 07:00–08:30 and 16:00–18:00. During these windows, add 5–10 minutes to taxi/songthaew travel time.
- Early mornings (05:00–06:00): Taxis are available but fewer. Book a Grab or hotel shuttle the night before.
- Public holidays: Roi Et sees increased traffic during Bun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival) in May and Loy Krathong in November. Plan extra time.
4. What to Avoid
- Unofficial taxis: Drivers who approach you inside the terminal often quote 300+ THB. Walk to the official taxi queue outside.
- Walking with luggage: The 600‑m walk from the songthaew drop‑off to the terminal has no covered footpath and heavy motorbike traffic – not fun with a suitcase.
- Waiting until the last minute: Roi Et Airport is small, but check‑in queues for AirAsia and Nok Air can be slow 30 minutes before departure.
5. Real Traveler Feedback
"I took a songthaew from the market near the bus station. It cost 60 THB but I had to walk 10 minutes in the heat to the terminal. Next time I'll just pay 150 THB for a taxi." – Mark, UK (visited Jan 2024)
"The Grab app worked perfectly. I booked a car from the bus terminal and the driver met me at the front gate. 220 THB fixed – no hassle." – Lin, Singapore (visited Nov 2024)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct bus from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
No, there is no direct public bus service connecting Roi Et Bus Terminal directly to Roi Et Airport. However, songthaews (shared pick‑up trucks) run along the main route and can drop you near the airport access road. For a guaranteed direct ride, take a taxi or tuk‑tuk.
2. How much does a taxi cost from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
A standard taxi costs between 150 and 250 THB (approximately 4–7 USD). Always insist on using the meter or agree on a fixed price before departure. Tuk‑tuks are slightly cheaper at 100–200 THB (3–6 USD).
3. How long does it take to get from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
The journey covers 8–10 km and takes 10–20 minutes by taxi or tuk‑tuk. By songthaew it may take 20–35 minutes depending on stops. Motorcycle taxis take about 8–15 minutes.
4. Is there a train from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
No, there is no railway line connecting Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport. The nearest train station is Roi Et Railway Station, located about 3 km from the bus terminal, but it serves inter‑city routes (e.g., to Bangkok, Khon Kaen or Ubon Ratchathani), not airport transfers.
5. What is the cheapest way to get from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
The cheapest motorised option is a motorcycle taxi at 50–80 THB (1.5–2.5 USD). A songthaew shared ride costs about 50–100 THB (1.5–3 USD). Walking is free but takes 1.5–2 hours and is not recommended due to heat and lack of footpaths.
6. Can I walk from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
Walking is possible in theory – the distance is 8–10 km – but strongly discouraged. The route has limited sidewalks, heavy traffic on Highway 2044, and intense tropical heat. Only consider walking if you have no other option and carry plenty of water.
7. Are there any shuttle services from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
Roi Et Airport does not operate a dedicated airport shuttle. Some hotels near the bus terminal offer paid or complimentary transfers – check with your accommodation. Ride‑hailing apps like Grab (available in Roi Et) provide on‑demand private shuttles.
8. What is the best time to travel from Roi Et Bus Terminal to Roi Et Airport?
For a flight departure, aim to leave the bus terminal 2.5–3 hours before your scheduled departure. Traffic in Roi Et is light outside peak hours (07:00–08:30 and 16:00–18:00). Early morning (06:00–08:00) is ideal for both low traffic and cooler temperatures.