Quick Answer
Best way: Take a taxi or private car from your Trat hotel to Trat Airport (TDX). Total time: 30–45 minutes. Total cost: 500–800 THB (≈ 15–25 USD). Key transfer point: No transfer needed — it's a direct door-to-door trip. For budget travelers, a songthaew (shared pickup truck) costs 100–200 THB (3–6 USD) but is less convenient. If your hotel offers a free shuttle, that is the best value.
🚕 Taxi & Private Car: The Most Convenient Option
For most travelers, a taxi or private car is the best way to get from Trat hotels to Trat Airport. It offers door-to-door service, fixed pricing (if agreed in advance), and a travel time of just 30–45 minutes.
Typical Fares
| Route | Estimated Fare (THB) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trat city center → TDX | 500–700 | 15–21 | 30–40 min |
| Trat hotels (outskirts) → TDX | 600–800 | 18–25 | 35–45 min |
| Khao Saming / Laem Sok area → TDX | 700–1,000 | 21–30 | 40–55 min |
Source: Local Trat taxi cooperatives and Bangkok Airways airport transfer info.
How to Book a Taxi
- Hotel front desk: Most hotels can call a reliable taxi for you. This is the safest option.
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab (available in Trat) offers fixed fares. Expect 550–750 THB.
- Street hailing: Less common in Trat; always negotiate the fare before boarding.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Door-to-door, no transfers, luggage-friendly.
- ✅ Available 24/7, even for early morning flights.
- ❌ More expensive than shared options.
- ❌ Traffic in Trat city can add 10–15 minutes during peak hours (7:00–8:30 AM & 4:30–6:30 PM).
Private Car / Airport Transfer Service
Several companies offer pre-booked private transfers from Trat hotels to TDX. Prices range from 600–900 THB (18–27 USD) for a standard sedan. These can be arranged via 12Go.asia or local travel agents. Private transfers are ideal for families or groups (3–4 passengers) where the per-person cost becomes comparable to a songthaew.
🏨 Hotel Shuttle: Best Value If Available
Some mid-range and upscale hotels in Trat offer complimentary or paid shuttle services to Trat Airport. This is often the most convenient and cost-effective option — if your hotel provides it.
Which Hotels Offer Shuttles?
- Avani+ Koh Kood Resort: Offers a premium transfer package (boat + car) to TDX for guests (from 1,500 THB / 45 USD).
- Boutique hotels in Trat city: Some small hotels arrange free shuttles for early morning flights — always ask at booking.
- Resorts outside Trat: Many beach resorts (e.g., in Koh Chang or Koh Kood) include airport transfer in their package, but this usually involves a taxi or van, not a dedicated shuttle bus.
Tip: Confirm shuttle availability at least 24 hours in advance. If your hotel doesn't offer one, they can usually arrange a taxi for you at a fair price.
| Hotel Type | Shuttle Cost (THB) | Shuttle Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / guesthouse | Free – 200 | 0–6 | Limited availability; ask at check-in |
| Mid-range hotel | 200–500 | 6–15 | Often shared with other guests |
| Resort (Koh Chang / Koh Kood) | 500–1,500 | 15–45 | May include boat + car combo |
🚐 Songthaew & Shared Van: The Budget Choice
A songthaew (literally "two rows" in Thai) is a converted pickup truck with benches in the back. It's the cheapest motorized transport in Trat, but it's also the least convenient for airport runs.
How It Works
- Songthaews operate on fixed routes within Trat city and to nearby towns. There is no dedicated songthaew route to Trat Airport.
- You can charter a songthaew to take you directly to the airport. Negotiate the price: expect 200–350 THB (6–10 USD) for a private charter.
- Shared songthaews (if you find one going near the airport) cost 100–200 THB (3–6 USD) per person, but you may need to walk the last 1–2 km.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Extremely cheap.
- ✅ Authentic local experience.
- ❌ No direct route; may require walking.
- ❌ Not suitable for large luggage or early morning departures (songthaews start around 6:00 AM).
- ❌ Language barrier can make negotiation tricky.
Verdict: Only recommended for backpackers with light luggage and flexible schedules. For most travelers, a taxi or hotel shuttle is worth the extra cost.
🚗 Car Rental: Maximum Flexibility
Renting a car in Trat gives you complete freedom to explore the region and then drop the car at Trat Airport before your flight. This is a great option if you're traveling as a family or planning to visit multiple beaches (Koh Chang, Koh Kood, etc.) before flying out.
Rental Companies at Trat Airport
- Hertz — Counter at arrivals. Compact cars from 1,200 THB/day (36 USD).
- Budget — Also at TDX. Similar rates.
- Local agencies — Sometimes cheaper (from 800 THB/day / 24 USD), but check insurance coverage carefully.
Source: Hertz Thailand and Budget Thailand.
Driving from Trat Hotels to Airport
- Route: From Trat city, take Highway 3157 south for about 30 km. The airport is well signposted.
- Time: 30–40 minutes in normal traffic.
- Parking: Short-term and long-term parking available at TDX (20 THB/day / 0.60 USD).
- Fuel: Gas stations are plentiful along Highway 3157.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Freedom to explore Trat on your own schedule.
- ❌ Need to return the car before your flight (allow extra 20 min for check-in).
- ❌ Driving in Trat is generally safe, but be cautious of motorbikes and livestock on rural roads.
✈️ Flights from Trat Airport (TDX) — What You Need to Know
Trat Airport (TDX) is a small domestic airport operated primarily by Bangkok Airways. It connects Trat to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. Understanding the flight schedule is crucial for planning your hotel-to-airport transfer.
Flight Schedule & Frequency
| Route | Airline | Daily Flights | Flight Time | Typical Fare (THB) | Typical Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TDX → BKK | Bangkok Airways | 3–4 | 45 min | 2,000–4,000 | 60–120 |
| BKK → TDX | Bangkok Airways | 3–4 | 45 min | 2,000–4,000 | 60–120 |
Source: Bangkok Airways official timetable. Schedules vary by season; always check in advance.
How Early to Arrive at TDX?
Trat Airport is small — check-in and security are quick. However, Bangkok Airways recommends arriving at least 1 hour before departure for domestic flights. If you have checked luggage or are traveling during Thai public holidays (Songkran, Loi Krathong, etc.), allow 1.5 hours.
Airport Facilities
- Small café with snacks and drinks.
- Free Wi-Fi (limited speed).
- ATM (only one, sometimes runs out of cash).
- Car rental counters (Hertz, Budget).
- No hotel inside the airport — plan your transfer accordingly.
Travel Time from Hotel to Gate: Total Picture
When planning your departure, consider the total door-to-gate time:
- Hotel to airport (taxi): 30–45 min
- Check-in & security: 15–25 min
- Buffer (recommended): 20–30 min
- Total recommend leaving hotel: 1 hour 15 min – 1 hour 45 min before flight.
🚌 Long-Distance Bus & Train Context (for Travelers Arriving in Trat)
While this guide focuses on getting from Trat hotels to Trat Airport, many visitors arrive in Trat by bus or train from Bangkok or other regions. Below is essential context for those planning a multimodal journey.
Bus from Bangkok to Trat
- Operator: Cherdchai Tour, Nakhonchai Air, and local buses depart from Bangkok's Ekkamai Bus Terminal (Eastern Bus Terminal).
- Time: 4–5 hours to Trat city.
- Fare: 200–400 THB (6–12 USD).
- Arrival point: Trat Bus Terminal (near the city center). From there, a taxi to the airport costs 500–700 THB (15–21 USD) and takes 30–40 minutes.
Source: Cherdchai Tour.
Train: Trat Has No Railway Station
Important: There is no train station in Trat province. The nearest major railway station is in Chanthaburi (about 70 km north of Trat) or Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station (300 km away). If you are considering train travel, you will need to combine it with a bus or taxi to reach Trat and then transfer to the airport. For most travelers, the bus is a more practical option.
Night Bus Option
Some operators run overnight buses from Bangkok to Trat (departing 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM). This is a budget-friendly way to arrive in Trat early morning, then take a taxi to the airport for a midday flight. The overnight bus costs 250–400 THB (7–12 USD) and arrives at Trat Bus Terminal around 3:00–5:00 AM.
| Mode | From → To | Time | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (day) | Bangkok → Trat | 4–5 h | 200–400 | 6–12 | Arrives Trat Bus Terminal |
| Night bus | Bangkok → Trat | 5–6 h | 250–400 | 7–12 | Arrives 3:00–5:00 AM |
| Train + taxi | Bangkok → Chanthaburi → Trat | 5–7 h | 500–1,200 | 15–36 | Train to Chanthaburi + taxi to Trat |
💰 Cost Comparison: All Ways from Trat Hotels to Trat Airport
Below is a side-by-side comparison of every option discussed, helping you choose based on budget, time, and convenience.
| Option | Time (min) | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Private Car | 30–45 | 500–800 | 15–25 | 0 | ★ Most travelers (comfort + speed) |
| Hotel Shuttle (free) | 35–50 | 0–200 | 0–6 | 0 | Guests of hotels offering complimentary shuttle |
| Hotel Shuttle (paid) | 35–50 | 200–500 | 6–15 | 0 | Travelers without taxi access |
| Songthaew (charter) | 35–50 | 200–350 | 6–10 | 0 | Backpackers / light luggage |
| Songthaew (shared) | 45–70 | 100–200 | 3–6 | 1+ (walking) | Budget travelers with flexible schedule |
| Car Rental (one-way drop) | 30–40 + rental process | 800–1,500/day | 24–45/day | 0 | Families / explorers combining road trip + flight |
| Grab / Ride-hailing | 30–45 | 550–750 | 17–23 | 0 | Tech-savvy travelers who prefer app booking |
★ Best overall value: Taxi or private car (500–800 THB / 15–25 USD) for the balance of cost, convenience, and reliability. If your hotel offers a free shuttle, that's unbeatable value.
★ Cheapest: Shared songthaew (100–200 THB / 3–6 USD), but with significant compromises on comfort and directness.
🧳 Traveler Tips & Insider Advice for a Smooth Departure
1. Book Your Taxi the Night Before
If you have an early morning flight (Bangkok Airways' first departure is usually around 8:30 AM), ask your hotel to book a taxi the evening before. Drivers are reliable but scarce at 6:00 AM. A pre-booked taxi ensures peace of mind.
2. Cash Is King in Trat
Many taxi drivers and songthaew operators do not accept credit cards. Withdraw enough cash in Trat city before heading to the airport. The ATM at TDX sometimes runs out of cash, especially on weekends.
3. Luggage: Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery) for Multi-Destination Trips
If you're traveling from Bangkok to Trat and then flying back to Bangkok (or onward), consider using Takkyubin (Yamato Transport) to send your luggage directly from your Bangkok hotel to Trat Airport. This service is available in Thailand through Yamato Transport (Thailand) and costs around 300–600 THB (9–18 USD) per suitcase. It's a game-changer if you want to travel light between cities. Official Yamato Transport Thailand site.
4. Traffic in Trat: Minimal but Watch for School Hours
Trat city has light traffic compared to Bangkok. However, between 7:00–8:00 AM and 4:00–5:00 PM, roads near schools and markets can slow down. Add 10–15 minutes to your travel time if departing during these windows.
5. Check Your Flight Terminal at BKK
If you're flying from Trat to Bangkok (BKK) and connecting internationally, note that Bangkok Airways arrives at Suvarnabhumi Airport's Concourse A (Domestic). International connections require a shuttle bus or walk to the main terminal. Allow at least 2–3 hours for the connection.
6. Songthaew: Know the Lingo
To charter a songthaew, say "Khao san rot songthaew pai sanamin bin Trat" (I want to hire a songthaew to Trat Airport). Negotiate the price before getting in. A fair charter rate is 250–350 THB (7–10 USD).
7. Peak Season Warning (November – February)
Trat and the surrounding islands (Koh Chang, Koh Kood) are busiest from November to February. Hotels fill up, and airport transfers can be in high demand. Book your taxi or shuttle at least 2 days in advance during this period. Fares may increase by 10–20%.
8. What If My Flight Is Delayed?
Trat Airport has limited waiting facilities. If your flight is delayed, you'll be in a small café area. Consider bringing a book or downloading entertainment. The airport does not have a lounge.
❓ FAQs: Getting from Trat Hotels to Trat Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Trat hotels to Trat Airport?
No, there is no direct public bus from Trat hotels or city center to Trat Airport (TDX). The most common ways to reach the airport are by taxi, hotel shuttle, or songthaew (shared pickup truck). You can also rent a car and drop it off at the airport.
2. How much does a taxi from Trat to Trat Airport cost?
A taxi from Trat city center or most hotels to Trat Airport typically costs 500–800 THB (≈ 15–25 USD). Prices may vary depending on your exact hotel location, time of day, and whether you book in advance. Always agree on the fare before starting the trip.
3. How long does it take to get from Trat city to Trat Airport?
The drive from Trat city center or most hotels to Trat Airport takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and your specific hotel location. The airport is located approximately 30 km south of Trat city.
4. Are there hotel shuttles to Trat Airport?
Some mid-range and upscale hotels in Trat offer shuttle services to Trat Airport. These may be complimentary or charged at 200–500 THB (6–15 USD). Always confirm with your hotel front desk at least 24 hours in advance to arrange the shuttle.
5. Can I rent a car at Trat Airport?
Yes, Trat Airport (TDX) has car rental counters from Hertz and Budget. However, the selection is limited, and it is recommended to book in advance. If you are driving from your hotel to the airport, you can drop the car off at the airport rental return.
6. What is the cheapest way to get from Trat to Trat Airport?
The cheapest way is by songthaew (shared pickup truck), which costs 100–200 THB (3–6 USD) per person. However, songthaews are less convenient, run on fixed routes, and may not pick you up directly from your hotel. A shared van or negotiating a discounted taxi can also be economical for solo travelers.
7. How early should I arrive at Trat Airport before my flight?
Trat Airport is small, but it is recommended to arrive at least 1 hour before domestic flights (Bangkok Airways to BKK). If you have checked luggage or are traveling during peak season, allow 1.5 hours. The airport has limited facilities, so plan accordingly.
8. Is there a train station near Trat Airport?
No, there is no train station in Trat or near Trat Airport. The nearest major train station is in Chanthaburi (about 70 km away) or Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station (about 300 km away). Travelers relying on rail must combine train with bus or taxi to reach Trat Airport.