Last Updated: March 2nd, 2020
BKK to DMK — In this short tutorial, you will learn how to transfer from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Don Muang Airport (DMK) or vice-versa for free using the complimentary shuttle bus.
This resource page will prove to be really handy for those of you planning on traveling within Thailand or other parts of SEAsia on a budget airline such as AirAsia, Nok Air or One-Two-Go.
In order to move between both airports you’ll need to know how to take advantage of the free shuttle bus that runs between the BKK and DMK airports or vice versa DMK to BKK.
How to Get From BKK to DMK for Free
There are two airports in Bangkok, the main airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) which services all major airlines and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) which now serves all of Asia’s budget airlines.
Prior to the change of operations back in October 2012, you were able to fly budget airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air and One-Two-Go to and from BKK airport but since the big move you now have to make your way over to Don Muang Airport to catch your next budget flight.
The problem with this change is that taxis and tuk-tuk rides between airports can be costly and often scammy. Fortunately, there’s an alternative way to get to and from BKK and DMK airports and best of all, it’s free!
Free Shuttle Transfer from BKK to DMK
Follow the instructions below and learn how you can easily make your way from BKK to DMK airport (or vice versa) for FREE!
1. If you’re flying into BKK, pass through Immigration, grab your bags and head for the exit. Once you exit immigration, you should be on Floor 2. Double check signage to make sure you’re on the second floor of BKK airport.
2. When you enter the arrivals hall (Floor 2), ignore all signs pointing you towards public transportation, buses, etc. Simply walk straight until you see Door 3 on your left hand side.
3. Exit the airport via Door 3 and turn right. You’ll see a little table with a few people standing around. Ask them for the free shuttle to Don Mueang Airport.
Below, you’ll find the latest shuttle updates from our readers.
UPDATE June 14th, 2019: One of our readers has informed us that they exited Gate 3, showed their boarding pass and were immediately allowed to board the shuttle bus. Total transfer time between BKK and DMK at 9:30PM was 48 minutes. (Credit: Punit Singh 6/14/2019)
UPDATE – December 3rd, 2019: Another reader just sent us an email letting us know that they used Gate 3 to exit the airport and they were able to board the shuttle bus immediately. They used the shuttle two times during their stay and their total transfer time between BKK and DMK and DMK back to BKK was 55 minutes. (Credit: Robert 12/3/2019)
UPDATE – January 16th, 2020: The shuttle bus from DMK to SUV can be found on ground floor Terminal 1 (because there are 2 terminals in DMK).
Rides:
1. 12/15/2019 from BKK (@16:30) to DMK took 50 min.
2. 12/31/2019 from DMK (@18:30) to BKK also took about 50 min.
(Credit: Annamarija 1/16/2020)
UPDATE – March 2nd, 2020: The desk where you need to show boarding pass for the next flight is inside the terminal (just next to exit 6). When they validate the boarding pass, they will stamp your hand. The bus driver verifies stamps when entering the bus (it stops just nearby – outside of exit 6).
(Credit: Ewa 3/2/2020)
Note: If you find that the information above has changed or you had a different experience, please feel free to leave a comment below or contact me with the latest information.
4. Before boarding the bus, the staff will ask you for your boarding pass and/or flight itinerary. I’m guessing the reason that you’re heading to DMK is because you have a flight with a budget airline departing from DMK, correct? If so, show them your boarding pass, flight itinerary, or e-ticket and you’ll be all set.
5. Once the free shuttle bus arrives, you’ll be on your way to DMK airport in no time. The official time from BKK to DMK airport or vice versa is around 50 minutes but can be up to 2 hours depending on time of day and traffic conditions. Be sure to plan accordingly.
Note: Your flight itinerary must be for the same day or the following day in order to be eligible to transfer between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport for free.
Are you looking for details on how to get from DMK to BKK? If so, I’ve got you covered below.
Free Shuttle from DMK to BKK Airport
For those of you who are arriving to Don Muang Airport and want to get a free shuttle transfer from DMK to Bangkok Airport, the process works the same exact way, just in the opposite direction.
UPDATE: The free shuttle from DMK airport to BKK airport can be found outside of the ground floor of Terminal 1.
Shuttle Bus Schedule
Below you’ll find the free shuttle bus schedule from DMK to BKK. This schedule is identical to the BKK to DMK schedule. The shuttle runs daily from 5am to Midnight.
Important Notes:
- The distance between Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK) is 29.5 miles (47.5 km).
- The free shuttle that runs to and from BKK and DMK has a transfer time of anywhere from 50 minutes to two hours depending on time of day and traffic.
- Taxi rates between BKK and DMK or vice versa should run approximately 350-450 baht. There will be some small toll fees in addition to the fare (approx 60-65 thb).
- There is a public bus (#554 & #555) that runs between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport. The fare is approx. 35 baht. If you have luggage, it’s best to use an alternative options.
- Buses that depart from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) and arrive at BKK and drop off at level 4, gate 5.
Grab Taxi (Alternative Method of Transport)
If you’re in a rush and need to get to DMK as soon as possible, it might be smart to order a Grab taxi.
Grab Taxi Estimate from BKK to DMK Airport: 306 THB – Approx. $10 USD
Help Us Keep This Page Updated
If you find any of the information on this page to be incorrect, please feel free to contact me with me your latest trip updates.
The reason why this continues to be the best resource for information regarding the free shuttle to and from BKK and DMK airports is because of you, the readers, who continually send updates with door changes, schedule updates, and more.
Hotels Near BKK and DMK
I’ve decided to add this new hotels near BKK and DMK section as a resource for those of you who have extended layovers and stopovers in Bangkok and are looking for a place to lay your head. I hope you find it useful.
Below you’ll find a widget where you can search for cheap hotels near BKK and DMK airport.
Love this :-) we will be flying mainly air Asia while on our rtw in southeast Asia! Last March they were still operating out of the main airport. Thanks for the money and time saver :-)
Hey Hannah, glad to hear you found this useful. I knew this would be super helpful to budget travelers as you now have no choice. You must travel from DMK airport if you’re going to fly any of Southeast Asia’s budget airlines. Be sure to check out my hotel recommendation as well in case you have to spend a night before flying out.
Hey Ryan, Very helpful info thanks. Are there any updates on this since it’s a couple of years ago please?
Hey Kay. All of the information should be accurate and up to date. I update it often.
Hi Ryan I am arriving at BKK at 0055 am and leave from DMK at 0700. Is DMK OK to hang out in overnight or should I stay @BKK til the 0500 am shuttle? Your thoughts?? Thanks kylie
BKK is probably a better airport to hang out in but the problem is you would arrive to DMK at around 6 and that’s probably not going to be enough time to check in for your flight. Tough call.
Just for other travelers’ information, the domestic terminal at DMK is newly refurbished and is the most comfortable airport terminal I’ve ever been in, out of dozens. A good place to overnight.
Thank you so much for your comment/contribution to this article.
HI,
I shall recah BKK by 01:00 AM and have next flight from DMK at 06:15 AM. do we have any free shuttle between BKK to DMK in night?
Hey Ryan
Can I use this shuttle if I have to catch bus from DMK not plane ?
Thank you
No. This free shuttle is only for passengers flying from the alternate airport.
if they’re still up to date, can you link to your hotel recommendations? they’re not coming up in the search. thanks!
Is this free shuttle bus still up to date?
KR
Yes, it is! ;-)
Ryan – you just saved me at least a 1000 bucks on this trip with your advice. It worked so well. Thank you for taking the time to put it on this site.
No problem, Dennie. Glad to hear it! Thanks for following up.
In case I don’t have a boarding pass, is it possible for me to buy a ticket his same DMK->BKK shuttle, direct non stop?
No. Unfortunately, you cannot. There are no tickets for sale. This is a free shuttle running between BKK and DMK airport or vice versa for passengers with valid boarding passes departing from either of the two airports.
As of 2018, some budget airlines operate from BKK. They include Jetstar and some Scoot [ex-Tiger A320 aircraft].
Most Scoot B787 [and Nok-Scoot B777] operate from DMK.
So remember Jetstar uses BKK, and Scoot uses both.
Thanks for the tip!
I have a question, if i arrive to DMK airport today but my next flight is around 22 hours after at shuvarnabhumi, then is it possible if i go out of DMK and stay at the hotel overnight and come back next afternoon to DMK and board the bus to shuvarnabhumi? It will be a great help. Thanks.
Yeah, this shouldn’t be an issue but you’ll have to make your way to Arrivals in order to board the shuttle. My advice would be to stop and ask the attendant when you land in DMK to be sure.
Sooo glad I came across your page. I am travelling in October and was worried about how I was going to transfer. I will let you know if there are any changes! Thank you thank you!
Thanks Debbie!
Hello sir on 24 Jan I reach bkk Suvarnabhumi Airport 21:40 then from immigration I am free around 23:30 can I get free stuttle after 12 o clock at night or any bus for chai mai bcoz I check there is no flight and bus at night but from dmk there is flight early morning so please guide me what to do.
No, you’ll need to find alternative transport such as Grab taxi.
Hi! I’m leaving soon to Bangkok, did it work well for you?
Hello, unfortunately it says that uber was not available here now in thailand. Sad :(
Yes, but GrabTaxi is available and just as good.
I am travelling from GUANGHZOU to DMK to CMB then to Dubai..will i need a visa while in Thailand as i connect from DMK to CMB..please brief me
If you leave the airport, yes. Even if it’s just to transfer from BKK to DMK or DMK to BKK.
Can i take my luggage along with me in this free bus?
Yes, of course.
Hi Ryan,
I have to travel from DMK to BKK with my family and few luggage pcs. Does the free shuttle bus have separate place to keep luggage ? Pls suggest best and faster way.
Yes, of course. It’s an airport transfer shuttle so there are plenty of spaces for luggage.
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for this information, we took this free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK last week and it worked perfectly and saved us a lot of money. It is still at exit 6 in DMK but now you have to get a ticket by showing your flight information and your passport (of all the passengers). They will than stamp your hand. The ticket stand is inside, right next to exit 6.
I’m so glad I found this. I would’ve never guessed BKK is different from DMK.
I’m going in May and this is sooo helpful.. thank u
Best of luck!
Does anybody know if I can spend a few days in Thailand then return to the bkk airport to get this shuttle to dmk airport for a flight to krabi?
Yes, of course. As long as you have a valid boarding pass for your flight from DMK.
Is there a last trip for free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK? What if I will arrived 9pm in DMK.. can we still avail tue free transfer?
Is it possible to take the free shuttle if youre eta in bkk airport is 10:00 and your flight to phuket is 14:45? Or is it better to take the taxi?
If there’s a shuttle available as soon as you land, I’d go for the shuttle. If not, just grab a taxi and be on your way.
HI, any idea how much a taxi would cost from DMK to BKK ? Im arriving at 11pm and unsure if i will make the last shuttle.
I believe it should be somewhere around 300 THB
Excellent write up, everything was as you described!! Thanks so much for providing this info.
Thanks Dan. Best of luck!
If it’s possible that i have a e ticket from DMK to HDY and i will take a taxi from my home to BKK and then take free shuttle bus from BKK to DMK?
Thanks ryan its help me a lot & your information is accurate.. i was landed yesterday 15/08/19. and i follow your article then i found free shuttle bus thanks man thanks a lot ?♥️❤️
Thank you for the feedback! Best of luck.
I followed the guide …it worked………, Just show the info about your next flight from DMK or bbk and they will put a stamp on your wrist, and you are free to hop on the shuttle
Perfect instructions. Walked out of gate 3. Desk on left. Showed boarding pass. Hand stamped SV straight onto bus
Thanks for the feedback, Richard! Appreciate it.
I had 3 days in bangkok. Unfortunately, I spent a lot of money. I really rookie. I wish I were acquainted before with the blog.
Sorry to hear!
I’d be landing BKK Airport at 12:55 AM. I’ve to catch flight from DMK airport, which is at 7:45.
Given the odd time I’ll be travelling, can you please suggest me the most economical and safe way of reaching from BKK airport to DMK airport?
Hey Ryan ,
I just chanced upon ur article and am looking forward to following ur advise .
Arriving suvarnabhumi airport on the 8th dec at 0825 am and have a connecting flight From DMK at 1310 .pm
Advisable to take the free shuttle ?
Hi Setu. Yes, that should be sufficient.
Thanks Ryan, your article really helped and saved time and money for me.
I landed today, 4th Jan 2020 on DMK airport and easily found shuttle to BKK at Gate 6. Your article is quite accurate and it took us 40-45 mints to reach BKK airport.
Excellent. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Hello Ryan,
Thank you so much for the information!
My flight will arrive BKK at 6:50 (friday). Do you think it’s possible to catch another flight which depart at 10.40 (friday) from DMK?
I don’t have any luggage only handbags, it should save some time, right?
Cheers!
Alexander
Hi Alexander,
It really depends on traffic. We arrived in Bangkok at 1:30PM and took the first shuttle to DMK and it took us 50 minutes. I’ve heard that it can take 1.5 to 2 hours in rush hour. The fact that you don’t have any checked baggage certainly helps. You’ll have to hope that there’s a shuttle waiting to leave as soon as you arrive in BKK though.
Hi,
Thanks for the tips! I’ll arrive BKK at around 11:30pm, and then I will need to take that free shuttle bus to DMK for my 6:00am flight the next morning. Is the shuttle bus open all the night? And, can I just sleep at DMK for an overnight? I know we can sleep at BKK, but I’m not sure about DMK.
Once again, thank you very much!
Debbie
Hi Debbie. That’s going to be tough because the shuttle buses only run from 5AM to Midnight. The chances of you catching the midnight bus to DMK is highly unlikely as you’ll have to deplane, go through immigration, get your baggage, etc. The other issue is that your flight is at 6AM the following morning and that means you would have to get the 5AM bus which wouldn’t give you enough time to check-in at DMK. You know?
Hi Ryan,
I basically have the same situation as Debbie’s, but I might be taking a 4 AM flight out of DMK. Would there be buses plying to DMK from BKK anytime from 12 midnight to 1 AM? Thank you very much for your kind help.
Hi Chiqui. Your situation is going to be tough. The shuttle only runs 5:00AM to Midnight. You can either take the last bus from BKK to DMK and hang out in the airport until you fly out OR take a tuk-tuk/taxi from BKK to DMK which will end up costing you. If you decide to take a taxi, make sure you take one from one of the official taxi stands in order to avoid getting ripped off. Good luck!
No way you can take a tuk tuk over that distance and tollway. Only taxis or buses are the options.
False. You can take a tuk-tuk.
How did you know about it! It’s good for our next trip to Asia :)
Glad to hear it!
Hey Ryan.
I must say I admire people like you that share the information. will be in BKK in sept.will be happy to read your hotel recomendation. can you send me the link?
thanks alot and best regards from tel aviv – Israel.
Asaf.
Hi Ryan,
I saw that the only person that u didn’t respond to was the one from Tel Aviv/Asaf. Making a point r we??
LOL, Ira. I’m actually just realizing that I missed this comment from Asaf thanks to your comment. No political reasons behind my lack of response, simply just a mistake on my end.
Hi, Asaf. I’m so sorry for such an incredibly late response. I’m not sure why I missed your original comment. I hope you found everything you needed in order to book your trip. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly.
Are there any airlines that fly to Phuket from BKK
Yes, of course. Try AirAsia.
Dear Ryan
Does this service still function. We are coming from Siem Reap and will land at 14:50. Our flight out leaves Bangkok main airport at 1:30, so we have enough time to get there. Are the free bus terminals well marked? Thanks so much for your assistance.
Bookmarking this for our trip to Thailand- thanks a ton :-)
No problem.
Thank you! Will be doing this when I get to Thailand :)
No problem at all Roisin! Enjoy.
Thank you very much for this information. I will be in Chiang Mai in Sept and I have booked the fly out of DMK. I land at BKK airport at 10:00 and the fly out of DMK is at 1:50 pm. I hope the time is sufficient to get there.
Hi Haiyan, will you be traveling to BKK from an international destination? I only ask because sometimes the lines at BKK immigration can be an hour or more. You need to figure that the shuttle bus will take another (approximate) hour and ten minutes from BKK to DMK, then you have to check in at DMK, etc. I’m not sure you’ll have enough time but I could be wrong.
The travel to BKK, then from BKK to DMK was a very smooth journey. Just as you descriped, the Shuttle was by the door and it was a quick and smooth ride to DMK. Immigration was not bad either. The way back was the same. It took only about one hour groom BBK to DMK. I had plenty time to catch the connection fly.
The trip to Thailand was a great pleasure. Thank you, Ryan
Thanks for the feedback Haiyan. It’s greatly appreciated.
Hi Haiyan, how long did the process take you from landing/arrival to getting to DMK? I ask because I am flying in @10:05 and wish to catch a flight @11:45 at DMK-Krabi so that I can make the last ferry on the 27th. What are your thoughts?
Thanks so much for the info!!
Any idea how often the shuttle runs?
No problem. The shuttle runs 5:00AM to 24:00, every 30 mins on the half hour and hour.
Nope, it is on the hour and 20 minutes past the hour for both from DMK and BKK. For the rest quite spot on info apart from the tuk tuk which I have despite +100 arrivals in BKK never seen at any floor.
Thanks for the feedback, Eric!
Hi Ryan,
I am flying to Bangkok on 29th oct directly going to Pattaya but by return is from dmk to Delhi on 1st . Can I use the shuttle service like Pattaya to suvarnabhumi and then DMK via this shuttle service or can you suggest a better way ?
Thank you sooo much! This is such a helpful tip!!
No problem. Glad to have helped.
Works!!! Took us 45 minutes. We left BKk at 13:00 (landed at 11:45), and made our 15:05 flight with time to spare!
It’s free, air con, and easy. Just exit the airport at door #3… You can’t miss them.
Perfect! Glad to hear it HD.
thanks for the info. A perhaps stupid question: if im traveling from Don Muang To suvarnbumi and intend to check in at Suvarnabumi how can i present my boarding pass to the shuttle bus folks (since i won’t obtain it until i check in at Suvarnabumi)? Or is a printed itinerary sufficient? thanks
No problem Al. No worries, a printed boarding pass is sufficient!
Do you know the frequency of the bus ride, is it every hour or so? also do they use freeways or just normal bkk city roads?
Every hour from 5:00 to Midnight.
Hi Ryan,
We will arrive in suvarnabhumi and stay in Bangkok for 2 days then will fly to Phuket via DMK airport. Can we still use the shuttle from the Airport going to DMK with just the ticket on hand?
I believe you should be able to show up to BKK and take the shuttle to DMK without any problems. You might also want to check into seeing if it’s more convenient to take a tuk-tuk/taxi from your hotel in BKK to DMK instead of going back to BKK and then hopping on the shuttle to DMK. It’s up to you.
Hi Ryan,
I’ll be flying from Chiang Rai to Bangkok (DMK) ..landing at 9:10pm.. and then have have a flight from (BKK) .. departing at 12:35am… Do you think I’ll be able to make it?
Also, I’ll have kids with me so I’d like to have everything planned out ahead of time. Can you give me the walking directions fro the bus from DMK to BKK?
You should have no problem making your flight if it’s at 12:35AM. Unfortunately, I’m not exactly sure where the DMK bus leaves from. It’s not that big of an airport so I’m sure you’ll have no issue finding it. Simply walk up to one of the booths and ask where the free shuttle to Suvarnabhumi Airport is.
Hello everyone! I´m arriving to DMK from Kuala Lumpur, and I´m planning to catch up with a friend travelling from Argentina to BKK. Have u guys ever take the bus without a ticket for BKK? I didn´t understand how to make the “faux” itinerary!
You cannot board the shuttle unless you have a valid flight itinerary.
Can one use the free shuttle if flying Nok Air? or must you fly and have a boarding pass for AirAsia? That is, does the shuttle work for ticketed passengers with any airline at Don Muang?
Thanks much.
Tom
Hey Tom. The shuttle is not just for AirAsia, it’s for anyone flying out of DMK. You just need to show your boarding pass for your flight out of DMK. Enjoy your trip!
EXCELLENT!!! Thanks much Ryan for your prompt and clear repy.
I like the lower fares and services of NOK Air, so prefer to fly them.
Now I will purchase my ticket… though we are expecting snow and sub-zero F. tempts
ahead of my fly morning on the 6th here in Denver. Hope flight connections will be made.
Appreciate your site!
Tom
Hi Ryan, probably U have had this question for a thousand times, but one more time: I’ll be at DMK at 14:50 and having the fly back to London from BKK at 19:55. Would it be enough time to collect baggage, move in between..? Is there any website with Ur hotels recommendation? I need to figure out the places In Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Phuket as well..
Best Regards, Dominik
Apologies if you have already commented on this but I am coming into Bangkok to fly straight out to Yangon. Do you think I need an entry visa if I am only getting the shuttle bus (UK res). Thanks
If you’re transiting between BKK and DMK, then yes, of course. You must pass through immigration when you land in order to transfer from one airport to another.
Will be utilising this on my trip next week, was wondering if anyone can confirm which doors the shuttle is running out of 3 or 6? And are these doors close to each other? Any info would be appreciated
All of the doors are within short walking distance of each other. To be safe, just head outside and walk along the curb until you find the bus. Should be relatively simple. Good luck!
What happens if you have an airline ticket other than AIrasia.FRom what I have heard,the free service is only for Airasia customers.Is this true?
Also,how do you make a “faux” airasia itinerary?
Thanks.
I believe you need to have a flight itinerary for an airline that operates out of the airport you’re wanting to go to. For example, if you’re going from BKK to DMK, you’re likely flying one of the budget airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, One-Two-Go. If you’re traveling from DMK to BKK, you’ll need a boarding pass for an airline that operates out of BKK. Hope this helps.
hi i am landing at DMK from hong kong and am required to catch an AIR INDIa flight to mumbai from BKK. does one require a thailand visa as you have to leave the DMK airport and enter the city and then go to BKK. I am travelling on 13 jan will be greafful for a quick reply.
Does the free shuttle run on Saturday and Sunday and on Bank holidays? Thanks
As far as I know, the shuttle operates the same schedule as the airports themselves, which is 365 days/year.
I will come at BKK at 8 AM and i got a flight from DMK at eleven.
Do you think i will be on time???
thanks
Will you be traveling to Bangkok from an outside country (aka your home country to Bangkok?) If so you will need to account for the time spent at immigration. Sometimes the lines can be very long depending on the day, time, etc. I’ve stood in line at immigration in Bangkok for an hour and a half in the past. Other times I’ve flew right through. You must also remember the bus can take anywhere from 45 mins to 2 hours depending on traffic, time of day, etc. I would estimate that morning traffic will be hectic.
Hi Ryan, i am travelling around SE Asia this June. My plane arrives at BKK at 800 am and my flight from DMK is at 1500. I plan on taking this shuttle bus. My question is, is there anywhere to sleep, like a quiet room, in DMK?
Hey TBone, check this link out: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/list.asp?region=6&country=Thailand&city=Bangkok&terminal=DMK
Hope this helps!
If I have the itinerary on my phone to show them, is that sufficient? I am currently in koh yao noi and don’t have access to print my boarding pass. Also my flight lands at 4:35p in bkk and leaves dmk at 7:35p. I’m praying that I have enough time. What is your opinion?
Yeah, the itinerary on your phone should be no problem. As far as your flight times, I would say you should be fine as you’re flying domestically so you don’t have to go through immmigration. There will likely be some serious traffic on your ride between BKK and DMK but you should have enough time.
Hi everyone i took the shuttle this morning. Thx a lot for this great help!
I took it on the door/exit 2.
There is the picture of the bus. It isn’t orange anymore.
http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=58690220140302075347.jpg
thx again for the tip !
Enjoy your future trip
Thanks so much Selim! I appreciate the info and the awesome photo update!
Thank you Ryan. I Was lucky to find your blog !
Thanks Ryan! This worked a treat!
Thanks for following up!
very cool! now if i could only find transportation from Siem Reap to BKK
This is exactly the information I was looking for. Thank you for such clear instructions and for posting the schedule so that I know how long the wait will be. We have quite a bit of luggage since we are nomads. Hopefully, we can get it on the free shuttle bus.
Thanks for the feedback Neil! You should have no issue catching the shuttle bus. Enjoy your trip!
I wish I had known that Bankok Air still flies out of BKK within Thailand and most prices are within $10 of Nok and AirAsia……..nice to have the free shuttle but not worth running around and the time to leave BKK if not needed!
Arrived at BKK at 0130. The shuttle doesn’t run between midnight to 5am. We took a cab. 489 baht + 140 baht in toll fees. Arrived at DMK in about 40 minutes. Out driver was falling asleep at the wheel, so we kept coughing loudly to keep him awake and tried to communicate with him. Flying to Phuket on airAsia at 0620. Posting on DMK free wifi now.
Thanks for the heads up Tommy! Sounds like you had quite the adventure. Glad you made it there safely.
Hi,
How safe is taking a cab midnight from DMK to BKK?
I’m reaching 0015 from Phuket and am flying out from BKK.
Shouldn’t be a problem at all. Best of luck.
Arriving in BKK at 9.15 from London on the 10th of June, would there be sufficient time to get from BKK to Don Mueang to catch a flight at 12.40?
Really depends on how long it takes you to get through immigration/baggage claim in BKK. Also, remember that the shuttle takes a minimum of 50 mins without traffic. You should be fine. Let us know how you make out.
Just printed off your instructions for getting from BKK to DMK–Heading to Thailand this weekend for two weeks, can’t wait!
Awesome, Brooke! Glad to hear it. Enjoy your trip!
Arriving on Sat from Brunei at BKK 12:45pm. Need to take flight from DMK, as there are several flights leaving for Phuket from DMK around 4-5 pm. what is the safest time I should allow on a weekend using the Free airport shuttle bus. Also considering buying flight ticket at DMK. Alternatively is it better to take train to Ratchpraprop Station and take taxi using toll rd. Any recom. greatly appreciated!!
Hey, Ike. You’ve got 4-5 hours. That will be plenty of time to take the shuttle to DMK. No worries at all. The best way to get from BKK to DMK is by the free shuttle, hands down.
Hi, Im flying with Air Asia. I’ll be landing in DMK but i need to go to BKK to pick up a friend. so i wont be catching a flight from BKK- Which means i wont have a boarding pass. I dont feel comfortable in making a fake pass so can i pay the shuttle bus to take me to BKK? I do have a flight from BKK but its 9 days after i arrive. Thank you.
Hi, Asma. No, if you do not have a valid boarding pass, you will not be allowed to board the bus. You cannot pay as it’s a free shuttle bus for passengers with flights leaving from BKK and DMK airport. In your situation, you will need to take a taxi.
Forgot to say arriving from Bali air asia at dmk need to get to bkk to get flight to USA, only have flight.itinerary. visa? Free. Bus? Thanks Rita
No problem. Hop on the free shuttle from DMK to BKK. You will need to show your boarding BKK to USA boarding pass/itinerary to board the free shuttle. No visa necessary. Enjoy.
Hi Ryan
Arriving at DMK at 4,30am and next flight is at 9.15 am from BKK.. ..is this time sufficient to catch my next flight ..do I need to pay for the visa to go from one airport to the other..please suggest ..what are the requirements to pass the immigration at DMK
You shouldn’t have any issues at that time of the morning. Yes, you will need a visa to enter Thailand. You can find more info here: https://www.thaiembassy.sg/visa-matters-/-consular/visa-on-arrival
Hay I am coming from India an I have to go to koh-Samui witch is the best way to go there..me and my wife…
Hey Amit. I would say that your best bet would be to fly into BKK, and then fly Bangkok Airways down to Koh Samui.
HAY THANKS BUDDY….NOW TELL ME I AM ARRIVING IN BKK AT 19:45 HRS. AND IS THAT OK TO BOOK A FLIGHT TO KOH SAMUI DEPART AT 21:00 HRS…WILL THAT TIME IS SUFFICIENT FOR ME TO TAKE THAT FLIGHT FOR SAMUI.??? OR IF YOU HAVE ANY BETTER OPTION FOR ME…I DONT WANT TO SPEND MY NIGHT IN BKK FOR NO USE…
No problem, Amit. I personally would not book the flight for 21:00 as you can’t be guranteed that you’ll arrive to DMK in time to check in, go through security and have enough time to board your flight.
The shuttle takes a minimum of 50 minutes without traffic. If you get off your plane in BKK at 19:45, it’s just not enough time. I wouldn’t risk it if I were you. Good luck!
Hi,
I am arriving at BKK at 410 am by spicejet from Kolkata. I have the next flight from DMK air asia at 7 am to Hanoi.
I have visa exemption. Would I be able to catch the flight and shuttle bus at 5 am?
How is the traffic at 5 am?
Thanks
Girish
Ryan,
FIrst of all I love your website and all of the information you have provided. Second I am envious of your on going excursion! >.,< eat some good food but i guess on a budget would be great! HELP
Hi,
How exact do the check the boarding pass? Can anybody link or send me a template please?
Thanks a lot!!!
I’m sorry, I’m not sure what you’re looking for here. Which template are you talking about?
hey ryan,
great site. we have flight that lands in dmk at 9:30 and our next flight leaves at 14:00. when is rush hour in thailand? we do have luggage. do you think that is enough time to reach bkk?
thanks!
Thanks, Stephen. No worries, you’ll have plenty of time to grab your luggage and make the transfer between airports. Good luck.
Hi Ryan,
We will arrive BKK at 11:15 pm and will spent the night near the airport.
How could we take the free shuttle before we get to DMK to check in for our boarding pass ?
I had my itinerary with our names on it from Air Asia with our booking number & barcode, is this sufficient for the shuttle ?
Thanks
Oyky
No problem. You don’t need your actual boarding pass. Just be sure to bring your printed email itinerary with you and you’ll be all set.
Lol! They should pay you for patiently answering everyone’s questions.
Haha! ;-)
Hey Ryan, thanks for the reply. I had a question about hotels/motels. We are staying only one night in bangkok before going to phuket. we land bangkok (bkk) early afternoon, need a place to stay over night thats convenient while being able to explore the city at night, then easy transport to DMK the next morning for our flight around lunch. Do you have any suggestions on where to stay? We don’t necessarily need a nice hotel for a one nighter.
For Phuket, we are staying for 4 days, 3 nights. Should we book a hotel all three nights in Phuket? or do most people travel around Phuket to other places??
Thank you so much!
Hey Stephen, I stayed here before my DMK flight: https://www.pausethemoment.com/phurahong-homestay-review/. It’s close to DMK but not close to all the action in downtown BKK though. It’s basic but does the trick!
I would say most people stick to Phuket. You wouldn’t have enough time to really explore much outside of that.
hi ryan
thanks for great informations
i will arrive at BKK at 1210 3rd dec& will flight from DMK 1530 to phuket, can i go by shuttle bus?, enough time? which bus& where can get it?
if not whats best alternative?
Yes, this should be enough time. Although, it depends on how long it takes you to get through immigration/baggage claim and how long it takes for the shuttle bus to take you between BKK and DMK airports. If I’m not mistaken you need to be checked in at least 45 mins before departure for Phuket which might be cutting it close. Best of luck.
Hello Ryan,
Thank you so much for the information!
My flight (Monday 19th of March) will arrive BKK at 7:10 . Do you think it’s possible to catch another flight which depart at 9:30 from DMK?
this is my first time in Thailand im coming with my wife to spend our Honeymoon :D
do you think i should take a taxi better than a free shuttle ??
Thank you ,,
No problem, Rami. I personally would not risk such a close flight. Whether you’re taking a taxi or the shuttle, the timing won’t make much of a difference as they’re both direct.
Ryan –
Thank you for the useful info. Our situation is we land at 9:10 PM at BKK. We will take the free shuttle bus to DMK. Our Air Asia flight to Hanoi is at 6:00am the next morning. So the question is can we simple stay at DMK airport for the 4 to 5 hours we will have once we get to DMK waiting in the terminal area (assume we get on the 11 pm or 12 am free bus) so arrive at midnight or 1 am at DMK.
Hi!
I’m wondering how the traffic is at 5:00 AM taking the first shuttle ride out from BKK? Since I’m thinking of taking the 6:45 AM flight out from DMK. And how long is the check in usually at DMK? Would it be too risky to take the 6:45 AM flight if I only have 1 hour and 45 mins from the time I leave BK– If the shuttle is even on time and leaves exactly 5:00.
Hi Ryan,
Thank you for being so helpful! Our trip to Thailand is coming to a close as we head over to Phuket and then back to Bankok and then back to the states. We fly in to DMK at 8pm and leave BKK at 1045pm. I don’t think we’ll have enough time for the shuttle but was curious if we’d have enough time for a taxi or uber? Thoughts?
Hi there,
I’ll be travelling to Thailand on the 15th and I found this site to be very helpful. Being a first time traveller to this country I wanted to find my way around in the most budget friendly way and finding out that there is a free shuttle from DMK to BKK is a great money saver. Thanks for sharing the info :)
Thanks for the comment. So glad to hear you found this helpful. Best of luck and safe travels!
Hi Ryan,
thanks a lot for the useful info. I will arrive at BKK at about 14:40 and take 17:45 flight out of DMK. So kindly advise me if I have enough time for shuttle bus and check-in at DMK ?
Hey Phuong. It completely depends on how long it takes you to pass immigration and collect your baggage. Long lines at immigration are common. You need to factor in the time it takes for the shuttle to go from point A to B as well as a minimum check-in time with your airline.
Hi Ryan,
I would be arriving with my family of 5 on 1st May Friday morning at 6:40am. We plan to take the air Asia flight at 9:55. Do you think it we would get to the the other airport in time if we get the 8am shuttle?
Also how bad would the traffic be on Friday morning at 8?
Lastly , would getting a taxi be quicker and by how much ?
Thanks for the help.
Hi Hisham, you must remember that immigration and baggage will take some time. I’m not sure you’ll have enough time to transfer to DMK and check in for your flight. I imagine traffic in the morning hours would be crazy. Taxi wouldn’t be that much quicker because everyone is going the same route. Maybe a little faster at best. Best of luck!
Hi,
Ineed to know that my friends are coming from changsha (chaina) to dmk air port.then there next flight is from bkk air port.Only i need to know that is there a visa required for Thailand.Because they are Pakistani Nationals.
Hi Umer. Yes, according to this link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Pakistani_citizens — visas are required for Pakistani citizens.
Hi Ryan, Thank you for all the information here. I am sorry you must have heard this heaps of time but I stress easy so I thought I would ask you too….My domestic flight with Air Asia will reach DMK at 01:10 pm Sunday and my international flight from BKK leaves at 7:20 pm Sunday ….Does it take long to clear immigration, check in and everything? Is this time sufficient as I am travelling with 2 kids? Thanks for your help!
Hi there. No worries. You will have plenty of time to transfer and check in for your international flight from BKK. Best of luck and safe travels!
Thank you Ryan! you are very kind :)
Anytime!
Hey Ryan,
My flight arrives at 08:00 am at Suvarnabhumi Airport , and my flight from Don Mueang has now been moved an hour closer to around 13:30. Does it take long with baggage and immigration, do you think its possible that we could make it in time?
You shouldn’t have any issues making it on time. Enjoy your trip!
Hi,
i’m flying to Bangkok in 2 weeks and I know i’m not gonna be able to get the shuttle ( or if i’m Lucky maybe ). I was just wondering if you still remember the name of one of the official taxi stand ? Don’t wanna get ripped off you know haha :)
thanks !
Hi Ana, the taxi stands can be found on Level 1 (Ground Level) near entrances 3, 4, 7 and 8. Hope this helps!
Hello Ryan,
Thank you so much for the information, your website is really awesome!
My flight (Wednesday 3th of June) will arrive BKK at 7:35 am . Do you think it’s possible to catch another flight which depart at 11.00 am from DMK?
this is my first time in Thailand im coming with my wife to spend our Honeymoon.
do you think i should take a taxi better than a free shuttle ??
Thank you ,,
Hi Gaber. Appreciate the feedback! As for transferring between airports, you shouldn’t have any issues catching your flight from DMK. I would personally take advantage of the free shuttle. Have a great trip!
Hi There Gaber
I have a similar trip planned. Did this work out?
Cheers,
Jeff
We r 2 family’s with young children between 11 and 16 years we r 8 persons is we will arrive to bangkhok at 12.3 pm we will travel to pukhet how much it will cost us to take a private vane or small bus to cash our air Asia fly to pukhet and how many time it will take us to arrive
Hi Everyone!
So I’m flying in to BKK at 12:50 on Thursday 17 December 2015. I have a flight from DMK to Phuket at 16:55 the same day. Do you think I’ve given myself enough time with immigration and customs and transfers etc? Your help would be much appreciated!
Yes, you should have plenty of time.
hi, i will be in thailand soon (on a tourist visa) for 10 days,then i’ll exit thailand from DMK airport(air asia) to cambodia for a week ; on the way back to my country i booked a flight back from cambodia (air asia) to DMK and on the same day from BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport back to my country; my question is : is my single entry thai Visa would allow me to exit DMK for the second time to go to BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport ? thanks in advance for any info .
we are flying in at BKK on 27th and renting a car to return at same airport on 30th June , can we take the shuttle to DMK on 30th we have flight to phuket from DMK on 3oth
Yes, absolutely.
hi,
i will be reaching BKK airport at 5.35 am, and then have a flight to catch from DMK at 10.55am.
Firstly, i wanted to know how much time it will take for visa processing?
Secondly, i would like to know the traffic conditions i will have to face if i have to go to DMK using the free shuttle.
Thanks in advance.
You should have plenty of time to obtain your visa on arrival and make your way to DMK airport. No worries. Enjoy your trip.
Thanks for the information on the free shuttle I will use it, and what are your recommendations for Phuket hotels please
Kind regards
John, London
It’s actually possible to go (Don Muang) DMK > BKK (Suvarnabhumi) or BKK > DMK via train.
DMK SRA 9bht (state rail authority of Thailand) > Hau Lamphong (Central) great old art nouveau station > via a rather long pedestrian tunnel to MRT 35bht (Metro) > Petchaburi interchange > SA 35bht (Suvarnabhumi express). Certainly a bit of mucking about but avoids the crazy traffic on Bangkoks roads and the Metro and Suvarnabhumi express are air conditioned. It’s also possible to pick up the evening train to Chiang mai from DMK , departs about 7.30pm. It’s just a pedestrian bridge from the airport over the toll road to the railway station.
Thanks for the tip, Stuart!
Hi Ryan,
I will be having my trip this august. My flight is from KUL-DMK and then BKK-DXB. Any advise on how to avail that free shuttle?
Yeah, you can catch the shuttle the same way as mentioned in this post. The schedules are the same from both airports.
Hi,
I am landing at the Suvarnabhumi Airport at 5.35 hrs and have a connecting flight deom Don Muang airport at 8.55 hrs. is it very tight timing gap to take the shuttle or should i opt for other commuting options. please advise. thanks for the post.
You should have plenty of time to get to DMK as long as the immigration lines are not too long at BKK. Best of luck.
Arriving at BKK on an 11:10 pm flight. Leaving airport for hotel and then flying out of Don Muang 8:00 pm (next day). can we return to BKK and take the free shuttle to Don Muang or are we not allowed to re-enter airport on our single entry visa? Just take a taxi from our hotel near BKK to Don Muang? -what would be easier??
Thank you for suggestions!
Terry
Yes, you can definitely still take advantage of the shuttle. Just get dropped off at the airport and make your way to the arrivals terminal. From there you can hop on the shuttle without issue.
Did you have to show any proof when you went from DMK to BBk By free shuttle? Was the shuttle easy to find?
Yes Natalie. You must show your boarding pass/printed email itinerary or mobile itinerary to prove you’re flying out of DMK/BKK.
Hi,
My boyfriend and I will be landing in DMK at 7PM and are catching a flight out at 9AM the next morning (a sunday). Do you know of any budget guesthouses or nice places to stay close by, or with a free airport shuttle around 8-15 $ ?
Thank you so much
Regards
Hi Gabriella – Check out this place – https://www.pausethemoment.com/phurahong-homestay-review/
Hi Ryan
Your blog has been very much useful for people visiting Thailand. I am planning to visit Thailand by the end of September with a few friends. We ll be having around 5-6 days to spend over there and we have planned to spend these days in Bangkok and Phuket. its our first time that we are going to visit Thailand so that’s why m asking you if you can recommend some good places over there, plus good but cheaper hotels to stay.
Thank you so much
Regards
Hi Xaib. Thanks for the comment. Unfortunately, I’m not the best person to ask when it comes to recommendations for accommodations/things to do. It’s not that I don’t know the destinations, I do. It’s more of the fact that I’m not an expert. Your best bet would be to take a look at http://wikitravel.org/ to search for Bangkok and Phuket recommendations.
Me and my husband planing to fly into DMK but really want to be in BKK area. Can we take the shuttle bus for free? If so how? If the people asking for all that proof and of course the other way around to head back( we will have a round trip ticket so the proof will work out) anything to do in DMK? I would rather fly into DMK the flight is like 40usd round trip.
I believe that in order to take advantage of the free shuttle your return flight must be within 24 hours. If your flight from BKK is the following day after you land in DMK, you should be all set.
Hi Ryan, your post really helps to save a lot of bucks :) I shall arrive in BKK on 22May2019 and depart 26May2019 at DMK. Can I still take a free shuttle bus ride from BKK heads to DMK?
hi! your blog is veryyyyy helpful. Thankyou.
Thanks Archie.
hi, is the bus still running from same place at DMK? can i use it with any ticket outb from Bkk or just thai airlines?
Of course. Yes, any flight.
hi ryan, this blog is awesome.
i’m flying into BKK at 11:40 and am flying out from DMK at 15:45. would I have enough time to take the shuttle and not a taxi?
thanks
Thanks Katie! Yes, you should have enough time to take the shuttle. Best of luck.
Hi Ryan,
We have a 16 hour flight to BKK with a 4 year old and a baby (I know, what were we thinking?) We get to BKK at 8:00 am and can’t decide whether to just go for it and take a flight straight down to Phuket after arriving, or if the arrival/bag pick-up/immigration at BKK will have us just wishing for a Bangkok hotel to rest in for 24 hours before continuing onward. Any advice for us?
Hi Debbie. That’s going to be a long way to fly with two small kids. That being said the flight time from BKK to Phuket is short so maybe you’ll just want to suck it up and get to where you need to be. At least then once you’ve made the big trek, you’ll finally be able to relax and enjoy your vacation.
This is another option: Although this is not free, it is fast and air conditioned as well. Take the Sky Train to the end – the Phaya Thai station (about 45 baht), take the BTS from Phaya Thai (you don’t have to leave the station area, just walk down the ramp and over to BTS) to Mo Chit.(about 42 baht) Get off at Mo Chit and take the A-1 bus (30 baht) which goes straight to the Don Muang Airport. From Phaya Thai I can get to the airport in 30 minutes. From the airport to Phaya Thai it is about 30 minutes, maybe less.
Hey Ryan
I will arrive at DMK on 8:15pm and my girlfriend is arriving at BKK at 11:15pm i really need to be there before here its a matter of life and death lol, do you think public bus or taxi will assure me to arrive there within the time?
Cheers!
You should be able to take the free shuttle from DMK to BKK with time to spare. If you’re really in a rush then sure, a taxi or bus would work as well (at a cost)
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for this information, we took this free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK last week and it worked perfectly and saved us a lot of money. It is still at exit 6 in DMK but now you have to get a ticket by showing your flight information and your passport (of all the passengers). They will than stamp your hand. The ticket stand is inside, right next to exit 6.
Hi Ryan,
I am flying to Phuket, Thailand in december (2nd week) from Mumbai (India).
To save some money,
I am thinking to taking a flight to bangkok which arrives at 4.10 am in BKK international airport.
Then move to DMK airport by free shuttle service.
From DMK airport i am thinking of taking air asia economy flight to Phuket (HKT).
My queries are –
1. Can i move to DMK from BKK airport without taking on arrival visa and then take it eventually at phuket airport?
2. If the answer to first question is YES, then how much gap should i keep between the two flights?
If i am landing in BKK at 4.10 am then what should ideally be the take off time of my flight at DMK airport?
No. Your visa on arrival is given to you at your point of arrival (BKK)
Hey, Ryan, you are a clearly a super-star on this topic!
We arrive BKK (ex LGW) @ 14:50 on 16.12 and need to get an internal flight to Udon Thani, returning from there to catch an 11:30 flight (to LHR) ex BKK on 24.12.
Please could you let us have a stab at how long we should allow for our connections in each direction, so that our internals are not too tight? We will have hold luggage on all flights.
We would be most grateful.
Andrew Burr
3-4 hours should be plenty. That being said, immigration lines and baggage check times can be unpredictable.
Hi Rayan,
I’ve checked the comments and I know that you have answered this kind of question a 1000 time… I’m here to make it 1001! :p
So my flight lands in BKK at 14h25, on Dec, 22nd; And I’m planning to catch another flight to phuket from DMK at 17h50. I won’t need visa on arrival (have it from Tunisia before taking off) and will have usual luggage. Do you think that I will have enough time to take the free shuttle, and still be on time for the registration and everything in DMK???
Biiiiiiiiig thanks in advance!! ;)
Hi Ryan,
Your directions to transfer from Suvarnabhumi airport to Don Muaeng by the free shuttle were spot on. Had absolutely no problems. A big thank you for your directions.
Excellent. Glad to hear it! Thanks for stopping by and reconfirming that our information is still correct.
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for this xclnt post.
my arrival time at DMK at 11:00pm from seim Reap .
How long it will be clearing immigration and visa on arrival at DMK?
Is there any bus service from DMK to Mo Chit area after midnight if the immigration takes more than a hour??
Or we have to take a cab?
Thanks in advance
Dear Ryan – many thanks for the information.
I need to travel from DMK to BKK but I will not have boarding pass upfront (I can only get my boarding pass when I check in at BKK) can I still take the shuttle bus and pay a fare ? please advise
You don’t necessarily need your boarding pass. An email itinerary for your flight should be sufficient.
Hi Ryan,
I have a flight landing in BKK at 10:05 from Taipei, and I’m trying to catch the ferry to Phi Phi, but it leaves at 15:00. The only flight that would get me there in time is DMK-KBV but it leaves at 11:45, what are you thoughts on making it, considering its not traffic hour and it will be a Wednesday?
Thanks,
Sounds like that might be a little too tight of a window. You just never know how long deplaning and immigration will take.
Hi Ryan,
I’ll arrive in DMK airport on this early March, just want to make sure if the free shuttle bus from DMK to BKK city is still running?Is it still at Level 4, Gate 5 ?
Btw, do you have any idea where’s it exactly drop people off in BKK city?
Many thanks!
The shuttle only runs between DMK and BKK airport. It does not drop you off in the city.
Hi Ryan,
I will be reaching at Bangkok(BKK) @12.45 AM on 10th March . I have Flight to Krabi from DMK @8.20 AM same day. So, if i plan to take the 5 AM shuttle, i can catch the 8.20 AM flight from DMK, right?
Yes, should be no problem.
Hi, i need some help here. I’ll be flying to Bangkok on 19th March at the Suvarnabhumi Airport and have a connecting flight to Bali from dmk airport. It will be a transit, do i still need to go through immigration? I am from Pakistan and i need a visa to enter Thailand, i have a single visit visa ..i don’t want to use that for transit. Please let me know what is the best option. Thanks!
Of course. Everyone must pass through immigration as soon as you enter the kingdom of Thailand. Your visa will begin as soon as you land in Thailand.
do i need a visa of thailand to go to DMK from BKK??
If you haven’t already secured a visa prior to your arrival, you will receive a 30 day visa (or visa exemption) as soon as you enter Thailand (BKK or DMK). The answer to your question is yes, you do need to pass through immigration in order to transfer between airports.
merci pour tous ces renseignements
j arrive à bkk le 28/02 à 11h55 de france et je me rend à koh samui.
quels soulagements grâce à tous tes renseignements.je pars plus rassurée
un grand merci
Excellent Post! This is super informative. We are flying into BKK at 11:10pm and hopefully can make it through immigration to catch the midnight bus to DMK. Otherwise, we’ll have to catch a cab. Keep up the great work!
Useful info. and easy steps to follow. I also like the feature that allows readers to give updates.
Great job!
Hi Ryan. Awesome blog. Myself and my boyfriend will be coming into BKK at 1135AM from Canada. We then will have a flight departing from DMK at 410PM. Do you think we would have enough time to make our flight by taking the free shuttle?
Thank you in advance.
Hi Kayla. Yes, you should have no problem getting between BKK and DMK in that time frame as long as the immigration lines aren’t too long.
Hi Ryan,
What if i dont have a flight/boarding pass to support? If Im touching down at BKK and has to travel to DMK because my tour guide will pick me up from there, am i still entitled to enjoy the free shuttle service?
Hi Chocchlo. If you do not have a boarding pass they will not let you on the bus. The bus is not free transportation from BKK to DMK. It’s for those who are connecting/laying over and have a flight out of DMK. That being said, you could create a mock/fake itinerary but I can’t say that it’s something I promote/recommend.
Hi Ryan. Thanks for informative blog. This came up while i was looking for options to travel from BKK to DMK for upcoming trip. I will arrive on BKK at 00:45 and my Air Asia flight from DMK is at 7:10. Reading this, i realized, i will have to catch a Taxi to DMK. Can you please guide me about which is the best nad the safest Taxi service in the middle of the night in Bangkok. Thanks
Hey Bhavesh. I highly recommend Uber. It’s fast, easy, safe and affordable.
Is there a time frame in which your boarding pass has to be in to take the shuttle. Our air Asia flight would get in at DMK at 1450 and we have a flight from BKK the next day at 0640. Was wondering if we could still take the shuttle over to BKK or is there too much time between the 2 flights. I booked it this way in case of delays. I didn’t want to miss the flight home.
Hi Marlene. I don’t think you’ll have a problem boarding the free shuttle as long as you have a valid boarding pass for the following day. Best of luck.
Hi, my friends and I will fly to DMK on 9:35am and we will go to take shuttle bus directly to BKK once we pass through immigration. Would it be too rush if we book tickets on 12:15pm from BKK to Samui?
Btw, it’s Wednesday.
Hi Naomi. I would think that might be cutting it a little close. You should always give yourself approximately one hour from when you land to get through immigration and collect your luggage (approx. 10:35AM). Then you’ll need to figure out which bus (Trip#20 or 21) 10:36 or 10:48 from DMK to BKK. The transfer usually takes about 50 minutes but can depend on traffic and the time of day. If you figure another hour (11:35-45), you’ll arrive at BKK with maybe 30 minutes to spare. It just doesn’t seem doable in my opinion. Best of luck with your trip!
Hi, i took the Shuttle Bus today to go Form DMK to BKK, thank you for your hint! By the way the Bus i waiting now Outsider Door #6, but that should not be a Problem if you search for it Outsider Door #5!
Cheers!
Thanks for the update Dominik!
Hi Ryan,
Need to know if a visa would be required for transfer between DMK & BKK?
Well you cannot exit the airport without passing through immigration so the answer is yes you do need a visa (or visa exemption).
Very useful information!! Just have to show the booking details at the counter outside gate 6 and it is a AC bus!!
Thanks for the update Shagun!
Hi! Thks for the great information, i just got one problem. Im arriving at Don Muaeng, and my girlfiend is arriving at Suvarnabhumi from Chile. I need to pick her up to that airport, you think i can use this free altrrnative?? Thanks a lot again!
No. The free airport shuttle between DMK and BKK or vice versa is not meant to be used as free transportation for those wanting to pick someone up from the airport. It’s solely for those who have a valid ticket to fly within the stated time.
Hi Ryan,
I’d be reaching BKK Airport at 12:55 AM. I’ve to catch next flight from DMK airport at 7:45 departure time. Given the odd time I’ll have to travel, please suggest me the most economical and safe way to travel.
Dear Friends,
I have 25 kg baggage. Is it allowed in shuttle bus?
I will be reaching at 1am to BKK and planning to go DMK.
Is it allowed to sit on BKK airport from 1am to 5am
I can probably guess the answer but what is the chance of the bus driver dropping me off at a cheap hotel near BKK airport if I’m getting the free bus from DMK? And could anyone recommend a nice, cheap,basic hotel near BKK airport just to spend the one night in? Cheers
do you think it would be possible to catch a 11:25am flight from DMK when i arrive to BKK at 7:15am. We have children so usually we get to the express way in Immigration
Yeah, you should be okay.
Hey Ryan
Love the information on ur blog.Totally cool.
I have been always travelling to BKK and never flown in or out of DMK. But want to try Air Asia flights and save money. Would I be able to use this option to go to Suvarnabhumi airport so that I could take the airport Rail link to the city and do the same thing while I’m flying out of DMK…?
Thanks for the feedback. You can utilize the free shuttle between BKK and DMK or vice versa as long as you have a valid boarding pass/flight itinerary.
Hi, Ryan. This is extremely helpful information. In your opinion, if I have a flight that lands at BKK at 9:45 am, will there be enough time to take the shuttle to DMK and catch a flight that leaves at 1:45 pm? Or should I book a flight that leaves DMK a little later, such as around 3:45 pm?
Thanks!
Hi Serena. Thanks for the feedback. I believe you should have enough time. Just be sure to factor in 2 hours of time. 1 hour to get through immigration and baggage claim and then another hour for the shuttle to DMK. That being said if you wanted to really play it safe the 3:45 would be a better choice.
Hi Ryan,
I will be arriving at Don Muang Airport. I will be staying at one of the hotels in Phaya Thai area. After I arrive DMK, I’d like to take a shuttle bus that goes to BKK so I can take a train (Airport Rail Link) to go to Ratchaprarop.. Will this work for me? Kindly let me know.
Hi John. Do you have a flight out of BKK within 24-48 hours of landing in DMK? If so, then yes. If you do not have a flight and you’re just trying to find a free way to get from DMK to BKK then this will not work for you.
Hi Ryan,
My wife and I will be arriving DMK at 0800 and planning to take the “free” shuttle bus service to BKK and then onwards to the city with the Airport Rail Link. Is it possible? On the other hand, we intend to take the Airport Rail Link from Phaya Thai Station to BKK and onwards to DMK by taking the free shuttle bus service. My flight from DMK departs at 1730 …what time would you recommend us to leave Bangkok city for the airport?
The only way this will work is if you have proof of a flight itinerary leaving either airport BKK or DMK within the next 24-48 hours.
Hi Ryan:
I am planning to arrive DMK from Siem Reap around 22:45 in December 26th 2016 and then take the free shuttle bus to BKK to catch the flight to Hong Kong at 03:35. Do you think, I have enough time for the transit?
Thanks,
Hey Eddie. Yeah, I think you should be able to catch the 11:30 or midnight shuttle from DMK to BKK. You shouldn’t have any issues with traffic at that time of night.
Thanks Ryan. Love the information on your blog, very useful with details.
I am still at planning stage, in your opinion, which is the most economical way to travel from Siem Reap to Hong Kong and then catch the 11.15 am flight to USA on the same morning flying in from BKK or DMK.
How reliable is Air Asia?
Thanks again,
Eddie
Thanks Eddie. Appreciate the feedback.
For all travel related logistics you should find this article to be pretty helpful: https://www.pausethemoment.com/how-to-plan-travel-logistics/
In my experience AirAsia is as reliable as any other airline. I’ve never had a bad flight with them.
Good luck on your trip.
Hi Ryan
I am planning to arrive at BKK at 8pm and will take another flight from DMK the next morning. So I will have around 12 hours layover. The question is that can I stay inside BKK transit area? Then go outside after in the morning. Or I have to go through immigration counter immediately after landing to go to DMK by shuttle bus?
Thank you in advance
You will go through immigration immediately and no you will not be able to stay in the transit area for two reasons. Firstly, you’re not transiting to another flight from BKK. You’re next flight is from DMK. Secondly even if you could stay in the transit area, your luggage would need to be picked up after you pass through immigration. As for staying in the airport after you pass through immigration and baggage claim, read this for more info: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/asia/bangkok.htm
Best of luck!
Thank you for all the helpful details! We are flying in from Phuket into DMK, but then starting out return to the US out of BKK. Your info on the free shuttle is much appreciated as we just spent 1,800 baht on hotel transfers in Phuket!
No problem at all. Glad to hear I’ve helped you save some baht. ;-)
Hi Ryan
I’m travelling to Bangkok next month and from there I’ll get another flight to phuket. 3 questions:
1. If I enter Thailand from BKK and leave from DMK. Would it cause any trouble of entry – exit ports. Is It mandatory to exit Thailand from same entry port?
2. Visa on Arrival facilities are available on which airport – BKK or DMK ? Accordingly I have to get the flights for that airport only as I dont have prior visa.
3. I’m planning to book separate flights from Chennai to bangkok and then Bangkok to Phuket. Would I be allowed to come out of Bangkok airport (DMK or BKK) and then enter the airport again to catch another flight to phuket.
4. How much gap should I provide between two flights. How much time would it take for visa processing , how long would be the queue in general ?
Hey Kabir. Here are the answers to your questions:
1. No. It does not matter where you enter/exit.
2. All international airports would be required to have immigration officers on duty — both BKK and DMK airports offer visa on arrival services.
3. Yes, of course. Once you land and pass through immigration at either BKK or DMK, you’ll have your visa on arrival in hand and you’ll be in transit to the other airport. No issues there.
4. A few hours to be safe because traffic and other road related issues can really make a difference when it comes to transferring between both airports. I cannot tell you how long the visa on arrival process would take as I have no idea how busy the airport will be. That being said, I can’t see it being more than an hour or so at the worst.
Hope this helps!
Thanks Ryan !! All this information is really helpful.
No problem. Happy to help!
Hi Ryan, thanks for this article, it’s just what i was hoping to find.
I’m planning to travel from Pattaya to Phnom Penh and was gonna book flight FD 606 DMK to PNH around the end of September.
My idea is to get the airport 389 bus from Pattaya to BKK (120bt ) then use the bkk to dmk shuttle bus.
The flight leaves dmk at 15:00, and i’ll check in online beforehand.
I’d be interested to know your thoughts on what time you think i should catch the airport 389 service from Patts’ in order to arrive at dmk around 13:00 Thanks in advance…
Hi John — The bus from Pattaya to BKK takes approximately 2 hours and then you need to factor in that the free shuttle between BKK and DMK can take anywhere from 50 minutes to 2 hours depending on time of day and traffic.
The 9AM bus from Pattaya to BKK would have you at BKK by 11AM. Hop on the next free shuttle from BKK (ex. 11:30AM) and you should be in DMK around 1PM. This would be plenty of time to hop on your flight to Phnom Penh.
If you wanted to really push it you could take the 10AM bus from Pattaya to BKK but I’m not sure I would risk it. That’s on you!
You can find the Pattaya to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Schedule here: http://airportpattayabus.com/pattaya-suvarnabhumi-airport-bus-schedule-timetable
Best of luck and enjoy your trip!
Hi, if I want to go to BKK to meet my friend there as we are coming from different countries and airlines from my country only fly to DMK and hers flies to BKK. How much would the shuttle cost? As I read that it is only free if you are transferring to catch another flight. Would appreciate your quick reply! Thanks again!
Hi Adylla. The free shuttle that runs between BKK and DMK and vice versa is only available to those who have connecting flights, not for public transport. Other options when transferring from BKK to DMK or the other way around is to either take advantage of the first ride free promo from Uber by downloading the Uber app and entering my promo code: UBERPTM to get 200 baht off your first ride or taking a taxi.
Best of luck!
These directions were so helpful during our trip last week- Thank you SO much!
Thanks for the feedback Kim. Glad to hear that you were able to use the directions to get where you needed to go. Out of curiousity, how long did the transfer between BKK and DMK airport take? I know it varies depending on traffic and time of day. Would love to hear your experience.
Hi Ryan, It will be my first time in Thailand and my question is, if I am flying out of DMK to Phuket and not doing a transfer or anything like that; Is it smarter/better to take a uber/car or go to BKK just to transfer for free to DMK and avoid the taxis etc.
Never mind I just read the answer to my question in the comments thanks!
Ryan, If I am getting in early in the morning, like at 1:30 or 2 AM, would you recommend that I just forget about finding a place to stay at near BKK, and just head straight to the shuttle for DMK? If I get in from the states early in the morning, and have a morning flight from DMK to Ranong,I think it would be better if I just got there in the early morning, and then took the shuttle to make my 5:45 AM flight in DMK.
Hey Colin. Well, the shuttle only runs between 5:00AM and Midnight so taking the shuttle at 1:30-2AM won’t be an option. Even if you wait it out until the morning, you still won’t be able to take advantage of the shuttle as you wouldn’t have enough time to check-in, etc. I would suggest grabbing an Uber and making your way to DMK for your early morning flight.
Hi Ryan,
I will arrived in 11:50PM in BKK, and will fly out to Myanmar from DMK at 7:15AM. Since the free shuttle starts at 5AM it is not wise to risk my flight for this. What I would like to know is about the #555 bus. Does it run 24 hrs? If not, what’s their schedule,been checking online but it gets confusing cause I’ve seeing different timetable. Any help will be greatly appreciated!
Hi Joie. As far as I know, it does not run 24 hours. I found some information on this site: http://www.transitbangkok.com/to_Bangkok_airport.html but it’s not too clear. That site might offer you some more information that could end up being useful.
Hello Rishi,
My Air India flight lands at 7.45 AM at BKK then i have 11.25 AM NOK Air flight from DMK,
we have 3 hours and 40 min approx between two flight.
Is that time enough for immigration & traveling?
We are 7 adults and 2 child – family.
Waiting for your valuable reply.
Hi Kiran. Thanks for the comment.
Your stop over time shouldn’t be an issue. The only thing I’ll say is that you have a lot of people in your group so be sure to keep everyone together and the transfer between BKK and DMK should be no problem.
Best of luck with your trip in Thailand!
Hey Ryan thanks for the info mate! With a friend of mine we are going to Thailand. So after Phuket we have a flight to China from BKK and I was kinda worried about how to get there but I found your blog and OMG you are our saviour :)
Thanks a lot and if you come to Lanzarote drop us a line ;)
Thanks Bobby. Best of luck and enjoy your trip!
My friends and I will be landing in BKK at 12:30pm and have a flight at 4:25pm from DMK to the south and was wondering if we will have time to transfer and get to our next flight by taking this free shuttle. Based off of rush hour times I think we will be fine. What do you think?
At that time of day you should have enough time. That being said if you are a worrier and want to be sure you get there on time I would take an Uber and you should have no issue at all.
Thanka!
Hi Ryan,
Thank you for this article. The information is really useful for me. I am arriving on BKK at 13:20 and my flight from DMK is at 16:40. Do you think that the shuttle would be an option for me to get there or it would be better to get UBER?
Thanks,
Tanya
Hi Tanya. You might want to take an Uber just to be sure!
Thank you, Ryan!
Hi Ryan, I am in Jomtien and will be flying to Saigon from DMK, it would be very convenient for me to get the bus from Jomtien to BKK and then use the transfer bus to DMK, I originally flew into BKK early in November and will have a boarding pass for my flight out of DMK the day I travel, will I be able to use the shuttle, if not is there a normal bus service between the two airports?
Hi Geoff. Yes, you should have no problem boarding the free shuttle from BKK to DMK as long as you have a boarding pass in hand. Best of luck!
Hi Ryan,
Approximately which is the worst hour to go from BKK to DMK?
We will land at 06:35 am in BKK (Etihad international flight, hand luggage only), and we will take a flight at 10:00 am from DMK.
We would like to tal the free shuttle (2nd floor, gate 3) as there shouldn’t be traffic jam at that time..right?
Thanks in advance,
Carlo
Sounds like you shouldn’t have any issues making your flight. Just hop on the first shuttle and you should be all set.
Hi Ryan
Il be landing at BKK in d morning around 11am..will be staying somewhere close by and have a next day 8.30 pm flight from DMK..so if I leave from BKK the next day to go to DMK to catch my evening flight ,will I still be able to tk the free shuttle cz my time between both the flights will be more than 24 hours..
I don’t think that should be an issue. Just be sure to have a printed and valid boarding pass/e-ticket in hand to show the staff before boarding the shuttle bus.
Do they make stops between the airport? For example if I have a flight from phuket back to DMK and need to go to Kasetsart University. Will this shuttle stop at the bus stop for me? Thanks!
No. It is direct service between airports.
Ryan, arriving into BKK at 4pm on Saturday, April 15th. Heading to Siem Reap. I’m keen to book an AirAsia flight out of DMK at 8pm that same day. Is there enough time for the transfer? How is traffic from BKK to DMK on Saturday afternoon/evening? This is also the weekend of the water festival. Other option is a $100 usd more expensive flight out of BKK. Thoughts?
Thanks is advance, John.
Hey John. I can’t say for sure but what I will say is that at 4PM you might be risking hitting some traffic in the city. I imagine it might be a bit hectic. The other option would be to take an UBER and if you’re a first time user of Uber you can use my promo code UBERPTM and get a discount on your ride. Sure, it’s not FREE like the shuttle but it is another option. That’s a tough call because $100 USD more is quite expensive. Let me know what you decide to do. Best of luck and enjoy yourself.
Hello Ryan,
We are arriving BKK at 6:10 AM. Our next flight to phuket is at 9:45 AM. We do have checked luggage as well. What do you think is the best possible way to get there in time ? or is that even possible ?
Thank you,
– Ahmed
I wouldn’t risk it personally. That’s too tight of a window IMO. I would suggest trying Uber versus waiting on the next shuttle. Even then, it’s going to be cutting it close depending on how long you’re in line at immigration.
DMK has the cheapest good airport food I have ever seen. Food from about 1 Euro in the food hall. Water for next flight is also cheapish at about 50cents. Do not trust the tap water, ymmv.
Hi Ryan,
I am arriving BKK at 14:50 and will take visa on arrival, claim my checked in baggage. I need to catch another flight from DMK which is scheduled at 19:00 hrs. Do you think, I will be able to make it on time using the free Airport shuttle, keeping in mind the usual evening time traffic en-route?
Yes, you should have no problem.
Hello Ryan,
How is the traffic jam at 8 am between these two airports?
I believe 8am traffic in most major cities in the world would be considered pretty hectic. I wouldn’t risk it if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands.
If you look at the bus schedule, from 8 am – 11 am and again from 4 pm – 7 pm, buses run every 12 minutes as opposed to every 30 minutes other times. To me, this would indicate peak traffic times, meaning, temper expectations and assume closer to 2 hours than 45 minutes.
Thanks for your informative blog. I’m flying into bkk Sunday at 11 am and going to catch a flight to Phuket out of DMK. Booking it now, looking for something 2 pm or later. I’ll hit you back with how long the bus ride form BKK to DMK took.
Sounds great. Looking forward to hearing back from you.
Hi Ryan, we arrive in BKK at 1am on March 29th and connecting flight from DMK is 8.25am.
1. Can you please guide if it is a good idea to stay at BKK airport itself post immigration and take the 5am free shuttle to DMK ? This is assuming there is some lounging facility at BKK post immigration. This option will ensure a free ride to DMK.
2. Or should we Uber it up to DMK as soon as we are done with the formalities at BKK and spend the night at DMK ? In this case, is there any lounging facility at DMK and whether they will allow us inside the airport so early before our flight (8.25am from DMK)
Hi SM. Thanks for the comment.
Here’s a great resource for overnight in BKK airport: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/asia/bangkok.htm
DMK airport: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/asia/bangkok-don-muang-airport.htm
See which option suits your needs best ;-)
HI, I will be arriving at DMK airport on April 13th Morning. Can i take the airport shuttle till BMK using the free shuttle service? I will have my luggage with me and do we need to necessarily fly from BKK airport in order to use the shuttle service? Since i will be going to Pattaya from Bangkok my van will be starting from BKK airport and hence i will have to get transferred to BKK. Can somebody share the details?
You can only take advantage of the free shuttle service if you’re flying. It’s simply transportation for those who are transferring between airports to make their next flight. In your case, you will need to either take a taxi, tuk-tuk or Uber (best option) as suggested in the post. Best of luck!
This blog is really helpful. I am landing at BKK at 16.00 and I am catching a flight from DMK at 19.50. I know it’s tight but do you think it’s possible on the free shuttle at the time of day? Obviously it depends on traffic conditions but what are they usually like at this time of day?
Would the shuttle be the fastest way or would you recommend an alternative?
I think it’s possible but remember that there will be lots of traffic at that time of the day. I would recommend checking out Uber as I think the drivers would be able to maneuver their way around the traffic and use alternative routes versus the bus which takes the same direct route each day. You can find a promo code above for Uber if you’re a first time user. Best of luck!
Hi Ryan,
My question is somewhat similar to Alice. I am arriving at BKK from International flight from the states at 6:35 pm, I have a flight out of DMK at 9:45 pm on October 19th…given the time of year and time of day, do you think this is doable?
Sounds doable but you’ll need to hustle and hope that your experience at immigration in BKK is quick and painless.
Thank you in advance for this information now i am going to dmk and need to go bkk i hope this still works
Hi Mark. Everything should be up to date. If you find that something has changed, please follow up and let us know in a comment. Thanks!
Hi,
I will flight to Thailand (BKK Airport) in April-17.
Is this option to travel for free to DMK available?
Thanks!
If you have another flight departing from DMK airport within 24-48 hours after arrival in BKK — YES.
Hey Ryan, let me start by thanking you for the excellent information and your promptness in communicating with would be travellers. More power to you!
My query –
eta @ dmk from Phuket @ 2310hrs
Etd from bkk @ 0350hrs
1) Do we have enough time or should I look for another incoming flight from Phuket?
2) Is the last shuttle still @ midnight ?
3) We are a group of 2 adults + 2 children (cabin as well as check in luggage for all). Would 1 uber be able to handle all? Asking as am not aware of the adequacy of the vehicles mostly running as cabs in Bangkok.
Thanks a lot once again for keeping this page alive. ????????
Hi Bikram,
1. Yes as long as you can catch that last bus at 24:00. I’m not sure though. You might need to UBER.
2. Yes.
3. Yes, you can order a larger Uber if necessary. Just be sure to plug in the amount of passengers before requesting the Uber pickup.
Enjoy!
Hey Ryan,
i wanna go from HKT to BKK Airport. I bring my bike in a large box with me. You think its gonna be a problem?
Ill arrive at HKT Airport around 07.15 am and have to catch the flight at BKK Airport 12.10 am. Is that enough time for the free shuttle service?
Thank you for your information and making a very helpful homepage :)
kind regards
Gunnar
Hi Gunnar. I’m sorry you will need to give me some more information in order for me to help you. You’re flying from HKT to BKK?
Hi Ryan & All,
Can you plz share with me any updates on the free shuttle bus between the 2 airport?
I’m arriving at DMK and plan to catch a bus from BKK airport to HuaHin. Wonder if there any chance I hop on to the free shuttle and drop at BKK airport? As I am not boarding to any plane at BKK airport. Just need to get to the bus terminal located there. Or any others alternative if the free shuttle not allowing me. Thanks very much.
Hi Alfred. You cannot use the free shuttle as a means of transport between two airports unless you have a valid boarding pass for a flight. Your best bet to get from DMK to BKK is either to use a taxi (metered) or UBER. You can save some money if you use my Uber promo located above. Best of luck!
Appreciated your reply and confirm Ryan. Happy Travel for all out there. ;)
Alfred
No problem Alfred. Thanks!
Love this, thank you! These are some very useful tips!
Thanks for this article, it’s very thorough.
No problem! ;-)
Hi Ryan!
I’m traveling to thailand this july 2. I will arrive at BKK at 8:40am and planning to take the 11:40am flight to phuket at DMK. I have no baggage to check-in. Is it too risky or will i be able to make it? Thank you in advance!
Do we need transit visa in Thailand for travelling from BKK to DMK ?
We are flying to BKK from BOM and then taking a light from DMK to REP
Hi Atul. Please see the following link for more information:
http://www.thaiembassy.org/hague/th/services/42921-Transit-through-Thailand.html
Better yet, it might be worth sending the Thai Embassy an email just to be sure.
Hi Ryan
Gulfair Eta @ BKK 09.30 am. Phuket airasia flight from DMK @ 11.40 am. Is there enough time to opt free shuttle or use Taxi ?
We are 2 Adult + 2 Child with check in baggage.
If the above transit time is not enough, shall I change phuket flight to 13.15 pm prior travelling, or can this be done at DMK check in counter if i miss 11.40 am flight ?
Please advise.
Hi Sbs. WOW. That is going to be very tight no matter how you look at it (shuttle vs taxi). I hope you don’t hit any big lines at immigration because if you do you will be in trouble. In this specific case I would say Uber/Taxi because you need something immediately and you have no time to waste sitting around waiting for the next available shuttle.
If you miss your flight, it’s on you. You’ll have to speak with the airline regarding your concerns. Best of luck!
Thanks Ryan.
For safe side, I changed my Phucket flight to 01:15 pm. Took free shuttle and reached DMK @ 11.45 am. Everything went well and we enjoyed the trip.
Glad to hear it! Thanks for following up.
Thanks! This was super helpful. We took the 6.30am bus (found it easily from your instructions), it took 1hr 15mins with a bit of traffic. Plenty of time for bag drop etc for 10am flight. Perfect!
Thanks for following up Emma! Glad to hear the free shuttle worked out well for you.
Hi Ryan, I am reaching at BKK airport at 1:00 am and have flight at 7:00 am from DMK airport. If you can help me with which will be convenient and safe way for the transport?
Thank you in advance
Hi Ryan, Thank you for this article, very helpful!
We are arriving to BKK at 9:00 am on Thursday, and wondering if we can catch a flight from DMK at 13:30? both of the flights are international, and we have a cabin baggage..
what do you think? how is the traffic at this time of the day?
Thanks!
Hi Gil — shouldn’t be an issue but you never know with Bangkok traffic.
Hi Ryan,
I would be arriving at DMK airport from there I need to reach Swarnaboomi BKK airport , the purpose is to meet our friends. I do not need to take any flight from BKK airport.
My query is, Need I carry any flight tickets that acknowledge I will take a flight from BKK airport. Please help. I want to use the free shuttle.
Thanks for your informative and useful article.
Regards,
Mona
No, you cannot use the free shuttle as free transportation.
Hi Ryan,
If I’ll arrive at BKK at 18:05 and want to take a flight from DMK at 22, do you think that would work with the transfer??
Could work depending on how fast you get through immigration and on to the bus. It’s hard to say, really.
Hi Ryan,
First up.. amazing blog. Truly a helping one. I just have two quick questions if you could help me please? I was planning to travel back home from Krabi via BKK.
1. The bus timing image posted on the blog shows a bus departing every 12 minutes however, some comments suggests its every 20 mins and some say its every hour basis. Please could you confirm the latest bus frequency as of now (DMK to BKK).
2. I was planning to take the first flight from Krabi to DMK (AirAsia) on a Thursday morning which will arrive in DMK @ 9:05AM. I have another international flight to catch (back home) from BKK airport at 11:50AM. Will I make it in time if I use the FREE BUS service considering the latest I need to checkin to an international flight? Will I miss the 9AM bus?
Thanks Jubz. The schedule you see here is correct as far as I know. No, I wouldn’t risk that, personally.
Hi Ryan,
First off, thank you so much for putting a site like this together. All of us greatly appreciate your responses and knowledge from getting back and forth from BKK and DMK. It looks like it’s helped many travelers, so thank you!!
My question is, we arrive at BKK at 10:30pm. We’ll have enough time to go through immigration and catch the last bus at midnight to DMK, correct? Our flight from DMK isn’t until 8:30am.
Thanks again!
Hey Chris. I think you should have enough time but you’ll need to hustle. Hopefully you don’t get caught in any lines at immigration. Otherwise I think you’ll be alright. Best of luck
Hi Ryan,
Can I know what is required to board the free shuttle? I am reaching DMK on a Friday and my return flight is on Sunday through BKK, however, can I still take the free shuttle when I arrive on Friday to BKK? I need to show them my flight ticket and passport as well for the shuttle right?
If your flight departs from either BKK or DMK you can use the free shuttle to transit in between airports for free. If you’re just using it to pass between airports you will not be allowed to board.
Hi, Ryan!
Thank you very much for your information. I am arriving at BKK airport at 2:30pm and I have a flight at DMK at 07am next day. Can I use the free Shuttle Just showing my flight ticket for the next day?
Yes, absolutely. You should be all set. Best of luck.
Hi
Flying from Cambodia (REP) on Friday morning 18th May 2018 to stay in Bangkok overnight for a flight Saturday 19 May at 11.40am. The free shuttle bus timetable is blue and red, ARE THE BLUE TIMES QUICKER TRANSFERS (offpeak e.g 11.30-16.00) so we can get to Bangkok, drop our bags and do a bit of sightseeing Friday. Thanks
Unfortunately, I do not know what the color coding is about at this time. I will try to find this out and update the article with the info.
Hi Ryan just got this weekend from Thailand, and we used the free shuttle thanks to your site! Be weary, I didn’t have reception when we first landed at BKK, so we didn’t have your directions on hand and ended up with wrong information and paying 750 baht to get from bkk to dmk!!!
Luckily I screenshot your directions for our return from dmk to bkk :) just wanted to confirm that as of October 28, 2017, the AOT shuttle can be found outside of door six at dmk. Not sure how to attach pictures, but I did take a couple if you’d like to post for your viewers!
Thanks for the feedback, Nicole! Door 6 — noted! Thank you.
Hey,
I am reaching BKK at 5:05 AM, and I have booked a 8:10 AM flight from DMK. I don’t think I should wait for the Free Airport Shuttle. Just wanted to know, how long will immigration take (given that I have a visa).
Also, I’ll be landing on the 4th Floor Thai Airways Terminal at BKK, which floor and which gate will be the closest and easiest to get an instant cab, I will not be having internet access, so Uber is not an option.
How long will the cab take at those hours? Should I reschedule the DMK flight?
No. I wouldn’t risk it. I have no idea how long immigration will take. Unfortunately, nobody will be able to tell you how long it should take. You can use the free Wi-Fi to order your Uber and meet at the designated door.
Hi Ryan,
I will be arriving at BKK airport 12:50AM. I have to catch next flight from DMK at 7:45 AM. Air asia DMK to Phuket. Is 5:00 Am shuttle suitable to catch the flight as in Flight tickets It is mentioned (Check-in Time : Check-in desks will close 2 hours before departure.) and approx 50 min as read above it takes when no traffic from BKK to DMK. if i reach at 6:00 AM approx at DMK airport, Airport authorities wont allow me to board the flight??
No. I wouldn’t risk it.
Hi Ryan, your article is really help. Same with Mona, I would be arriving at DMK airport and then I have to go to BKK to take a bus to Hua Hin. If I can’t take the free bus, then can you recommend me a bus from DMK to BKK? (where i have to go, and how much cost i have to pay). It would be great if you recommend the cheapest one haha. Thanks!
Hi Sekar — I would recommend you use Uber.
This blog post is amazing! Thank you for your help and sharing this info. My sister and I are landing in BKK @ 1615 and were thinking of going straight to Phuket and catch their last flight out of DMK @ 2200…do you think we will be able to make that flight with rush hour traffic in mind and customs? thank you!! Also, Happy Thanksgiving.
Hey Suz — Yeah you should have absolutely no problem with getting to DMK. Best of luck and enjoy your trip! Happy Thanksgiving to you, too.
Hello ! I have a question. If we arrive to BKK airport at 06:40, and want to catch a flight from DKK at 10:40, it’s possible with free bus ? And if we only go from BKK to DKK airport with tickets printed, and after that we leave the Thailand, we need to pay the visa 50$ for each person ? They will consider a international transfer or we need to pay for visa for Thailand ?
Thanks a lot !
Cosmin
Might be tough if you run into traffic at that time of the morning. You just never know with Bangkok traffic. Unfortunately, I cannot provide advice in regards to visas. Best of luck, Cosmin!
Thank you so much for this information! I’m really starting to look forward to my trip to Thailand in less than two weeks as it’s all starting to really come together! Just a quick question: At the end of my trip, I’ll be arriving into DMK around 1.30am on Friday January 5th, and my flight out of BBK is around 8.30am. I’ll have no luggage to check…if I take the bus at 5am, will this be enough time to get my flight? Or should I find another way of getting there earlier?
Thanks! :)
If you catch the 5am you should be fine. Hopefully you won’t hit too much traffic at that hour.
Hi Ryan,
I’ll arrive Dec 16 7pm at DMK and fly out of BKK on Dec 19 8am. Can I take the shuttle going to BKK airport?
I believe your flight needs to be within a 24 hour window but if you stay near DMK and then head back to DMK on the 19th and take the shuttle from there you should be fine.
Your best bet is to double check with the staff at DMK when you land on the 16th.
Hi Ryan!
Thank you for creating such an awesome and helpful page! I was wondering if you could help me out. I am flying from Northern Thailand to DMK and my flight lands at 10:35AM on a thursday (January 4th). My international flight back home takes off from BKK at 2:35PM. Do you think I’ll have enough time to use the free shuttle service and will my printed itinerary count as a boarding pass for the shuttle?
Hi Joy. Sorry for my late response. Just seeing this now. I think since it’s mid-day you should be okay. Just be sure to hop on the next bus as soon as you land and you should be okay. Yes, the printed itinerary for your next flight will be sufficient.
This was perfect! Just made it from bkk. Great directions and very easy! Thanks!!!!
Thanks for the feedback. Please share it with your family and friends traveling to Bangkok ;-)
Thank you for the solid transport guide! I learned about this option from your page. Would add one comment which is that when trying to get to the 2nd floor of BKK Airport from above you might encounter security that needs flight information, but this route isn’t necessary.. A lady who worked there actually walked me a different route to escalators that had no security, which led to the exits and door 3 like you wrote about.
Thanks for the tips, Sam! Glad to have been able to help you.
Hello, thanks a lot for the awesome info! Do you think it is still valid nowadays? I hope so. I also wanted to ask your opinion please :)
I am scheduled to arrive at 4 am in BKK. What is the fastest way to get to DMK? Do you think this shuttle is one of the fastest options, or is there faster?
Your help would be VERY much appreciated :)
Hi Dina. Yes, this is still valid and up to date. If your arrival is at 4AM you should be able to take the 5AM bus. If not, the next one is at 5:30AM. Otherwise, you could always take an Uber. Best of luck.
Hi, I am reaching BKK 2:45 am and I have to catch a 6:40 am flight to krabi from DMK. Do you think if I take the first bus of 5am from BKK then I will be able to make this flight?
I have an option of taking 7:45am flight from DMK as well. Do you think I should prefer that instead?
No. I wouldn’t risk taking the bus at 5am. It’s highly unlikely you’ll make it. Take an Uber at 2:45 and wait it out.
Hi Ryan! Thanks for the helpful information but I have a question.
I’m flying back to my country from BKK on April, 15th (Songkran) at 1:30 am. I will be coming from Krabi, so I will need to transfer from DMK to BKK the day before (April, 14th). So, of I get there (DMK) around 7pm, would it be enough time to get to BKK using the free shuttle or taxi?
Do you know if the shuttle service is affected by the holiday?
thank you very much!
You should have no problem at all at that time. Best of luck.
Hi Ryan,
We definetly have to catch a international flight on the 26.3.2018 at 9.30am at bkk.
Before that we are on Bali and have the following options to fly from Denpansar to DMK (international):
1) 26.3.18 that lands at 04:33am in DMK
2) 25.3.18 that lands at 4:50am in DMK (but is more expensive)
Do you think the first one is ok, or is it to risky because of delays etc.?
Kind regards Johannes und Carolin
Earlier the better my friends. Best of luck!
Hi there,
I will be BKK at 2 pm and my flight to krabi at DMk is 8 pm. Do you think I’ll have enough time to use the free shuttle service and whats the time of shuttle car ? is there any risk of taking shuttle car or I should go by taxi for avoiding risk.
Yeah, I believe so. Hop on the first shuttle bus after arriving in BKK and you should be fine.
Good site and useful info!
Short question: Do the staff of the shuttle bus only accept printed tickets or is a ticket confirmation (with booking number and date) on a camera or telephone also ok?
I believe showing your departure confirmation via your smartphone is sufficient enough.
Can i use the Free Transfer from DMK to BKK even though i dont have a flight to catch at BKK. (as would be getting in DMK and need to receive a friend from BKK)
Or do i need to show my flight details before i board on the Bus.
No. The shuttle is not for public use unless you have a flight.
Arriving bkk 4.10 pm hoping to catch a flight dmk 8.00pm possible with bus or is that rush hour and I be better off holing Uber ? By the way great site job well done thank youpeter
Might be tough due to traffic. I wouldn’t risk it.
Great article.
The location and times have not changed as of March 27, 2018
I showed my boarding pass on the airasia app and they stamped my hand to confirm I was good to go.
Thanks for the update, Yang! Appreciate it.
thanks Ryran for the information.
Same as Yang Chen.
I took the bus
2018/04/01 2200.
Thanks for following up!
Thank you for this! It’s very helpful. Just a question, are the public buses available throughout the day (or only at certain times of the day)? Thank you for your response!
You can check out the full schedule in the photo above.
Hi, I’m landing at DMK airport and after few days i will travelling out from BKK airport so will they allow me to use the free shuttle bus service even though i did not land at DMK airport the very same day?
Hi! We are so appreciative of people like you who share helpful travel tips. We have a few questions that’d we could use your feedback on!
We will be traveling to thailand for the our honeymoon, and we’re flying into to BKK from the US. We won’t arive until 10:30 pm. How long should we expect to wait in customs?
How early do you suggest we arrive to the DMK airport for domestic flights (HKT)? How early should we be there to checkin for International flights from BKK? Thank you!
Hi. Im reaching BKK at 1420 and my next flight is from DMK at 1830. Will the shuttle work for me or would it be better to take a taxi>
Is your flight to BKK international? If so, you’ll want to take into account that immigration can take a little while depending on how many flights are arriving at that time. You should have enough time but worst case scenario you can always use UBER.
arriving to BKK at 11:10am…. to catch a connecting flight at DMK,
should i get the 15:45 connecting flight or 18:10 to Chiang Mai
thanks. great informative site.
Hey Ryan! This is really helpful information. I have a question – I’ll be landing in BKK before midnight and have an 11 am DMK departure the next day. I’ll have a good amount of luggage as I’m moving for work. Should I stay around BKK and relax and a lounge and uber early the next day or do you think it’s better to go straight to DMK? Should the shuttle be a consideration at all?
Hi Ryan, great information. Thank you for this.
I am looking at an international flight from the US arriving in Bangkok at at 1:25 p.m.
I am waiting to spend the night in Bangkok and then fly from DMK to Luang Prabang. Would I still be allowed to use the free shuttle. These are two different itineraries with separate confirmation numbers.
Can anyone let me know how long it would take to get from the Bangkok cruise terminal to the DMK airport for a flight to Angkor Wat? I will be landing circa 8:00 a.m. and need to buy an air ticket in advance since this route is heavily booked. Expected cost would also help. I should add that time is of greater essence than money…
Hello ryan i m going to bkk airport on 19th july my arrival there is 20:55..i m getting cheap flights from dmk to Phuket… please advise will i able to catch a flight from dmk to Phuket i also have to apply my on arrival visa from bkk…and please also tell me..is there bus service available there so early in the morning…
Please reply asap…
Thanks
Vipin
India
Hi Vipin. I don’t know when your flight from DMK to Phuket is so I cannot advise you at this time.
Hi All, we are a group of 10 friends and would be landing DMK at 3.05pm and catch a flight at svarnabhumi at 8pm. How should we travel and is this much time sufficient or we should get our flights rescheduled?
Please help.
You will have plenty of time. Best of luck!
We arrive at 18:25 to BKK. We want to head over to DMK because we have a flight the next morning. Will we be eligible for the free shuttle bus?
Thank you
Yes. Should be no problem at all just be sure to present your boarding pass.
Hii Ryan
I m arriving to BKK at 01:05 AM and want to catch flight for Phuket from DMK at 06:00 AM.
Please suggest How to reach DMK on time.
thanku
You can either choose to grab an official taxi (metered) from the taxi rank or download the Grab Taxi app and order a Grab. Getting there at that hour should be no problem at all.
Hello,
My husband and I are taking a trip to Thiland December. We land at DMK, coming from Phuket, at 0730. Our flight home is from BKK at 1330. Would this be enough time to catch the Free Shuttle between the 2 airports? Thanks.
Karissa
Yes. You should have enough time to catch the shuttle.
Hi, My timing is tighter than Karissa’s! We arrive at DMK at 10;45PM and fly out of BKK at 1AM. Shuttle will not work?
How much is the GRAB taxi, and would it be enough time?
Thanks- you are very helpful !!!
Bob Cheney
No, I wouldn’t risk the shuttle.
For the taxi estimate, try this: https://www.taxifarefinder.com/main.php?city=GrabCar-Economy-Bangkok-Thailand&lang=en
Hi,
I’m heading into BKK this Friday night, arriving a little after midnight. The last bus leaves at midnight and the first bus leaves at 5:00 am. I’m trying to see if I should just stay there in the airport, not sure if that’s allowed and then head out on the first flight to DMK? Or, if I leave the airport, get a room for the night, how do I get to the free shuttle coming back into the airport?
Just used this today! Thanks so much!
Glad to hear it!
Hello Ryan, I will arrive in DMK from Tokyo at 13.50, then I’ll go to BKK to catch a plane to Koh Samui. Should be enough time to take the shuttle instead of the taxi, right? Thanks!
Well, what time is your Samui flight at?
Hi Ryan!
Will we need to show boarding passes to get on the shuttle from DMK going to BKK? Well be coming back from Krabi and staying in Bangkok for a few more days before heading home.
Yes, you will.
Hi… coming to Thailand in September.. flight landing at 8am and flight out to Phuket from dmk at 10.40. Is that ok?
Two hours and 40 mins between flights is not enough.
Hi, is it possible for me to hop on the shuttle bus to BKK from DMK even if i have no next flight to catch? Because my flight arrives at DMK and would like to meet with my family in BKK for the trip. Do i need to pay extra for that?
TQ
No. This shuttle can only be used for normal transportation between the airports. You must have a boarding pass.
Hi, just wondering if you know if this free bus shuttle service is still active as of now and even in September?
Yes, of course! This guide is constantly updated. Thank you!
Hi there we are arriving into DMK airport on the 30th Dec at 09:05 which is a Sunday our departing international flight leaves at 13:45 from BKK and I think check in is about 2hours prior departure .Do you think the free bus service will work for us or a alternative transport
At that time you should be alright but don’t waste ANY time.
Dear Ryan,
I will arrive BKK at 4 am and my next flight depart from DMK at 7h10 am? could I take the fist shuttlebus at 5 am from BKK and reach DMK at 6am, then enough time for check-in/immigration (only hand bag) at DMK for Thai Lion air flight at 7h10. Many thanks for your advice.
That’s cutting it a little tight. I wouldn’t risk it.
Hi Ryan – Thank you very much for putting all information altogether and keeping this page up-to date. I am just wondering how much we can rely on this free shuttle service between the two airports? What is the frequency of buses running from BKK to DMK?
I will arrive at BKK Airport on November 21 (Wednesday) at 9 am and my next flight to Phuket is at 12:45 PM from DMK airport on the same day? Do you think I will be able to catch my flight if I take this shuttle service? Just FYI, I already got the VISA.
hi
plane departs DMK for Mae Sot on Sat 29/12/18 at 9-40am. Does free transport between airports start early enough for us to use this option? If so what time would be best?
We return from Mae Sot at 11-30am Tuesday 1st Jan 2019 & have flight from BKK leaving at 3.50pm. Is there enough time to travel to meet our connecting flight?
Steve
Hi Ryan, is it possible to ride the free bus to BKK if your just going to pick someone up? Me and my partner will be meeting in Bangkok. I will be arriving at DMK and she will be at BKK. Thanks in advance.
No.
Hi Ryan…
We will be arriving DMK airport at 7:20 PM and from BKK we have another flight at 10:40 PM.
Will this work..??
I’m not sure I’d risk that timing.
Hi Ryan!
We have a problem with choosing a right flight.
We will arrive at BKK at 9.35 (a.m) on Friday. We are thinking about flight from DMK at 13.30 (1.30 p.m).
Is there any chance to be on time using the free shuttle bus?
There is also a flight from DMK at ~20.00 (8.00 p.m), but we prefer to be on the spot as soon as possible.
Best regards!
First flight should be OK but just remember it all depends on how much time it takes to get through immigration, if your flight is on-time, baggage, etc.
Very helpful Ryan
I read through a lot of questions and I will proceed as per your advice.
Its odd that all this information you have is not in the airport website .So congratulations to you.
Thanks Steve!
Hi Ryan,
This website is great! Thank you =) question regarding my trip: HOLIDAY SEASON December 30th..I am landing at BKK at 9.50 AM and my flight is at DMK at 2.40PM do you think I have enough time for transfer using the shuttle?
TIA,
Sorry for the late response. Hope you made it on time!
Hi
Plz help us in transfer from DMK to BKK. We are landing from phuket to DMK at 1.30 Am. Our next flight from BKK airport is at 8.30 Am for India. Plz suggest a good way to reach on time at BKK airport. How much time before we should reach. THANKS.
I would recommend using a Grab taxi because the first shuttle doesn’t run until 5AM.
Hi Ryan, thank you for the blog and answering everyone. My two boys and I have a flight from DMK to Buri Ram leaving at 2pm. When would be the best time to leave BKK with the shuttle bus to get to DMK in time? I’m asking mainly to avoid rush hour. Also, on my return, my flight leaves BKK at 9:45pm and I was planning on leaving Buri Ram at 3pm, which will get me to DMK at 4pm. Will that be enough time to get me to BKK and checked in by 9:45pm at BKK for my international flight? Or should I leave Buri Ram with the morning flight?
Hi Ruby — Earlier the better just in case of traffic along the way. Maybe 10AM? On the way back, I wouldn’t be so sure it will only take 1 hour (3-4pm). Again, the earlier the better.
Hi,
I will be arriving at DMK on 3 Dec at 5.40 HRS. I am planning to catch a connecting flight from BKK to USM at 8.25 HRS. The gate closes at around 7.45 HRS in BKK. So, ideally I have 2 hrs 25 min in hand from landing at DMK to reaching the gates at BKK.
Is it a safe timing in the morning? I will be travelling for the first time.
Seems a little too tight of a schedule for my liking. I wouldn’t risk it.
Awsome! We will be there tomorrow and i let you kno guys how this works…
Thanks!
Hi! I’m arriving at BKK on February 21, 2019 a little after midnight. My flight at DMK is at 13:50 to Vientiane. Do you know if the shuttle operates 24hrs? Will that be enough time to get to DMK? Thank you!
The shuttle does NOT operate 24 hours. You can find the schedule above! ;-)
Thanks Ryan. Your info is still very much valid! (thumbs-up) Just took the shuttle. They rubber stamp the passengers for whatever reason.
Will arrive at Don Muang Airport by air Asia and stay here for 2 nights before catching my next flight to Bhutan, my outbound flight is at 6am and prefer to stay near Survanabumi airport for easy transfer. Do I entitle to the free shuttle bus from Don muang airport to Survanabumi airport?
I believe the flight needs to be within 24 hours but you could always walk out to the bus to ask to be sure.
Hi I want to go from DMK to BKK to catch the bus from BKK to Pattaya. I will not have an airline ticket. Can I take the shuttle?
No.
thanks for the info, it will save me a night ( or long wait in the airport) when going from hkt/dmg and leaving from bkk
Glad to hear it!
do I have to have a connecting flight at BKK to be able to take the shuttle bus?
Yes.
Hi Ryan, firstly thank you for these details, its extremely helpful! I just wanted to check something, and apologies it’s probably really obvious from your info above, but we arrive into BKK airport on Saturday afternoon 8th Dec, around 1.30pm from London and we will then need to catch another flight from DMK at 8.30pm takeoff. Now, thats 7 hours to go through immigration, get across the city yo DMK and check in on time for our flight (we are flying to Phnom Penh). Does this sound reasonable? I know you say it can take up to 2 hours to cross the city, Im a little nervous of crossing the city on a Saturday and just wanted to get some re-assurance, albeit I know you cant tell for sure! Any the buses still go from the same directions above and every 30 mins? Many thanks, much appreciated. Declan
You shouldn’t have any issues at all. Yes, the schedule remains the same.
Hi Ryan. I need your advise please. My flight from siem reap arrives in DMK airport at 17:50pm. My flight home is departing from BKK at 21:50pm. I know that with the bus shuttle its a bit risky… But If I take a taxi from DMK you think I can manage the time?
You should be alright. Find out how long the shuttle will take to arrive and then make a decision on whether it’s better to just jump in a Grab taxi instead of waiting for the shuttle to arrive.
Hey. I’m arriving at DMK, next flight is from BKK. Do I need Thailand visa to change airports? Indian citizen btw.
Yes, you do need to pass through immigration in order to get to the shuttle.
Thanks for your article!
It took us 1h10 for out of the plane of bkk to security control done in dmk this morning.
We were stressed because we had only 3hours but we have time for lunch finally.
Conditions:
Landing at 10:30
Bus after landing to terminal 10min
Walking and passing immigration 5min (lucky)
Finding the bus 5min
Bus started just we went in
No trafic jam, 5 min at each toll so about 45 min
Going to terminal 2 and security 5 min
We may have had great conditions but it can helps calculating for others!
Thanks so much for sharing. This is incredibly helpful information and I’m sure it will help a lot of people arriving in BKK/DMK. You sure got lucky at immigration! Honestly, your whole experience was as streamlined as it gets. Nice work!
Hey! Thanks for this awesome information. I’ll be over there in March and am hoping this is still how it will works at that time! Question– if my flight is arriving at BKK at 7am, what’s the earliest you’d recommend booking a flight out of DMK? Thanks a bunch!
Thanks for the feedback. Everything should be working the same as this info has been the same for years now. I would say no earlier than 11am-noon as you need to factor in immigration, baggage, the transfer to DMK, etc.
Somehow I found ThaiViet Airlines, but lost the contact. Found VietJetAir. Seems to be the same one. What do you know about it? It shows flying form BKK to Phuket.
Unfortunately, I don’t know much about this airline that you’re mentioning. Sorry!
Thank you for this! You saved my wife and I 550 Baht. It was easy to get to as you stated.
Thanks for the feedback.
Hey there:) I have question and hope somebody will be able to help me.
We arrive Bangkok suvarnabhumi on january 27th , 8.20 a.m + 1 hour. I’m wondering if we can risk and buy a next flight from the same airport , 10.20 a.m.
Is that enough time to go through emigration, take luggage and do next check-in?
Thank you for your help and suggestions
No way. Too tight. Even if you’re flying from the same airport, you’ll still be counting on your flight landing on time, getting through immigration, picking up your baggage, exiting and rechecking your baggage with your airline and passing back through security. That’s a lot to worry about. Best of luck.
Hi, As part of tourism I’m planning to visit Bangkok with Krabi/Phuket with my family. Can you please help me to know what are the good budget hotel (with excellent all round facilities)
Hey Ryan,
Im going to BKK in Nov, I fly in Nov 16th and i have a flight in DMK the next morning at 6am? you think i could take the shuttle to DMK when i land on the 16th?
Yes, you will just need to show your boarding pass so be sure to download it electronically beforehand and/or print it out.
Hello Ryan
I wonder if you have some info for a bus ride from bkk to pattaya and their schedule as well as the fare please? Would appreciate it very much, you have a good day.
Please find the information here: https://airportpattayabus.com/
Hi, thanks for the great info! Our flight with AirAsia lands in DMK at 11:20 am on a Sunday from Vietnam. We need to transfer from DMK to BKK for our flight to Koh Samui. we have different options but we are going to book a 3:15 pm flight from BKK. Do you think almost 4 hours gives us enough time to pick up our baggage, get through customs and immigration and transfer to BKK on time?
Hey Matt — You should have enough time although if your flight is late you’ll be cutting it close. Best of luck!
Hi there, took from bkk airport to dmk airport at 3pm . Took 55 mins but it’s starting to jam along the way
Thanks for the feedback!
Hi Ryan,
This may be a very convoluted a complicated question, but I thought maybe you were the guy to ask. I will be traveling to BKK but I have a friend who is traveling into DMK. Bangkok is our final destination airport wise on this trip. He has never flown before nor does he know how to travel. I am trying my best to have him meet me at at BKK when I arrive considering he will be arriving hours before me. Is it possible for him to take the free shuttle over to BKK to meet me over there even though he doesn’t have any real need to be at that airport? Will they have restrictions on who can take the free shuttle if they are not actually taking a flight out of there?
I know… an odd question but I am looking for answers.
Thank you!
Hi there. Unfortunately, no. He will not be able to use the free shuttle without a proper boarding pass.
Thanks for this page…..my son will be travelling in July and this will be most helpful. Especially on a very low budget
Glad to hear it. Thanks!
Hi ,
hope you will be fine .Me want to know about some information if me come in bkk airport and some day stay and then go to bali and back to DMK Airport and me have a single entry visa . can me travel again to BKK from my county without any disturbance.
After reading this article, I tried and traveled free of cost from bkk to dmk. Thank you for this post
Thanks for the feedback!
Public transport in Thailand is pot luck at best. I have tried many times. (Family in Bangkok & Ubon). Get a taxi, it’s simpler, quicker, easier, safer and it costs about £10 max.
Hi,
I have question and hope somebody will be able to help me.
Take my flight from Mumbai at 1.45 AM and arrive Bangkok suvarnabhumi on November 1st , 2019, 7.40 a.m + 1 hour (take visa on arrival). I’m wondering if we can risk and buy a next flight from DMK airport , 11.20 a.m. to Phuket.
Is that enough time to go through emigration, take luggage and do next check-in?
Thank you for your help and suggestions
Hello Ryan
I have flight from BKK airport at 15:15 but i have another flight to arrive on DMK at 09:30 AM. Can i reach on time on BKK airport By using Shuttle Bus or I Choose any another Option? Suggest me?
Actually I am travelling to BKK, but I have to go DMK after all. can I take this advantage as I have no flight from DMK only I am landing in BKK And returning back again from BKK after spending few days?
Hi
I land at bbk from out of Thailand at 9:45. And I have a flight from dmk at 12:40. What do you think. Is an Uber or taxi arrives faster than the shuttle? Thank you
I would recommend ordering a Grab taxi unless the bus is waiting to leave as you exit the airport.
I understand that one has to “reserve” the spot on the free shuttle bus between DMK and BKK- I can ‘t find the link to do that! Can you help?
Thanks
TJ
Hi, this thread still seems active after so many years, so I’m trying my luck for some assurance also :)
My AirAsia flight from Yangon arrives at Don Mueang 10.15 am, then my next Philippine Airlines flight depart from BKK at 1.30 pm. Do you think the time is enough to transfer between the two airports? Most likely I won’t have any check-in luggage to wait for.
Thanks !
Thanks for the tips! Did exactly what you said and it was easy. Got on the shuttle bus and left BKK @ 11:20am, arrived DMK @ 12:20pm. This really helped to save some $$$. Our flt is @ 4pm so we still have alot of time to wake around.
hey friends ,
I need some information and help,
i will reach to Bangkok BKK airport on 15th of April , then from BKK i need to go to PHUKET.
I found that , Flights from BKK to PHUKET are costly than DMK to PHUKET.
I want to ask that , how i can transfer from BKK to DMK , and is the transportation services are available on 15th of APRIL , because i heard that there is a SONGKRAN festival in BANGKOK. and generally how much time taken to travel from BKK to DMK.?
another problem i found that , whatever the flights are there from DMK to PHUKET , are not allowing CHECK-IN BAGGAGE, if i have a CHECK-IN baggage , how i get a transportation from BANGKOK to PHUKET?
help me with some solution.
THANKS
My flight from from Vietnam lands in DMK at 22:45 and i need to catch my international flight at BKK airport at 5:45 AM on next day. I want to book a hotel near BKK airport to rest. Do i need to complete visa on arrival in DMK? Please suggest me the best way.
Hey Harsh. Yeah, you will need to get your visa on arrival in order to stay the night in Bangkok. Here are some great accommodation options near the DMK Airport that you should consider: https://airbnb.pvxt.net/kNBWV
Are Thai Lion flights delayed pretty often? Any more often than Nok Air or Air Asia flights? Saw some pretty bad reviews of Thai Lion Air online and I was wondering what your experience with them is. I don’t care about comfort and I’m not checking bags, just wondering what the chances of a delay are…
DETAILS: My flight lands in BKK at 9:35 AM and I’m trying to land in Surat Thani (URT) early enough to catch the last bus-ferry to my next destination (last bus->ferry leaves FROM THE AIRPORT at 4:10 pm). Debating between a Thai Lion flight DMK->URT 2:00 PM-3:10 PM, or a Nok Air flight DMK->URT 12:40 PM-1:50 PM.
We’re more likely to catch the later flight, but some of the Thai Lion reviews said that their airline is essentially a checked baggage scam and that frustrated customers/poor baggage loading procedures caused delays. Wondering what your thoughts were and if you’ve flown with Thai Lion before. Thanks.
My friend and i are planning a trip to Thailand in july. We are also visiting Singapore. A flight back to DMK from Singapore leaves at 8:30pm arrives at 10:05pm. Our flight from BKK to NY leaves at 1am. Would you suggest taking a grab taxi from DMK to BKK? would we make it in time by atleast midnight to check in and etc?
Cool Ryan Thanks. Am traveling from Holland to Bangkok and true DMK to Myanmar. I will do exactly how you wrote. hahah I will make sure to have with me and walk exactly as indicated. Thanks a lot for sharing.
Best of luck!
Hi Ryan
We are landing to DMK Since it is cheaper than BKK. We are planning to stay in Pratunam. So can we use the free shuttle bus to reach BKK and then to Pratunam by BTS?
Not unless you have a valid flight/boarding pass for the next day to fly from BKK.
Thanks Mr Ryan
No problem.
10 May 2019
10 May 2019
Dear Ryan,
My wife is landing at DMK while my plane is landing in BKK and ahead by at least 3 hours , can I use the free shuttle to travel to DMK to meet my wife?
Your reply on this query is highly appreciated.
Thank you.
Hi Ronald. If you are flying into BKK and transferring to DMK to hop on another flight, then YES. If not, then no. Unfortunately, the shuttle can only be used by those who have a valid boarding pass/ticket for a flight out of either DMK or BKK. This shuttle is simply dedicated to transferring passengers from one airport to another. This is NOT a free ride to either airport. Best of luck and have a great trip.
Sir, my flight 2am at bbk airport , that time no any shuttle bus, what I do sir, for go DMk, for my connecting flight
You should order a GRAB Taxi from the airport.
Hi Ryan
I want to know that my flight is on 7 December and I m landing bkk airport on 7 December and my next flight is on 8 December from dmk …so I can get free shuttle service with valid tickets? Thank you
I’m just back from travelling to Thailand and as my final destination flight was to Roi Et airport I used the free shuttle bus service between BKK and DMK airports in Bangkok. It was simple and just as you have described here and I am grateful for having this information before I travelled. Only difference is that now that at both BKK and DMK airports you approach the AOT desk at the respective Gate 3 at BKK and Gate 6 at DMK where the staff check your boarding pass (paper or e-boarding pass) and stamp the back of your hand. Porters beside the bus check your hand and will even assist you with putting your case on board. I was lucky as I avoided the rush hours period and had a painless free trip both ways.
Thanks for posting this valuable money saving advice. NB anyone planning to travel to Roi Et airport as I did then there are only 3 flights per day between DMK and Roi Et so plan your trip to suit and allow time for the bus depending on rush hours traffic. Flights to Roi Et leave from Terminal 2 at DMK.
Thanks for sharing!
Are they strict about the boarding pass requirement? We fly into DMK the evening of 7/12 and fly out very early on 7/14 out of BKK. Our plan is to stay two night out by the BKK airport.
I believe the policy is that your flight must be within 24 hours but I could be wrong. My recommendation would be to ask once you arrive and see what they say. If you could update us in a comment on this post that would be greatly appreciated!
hi Rayan
Kindly guide me … i will arrive bkk at 6:25 pm and my next flight is from dmk at 10:55 pm for phuket. Can i reach in one hour by taxi to DMK after my immigration and luggage clearance
Hi Zertashia. You’re really cutting it close. Try your best to get through immigration/baggage as fast as possible. Getting there in an hour shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Best of luck!
Hi Ryan,
I am travelling from melbourne to DMK
i need to visit Bangkok city. What would be the cheapest way to travel . i am only carrying hand luggage 7Kg.
Does the free shuttle runs from DMK to Bangkok city?
Prince
Thank you so much for the free transfer information from BKK to DMK. I used this service 2 days back (on 10-Jun-2019) and it worked like a charm. I came out of the EXIT C – Baggage claim area at around 9.05pm, i started proceeding towards Gate 3. On the way, i confirmed with AOT counters about the free shuttle and they confirmed just go to Gate 3. After getting out at gate 3, i showed my e-ticket for next day flight from DMK, they stamped me and my family and I was on the shuttle bus. It started right on time – 9.30pm . It took exactly 48 minutes from BKK to DMK. The following piece of info can be updated (It is not required)
UPDATE: There is an information desk inside the terminal at Gate 6 which you have to visit before boarding the bus. You’ll have to show your boarding pass and get it stamped. (Credit: Matthias 3/29/2019.)
Thanks Punit! Appreciate you checking in with us with your experience.
Hiya. I am landing at 16:25 at DMK and I am leaving BKK at 21:00. Do you adivse I take the free shuttle or a grab taxi? I ma worried as it will be rush hour and I have to go through passport control off the plane. I am an anxious traveller and would like the easiest route. I cannot get there earlier as I am working. Everything is also booked. Does the bus take longer than 2 hours at rush hour? Are grabs easy to book with wifi at airport? Or do i try and pre-book? Thanks for help.
Hi Hattie. You should have plenty of time to transfer between the airports. What I would recommend is to get through passport control, grab your bags and see what time it is at that point. If you’re short on time (I can’t imagine you will be), just grab a GRAB taxi and be on your way instead of waiting for the next shuttle transfer.
Hii there,
I will be reaching DMK at around 5:00 a.m. by Air Asia Flight. I want to access the free shuttle to BKK as I want to catch a bus to Pattaya.
What documents do I need access the free shuttle?
You cannot board the free shuttle without a valid boarding pass for a flight from BKK or DMK airport. This is not a free shuttle for you to use to get to the bus you want to take to Pattaya.
Hi, You mention that in order to use the free shuttle bus you have to present your boarding pass. But when you arrive from an international flight at BKK, you have no boarding pass on the flight leaving from Don Mueang, since no check in has been made yet. So, when you mention boarding pass does this mean that it’s enough to present your flight ticket for the flight leaving from DM? Thanks
Thank you very much!
I am arriving into DMK at 7.15pm and flying out of BKK next morning at 8am – totally different airlines. I am staying at a hotel at BKK so want to use the shuttle to get to BKK then go to the hotel. Will have itinerary for next morning but no boarding pass yet. Will this be ok to get to BKK then find my way to the Novotel ?
Hi, is the free shuttle info up to date ? Thank you! :)
Yes, it is. ;-)
Thank you so much for this guide, it was a huge help and saves so much $$.
They have a desk setup outside door 3 right in front of the bus so no need to go to 6, you simply show your itinerary/boarding pass, they stamp you and on the bus you go.
My bus left about 8:23am and arrived about 9:35am.
Thanks for following up, Ebony. I appreciate the help to keep the information on this page updated.
Hey, thanks for posting this. Do you know if I arrive in BKK and have booked an onward flight from DMK will it work? I think it will be cheaper to book the air asia flight separate to my long haul flight so they wont be on the one itinerary. Will I still be able to use the express bus?
Thanks for any advice!
do we require any type of VISA to travel from BKK to DMK for using the shuttle bus service. i have to board a flight from DMK.
Yes, there should be a visa on arrival depending on which country you’re traveling from.
Hi, thanks for all the important information. I am reaching BKK at 2:30 PM and my next flight is from DMK at 7:30 PM. Can you suggest good vegetarian food (if possible Indian vegetarian food) options near BKK or DMK (preferably DMK) ?
Unfortunately, I cannot provide you with restaurant suggestions. I recommend you use GoogleMaps and check reviews of local restaurants.
Dear Ryan,
Need an advice from you. I just received an email that my NOK flight is cancelled that was scheduled to take off from DMK airport at 11:20 am and they have given a choice to reschedule for 9:55 am flight. I will be arriving at BKK on an international flight (means i have to go through immigration) approx. at 6:15 am. Would I have enough time to clear immigration, collect baggage and reach DMK on time to checkin for the flight scheduled to takeoff at 9:55am.
Hi there. I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s possible but you would be cutting it quite close in my opinion. You have to figure that you’re not going to be through immigration and to your baggage until at least 7-7:15am. Then you’d have to catch the next bus (asap) and hope that the traffic wasn’t too hectic at that time of the morning. I can’t make the decision for you but if you decide to go for it, the worst case scenario would be that you’d need to grab another flight from DMK.
Hi Ryan,
Thanks so much for this useful post! It was very helpful last time I had a layover in Bangkok.
I have a couple of questions for my next trip, and I really hope you have some good tips for me! :)
My flight from Bali lands at DMK at 11.10pm and I have a flight from BKK at 09.05am the next morning.
1. Do you think there’s any chance at all I’ll make the shuttle at midnight?
2. Do you know if I’ll be able to check in at BKK that many hours before my flight if i decide to go to BKK that night?
3. If not, would I be able to find a quiet place/corner to sleep on the floor at BKK that night?
4. Last one, I promise! Can you recommend an airport hotel within walking distance of DMK so that I can take the free shuttle before my morning flight from BKK?
Hey Nathalie!
1. No, I don’t think it’s likely that you’ll make the shuttle but you can take a Grab taxi or alternative transport to a cheap overnight hotel nearby BKK that evening.
2. No. Check-in is usually 3 hours ahead.
3. You might be able to find somewhere to nap downstairs.
4. There are many. Check the bottom of the article and you’ll see a section called Hotels near DMK.
Hi Ryan,
I arrive at BKK at 08.50 and my flight from DMK to Phuket is at 13.30. Do you think I’ll have enough time to use the free shuttle? Not sure how long it takes to go through immigration and collect bags? I’m travelling on a UK passport for <30 days and therefore I don't need a visa, hoping this speeds things up a bit.
Thanks!
Anna
Yes, that amount of time should be sufficient.
Hi Ryan, first off thank you for providing all of this info. I have an urgent question. We realized our transfer was out of DMK a bit late and are worrying we are not going to make the transfer now. Our BKK arrival is at 8:45 pm and our flight out of DMK to Chiang Mai is at 10:20 pm. Is this enough time at all to get to DMK from BKK even via taxi? Or do we need to change our plans accordingly. THanks again
Thanks for the information! it’s so usefull. I’m traveling to Thailand on April. I’ll arrive at Bangkok on April 13 (songkran), and then i have to take a flight to phuket from BKK airport ..so i’m wondering if you know if the free shuttle bus will be working on this festive day? Thank you.
Hi, this was super useful, thanks so much for posting. just wanted to add one piece for clarification to your readers –
When catching the bus from bkk, it is *after* exiting baggage claim. I misunderstood and went all the way to the left side of the baggage claim – the closest exit was “exit C” which was next to door 9/10, so I had to walk all the way back to the other side. Exit point B is next to door 6; I didn’t see if there was an exit A , but if there was, I’d guess it’s the closest exit to door 3 (where the bus was).
Thanks for the feedback.
This is an incredible tip – I can’t believe I didn’t know about it before now! I don’t think I’ve ever actually transferred between the airports, but I’ve definitely booked more expensive tickets to ensure I’m flying in and out of the same one. Maybe I won’t have to next time. Thanks!
Thanks for the comment. Best of luck.
Great.. I followed your instruction from BKK to DMK.. took 45 minutes.
Thanks for sharing! What time did you take the bus at?
We will arrive on BKK 13 Jan at 10am and our flight departs from DMK at 13:30pm. What would you advise? Grab taxi or free shuttle bus. Checking in deadline is before 12:00. Im a bit stressed out we miss our flight. Did not know about the different airports…
I would only take the shuttle if it’s sitting there waiting for you to board as soon as you exit. If not, jump in a Grab ASAP.
Hi, is the shuttle available to those arriving at the International Terminal at BKK, but have a ticket booked online from DMK to Phuket?
Yes, you can take the shuttle from BKK to DMK without issue.
Hey Guys,
Do you know if it’s still possible to take the bus if you don’t have a flight from the other airport?
Like, pay for a ticket?
Just because this is the only direct connection as far as I’m aware.
Cheers!
No. This shuttle bus is strictly for those who have departing flights from the alternative airport.
Is there a Visa necessary to travel from BKK to DMK ?
Thanks in advance
Yes, you need a visa on arrival in order to exit the airport.
I am arriving to BKK via an international flight at approx. 13:15pm..My next flight at DMK is at 17:05..do you think I will be able to make it ? I am just super worried about my initial flight being delayed.
Yeah, I think you should have enough time. Let’s say it takes you an hour to get through BKK customs/immigration and then an hour for your transfer to DMK, you would still have a good amount of time. Now if your flights get delayed obviously that could be an issue.
Hello Ryan. Thanks for great article, but I have question if shuttle bus applies only for budget airlines? I’m arriving at DMK airport (by AirAsia Airlines) and on the same day I have flight at BKK airport but by QATAR Airways. I’m also able to take the free bus?
No, it applies to all airlines departing from either airport. This shuttle is just to provide transport for those arriving at one airport and departing from another. If you do not have a flight out of the other airport, you cannot use this shuttle. In your case, you have a flight so you are eligible to use the free shuttle.
Hey Ryan!
Great and helpful information! thank god I read this article before going Bangkok. Saved some money on those transfers for airpor to airpot and bought some beers instead! Cheers man. God bless
Glad to hear it, Omar! Best of luck.
Hey Ryan,
Thank you for your helpful article.
I will meet my father at DMK airport, do you have any ideas for an easy meeting point at the airport?
Unfortunately, he won’t be able to use the internet, so we’re a bit concerned to find each other.
Thanks in advance!
I would recommend meeting at the little restaurant/cafe called THE COFFEE CLUB in Terminal 2. Choose a specific spot to meet and I think everything will work out fine.
Still valid, arrived at Bangkok BKK 21st of February and took the bus for free to DMK.
Thanks, Ryan!
Thanks for sharing your experience, Chris!
If I land at BKK at 18:05 from an international flight, have I enough time to get to DMK for a flight to Krabi at 22:10 leaving with Asia air
That might be a little tight considering the time of day, traffic and the current situation surrounding COVID-19.
Hello Mr Ryan. We like to take the Shuttle Bus from SUV to DMK in the first week of november 2020. Also go back in the first week of december 2020. Do You think, it is still working, even the virus?? Thanks for Your answer. Greetings from Portugal.
Hello brother,
need your help!
i’m Travelling from Indonesia to BKK, then have 4 hours 30 mins gap and next flight to India from DMK.
Q1. if this time is enough for this?
Q2. Do i need to have a Visa just to travel from these two airports?
eagerly looking forward to your response.
Hi!
Can you advise please…
If I arrive at DMK by train from Isaan, can I use the shuttle to Suvarnabhumi to catch my flight on the same day to Dubai? Is that easier and quicker than leaving the train at Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok instead, and then taking a taxi to Suvarnabhumi?
Many thanks in advance.
Thank you for this article and for keeping it updated. I’ll be arriving close to midnight so looks like taxi is my only option. How safe are the taxis at night? I’ll be traveling solo and am a female. Do you happen to have any info on that?
Super helpful. I’m on shuttle from bkk to dmk right now. Current procedure is use exit 3, a guy at a desk to the left will check your boarding pass, give you a sticker and shuttle is parked to the right of the exit.