BKK Survival GuideThe Expats’ Essential Checklist

BKKScene Edit December 11, 2025

Every travel guide promises the same thing: temples and floating markets. We aren’t writing that. This is the Bangkok survival guide—the essential knowledge you need to function once the honeymoon phase ends and the city starts testing you for sport.

This is for people who live here (or are about to), and would like to keep their dignity, wallet, and sanity intact during a 4pm Sukhumvit monsoon. It’s about fighting traffic, decoding silent rules, and finding the right “I’m fine” expression when you are absolutely not.

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The Transport Game Meter or Nothing

Bangkok traffic is a living entity with personal vendettas. Your first test is the metered taxi. If they refuse the meter, wave them off instantly. No debate, no exceptions. For convenience, Grab and Bolt are king, but the BTS and MRT are your only true escape from gridlock.

SURVIVAL TIP: Under 3km? Use a motorcycle taxi. Keep your knees tucked in and make peace with your past decisions.

THE METER RULE: If they won’t use the meter, step back and flag the next one. At least one driver still believes in the law.

The Culture Code The Silent Language

The biggest hurdle is the unspoken cultural rulebook. Master Mai Pen Rai (it's fine)—it can mean anything from "I forgive you" to "I cannot be bothered." Remember: never touch heads, never point feet at people, and always let others keep face.

SURVIVAL TIP: Hiding your anger is essential. Loud arguments are a massive loss of face and solve absolutely nothing here.

THE SMILE: Bangkok has many. One means thanks, one means sorry, one means awkward. If unsure, smile back and keep moving.

Money & Scams The 220 Baht Tax

Avoid the 220 THB ATM fee by withdrawing larger amounts fewer times. Regarding the Tuk-Tuk Trap: if a driver offers a "cheap tour" to a closed temple that requires stopping at a jewelry shop, it's not sightseeing—it's a sales route with wind.

ATMS: Use a travel card (Wise/Revolut) to minimize conversion fees on top of the non-negotiable bank fee.

Health & Air Quality PM2.5 & Heat

Burning season (Nov–April) brings PM2.5 pollution. Invest in an N95 mask and check AQI apps daily. Also, rehydration isn't a suggestion; it's a requirement. If you stop sweating in 35°C, get to aircon immediately.

PHARMACIES: They are excellent and fast. Many prescription-only meds elsewhere are over-the-counter lifesavers here.

Digital Survival Data & Sanity

Your phone is your armor. Get a local SIM (AIS/True) immediately. You’ll need it for LINE (the default communication tool) and delivery apps like GrabFood or foodpanda. Without data, Bangkok equals chaos.

THE GOLDEN RULE: Keep data topped up. Maps, translations, and mobile payments (PromptPay) are your city fuel.

7-Eleven Etiquette The Bunker

It’s not a store; it’s a survival bunker. From emergency umbrellas to toasted sandwiches that fix every problem, you will be here daily. Learn the phrases "Heat it up" and "No bag" to look like a pro instantly.

THE FINAL BOSS: Queues form fast. Have your payment ready, step aside, and let the next person breathe.

The Survival Navigator Quick Decision Guide

THE CHEAT SHEET:

Trapped in gridlock?
Switch to the BTS/MRT or a moto-taxi.
Need zero transport drama?
Use Grab or Bolt.
Air looking hazy?
Check your AQI app and mask up.
Hungry at 3 AM?
Go to 7-Eleven for a toastie.

FAQ Bangkok Survival Basics

Is Bangkok safe at night?

Generally yes. Stick to lit streets, watch your bag in crowds, and use city sense.

How much Thai do I need?

A few polite phrases go a long way. "Sawatdee", "Khop khun", and "Mai pen rai" are your survival trio.