About Tuk Tuk in Thailand
Tuk-tuks are one of the most popular modes of transportation for Thais and tourists when traveling in Bangkok.
This unique vehicle has become an unofficial icon of Thailand, and if you ever visit the country, you’re bound to come across it by accident. This article will tell you everything you need to know about these popular and iconic minicabs.
What is a tuk-tuk?
A tuk-tuk is a motorized rickshaw with three wheels that travels in the open air. A standard tuk-tuk has a driver’s seat in the front and a passenger bench in the back that can accommodate two to three people.
Modern tuk-tuks are more open and feature fabric paneling to protect passengers from the sun and keep them cool.
Originally, tuk-tuks were called “Samlor” in Thailand, which literally means “three-wheeled vehicle.” The Tuk Tuk’s unique name may also come from the loud engine of the first models. Tuk-tuks have been around in Thailand since the 1960s and remain a popular mode of transportation in major cities such as Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima, where traffic congestion is a major problem. Nowadays, they can be seen everywhere in Thailand, especially in tourist areas.
How much does a tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok cost?
Tuk Tuk fares vary. They cost are little more expensive than taxis, because there are no meter. This means you can usually negotiate the fare (and you should do this before every trip).
For short rides (1 to 2 kilometers) you should pay around 50 baht ($1.50 USD).
How fast can you travel in a tuk-tuk?
Tuk-tuks travel at speeds of 20 to 40 km/h (12 to 24 mph) and use two-stroke engines. They are not designed for stability or speed, but as a touristy, open-art way to explore the city.
Most tuk-tuks aren’t very fast, but their design allows them to maneuver through city streets with ease. If you’re worried about speed, just ask the driver to slow down.
How to drive a Tuk-Tuk safely in Thailand
Tuk-tuk riding is one of the most popular and fun activities for tourists in Thailand. Not only are they cheap, but they also offer a unique experience.
However, tuk-tuks also have some drawbacks and are not the safest travel option. Here are some tips to help you stay safe when using a tuk-tuk in Thailand.
Tuk-tuks have no real safety features
They’re like motorcycles strapped to the cabin of a Ferris wheel. With no seat belts or airbags, riding in a vehicle like this is certainly an adventure (and often a bit dangerous).
Find a good place to hold onto while riding.
Don’t drive a tuk tuk for long distances on crowded roads
Traffic in Bangkok is generally terrible, and tuk-tuks are open vehicles, so sitting in one for hours is neither safe nor healthy. You should only take short trips on local routes and roads that are not too congested.
Additionally, you should not rent a tuk-tuk for long journeys, even when traffic is light, as they are not designed or built for long journeys. Additionally, they are not equipped with safety measures and most drivers and vehicles are uninsured. If you’re also planning a long trip, consider taking a taxi, van or bus.
Don’t take tuk-tuks during the ruling
Thailand’s roads can be dangerous and slippery when it rains, so don’t take a tuk-tuk during the rainy season. Also, most tuk-tuks are convertibles, so you will get wet from the rain.
Don’t crowd too many people into a tuk-tuk
Typically, a tuk-tuk can accommodate two to three people. Even if you see Thais cramming five or six people into a tuk-tuk, don’t try to do so.
Tuk-tuks are light and easy to drive, but not as sturdy and stable as regular cars. If you hang on the edge too much, you can easily fall off when turning. It would be much more comfortable if there were only two or three people in the back seat of the tuk-tuk.
Don’t mess around in a tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are not particularly stable, so do not interfere with the rear of the tuk-tuk by grabbing the sides or pushing each other as the vehicles turn, as this may cause it to tip over.
Just sit back, grab a side and enjoy the ride.
Be careful of theives
When traveling by tuk tuk, beware of thieves who want to catch you off guard. Also ensure that your valuables do not fall out of your hands while the vehicle is in motion.
Negotiate the price with the driver in advance
It’s important to discuss the price with the driver before getting in the car. Some drivers try to deceive tourists by charging them exorbitant prices for a short ride when it should actually be much cheaper.
One way to avoid overcharging is to determine the approximate distance to your destination before boarding a tuk-tuk. Then negotiate the price with the driver before getting on the bus. If the driver can’t agree on a price, walk away and ask someone else.
In most cases, you will find that the driver relents and agrees to the price you suggest. If you’re not sure how much a ride will cost, you can use local travel apps like Grab or Lineman Taxi to find out prices.
Electric Tuk-Tuk:
Bangkok has launched a new electric tuk-tuk service called MuvMi that operates in several areas of Bangkok. The vehicles are 100% electric, affordable and environmentally friendly.
It might not be the best option for sightseeing, but if you need to cycle around the city or quickly transfer to public transportation like the BTS or MRT, the MuvMi might be for you. You can book a ride through their app and pay cashless using a QR code scan.
