Traffic in Bangkok is notoriously bad and that can certainly make getting around difficult. So, what are you to do when it’s too hot to walk and a taxi will take too long?

Consider a motorbike taxi. They’re a quick way to get around when traveling short distances but aren’t for the faint of heart. Motorbike taxis are fast and can flow through the traffic between jammed car lanes and can be found absolutely everywhere.

Catching a Motorbike taxi

How do you find a motorbike taxi when you need one?

The fastest way to identify a motorbike taxi is to look for an orange vest. If on a main street, you can look for a motorbike taxi stand where you’ll see the bikes and drivers gathered. The drivers at the motorbike stands will almost certainly know the area well.

When on side streets, a motorbike taxi might honk the horn or slow down to see if you want a ride. However, your fare might be a little higher than when catching a ride from the nearby stand.

If you’re good with paying a few baht more, signal that you want a ride with your hand. You can then ask for the price, and maybe negotiate if you have to.

Once the rate has been settled, get on the bike and you’re off!

A 5-minute ride could be about 20-40 baht and it’s not uncommon for a board showing fares to be posted at the motorbike taxi stands.

Ready to Ride?

Motorbike taxis are everywhere and are used daily by local residents. So, if traffic isn’t moving and if you’re feeling brave, a motorbike taxi is likely your fastest option.