Thai VietJet Review: Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Back
Part of The Digital Nomad City Guide: Where to Stay, Eat and Get Around
What we liked
- Low base fares
- Flies from Suvarnabhumi
- Short, simple flight
What we didn't
- Bags cost extra
- Tight seat pitch
- Fees add up at the airport
Quick take
I flew Thai VietJet between Bangkok Suvarnabhumi and Chiang Mai, booked through Booking.com. For a one-hour domestic hop, it’s cheap and does the job.
Where to book: Thai VietJet Air (Bangkok–Chiang Mai) on the official site (typically About ฿1,000 to 2,500 one way depending on date (roughly $30 to $75)).
What it is
A standard budget carrier: low base fares, paid bags and seats, a tight 3-3 cabin and buy-on-board food. Bangkok flights use Suvarnabhumi.
Where it fits for a remote worker
Moving between Bangkok and Chiang Mai is a classic nomad route: big-city energy, then cheaper, calmer months up north. A one-hour flight beats a ten-hour bus when you have calls the next morning.
“Pre-book the bag, pack light, and budget airlines are a bargain.”
Reggie R.
How it compares
- Thai AirAsia. Similar fares, flies from Don Mueang.
- Bangkok Airways. Bags and lounge included, higher fares.
- Overnight train. Slower, scenic, a travel experience in itself.
Making the most of Chiang Mai
Base yourself near Nimman for cafés and coworking; see Chiang Mai’s food scene and PingPhuPlace. For a side trip, the GreenBus to Chiang Rai is easy. Weigh bags first with a luggage scale.
Price and value
Expect to pay About ฿1,000 to 2,500 one way depending on date (roughly $30 to $75), though prices on the official site move often, so check the current listing before buying. Good value if it fits your needs: cheap and reliable for a short hop. Pre-book bags and it’s hard to beat.
How I scored it
The 4.0-out-of-5 score combines my own use with what buyers report across retailers, weighed on value, build quality and how well it fits a travel and remote-work life. Read the full method on the editorial policy page.
3 tips to get the most out of it
- Add checked bags online, never at the airport.
- Check which Bangkok airport you’re using. Thai VietJet uses Suvarnabhumi.
- Sit on the right flying north. The mountain views are better.
FAQ
Which Bangkok airport?
Suvarnabhumi.
Is food included?
No, it’s buy on board.
How long is the flight?
About an hour.
Who it’s for (and who should skip it)
Good for budget travelers moving between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Skip it if you need lots of luggage. For the bigger picture, the Digital Nomad City Guide puts this alongside where to stay, eat and get around in a new city.
Bottom line
Cheap and reliable for a short hop. Pre-book bags and it’s hard to beat.
Our experience, in combination with what others say.
