Traveling by bus in Thailand

In Thailand, bus accidents are frequent with many of them happening at night. In general, taking a train is much safer than travelling by bus. When taking a train is not possible and a long distance bus is the only means of transportation, opt for a bus which runs during the day. A night bus is the least favorable option and accidents related to drivers falling asleep are an avoidable risk.

When traveling by bus, wherever possible use government busses instead of privately run buses as the safety standards are higher. Keep all valuables at hand and take them with you to your seat. Never stow any valuables in your luggage which goes to the luggage compartment.

A common form of theft in buses looks like this. While driving, a person in the luggage compartment opens all pieces of luggage and looks for valuables. As one expects the luggage to be safe in the compartment no one realizes the theft until unpacking. By that time the bus is far gone.