Chapter 5 of 16 · Arrival
Arriving in Phuket: airport, transfer, money & SIM
What to do the moment you land: how to leave the airport, how to reach your hotel and what it costs, where to change money and get internet. No overpaying, no stress.
Phuket airport
Phuket International Airport is one of Thailand’s busiest. Two terminals: T1 for international flights, T2 for domestic. They’re ~200 m apart, signposted.
How to get from the airport
Four reliable options — from budget to zero-effort.
Comfortable electric buses along the west coast: Nai Thon → Surin → Kamala → Patong → Karon → Kata → Rawai. Hourly. Stop is by the domestic terminal (T2); ~200 m from T1 by the signs.
Best for: day flights, light luggage
A driver meets you with a sign, fixed price, minivan for up to 8. Pick date, time and address in advance. Price depends on the area.
Best for: families, groups, late flights
Grab (~1000 ฿) is officially allowed, pickup at the exit. Bolt / InDrive (~700 ฿) are cheaper but drivers wait off-site (~300 m). They accept foreign numbers and cash. Install the apps before you fly.
Best for: budget and easy
A counter right in the terminal, fixed price — get in and go. No need to deal with apps the minute you land.
Best for: simplest option
PhuketStayPro
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Money & exchange
- Airport rates are poor — change only $50–100 for the taxi.
- Do the main exchange at certified bank booths (e.g. Central Phuket, 4th floor). Original passport required.
- Rates are nearly identical across bank booths on the island.
- Card/crypto-to-baht exchange via ATM QR codes is common — use trusted services only.
SIM & internet
- Airport SIMs cost 20–30% more — cheaper at any 7-Eleven.
- SIM ~50 ฿, unlimited month ~350 ฿, weekly pack ~700 ฿.
- Good coverage: AIS, DTAC, TrueMove H. Passport required.
- eSIM — activate a day before flying and you’re online on arrival.
FAQ
How much is a taxi from Phuket airport?
Grab is about 1000 ฿ ($30), Bolt/InDrive about 700 ฿ ($20), official taxi $50–70, a pre-booked transfer from 1500 ฿. The Phuket Smart Bus is 200 ฿.
How do I get from Phuket airport to my hotel?
Easiest are Grab/Bolt (fixed-price apps), a pre-booked meet-and-greet transfer, or the official taxi counter in the terminal. On a budget, take the Phuket Smart Bus along the west coast.
Where do I exchange money in Phuket?
Airport rates are poor — change only $50–100 for the taxi. Do the main exchange at certified bank booths in the tourist areas (e.g. Central Phuket, 4th floor). Bring your original passport.
Where do I buy a SIM card?
The airport is 20–30% pricier. Cheaper at any 7-Eleven: SIM ~50 ฿, unlimited month ~350 ฿, weekly pack ~700 ฿. Carriers: AIS, DTAC, TrueMove H. Passport required. Or an eSIM activated before you fly.
Where to go next?
The island’s best spots — in the members guide
300+ vetted restaurants, beaches, spas and activities across 5 districts, with a map. Lifetime access.
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