Cheap Flights within Thailand

Traveling around Thailand by plane is faster than ever—and surprisingly affordable. Whether you're escaping to the beaches of Krabi, heading north to Chiang Mai, or island-hopping to Phuket or Koh Samui, budget flights make it easy for expats and long-term visitors to explore the Land of Smiles.

In this guide, we’ll show you where to find cheap domestic flights in Thailand, which budget airlines are best, and insider tips to save even more on your next getaway.

✅ Why Domestic Flights Are Popular in Thailand

• Time-saving: Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes only 1 hour by air, vs 9 hours by car.

• Low fares: Prices can start as low as ฿500–฿900 ($15–$25 USD).

• Easy booking: Most airlines accept international credit cards and offer English-language websites.

• Airports everywhere: Thailand has over 20 regional airports connecting cities, islands, and tourist hubs.

✈️ Budget Airlines to Consider

Here are the top budget airlines flying within Thailand:

🟣 AirAsia Thailand

• The most extensive route network.

• Low fares, frequent promotions.

• Offers add-ons like meals, baggage, seat selection.

🔵 Thai VietJet

• Affordable fares with promo codes.

• Good option for flights to Phuket, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai.

🟡 Nok Air

• Known for colorful bird-themed planes.

• Often includes a free 7kg carry-on and 20kg checked baggage in promo fares.

🔴 Thai Lion Air

• Larger seats compared to others.

• Generous baggage allowance.

• Ideal for families or travelers with luggage.

Tip: Use platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Traveloka to compare all airlines and find flash deals.

💰 Tips for Getting the Best Prices

• Book in advance (2–4 weeks) for the lowest fares.

• Travel midweek—Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have better deals.

• Join mailing lists of airlines to get notified about flash sales.

• Clear cookies or use incognito mode when searching flights.

• Be flexible with airports: flying from Don Mueang (DMK) can be cheaper than Suvarnabhumi (BKK).

📍 Popular Domestic Routes and Sample Prices (2025)

Route

Flight Time

Avg. Price (THB)

Bangkok – Chiang Mai

1h 15m

฿650–฿900

Bangkok – Phuket

1h 25m

฿750–฿1,000

Bangkok – Krabi

1h 20m

฿700–฿1,200

Chiang Mai – Phuket

2h

฿1,200–฿1,700

Bangkok – Udon Thani

1h

฿600–฿900

🧳 Baggage Rules to Watch Out For

Most budget airlines do not include checked baggage in their cheapest fares.

• Carry-on limit: 7 kg (strictly enforced)

• Checked baggage: Buy online before check-in to save money

• Oversized luggage (surfboards, musical instruments): May require special handling fees

Domestic travel by plane in Thailand is affordable, safe, and efficient. With multiple budget airlines offering daily flights between cities and top destinations, there’s no excuse to stay in just one place. Whether you're living in Bangkok or working remotely from Chiang Mai, hopping on a cheap flight for a beach escape or cultural weekend is easier than ever.

📌 Start searching early, compare across platforms, and don’t forget to check baggage rules before booking.