What is the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang?

Booking the Economy fare on SWB Bus in advance and traveling mid-week or during off-peak hours generally secures the lowest prices.

How far in advance should I book for the lowest fare?

It's recommended to book as early as possible, since the cheapest, non-refundable tickets tend to sell out quickly on this route.

Can I do a day trip from Bangkok to Koh Chang by bus?

Yes, it is possible to do a day trip, but the total travel time is around 7 hours each way. Depart early from Bangkok to allow several hours on Koh Chang before returning the same day.

Is the ferry crossing included in the bus ticket?

Yes, the bus ticket includes the ferry transfer from the mainland to Koh Chang, simplifying the journey.

Where does the bus depart from in Bangkok?

The bus departs from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) in Bangkok.

Are return tickets available on the same day?

Return tickets can be booked for the same day, but it's important to confirm the last bus departure times to avoid missing the return trip.

Bangkok to Koh Chang by Bus — From €17

How much are Bangkok to Koh Chang bus tickets?

The cheapest Bangkok to Koh Chang bus tickets start from €17.11 with SWB Bus. The journey takes 7h 20min, with 3 departures per day, from Bangkok to Koh Chang. To get the lowest fare, book in advance and pick off-peak, mid-week departures — the cheapest non-refundable fares sell out first.

Cheapest fare: from €17.11
Journey time: 7h 20min
Frequency: 3 departures per day
Carrier: SWB Bus

About This Route

Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang by bus offers a straightforward option for those interested in a day trip from the capital. The journey takes approximately 7 hours, departing from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and arriving at the ferry pier on Koh Chang. The bus fare starts at €17.11 with SWB Bus as the main carrier. Upon arrival, visitors can spend several hours exploring the island's main town, White Sand Beach, and nearby viewpoints before catching the return bus in the late afternoon or early evening. It's important to plan your departure from Bangkok early in the morning to maximize your time on Koh Chang and ensure you don’t miss the last return bus. The ferry crossing is included in the bus ticket, making the transition seamless. Day trips may be long but allow a good taste of the island's atmosphere without overnight accommodation. Timing your trip carefully is key to balancing travel and sightseeing, especially if you want to avoid rushing and still return to Bangkok the same day.

What to Expect on the Journey

The journey from Bangkok to Koh Chang on the SWB Bus spans approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes, covering a distance through diverse landscapes. Departing from the urban expanse of Bangkok, passengers traverse the central plains of Thailand, witnessing stretches of rice paddies and small villages that punctuate the route. As the bus moves eastward, the scenery gradually shifts to more forested and hilly terrain approaching Trat Province. The approach to Koh Chang Island includes a ferry crossing, offering views of the Gulf of Thailand’s calm waters dotted with smaller islands. Onboard, SWB Bus provides comfortable seating with air conditioning and space for luggage, allowing travelers to relax during the journey. Scheduled three times daily, the service balances convenience with affordability. For those planning day trips, early departures from Bangkok maximize time on Koh Chang, while late afternoon returns are available. The combination of road travel and a ferry segment makes this route an engaging blend of inland and coastal environments.

Route Highlights

Direct bus service from Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal to Koh Chang ferry pier

Ferry crossing included in the bus ticket price

Opportunity for a full day on Koh Chang’s White Sand Beach and local markets

Return journey available same day with late afternoon buses

Scenic views during the ferry crossing

How to Get from Bangkok to Koh Chang

Option	Duration	Price
Best Bus	7h 20m	From €17.11
Driving	6h 30m	€20-30 fuel + tolls

Bus travel on this route is usually preferred for cost efficiency and convenience, especially given ferry coordination and parking limitations on Koh Chang.

Station Information

Bangkok

The SWB Bus departs from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai), located in the eastern part of the city adjacent to the Ekkamai BTS Skytrain station. This makes access straightforward by public transit, with frequent metro and bus connections as well as ample taxis. The terminal features luggage storage facilities, small shops, and food stalls, providing basic amenities for travelers. SWB Bus departures are typically from dedicated platforms towards the rear of the terminal, so arriving early helps secure a smooth boarding process. Ticket counters are onsite for last-minute purchases, but advance booking is advised for the cheapest fares. Seating on the bus is assigned at check-in, and staff are available to assist with luggage handling and passenger inquiries.

Koh Chang

The arrival point in Koh Chang is at the island’s main bus station near the ferry terminal on the mainland side before crossing to the island. From here, passengers transfer to the ferry, which departs regularly to Koh Chang Island. Upon disembarking, local transport options include songthaews (shared pickup trucks), taxis, and motorbike rentals to reach the island’s various beaches and towns. There is no metro or formal bus system on Koh Chang, so arranging transport ahead or at the ferry terminal is recommended. Luggage storage is limited, so travelers should plan accordingly. The proximity of the bus station to the ferry makes coordination simple, but allow extra time for the transfer and ticketing for the ferry crossing.

SWB Bus Ticket Classes

Economyfrom €17.11

Budget

Basic seating with air conditioning
Non-refundable tickets
Standard luggage allowance

Standardfrom €22.50

Standard

More legroom
Flexible ticket changes
Priority boarding

Premiumfrom €30.00

Premium

Extra spacious seats
Onboard refreshments
Additional baggage allowance

How to Book Bangkok to Koh Chang Tickets

Plan Your Travel Dates

Select travel dates during weekdays or off-peak times to increase chances of securing cheaper fares, as weekend services tend to be busier.

Book Online in Advance

Reserve your ticket through the official SWB Bus website or authorized vendors to access the lowest fares, which typically sell out first.

Choose the Economy Fare Class

Selecting the Economy class provides the most affordable option, with basic amenities suitable for budget travelers.

Confirm Departure and Arrival Times

Verify the bus times to coordinate with your plans on Koh Chang, especially if you intend a same-day return.

Print or Download Your Ticket

Ensure you have a printed or electronic copy of your ticket ready for check-in, as this speeds up boarding and guarantees your seat.

Travel Tips

Book tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays
Depart Bangkok early (around 6-7 AM) to maximize time on the island
Carry water and light snacks for the journey
Check the ferry schedule as timings may vary with season and weather
Wear comfortable clothing and bring swimwear if you plan to visit the beach

Luggage & Accessibility

SWB Bus allows one checked bag up to 20 kg and one carry-on per passenger without extra charge. Oversized items or sports equipment require prior approval and may incur additional fees. Bikes are not typically accepted unless disassembled and packed according to carrier rules. The buses are equipped with ramps and reserved seating areas for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring accessibility throughout the journey.

When You Arrive in Koh Chang

Upon arrival in Koh Chang, travelers can head to White Sand Beach for swimming and sunbathing, visit the Klong Plu Waterfall for a nature walk, or explore the fishing village of Bang Bao to see local crafts and seafood markets. Within the first hour, arranging transport from the ferry terminal is essential to reach accommodations or explore sites. Renting a motorbike or taking a songthaew provides flexible access to the island’s main attractions. Visitors should carry cash, as some vendors and transport services do not accept cards.