How to get a Rabbit Card in Bangkok
Bangkok has almost 11 million people in it and sometimes it seems like they’re all going to the same place at the same time. It’s not uncommon to sit in a grab or taxi for 30 minutes and only move a couple of blocks.
Luckily Bangkok has an amazing Sky Train called the BTS that zips over the traffic with ice cold AC when you’re on a way to get an ice cold beer.
You can either buy a single entry ticket or you can buy a Rabbit Card that you keep as part of your badge of Bangkok honor.
What is a Rabbit Card?
The Rabbit Card is an electronic smart card that allows users to conveniently pay for public transportation services in Bangkok.
It operates on a contactless system, making transactions quick and hassle-free.
Originally introduced by the BTS Skytrain system, the Rabbit Card has since expanded its usage to various modes of transportation across the city.
Where to get a Rabbit Card?
The easiest place to get a Rabbit Card is right at the BTS station.
These convenient smart cards, essential for seamless travel on Bangkok’s public transportation network, can be purchased hassle-free at BTS ticket counters.
Alternatively, if you’re venturing underground, MRT Metro Stations also offer Rabbit Card sales at their ticket counters. For those on the go, numerous convenience stores dotted throughout the city, such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, stock Rabbit Cards, providing accessibility around the clock.
Moreover, major shopping centers like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld are equipped with dedicated kiosks or sales counters for Rabbit Cards, ensuring accessibility amid bustling retail environments.
Whether you’re arriving in the city via Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang International Airport, rest assured, Rabbit Cards are readily available at both terminals, streamlining your journey from the moment you touch down in Bangkok.
Do You Need to Bring Your Passport to Buy a Rabbit Card?
Yes! Don’t forget to bring your passport when buying your Rabbit Card. While some might find this invasive, it can actaully help you out if you ever lose your card or need to “prove” that you were or were not in a specific area.
How Much Does a Rabbit Card Cost?
A Rabbit Card technically costs 100 baht. But you will need 200 baht when you first purchase it so that you can top up with 100 baht. Otherwise it’s just a colorful piece of plastic!
How to Top Up a Rabbit Card?
Before you start emptying out the coins in your pocket remember that you need to top up in demoniations of 100. So, 100, 200, 300, etc.
All you need to do is go to the glass booth at the BTS and tell them how much you want to top up with. The BTS attendants all speak some English and will be happy to help.
*Rabbit Card Top Up Tip*
Top up at a BTS that is further away from downtown to avoid long lines and grumpy attendants. For example, On Nut will be a lot less crowded than Nana.
Is it worth it to get a Rabbit Card?
The advantage of using a Rabbit Card over single tickets in Bangkok’s public transportation system is primarily convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Here are some key advantages of using a Rabbit Card:
- Ease of Use: With a Rabbit Card, you don’t need to queue up to buy single tickets every time you travel. Simply tap your card at the entrance gates of BTS Skytrain stations or MRT Metro stations, and you’re good to go. It saves time and hassle, especially during rush hours or when you’re in a hurry.
- Cost Savings: Rabbit Cards often offer discounts or promotional fares compared to single tickets. For frequent travelers, the savings can add up significantly over time. Additionally, many transit systems offer discounted fares for using a Rabbit Card instead of single tickets.
- Reloadable: Rabbit Cards are reloadable, meaning you can top them up with credit whenever needed. This flexibility allows you to manage your travel expenses more efficiently and eliminates the need to carry exact change for single tickets.
- Integration: The Rabbit Card can be used not only on BTS Skytrain and MRT Metro but also on other modes of public transportation such as buses and boats, providing a seamless travel experience across Bangkok’s transit network.
- Special Offers and Rewards: Some Rabbit Card schemes offer special discounts, promotions, or loyalty rewards for frequent users, providing additional value beyond just fare payment.
Wrapping Up
If you’re going to be in Bangkok for more than just a couple of days and live near a BTS station then getting a Rabbit Card is a no brainer.
It’s a tiny 100 baht investment which is more convenient than single tickets and also shows that you are committed to Bangkok and not just some fly-by-night foreigner.