First Night in Bangkok: 10 Tips Before You Go Out

Your first night out in Bangkok sets the tone for the whole trip. Ten things worth knowing before you leave the hotel.

1. Carry cash

Most bars are cash only. ATMs charge ฿220 per withdrawal on foreign cards, so take out larger amounts fewer times.

2. Check your bill as it arrives

Bars run a paper tab in a cup on your table. Glance at it each round — honest mistakes happen, and they’re easier to fix at the time.

3. The BTS stops around midnight

Last trains run a little after midnight. After that it’s taxis — insist on the meter or agree a price before getting in.

4. Dress code is real but simple

No singlets or flip-flops in the more polished clubs. A polo, shorts and trainers will get you in anywhere on the bar strips.

5. Pace yourself

Bangkok nights start late and end later. Eat first, alternate water in, and remember the heat dehydrates you faster than you think.