Travelling Is Magical – Series 2

From Sydney to Bangkok: The Perfect Start to Your Thai Adventure

If you ask me personally, this is the routine I would follow every single time I travel from Sydney to Bangkok. In fact, I'm confident that if you live in Sydney and have visited Thailand before, you'd probably do exactly the same.

Before You Leave Sydney

First things first—after packing your checked baggage and carry-on luggage, don't forget the most important step: place all your travel essentials in the main compartment of your Swift Sling.

Your passport, boarding pass, wallet, phone, travel insurance, and other important documents should always be within easy reach. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later when you're moving through the airport.

There are several airlines flying between Sydney and Bangkok, including both direct and connecting flights. My personal favorite is the Thai Airways direct flight, which departs Sydney at around 11:00 AM and arrives in Bangkok at approximately 4:00 PM local time.

I prefer this flight because it allows you to make the most of your arrival day. Since most hotels in Bangkok offer check-in from 2:00 PM onwards, you'll have plenty of time to settle in and still enjoy your first evening in the city.

Arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Welcome to Bangkok!

Once you arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), the first thing you should do is complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) or any current arrival requirements before proceeding to immigration. The process is straightforward and usually takes only a few minutes if you haven't completed it in advance.

Because all your travel essentials are organized inside your Swift Sling, there's no need to search through your luggage for your passport or documents.

Before reaching immigration, you'll notice several counters offering SIM cards from local Thai mobile providers. Personally, I prefer purchasing a physical SIM card rather than an eSIM, but both options work well. Prices are generally similar, so it comes down to personal preference.

Next comes immigration.

If you're lucky and the airport isn't too busy, you'll clear immigration in about 5–10 minutes. During peak travel seasons, however, the wait can easily stretch to an hour or more.

Getting Into the City

After immigration, you'll find several currency exchange counters.

I usually recommend exchanging around AUD $100 into Thai Baht. That gives you enough cash for transport, food, and small purchases during your first day.

If you're travelling light, you can take the Airport Rail Link from the basement level of the airport into Bangkok city.

However, if you're carrying luggage or your hotel is located away from a train station, taking a taxi is usually the most convenient option. A taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok generally costs around AUD $15–20, depending on traffic and your destination.

I also recommend downloading the Grab app before your trip. It's Thailand's most popular ride-hailing service and makes travelling around the city much easier.

The airport has a dedicated taxi pick-up area, and during busy periods you may wait around 15–20 minutes for your driver to arrive.

Choosing the Right Area to Stay

The journey from the airport to your hotel usually takes 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

If you're visiting Bangkok for the first time, I highly recommend staying in the Sukhumvit area.

It's one of the city's most convenient neighborhood’s, offering excellent public transport, shopping malls, restaurants, rooftop bars, night markets, and a wide variety of accommodation to suit every budget.

Your First Evening in Bangkok

Once you've checked into your hotel, don't rush.

Take a shower, change into comfortable clothes, and relax after your flight.

One of my favorite ways to start a Bangkok holiday is by enjoying a traditional Thai massage. After a long international flight, it's the perfect way to unwind.

Afterwards, head to a local Thai restaurant and experience authentic Thai cuisine.

One tip I always give first-time visitors is to be careful with the spice level.

Thai people genuinely enjoy spicy food, and what they consider "a little spicy" can be incredibly hot for many visitors.

If you don't enjoy spicy food, simply ask for "not spicy" or "mild spicy." Restaurant staff are used to serving international traveler’s and are usually happy to adjust the dish for you.

Until Next Time...

I hope you enjoyed Travelling Is Magical – Series 2.

This is just the beginning of my journey through Thailand, and there are many more experiences I'd love to share—from hidden food spots and bustling night markets to temples, local culture, and travel tips that made my trips unforgettable.

If there's a particular topic you'd like me to cover in the next blog, leave a comment and let me know.

I'd love to write about the experiences that interest you most.

Until then...

Travel smarter. Stay organised. Carry Swift Sling.