Top 12 Travel Apps for Thailand 2025: Must-Have Downloads Before You Go
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand — especially to Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or the islands — your smartphone is about to become your best travel companion. From translations and transport to food delivery and currency exchange, the right apps can save you time, money, and stress.
Here are the top Travel Apps for Thailand 2025, recommended by real travelers, the Thai tourism board, and local expats—perfect for planning a smooth and unforgettable trip.
🧭 1. Grab (Ride-hailing, Delivery, and More)
The Uber of Southeast Asia, Grab lets you:
- 🚗 Book taxis, bikes, or airport transfers
- 🥡 Order food (GrabFood)
- 📦 Send packages (GrabExpress)
- 💰 Pay with card or cash
Why it’s essential:
Avoid haggling with tuk-tuk drivers or overpriced taxis at tourist areas.
📱 Free on iOS & Android
💬 2. Google Translate (with Thai Offline Language Pack)
Not all locals speak English, especially outside tourist zones.
Why it’s essential:
- Use the camera mode to translate signs and menus
- Speak into the mic for instant translations
- Download Thai offline for use without Wi-Fi
📱 Free, offline support available
🗺️ 3. Google Maps or Maps.me
- Google Maps works well in cities, but has limited detail in national parks and smaller islands.
- Maps.me offers offline maps with hiking trails and bike routes.
Why it’s essential:
For scooter riders and hikers, Maps.me is often more detailed than Google.
📶 4. Thailand eSIM App (or AIS / DTAC App)
If you’re using an eSIM or tourist SIM:
- Thailand eSIM – buy, scan, and activate a prepaid eSIM
- AIS One-2-Call, DTAC, True iService – top up, check data, change plans
Why it’s essential:
Track your balance, manage your data, and top up on the go.
📱 Download based on your provider
🛒 5. Lazada & Shopee (Online Shopping)
If you’re staying long-term or forgot to pack something:
- Lazada = Thailand’s Amazon
- Shopee = Great for electronics, fashion, SIM accessories
Why it’s essential:
Delivery is fast and cheap, even to hotels or hostels. You can even order mosquito repellent, SIM trays, or camera gear.
🍛 6. LINE MAN / Food Panda / Robinhood
For food delivery beyond what Grab offers:
- LINE MAN (Bangkok & Chiang Mai focused)
- FoodPanda (widely used in Phuket)
- Robinhood (Thai startup with low delivery fees)
Why it’s essential:
Delivers local food from places that aren’t even on TripAdvisor.
📷 7. ThaiPhrasebook, Talking Thai, or Simply Learn Thai
If you’re serious about learning Thai or just want polite basics:
- Talking Thai – praised by expats for clear audio & phonetic spelling
- Simply Learn Thai – simple categories like greetings, numbers, travel
- Google Translate is good, but these apps are made for Thai
📱 Paid versions available for better offline features
💱 8. XE Currency or Wise App
For tracking exchange rates or transferring money:
- XE – real-time exchange rate calculator
- Wise (formerly TransferWise) – for bank transfers, card usage, and budgeting
Why it’s essential:
Avoid ATM or cash exchange surprises, especially in high-traffic areas like Patong or the airport.
📆 9. 12Go Asia (Train, Bus, Ferry Booking)
A must for anyone traveling beyond Phuket:
- Book ferry tickets to Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta
- Reserve trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- Buy bus seats to Krabi or Surat Thani
Why it’s essential:
Avoid language barriers and sold-out boats during high season.
📍 10. Klook / GetYourGuide
Both platforms let you:
- Book tours, island hopping, elephant sanctuaries
- Compare prices
- Get e-vouchers with no printing required
Why it’s essential:
More convenient than walking to 5 different tour agents and hoping for honesty.
📲 11. PromptPay / Thai Banking App (Optional for Long-Stayers)
If you’ll be in Thailand for more than a few weeks:
- Register with a Thai bank (e.g. SCB, Bangkok Bank)
- Use PromptPay QR codes to pay at markets and cafes
Why it’s useful:
Nearly all locals pay with QR codes — cash is becoming secondary.
🛂 12. TDAC Thailand (Digital Arrival Card)
Thailand has rolled out the Digital TM6 Immigration Card.
Register online before you arrive and get a QR code for smoother airport processing.
🔗 https://tdac.immigration.go.th
Why it’s essential:
Saves time at immigration and lets you skip the pen-and-paper form.
✅ Final Tips
- Download offline content before you arrive (especially maps and translation packs)
- Use a local SIM or eSIM for smoother app functionality
- Turn on location and notifications for food & ride apps
- Check if apps offer multi-language support (LINE MAN and Robinhood are Thai-first)
