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How to use Grab and Bolt taxi apps: from your first ride to payment

In Thailand, enter your destination and vehicle type in Grab or Bolt, check the fare and pickup point shown, then book. Grab lists cash, card, and GrabPay; Bolt supports cash or in-app payment depending on the area, so check the available options in the app before booking.

At a glance

How do I take my first ride with Grab or Bolt?

When booking for the first time, check that the app’s map pin matches where you are. Choose a building entrance or designated pickup point. Search for your destination on the map and confirm the address and place name before choosing a vehicle.

  1. Enter your destination in the app

    Confirm your destination and pickup point, then check the vehicle types and estimated fares shown in the app.

  2. Check your payment method

    Grab lists cash, credit cards, debit cards, and GrabPay. Depending on local availability, Bolt lets you choose cash or in-app payment.

  3. Check the vehicle details after booking

    Check the vehicle and driver details in the app, then meet them at your selected pickup point.

  4. Pay using your selected method after you arrive

    Before getting in, confirm whether you’ll pay in the app or with cash.

How do I compare Grab and Bolt fares?

For a useful comparison, enter the same pickup and destination at the same time. Grab says fares can vary depending on supply and demand, distance, and live traffic conditions.

ComparisonGrabBolt
Checking faresCheck the fare in the app just before departure.Check the estimated fare in the app for your destination and vehicle type.
Fare differenceThere is no fixed rate difference that applies across Thailand.Compare the same route at the same time.
PaymentCash, credit cards, debit cards, and GrabPay are listed.Cash or in-app payment may be available, depending on the area.

How do I add an overseas card and pay with it?

When adding a card to Grab, enter the card number, expiry date, CVV, and issuing country. You may be asked for a one-time password (OTP) from your issuing bank.

  1. Enter your card details

    In the app’s payment methods menu, enter your card number, expiry date, CVV, and issuing country.

  2. Respond to an OTP request

    If your issuing bank requires an OTP, follow the instructions to verify your card.

  3. Choose a payment method with fees in mind

    Grab says GrabPay supports most cards issued overseas, but payments with overseas-issued cards incur a 3% fee, with a minimum of 1 baht.

Where do I go for Grab pickup at the airport?

Designated pickup points vary by airport, so check the pickup location in the app and follow the signs on site. At Suvarnabhumi Airport, set the Grab booth as your pickup point when booking.

AirportGrab pickup location
Suvarnabhumi AirportGrab booth at Gate 4 of Passenger Terminal 1
Don Mueang AirportGrab service counter at Gate 14 on Level 1 of Domestic Terminal 2
Phuket AirportDesignated area outside between the domestic and international terminals, by the green Grab tent or signage

What to do in these situations

  1. When Bolt cars don’t show up in your area

    Check ride availability for the city you’re visiting in the app, and use the app that shows available cars.

  2. When heading home on Friday or Saturday night

    Check fares on both apps just before you leave. Grab says ride requests are 20% higher on Friday and Saturday nights than on weekday nights, with nighttime demand peaking between 9 p.m. and midnight.

  3. When heading home from nightlife spots, bars, or pubs

    Grab lets you schedule a ride from 90 days ahead until 75 minutes before your preferred pickup time. Bolt lists bookings up to 90 days in advance. Check service areas and booking options in the app.

  4. For short trips by motorcycle taxi

    GrabBike (Win) shows a fixed distance-based fare in the app before you book. Listed service areas are Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, and Samut Prakan.

  5. When taking a metered taxi or tuk-tuk

    Make sure the meter is running before you set off in a metered taxi. Agree on the destination and total fare before leaving in a tuk-tuk.

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Pre-departure checklist

FAQ

Which app is cheaper, Grab or Bolt?

There is no fixed fare difference across Thailand. Enter the same route at the same time and compare the estimates in the apps.

Which cities in Thailand have Bolt?

Availability varies by city, so check the app for the area you’re visiting.

Is there a fee for paying with an overseas-issued card on Grab?

Grab lists a fee of 3% of the payment amount, with a minimum of 1 baht, for payments made with cards issued overseas.

Where do I catch Grab at Suvarnabhumi Airport?

Set the Grab booth at Gate 4 of Passenger Terminal 1 as your pickup point.

Where in Thailand can I use GrabBike?

The listed service areas are Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, and Samut Prakan. Check the fixed distance-based fare shown in the app before booking.

Official sources & check dates

More practical info

Site updated: 2026-10-28