Bangkok has two major airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK). Which one is best for your trip depends on your travel style, airline, budget, and how you plan to get into the city.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience using Don Mueang Airport and compare both options to help you decide.
Airport Locations (Easy to check on Google Maps)
Bangkok’s airports are located on opposite sides of the city:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): East of central Bangkok
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK): North of central Bangkok
👉 Search “Bangkok airports map” on Google Maps to see both airports clearly. It’s a practical way to understand their locations and access routes.
Quick Summary: Who Should Use BKK or DMK
✔ Recommended for Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
- First-time visitors to Bangkok
- Long-haul international flights (Europe, Japan, Middle East, etc.)
- Travelers who value modern facilities
- Those who want to avoid traffic when heading into the city
- International-to-international flight connections
✔ Recommended for Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
- Travelers using low-cost carriers (AirAsia, Nok Air, etc.)
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Those who prefer compact airports
- Travelers who want to reach the city cashless (via SRT + MRT)
- Short-haul flights within Asia
BKK vs DMK: Comparison Table (Understand at a Glance)【Latest Edition】
| Category | Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) | Don Mueang Airport (DMK) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Airlines | Full-service carriers (ANA, JAL, Thai Airways, etc.) | LCCs (AirAsia, Nok Air, etc.) |
| Airport Size | Large, modern | Small, simple |
| Facilities | Extensive (lounges, dining, duty-free) | Basic |
| Access to City | Easy via Airport Rail Link (ARL) | Cashless access via SRT + MRT |
| Cash Needed for City Transport | BTS: Yes / ARL: Yes | BTS: Yes / SRT: No / MRT: No |
| Crowds | Large, can be time-consuming | Compact, short walking distances |
| Airfare | Generally higher | Generally cheaper |
| Best For | Comfort-focused, first-time visitors | Budget travelers, LCC users, cashless travelers |
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Features
✨ 1. Bangkok’s Main International Airport
Handles most long-haul flights from Europe, Japan, and the Middle East. Facilities are modern and well-equipped.
✨ 2. Easy Access to the City
The Airport Rail Link (ARL) helps you avoid traffic and reach central Bangkok efficiently.
✨ 3. Downsides
- The airport is large, and walking distances can be long
- Immigration lines can be crowded
- Airfares are generally higher than DMK
Don Mueang Airport (DMK) Features (Based on Real Experience)
✨ 1. Hub for Low-Cost Carriers
AirAsia and other budget airlines operate here, making it ideal for affordable travel.
✨ 2. Compact and Easy to Navigate
Short distances between check-in and gates make the airport stress-free.
Train Access Is Convenient (With One Important Note)
When I used Don Mueang Airport, I traveled to Sukhumvit Station using only my credit card.
🔹 SRT Red Line → Credit Card OK
🔹 MRT Subway → Credit Card OK
🔹 BTS Skytrain → Cash Required (Important!)
So while you can reach central Bangkok cashless, you’ll need cash if you plan to use the BTS afterward.
Advice for Travelers
- You can reach Sukhumvit Station cashless via SRT + MRT
- But if you transfer to BTS, prepare 100–200 THB in cash
- This helps Western travelers avoid surprises when expecting a fully cashless experience
Asian Traveler Insights: What Western Visitors Often Miss
🔹 1. Heat and Walking Distances Feel Different
BKK is huge, and walking in Bangkok’s humidity can be exhausting—even for Asian travelers.
🔹 2. English Is Widely Spoken at DMK
Check-in, signage, and train stations all supported English. The idea that “DMK lacks English support” is outdated.
🔹 3. DMK Is Surprisingly Convenient for Cashless Travelers
Just remember: BTS still requires cash.
Which Airport Fits Your Travel Style?
✔ Comfort-Focused, First-Time Visitors → BKK
- Modern facilities
- Easy access via ARL
- English-friendly environment
✔ Budget Travelers, LCC Users, Cashless Travelers → DMK
- Cheaper flights
- Compact layout
- Cashless access via SRT + MRT
Final Summary
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is ideal for comfort, long-haul flights, and first-time visitors
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK) is great for budget travel, LCC users, and cashless access to the city
For Western travelers who think “DMK is inconvenient,” my real experience shows that DMK can be surprisingly easy to use—especially with the SRT + MRT combo.