How to Use Grab, Bolt, Indrive and More – Step-by-Step
While using apps like Grab or Bolt might be second nature to some, many (myself included) don’t use these services back home. For seniors or anyone who’s not used to smartphone apps for transportation, the process can feel a bit overwhelming, especially in a foreign country with a different language and culture.
Indeed, in my content survey, in which I asked my readers for topics they’d like me to cover, a popular choice was “how to use taxi apps in Thailand”.
This easy guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the difference between regular street taxis and app-based services to exactly how to download, book, and pay for a ride using your phone. By the end, you’ll feel confident getting around like a local.
Public Taxis vs. Ride-Hailing Apps: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Public Street Taxi | Grab | Bolt |
|---|---|---|---|
| How to Book | Hail on the street | Smartphone app | Smartphone app |
| Pricing Type | Meter-based (negotiation common) | Fixed upfront price (based on distance/time) | Mixed: Fixed for most services, Metered for “Taxi” option |
| Price Transparency | High, unless meter is not used! | High – price shown before ride | Medium – estimated fare shown, some options metered |
| Payment Options | Cash only | Cash, card, e-wallet | Cash, card (limited), e-wallet (select) |
| Language Barrier | Often high | Low – app handles location & chat | Low – app handles location & chat |
| Driver Identification | On dashboard, but not always a match | Name, photo, license plate shown | Name, photo, license plate shown |
| GPS Tracking | No | Yes – live map tracking | Yes – live map tracking |
| Vehicle Types | Standard sedan only | Bike, car, SUV, taxi, premium | Economy, car, XL, Comfort, metered taxi |
| Airport Pickup | Yes, but need to queue | Yes – use designated Grab pickup zones | Yes – use designated pickup zones |
| Toll Charges | Paid in cash during ride | Paid in cash during ride | Paid in cash during ride |
Fun fact: Many drivers do both: they pick up street fares and also take ride requests from apps like Grab or Bolt.
Top Ride-Hailing Apps in Thailand
1. Grab (Most popular – like Uber in other countries. Uber was banned in Thailand some years ago)
2. Bolt (Cheaper fares, but not in every city)
3. inDrive (You propose a price, and drivers accept or counter)
These apps are available in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, and more. Smaller towns may have fewer options.
How to Use a Ride-Hailing App – Step-by-Step
This guide uses Grab Taxi as an example, but the process is very similar across all apps.
1. Install the App
- Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
- Search for Grab, Bolt, or inDrive.
- Download and open the app.
2. Create an Account
- Sign up using your phone number or email.
- You may need to verify with an SMS code.
3. Turn on Location Services
- The app needs your GPS to show where you are.
- Make sure to allow location access when prompted.
4. Enter Your Destination
- In the app’s search bar, type where you want to go.
- The app will suggest exact matches or let you drop a pin on the map.
5. Choose a Vehicle Type
Options include:
- JustGrab (standard car)
- GrabBike (motorbike taxi – fast but only for one person)
- GrabTaxi (a public taxi via the app)
- GrabCar Premium (more space and comfort)
Note: Bolt usually has fewer options but is often cheaper.
6. Check the Price
- You’ll see the total cost before you confirm.
- No haggling, no surprises.
7. Book the Ride
- Tap “Book” and wait for a driver to accept.
- You’ll see their name, photo, license plate, car model, and estimated arrival time.
8. Track Your Driver
- Watch your driver’s progress on the map.
- You can also message or call them in the app (usually English-friendly or with auto-translated messages).
9. Payment
- You can pay in cash, or add a card or digital wallet (like TrueMoney or a Thai bank app).
- Tip is optional, and can be done via the app after the ride.
Tips & Things to Know
- Language barrier? No problem – the app handles directions and communication.
- Taxi scams? Less likely when you use the app. You know the price upfront.
- Toll roads? For Grab or Bolt, the passenger usually pays tolls in cash during the ride.
- Airport pick-up? Use the app’s dedicated pickup zones at airports. Look for the signs.
Which App Should You Use?
| App | Best For | Downsides |
|---|---|---|
| Grab | Reliability & availability | Sometimes higher prices |
| Bolt | Cheaper rides | Fewer drivers in some areas |
| inDrive | Name-your-price rides | Can be slow to find a match |
When Ride-Hailing Might Not Work
– In rural areas or remote islands, taxis and drivers may not use apps.
– Late at night or during heavy rain, there may be long wait times.
– If you’re at a busy hotel or mall, it may help to walk to a quieter pickup point.
In a Nutshell
Using ride-hailing apps in Thailand is convenient, beginner-friendly, and something you’re likely to get used to, fast. In fact, ride-hailing is arguably more prevalent and integrated into daily life in Thailand and much of Southeast Asia than in many Western countries. It’s not just a transport option, it’s a lifestyle convenience. With rides being affordable, quick to book, and widely available, these apps have become a natural extension of daily routines for locals and travelers alike.
The rise of ride-hailing apps in Thailand also reflects broader trends: a growing reliance on smartphones, the digital transformation of services, and Thailand’s steady move toward a cashless society – where everything is paid for in a tap!
Tips to Start Planning Your Trip Now:
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I never travel without it. I’ve been using SafetyWing for years. You should too.
Book Your Accommodation
The best hotel rates for Thailand are found at Agoda.
Send Money to Thailand:
If you are sending money to your loved one, or your own Thai bank account, try Wise here. It is fast and cheap. Me and the majority of my readers are using it.
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