Navigating Bangkok’s bustling streets can be a daunting task for first-time visitors, but luckily, the city’s extensive public transit system offers an efficient and reliable way to get around. One of the easiest and most convenient ways to use this system is by obtaining a Rabbit Card, which streamlines the process of paying for rides on the BTS Skytrain, as well as other transit options. In this article, we’ll explore how to use a Rabbit Card and ensure a smooth journey through the Thai capital.
A Rabbit Card is essentially a prepaid, refillable smart card that allows you to access various modes of transit in Bangkok. Not only can you use it to pay for rides on the BTS Skytrain, but it also works on select buses and ferries, providing a unified solution for your transportation needs. With a discount based on the distance you travel, it’s not only user-friendly, but also wallet-friendly.
Acquiring a Rabbit Card is simple, as they can be purchased at BTS stations or even on board select buses. Once you have your card, using it is as easy as tapping it at the entrance and exit turnstiles at any BTS station. The cost of your trip is automatically deducted from the card’s balance, so all you need to do is ensure the card remains topped up with sufficient funds. In the following sections, we’ll delve into more details on topping up, as well as additional tips for using your Rabbit Card effectively.
Understanding Rabbit Card
What is Rabbit Card
Rabbit Card is a popular contactless payment system used primarily for public transport in Bangkok, Thailand. This handy card is commonly used on the city’s Skytrain (BTS) system, making commuting hassle-free and efficient. The card functions as a prepaid cash card, allowing users to add credits as needed and enjoy seamless transactions without any additional charges.
To use your Rabbit Card, simply tap it on the gate reader at the entrance and listen for the “beep” that signifies successful payment before opening the gate. Similarly, when exiting the station, tap your card again to pay for the cost of your trip, which is automatically deducted from the card’s balance.
Benefits of Rabbit Card
Here are some benefits of using the Rabbit Card in Bangkok’s public transport system:
- Contactless Payment: Rabbit Card’s tap-and-go feature ensures quick and smooth entry or exit from the stations, making it an efficient and convenient option for daily commuters.
- Saves Time: Using the Rabbit Card minimizes the need to queue for single-journey tickets, enabling faster boarding and allowing you to reach your destination more quickly.
- Versatility: Apart from the BTS Skytrain, the Rabbit Card can also be used for certain retail and food & beverage establishments, making it an all-in-one solution for your daily needs.
- Ease of Use: Topping up the card is simple, as it can be done at any BTS Skytrain station, improving overall convenience for travelers.
- Affordability: The Rabbit Card helps save money by offering discounts on specific merchants and allowing you to avoid the fluctuating taxi or tuk-tuk fares.
In conclusion, using a Rabbit Card in Bangkok can greatly enhance your experience while commuting around the city. It not only streamlines your daily travel but also brings additional benefits, such as convenience, versatility, and affordability. So, next time you are in Bangkok, make sure to get a Rabbit Card and enjoy the perks it offers!
Purchasing a Rabbit Card
Where to Buy
To get started with using a Rabbit Card for Bangkok transit, you’ll first need to purchase one. Rabbit cards can be conveniently bought at any BTS station in Bangkok. You can also find them at the Smartbus counter in Phuket Airport or the RTC City Bus counter at Chiang Mai Airport.
If you’re at Suvarnabhumi Airport or in the city, head to the Klook counter at the airport or the Klook counter located inside the CentralWorld shopping mall. Don’t worry about bringing cash to the counter, as you can pay for your Rabbit Card using a variety of payment methods, including cash, debit cards, or major credit cards.
Buying Online
If you prefer to buy your Rabbit Card before arriving in Bangkok, you can purchase a card loaded with 200 Baht stored value through Klook.com. During the online checkout process, select the designated pick-up location (either the Klook counter at Suvarnabhumi Airport or the one at CentralWorld shopping mall). After receiving your order confirmation, make sure to bring it with you to your selected pick-up location.
You can also check other online marketplaces like Lazada for Rabbit card purchases, but we recommend purchasing through Klook to ensure a smooth and reliable transaction.
Once you’ve got your Rabbit Card in hand, you’ll be ready to explore the city using Bangkok’s efficient transit system. Happy travels!
Using the Rabbit Card
Riding the BTS Skytrain
The Rabbit Card is an essential tool to use the public transit system in Bangkok, such as the BTS Skytrain. To obtain one, visit the Rabbit Service Center at BTS Siam Station in Bangkok or BTS ticket offices during working hours. You will need your Rabbit card, passport, and contact details (phone number/email address).
Once you have the card, enter the BTS Skytrain station, and tap it on the turnstile’s card reader. When reaching your destination, tap the card again to exit the station. The fare will be automatically deducted from the card balance.
Airport Rail Link (Suvarnabhumi Airport)
Traveling between Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown Bangkok becomes more convenient using the Airport Rail Link with your Rabbit Card. Proceed to the designated pick-up location (Klook counter at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Klook counter at centralwOrld shopping mall) and present your order confirmation. After receiving your Rabbit Card along with cash-vouchers, you’re set to explore the city. Swipe the card and board the train.
City Line Airport Rail Link
The City Line Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi Airport with eight stations throughout Bangkok. You can use your Rabbit Card to access these trains. Upon entering, the fare will be deducted automatically, making your travel experience quickly and efficiently.
MRT Subway
The Rabbit Card is also accepted on the MRT Subway system in Bangkok. Similar to the BTS Skytrain, use your Rabbit Card to enter and exit the subway stations.
Buses and Smart Bus
The Rabbit Card can be used on public buses and Smart buses in Thailand, making it convenient for tourists who want to visit different provinces. For instance, you can use your card on Smart buses running between the Phuket airport and the island’s beaches. Additionally, the Rabbit Card can be used on the RTC City Bus service in Chiang Mai, covering four routes.
Topping Up and Credit Management
How to Top Up
Topping up your Rabbit Card is a breeze. It can be done at any major retailer, such as MaxValue Supermarket, Starbucks, or McDonald’s, that accepts Rabbit Card as a payment option. Just look for the ‘Top-Up signs’ to locate the top-up point. Additionally, you can top up your Rabbit Card at BTS ticket windows using cash.
Refunds and Deposit
When purchasing a Rabbit Card, you may initially be required to pay a deposit of 300 THB. In some cases, the deposit may be refundable upon returning the Rabbit Card, subject to the card’s current condition.
Make sure to keep track of your card’s balance, as Rabbit Cards can carry a maximum amount of THB 4,000 at any given time. To check your balance, simply tap your card on the gate reader at any BTS station.
Credit Card Payments
While it’s handy to have cash when topping up your Rabbit Card, some places may allow you to use credit cards for top-up transactions.
However, it is always recommended to have cash on hand for a hassle-free experience, especially when using BTS ticket windows to top up.
Discounts and Promotions
Participating Shops and Restaurants
Rabbit Card holders can enjoy discounts and promotions at various participating shops and restaurants throughout Bangkok. For instance, you may save 10-15% on food and beverages at certain establishments, such as for burgers, coffee, or donuts.
Special Privileges
In addition to discounts at shops and restaurants, Rabbit Card users can also sign up for ‘Rabbit Rewards’ by installing the app (available for both iPhone and Android) and linking it to their card. This system provides even more promotions and privileges for cardholders, making it more enticing to use the Rabbit Card for everyday transactions around the city.
Transportation Pass Comparison
The Rabbit Card is primarily used as a top-up card for accessing the BTS transport system in Bangkok. However, it can also be used to pay for the BRT bus service and at other supported merchants throughout Thailand via Rabbit Card terminals. This added versatility makes the Rabbit Card a convenient option for anyone navigating Bangkok’s public transportation and seeking additional discounts and promotions.
