A layover in Trat is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Trat Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Shared Minivan, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Trat, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Thailand vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Trat is roughly 75 minutes from TDX via Taxi / Shared Minivan. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in THB. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Trat, we’d suggest Wat Buppharam (Wat Mai Trat) and Trat City Pillar Shrine. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Trat. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
If you’d rather stay inside TDX — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Trat Airport Souvenir Shop
- TDX Airport Cafe & Refreshments
Eating Well on a Trat Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Trat: Phloi Phatthana Restaurant and Baan Chuen Chom. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for TDX Airport Mini Cafe or . Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Trat
You have two main options for getting from Trat Airport into town:
- Taxi / Shared Minivan: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Trat might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at TDX may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Trat’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and TDX is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Trat and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at TDX include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Thailand also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Trat exploring the streets or relaxing at TDX, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.