Moving to or just visiting Bangkok for an extended period can feel a bit overwhelming at first. The city is a vibrant, bustling metropolis, and while it’s incredibly exciting, navigating daily life, from getting around to ordering food or paying bills, often requires a digital assistant. Forget struggling with language barriers or deciphering complex public transport maps; your smartphone is about to become your best friend.
As a long-time resident, I’ve seen the app landscape evolve dramatically. What used to be a challenge now has a digital solution, making everyday tasks smoother and more convenient. To help you settle in and thrive, I’ve compiled a definitive list of the 15 apps for living in Bangkok that I personally rely on daily. Consider this your essential digital toolkit for navigating the City of Angels in 2025.
Why Trust This Guide?
Having called Bangkok home for over a decade, my smartphone has evolved into my ultimate survival kit. From the early days of fumbling with paper maps to now seamlessly ordering groceries or hailing a ride with a few taps, I’ve personally used and abused almost every app designed for life here. I’ve endured the dreaded long-haul taxi negotiations, figured out the quickest routes, and learned which platforms offer the best deals. This isn’t just a generic list; it’s a curated selection based on genuine, daily use and the insights I share with countless expats I assist in settling into Bangkok. I understand the unique challenges of expat life and which digital tools genuinely make a difference.
Essential Apps for Getting Around Bangkok
Bangkok’s traffic is legendary, but with the right apps, you can conquer the commute. These are some of the most crucial apps for living in Bangkok when it comes to transportation.
Grab: Your Go-To for Ride-Hailing & More
Grab is undeniably the most indispensable app in Thailand. It’s not just for ride-hailing (cars, taxis, motorbikes); it also offers food delivery, grocery shopping, and parcel delivery services. The convenience of seeing your fare upfront and paying digitally makes it a stress-free option.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/th/app/grab-taxi-food-delivery-more/id647268330
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.grabtaxi.passenger&hl=en_US
Website: https://www.grab.com/th/en/
Bolt: A Cheaper Alternative for Rides
While Grab dominates, Bolt has emerged as a strong competitor, often offering slightly lower fares for rides. It’s wise to have both installed, especially during peak hours or when comparing prices for the best deal.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/th/app/bolt-request-a-ride/id675033630
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ee.mtakso.client&hl=en_US
Website: https://bolt.eu/en-th/
ViaBus: Real-Time Bus Tracking
Don’t let Bangkok’s bus system intimidate you. ViaBus provides real-time tracking of buses, estimated arrival times, and route planning. It’s a game-changer for those looking to use this incredibly affordable mode of transport.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/th/app/viabus/id1074208600
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.indyzalab.transitia&hl=en_US
Website: https://www.viabus.co/
Google Maps: Your Navigation Navigator
While obvious, Google Maps is indispensable for living in Bangkok. Its public transport option is excellent for navigating the BTS, MRT, and even boats. It offers walking directions, traffic estimates, and business information, making it a crucial navigation tool.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-maps/id585027354
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps&hl=en_US
Website: https://www.google.com/maps
Food & Grocery Delivery: Satisfying Your Cravings
Bangkok’s food scene is legendary, and these apps bring it straight to your door. They are essential apps for living in Bangkok for both convenience and exploring new flavors.
Robinhood: The Local Food Champion
Robinhood has quickly become a major force in Bangkok’s food delivery scene. What I really appreciate about this app, which was started by a local bank, is its focus on supporting smaller, local vendors with lower commission fees. This means you can often find unique, family-run restaurants here that aren’t on other platforms. The app is slick, the delivery is reliable, and it’s a great way to explore the city’s grassroots food scene from your couch.
Website: https://www.robinhood.co.th/
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/th/app/robinhood-food-delivery-app/id1526791835
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=th.in.robinhood
LINE MAN: The Local Favorite
LINE MAN is unique because it integrates directly with the popular LINE messaging app. It offers food delivery, grocery shopping, messenger services, and even taxi services. Many local restaurants use LINE MAN exclusively.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/line-man-food-delivery-more/id1076238296
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.linecorp.linemanth&hl=en_US
Website: https://www.lineman.me/
HappyFresh: Fresh Groceries Delivered
For dedicated grocery shopping, HappyFresh connects you with various supermarkets (like Big C, Gourmet Market) and allows you to have fresh produce, household items, and more delivered directly to your home. It’s a lifesaver for busy individuals and families.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/happyfresh-grocery-delivery/id957304056
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.happyfresh.android&hl=en_US
Website: https://www.happyfresh.com/
Communication & Translation: Bridging the Gap
Effective communication is key to enjoying your time in Bangkok.
LINE: The Undisputed King of Messaging
If you live in Thailand, you NEED LINE. It’s the primary messaging app, used by everyone from friends and family to businesses, landlords, and even government agencies. You’ll quickly find yourself using it for almost everything. It’s one of the most vital apps for living in Bangkok.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/th/app/line/id443904275
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.naver.line.android&hl=en
Website: https://line.me/en/
Google Translate: Instant Language Help
While many Thais speak English, especially in tourist areas, Google Translate is invaluable for reading signs, menus, or having basic conversations. The camera translation feature is incredibly useful for navigating unfamiliar text.
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-translate/id414706506
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.translate&hl=en
Website: https://translate.google.com/
Finance & Payments: Going Cashless
Thailand is rapidly moving towards a cashless society, and mobile banking apps are essential for managing your money.
Mobile Banking Apps (e.g., SCB Easy, K PLUS): Local Banking
Once you set up a Thai bank account, downloading your bank’s mobile app is critical. These apps allow you to transfer money, pay bills, scan QR codes for payments (ubiquitous in Thailand), and manage your finances on the go.
SCB Easy (Siam Commercial Bank)
Download on Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.scb.phone
Download on App Store (iOS): https://apps.apple.com/th/app/scb-easy/id568388474
K PLUS (Kasikornbank)
Download on Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kasikorn.retail.mbanking.wap
Download on App Store (iOS): https://apps.apple.com/th/app/k-plus/id361170631
TrueMoney Wallet: A Popular E-Wallet
TrueMoney Wallet is one of Thailand’s most widely accepted e-wallets, especially popular at places like 7-Eleven, True Coffee, and many retail outlets. You can top it up via your bank, at convenience stores, or use QR codes to make seamless cashless transactions.
TrueMoney Wallet on App Store (iOS – Thailand): https://itunes.apple.com/th/app/id663885752
TrueMoney Wallet on Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=th.co.truemoney.wallet
Official Website: https://www.truemoney.com/
Highlights of TrueMoney Wallet
- Foreigner-Friendly: Works even without a Thai bank account. Cash top-ups at kiosks or convenience stores make it easy for expats and digital nomads.
- Top-Up Convenience: Add funds at 7-Eleven, True shops, Lotus’s, kiosks, ATMs, or by linking a Thai bank account.
- Widespread Acceptance: Use it at thousands of merchants across Thailand and in many overseas locations.
- Virtual Mastercard: Provides a prepaid virtual Mastercard for online shopping and digital services.
- Security Features: Face verification, encryption, real-time monitoring, and the ability to freeze your account instantly.
- Digital Lending Options: Services like Pay Next, Pay Next Extra, and KKP Cash Now allow flexible spending and credit access.
Wongnai: Food Discovery & Reviews
Wongnai is Thailand’s version of Yelp or TripAdvisor for food. It’s perfect for discovering restaurants, reading reviews, checking menus, and finding popular local spots. Many restaurants also offer special deals through the app.
Wongnai on Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wongnai.android
Official Website: https://www.wongnai.com/
Wongnai on App Store (iOS – Thailand): https://apps.apple.com/th/app/id345970222
Opening a Bank Account in Bangkok: A Step-by-Step Guide
Our 2025 guide makes it simple, covering the best banks for expats, the exact documents you’ll need, and insider tips for a smooth process.
Netflix / Disney+ Hotstar / Viu: Entertainment Hubs
For downtime and entertainment, having access to streaming services is key. Netflix is global, while Disney+ Hotstar offers a mix of Disney content and local/regional films. Viu is excellent for Asian dramas and shows.
- Netflix
- Disney+ Hotstar
- Viu
VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN): For Access & Security
A Virtual Private Network is crucial for expats in Thailand. It allows you to access geo-restricted content from your home country, ensures your online security on public Wi-Fi, and helps maintain online privacy. While not directly a “Bangkok app,” it’s essential for anyone living here.While not directly a “Bangkok app,” it’s essential for anyone living here.
VPN (ExpressVPN, NordVPN): For Access & Security
A Virtual Private Network is crucial for expats in Thailand. It allows you to access geo-restricted content from your home country, ensures your online security on public Wi-Fi, and helps maintain online privacy.
ExpressVPN
App Store (iOS): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/expressvpn-vpn-proxy-secure/id886492891
Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.expressvpn.vpn
NordVPN
App Store (iOS): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nordvpn-vpn-proxy-secure-vpn/id905953485
Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nordvpn.android
Local Services: Mastering Daily Life
Rounding out our list are apps that help with local services and managing your utilities.
MEGAA: Electricity Authority App
Managing your electricity bill is straightforward with the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) app (called MEGAA). You can check your consumption, view bills, and make payments directly, saving you trips to the convenience store or bank.
App Store (iOS): https://apps.apple.com/th/app/megaa/id1453295984
Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mea.onlineservice
Official Website: https://www.mea.or.th/
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Thai phone number to use these apps?
Can I pay for everything with these apps, or do I still need cash?
Are these apps available in English?
What's the best way to get a SIM card and phone plan in Bangkok?
Are there any apps for finding apartments or condos?
References
For broader information on navigating life in Thailand and understanding digital trends, consult these reliable sources:
Thailand Tourism Authority (TAT): The official source for travel and tourism information in Thailand, often providing practical tips for visitors and residents. https://www.tourismthailand.org/
Bangkok Post: One of Thailand’s leading English-language newspapers, offering news and features on local life, technology, and business, including insights into digital adoption. https://www.bangkokpost.com/
