Bangkok, Thailand | Exploring Chatuchak Weekend Market

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Our last stop for Day 3 in Bangkok was the vibrant Chatuchak Weekend Market, known as the world's largest weekend market.

Navigating Chatuchak Weekend Market can be a little tricky, especially if it’s your first time. The market is massive, so it is important to pay attention to the section and Soi numbers to know where you are and where you’re going.

Our main goal was to buy some souvenir for this trip, aside from the usual elephant pants or “kangkeng chang”. A matching set or “terno” usually costs around 200-300 Baht.

I also bought the famous Thai beach tanks, which we usually call a “sando” in the Philippines. These cost around 400 Baht.

I also recently started collecting coffee cups from countries I visited, so our trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market was a perfect opportunity to hunt for a coffee cup to add to my collection. Since the market is divided into different sections, we headed to the ceramics section to look for coffee cups. We found this shop (sorry forgot to get the name).

We ended up buying a few espresso cups, which cost around 150 Baht each.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is massive, and we weren't able to explore the entire place. There were so much to see in this market. Exploring Chatuchak Weekend Market wasn’t easy because of the maze-like small aisles. During our visit, it was more challenging because of the Songkran water fights happening around the area. It was hot, crowded and a little chaotic, which also made the experience memorable.

With this preview, I think, Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must-visit place in Bangkok, especially if you’re into shopping or looking for souvenirs to bring home. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, I recommend to visit this place for the experience.

Here’s the slow-paced Bangkok itinerary.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

The best time to visit Chatuchak Weekend Market is early morning to avoid the crowd and the weather is still pleasant. This also gives you more time to explore before the heat and crowds start to pick up.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO BANGKOK, THAILAND

• Light and loose clothes

• Comfortable footwear

• Backpack

• Camera / gear

• Powerbank

• Universal Adaptor

• Tumbler

• Something to protect from the sun

• Portable fan

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK, THAILAND

coming soon…

HOW TO GET TO CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

The most affordable to way to get to Chatuchak Weekend Market is via MRT subway to Chatuchak Park or take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit Station.

BANGKOK, THAILAND BUDGET AND ITINERARY

The estimated budget for a visit to Chatuchak Weekend Market is around THB 1,000–1,500 per person. This includes transportation, as well as a budget for lunch and snacks and some souvenirs.

• Here are some of the things we bought for reference:

  • Terno – 280 Baht

  • Thai beach tank top (sando) – 400+ Baht

  • Espresso cups - 150 Baht

    NOTE: Prices may change without prior notice.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

• Chatuchak Weekend Market Information

  • Address: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok

• Chatuchak Weekend Market Schedule

  • Friday:  6:00PM to 12:00AM

  • Saturday and Sunday: 9:00AM to 6:00PM

• Bangkok’s weather is hot and humid year-round. We visited in April and it was scorching.

• As the name suggests, Chatuchak Weekend Market is mainly open on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

• Consider traffic when planning your itinerary, especially during rush hour.

• While some shops accept cards or digital payments, it's still better to have enough Thai Baht with you.

• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Thailand.

• Be cautious of scams targeting tourist. This is common in Tuk-tuk tours.

• English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major shopping district.

• Download essential travel apps such as: Google Translate, Google Maps, Grab before your trip.

• Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or eSim in advance. This way you’ll have internet connection as soon as you land.

• Bring a cap, umbrella or other sun protection, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

• Portable fan is a must when exploring Bangkok.

CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET TRAVEL TIPS

• Secure your passport

• Be sure to have a credit card for emergency

• Exploring Bangkok often involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

• Use Grab if you plan on riding a taxi to avoid stress and hassle negotiating with taxi drivers or potential scams.
  Unsure if the street food is clean, try those with queues or busy stalls.

• Weather in Bangkok is hot and humid, bring extra clothes or small towel in case you sweat.

• Need cash? local ATMs accepts international and co-branded ATM card. I personally tried GoTyme. Keep in mind that aside from the exchange rate, there will be a standard access fee.

• Instead of buying bottled water, bring your own reusable tumbler.

• Chatuchak is huge, and there’s a lot to see. If you want to explore more than just a few sections, set aside several hours.

• If you don't plan to explore the entire market, make a list of the things you're looking for. This can save you a lot of time searching through the different sections.

• If you're looking for a specific item, check a few shops first. Prices can vary, and you might find a better deal elsewhere.

• Some shops are open to negotiating, especially if you're buying more than one item.

• The market can be confusing, especially with its many sections and small alleys. Google Maps can help you find your way around and locate nearby shops or exits.

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR PARENTS TRAVELING TO BANGKOK, THAILAND WITH BABIES

• Bring a basic medicine kit recommended by your pediatrician, as familiar medicines may not always be available.

• While strollers are convenient in malls and highly developed areas within Bangkok, exploring other places can be challenging. Best to use a baby carrier instead.

• Portable fan is a necessity when traveling with a baby.

• For breastfeeding moms, don’t forget to bring a cover so you can do it anywhere convenient and comfortable.

• If your baby has started solids but is not yet eating table food, you can buy fresh fruits in local markets and malls.

• Most of the malls in Bangkok (the new ones) have a family-friendly facilities, including nursing rooms, diaper changing stations, and dedicated family restroom.

• Make hydration a priority. Bring plenty of water.

WHAT’S IN MY BAG?

If you want to know more about the cameras, gadgets and travel essentials I use, check out “MY GEAR”

See you on my next adventure…. Peace!