5 Essential Apps to Download When Visiting or Moving to Bangkok in 2024

Bangkok is a multicultural city with numerous opportunities for schooling, work, and tourism. Whether you’re visiting soon or planning to settle in the city permanently, mobile apps can greatly aid in exploring and living comfortably. These applications serve specific purposes to assist you; there’s one for food delivery, another for navigating the city, transportation options, and learning the local language or accessing a translator tool.

Here are the must-download apps to have on your phone.

Grab

A leading super-app in Southeast Asia, Grab is one of the most widely used applications in Bangkok. Whether you want a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle to your destination or crave food delivered to your doorstep, this app comes in handy. What sets Grab apart is its robust rewards program, allowing users to accumulate points with every transaction. These points can then be redeemed for vouchers, unlocking discounts on transportation and food, making every journey and meal a rewarding experience.

Grab is available for free download on the Google Play Store and the App Store.

QueQ

Imagine being able to queue at your favourite restaurant or coffee shop through your phone. Well, that’s possible with QueQ. Whether you’re just visiting Bangkok or planning to stay for good, this application will come in handy when hunger strikes. It’s simple to use: just book your queue within a 2 km radius of the outlet via the mobile app, then continue enjoying your current activities without worrying about missing your turn. The queue length is updated in real-time within the app. As you approach your queue, you’ll receive an automatic alert, reminding you to return to the shop or restaurant on time.

Queue is available for free download on the Google Play Store and the App Store.

Google Translate

Free to use with over 100 languages available for text translation, Google Translate is the most popular app available that can help you bridge the language barrier. Using text translation, tap to translate, instant camera translation, conversations, and more features, you can easily communicate with locals while you learn how to speak Thai, that is. Aside from the user-friendly interface, you can also use this app through your mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or PC.

Google Translate is available to download on the Google Play Store and App Store.

WhosCall

Scams are common all over the world but cities like Bangkok as especially vulnerable to attacks because of the sheer population. Staying safe is crucial. That’s where WhosCall comes in handy. With this app, you can manage incoming calls and texts effortlessly, thanks to its real-time caller identification and spam-blocking features. By tapping into a vast database of phone numbers, it helps you identify unknown callers and filter out annoying spam calls and texts. Plus, its user-friendly interface makes managing contacts and call logs a breeze, ensuring you’re always in control of your communication. With WhosCall, you can enjoy a safer and more streamlined calling experience, saving you time and avoiding disruptions.

WhosCall is available for free download on the Google Play Store and App Store.

ViaBus

Getting around Bangkok is effortless with the ViaBus app, especially if you want to experience the city like a local. Buses are an integral part of Bangkok’s transportation system, offering a unique perspective and the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. With ViaBus, you can easily plan your bus routes, track real-time arrivals, and optimise your travel itinerary. Whether you’re a visitor exploring the city or a resident commuting to work, this app provides valuable information for smooth and efficient journeys.

ViaBus is available for free download on the Google Play Store and App Store.