First thing that you need to do when you are ready to travel by bus in Thailand is to get padlocks for your suitcases. Don’t be fooled by the good-looking buses (sometimes even double-deckers) they use to transport travelers across the country.
More than in any other country, it was reported that several tourists are still constantly robbed while traveling, without knowing. The ones who “operate” are the driver helpers, who are sitting on the drivers’ side during the ride.
Most of the buses have an internal small door, in front, which leads to the luggage room in the “basement” of the bus. While tourists are enjoying a nap or have their eyes out the windows enjoying the scenery, the helpers go down and open every suitcase, looking for cash, jewelry, and other small items that can fit their pockets.
How to avoid: keep padlocks on your suitcaises at all times.
Another eye-opener while traveling by bus in Thailand is the sticker on your clothes. If you are waiting for a specific ride in a bus terminal, in several places you might get a sticker on your shirt, according to your next destination. The stickers are legal and let the upcoming drivers know who is allowed to get on the bus.
However, quite a few locals try scam tourists by confidently put home-made stickers on their shirts and request an extra fee, usually small, claiming is for environment or that there is a new bus that comes quicker.
How to avoid: if you paid for your ticket, refuse any other offers and don’t pay extra sudden costs.