CHEAPEST FLIGHT FROM BANGKOK TO VIENTIANE (LAOS)

Let's admit it, flying will never be cheap. and of course this route is NOT going to be a direct flight but it will definitely a faster and more comfortable than the train ride (maybe it won't be as fun, though)

Due to the limited vacation time for my backpacking trip, train rides were never an option for me. I remember scouring the internet for cheap flights althroughout my trip! Much to my dismay, the flights from Bangkok to Vientianne were really really expensive! I remember it being 8,000 pesos-10,000 pesos ($200)!!!!

So if you are in the same situation, here's one route that I discovered.

Here's how:

(the train costs 748 Baht)

NOK AIR is Thailand's budget airline that offers afforable flights all over Thailand. I chose the earliest flight because my Couchsurfing Host had work early in the morning. The flight that I chose was on the expensive side, the other flights costed 740.00 BAHT (which was cheaper than the train!!!!)

1. Book a flight to UDON THANI. The flights offered by Nok Air is surprisingly affordable. It is even 8 Baht cheaper than the train!

2. The departing airport is Don Mueang Airport

3. Upon arrival at Udon Thani, which takes about 50 minutes, look for the van ticketing booth on the right side just before you exit the building. You cannot miss it, there will be signages everywhere.

4. Purchase a ticket to Nong Kai which costs 200 BAHT. They will then give you a coupon which you will present to the van that will take you to Nong Kai.

5. The travel time from Udon Thani to Nong Kai is about 1.5 hours. Nong Kai is the exit point of Thailand bordering Laos. It is also where you will get stamped out of Thailand.

6. Right after you get stamped out, there will be a bus that will take you across the Friendship Bridge (takes 3 minutes) that costs 15 Baht/20 pesos roughly. After crossing the bridge, you have now arrived in Lao Territory and have to get stamped in.

7. After getting your passport stamped, look for the NOK AIR van going to Vientiane. It is free if you book the 'fly and ride' Nok Air service. Travel from border to Vientiane is 40 minutes.