Second class carriages are configured similar to a bus with two seats either side of a central aisle, but with infinitely more legroom and the freedom to get up and go for a stroll. Berths on sleeper carriages in this class are separated by the central aisle and resemble an elongated dormitory.
Third class carriages are typically arranged with bench seats designed to accommodate three passengers. Third class travel is a bargain and enables those on a budget to reach major Thai holiday destinations such as Chiang Mai, Surathani or Hua Hin for a fraction of the cost of flying.
Trains to Chiang Mai or Hat Yai take well in excess of 12 hours to get there. This makes long distance travel by train unsuitable for those who enjoy their creature comforts. Apart from a few select routes around Bangkok, most third class carriages are fan-cooled and can get pretty hot if travelling at midday or in the early afternoon.
A distinct advantage of travelling in third class, or second class non air-conditioned carriages, is that there are always vendors wandering around selling cold drinks and snacks. 12GO is a reliable retailer of tickets for travel in all three classes of Thai trains.
Third class train travel in Thailand
News in Asia
The Thai national rail operator, the State Railway of Thailand, offers passengers a choice of three classes of travel onboard the majority of its trains. First class comes with spacious seating or sleeping berths in private compartments.