How to Use the Line App to Pay for BTS and Food Delivery in Bangkok
When I first traveled to Thailand in 2017, my relatives asked if I had the Line app. Back then, I didn’t see the need for it and preferred using Facebook Messenger. But after moving to Bangkok in January 2024, I finally gave in and downloaded Line—mostly to snag a 10% discount at Treasure Factory, my favorite thrift store here.
Little did I know that Line would become one of the most valuable tools on my phone! Besides offering deals at various stores, I learned that Line could connect directly with the BTS Rabbit Card, Bangkok’s primary card for the BTS Skytrain. By linking my international credit cards to Line, I could seamlessly use it for food delivery, transportation, and even paying for rides on the BTS. Here’s how you can set it up to make your life in Bangkok much easier.
Why Use Line in Thailand?
Line isn’t just a messaging app; it’s a one-stop shop for exclusive store discounts, transportation payments, and food delivery services. Many stores and restaurants even offer discounts for adding them on Line! Plus, connecting your international credit cards to the app makes transactions straightforward, with no extra fees—a big win for travelers and expats.
How to Link Your BTS Rabbit Card to the Line App
The BTS Rabbit Card is essential for Bangkok’s public transit system. Here’s how you can link it to your Line app to make things even easier:
1. Get a BTS Rabbit Card:
• Go to any BTS station, bring your passport or Thai ID, and 100 baht in cash for the card fee.
• Add extra cash to top up the card with your desired balance.
2. Link Your BTS Card to Line:
• Head to a BTS station ticket counter with your BTS Rabbit Card and ID.
• Ask the BTS agent to link your Rabbit Card to your Line app. They’ll handle the linking for you—just be sure to have your passport or ID handy.
3. Add Your International Credit or Debit Card to Line:
• Open the Line app and navigate Settings > Wallet > Add a Card.
• I could add my Chase Sapphire (Visa) and Capital One (Mastercard) without any issues, and there are no credit card fees when using Line Payment.
• Once added, you can select which card to use for BTS rides, food delivery, and even shopping at many stores that accept Line Pay.
Why Link Your BTS Rabbit Card to Line?
By linking your BTS Rabbit Card to Line, you get the flexibility to pay with your international credit card without any additional fees. Now, I can tap my BTS Rabbit Card, and the payment is charged to my credit card through Line, which is incredibly convenient.
It’s worth noting that you can’t top up the Rabbit Card with a credit card directly at BTS counters. They only accept cash for this, and their credit card terminals are solely for purchasing single-day passes (if you’re buying at least 10).
Using Your BTS Rabbit Card Beyond the Train
Another great perk? You can use your BTS Rabbit Card at Turtle convenience stores inside BTS stations. So, if you need a quick snack, drink, or other essentials, you can pay directly with your Rabbit Card.
Using Line for Food and Grocery Delivery
With Line, ordering food and groceries is a breeze. You can connect your favorite credit card or bank account to pay for Lineman delivery services, which include food delivery from a massive variety of restaurants and grocery delivery from local supermarkets. Plus, Line often has promo codes that offer discounts on these services.
Final Thoughts
If you plan to stay in Bangkok, you must download the Line app and get a BTS Rabbit Card. Link your cards to Line, and you’ll have a more effortless, convenient experience for everyday errands, transportation, and dining.
Pro Tip: You'll need a Thai phone number to set up Line and Line Pay. Upon arrival, you can easily get a Thai SIM card at the airport or any convenience store.
Has anyone else successfully used their credit card directly at a BTS counter? I’d love to hear your experiences and any other tips for making the most of the BTS and Line Pay here in Bangkok!
