Are tuk-tuks a good way to save money?

No. Tuk-tuks are almost always more expensive than taxis or public transport and often involve high-pressure sales tactics. Stick to the BTS, MRT, or metered taxis.

How do I get from the airport to the city cheaply?

Take the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Phaya Thai station. It costs 45 THB and takes about 30 minutes, avoiding all traffic.

Bangkok on a Budget: A 3-Day Practical Itinerary

Spend your three days focusing on one neighborhood at a time to minimize transport costs and eat strictly from local street food vendors or food courts. Stick to public transit like the BTS Skytrain and river ferries, avoiding taxis and tuk-tuks to keep your daily spending under $50 USD.

Use the MRT and BTS. Do not take taxis. Download the 'ViaBus' app to track local buses and use the BTS/MRT rail systems. A single ride costs between 16 and 60 THB.
Eat at Food Courts. Skip sit-down restaurants. Head to the top floor of malls like Terminal 21 or MBK for 'Pier 21' or 'Food Legends.' You will get a high-quality meal for 50-80 THB.
Visit Free Cultural Sites. Balance expensive paid temples with free ones. Visit Wat Saket (The Golden Mount) for a cheap entry fee (50 THB) rather than the Grand Palace (500 THB) if you are watching your budget.

Are tuk-tuks a good way to save money?: No. Tuk-tuks are almost always more expensive than taxis or public transport and often involve high-pressure sales tactics. Stick to the BTS, MRT, or metered taxis.
How do I get from the airport to the city cheaply?: Take the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) to Phaya Thai station. It costs 45 THB and takes about 30 minutes, avoiding all traffic.