Chiang Mai Airport luggage storage

Chiang Mai, a historic city located in Northern Thailand, is a cultural and natural wonderland that’s easily one of the most underrated travel destinations in Asia. The city offers a unique blend of modern amenities and unspoiled traditional Thai culture.

The old city, as it's called, is surrounded by a moat and remnants of the ancient walls, which are a testament to the rich history of the region and Thailand. The historic architecture makes Chiang Mai a must-visit for history buffs. The city is famous for its stunning temples, with Wat Phra That Doi Suthep being a must-visit attraction for religious travelers and history buffs. The city is also a hub for hikers and backpackers, with plenty of companies employing guides to offer tours to the nearby mountains, waterfalls, and even secluded tribal villages in the hills.

Many international travelers will fly into Chiang Mai Airport either directly or through a connection. Once in the city, there is so much to do that most travelers will need a place to store luggage. Fortunately, there are secure luggage storage services with locations throughout Chiang Mai. 

Here’s everything you need to know about luggage storage in Chiang Mai:

About Chiang Mai Airport

Chiang Mai International Airport is a newly modernized and compact airport that serves both domestic and international flights. As Chiang Mai has come into provenance, the airport has become one of the busiest transportation hubs in Southeast Asia. It has an international terminal building with several shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as currency exchange and ATM services. The airport’s terminals (like their domestic departures and domestic arrivals sections) are well-organized and easy to navigate, making it a relatively stress-free experience. There are also premium services for luxury travelers, like the Bangkok Airway Boutique Lounge and Coral Executive Lounge for International departures. There is also a smoking room as well as a prayer room. 

There are luggage storage options at the airport, including a luggage lockers service, but these are mainly useful for travelers with layovers. The luggage storage at Chiang Mai Airport is located near the arrival hall on the first floor. Travelers who need luggage storage in Chiang Mai will want to look into services like Bounce. With a worldwide network of luggage storage locations, Bounce users are able to find storage spots and book online. It’s ideal for travelers on the go.

Top attractions near Chiang Mai Airport 

Here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn't miss when visiting Chiang Mai:

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Mountain luggage storage 

Located on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, this temple is a must-see attraction. Visitors can climb the steep staircase or take a cable car to reach the temple, which features a stunning golden chedi and beautiful views of the city. With so many steps and so much to take in, unburden yourself and drop everything off at a Bounce luggage storage facility before you see the temple.

Night Bazaar luggage storage 

The energy here is incredible! This bustling market is open every evening and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts. Visitors can also sample local street food and enjoy live music and entertainment. Thrifty shoppers will have an absolute field day here without having to worry about blowing their budget. And with all your new purchases, it's best to find luggage storage before you peruse the market.

Elephant Nature Park luggage storage 

One of the things Thailand is most famous for is its elephants, and a visit to Chiang Mai isn't complete without interacting with these iconic animals. The Elephant Nature Park provides a humane and ethical way to appreciate these gentle giants where visitors can observe and feed the elephants as they roam freely in their natural habitat.

Doi Inthanon National Park luggage storage 

Located about two hours outside of Chiang Mai, this park features Thailand's highest mountain, stunning waterfalls, and beautiful nature trails. It's perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The hikes can range from being suitable for beginners to moderately difficult, so make sure to do some research before you start your trek. This is an activity where you’ll want to drop the bags off ahead of time at one of the luggage storage facilities in town. 

Chiang Mai Old City luggage storage  

One of the most surreal experiences you'll have in Chiang Mai, the old city is surrounded by ancient walls and even a moat. It's home to a few ancient temples, museums, and shops. Visitors can spend hours wandering the streets and soaking up the rich history and culture of Chiang Mai.

Transportation options at Chiang Mai Airport

Tuk-tuk

This is an iconic, popular, and affordable way to get around Chiang Mai. Tuk-tuks are small, three-wheeled vehicles that can take you to your destination quickly. While these intrepid drivers are able to pull heavy loads, you’ll still want to find a place to store luggage to make getting around easier. 

Songthaew

These are shared taxi trucks that can hold multiple passengers. Songthaews have set routes and can be flagged down on the street. Because these can get quite crowded, investing in a luggage storage service will go a long way.

Bicycle 

Chiang Mai is a relatively flat city, and cycling is a great way to explore the city at a leisurely pace. Bicycles can be rented from various locations throughout the city.

Motorbike or scooter

A popular choice for tourists who want to explore the city in style. Rental shops are plentiful, but you'll need to wear a helmet and have a valid driver's license. This is (for obvious reasons) the most dangerous method of transport in Chiang Mai and is only recommended for seasoned motorcycle or scooter owners with experience.

Walking

Many of the attractions in Chiang Mai are within walking distance of each other, making it a great city to explore on foot. This is the best way to experience the culture, so if you're trying to get somewhere nearby, this is highly recommended.

Local tips and insider info

• Plan your temple visits ahead of time. Visit the temples early in the morning to avoid crowds and the punishing heat and humidity.
• Take a street food crawl. It's delicious and cheap. The night markets are a great place to sample a variety of dishes.
• Take a guided tour when venturing outside the city. If you want to explore the countryside, consider renting a scooter or taking a guided tour.
• Treat yourself to a massage. Take advantage of the many massage and spa options in the city. Thai massage is a must-try experience, and simple spa treatments are very affordable.
• Plan your visit around Chiang Mai's festivals. Consider visiting during the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals in November, when thousands of lanterns are released into the sky and the river.
• Learn basic Thai phrases. The locals appreciate the effort, and it can help make your experience more enjoyable. At the very least, it's polite.
• Be respectful of the local culture and religious customs. Be respectful when visiting temples and other sacred sites. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

Conclusion

Chiang Mai has many attractions that require a lot of walking, so storing your luggage can save you from exhaustion and discomfort, especially in the brutal heat. Bounce’s service and reliability make it the best luggage storage Chiang Mai has to offer.

While you're in Thailand, consider using the airport to also visit Bangkok. It's too far to drive, but after a short flight to Bangkok Airport, you'll have access to other impressive Thai attractions with convenient luggage storage, like Khao San Road and Hua Lamphong.