Bangkok Nightclubs and the Best Club Nights in Thailand

Bring your passport or, where the club accepts it, a clear photo or copy of it, because Bangkok clubs check that everyone is 20 or over. Some establishments insist on the original passport, and a home driving license may not be accepted. Keeping a photo of your passport on your phone and in your email also helps if police check ID during a late-night inspection. Expect a bag check at the door too.

Smart casual works almost everywhere. Many Bangkok clubs refuse men in flip-flops, shorts, sleeveless tops or sportswear, especially the bigger clubs, hotel establishments and the smarter spots in Thonglor. Clean trainers are usually fine, and jeans with a decent shirt or T-shirt gets you into most places. RCA and the Sukhumvit tourist clubs tend to be more relaxed, but dress up a little and you won't be turned away.

Cover charges are rare in bars but common at big Bangkok clubs on busy nights, and they often include one or two drinks. Tables are usually sold with a minimum spend or a bottle package, priced by the club, the night and how close you sit to the DJ. Weekends and big-name DJ nights cost more. VIP members see what a table really costs at the clubs we review, with the hour each one fills up.

Yes, but it's a different game from gogo bars. Most women in mainstream clubs are there with friends to party, not to work, so normal dating rules apply. Some clubs near the tourist zones also draw freelancers, who will usually make their intentions clear. Read the room, buy a drink, and don't assume.

Police sometimes raid clubs to check licenses, closing times, ID and drugs. The lights come on, the music stops and customers may be asked to show ID or take a urine test on the spot, and a positive result can lead to charges. Stay calm, cooperate and have your ID ready. The simplest protection is never to take drugs in Thailand, whatever anyone offers you on the dance floor.

Sukhumvit around Soi 11 suits a first night: the clubs are tourist-friendly, walkable from the Nana and Asok hotels and draw a mix of tourists, expats and freelancers. RCA, on Royal City Avenue, has bigger clubs, more Thai pop and a young, mostly Thai crowd who come to party with their friends, so it's best with a group or plenty of confidence. RCA is a Grab or taxi ride from Sukhumvit, so plan your ride home.

Generally yes, with a few habits. Note the fire exits when you arrive: Thai nightclubs have a history of deadly fires, so leave any establishment with locked back doors or indoor pyrotechnics. Never get into a fight, because a scuffle with one local can quickly involve his friends and the staff; apologize and walk away. Watch your drink being poured, keep your phone in a front pocket and book a Grab home rather than accepting a lift.

A Thai pub is a club-style establishment aimed at young Thais, with tables instead of a dance floor, live bands or DJs, loud Thai pop and whisky sets shared around the table. Foreigners are welcome, though you'll be one of few and the menu may be in Thai only, so go with Thai friends if you can. Singers are tipped with garlands of folded banknotes sold by the staff. Don't expect bar fines: people come to party with their friends.