Tuk-tuk drivers will quote you 500+ baht for rides that should cost 100-150 baht. Here's what you actually should pay: under 2km rides cost 100-150 baht, longer journeys like Khao San to Sukhumvit run 200-300 baht maximum.

Non-negotiable rule: Always agree on the exact price BEFORE getting in. Never, ever assume they'll use a meter (they don't have them). I've seen tourists get quoted 800 baht for Grand Palace to Khao San Road - literally a 10-minute walk worth 150 baht max.

Best pickup spots are outside BTS stations (especially Siam, Asok, Phrom Phong), near major temples, or just flag them down anywhere. They're perfect for that final kilometer to your hotel with luggage when you can't face walking in 35°C heat, but remember they're slower than taxis in heavy traffic and have zero air conditioning.

The sweet spot is short hops between neighborhoods when BTS doesn't go there directly. I use them constantly for Chinatown to Khao San (150 baht), Siam to Jim Thompson House (120 baht), or any temple-hopping route. Just negotiate hard and enjoy the chaos.