12Go Review 2025: Your Complete Guide to Hassle-Free Travel Bookings in Asia

Introduction to 12Go

12Go Asia Pte., Ltd., commonly known as 12Go, is a Singapore-based travel technology company that has revolutionized how travelers book transportation in Southeast Asia and beyond. Founded in 2014, 12Go connects passengers to a wide range of travel options—including trains, buses, ferries, flights, and private transfers—through a single, easy-to-use online platform.

The company’s mission is simple: make booking transport across multiple countries fast, transparent, and convenient. By partnering with hundreds of local and international operators, 12Go allows travelers to compare schedules, prices, and vehicle types, all in one place. Whether you’re planning a scenic train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, a ferry ride to the Thai islands, or a cross-border trip into Vietnam, 12Go offers a streamlined booking process and instant e-tickets to simplify your journey.

Operating primarily across Southeast Asia—covering destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines—12Go has also expanded to serve routes in India, China, Japan, and even parts of Europe and Australia. This global reach, combined with an intuitive website and mobile app, has made 12Go a trusted choice for millions of travelers seeking reliable and hassle-free transportation.

By integrating multiple modes of travel into one platform, 12Go eliminates the need to visit multiple websites, stand in long ticket lines, or navigate language barriers. It’s a modern solution for a region where transport booking has historically been fragmented and offline.

Coverage & Destinations

One of the key strengths of 12Go is its extensive geographical coverage. While the company is headquartered in Singapore, its booking network spans thousands of routes across Asia and select destinations beyond.

Primary Regions Served

12Go is especially popular in Southeast Asia, where it connects major cities, rural towns, and popular tourist hubs. The platform covers routes in:

• Thailand – Including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and the Thai islands.
• Vietnam – Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Ha Long Bay.
• Cambodia – Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and cross-border trips to Thailand and Vietnam.
• Laos – Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and connections to Thailand and Vietnam.
• Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, and Johor Bahru.
• Singapore – Direct transfers and cross-border travel to Malaysia and Thailand.
• Philippines – Domestic flights, ferries, and bus connections to tourist spots.
• Myanmar – Key routes including Yangon, Mandalay, and Bagan.

Extended Coverage

Beyond Southeast Asia, 12Go has expanded to include transport options in:

• India – Train, bus, and flight bookings for major cities and tourist routes.
• China – High-speed train tickets and intercity transport.
• Japan & South Korea – Select train and bus services.
• Indonesia – Domestic flights and ferry services between islands.
• Australia & Europe – Limited but growing coverage for international travelers.

Multi-Modal Connections

A standout feature of 12Go is the ability to book multi-modal journeys—for example, combining a train ride with a ferry or bus in a single transaction. This makes it ideal for island-hopping, cross-border trips, or reaching remote areas where no single transport service exists.

By consolidating such a wide range of destinations, 12Go saves travelers time and effort, replacing multiple in-person ticket purchases with a single, secure online booking.

Transportation Options

One of the main reasons travelers choose 12Go is the variety of transportation methods available in one platform. Whether you’re looking for the most budget-friendly ride or a premium travel experience, 12Go offers multiple options to suit different needs, preferences, and budgets.

1. Trains

12Go partners with national railway companies to offer train tickets for both short and long-distance routes. In countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and India, trains are a scenic and cost-effective way to travel. Options often include:

• Economy seats for budget travel.
• Sleeper cabins for overnight journeys.
• First-class compartments for extra comfort.

2. Buses & Coaches

Buses remain one of the most common forms of transportation in Southeast Asia. Through 12Go, travelers can book:

• Standard buses for everyday travel.
• VIP and luxury coaches with wider seats and extra amenities.
• Mini-buses for shorter routes or smaller groups.

3. Ferries & Boats

For island destinations like Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, or Bali, 12Go offers ferry bookings that can be combined with other transport modes. Options include:

• High-speed ferries for faster travel.
• Standard boats for scenic, budget-friendly trips.

4. Flights

12Go also lists domestic and regional flights, allowing you to compare airlines and book directly alongside other transport options. This is especially useful for travelers who need to save time or reach remote destinations quickly.

5. Private Transfers & Taxis

For door-to-door convenience, 12Go offers:

• Private cars or vans for individuals, families, or small groups.
• Airport transfers to and from hotels or tourist hubs.
• Luxury vehicles for a more premium experience.

6. Multi-Modal Journeys

A standout feature of 12Go is the ability to book combined transport tickets—for example, a bus plus a ferry, or a train followed by a taxi. This saves time and eliminates the need for multiple separate bookings.

By offering this wide variety of transportation options, 12Go gives travelers the flexibility to customize their journeys and choose what best fits their travel style and budget.

Booking Experience & Website/App Usability

Booking a trip with 12Go is designed to be simple and straightforward, whether you’re using the website or the mobile app. The platform’s clean interface and intuitive design make it easy for travelers to find routes, compare prices, and confirm tickets in just a few steps.

Step-by-Step Booking Process

1. Search Your Route – Enter your departure and arrival points, travel dates, and number of passengers.
2. Compare Options – Browse available transport modes, departure times, travel durations, and ticket prices.
3. Select Your Preference – Choose based on comfort level, travel time, or cost.
4. Enter Passenger Details – Provide basic information such as name and contact details.
5. Make Payment – Pay securely using credit cards, PayPal, local bank transfers, or digital wallets.
6. Receive Confirmation – Get your e-ticket instantly or within the operator’s processing time.

Website Features

• User-friendly interface that works well on desktop and mobile browsers.
• Filter and sort tools to quickly find the best transport option based on time, price, or operator.
• Multiple language support, making it accessible to travelers from around the world.

Mobile App Usability

Available for both Android and iOS, the 12Go app offers:

• On-the-go booking without needing a computer.
• Saved booking history for easy reference.
• Mobile e-tickets that can be shown directly from your phone—no printing required.
• Push notifications for booking confirmations and travel reminders.

Customer Support

If you encounter issues, 12Go provides 24/7 support via live chat and email. The support team is multilingual, which is especially helpful for international travelers.

By keeping the booking process streamlined and accessible across devices, 12Go ensures that travelers can plan their journeys quickly and confidently, no matter where they are.

Pricing & Payment Options

12Go offers competitive pricing for a wide range of transportation options, making it easy for travelers to compare costs and choose a service that fits their budget. While prices can vary depending on the route, season, and transport mode, the platform’s transparent pricing system ensures you know exactly what you’re paying before confirming your booking.

Pricing Structure

• Varies by Transport Type – Economy buses or trains are typically cheaper than high-speed trains, VIP coaches, or flights.
• Route-Based Pricing – Short domestic trips are more affordable, while long-distance or cross-border journeys cost more.
• Seasonal Differences – Peak travel seasons such as holidays may see higher fares due to demand.
• Booking in Advance – Prices may be lower if you book weeks ahead, especially for trains and ferries.

Example Price Ranges:

• Bangkok → Chiang Mai (VIP Bus): 500–1,500 THB (~$15–$45)
• Singapore → Kuala Lumpur (Bus): 30–60 SGD (~$22–$45)
• Bali → Lombok (Ferry): 250,000–500,000 IDR (~$16–$33)

(Prices are approximate and may change based on travel dates and operators.)

Payment Options

12Go supports a wide variety of secure payment methods, making it convenient for travelers from different countries. These include:

• Credit & Debit Cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and UnionPay.
• E-Wallets – PayPal, Alipay, and other popular regional wallets.
• Local Payment Methods – Bank transfers and QR-based payment systems like PromptPay in Thailand.
• Currency Flexibility – Payments can be made in multiple currencies, which are converted at the time of booking.

Why Pricing is Transparent

All prices on 12Go include applicable taxes and fees upfront, so you won’t encounter unexpected charges later. Any extra costs, such as baggage fees or pickup services, are clearly stated before checkout.

By offering flexible payment options and clear, upfront pricing, 12Go makes it easy for travelers to budget their trips and pay in the way that suits them best.

Customer Reviews & Reputation

The reputation of 12Go is built on its convenience, wide coverage, and ability to connect travelers with reliable transport operators across Asia. Like most booking platforms, 12Go receives a mix of positive and critical reviews, reflecting real-world travel experiences.

Positive Feedback

Many travelers praise 12Go for:

• Ease of Use – The website and app are simple to navigate, even for first-time users.
• Convenience – The ability to compare and book trains, buses, ferries, and flights in one place.
• Time-Saving – Avoiding long lines at stations or ferry terminals by booking in advance.
• Multi-Language Support – Useful for international travelers who don’t speak the local language.

On review platforms like Trustpilot, 12Go has earned a rating around 3.5 out of 5 stars, with many customers highlighting smooth bookings and timely e-ticket delivery.

Constructive Criticism

Some users have raised concerns about:

• Price Markups – Tickets may cost slightly more than buying directly from operators.
• Delayed Confirmations – Certain bookings, especially trains, can take up to 24 hours for confirmation.
• Operator-Related Issues – Delays or cancellations caused by local transport providers, which are sometimes beyond 12Go’s control.

It’s worth noting that many negative reviews stem from issues with third-party operators rather than the 12Go platform itself.

Overall Reputation

12Go is widely regarded as a trusted travel booking platform, especially for those exploring Southeast Asia. While it may not always offer the absolute lowest prices, the convenience, range of options, and secure payment methods make it a reliable choice for both tourists and business travelers.

Safety & Reliability

When booking travel, safety and reliability are top priorities for most passengers—and 12Go addresses these concerns by partnering only with licensed and reputable transport operators. The platform acts as an intermediary, connecting travelers to providers that meet industry safety standards in their respective countries.

Safety Measures

• Verified Operators – 12Go works with vetted bus, ferry, train, and flight companies that comply with local transport regulations.
• Transparent Information – Operator names, service classes, and amenities are clearly listed before booking, so travelers know exactly what to expect.
• Up-to-Date Schedules – Departure and arrival times are updated based on operator-provided information to avoid surprises.

Reliability in Operations

• E-Tickets & Confirmations – Most bookings are confirmed instantly, while others (such as certain train services) may take up to 24 hours depending on operator availability.
• Multi-Leg Journey Coordination – For routes that combine multiple transport modes, 12Go ensures that ticket timing is coordinated for smooth transfers.
• On-Time Performance – While 12Go publishes operator schedules accurately, delays can still occur due to weather, traffic, or other external factors beyond the platform’s control.

Refund & Cancellation Policies

• Many bookings allow cancellations or refunds, though terms vary depending on the operator and ticket type.
• In the event of cancellations caused by the transport provider, 12Go assists travelers with refund requests or rebooking options.

By prioritizing partnerships with trusted operators and providing clear travel details, 12Go offers a level of assurance that helps travelers book with confidence. However, as with any third-party platform, service quality also depends on the local provider delivering the trip.

Pros and Cons of Using 12Go

Like any travel booking platform, 12Go has its strengths and limitations. Here’s a balanced overview to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your travel plans.

Pros

1. Wide Coverage Across Asia and Beyond – Book buses, trains, ferries, and flights in multiple countries from one platform.
2. Convenient Online Booking – No need to visit physical ticket counters; reservations can be made anytime, anywhere.
3. Multiple Transport Options – Compare different operators, schedules, and prices in one place.
4. Transparent Information – Operator details, amenities, and reviews are displayed before purchase.
5. Multi-Currency & Payment Options – Supports major credit/debit cards, PayPal, and local payment methods.
6. Instant E-Tickets for Many Routes – Immediate confirmation for most bookings.

Cons

1. Service Quality Depends on Local Operators – Experience may vary depending on the transport provider.
2. Not Always the Cheapest Option – Some local ticket offices may offer slightly lower prices.
3. Limited Control Over Delays or Cancellations – While 12Go provides accurate schedules, unforeseen disruptions are beyond their control.
4. Variable Refund Policies – Refund eligibility depends on the operator’s rules, not just 12Go’s policies.

Final Verdict: Is 12Go Worth It?

If you’re planning to travel across Asia—or even to certain destinations beyond—12Go is one of the most convenient tools you can use. It simplifies trip planning by bringing together multiple transportation options—buses, trains, ferries, and flights—into a single, easy-to-use booking platform.

The platform’s wide coverage, transparent pricing, and flexible payment options make it especially appealing for international travelers who want to avoid the hassle of navigating local ticket offices or language barriers. That said, it’s important to remember that 12Go acts as an intermediary. While it provides accurate schedules and detailed operator information, the travel experience itself depends on the local transport providers.

For most travelers, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks—particularly the ability to compare different transport modes, book in advance, and secure tickets for busy routes. Whether you’re planning a scenic train journey through Thailand, a ferry ride in the Philippines, or a cross-border bus trip in Southeast Asia, 12Go offers reliability, convenience, and peace of mind.

Bottom line: If you value time-saving tools, secure bookings, and comprehensive travel options, 12Go is well worth using.