How to book train tickets as a foreigner in Laos?

The Laos-China railway is the first railway network in Laos. It’s becoming increasingly popular to take the train in Laos because the roads in Laos are not in good condition. The Laos-China Railway connects major cities and towns like Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang and Boten. The Lao-China Railway is a game-changer in Laos. It provides fast and efficient transportation between Laos and China. With its streamlined design and modern amenities it feels like you are China instead of Laos. In this article I will explain the best options on how to book train tickets as a foreigner in Laos.

Plan your journey

Before booking your train tickets, it’s important to plan out your journey. Decide on your travel dates, the number of passengers, and which class you would like to travel in. This will make the booking process smoother and ensure that you secure your desired seats. The train is very popular among Chinese tourists. Large groups take the train, especially in the weekends. So you need to plan ahead when you like to travel by train in Laos. Tickets go on sale three days in advance and tend to sell out quickly. Especially for popular routes like Luang Prabang to Vientiane.

Choosing your class

The Lao-China Railway offers three classes of travel;

• Economy Class: The most affordable option with comfortable seating and basic amenities
• First Class: A step up from economy, with more spacious seating and additional amenities such as meals and snacks
• Business Class: Ideal for business travelers, this class offers luxurious seating, gourmet meals, and access to exclusive lounges

Booking options

There are multiple ways to book train tickets as a foreigner in Laos:

• LCR app: Using the LCR app is unfortunately not as straightforward as it seems. LCR doesn’t have a website, and the only way to purchase a ticket is through their LCR app, available for Android and iOS. But there’s a catch: you need a Laotian phone number to create an account. The app says it accepts phone numbers from Thailand, China, and Laos. I tried to use my Thai number but the app did not accept the number. My Lao number was accepted by the LCR app. The app accepts online payments via UnionPay, WeChat, Alipay, Visa, and BCEL One. Once your payment is confirmed, you’ll receive a QR code, which is all you need to board the train. Note that there is a booking fee.
• Through a travel agent: If you’re not confident with booking on your own, you can also go to a travel agent who specializes in train bookings. They can assist with finding the best deals and booking your tickets. Or ask at the reception of your hotel/ guest house to see if they can book train tickets for you.
• 12Go Asia (best option): The best and easiest option is to book through 12Go Asia. When booking with 12Go Asia, you can choose your preferred date and time. Due to its popularity, your preferred slot may be fully booked. In that case, 12Go Asia allows you to opt for alternative dates and times. You will receive the booking confirmation within 24 hours, so please keep in mind that payment does not immediately guarantee your ticket! If travelling during high season, I advise you to remain flexible with your travel dates and times.

Tips for smooth travel

To ensure a smooth journey on the Lao-China Railway, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Book in advance: It’s recommended to book your tickets as early as possible, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Check for discounts: The railway offers discounts for children, students, and senior citizens. Be sure to inquire about these if you fall into one of these categories.
• Arrive early: To avoid any last-minute delays or issues, it’s best to arrive at the station well before the scheduled departure time. There is a strict security check, even more thorough than the security check at the airport. You are not allowed to bring lighters, vapors and spray deodorants.
• Pack light: Each passenger is allowed one carry-on bag and two pieces of checked luggage. Avoid overpacking to make your journey more comfortable.

Cultural and natural highlights to visit in Laos

Travelling from the north of Thailand, you’ll likely enter Laos through Huay Xai, a small border town. The only thing to do around Huay Xai is the the Gibbon Experience. The experience is popular among backpackers and you go ziplining across treetops in the Nam Kan National Park. This offers a unique perspective on the stunning natural scenery. From Huay Xai, you can go a slow boat to Luang Prabang. This journey takes two days. This voyage is not only practical but also a scenic one. It has breathtaking views along the way.

Vientiane is the capital city of Laos but the city tends to be more of a transit hub. Go tubbing, hiking or swimming in the blue lagoons of Vang Vieng. For hiking enthusiasts Nong Khiaw is an irresistible challenge with several trails leading to viewpoints offering panoramic views of the area. Si Phan Don, known as the 4000 Islands, is perfect for gentle exploration by bike or canoe. Pakse offers the thrill of a motorbike tour with its renowned village loop.