{"id":4296,"date":"2025-10-06T08:30:29","date_gmt":"2025-10-05T19:30:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/?p=4296"},"modified":"2025-10-06T08:30:34","modified_gmt":"2025-10-05T19:30:34","slug":"slow-boat-laos","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/slow-boat-laos\/","title":{"rendered":"Taking The Slow Boat To Luang Prabang: BEST Tips 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Thinking of taking the slow boat in Laos? The complete guide provides everything you need to know about costs, what to expect, what to pack and more!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking the slow boat from Thailand to Laos seems like a rite of passage for those backpacking around Southeast Asia. The 2 day journey will take you from the border town of Huay Xai all the way down to Luang Prabang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people refer to it as the journey from hell. Though trust me, it isn&#8217;t that bad taking the slow boat to Luang Prabang!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have read numerous horror stories, but obviously not phased enough by the infamous rumors, I decided to take the journey and form my own opinion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The slow boat is no doubt the most popular way for tourists to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/chiang-mai-luang-prabang\/\">travel between Northern Thailand and Laos.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have actually done this trip twice. Once on the public boat and the second time on a private operator. If you have done any long bus journeys or plane rides, it isn&#8217;t worse than those.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, there are certainly a few tips and tricks that will make your journey a lot more bearable!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Taking The Slow Boat In Laos: EVERYTHING You Need To Know<\/h2><nav><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#why-take-the-slow-boat-to-luang-prabang\">Why Take The Slow Boat Between Huay Xai &amp; Luang Prabang<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#crossing-the-thai-laos-border\">How To Get The Boat: Crossing The Thai-Laos Border<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#types-of-slow-boat-laos-journeys\">Types Of Boats You Can Take To Luang Prabang<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#where-to-catch-the-slow-boat-in-huay-xai\">Where To Catch The Slow Boat From In Huay Xai<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-price\">Cost Of Taking The Slow Boat<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#first-day-on-the-slow-boat-thailand-to-laos\">First Day On The Slow Boat Experience<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#staying-in-pakbeng\">Staying In Pakbeng<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#second-day-on-the-slow-boat-to-luang-prabang\">Second Day On The Slow Boat Experience<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#arriving-in-luang-prabang\">Arriving In Luang Prabang<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#additional-tips-for-the-slow-boat\">Additional Tips Worth Knowing<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#what-to-pack-for-the-slow-boat-in-laos\">What To Pack For The Journey<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#fa-qs-about-taking-the-laos-slow-boat\">FAQs About Taking The Laos Slow Boat<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#ready-for-the-slow-boat-to-luang-prabang\">Wrap Up: Ready For The Slow Boat To Luang Prabang<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large size-full wp-image-17564\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-16-533x800.webp\" alt=\"tasha amy rests her hands on the edge of a slow boat to Laos, her hair blowing in the wind as she admires the view of the Mekong River and the approaching Luang Prabang.\" class=\"wp-image-27401\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-16-533x800.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-16-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-16-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-16.webp 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">enjoying the beautiful scenery on the river from our slow boat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-15-533x800.webp\" alt=\"A traveler looks contemplatively at the rushing waters of the Mekong River from the side of a boat\" class=\"wp-image-27400\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-15-533x800.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-15-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-15-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-15.webp 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">appreciating the views out of the boat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<div data-gyg-widget=\"auto\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"66O8EST\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:36px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background has-medium-font-size\" style=\"background-color:#ffa03b7a\">\ud83d\ude97 <strong>How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand &amp; Laos: <a href=\"https:\/\/12go.asia\/?z=703961\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">12Go Asia<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-take-the-slow-boat-to-luang-prabang\">Why Take The Slow Boat Between Huay Xai &amp; Luang Prabang<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have ever gotten off the beaten track of any Southeast Asian country, you will appreciate the slower pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>People move at their own pace here, so you can easily relax watching the world go by. Take in the sight of playing water buffalo alongside locals and changing landscapes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, it&#8217;s worth keeping in mind the boats, even private ones, are in no way a luxury experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, that&#8217;s not why we are here, instead simply enjoy the sunshine, do some travel planning, and meet new people.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"lyte-wrapper fourthree\" title=\"2 Day Slow Boat Journey To Luang Prabang With Overnight Homestay Experience\" style=\"width:420px;max-width:100%;margin:5px;\"><div class=\"lyMe\" id=\"WYL_1h9pD0QDQvY\" itemprop=\"video\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/VideoObject\"><div><meta itemprop=\"thumbnailUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1h9pD0QDQvY\/hqdefault.jpg\" \/><meta itemprop=\"embedURL\" content=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1h9pD0QDQvY\" \/><meta itemprop=\"duration\" content=\"PT17M23S\" \/><meta itemprop=\"uploadDate\" content=\"2020-09-03T06:00:01Z\" \/><\/div><div id=\"lyte_1h9pD0QDQvY\" data-src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1h9pD0QDQvY\/hqdefault.jpg\" class=\"pL\"><div class=\"tC\"><div class=\"tT\" itemprop=\"name\">2 Day Slow Boat Journey To Luang Prabang With Overnight Homestay Experience<\/div><\/div><div class=\"play\"><\/div><div class=\"ctrl\"><div class=\"Lctrl\"><\/div><div class=\"Rctrl\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/1h9pD0QDQvY\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1h9pD0QDQvY\/0.jpg\" alt=\"2 Day Slow Boat Journey To Luang Prabang With Overnight Homestay Experience\" width=\"420\" height=\"295\" title=\"\"><br \/>Watch this video on YouTube<\/a><\/noscript><meta itemprop=\"description\" content=\"Join us on an incredible 2 day slow boat journey down the Mekong River. Starting off in Huay Xai the boat will take us all the way down to Luang Prabang. Spend the night at a local homestay on the river&#039;s edge and participate in a traditional Baci ceremony. The following day we set off early and have lunch at the impressive Pak Ou Cave before arriving at our destination. This video was shot in 2019. For more detailed info on the slow boat journey to Luang Prabang check out: https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/slow-boat-laos\/ Thank you Stray Travel: https:\/\/www.straytravel.com\/ Blog: https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/ Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/backpackerswanderlust Facebook: https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/backpackerswanderlust\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"lL\" style=\"max-width:100%;width:420px;margin:5px;\"><\/div><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"crossing-the-thai-laos-border\">How To Get The Boat: Crossing The Thai-Laos Border<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The first step to start your journey on a slow boat to Laos requires you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/chiang-khong-to-huay-xai-thailand-laos-border-crossing\/\">to cross the Thailand border<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We took a tuk-tuk to the border from Chiang Khong, which cost us $4.50. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The roads busy with vendors selling food and locals starting off their day. Though soon enough, the hustle and bustle disappears, and the landscape opens up to a large building in the distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Being early morning, the border is extremely quiet. We are quickly processed through the Thai side and officially exit the country. To get between the Laos and Thai immigration offices, you will need to pay $0.75 for the bus.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=1miBbjxW0iyjLPLgvaA0Le07WwGqQHWk&#038;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>This ride lasts a quick 10 minutes as you cross the Friendship Bridge. Annoyingly, we had to wait an extra 20 minutes for the first bus of the day to leave. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, the driver was late, if travel has taught me one thing, it&#8217;s for sure patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you jump off the bus on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/2-weeks-in-laos-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lao<\/a> side, it is a mad rush to get your forms filled out to avoid delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just make sure you write it out correctly and have a pen with you! The visa fee was $30.00, though this amount changes depending on where you are from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In case you don&#8217;t have USD, there is an ATM a few steps away, so no need to worry about getting cash beforehand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All up, the process probably took about thirty minutes to receive our Lao visas, and the majority of this time was spent waiting in line.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-13972\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-19.webp\" alt=\"Backpackers entering the Chiang Khong immigration checkpoint\" class=\"wp-image-27408\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-19.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-19-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-19-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">arriving at thai immigration and traveling from chiang khong to huay xai<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"types-of-slow-boat-laos-journeys\">Types Of Boats You Can Take To Luang Prabang<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are actually a couple of different slow boat options you can choose from. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One is a lot cheaper than the other. Though with that comes the crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, I will get into the positives and negatives of each below.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"lyte-wrapper fourthree\" title=\"2 Day Slow Boat Journey To Luang Prabang With Overnight Homestay Experience\" style=\"width:420px;max-width:100%;margin:5px;\"><div class=\"lyMe\" id=\"WYL_1h9pD0QDQvY\" itemprop=\"video\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/VideoObject\"><div><meta itemprop=\"thumbnailUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1h9pD0QDQvY\/hqdefault.jpg\" \/><meta itemprop=\"embedURL\" content=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1h9pD0QDQvY\" \/><meta itemprop=\"duration\" content=\"PT17M23S\" \/><meta itemprop=\"uploadDate\" content=\"2020-09-03T06:00:01Z\" \/><\/div><div id=\"lyte_1h9pD0QDQvY\" data-src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1h9pD0QDQvY\/hqdefault.jpg\" class=\"pL\"><div class=\"tC\"><div class=\"tT\" itemprop=\"name\">2 Day Slow Boat Journey To Luang Prabang With Overnight Homestay Experience<\/div><\/div><div class=\"play\"><\/div><div class=\"ctrl\"><div class=\"Lctrl\"><\/div><div class=\"Rctrl\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/1h9pD0QDQvY\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1h9pD0QDQvY\/0.jpg\" alt=\"2 Day Slow Boat Journey To Luang Prabang With Overnight Homestay Experience\" width=\"420\" height=\"295\" title=\"\"><br \/>Watch this video on YouTube<\/a><\/noscript><meta itemprop=\"description\" content=\"Join us on an incredible 2 day slow boat journey down the Mekong River. Starting off in Huay Xai the boat will take us all the way down to Luang Prabang. Spend the night at a local homestay on the river&#039;s edge and participate in a traditional Baci ceremony. The following day we set off early and have lunch at the impressive Pak Ou Cave before arriving at our destination. This video was shot in 2019. For more detailed info on the slow boat journey to Luang Prabang check out: https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/slow-boat-laos\/ Thank you Stray Travel: https:\/\/www.straytravel.com\/ Blog: https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/ Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/backpackerswanderlust Facebook: https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/backpackerswanderlust\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"lL\" style=\"max-width:100%;width:420px;margin:5px;\"><\/div><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Public Slow Boat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Public Boat is what most people taking the slow boat to Luang Prabang do, and it was what I did during my first trip to Laos. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The boat was full of locals and travelers of all backgrounds. This is a much cheaper option for getting to Luang Prabang. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, as a result, these boats are usually full. It is a mad rush to find your seats, and similar to being stuck on a bus or plane where you just sit down, look out the window, and get up to use the bathroom every so often.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Slow Boat Tour Package<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, you have the tour package. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a lot more pricey, coming to around $150.00 per person. However, it is much more of an experience than just a simple journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The group sizes are also much smaller, so you won&#8217;t be stuck squished into a seat the whole way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will find meals are typically included, as well as a stop at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/pak-ou-caves-luang-prabang-laos\/\">Pak Ou Caves<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where-to-catch-the-slow-boat-in-huay-xai\">Where To Catch The Slow Boat From In Huay Xai<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you have crossed the border into Laos, you can head down to the slow boat pier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is around a 30-minute walk from the main town. However, with all your luggage, I recommend getting a tuk-tuk instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply let the driver know you want to go to the slow boat pier, and they will know what you mean. This should just cost you a couple of dollars.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<div data-gyg-widget=\"auto\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"66O8EST\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:36px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background has-medium-font-size\" style=\"background-color:#ffa03b7a\">\ud83d\ude97 <strong>How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand &amp; Laos: <a href=\"https:\/\/12go.asia\/?z=703961\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">12Go Asia<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-price\">Cost Of Taking The Slow Boat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At the pier, you can buy your tickets for the slow boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang from the booth on the top of the hill above the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The price is $20.70 \/ 430,000 LAK for the 2 day journey to Luang Prabang.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17572\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-11.webp\" alt=\"Travelers with backpacks approach a fleet of slow boats docked at the riverbank\" class=\"wp-image-27396\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-11.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-11-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-11-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">arriving at the slow boat pier in huay xai<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>You will need to bring your passport and cash along with you when you book it. You will then be given your ticket as well as a seat number. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also buy your ticket in town rather than having to go down to the pier. However, you will pay a few dollars more for the luxury, but it will include a tuk-tuk transfer. The price of this is $21.20 \/ 440,000 LAK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are on a tight itinerary, it will be best to spend 1 night in Huay Xai so you can book tickets for the boat the day before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you can risk it as I did and simply turn up on the day and hope for the best.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"first-day-on-the-slow-boat-thailand-to-laos\">First Day On The Slow Boat Experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After taking a tuk-tuk from the border to the pier, we were quickly directed to the ticketing booth. They took our passport information, and we were given allocated seat numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Heading to the boat, we dump our bags in the back and wait patiently in our seats. There are about ten other people on the boat. However, the list at the ticketing office was already quite full, and we are not seated together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sneakily, we switch around a couple of pieces of paper with \u2018numbers\u2019 written on them and chill out. Many other people did this as well. It ended up being the solo travelers sitting together and those coupled up in another group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large size-full wp-image-17563\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"450\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-3-450x800.webp\" alt=\"Tasha amy smiling inside a Laos slow boat\" class=\"wp-image-27388\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-3-450x800.webp 450w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-3-225x400.webp 225w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-3.webp 540w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">ready and waiting to hit the water on our slow boat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"440\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-2-440x800.webp\" alt=\"View from a slow boat to Laos at the huay xai pier\" class=\"wp-image-27387\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-2-440x800.webp 440w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-2-220x400.webp 220w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-2.webp 528w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 440px) 100vw, 440px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">waiting at the pier in huay xai ready to depart<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>At this point, it is still mid-morning, so we stock up on snacks from a couple of nearby stores. It is six hours until we are off the boat, so food is necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the boat fills up, the weight pushes us deeper into the water, and the crew prepares to depart. The majority of people onboard the Laos slow boat are international tourists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The seats are surprisingly comfortable, being chairs ripped out of old vans. Though, they are not bolted to the ground so it&#8217;s a fight for legroom.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>We head off not long after we are meant to and begin our journey down the river. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The countryside goes by, and it quickly becomes the same view for the next six hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A long boat trip with no books and a limited amount of phone battery left from the previous hours has left me with not much left to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I grab a cup of noodles from the vendor at the back of the boat to keep me entertained as I stare at our location on Google Maps, slowly getting closer to Pakbeng.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17569\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-8.webp\" alt=\"Hazy atmosphere over the Mekong River with a slow boat in the distance\" class=\"wp-image-27393\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-8.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-8-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-8-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">an empty slow boat floating down the mekong river<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17571\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-10.webp\" alt=\"A boat cruises by a lush riverbank with traditional Lao architecture in a village called Pakbeng\" class=\"wp-image-27395\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-10.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-10-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-10-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">first sights of the township of pakbeng<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"staying-in-pakbeng\">Staying In Pakbeng<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arriving in Pakbeng was a relief, finally being able to get out and stretch my legs. We arrived an hour earlier than expected, and this is during the dry season when water levels are low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After so long in the boat, everyone is eager to leave, all grabbing their bags in a rush. Ours is unfortunately squished at the bottom since we were first to arrive, so we chill out and wait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Departing the boat, people are standing around the river&#8217;s edge, holding up signs with available rooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pick-up trucks wait on the road to take people to their guesthouse. Pakbeng is quite a hilly area, so the cars are much appreciated.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large size-full wp-image-17565\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-17-533x800.webp\" alt=\"The golden hour illuminates the serene Mekong River beside a sandy bank\" class=\"wp-image-27402\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-17-533x800.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-17-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-17-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-17.webp 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">enjoying a quiet sunset moment from the riverbank after a day onboard the boat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-14-533x800.webp\" alt=\"A slow boat on the river against a backdrop of colorful houses.\" class=\"wp-image-27399\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-14-533x800.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-14-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-14-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-14.webp 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">slow boats lined up at pakbeng<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>We booked at the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/phomephithak-guesthouse.html?aid=1197179&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Phomephithak Guesthouse<\/a> for $14.00 total. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In all honesty, arriving at our guesthouse was an absolute shit show. But luckily, we ended up in a room with a big double bed, private bathroom, and air-con.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At night, we head down the road for dinner. My advice is to find somewhere with a good view of the river.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> I just ate a sandwich for $3.90. We also order our lunch for the next morning before heading off to bed at our Guesthouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following day, we got up to a slight chill in the air and grab breakfast while watching elephants across the river have their morning bath. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The breakfast and packed lunch cost $5.40. Afterward, we grab our bags and head down to the slow boat pier.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17567\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-6.webp\" alt=\"boat transporting goods to pakbeng in laos\" class=\"wp-image-27391\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-6.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-6-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-6-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">boat transporting goods to pakbeng<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"second-day-on-the-slow-boat-to-luang-prabang\">Second Day On The Slow Boat Experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Heading down to the slow boat, the crowds are already lining up. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We get worried that it&#8217;s too late to get a decent seat. Luckily, they start filling up a second boat, and we manage to snag a couple of seats near the front.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Continuing down the river for our last day, we are all a little over it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I quickly fall asleep to the rocking motion and the river rushing by. I wake up to a little commotion as the boat stops along the river to drop off locals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"372375\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"USD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"66O8EST\"><span>Powered by <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/ban-xang-hai-l112317\/\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>Continuing down the river, still equally as bored as the previous day, it is time for noodles again. The overpriced noodles have kept me sane a little longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The last couple of hours away from Luang Prabang, the scenery of the river has finally begun to change. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s beautiful looking out and seeing the impressive limestone karsts dotting the landscape. No doubt this is the most picturesque part of the journey, and it&#8217;ll get you excited for exploring Laos.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17562\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-1.webp\" alt=\"Passengers seated inside the slow boat to Luang Prabang\" class=\"wp-image-27386\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-1.webp 960w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-1-711x400.webp 711w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-1-768x432.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">the car style seats on the slow boats<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large size-full wp-image-17566\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-5-533x800.webp\" alt=\"Rustic riverside dwellings dotting the hillside\" class=\"wp-image-27390\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-5-533x800.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-5-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-5-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-5.webp 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">looking across the mekong river up to a small village<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-4-533x800.webp\" alt=\"A floating market by the Mekong River with locals on boats engaging in daily trade.\" class=\"wp-image-27389\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-4-533x800.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-4-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-4-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-in-laos-4.webp 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">a house boat floating along the mekong river in laos this is just some of the views you will see from your slow boat<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"arriving-in-luang-prabang\">Arriving In Luang Prabang<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the main things you will read online about the Laos slow boat is being dropped off in the middle of nowhere and paying ridiculous prices to get to <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/backpacking-luang-prabang\/\">Luang Prabang<\/a> town. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>This is ALL old information.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>Docking up, everyone forms a human chain to help get the bags off. The late afternoon heat is intense, and the sun is blaring down. Once we receive our bags, we climb a short but steep path up the riverbank, and at the top is a tuk-tuk stand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here we give our details, pay $2.40 per person, and then jump on. In all honesty, it is extremely organized and fairly priced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As we leave, we spot a few people walking along the dirt road to try flag down a tuk-tuk for a cheaper price.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17573\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-12.webp\" alt=\"Boats moored up at Luang Prabang with passengers disembarking.\" class=\"wp-image-27397\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-12.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-12-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-12-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">disembarking our slow boat in luang prabang<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17574\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-13.webp\" alt=\"Passengers ascend the steps from the Mekong River having arrived in luang prabang\" class=\"wp-image-27398\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-13.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-13-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-13-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">the ridiculous staircase you need to climb after you arrive in luang prabang with all your bags<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<div data-gyg-widget=\"auto\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"66O8EST\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:36px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background has-medium-font-size\" style=\"background-color:#ffa03b7a\">\ud83d\ude97 <strong>How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand &amp; Laos: <a href=\"https:\/\/12go.asia\/?z=703961\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">12Go Asia<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"additional-tips-for-the-slow-boat\">Additional Tips Worth Knowing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The <strong>toilets on these boats are not great<\/strong>. Honestly, the toilet itself was not too bad, but lord, did it flood. Try to go relatively early and then hold on until you arrive in Pakbeng. I am going to assume it&#8217;s water from the bucket that is used to flush the toilet, and nothing else!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do not book your accommodation in Pakbeng in advance<\/strong> unless you want to stay somewhere super-duper fancy! Even in saying this, no place in Pakbeng is that nice!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do not listen to the man who will come onto the slow boat and start selling accommodation<\/strong>. These beds are overpriced, and it is a scam.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>At Huay Xai, buy some baguettes to bring onboard. Peanut butter and bananas are a favorite of mine. You can also preorder to pick it up the next day. No one should live off cup noodles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It&#8217;s well known that the<strong> boat seats in the back are the worst,<\/strong> as the motors on the boat are deafening. Arrive early to get yourself a seat up front. You won&#8217;t regret it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/3-weeks-in-thailand-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thailand<\/a> SIM card will work for <\/strong>the majority of the journey! Yes, even though we are not in Thailand, we are so close to the border that Thailand SIMs work, and Laos ones do not. You can buy a Laos SIM card in Huay Xai. However, you won&#8217;t be able to use it much on the first day.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"798\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-7.webp\" alt=\"A slow boat to Luang Prabang gliding along the Mekong River\" class=\"wp-image-27392\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-7.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-7-602x400.webp 602w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-7-768x511.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">slow boat to luang prabang laos along the mekong river<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-to-pack-for-the-slow-boat-in-laos\">What To Pack For The Journey<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While onboard, your main bag will be at the back of the boat and basically unreachable until you get to Pakbeng, then the following day, until Luang Prabang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should pack all essentials in your day pack, which you will have on you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>Jacket:<\/strong> A jacket or hoodie will protect you from the cool morning breeze, which is common during the early hours on the Mekong River until the sun appears. You can even use the jacket as a pillow once it gets warm. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunblock:<\/strong> Depending on the direction the boat is facing, you may be stuck under the sun. Definitely bring sunblock to prevent yourself from getting burned. You are basically stuck in those seats, so there is nowhere else to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Toilet Paper: <\/strong>The toilets on the boat are not the best, and trust me, just bring toilet paper or wet wipes. This is something you should always carry in your day pack anyway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Snacks:<\/strong> You don&#8217;t go on a road trip without snacks, so don&#8217;t do the slow boat without them either! There are shops down at the pier that sell a variety of nibbles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Entertainment:<\/strong> Now, I don&#8217;t know what you do for fun, but I presume it&#8217;s not taking a 2 day boat. Anyway best to take some sort of entertainment, including a battery pack to charge your phone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, there are no tables, so I wouldn&#8217;t bother with cards, etc.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full wp-image-17570\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-9.webp\" alt=\"tasha amy with flowing red hair gazes out from the shelter of a slow boat \" class=\"wp-image-27394\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-9.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-9-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-9-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">enjoying a bit of sunshine after a foggy morning on the slow boat to luang prabang<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where-to-stay-in-luang-prabang\">Where To Stay In Luang Prabang?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of choices when it comes to <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/where-to-stay-luang-prabang\/\">accommodation in Luang Prabang<\/a>, from the impressive 5* resort, historic hotels, simple hostels, and locally owned guesthouses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We stayed on a quaint side street minutes from the center and the Mekong River on our recent visit, and I fell in love with this little spot. There are a few budget guesthouses and nicer hotels available down this street as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/pumalin-villa.en.html?aid=1197179&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Villa Pumalin,<\/a> which has an indoor pool and beautiful wooden rooms starting at $30.00 per night.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<table class=\"aligncenter\" width=\"700\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"350\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5705\" src=\"https:\/\/cf.bstatic.com\/xdata\/images\/hotel\/max1280x900\/460699820.jpg?k=d1530f6d60ed38439c9c0eb84a788c9623cc543769be73cb8b92720dc3bcb897&#038;o=&#038;hp=1\" alt=\"La Casa Hostel\" width=\"350\" height=\"234\" title=\"\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/la-casa-hostel.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">La Casa Hostel<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">A chill hostel with friendly staff. Dorms start from $6.50 per night inclyding breakfast.<\/p>\n<a class=\"maxbutton-1 maxbutton maxbutton-mui-ne\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/la-casa-hostel.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=1\"><span class='mb-text'>BOOK NOW<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"350\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5705\" src=\"https:\/\/cf.bstatic.com\/xdata\/images\/hotel\/max1280x900\/458786917.jpg?k=1ab8ecf54c49dfd332805a89fc65700401de311120c9016550d5e9956e21a3a9&#038;o=&#038;hp=1\" alt=\"Barn Laos Luangprabang Hostel\" width=\"350\" height=\"234\" title=\"\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/barn-laos-luangprabang-hostel.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Barn Laos Luangprabang Hostel<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">More of a luxe hostel with great facilities. Dorms start from $10.00 per night including breakfast.<\/p>\n<a class=\"maxbutton-1 maxbutton maxbutton-mui-ne\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/barn-laos-luangprabang-hostel.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=1\"><span class='mb-text'>BOOK NOW<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"350\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5705\" src=\"https:\/\/cf.bstatic.com\/xdata\/images\/hotel\/max1280x900\/491764164.jpg?k=66dfafb663ed6308a862cc022ed7c1346c26216fc92950af103466ef022991f6&#038;o=&#038;hp=1\" alt=\"Villa Vieng Sa Vanh Hotel\" width=\"347\" height=\"232\" title=\"\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/villa-vieng-sa-vanh.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=2\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Villa Vieng Sa Vanh Hotel<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">A great location and with rooms starting from $45.00 per night including breakfast.<\/p>\n<a class=\"maxbutton-1 maxbutton maxbutton-mui-ne\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/villa-vieng-sa-vanh.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=2\"><span class='mb-text'>BOOK NOW<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"350\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5705\" src=\"https:\/\/cf.bstatic.com\/xdata\/images\/hotel\/max1280x900\/566077108.jpg?k=974770b7d1242499ffdf3d368a064f732cd2dbd15ecac8268558247b2ded9e8b&#038;o=&#038;hp=1\" alt=\"Villa Pumalin\" width=\"347\" height=\"224\" title=\"\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/pumalin-villa.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=2\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Villa Pumalin<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">A walk from the city attractions, starting from $26.00 per night with breakfast.<\/p>\n<a class=\"maxbutton-1 maxbutton maxbutton-mui-ne\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/la\/pumalin-villa.en.html?aid=1197179&#038;no_rooms=1&#038;group_adults=2\"><span class='mb-text'>BOOK NOW<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fa-qs-about-taking-the-laos-slow-boat\">FAQs About Taking The Laos Slow Boat<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1698827829368\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How long is the slow boat to Laos?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>You will spend 2 days onboard with an overnight stop in Pakbeng. Exactly how long you spend each day will depend on the water levels, though you can expect around 6 to 7 hours.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1698827864750\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How much is a slow boat to Luang Prabang?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The price is $20.70 \/ 430,000 LAK for the 2 day journey to Luang Prabang.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1698827923320\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What time does the Laos Slow Boat leave?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The slow boat leaves for Luang Prabang at 10.30 am from Huay Xai. If you already have tickets, then I recommend arriving 30 minutes prior. However, if you don&#8217;t, you will want to arrive as early as possible to try to book a spare seat.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"other-things-to-do-in-luang-prabang\">Other Things To Do In Luang Prabang<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of awesome things to do, so much that I recommend spending at least <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/three-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary\/\">three days in Luang Prabang<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s an awesome city with gorgeous landscapes, some of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/best-waterfalls-in-laos\/\">Laos best waterfalls<\/a>, and delicious food.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ready-for-the-slow-boat-to-luang-prabang\">Wrap Up: Ready For The Slow Boat To Luang Prabang<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now you have read absolutely everything you need to know about taking the slow boat, you should be able to do this 2 day journey with ease!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t fall for the scams, snag yourself a comfortable seat, bring some snacks, and then your journey to Luang Prabang will fly by.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>LIKE IT? PIN IT!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"534\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-pinterest-534x800.webp\" alt=\"Thinking of taking the slow boat in Laos? Find out absolutely everything you need to know such as costs, where to take it from, what to bring, what to expect, and more important information on your slow boat to Luang Prabang!\" class=\"wp-image-27403\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.6669691470054446;width:345px;height:auto\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-pinterest-534x800.webp 534w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-pinterest-267x400.webp 267w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/slow-boat-to-luang-prabang-pinterest.webp 735w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 534px) 100vw, 534px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#ffa03b7a\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Want more Laos Inspiration? Check out\u2026.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/2-weeks-in-laos-itinerary\/\"><strong>2 WEEKS IN LAOS ITINERARY<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/backpacking-laos-on-a-budget\/\"><strong>BACKPACKING LAOS ON A BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/cost-travel-laos\/\"><strong>COST TO TRAVEL LAOS &amp; MY TRAVEL BUDGET<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/scams-in-laos\/\"><strong>COMMON SCAMS IN LAOS <\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/best-waterfalls-in-laos\/\"><strong>BEST WATERFALLS IN LAOS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/chiang-khong-to-huay-xai-thailand-laos-border-crossing\/\">CHIANG KHONG TO HUAY XAI: THAI LAOS BORDER CROSSING<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/slow-boat-laos\/\"><strong>TAKING THE SLOW BOAT TO LAOS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/chiang-mai-luang-prabang\/\"><strong>CHIANG MAI TO LUANG PRABANG TRANSPORT GUIDE<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/three-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary\/\">3 DAYS IN LUANG PRABANG ITINERARY<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/backpacking-luang-prabang\/\"><strong>BACKPACKING LUANG PRABANG TRAVEL TIPS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/exploring-luang-prabang-night-market\/\"><strong>VISITING THE LUANG PRABANG NIGHT MARKET<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/where-to-eat-in-luang-prabang\/\">WHERE TO EAT IN LUANG PRABANG<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/where-to-stay-luang-prabang\/\"><strong>BEST HOTELS IN LUANG PRABANG<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/visit-kuang-si-falls-luang-prabang\/\">KUANG SI FALLS TIPS FOR VISITING<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/best-hostels-in-luang-prabang\/\"><strong>THE BEST HOSTELS IN LUANG PRABANG FOR BACKPACKERS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/pak-ou-caves-luang-prabang-laos\/\"><strong>VISITING PAK OU CAVES: IS IT WORTH IT<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/luang-prabang-to-vang-vieng\/\"><strong>TRAVEL LUANG PRABANG TO VANG VIENG<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/best-hostels-in-vang-vieng-laos\/\">BEST HOSTELS IN VANG VIENG<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/tham-chang-cave-blue-lagoon-two-vang-vieng\/\">THAM CHANG CAVE &amp; BLUE LAGOON TWO IN VANG VIENG<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/blue-lagoon-three-vang-vieng\/\">BLUE LAGOON THREE IN VANG VIENG<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/where-to-eat-in-vang-vieng\/\"><strong>BEST RESTAURANTS AND WHERE TO EAT IN VANG VIENG<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/river-tubing-vang-vieng-laos\/\"><strong>TUBING IN VANG VIENG LAOS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/vang-vieng-to-vientiane\/\"><strong>VANG VIENG TO VIENTIANE<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/one-day-in-vientiane\/\"><strong>ONE DAY IN VIENTIANE ITINERARY<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/visiting-kong-lor-cave-laos\/\"><strong>VISITING KONG LOR CAVE<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/tad-yuang-waterfall-pakse-laos\/\"><strong>TAD YUANG WATERFALL IN PAKSE<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Photo credit: \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/96862558@N03\/12518186684\/in\/photolist-k5bYLU-k59Hki-9uhuLY-9ueuec-9uetZr-9uhuWG-hBnqQM-4mwsCb-9ueuck-9uhuT3-w3EbjW-2kxg9s-2kxcmG-2kt27t-2kt63P-aduBZY-adrNWB-aduE3y-nP3MFC-nPdbwn-nQZDxP-nP3NkJ-5GZQfS-igkLa2-igkmpY-igkGYH-igkEbZ-igkYTF-igmuGY-nP9US1-4hhHUT-4hhHV8-4hhHV4-4hhHUR-4hhHUX-4hhHUV-nwHtSn-nwHHXC-k5czRy-DhFV6-DvKwp-k5aczV-k59RTR-58qrL3-4s8PKb-k5a93K-4rHT1Y-7j2nXD-DhC52-dke4WE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chiang Khong, Thailand 22<\/a>\u201d (<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a>) by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/96862558@N03\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JamesAntrobus<\/a> .<\/em><em> \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/dms_303\/3941306500\/in\/photolist-vSg6X-dsN1WS-71d5UP-71hsco-71dbVx-65cC7r-2kZyEb-7xyGGG-71djjr-7xyGpL-2kVUG8-71dize-nY8BDK-nYabVW-nY8DqR-71drAg-2kVxti-d6PLvb-4UwioP-d6PKUy-71hoZ5-77u9Ut-71haXG-ehRmV7-7xyGuw-7xyGAW-pPfH9y-71d9Xk-71hpuf-71h4S1-71domi-71he7m-71dqM2-7zx8qX-71h85y-9vzhZS-7tfVg3-ohnMx2-nY7AYG-ohnPmT-VFXmdS-6m7wCr-71d3hk-9vzdHf-7gdKmb-71hftq-71h3CW-q3wZVc-7cbwpZ-d6PM6s\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The slow boat up the Mekong River in Laos<\/a>\u201d (<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a>) by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/dms_303\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DanSearle<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Related Posts<\/h3>\n\n  \n    <div class=\"row large-columns-3 medium-columns- small-columns-1 has-shadow row-box-shadow-1 slider row-slider slider-nav-reveal\"  data-flickity-options='{&quot;imagesLoaded&quot;: true, &quot;groupCells&quot;: &quot;100%&quot;, &quot;dragThreshold&quot; : 5, &quot;cellAlign&quot;: &quot;left&quot;,&quot;wrapAround&quot;: true,&quot;prevNextButtons&quot;: true,&quot;percentPosition&quot;: true,&quot;pageDots&quot;: false, &quot;rightToLeft&quot;: false, &quot;autoPlay&quot; : false}' >\n\n  <div class=\"col post-item\" >\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box box-push box-text-bottom box-blog-post has-hover\">\n            \t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-image\" >\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"image-cover\" style=\"padding-top:75%;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/three-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary\/\" class=\"plain\" aria-label=\"3 Days In Luang Prabang Itinerary: ULTIMATE Guide\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary-600x400.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"three days in luang prabang itinerary catching a boat down the mekong river\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" title=\"\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n          \t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-text text-center\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-text-inner blog-post-inner\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h5 class=\"post-title is-large \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/three-days-in-luang-prabang-itinerary\/\" class=\"plain\">3 Days In Luang Prabang Itinerary: ULTIMATE Guide<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h5>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"is-divider\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"from_the_blog_excerpt \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLooking for the perfect three days in Luang Prabang itinerary to ensure you have the [...]\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t                                            <p class=\"from_the_blog_comments uppercase is-xsmall\">\n                            9 Comments                        <\/p>\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div class=\"col post-item\" >\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box box-push box-text-bottom box-blog-post has-hover\">\n            \t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-image\" >\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"image-cover\" style=\"padding-top:75%;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/exploring-luang-prabang-night-market\/\" class=\"plain\" aria-label=\"Luang Prabang Night Market: What You NEED To Know\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-4.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"royal palace at the luang prabang night market during sunset\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-4.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-4-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-4-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-days-in-luang-prabang-4-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" title=\"\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n          \t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-text text-center\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-text-inner blog-post-inner\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h5 class=\"post-title is-large \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/exploring-luang-prabang-night-market\/\" class=\"plain\">Luang Prabang Night Market: What You NEED To Know<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h5>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"is-divider\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"from_the_blog_excerpt \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWanting to visit the Luang Prabang Night Market? Find out absolutely everything you need to [...]\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t                                            <p class=\"from_the_blog_comments uppercase is-xsmall\">\n                            15 Comments                        <\/p>\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div class=\"col post-item\" >\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box box-push box-text-bottom box-blog-post has-hover\">\n            \t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-image\" >\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"image-cover\" style=\"padding-top:75%;\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/scams-in-laos\/\" class=\"plain\" aria-label=\"Scams In Laos: 7 Scams Travelers NEED To Know (2025)\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/scams-in-laos-2.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"hiking in a quiet rural village scams in laos\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/scams-in-laos-2.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/scams-in-laos-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/scams-in-laos-2-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/scams-in-laos-2-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" title=\"\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n  \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n          \t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-text text-center\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"box-text-inner blog-post-inner\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h5 class=\"post-title is-large \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/scams-in-laos\/\" class=\"plain\">Scams In Laos: 7 Scams Travelers NEED To Know (2025)<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h5>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"is-divider\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"from_the_blog_excerpt \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFind out absolutely everything you need to know about common scams in Laos to help [...]\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t                                            <p class=\"from_the_blog_comments uppercase is-xsmall\">\n                            6 Comments                        <\/p>\n                    \n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Thinking of taking the slow boat in Laos? The complete guide provides everything you need to know about costs, what to expect, what to pack and more! Taking the slow boat from Thailand to Laos seems like a rite of passage for those backpacking around Southeast Asia. The 2 day journey will take you from [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":27407,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[259,290,247],"tags":[278,248,277,275],"class_list":["post-4296","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-laos","category-topic-asia","category-thailand","tag-chiang-khong","tag-chiang-mai","tag-huay-xi","tag-luang-prabang"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4296","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4296"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4296\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27407"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4296"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4296"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backpackerswanderlust.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4296"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}