What are the best options for a border run from Chiang Mai to Laos for DTV holders?

Hi everyone,

I'm on a DTV and live in Phuket but currently in Chiang Mai until mid next week. I'm considering doing a quick border run while I'm up here since I know Chiang Mai has easy access to the Laos border.

My situation:

- Not urgent (still have plenty of time on my current 180-day stamp)

- But this seems like a good opportunity while I'm already in the north

- I’ve been reading that in-country extensions are proving difficult in both Phuket and Chiang Mai, with immigration often directing people to border runs anyway

- Looking to do it quickly - ideally a same-day service

Questions:

1. Can anyone recommend reliable border run companies operating from Chiang Mai to Chiang Khong/Huay Xai?

2. What's the current cost and timing? (I've seen ~2,500 THB mentioned for 8-hour trips)

3. Any recent experiences or tips for this route?

4. Is it worth doing now vs. waiting and flying to Malaysia/Cambodia from Phuket later?

Appreciate any advice or recommendations! 🙏