Thailand Travel Tips You Need to Know

Thailand is the perfect introduction to long-term travel and backpacking, and these Thailand travel tips will help you prepare for your first adventure in Southeast Asia. The land of smiles holds a special place in our hearts. It was the first extended trip we embarked on as a couple more than 20 years ago, and we have returned several times since.

Thailand has been a sought-after destination for decades, and with good reason. The Thai people are among the friendliest in the world, it boasts stunning beaches, unique culture, historic temples, and ample opportunities for adventure. The strong tourism infrastructure ensures a seamless travel experience while maintaining an exotic charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. However, when planning your journey to Thailand, there are numerous cultural insights and rules you should know to ensure a responsible, enjoyable journey throughout the country.

Thailand Travel Tips

We compiled our extensive Thailand travel tips gathered from visiting Thailand over the last 18 years to aid you in your trip planning.

Thailand Quick Tips

• Power Voltage: 220 V; Plugs A & C
• Currency: Thai Baht, approximately 30 baht for 1 USD
• ATMs: Widely available, but withdraw larger sums to avoid multiple 150 baht ($5 USD) transaction fees.
• SIM Cards: Easily obtainable at the MBK Centre in Bangkok. Data is inexpensive and fast. We often use a virtual SIM Card, but for extended stays, acquiring a local SIM Card simplifies communication.
• Language: English is commonly spoken; nevertheless, learning a few Thai phrases is appreciated.
• Climate: Thailand experiences two primary seasons, rainy and dry, characterized by a tropical, hot, and humid climate year-round.

Thai Visas

Thailand provides multiple visa options for travelers from Europe, America, and Canada, making it an accessible destination. Typically, tourists from these regions can enjoy a complimentary 30-day visa upon arrival by air and 15 days if arriving by land.

However, for those wishing to stay longer or partake in specific activities such as business or volunteering, alternative visa options like the Tourist Visa (TR) or the Education Visa (ED) can allow for extended stays. These can be applied for at a Thai embassy in your home country for an additional fee. It’s crucial for travelers to verify the latest visa requirements before planning their visit, as specific rules can change.

1. Don’t Ride the Elephants

Elephants used for tourism often endure abusive conditions, restrained to poles and made to obey their mahouts through harsh training. Rather than riding these majestic creatures, consider visiting an elephant sanctuary where you can observe retired tourist and logging elephants in a more natural environment. While they may never return to the wild, at least these elephants can enjoy a peaceful existence with the freedom to roam.

2. Do Not Take Selfies with Tigers

It was alarming to discover that tiger temples still operate in Thailand. While we had known of them from our first visit, it was disheartening to see that they continue to exploit these majestic animals for tourist pictures.

The Tiger Temple outside of Bangkok has been shut down, but many establishments still offer tourists the chance to pose with tigers. You can read about the ongoing situation here.

Unlike elephant sanctuaries that provide safe havens for retired elephants, places like Tiger Kingdom exploit tigers, often separating cubs from their mothers for tourist engagement. Instead, seek opportunities to observe tigers in their natural habitat through adventure excursions.

3. Cover Up

Regardless of gender, wearing revealing clothing is discouraged, particularly in temples and rural regions. Ensure you respect the local culture by covering your knees and shoulders when entering temples or wats. A sarong serves as an excellent item to carry—it can be wrapped around the waist as a skirt or draped over shoulders. Opt for long, lightweight clothing, such as silk or polyester, to stay cooler while also protecting against the sun and insects.

• Note: In beach areas like Phuket and Krabi, wearing swimsuits and shorts is acceptable. However, in cities and temples, ensure you dress appropriately.
• Avoid behaving like an ignorant tourist—adopt the local customs.

4. Take Off Your Shoes

Before entering temples, certain shops, or private homes, it is customary to remove your shoes. Flip-flops are a practical and popular choice in Thailand, easily slipped on and off. A straightforward approach is to take off your shoes if you notice multiple pairs left at the entrance.

5. Do Not Mention the King

Despite King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s passing, he remains revered by Thai people. To show any form of disrespect could result in severe consequences. It’s best to avoid discussing the royal family entirely, or if you must, ensure the conversation remains positive. This is a helpful guideline to consider when interacting on any topic.

6. Eat with Your Spoon

The utensil of choice for enjoying Thai food is the spoon. The fork assists merely in pushing food onto the spoon, which is then brought to the mouth. It’s customary to scoop rather than stab food. While chopsticks are sometimes employed for noodle dishes such as Pad Thai, expect to find only a fork and spoon on your table most of the time.

7. Food Service is Slow

Prepare for a dining experience where not everyone receives their meals simultaneously. If you order multiple dishes, they may arrive at different times, meaning one person may begin eating before the other. We recommend sharing your meals and dining family-style, just like the locals do.

8. Eat the Street Food

Thailand is celebrated for its exceptional street food, which is both affordable and delectable. Just remember to follow safety rules while eating abroad—consuming cooked items is generally safe, and peeling fruit is advisable. Due to high turnover rates, street food is often freshly prepared.

9. Don’t Rent a Motor Scooter – Unless You Have Experience

Tourists often rent mopeds without adequate protection, such as helmets, leading to unfortunate incidents. Thailand has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the world, making it a risky environment for inexperienced drivers. Sharing the road with various vehicles, including tuk-tuks and large transports, can be chaotic. Unless you possess significant motorcycling experience, consider hiring a driver instead.

10. Take a Tuk Tuk

Despite the concerns, experiencing a tuk-tuk ride is a classic part of visiting Thailand. Although it may feel overwhelming, it’s an exhilarating rite of passage! Ensure you agree on a fare before hopping in, and politely decline any detours to shops they may suggest.

11. Watch Out for Scams

Be wary of tuk-tuk scams where impossibly cheap rates often lead to unscheduled stops at various shops. Tuk-tuk drivers receive commissions for bringing customers to specific retailers, hence why they may not take you directly to your intended destination. Firmly decline such offers.

Other Thailand Scams

• The fake baht scam: Shopkeepers claim you’ve used counterfeit currency, sneaking a fake note in exchange.
• The Gem Scam: Random individuals may offer incredible bargains on gems, tricking you into purchases you’ll regret.
• It’s closed today scam: As you approach a famous Wat, someone may tell you it’s closed but will offer an alternate destination—a ploy to divert you to jewelry or gem shops instead.

12. Traveling Thailand

Exploring Thailand is affordable and straightforward. For shorter visits, consider flying between destinations. If flying isn’t preferred, the efficient train system is a great alternative. We’ve frequently utilized overnight sleeper trains to destinations like Chiang Mai.

Buses are also a reliable mode of transport. Thailand has a variety of first-class sleeper buses for comfortable journeys from point A to point B, easily booked through agents across the nation.

13. GrabTaxi App

When seeking budget-friendly transport in Bangkok and other cities, we initially used tuk-tuks, but now rely on the GrabTaxi app. GrabTaxi operates similarly to Uber, providing a cheaper, hassle-free alternative to negotiating fares with drivers. It’s also better for your health, as tuk-tuks tend to emit harmful exhaust fumes.

14. Go Shopping

On a shopping quest, you’ll find that clothing prices in Thailand’s markets haven’t changed much since 2003! Affordable sarongs, fisherman pants, skirts, and shirts are available for just a few dollars, and the lightweight materials take up minimal space in your luggage.

15. Go to a Festival

When organizing your travels, check for festivals happening during your visit. Numerous celebrations occur throughout the country annually. Here are some notable examples to consider when planning your trip:

Thailand Festivals

1. Songkran: The world’s largest water fight takes place in April nationwide.
2. Loy Krathong: Celebrated as a Lantern Festival across Thailand.
3. Yi Peng: A Lantern Festival in November, particularly celebrated in Chiang Mai.
4. The Vegetarian Festival: Occurs in October in Phuket.
5. Chinese New Year: Celebrated in January or February.

16. Take Long Tail Boat

Riding Long Tail Boats is an essential part of visiting Thailand, and a journey in one should definitely be on your to-do list. Nowhere else will you find a similar experience, as these boats are utilized both in Northern and Southern Thailand.

17. Protect from Mosquitoes

This aspect should not be underestimated in Asia. We know multiple travelers who have contracted Dengue Fever. Wear long-sleeved, light-colored clothing, utilize insect repellent, and consider bringing your mosquito net if you’re staying in less expensive accommodations.

18. Get Your Zen On

Things are slower-paced in Southeast Asia, and it’s important to let go of the urgency as soon as you arrive. Schedules may lag, service could be slow, food might arrive at different times, and not everything may proceed as planned. Thus, adopt a relaxed mindset and go with the flow to enjoy your travels more fully.

19. Pack a SteriPen

While the water is potable in certain locations, often, the quality can raise concerns due to aging pipes, regardless of treatment methods. Instead of succumbing to the growing plastic pollution problem, pack a reusable water bottle and a SteriPen to purify tap water.

In most reputable spots, commercially purified ice is typically safe; however, it’s wise to order drinks without ice when in doubt and drink straight from the can or bottle.

20. Have a Valid Passport

This may seem like an obvious tip, but ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months before departing your home country. Customs may deny entry if your passport is nearing expiration.

21. Live the 5 Star Life

Even if you’re on a budget, consider splurging for a night or two in a five-star hotel. Thailand offers the opportunity to experience luxury at a mid-range price. You won’t enjoy the same dazzling experience in downtown New York or Tahiti, but Thailand holds an abundance of beautiful accommodation options accessible to the average traveler.

22. Never Touch Anyone’s Head

This may strike some as an obvious rule, yet I frequently come across it on travel lists online. Perhaps some visitors indeed need reminding not to touch another person’s head, even child; it’s generally frowned upon.

23. Do Not Purchase Buddha Statues

Buddha statues are ubiquitous, and the temptation to bring one home is strong; however, exporting a Buddha image without a special license is illegal. Opt for elephant statues instead, which are a popular alternative among travelers.

24. Avoid Petting & Feeding the Animals

While it may seem tempting, resist the urge to feed or pet local monkeys, cats, or dogs. These animals may look harmless, yet they can act aggressively, and their bites and scratches may transmit diseases.

25. Vaccines

Stay updated on your vaccinations, including rabies, tetanus, hepatitis, and typhoid. Vacations often present unexpected medical scenarios, and staying vaccinated offers that extra level of protection. Seek medical care if bitten by an animal; if you have been vaccinated against rabies, additional shots will still be needed, but the timeline to get to help increases significantly. Consider carrying malaria prophylaxis, especially if you intend to visit areas in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, or parts of Malaysia.

26. Have a Massage – Many Massages

Massages are inexpensive in Thailand and can be found widely, providing a wonderful experience. We’ve enjoyed massages on beaches and in luxurious five-star spas—and each experience has been remarkable! A traditional Thai massage is especially worthwhile for relieving tension and kinks.

27. Full Moon Parties

For a lively party atmosphere, you may wish to experience a Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan. Each month, thousands flock to the island for festivities accompanied by drinks and late-night revelry. While most find the excitement manageable, it’s crucial to remain vigilant, as chaos can ensue. Be sure to book accommodations beforehand, as the demand spikes during this time.

28. Pack a Padlock or PacSafe

When traveling budget-friendly in Thailand, we always bring an additional lock and a PacSafe bag protector. While this adds some weight, it’s reassuring when staying in dorms or modest guesthouses. We simply wrap the cage around our packs to secure our valuables, including electronics and cash.

29. Explore Thailand’s National Parks

With 127 national parks across Thailand, be sure to visit some to hike to breathtaking waterfalls, take part in bamboo rafting, enjoy rock climbing, or simply appreciate wildlife. Our favorites include Doi Inthanon and Khao Sok.

30. Get Scuba Certified

If you’ve always wanted to learn scuba diving, Thailand offers an excellent opportunity. It is one of the most affordable places in the world to take a diving course. Popular locations for training include Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket, with Koh Tao boasting the highest number of certifications globally. Upon successfully completing your certification, consider embarking on a liveaboard diving trip to The Similan Islands, with operators based in Phuket and Khao Lak.

31. Thailand is a Big Country

Thailand is expansive, and even a month hardly suffices to experience it all. To immerse yourself in the culture, we recommend venturing north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. For beach lovers, the Southern Islands present various enticing destinations. Although one trip may not cover Thailand’s entire coastline, you can still enjoy a selection of its magnificent beaches.

Our Favorite Islands in Thailand Include:

• Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, Koh Samui
• Phuket Island is bustling, yet it is the largest and packed with enjoyable activities.
• Railay in Krabi offers an island-like atmosphere despite being inaccessible by road.
• Koh Phi Phi epitomizes the idyllic vision many associate with Thailand.

32. Bring Your Own Toilet Paper

Most urban areas and upscale dining establishments now provide toilet paper; however, when venturing to less frequented locations or markets, having your tissues at hand is a practical advice.

33. Go With the Flow

Visiting Thailand can feel overwhelming, particularly for first-timers experiencing culture shock. However, taking a moment to breathe and allowing for flexibility in your plans will enhance your enjoyment of this exciting destination. Embrace the journey!

And that is our comprehensive list of Thailand travel tips you need to know before you go!

34. Money

More establishments in Thailand are beginning to accept credit cards. We frequently use our cards without difficulty. To avoid hefty ATM withdrawal fees—which can hit up to 300 baht ($11 CAD)—we tend to pay with our cards whenever possible.

35. What to Pack for Thailand

Pack minimally; Thailand offers ample shopping options for necessary items at affordable prices, and laundry services are widely accessible throughout the country.

Packing List for Thailand

1. Flip-flops – you’ll wear these all the time.
2. Sarong – useful for visiting temples and wats.
3. Earplugs – useful for noisy travel and accommodations.
4. Choose lightweight hiking shoes instead of boots for comfort.
5. Bathing suits, shorts, t-shirts, a long skirt for women, long pants for men.
6. Dry bag – protects electronics during water excursions.
7. Pegless clothesline – perfect for drying swimsuits and sarongs.
8. A sweater – bus and train rides can turn frigid with AC.

When is the Best Time to Visit Thailand

The optimal time to explore Thailand varies by region and personal preferences. The country experiences three main seasons: cool dry, hot, and rainy. Below is a breakdown of ideal times to visit Thailand based on different areas:

1. Cool, Dry Season (November to February):
   • Generally regarded as the best period for exploring Thailand to visit multiple regions.
   • Comfortable weather, decreased humidity, and minimal rainfall.
   • Popular spots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and northern regions are most pleasant during this time.
   • Beach destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui are also favorable, featuring clear skies and calm seas.
2. Hot Season (March to May):
   • This season can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F) and occasionally reaching 40°C (104°F) in certain areas.
   • If you can tolerate the heat, northern regions like Chiang Mai still offer enjoyable outdoor activities.
   • Beach locales remain popular, but ensure hydration and the application of sunscreen.
3. Rainy Season (June to October):
   • The rainy season varies in severity across the country, with some areas experiencing more substantial rainfall.
   • While this is the least favored time for tourists, it presents an excellent opportunity to visit Thailand at lower prices and lesser crowds.
   • Certain regions, such as the north, tend to experience less rain during this season, making it ideal for cultural experiences and trekking.

The best time to visit Thailand is typically during the cool, dry season from November to February, characterized by pleasant weather throughout the country. Nevertheless, if you prefer a less crowded experience and don’t mind sporadic rain, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons for budget-friendly options. Always verify weather conditions for your planned destinations before traveling to optimize your experience in Thailand.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

When starting your adventure in Bangkok, consider our recommendations for where to stay in Bangkok.

Sheraton Royal Orchard – We enjoyed staying directly on the Chao Phraya River, taking advantage of free boat shuttles to Skytrain and superior amenities.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort – An exceptional luxury hotel offering river views, an infinity pool, and traditional rooms with superb breakfast options.

Budget for Thailand

• Budget: Backpacker hostels typically range from 250-700 baht per night ($8 – $25 USD).
• Mid-Range: Expect to pay 1,500-2,750 baht ($50 – $80 USD) per night, with added amenities.
• High-End: Upscale accommodations range from 3,000-12,000 baht per night ($100 – $300 USD).

Food Budget

• Budget Travel: Expect to pay 90-150 baht per meal ($3 – $5 USD) at local restaurants.
• Street Food: Street food costs range from 30-90 baht ($1- $3 USD) per dish.
• High-end Restaurants: Meals at upscale restaurants can reach Western prices, ranging from 450-600 baht ($15 – $20 USD).

Thailand Phrases – Quick Reference Guide

• Tuk-Tuk: A three-wheeled motorcycle typically used as a budget taxi.
• Songthaew: A public transport option, a pick-up truck with a covered area for passengers.
• Thai Greeting: Bow your head, place your hands in a prayer position, and say “sawadee ka” (for women) or “sawadee cup” (for men).
• Muay Thai: Thai kickboxing.
• Khao San Road: Bangkok’s famous street, a hub for backpackers filled with shops, bars, and affordable accommodations.
• Wat: A Buddhist monastery or temple.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thailand

Is it Easy to Travel Thailand?

Thailand hosts a robust tourism infrastructure, making it easy to travel on any budget. With a reliable bus and train network, travel within Thailand is both organized and cost-effective.

What Should I Avoid in Thailand?

Refrain from taking elephant rides and avoid visiting tiger temples. While passing through Khao San Road is a definite must, staying overnight is not advisable.

What Should I Avoid in Thailand?

We strongly discourage drinking tap water in Thailand without purification. We utilize a Steripen to ensure our drinking water is clean. Its ultraviolet technology purifies water rapidly, ensuring it’s safe to consume.

Have you traveled to Thailand? What’s your top travel tip for the region? We are always eager to learn about new insights and would love for you to share them below!

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to plan your upcoming journey? Don’t hesitate to utilize these reliable resources that we personally endorse.

Book Your Flights: Begin planning your adventure by discovering great flight deals on Skyscanner. We’ve found their service consistently reliable and able to yield the best prices.

Book your Hotel: Seek the best lodging options through our favored providers. For Europe-based travelers, check out Booking.com, while others can rely on TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: For the best deals on apartment rentals, VRBO offers competitive pricing.

Travel Insurance: It’s crucial to ensure you’re covered while traveling. We recommend:

• Safety Wing – for occasional travelers.
• Medjet – global air medical transportation and travel security.

Book Your Activities: For guided tours, skip-the-line access, and personal guides, we suggest Get Your Guide.

If you need additional assistance while planning your trip, visit our Resources Page highlighting trustworthy companies we rely upon during our travels.