Bangkok has an enduring allure for global visitors that never seems to get old or go out of style. It continues to vie for its spot on lists of the world’s most visited cities.
From revered monasteries to all-night techno clubs, street noodles to Michelin-starred dining, and lush public parks to gritty urban train loops, Thailand’s capital leaves visitors dizzy with options and countless reasons to return. This admirable versatility creates a wide range of costs, reflecting varying income levels and social classes among locals and international travelers. Fortunately, Bangkok can be a treasure trove for budget travelers if you know where to save and what to avoid.
Daily Costs in Bangkok
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Hostel dorm bed: 250-400B
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Basic room for two: 800-1500B
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Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 800-2500B
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MRT subway ticket: 15-40B
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City bus: 8-25B
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Canal boat: 8-20B
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Motorcycle taxi: 15-100B
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Car taxi: 45-200B
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Coffee: 30-120B
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Local Thai dinner (for two): 350-500B
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Bottle of domestic beer in a shop: 41-55B
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Bottle of beer at a bar or restaurant: 150-250B
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Glass of wine in a bar or restaurant: 150-300B
Average daily cost: 1800-2800B
Time Your Visit Well
For maximum savings, avoid visiting during peak season if possible. High season in Bangkok runs from mid-November to early March, when accommodations enjoy high occupancy and charge premium rates. Expect particularly steep prices during the week before Christmas through the week after New Year’s, as some accommodations add temporary surcharges of 25 to 35 percent.
Room rates are generally lower during other times of the year, with the best deals often found in June, July, September, and October.
Choose Local Budget Airlines
When traveling domestically, consider local airlines like Nok Air and Thai AirAsia, which frequently offer lower fares compared to the national carrier, Thai Airways. Traveling lightly can save you even more since eligible carry-ons are free, while checked luggage incurs fees starting at 300B. Book your checked baggage in advance to save cash, and explore off-season bargains to maximize your budget.
Opt for a Cold Beer Over Cocktails
When it comes to drinks, wine and spirits are subject to high taxes, often resulting in inflated restaurant bills. Domestic beers such as Singha, Chang, and Leo can significantly reduce your dining expenses, costing about 30-40% less than imported beers. Enjoying a local brew instead of cocktails can help you stick to your budget while still enjoying a night out.
Eat Like a Local
The dining scene in Bangkok has flourished, with numerous Michelin-starred eateries elevating the city’s status for fine dining. Despite this, indulging in high-end restaurants nightly isn’t feasible for budget travelers. Fortunately, Bangkok’s remarkable street food culture offers a delicious way to eat well without overspending. Authentic Thai and Thai-Chinese cuisine can be found at street vendors and small eateries throughout neighborhoods like Talat Noi, Chinatown, and Banglamphu.
Embrace Public Transport
While taxi fares are relatively low, they can quickly add up. Opting for the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway can save you time and money, allowing you to avoid traffic jams. Both networks are extensive, making it easy to navigate the city efficiently. Additionally, city bus fares and canal boats are affordable options for getting around.
Stay Outside the Tourist Hub
Restaurants and accommodations near Sukhumvit Rd are typically more expensive than other areas in the city. To save money, consider staying in neighborhoods like Talat Noi or Phra Nakhon, where you’ll find budget hostels and delightful street food at half the price of tourist hotspots. The districts around Sathon and Silom Rds offer cultural engagement at a lower cost compared to Sukhumvit, providing a more authentic experience of Bangkok.
By following these insider tips, you can enjoy a vibrant and exciting experience in Bangkok without overspending. Optimize your trip by timing your visit, sticking to local options, and embracing public transportation to stretch your budget further.
