travel thailand on a budget

16 tips for a budget visit to Thailand

Oct 28, 2023 • 10 min read

These top budget tips with a guide to daily costs can help you keep your spending under control on a trip to Thailand © Chadchai Ra-ngubpai / Getty Images

Travelers looking for adventures on a shoestring flock to Thailand .

With its heady blend of pocket-friendly travel experiences, cultural surprises, easy transport, spicy-not-pricey food and one of the world’s friendliest backpacker scenes, Thailand could well be the perfect budget travel destination.

However, the cost of a trip can vary wildly depending on where you go and the levels of comfort you're looking for when you get here. Spend too much time in Bangkok, take lots of tours and drink lots of bottled beer, and you're looking at spending a whole lot more.

Here are our top tips for traveling further for less in Thailand.

1. Places to stay are cheaper in the low season

Prices for accommodations and transport shoot up from November to March, coinciding with the driest weather and travel-friendly temperatures. The July to September low season is the rainiest time of year; some ferry routes and island resorts close down completely, but accommodation prices drop significantly. Hotel rates also dip during the spring and fall shoulder seasons , which can be a rewarding time to visit without the winter crowds. 

2. Air travel into Thailand can be surprisingly low

Bangkok is one of Asia’s cheapest destinations to reach by air, particularly if you come with Qatar Airways, Etihad or another Gulf carrier, but prices creep upwards during the peak winter season. If flights to Bangkok are looking costly, investigate flights to Singapore , Kuala Lumpur and other Asian hubs, and see if you can find a cheap connection to the capital on Air Asia or another budget carrier.

Alternatively, connect to Bangkok by train . Regular trains run from Johor Bahru – just over the causeway from Singapore – to KL, Butterworth (for Penang) and north along the isthmus to Bangkok for around US$80 one way. It’s one of Asia’s most enjoyable rail journeys. 

3. Resist the taxis at the airports

Most new arrivals fly into Bangkok’s busy Suvarnabhumi International Airport, 30km (19 miles) east of Bangkok, though a few budget carriers still use Don Mueang International Airport near Chatuchak Weekend Market . At either hub, eager agents will try to talk you into expensive airport taxis.

Instead, take public transit; Suvarnabhumi has Airport Rail Link trains that connect with the downtown Skytrain and MRT network, and a free shuttle bus to a local transport terminus with cheap city buses into the center. Don Mueang has regular overground trains and slow but inexpensive local buses to the middle of Bangkok. 

At airports all over Thailand, you can often find a cheap taxi ride by flagging down a cab on the highway outside the airport-terminal complex, avoiding airport charges. Just remember to check if any highway tolls apply for the journey into town.

4. Stay in homestays or hostels

Accommodation prices in Thailand have been climbing steadily for years, in line with rising standards. Many backpacker places are edging into boutique-hotel territory, with cafes, bars, wi-fi and pools, and the US$5 box rooms of old are a dying breed.

To keep a lid on costs, sleep in dorms; rates start around 250B. For not too much more, you can find basic rooms and bungalows with shared bathrooms and fans rather than A/C (or central air-conditioning instead of a unit in every room). If you're traveling with friends, sharing triple and quad rooms can be a great way to save money.

Camping can be astonishingly cheap, with rates at many national parks starting from 30B per person. Homestays are another inexpensive option in rural areas; rooms tend to be rustic but comfortable, and you get authentic home cooking and cultural immersion in the bargain. Also, look out for discounted rates at hostels and budget hotels via booking sites such as Booking.com and Agoda.

5. Skip internal flights and tourist minivans for local buses and trains

Even if you stick to budget airlines, flying internally in Thailand and making use of those oh-so-convenient tourist minivans will jack up your travel costs. Instead, use public buses or travel in second or third-class carriages on the trains. 

If you don’t mind sleeping in a reclining seat, you can save the cost of a berth (and a hotel room) by taking a slow overnight train or overnight bus. Buy tickets directly from bus and train operators to avoid travel agent fees.

Buses run by the state transport company Baw Khaw Saw (BKS) are usually cheaper than private buses. Most bus stations have ticketing halls where all the companies advertise their destinations so that you can compare fares. Ordinary and express buses are cheaper (but less comfortable) than VIP buses or luxury VIP24 or VIP32 buses, named for the number of seats on board. 

6. Take taxis or a  sŏrng·tăa·ou  instead of tuk-tuks

For local trips, regard tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) as a travel experience rather than a serious means of transport. Prices are routinely hiked for tourists,  and trips often involve detours to commission-paying souvenir shops and other establishments. Sǎamláw – three-wheeled pedicabs – also work on a bargaining system, but they’re not too expensive for short hops. 

A metered taxi is usually a more stable bet – just be aware that traffic jams can make even a short journey slow and expensive. Rideshares can be summoned through Grab and other apps, but you’ll often pay more than you would for a regular taxi. For trips around town (or from town to nearby villages), by far the cheapest option is the sŏrng·tăa·ou – a pick-up truck with benches that operates like a local bus.

7. It's cheap to rent a motorcycle or scooter, but ride carefully!

Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a remarkably cheap way to get around in Thailand , particularly for local exploring. In most traveler centers, you can pick up a ride for as little as 150B per day, and petrol costs around 40B per liter. Thailand has a shocking rate of traffic accidents, so ride cautiously and slowly and make sure liability insurance is included as part of the hire. It may not be enough to rely on your own travel insurance.

8. Eat at street stalls and night markets

If you find restaurant dining is eating through your stock of baht, look to street stalls and wandering hawker carts that are always gratifyingly inexpensive. Stick to busy stalls and avoid uncooked fruit and veg.

As dusk falls across Thailand, street corners, parking lots, boat jetties and station forecourts transform into bustling night markets, where some of the best food in town can be had for low prices. Indeed, grazing from pàt tai noodle stall to sà·dé (satay) stand to ðôm yam soup vendor is one of Thailand’s great pleasures. For a real bargain, seek out the food courts attached to bus stations and other transport hubs, where bowls of noodle soup and other tasty local snacks can be had for penny prices.

9. Expect a high tax on alcohol

Going out in Thailand can be surprisingly expensive because of the taxes on alcohol. Knocking back the bottles of Singha or Chang beer can easily double your meal bill, so sip slowly or do as locals do and share a bottle of Thai whiskey or rum (usually enjoyed with ice and soda or cola). If only a beer will do, Chang is usually cheaper than Singha.

10. There's rarely a cover charge at live music bars

For inexpensive evening entertainment, a trip to a live music bar gives a lot of bang for not many bahts. There’s rarely a cover charge, and most venues have a rotating line-up of bands playing technically adept covers of popular songs. 

11. National parks have entry fees, and activities can be costly

Entry fees to Thailand’s many national parks are not too onerous – typically 200–300B – but they can add up. The big costs are usually associated with transport into national parks and organized activities such as guided hikes , boat trips and scuba diving. If you’re looking to save money, competition between operators keeps prices down at Khao Sok National Park and Khao Yai National Park . 

Accommodations at national parks, on the other hand, are very reasonably priced, with bungalows going for 350-500B and tent spaces costing from 30B (US$0.90) per person. Tents are often available for rent for around 150B. Most national parks with accommodations also have basic canteens offering simple Thai dishes at budget prices.

12. Thailand’s minor monasteries are often free to visit

Thailand’s most famous monasteries – including Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok – charge pricey entry fees for tourists. If you’re watching the pennies, smaller monasteries are often completely free to visit, and they are arguably more interesting because of the absence of photo-snapping crowds. In any town you pass through, ask a local for tips on the most interesting wát in the area – there’ll always be something intriguing to see.

13. Hot spring treatments are cheaper than spas 

Thailand’s spas are world-famous, and the sky is the limit when it comes to prices at the luxe end of the market. However, you can find therapeutic treatments for a song at dozens of natural hot springs dotted around the hills of northern Thailand. 

Chiang Mai in the north is ringed by government-run hot spring complexes, where therapeutic baths and other treatments come at highly agreeable prices. At Pha Daeng National Park , access to the pools costs just 100B, and you can camp for 30B per person; entry prices are similar at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs.

14. Seek out economical Thai massages 

Having a vigorously relaxing Thai massage is de rigueur on a trip to Thailand, and you can pay the earth at posh hotels and luxury spas. At the other end of the spectrum, you can enjoy a pocket-friendly pummeling from former convicts at Chiang Mai’s Vocational Training Centre of the Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution and Lila Thai Massage , where many graduates work full-time. 

Alternatively, head to the massage pavilions on the grounds of Thai monasteries, where massages are performed by people trained in traditional Buddhist massage, as taught by the monks of Bangkok’s Wat Pho , the spiritual birthplace of Thai massage.

15. Thailand is one of the cheapest places to learn to scuba dive

Budget travelers can breathe easy – Thailand is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to scuba dive. An open water dive certification course on Ko Tao will cost around 10,000B, and dives start from 1500B if you go in off the beach. While Ko Tao is the cheapest dive hub, other inexpensive spots include Ko Lanta and Ko Phi Phi .

16. Bring your own gear for free experiences

Every imaginable adrenaline activity is possible in Thailand, from canyoning and kiteboarding to bungee jumping, zip-lining and jungle trekking. However, prices can be steep, particularly for organized, tourist-oriented trips that include transport. If you want thrills at minimum cost, head to Railay near Krabi, Thailand’s favorite rock climbing playground, where epic limestone routes start right off the beach. There’s no charge to climb with your own gear (or it can be rented cheaply), and budget rooms are available at Hat Ton Sai. If you've got your own snorkeling gear, you can see the underwater world for free at beaches across Thailand .

A guide to daily costs in Thailand

• Basic guesthouse room: 500–1000B (US$15–30)
• Market/street-stall meal: 40–100B (US$1.20–3.00)
• Bottle of local beer: 80B (US$2.40)
• Organized tour or activity: from 1500B (US$45)
• Motorbike or scooter hire per day: 150–300B (US$4.50–9.00)

This article was first published Feb 2, 2022 and updated Oct 28, 2023.

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Thailand Trip Cost – Budget Tips and Prices in 2024

• Last Updated: January 17, 2024

Read on for a detailed breakdown of what it costs to travel to Thailand, whether you’re a budget traveler or looking to splurge. 

Before travelling to Thailand many travellers find themselves asking, “Is Thailand cheap?” or “What does a Thailand trip actually cost?” or “What are the best tips for saving money in Thailand?”

These are all valid questions and hopefully this article will answer them!

Thailand is a very affordable country to visit. Though it isn’t as cheap as its Southeast Asian neighbours, like Laos or Cambodia , Thailand is still a very affordable travel destination. 

Budget travellers can easily have an incredible time exploring Thailand cheaply.

Mid-range accommodations and restaurants allow travellers to treat themselves a bit more without spending a fortune, and there are lots of affordable activities to enjoy in Thailand as well. 

For those that want the real luxury travel experience, Thailand has that too, and it isn’t even out-of-the-question expensive.

But for the average traveller, who wants to have an amazing cultural experience without spending an entire years’ worth of savings, Thailand is the perfect country to visit. 

With this post, you’ll learn about what things actually cost in Thailand, and how to break down the cost of a trip. 

Of course, the actual cost of a trip to Thailand will depend on the individual traveller and their personal preferences. 

But for those looking for a general idea of a Thailand travel budget, this is the article for you!

While discussing prices in Thailand, I’ll be using USD. Because this is such a universal currency, hopefully, the prices will make more sense than if I list them in Thai Baht. (1 USD equals roughly 30 THB)

Table of Contents

Backpacker Budget: Average daily budget: $25-50 USD

Mid range budget: average daily budget: $60-100 usd , luxury traveler budget: average daily budget: $200-400 usd, getting to thailand by air, getting to thailand by land, public transport in thailand, long journeys, short journeys, street food, buying groceries, local restaurant, tourist restaurant, fancy restaurant, drinking in thailand, guest house/cheap hotel, mid-range hotel, luxury hotel, activity cost breakdown in thailand, thailand budget travel tips, thailand trip cost: how much does it cost to travel to thailand.

Wondering how much does it cost to travel to Thailand? Considering the information presented in this post, creating a Thailand travel budget can be quite simple. 

Think about whether you want to travel on a backpacker budget, a mid-range traveller budget, or a luxury budget. You can even mix-and-match, penny-pinching at times and splurging here and there. 

Formulating a Thailand travel budget is all up to the individual, but this breakdown of an average Thailand trip cost should help you get an idea of what you’ll spend. 

* Attractions vary greatly by personal interest and can be the same at any level of budget

If you live the backpacker lifestyle and always pick the cheapest options while travelling around Thailand, it is very easy to explore Thailand on a budget. 

There are plenty of free attractions to see, like temples, street markets, waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints. 

Some popular attractions may have entrance fees, but they are usually close to nothing. 

A budget traveler in Thailand would have average daily expenses that may look something like this:

• Hostel dorm bed: 10 USD
• Fruit smoothie: 2 USD
• Temple entrance fee: 2 USD
• 2 street food meals: 8 USD
• Taxi ride: 2 USD
• 1 beer from 7/11: 1 USD
• Total Cost: 25 USD

But make sure you aren’t so stingy with money that you miss out on special experiences!

You can book activities with the cheapest companies and pack a few fun day trips into your schedule. 

Book a half-day island snorkelling tour for 30 USD, take a local cooking class for 30 USD, or hit up a Thai boxing match for 15 USD. 

Take cheap buses around the country, avoid drinking too much, and hang out with the locals. 

A budget traveler should have no problem enjoying themselves in Thailand!

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money than the average backpacker, you can upgrade your Thailand travel budget to include more fun things. 

Visit all the best attractions, even if they cost a bit more. 

Treat yourself to some nice cocktails on the beach here and there. Book a one-hour Thai massage, or maybe throw in a full-day scuba-diving trip. 

Stay in affordable hotel rooms and eat a wide range of foods that include cheap street food and some nice restaurant meals. 

An average day may look like this:

• Budget double room in a hotel: 22 USD
• Lunch in a restaurant: 6 USD
• Cocktail: 5 USD
• Street food for dinner: 4 USD
• Souvenir shopping: 5 USD
• Cabaret Show: 15 USD
• Taxi ride: 3 USD
• Total Cost: 60 USD

On a mid-range budget, you can dish out more money on the things that matter to you the most. 

You can pay for more day trips if you want to explore more, or you can treat yourself to more food and drinks if you like eating out. 

Whatever you choose, you can still have the trip of a lifetime without completely breaking the bank. 

If you really decide to lash out on a luxury vacation to Thailand, you’ll be surprised at how affordable it is. 

If you’re willing to spend lots of money, you can also pay for all the best activities. 

You can book guided temple tours, incredible speedboat island-hopping tours, spa and massage treatments, private cooking lessons, and everything else under the sun. 

You can indulge in all the best food and drinks, and stay in five-star accommodation. 

For those who dream of a vacation like this, but don’t think they can afford it, Thailand is a relatively cheap place to live like a king or queen, so take a look at this average daily budget breakdown. 

• Luxury suite in a nice hotel: 150 USD
• Private temple tour: 50 USD
• Thai cooking lesson: 30 USD
• Lunch in a tourist restaurant: 10 USD
• Drinks on the beach: 30 USD
• Spa treatment: 20 USD
• Dinner in a nice restaurant: 30 USD
• Total cost: 320 USD per day

Though most travellers won’t be living the luxury lifestyle in Thailand, it is interesting to see the actual costs. 

Probably the most rewarding way to travel Thailand is by using a mid-range budget. 

You can still kick it with the locals, eat street food and drink cheap local beer, but spend a bit of money on amazing activities and nicer accommodation. 

Backpacking Thailand is also a really fun and character-building experience. 

You’ll learn a lot from navigating public transport and deciphering foreign menus. While staying in hostels, you’ll also meet lots of incredible people. 

So a Thailand travel budget does not have to send you into bankruptcy. 

Travel with a frugal attitude, an open mind, and positive energy and you’ll have an unforgettable trip!

Breakdown of Thailand Costs

With a general overview of the Thailand costs at various budgets, below you will find information to help you navigate specific budget items.

These will include costs of:

• Transportation (to and around)
• Accommodation

I’ll also end the article with some budget travel tips. If you’re looking to save money, these tips will help you enjoy Thailand for cheaper.

Cost of Transportation in Thailand

Wondering how much does it cost to get around Thailand? Here is a breakdown of the costs of getting to Thailand, and getting around within the country. Local transportation is affordable here!

READ MORE: Check out my other guide on transportation in Thailand for a better idea of how to get around.

The cost of flying to Thailand depends on where you are travelling. 

If you are travelling from the Americas or Europe, chances are your flight will be very long and quite expensive. 

However, there are certain budget travel tips to keep in mind that will help you find the cheapest flight to Thailand. 

• Plan your trip to Thailand during the off-season (April through October) 
• Check websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights that show you the cheapest departure dates for an entire month
• Don’t be afraid to take weird layovers; the prices may be cheaper!
• Consider changing your departure airport if possible (For example, flying from NYC to Bangkok is cheaper than flying from Boston to Bangkok).

Use these same tips no matter where you are flying from, and you should be able to score a reasonably priced flight to Thailand. 

If you’re travelling to Thailand overland, your travel will most likely be incredibly cheap. 

The most affordable way to get to Thailand from bordering countries is by bus. 

Countless different bus companies travel to Thailand from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, and the journey will usually cost around 20-40 USD. Depending on where you are starting your trip to Thailand, it may be cheaper to travel by land.

Once you arrive in Thailand, you’ll be using public transport to get around the country (unless you rent a car). 

The typical traveller’s route in Thailand starts in Bangkok , then goes up to the north to Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai , and Pai , then goes down south to the islands. 

So you’ll probably be travelling long distances within the country, and luckily these journeys can be very cheap.

Here is a general idea of what different local transportation options cost when you visit Thailand:

Here is the average cost of travelling long distances around Thailand via local transportation. 

Flights 

For covering long distances around the country, flying local budget airlines is the best option. You can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, or from Bangkok to the islands, in just one hour. 

Using budget airlines like Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, or Thai Vietjet, the average cost of a one-way domestic flight is between 30-50 USD. 

Keep in mind though that if you want to fly, your Thailand trip cost will go up.

Bus or Train

A long bus or train journey through Thailand, say from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, costs on average about 20-50 USD on local transportation. 

So the average price for buses or trains is very similar to flights, but they can take up to 12 hours instead of 1. 

If you’re a fan of slow travel and seeing the countryside, buses or trains are the way to get around on your trip to Thailand. 

But it is much quicker and just as cheap to catch a flight, so that’s probably the easiest way to travel long distances in Thailand. 

The best deals for internal ground transport in Thailand are on 12Go.asia .

For getting around one city or general area, here is a breakdown of the transport costs. If you’re in a big city like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, there are plenty of options to travel within and around the city.

Smaller towns have fewer options, but still should at least have the following:

These red-pick-up trucks serve as collective taxis, and they are the cheapest and easiest way to take day trips to a certain city or island of Thailand. 

If you wait for the whole truck to fill up, everyone can split the cost and the ride becomes cheaper. 

If you’re travelling 5-20 minutes within a city, your journey shouldn’t cost more than a couple of dollars. 

If you’re taking a long day trip and the drive is an hour, the whole journey may cost about 50 USD. But split between 10 people, you’re still only paying about 5 USD for a long trip. 

For travelling quick distances within a city, taxis are the second cheapest way to travel. 

Only use taxis that have meters, and your quick journey won’t cost more than 5 USD. 

These motorized, three-wheeled scooters are a fun way to travel in Thailand, but the drivers tend to overcharge tourists. 

It is common for a tuk tuk ride to cost up to 10 USD, which seems cheap but is definitely overpriced for local transportation in Thailand. 

Ask locals what a specific tuk tuk journey should cost and make sure you clarify it with the driver before you go so he doesn’t rip you off. 

For travelling through the Thai islands, you’ll have to take ferries. 

There is usually only one route to get from one island to the next, and the cost of the journey is in the same range regardless of which ferry company you take. 

An average ferry journey costs around 20 USD, give or take a bit depending on how long the ride is. 

Cost of Food in Thailand

Thailand is truly a foodie’s paradise. 

There is so much delicious Thai food and it is all very affordable, so food won’t take up a big portion of your Thailand travel budget.

Here is a summary of the different types of places to eat in Thailand and how much they cost. 

Eating at street markets is the cheapest way to eat in Thailand. 

You can get full plates of food for as cheap as 1 USD, and little snacks like fruit platters and spring rolls cost less than 1 USD each. 

This is also where you’ll find the most authentic local Thai food, so street markets are the way to go regardless of your budget. 

If you plan on cooking your own meals, street markets are still the best places to shop. 

Big western-style grocery stores are rare in Thailand. Occasionally you’ll find little markets or 7/11s that sell staples like rice, noodles, snacks, and processed foods. 

But for buying produce, meat, seafood, and spices, the street markets have the freshest and cheapest food. 

Produce costs barely anything; you can buy a bag full of fruit for only a couple of dollars. 

Cooking is a great way to save money, but honestly, street food in Thailand is so cheap that you might as well just eat the food cooked by the locals.

For eating out in a restaurant, the cheapest option is eating at a small, humble, local joint that only has a few menu items. 

A full meal in a restaurant like this can cost between 40 and 100 Baht, which is roughly 2-4 USD. 

In touristy areas of Thailand, you’ll find lots of restaurants geared towards foreigners. 

This is where you’ll find western-style food like pizza, burgers, and European food in addition to classic Thai meals. 

A meal in a tourist restaurant generally costs between 100 and 200 Baht, still only 3 to 6 USD. 

Even in upscale restaurants, the price of food is very cheap. 

A full meal in a super high-quality restaurant can cost a few hundred Baht, and it is rare to find something that costs over 30 USD. 

So Thailand is an awesome place to treat yourself to the nicest restaurants and still spend much less than you would at home!

The cost of alcohol in Thailand varies. 

Beer is the cheapest beverage, whereas wine and liquor are often imported so they are pricier. 

If you buy your beer from a convenience store like a 7/11, it will only cost 1 or 2 USD. 

Ordering a beer in a bar or restaurant is a bit more expensive, but is still the cheapest drink, costing only about 3 USD. 

As for liquor, a mixed drink or cocktail can cost between 3 and 6 USD depending on the venue.

So though drinking in Thailand isn’t expensive, one of the best tips for saving money in Thailand is to just cut down on drinking in general and saving your cash for food and activities. 

READ MORE: Make sure you know all of the best foods to eat in Thailand !

Accommodation Costs in Thailand

There are plenty of places to stay during your trip to Thailand for any type of travel budget. 

Accommodation tends to consume the majority of a Thailand travel budget, but it is still very affordable compared to other destinations around the world. 

The Thailand cost of living is cheap too, so if you plan to stay here for a while you can probably secure somewhere affordable to stay long-term.

The cheapest form of accommodation in Thailand is a backpacker hostel. 

The average cost for one night in a dorm room is between 8 and 15 USD. The $8 hostels will be more basic, whereas the $10-$15 hostels will be much nicer. 

Even though the cost is cheap, all of Thailand’s hostels are generally very well-kept and full of great facilities. 

Thailand has lots of guest houses that are like small, simple, and cheap hotels. 

You can find a basic budget double room for anywhere between 20 and 30 USD per night. 

If you’re travelling as a couple, it may be cheaper to split the cost of a budget double room in a cheap hotel rather than paying for two hostel dorm beds. 

Make sure you book your hostels ahead of time on Hostelworld if you want to get the best ones, as they often sell out.

Even a mid-range Thailand hotel can be very cheap compared to western standards. 

A beautiful hotel with a pool and lots of amenities can cost as low as 20 USD per night, though the average cost is anywhere between 30 and 60 USD per night. 

If you’re looking to treat yourself to the finest hotels and resorts in Thailand, there are so many amazing options. 

Especially when travelling in the islands, you can find stunning beachfront suites that will cater to your every need. 

True luxury hotels in Thailand can cost anywhere between 100 and 300 USD per night. 

There are a few rare finds that cost even more, such as renting an entire ocean view villa for thousands of dollars, but chances are most average travellers won’t be looking for places like that. 

After paying for all the necessities, like food, transport, and accommodation, you can start planning your budget for the fun stuff!

There are endless opportunities for adventure in Thailand, and you should at least participate in a few fun activities during your stay. 

Tours and activities in Thailand vary in terms of price and quality. Some tour companies are more upscale and established, so their tours cost more. 

The quality of your tour just depends on how much you are willing to spend. 

Here is a quick cost breakdown of some of the most popular tours and activities in Thailand that you may be interested in trying. 

The actual price will vary depending on the location and the company you book through, but here is a general idea of the average prices. 

• Island Hopping day trip: 30-100 USD
• Diving or Snorkeling day trip: 50-150 USD
• Thai Massage: 5-15 USD per hour
• Muay Thai Boxing Match: 10-20 USD
• Ladyboy Cabaret Show: 15-25 USD
• Cooking Class: 30 USD-60 USD
• Guided Temple Tour: 20-70 USD

READ MORE: Be sure to check out these incredible things to do in Thailand !

To summarise all the information throughout this post, here are some of the best budget travel tips for Thailand that will help you save money throughout your trip.

• Travelling during the off-season to enjoy cheaper flight prices
• Fly budget airlines to save money and time when travelling long distances in Thailand
• Try to share songtaews with other travellers so everyone pays a cheaper price and you can all limit transportation costs
• Don’t let tuk tuk drivers rip you off! Secure a fair price before you get in the vehicle
• Eat street food whenever possible. Not only is it super cheap, it’s authentic and delicious.
• Drink local beer when going out; it’s the most affordable option for alcohol in Thailand.
• If you’re a solo traveller, you can score a bed in some epic hostels for less than 10 USD per night.
• If you’re travelling as a couple, it may be cheaper to split the cost of a private double room in a guesthouse or hotel, rather than paying for 2 dorm beds.
• Treat yourself to a nice room in a hotel at least once in Thailand! Even if you’re on a backpacker budget, you can find some incredible deals.
• Take advantage of all the free activities in Thailand, like hiking, exploring temples, and visiting the beach.
• Attractions in Thailand are usually very affordable, so definitely spend a bit of money on some fun things like cooking classes, boxing matches, massages, or snorkelling tours.
• Spending money on experiences in Thailand is almost always worth it. Book tours with reputable companies and enjoy every minute of Thai culture!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I am looking to travel to Thailand as well!!! I am apprehensive about travelling alone. I am 56 female and looking for an adventure: it will be my first time travelling over that way. I have done the Caribbean islands before. .

thanks for the tips,im 65 and would like to find a travelling companian that would like to say go from phuket to chang mai any sights that i can look on that you know of,thanks for your time.

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30 Ways to visit THAILAND on a BUDGET

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 2024

Visiting Thailand on a budget? As ex-pats in Bangkok, we share the best ways to save money in Thailand and plan a budget Thailand trip!

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for young people and budget travelers; it really is possible to visit Thailand for $20 a day ! It may not be as notoriously cheap as it use to be but there are still many ways you can save money and bag a bargain when traveling to Thailand. As ex-pats living in the country, we share the best ways to save money in Thailand.

Thailand on a budget

1) Travel during the Low Season – When possible, travel to Thailand between April and September to save money on airfares, accommodation, motorbike/car rentals, and even food. Prices rocket up during the high season from October through to March. However, this is the rainy season so visit in September and October to avoid the heavy rain and the heat of April. 

If you are paying for hotels and hostels on arrival, it is easier to haggle prices during the low season as many rooms will be empty around this time of the year. To plan your trip, read these tips before you travel to Thailand.

If you know the craft of haggling well, you realize that speaking in the local language can help you in getting the price you want. Learning Thai will allow you to try to get cheaper prices not just for accommodation but other useful things such as food and transport.

If you are visiting in the high season, make sure to book hotels in advance and check deals directly on the hotel websites, especially when booking a 4 or 5 star hotel.

2) Avoid Tourist Traps – The islands of the South of Thailand are still cheap compared to the rest of the world but they are expensive for Thailand. Enjoy the beautiful Thailand destinations like Koh Chang or Ko Lanta rather than the tourist spots of Phuket and Ko Samui to save money on practically everything. 

Additionally, there are touristy areas in the city that are worth staying in but staying just outside of these areas will get you better value hostels and hotels. For example, you can get cheap hostels near Khao San Road but they can be run down and dirty. Instead, book a hostel along Sukhumvit Road or even find a private room in a budget hotel in more residential areas like Thonglor and Phrom Phong.

3) Leave the Taxi – During rush hours and in certain areas of Bangkok, Taxis are known to quote high prices for a journey. Even in Bangkok traffic, it is still cheaper to use the taxi meter, which all taxis should be doing anyway. Some taxi drivers even like to take you via a friend’s tailor shop which is just a hassle!

If a taxi driver refuses to use the meter then just get out and find another taxi, chances are there will be one driving past within a few minutes. Make sure you can see the meter clearly and once in your destination, if the driver starts adding ‘extra service fees’ then just pay the meter price and leave.

Our best tip for taxi travel is to stick to using Grab. This app is very similar to Uber and is cheap, and easy to use so make sure to download it before your trip and use it to get around. 

EXTRA TIP: Another way to save money and time when traveling across the city is to find the nearest BTS or MRT stop near your chosen destination, head to that stop then get a taxi for the rest of the journey. This is especially helpful during rush hour.

4) Travel on overnight buses but get second-class tickets – Overnight buses and trains can be much cheaper than day journeys whilst also saving you money on a hotel or hostel for the night. 

Buses around Asia are now pretty comfortable (for a bus) and come with air conditioning. The bus will still stop at convenience stores on the way so you can buy hot food, drinks, and snacks. There are also plenty of options to choose from and trips rarely sell out. 

Second-class buses aren’t too different from first-class buses, with the main difference being a little more room on first-class buses as well as a reclining seat and footrest. First class or VIP buses can be faster as they often have an on-bus toilet, meaning they don’t stop as much.

EXTRA TIP: You can also compare and book train, bus, and mini-van tickets on the 12Go website, a popular choice in Asia.

5) Visit Northern Thailand – Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are considerably cheaper cities than Bangkok and its nearby cities. A night bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai costs around 900 Baht with apartments costing as little as 200 baht per month (£40 or $60!). Plus, food and transport around the city is cheaper and taking buses to nearby locations can also be found for under 500B.

In general, visiting the lesser-known, off-the-beaten-track destinations in Thailand will always be cheaper than the more popular destinations.

6) ATM Withdrawals  – Take out large amounts of cash, preferably enough for your time in that area rather than small amounts from an ATM. You will often get charged a flat rate for withdrawing money from your bank as well as an exchange rate.

7) Haggle – No matter where you are in Thailand, you will notice that items are one price for locals and another price for foreigners. Make sure you haggle the price down to what you are happy to pay (even if it is more than a local) and if the vendor doesn’t budge on price then walk away – they will often call out a decent price if they think they are losing a customer.

A general rule for haggling is if a stall doesn’t have a price listed, it is probably because they are going to give different prices. In this scenario, either be prepared to haggle or move along and find someone else who does list their prices. (see the next tip)

8) Signed stalls – When visiting food stalls and markets around Thailand, try to buy items from the stalls that clearly signpost the prices of items. In Chatuchak Market , we once saw a crepe stall selling crepes for 40 baht then went to buy one a little further up and he tried to charge us 300 baht. Needless to say, we just carried on walking until we saw another place with the price displayed.

9) Negotiate with Tuk Tuk drivers – Tuk Tuk drivers can be found in the popular cities of Thailand, particularly in Bangkok. If you are taking a Tuk Tuk, make sure you negotiate a decent price with them, finalize the price before you get in, AND make sure they take you exactly where you want to go.

10) Buy a local sim card – Like most places, if you are staying in Thailand for some time, then pick up a local sim card and make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use the sim card. True Move is a popular choice but all package deals and pay-as-you-go deals are pretty decent. These are especially helpful when booking GRAB taxis to get around the city.

11) Hunt around for accommodation – Use Agoda , booking.com , and Hostelworld to search for the best deals before you start your travels. Booking accommodation in advance is usually much cheaper and not all hostels are cheaper than hotels. In Bangkok and Northern Thailand, you will often find cheap private bedrooms in small B’n’Bs, which work out cheaper than a dorm bed if you are traveling as a couple.

12. Rent a motorbike – If you are in the small towns and cities of Thailand, rent a motorbike. These are much more fun than taking taxis and can save you a small fortune. However, always make sure to wear a helmet and avoid traveling in wet conditions when possible, especially in the mountain regions up north.

13. Free attractions – No matter where you are in Thailand, there are always temples, monasteries, buddhas, farms, beaches, waterfalls, forests, and so on, that are completely free. Do your research and spend time visiting these.

For example, Bangkok has plenty of markets that are free to explore but also have cheap food and affordable souvenirs. Bangkokian Museum is a free place to learn more about the city whilst Wat Saket is a free monstery and a picturesque place to see in the city.

14. Take the local bus – Whilst in Bangkok, it can be so much cheaper if you use the local bus system to get around the city. Half an hour trips start at 20 baht and more and more buses are being modernized; meaning you even get aircon!

15. Jump on the BTS/MRT – For fast, easy, and cheap transport around Bangkok, jump on the BTS or MRT to your chosen destination. If you are far from a stop or your destination is far from a stop, it may be worth getting a taxi or river boat to the nearest station to avoid traffic.

Either way, get yourself a Rabbit card and stick to the BTS/MRT as much as you can. You can download the BTS SkyTrain app to navigate your way around the city with ease.

16. Hand-out Flyers – In the south of Thailand, some bars are known to give you free drinks if you spend a few hours handing out their venue flyers during the afternoon. Speak to those at the bars, this is more likely to happen with bars run by ex-pats.

17. Couchsurfing – This is a website that gives you an opportunity to find free accommodation with people living in Thailand. This works particularly well in places like Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Chiang Rai where there are large amounts of ex-pats with spare rooms! Browse the hosts to find accommodation options but also check out the meet-up groups to meet other travelers in the city.

18. Avoid Western food – We all like a pizza or a Mcdonald’s from time to time but if you are trying to save money in Thailand then don’t start hitting up western chain restaurants. Head to a local restaurant or market and eat like a king for very little.

The best Thai street food on a budget : Most street food in Thailand is cheap and affordable, meaning you can try plenty of the local flavors without spending a fortune. Some of our favorites we would highly recommend are Sam Tham, Phra Kra Pro, and Moo Ping.

19. Don’t leave tips – It is not the norm to leave tips in Thailand so don’t worry about leaving tips in restaurants, bars, or cafes. However, we found the locals to be very grateful when we did.

20. 7/11 Stock up – The first thing we learned about Thailand when we arrived in Bangkok, was how cheap the beer in 7/11 is! A big bottle of beer costs around 55 baht (£1.10) whilst whiskey and wine bottles are as cheap as 250 baht (£5!). There are also these stores EVERYWHERE; ideal for stocking on water etc for your hotel room.

7/11 also has plenty of food options that they happily heat up for you. This includes local meals like green curry and Pad Thai as well as quick bites like sandwiches and toasties and western food like pasta, burgers, and burritos. This is a great way to save money when you aren’t near a food stall or fancy something a little more familiar.

21. Lotus Water – If you are staying in an area for a while, buy a big bottle of water and fill it up from the water machines outside the supermarkets like Lotus, costing 1 baht per liter. This will save you quite a bit on water bottles that normally cost 30+ baht in-store.

22. Visit the side streets – head down side streets and alleys to find the cheapest street food and often the tastiest. This is often where locals can be seen picking up food and you should follow their lead!

23. Drink the local beer – Singha, Tiger, and Leo are all considerably cheaper than imported brands so stick to them when drinking out in bars and restaurants. Also, check out the Facebook pages of western bars to find their happy hours; ideal if you are looking to save money and have a drink or two.

24. Travel by train – Trains are the cheapest way to travel long distances across Thailand but take some time and offer less comfort than buses. Compare train journeys on 12Go.Asia , with various routes, classes, and ticket prices available. You can also check out overnight train options to save even more money.

25. Skip the Guidebooks – I love a good guidebook and will always find the extra cash to buy at least one and read it from front to back and back to front before a trip. When visiting Asia, the best information I found about traveling to Thailand was online at various different travel blogs and youtube videos. Skip the guidebook for Thailand because everything you need to know can be found online.

Plus, one of my favorite things to do in Thailand is just to wander. Around every corner, there will be something unique and interesting.

26. Fly AirAsia – We aren’t big fans of the overnight buses and long train journeys and if you’re not either then check out the flights on AirAsia.com . We managed to get Bangkok to Phuket flights for just 1000 baht (£20). Don’t miss out on the beautiful islands of Thailand like the  beaches of Krabi and Koh Lanta .

As always, compare flights on Skyscanner then check prices directly on the Air Asia website. The website often does flash sales too, if you want to get very cheap flights.

27. Shopping Mall food courts – You can find shopping malls all over Thailand with so many scattered around the Sukhumvit area in Bangkok. These malls often included food courts that serve delicious meals usually including a drink for under 100 baht (£2).

28. Work – Working in Thailand

without the correct Visa is illegal but if you want to stay in Thailand for an extended period of time then you can take an online TEFL course

and bag yourself a job over there. If you speak English well and are from an English Speaking country, you could earn upwards of 50,000 baht a month.

29. Avoid Khao San Road – Unfortunately, this infamous road is no longer the cheap hub of Bangkok so avoid staying in this area or drinking in this area. Some of the pubs in this area are great for happy hours but you’ll find cheaper and better drinks in the Sukhumvit area. Also, the food stalls here are overpriced and often, of lesser quality than other food stalls in the city.

30. Take advantage of the happy hours – Most bars and restaurants in Thailand offer some type of happy hour for you to take advantage of. Wander from one bar to the next during their happy hour times and enjoy!

Most beautiful places to visit in Thailand

Budget Thailand FAQ

How much should I budget for a trip to Thailand?

If you are staying in hostels, eating local food, and sticking to free attractions in Bangkok and Thailand, you can plan to spend ฿2000 a day; $64 or £45. 

Is Thailand a cheap place to visit?

Thailand is a much cheaper destination than places in Europe and North America but visiting in the high season ca expensive (compared to other Asia destinations) when visiting the islands. 

How much does it cost for 10 days in Thailand?

When sticking to these budget Thailand trips, you can expect to spend around ฿28,000 for 10 days in Thailand (or $900). It is possible to spend as little as $600 if you are staying in hostels in Northern Thailand or the less touristy beaches. 

What is the cheapest month to fly to Thailand?

September, October and April are cheaper months to fly to Thailand with January, November and December being the most expensive time to fly to Thailand. 

What is the best airline to fly to Thailand?

Depending on where you are flying from, there are lots of different airlines to choose from when flying to Thailand. Via the UK, you can use British Airways whilst Eva Air have affordable rates throughout the year. 

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17 Best Thailand On A Budget Travel Tips And Tricks (2024)

• Updated on January 2, 2024
• Tips and Tricks

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Why thailand is such a great cost-friendly destination.

As a seasoned traveler and a Thailand local, I can assure you the Land of Smiles tops the list as one of the most budget-friendly destinations worldwide! It offers stunning value, making it an unmatched paradise for thrifty wanderers like us.

There are plentiful reasons that substantiate the affordable charm of Thailand. From heavenly yet inexpensive street food to pocket-friendly accommodations, Thailand welcomes everyone.

The affordability extends to the transportation facilities, ensuring you can explore the farthest corners without denting your wallet.

• Exploring awe-inspiring and free-of-cost temples is a favorite activity among travelers.
• Delectable street food, with dishes starting from under a dollar, promises a gastronomic adventure without breaking the bank.
• Easy-on-the-pocket night markets offer treasures to take back, with bargaining as the cherry on top!
• Inexpensive local transport services will make your journey to places like the turquoise islands or green hills as pleasant as the destinations themselves.

Indeed, by setting foot in Thailand, every globetrotter can experience its rich culture without overspending.

In this article, I’ve prepared 17 Amazing Tips and Tricks for Traveling to Thailand On A Budget.

Let’s dive in!

17 Best Tips And Tricks for Traveling Thailand On A Budget

1. travel during the low season.

The season when you travel will have the highest impact on your Thailand travel budget. Visiting during the low season can cut your cost in half.

It’s a budget traveler’s dream, with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations and flights.

Here’s how you do it:

• Plan your trip between May and October. Do note it’s the rainy season, so expect short sun-showers almost daily. They are quick and refreshing, so it’s not a big deal, in my opinion.
• Try negotiating rates for hotels and hostels; it’s off-peak, and there are vacant rooms waiting!
• Use your charm and local language skills in bargaining. Learn a few words in Thai and be pleasant and respectful. Thrifty travel is an art, after all.
• And don’t panic about the rainfall. Some of the best Thai festivals, like Visakha Bucha and Asahna Bucha Day , happen during the low season. Even with a little drizzle, these colorful and cultural showcases are worth every minute.

With fewer crowds and lower prices, you can adventure on a budget and still have a crazy, unforgettable experience!

2. Create a budget and stick to it

Creating and adhering to a budget is absolutely crucial when planning a trip to the fantastic Thailand – the travel destination known for its affordably rich experiences!

With careful planning and smart choices, your trip can be both budget-friendly and unforgettable.

Here’s how:

• Start by defining a daily spending limit. Based on personal accounts, one can manage to traverse Thailand as low as $30 per day.
• You can use a free Spending app to keep track of your expenses and if you are leaning over or under budget.
• Save at least six months in advance to handle significant expenses before your trip commences. This lessens the burden of surprise costs.
• Not all expenses are included in your daily budget. For example, you may have to purchase some items ahead of your trip.
• Optimize your spending by embracing local experiences, such as taking local buses, enjoying street food, and drinking local beer.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy without overspending!

3. Travel to the North of Thailand

Let your wanderlust be fulfilled, and your pockets stay filled as you explore North Thailand – your one-stop destination for breathtaking views, exotic culture, and endless adventure on a budget.

• Choosing to visit the North of Thailand in cities like Chiang Mai, Pai, or Chiang Rai can cut your spending by 30-50% compared to islands like Koh Samui or Phuket.
• Start your journey in Chiang Mai, an old city known for its serene temples, vibrant markets, delectable street food, and laid-back vibes. Skip pricy tour packages: explore on foot or rent a bike for a few dollars a day.
• Venture into the jungle with affordable treks launching from Chiang Mai. Be sure to visit the local elephant sanctuary. It’s regarded as one of Thailand’s best while being remarkably cheap.
• Take in the stunning beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park, a gem not overrun by tourists. Viator.com offers top-notch tours and accommodations without breaking the bank.
• Immerse yourself in Thai culture during Songkran, the Thai New Year celebrated in April. You’ll experience unforgettable joy in this grand water fight, and it’s absolutely free!

Prepare to be captivated by North Thailand, a paradise for budget travelers.

Related Article: Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai .

4. Stay at affordable accommodations

Oh boy, isn’t traveling in Thailand a blast for your buck? From drool-inducing street food to exotic sights, every penny saved on accommodations means more adventures.

Explore a broad range of affordable options: hostels, budget hotels, and charming guesthouses.

To grab top-notch deals, and yes, they do exist, use Booking.com , which I find pretty convenient with their free cancelation options.

Want more savings? Group travels or sharing rooms can trim down costs big time! Camping and homestays in rural areas also add a zesty flavor to your cultural immersion while saving some greens.

• Budget Hotels: A social scene, rates start from as low as $10/night. Just remember to book in advance.
• Local guesthouses: Rustic, private rooms with local charm at virtually the same price as two hostel beds, a steal for couples.
• Hostels: Fun places to meet fellow budgeteers at very low prices. I use HostelWorld.com to book.

Remember, a wise traveler never compromises on experiences, only on expenses!

Hair Tools Travel Bag

5. eat at local restaurants.

Local restaurants in Thailand are a tantalizing treat for every budget traveler. Not only do they offer an affordable way to explore the country’s finest cuisine, they also serve a heaping side of authentic Thai culture with every meal.

Here’s your recipe for gastronomic success:

• Look out for bustling local eateries with a crowd of Thai patrons— that’s a sign of good food!
• Dish out your dollars for local favorites like pat tai noodles, chicken satay, and Tom Yam soup.
• Skip pricey tourist spots with Western menus. Instead, feast on local Thai dishes for just $1.50-3USD per meal at charming street stalls and tiny restaurants.
• Use apps like Eatigo for discounted meals and ask locals for hidden culinary gems.

Scour the streets, taste the local flavors, and live the Thai life– with a happy heart and fuller wallet.

6. Find free or cheap activities

Maximize your travel experience in Thailand without breaking the bank! Combine planning and spontaneity to discover a wealth of free and low-cost activities.

• Embrace the abundant free attractions such as temples, parks, and marketplaces. Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but they also allow a deeper understanding of the culture.
• Find walking or food tours on TripAdvisor; they list their entire itinerary, then just use Google Maps to navigate and do it yourself for free.
• Download local apps like Eatigo for dining discounts, Klook and Trazy for ticket deals on attractions.
• Traveling in groups? Seek out shared tours or group discounts to cut expenses on entry fees and transportation.
• Lastly, leverage the knowledge of locals for insider details on hidden gems. Check out Couchsurfing meet-ups for this purpose.

Thailand has one free activity in abundance: check out Thailand’s Best Beaches .

7. Get a local SIM card with data

Using your phone with your home network on Roamning will be very expensive in Thailand. Instead, grab a local SIM card for easy, affordable connectivity!

Hunting down a Thai SIM card with a prepaid plan packed with generous data allowances saves you big bucks. It’s an absolute game-changer!

Bagging one is simple:

• The main carriers in Thailand are AIS, TrueH Mobile, and Dtac; any of their pre-paid plans will be good.
• Bring your passport with you; they will want a copy of it.
• You can find SIM cards at the airport when you land, but they will be more expensive.
• If possible, head to a local mall, BigC supermarket, or 7-Eleven and get your SIM there. Don’t shy away; ask for their cost-effective prepaid plans.
• Ensure your phone is not carrier-locked, pop that card into your smartphone, begin the plan, and voila, you’re connected!

Stay connected and save money.

You will also enjoy My Top Thailand Travel Tips .

8. Use travel apps and book in advance

Traveling on a budget to Thailand can be a magical experience, and you can save big just by using nifty travel apps and booking in advance!

These two tricks are game-changers in managing your spending while ensuring an enjoyable trip.

• Start by downloading local travel apps such as Booking , Agoda , and AirBnb for discounts and price comparisons.
• Group travels or shared tours could slash costs on transportation and entry fees.
• Love free breakfasts? Let’s not forget to book hostels that offer them!
• For comfortable, budget-friendly commutes, use Grab , InDrive , or Bolt instead of taxis.
• If the city lacks these, ensure your taxi driver uses the meter.
• For a cherry on top, book motorbikes through Grab for fixed, non-negotiable fares, which generally save money.
• Use the Viator app to find the best deals on trips and excursions.
• And finally, book your activities in advance if possible. You reserve your spot and save money.

These tips can dramatically transform your Thai travel into a budget-friendly wonder!

9. Avoid popular tourist attractions and traps

Popular tourist activities tend to be more expensive and usually overrated. Stay off the beaten path, and you’re in for a real treat.

Tourist traps are also a sure way to empty your budget in one quick swoop, so they should be avoided.

Here are some common ones to keep in mind:

• If people approach you speaking excellent English near a popular attraction, such as the Royal Palace, telling you it’s closed, ignore them and move on. It’s usually a scam.
• Places like Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok are not hidden gems anymore, they are expensive tourist traps.
• Unmetered taxis? No thank you! Look for another cab that is willing to use the meter.
• Large group tours? Pass!

How do we avoid these places? Check their Reviews on Google and Trip Advisor. And ask locals for the real hidden gems.

Tap into insider knowledge and experience Thailand without draining your wallet.

10. Use budget transport options

Taking advantage of Thailand’s budget transport options is a surefire way to conserve money during your travel.

These cost-effective solutions allow you to immerse deeply into the local culture and explore Thailand like never before!

Let’s make travel fun and affordable with these options:

• Hop on public buses or third-class train carriages for intercity trips.
• Experience the nightlife on a slow overnight train, saving on hotel costs.
• Choose economic Baw Khaw Saw (BKS) state buses over private ones.
• For short journeys, opt for eight-seater shuttle buses.
• While in cities, use Bangkok’s BTS train line or book a Grab taxi.
• If you need to fly, use low-cost airlines like Thai Air Asia and Thai VietJet.

Remember, the slower you travel, the less you spend! Whether it’s a bustling city or a countryside foray, savor each moment.

11. Bargain with dignity with street vendors

The art of bargaining in Thailand can transform your shopping experience and stretch your budget.

Done right, it’s a great way to engage with the local culture, find fantastic deals, and make your trip more memorable.

• It’s well known that many street vendors have a price for locals and a much higher one for tourists, so haggling will help you get to the real price.
• Haggle with dignity and choose your battle wisely. If a water bottle costs 30 Bath, don’t bother trying to haggle with the vendor. Remember, their salary is about $300 per month.
• If you are buying more expensive items, such as clothes, begin your haggling with a smile. Nothing paves the way for better discounts like a friendly demeanor.
• Learning key Thai phrases, especially for numbers and bargaining, can give you an edge. By showing respect for their language and culture, vendors may be more inclined to offer discounts.
• When shopping at famous markets like Chatuchak or local spots like Pak Khlong Talat, aim to negotiate at about 50% and haggle from there. Never go too low, though. It can come off as offensive.

Some of my priceless finds here have been the result of good-natured haggling.

Remember, it’s less about winning and more about understanding the cultural dynamics at play.

12. Rent a scooter, but be careful

Renting a scooter is an affordable and exhilarating way to explore Thailand’s scenic views!

A seemingly daunting task like this can turn into the highlight of your Thailand adventure, but you have to be careful.

Here are my top tips:

• Check your bike meticulously before hitting the road; note any damage or dents to avoid trouble later. Take many pictures and even a video at the rental agency.
• Do NOT leave your passport as collateral with the rental agency. Leave a photocopy and cash instead.
• Remember, safety is paramount! Thailand has alarmingly high traffic accident rates, so always wear a helmet, drive cautiously, and have your driver’s license on you in case you get stopped.
• Brace yourself; the costs are surprisingly pocket-friendly! Gear up for a ride for as low as 150 Bath (US$4.50) per day and budget-friendly petrol prices around 40B (US$1.20) per liter.
• To ensure a secure experience, opt for reliable travel insurance. Based on my experience, SafetyWing does a commendable job!

Embrace the thrill and navigate the town on two wheels, but always put safety first!

If you want to try an epic two-wheel trip, check out the Mae Hong Son Loop in the North of Thailand.

13. Join Facebook groups to find free activities

Joining Facebook groups can unlock a trove of tips, personalized recommendations, and free activities for budget travelers in Thailand.

It’s like having an insider’s guide at your fingertips, spiced up with real-time updates and interaction with locals or fellow travelers.

Go to Facebook and search for groups with keywords like “Thailand free activities” or “Thailand budget travel”. Join the groups that seem most active and engaging.

You’ll find a cornucopia of suggestions:

• Free walking tours
• Volunteering opportunities
• Visiting local markets
• Exploring Buddhist temples
• Couchsurfing meet-ups
• Group visits to National Parks
• Beach exploring

This isn’t just cost-saving; it’s immersion at its best! Remember to engage, ask questions, and share your experiences too!

14. Local convenience stores are your best friend

In Thailand, your budget traveler’s best friend is undoubtedly the omnipresent local convenience stores.

These stores, like the popular 7-Eleven and Family Mart, are treasure troves of economic offerings.

Not only do they present an array of mouth-watering snacks like ham and cheese croissants, rice burgers, and tantalizing sweet buns, but they also fulfill your early morning breakfast cravings without burning a hole in your pocket.

But here’s the kicker – their alcohol prices! They are an absolute steal, especially for local beer brands like Singha or Chang.

And don’t forget about essentials like large water bottles – a boon in a country where tap water is not fit for drinking.

So, next time you’re in Thailand, step into a local convenience store and unveil a world of affordable delights!

15. Use travel hacks and points

Want to explore Thailand without breaking the bank? Let me enthuse you about the game-changing power of travel hacks and points!

Start by scouring the web for credit card bonuses. Websites like Nerd Wallet or The Points Guy are great starting resources.

Many credit cards have bonus signup points if you spend a minimum amount in the first few months. Apply for those credit cards, pay for your flights, and use them for groceries to meet the minimum.

With strategic planning, those points will quickly stack. Then, redeem the bonus points for free hotel stays and activities.

Here is what to look for when choosing the right Cards:

• For Credit Cards, choose Chase or Bank of America Travel Credit Cards.
• Look at the signup bonuses and choose the best one at the time.
• Ensure they do not have foreign transaction fees or yearly fees.

Trust me, with these hacks and the smart use of points, Thailand can become your budget-friendly paradise!

16. Get a bank card with no foreign transaction fees

Managing money well is crucial when you’re globetrotting on a tight budget, especially in Thailand.

Grabbing a bank card with zero foreign transaction fees is one of the smartest money moves you can make.

Thailand has an amazing banking infrastructure with QR codes and direct transfers, but without having a local bank account, we are still stuck with using Cash, so the ATM will be your best friend.

Local ATMs charge a small withdrawal fee of 220 Bath, but the foreign transaction fees and conversion fees are what will really add up.

Here’s how to avoid them:

• For Debit Cards, choose an account with no foreign transaction fees. I use the Capital One 360 Checking Account, with no monthly fees and no foreign ATM fees.
• Withdraw larger sums at a time (20,000 Bath) to minimize the ATM fee, but don’t keep it all on you. Keep most of the cash in your hotel safe and carry 1,000-2,000 Bath for daily Expenses.
• When asked at the ATM, always decline the local currency conversion. This way, your home bank will do the conversion, and you will get a much better rate. (This can save you 5-10%)

17. Make some money while you travel

When it comes to extending your vacation in Thailand, you can try to save as much as you can to make your budget last longer, or you can try to make some extra money.

I highly recommend trying the latter; it will give you a taste of freedom and working remotely, and it might turn into something bigger.

Since you are already in a beautiful place, take advantage of it to make some extra travel money.

Here are some ideas:

• Photography. Your phone is already full of beautiful pics, so why not post them for sale or licensing?
• Social Media Management. You are already sharing so much of your journey and learning about managing social media; you can do it for others and charge a monthly fee.
• Content Writing. Imagine chilling in a tranquil mountain town like Pai; why not use the inspiration and write some blog posts for a quick payday?
• Online Influencer. If you have a decent following on Instagram or TikTok, you can reach out to local hotels to create a post, story, or TikTok about your experience. Even with a few hundred followers, you can earn a free night’s stay.

With dedication and a dash of creativity, your travel expenses will take a thrilling dive!

Can you do Thailand on a budget?

Absolutely, you can indeed travel through Thailand on a budget! The beauty of a trip to Thailand lies in how flexible it can be in terms of costs.

For instance, you can opt to explore Thailand by starting your journey in Bangkok – the city known for its top attractions at pocket-friendly prices.

Then, take a night bus or train and travel north to Chiang Mai, a dream for budget-conscious travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy authentic Thai street food, which is flavorsome and very affordable.

Take public transport to keep costs low and benefit from the spirited, backpacker-friendly environment.

Be sure to try different experiences like visiting the local markets or the famous temples – they’re budget-friendly and give you a real taste of Thai culture.

What are the most popular budget destinations in Thailand?

If you’re on a mission to explore a paradise without breaking the bank, Thailand has got your back. It stands as a testament that the best things in life come on a budget!

• Bang on the bustling streets of Bangkok , where exceptionally cheap delights await. Food stalls sprinkle the sidewalks, offering amazing cuisine at a fraction of the price.
• Head on North, where the green hills of Chiang Mai provide an aesthetically pleasing sight without the hefty price tag. Bonus: You’ll find temples to visit without splurging!
• Down South to the Thai islands , slightly pricier but still budget-friendly. Picture turquoise waters and sublime seafood, all within means!

So, are you ready to make unforgettable memories in Thailand without rendering you penniless?

Ensure you have everything you need on your trip with my Complete Thailand Packing List .

Is $500 dollars enough for a week in Thailand?

Yes! With mindful spending, $500 is enough for an enjoyable week in Thailand on a backpacker’s budget.

Here is the breakdown:

• Average daily expenditure: $30-$40, totaling up to $280 for a week if you steer clear of high-cost excursions. This will get you a stay in a Hostel and delicious Thai street food.
• There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Thailand: Temples, Nature Walk, Hiking and Trekking.
• Allocating $100 for entertainment activities allows you to enjoy sunset beers and even major activities such as a cooking lesson.
• Personal wellness items such as snacks, laundry, and toiletries can round up to a total of about $23 per week.
• With the remaining balance, you can opt for a dive into the local culture or maybe a spa retreat.

Conclusively, you can have a fantastic time in Thailand’s diverse offerings within a $500 budget for a week.

What are some budget accommodation options in Thailand?

Thailand is a paradise for budget travelers, boasting an abundance of wallet-friendly places to stay.

With options ranging from gorgeous guest houses to lively hostels, you’re sure to find something to suit your budget and traveling style.

• Hostels: With countless hostels scattered across Thailand, these gems are perfect for the thrifty traveler. The average price for a dorm room falls between $6 to $12 per night. Expect comfy beds and a vibrant, social atmosphere.
• Guesthouses: Ready for a touch of local charm? Guesthouses provide private rooms at affordable rates. You’re also supporting the local economy, as these establishments are usually family-operated.
• Budget Hotels: Keep an eye out for discounted rates on sites like Booking.com and Agoda! These sites often feature budget hotels that won’t break the bank.

Whether you’re backpacking or planning a longer stay, you can navigate Thailand without splurging on accommodation.

What are the best ways to get around Thailand on a budget?

Getting around Thailand on a budget is fun and easy and lets you experience the local lifestyle.

Here’s how you can make it budget-friendly and exciting:

• Opt for buses: They are the cheapest option and fine for short journeys.
• Utilize Bangkok’s BTS train line or Grab taxi: More reliable and cost-effective than traditional cabs, with fares ranging from $0.50-2.00.
• Overnight buses and trains: Perfect to save on a night’s accommodation and reach your inter-city destinations.
• Use local transport like Songthaews and Tuk-Tuks: A well-connected, authentic, and cheap way to experience Thailand.
• Travel during the Low Season: Get the best flight and accommodation deals during this time.

What are the best free or cheap attractions to visit in Thailand?

There’s no shortage of free or affordable attractions in Thailand that wonderfully reflect its vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty.

From royal palaces to lush national parks, here’s how you can maximize your experiences with minimal cost:

• Go royal at the historic Grand Palace and Wat Pho , home to a 15th-century Emerald Buddha and a monumental 150-foot reclining Buddha, respectively. Back-to-back visits can cost you less than $25!
• Hiking in the breathtaking Khao Sok National Park is a must for just $6. Make sure to check out the sunset—it’s surreal!
• Journey through the ancient capitals —Sukhothai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya, each with its unique charm and historical tale.
• Head off to Thailand’s tropical islands. Some of them are beautifully isolated with idyllic beaches and crystal clear water. Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are at the top of the list for backpackers.

Remember, Thailand’s rich experience is more about the journey and less about the price!

Made by travelers, for travelers, check out the Barefoot Caribou Products below!

Making the most of your trip to Thailand on a budget

Related Article: The Best Places to Visit in Thailand .

Wow! What a ride it has been, taking you through the nuances of budget travel in Thailand for 2024.

This guide was packed with nuggets of wisdom to make your journey as light on the wallet as it is in spirit.

If I missed anything, be sure to add it in the comments below!

Remember, we are out to not just save but to live and enjoy the journey!

Happy traveling!

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Thailand On A Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about visiting Thailand on a budget!

Thailand is truly a budget traveler’s dream.

It’s a gorgeous place, the locals are so nice, the culture is interesting, and everything is cheap!

Literally everything is cheap. Accommodation, transportation, food, drinks, tours, and anything else you could possibly need is affordable in Thailand.

So if you’re looking for beautiful and cheap countries to visit, Thailand is one of the best places to go!

This article will explain how to visit Thailand on a budget.

Even though everything is pretty cheap here, there are still ways to save money in Thailand.

But if you wanted to splurge on nice hotels and fancy dinners, you would still spend less than you would in places like Europe, North America, or Oceania.

So here are my best budget travel tips for Thailand, based on personal experience.

How To Visit Thailand On A Budget

I’ll include a brief overview of a Thailand trip cost, as well as tips for saving money on accommodation, transport, food, and more.

Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht. 32 Baht = 1 USD.

Just to make it easier, I’ll list all costs in USD.

Read next: 50 Budget Travel Tips

How much money do I need for a trip to Thailand?

In my experience, I traveled around Thailand for one month and I spent about $2,000 USD . That includes flights, accommodation, and everything else.

My friend and I stuck to a backpacker budget, staying in hostels and eating street food often.

We also didn’t hold back on anything. We paid for lots of fun tours, the Half Moon Party, a Thai cooking class, a day at an elephant sanctuary, and even spent one night in a nice hotel.

Normally when I travel I like to do work exchanges to save money on accommodation and have a cool cultural experience.

But for this trip to Thailand, my friend and I were 100% just having fun, being tourists, and doing it all without restrictions. And $2,000 USD for everything included is pretty cheap!

Here is a quick breakdown of that 2 Grand so you have an idea of what things cost:

• Round Trip flight from NYC to Bangkok: $800 USD
• Accommodation: $300 USD (Average $10 USD per night)
• Domestic flights: $300 USD
• Food, tours, and everything else: $600 USD

This is a super rough estimate, but that’s the general idea.

Now I’ll get into the specifics for traveling Thailand on a budget!

Flights & Transport in Thailand

Depending on where you are traveling from, flights may be your biggest expense.

I’m from Boston, USA, which is super far from southeast Asia. Our round-trip flight cost around $800 USD, which is as cheap as it gets to fly to the opposite side of the globe.

Once we made it to Thailand, transport within the country was very affordable.

How To Find Cheap Flights To Thailand

How did we find such cheap flights to Thailand?

• Use Skyscanner
• Travel off season
• Fly budget airlines

First, we searched flights on Skyscanner . I’ve written a whole article about using Skyscanner because I love it so much. It allows you to keep your search open-ended, so you can see the cheapest time to fly.

Because our travel dates were flexible, we were able to plan our trip around the cheapest flight dates.

Traveling during the off season is another super important budget travel tip for Thailand.

We visited Thailand in August, which is the height of the monsoon season. Because the climate is generally more hot, humid, and rainy, tourism drops and flight prices decrease.

Peak tourist season is November – April. The weather is better and everything is more crowded.

Traveling Thailand in August was great because the crowds weren’t bad, it honestly didn’t even rain that much, and we found that super cheap flight!

Cheap Transport Within Thailand

When traveling between two destinations in Thailand, I recommend checking Rome2Rio .

This website is super helpful for comparing transport methods. Put in your start and end cities, and the website will compare cost and travel time of flights, trains, buses, ferries, driving, biking, and anything else.

That way to you can determine the cheapest way to travel around.

For traveling around the country, we booked mainly domestic flights between major cities.

Thailand has lots of great budget airlines that have domestic flights for anywhere between $20 – $60 USD. We flew from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and Bangkok to Phuket for just over $20 USD.

If you’re short on time, quick domestic flights are great for hopping from one part of Thailand to the other. Check out these budget airlines for cheap flights:

• Thai Lion Air
• Bangkok Airways
• Thai Air Asia
• VietJet Airways

Read next: How To Find The Cheapest Flights Abroad

Ground Tranportation

Most transport in Thailand, like buses, taxis, tuk tuks, songtaews, and minivans, is all cheap.

Buses are most commonly used by locals, and I didn’t even need to take any public buses during my stay.

For longer journeys, I found shared minivans to be the cheapest and most comfortable.

Songtaews are also popular. These are red pick up trucks with long benches in the back. They are like shared taxis and the more people you cram into the back, the cheaper the journey is for everyone.

Songtaews are convenient for day trips outside Chiang Mai or Bangkok, especially if you have a big group.

For transport within a city, and for traveling short distances, taxis or tuk tuks are cheap.

Obviously walking is free, so if you can try to explore on foot. But if you need to hop in a taxi or tuk tuk, you won’t spend more than a couple of dollars.

When island hopping in Thailand, you’ll have to take ferries.

Luckily ferries in Thailand run often and they’re cheap. Most ferries cost between 5 and 20 USD per journey.

You can usually just buy your ticket at the ferry station right before you travel.

There is no need to book ferry tickets in advance. But if you want to ensure they don’t sell out, just buy your ferry ticket the day before from a local tourism office.

Budget Accommodation in Thailand

When you visit Thailand, or any country for that matter, accommodation is usually the biggest expense (after flights).

But Thailand is so cheap that accommodation doesn’t cost much.

As I mentioned earlier, I spent about $300 USD on accommodation for one month in Thailand. That’s an average of $10 USD per night.

Here is exactly how to find budget accommodation in Thailand.

Stay In Hostels

There are so many incredible hostels in Thailand!

Some cost as little as 6 USD per night for a dorm bed. The average is more like 8 or 9 USD per night , and you definitely won’t have to pay more than 15 USD per night.

Private rooms cost a bit more, maybe around $20 USD per night.

But if you browse Hostelworld and choose hostels with lots of positive reviews, you’ll find some amazing places to stay in Thailand.

My friend and I met so many cool people in hostels, and they are perfect for finding other travelers to share transport and tours with.

Lots of hostels also have their own pub crawls, tours, and excursions. We stayed in 8 different Thailand hostels and had a great experience at every single one!

Do A Work Exchange

Another one of the best tips for how to travel Thailand on a budget is doing a work exchange.

Working in exchange for accommodation is an amazing way to save money. You also get to have a super cool experience living with and learning from locals.

Read more about this in my Ultimate Guide To Work Exchange !

As I said earlier, I personally didn’t do a work exchange in Thailand. But I’ve done them in lots of other countries, and this is the cheapest and most exciting way to travel in my experience.

Visit Worldpackers to view work exchanges in Thailand (and use my promo code GABBY for 10 USD off your membership.

How To Visit Thailand On A Budget: Food, Drinks, and Attractions

This next section will cover how to eat, drink, and explore Thailand on a budget.

Food and Drinks

Thailand has some of the best food in the world, and there is no better place to enjoy Thai food than right at the source.

Luckily for budget travelers, food and drinks are all cheap in Thailand. You can eat out often and party without spending too much money. I’ll now highlight some things to know about eating and drinking in Thailand.

Of course, the cheapest way to eat is to use your hostel kitchen to cook your own meals. But Thai food is so yummy that I recommend eating out at street markets or local restaurants often.

Street Food

Southeast Asia is famous for its street food. Indulge in it at every opportunity!

From fresh fruit smoothies, to meat skewers, to pad Thai, spring rolls, papaya salad, and much more, this is the best way to try all the local dishes. Street markets are also the cheapest places to eat in Thailand. A small plate costs 1 USD or less.

Restaurants

Eating out in restaurants is pretty affordable. Of course, small local restaurants out of the touristy areas will have more authentic food and cheaper prices. A meal here costs 1-3 USD .

Big touristy restaurants will serve a lot of Western food in addition to Thai food. A meal here costs closer to 5 USD .

Drinking is actually a bit pricey in Thailand. A large bottle of beer from 7-11 costs around 2 or 3 USD, the same as a meal. Imported alcohol is expensive. But in touristy towns, bars and clubs often have happy hours with cheap cocktails.

Thailand is also famous for “drunk buckets”, which are plastic colorful buckets of mixed drink or cocktail. They’re cheap and perfect for partying. Just keep your bucket on you at all times to ensure no one messes with it.

Thai Cooking Classes

Even if youre traveling Thailand on a budget, I highly recommend doing a Thai cooking class. Especially if you’re a real food lover!

Cooking classes in Thailand usually include a tour of the local market to buy ingredients, a detailed class on how to cook classic Thai dishes, and of course you get to eat all the food you make.

You’ll usually cook spring rolls, soup, stir fry, curry, and a Thai dessert like mango sticky rice or fried bananas. Definitely show up to your cooking class on an empty stomach!

Most Thai cooking classes cost around 40-50 USD , but ask at your hostel if there are any cheaper local companies. The money is so worth it, as this was one of my favorite activities from my month in Thailand.

Enjoy Free Attractions

Luckily, many attractions in Thailand are free. Stick to mainly free activities and you’ll definitely save money while traveling.

The following Thailand attractions and activities are usually free:

Temples: Most temples have no entry fee (except for some famous ones, such as the Grand Palace in Bangkok)

Waterfalls: Take a cheap songtaew to the Sticky Waterfalls in Chiang Mai , a cheap and amazing day trip!

Beaches: Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy Thailand’s beaches for free

Street Markets: Of course it costs money to buy things, but just browsing the street markets is entertaining

Hiking: Excluding transport and entry to famous places like Doi Inthanon National Park , most hikes are free

Other Popular Thailand Attractions

Even if you’re trying to travel on a budget, don’t miss out on any cool experiences.

Thailand is so affordable that you can splurge on lots of epic adventures and still not spend much money.

Some popular things to do in Thailand include:

• Attend a Muay Thai boxing match
• Watch a Ladyboy cabaret performance
• Visit the Floating Market near Bangkok
• Take a boat tour in the islands
• Attend the Full Moon Party or Half Moon Party
• Go kayaking in the islands
• Rent a motorbike in the highlands
• Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

All of these adventures are part of the backpacking Thailand experience. And though they cost money, they are still very cheap and so worth it.

The most expensive will probably be visiting an Elephant Sanctuary. Because you want to visit somewhere ethical and reputable, it’s worth paying more for a good experience.

Read about my experience here: Bonding With Elephants In Thailand .

Most other activities, like boat tours, kayaking tours, and floating market tours, only cost around 30-50 USD. An equivalent tour in a more expensive country could easily cost over 100 USD.

Tickets to a Muay Thai boxing match or a Ladyboy cabaret only cost around 20 USD.

Don’t be afraid to splurge in Thailand because everything is so cheap!

Now you know how to visit Thailand on a budget!

Thanks for reading! Thailand is one of my favorite countries and the month that I spent there was absolutely incredible. Everything was affordable and I was able to do so much fun stuff for so cheap.

I’ll always recommend Thailand to any other budget travelers.

For more articles budget travel tips, check out these articles:

How To Save Money For Travel

How To Afford Traveling the World in Your 20s

Budget Traveler’s Guide to Travel Insurance

15 Travel Essentials To Always Add To Your Packing List

22 Solo Travel Tips: How To Travel The World Alone

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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11 thoughts on “ Thailand On A Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide ”

Thank you so very much for sharing information about Thailand I’m planning to visit the beginning of April.

Thanks for reading! Have an amazing visit in Thailand!

Thanks for sharing . I’m going to Thailand October . Staying in Bangkok for 2 days and going to Krabi for 12 days

Awesome!! You’ll be able to do lots of day trips to the gorgeous islands around Krabi, enjoy!

Thank you for sharing. We are going to Bangkok, this week – first time in Asia.

Bangkok was my first stop in Asia as well! Enjoy!

A quick question,

Is it easy to cook your own food in Thailand’s hostels or is it really impractical? Are hostels prepared for their guests to cook? Or, since tourists always eat street food, they don’t offer the proper conditions for cooking.

If you could give me your perspective, I’d be grateful.

Hey! It just depends on the hostel. I cooked plenty of meals in hostels during my stay in Thailand. Just read each hostel description in-depth before booking and you can see if there are kitchen facilities or not.

Thanks for your quick reply. If you were able to cook that’s all I needed to hear.

Hi Gabby, I’m interested in visiting Thailand 🇹🇭, but I have some dietary restrictions. Can you please let me know if it’s possible to find halal food there? Having this information would help me make a decision and plan my trip accordingly. Thank you so much for your help!

Hi! I don’t have any experience with halal in Thailand but I was vegetarian when I visited and found it really easy to eat with those restrictions. I would recommend looking up how to ask for halal food in Thai so you can try to communicate that with the staff at restaurants, or if you stick to touristy areas you’re more likely to find staff that speak English and can advise if the food is halal or not. Hope that helps!

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Thailand Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Thailand, a country famous for its Buddhist temples and flavorful cuisine, can be visited with a  budget of $35 to $80 a day.

My nearly two-week trip to Thailand cost a total of $1,138 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category
• 📍 My trip’s costs by destination

Planning a trip? Here’s what to know about Thailand .

• Is Thailand Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• Thailand vs. Vietnam Costs
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $77
• Flight: $218
• Accommodation: $211
• Transportation: $233
• Entertainment: $381
• Bangkok: $170
• Chiang Mai: $392
• Krabi/Ao Nang: $357
• Withdrawing Cash
• How Much Cash To Bring
• Credit Card Places
• Tipping Etiquette

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Thailand Expensive To Travel To?

Thailand ranks as  one of the most affordable  destinations in Asia. It has a relatively low cost of living, a wide range of accommodation options that fit different budgets, and a lively, cheap street food scene.

Along with Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, Thailand is often considered an inexpensive destination  in Southeast Asia.

💰 Trip Daily Budget for Destinations in Asia

For comparison, I visited these countries in Asia within a year of visiting Thailand, and here’s how much I spent per day at each one:

*My Cambodia daily budget is high because I splurged on accommodation.

See all my daily budget for each destination I’ve visited .

How Much Is a Trip to Thailand?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Thailand Trip Cost

Budget travelers can expect to spend approximately $35 per day or $245 for seven days of travel in Thailand, excluding flights.

Here’s what a budget traveler’s cost breakdown can look like:

Traveling Thailand on a Budget

To travel to Thailand on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏠 Accommodation – For the cheapest option, stay at a  dorm-style hostel for as low as $5 a night . You can also stay at homestays where you can stay with a local family for about $12 a night.
• 🚗 Transportation – Take local buses, which can cost less than $1 per trip, or $2 songthaews, which are red passenger trucks that are common local transportation.

In Bangkok, public transportation (e.g., the MRT and BTS Skytrain) can cost less than $2 per ride . The city’s train is convenient for getting to and from Bangkok International Airport.

• 🌶️ Food – Eat at night markets and try local food at street stalls for less than $4 per meal. I ate six times at night markets in Chiang Mai and Krabi and averaged $5 per meal without trying to budget.

Tap water is generally unsafe to drink in Thailand, so you can also stock up on drinks and water at convenience stores instead of paying for them at restaurants or touristy places.

• 🐘 Entertainment – Visit free temples and monasteries instead of the famous ones with entrance fees (e.g., the famous Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace in Bangkok have a ~$15 fee). In tourist areas, you can negotiate tour prices in person instead of booking them ahead. This is especially true if you’re booking a guided tour for the next day (I did this in Krabi for the Phi Phi Islands tour, which saved me $20).
• ☀️ Travel Season – For the best deals on accommodations, travel to Thailand during the low season, which runs from April to May and July to September. April to May are the hottest months, and July to September is the wet season.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Thailand Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately $80 per day or $560 for seven days of travel in Thailand, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

Is Thailand or Vietnam More Affordable To Travel To?

People often compare Thailand to Vietnam, as they are Southeast Asia’s most popular and affordable destinations .

Thailand is, on average, slightly more expensive to travel to than Vietnam. However, affordability and cost of living vary by region within each country. Still, Thailand is a more developed country, and Vietnam’s cost of living is lower than Thailand’s.

For tourists, Thailand’s cost per day is, on average, higher than Vietnam’s. Below is a rough daily budget comparison for a mid-range budget traveler.

For a seven-day trip, you can expect to spend roughly $455 in Vietnam and $560 in Thailand.

About My Thailand Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Bangkok: 3 days
• Chiang Mai: 5 days
• Krabi (Ao Nang): 4 days
• ☀️ High season – I visited Thailand in November, which is considered the high season.

Thailand’s peak season runs from November to February, when the weather is drier and cooler.

• ✌️ Group travel – I traveled with one other person, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.
• 💵 US dollars – All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars, converted from Thailand’s local currency, the Thai baht.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = ฿ 35 at the time of writing.

Thailand Trip’s Total Cost: $1,138

My nearly two-week trip to Thailand cost a total of $1,138 , including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in this  Thailand itinerary .

💰 Cost Breakdown for Thailand

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

🗓️ Daily Budget in Thailand: $77

My Thailand trip cost $77 per day , excluding my flights from Vietnam and to Cambodia.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $80 per day in Thailand. This generally means staying at accommodations that cost about $40 per night, eating a mix of street and restaurant food, and going on several non-private guided tours.

✈️ Flight Cost to Thailand: $218

I usually take round-trip flights from the United States, but I flew into Thailand from Vietnam and out to Cambodia for this trip. Here are my flight costs:

A round-trip flight between the US and Thailand that costs under $750 is considered cheap; international flights typically cost over $850.

Be aware of bag weight limits on budget airlines that hop around Asia. I flew AirAsia and VietJet Air, and both had a combined carry-on and checked-bag limit of 7kg (about 15 lbs). If you pass this limit, you’ll have to pay an extra checked bag fee. I paid $14 per bag, but some fees were as high as $45.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Thailand: $211

My average cost of accommodation in Thailand was $18 per day. I was able to split accommodations with one other person at all times.

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

Accommodations in Thailand are incredibly affordable. You can stay at a mid-range hotel for as low as $15 per night . A private room costs as low as $10 per night at a budget hotel. Even luxury hotels, which start at $150 per night , are relatively inexpensive.

🌶️ Food Cost in Thailand: $95

My average cost of food in Thailand was $8 per day.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about  $15 per day  on food in Thailand.

Cheapest Meals in Thailand

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

Food in Thailand is extremely affordable. You can easily eat meals for $5 or less every day if you go to local restaurants, night markets, and street food stalls.

Most Expensive Meals in Thailand

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

I recommend going on a food tour early on your Thailand trip. This is the easiest and best way to discover authentic, delicious food and restaurants you can try throughout your trip.

🚗 Transportation Cost in Thailand: $233

My average cost of transportation in Thailand was $19 per day.

My average cost of transportation is high because I took two domestic flights to travel long distances within Thailand. Had I not taken any domestic flights, my average cost of transportation would have been $8 per day.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

Grab rides are almost always more affordable than flagging down a taxi or tuk-tuk in Thailand. Pro tip: use Grab prices as a baseline for negotiating with taxis or tuk-tuks when they’re more conveniently available.

🐘 Entertainment Costs in Thailand: $381

My average cost of entertainment in Thailand was $32 per day. This total includes a 5% to 15% tip at certain places.

A typical mid-range traveler in Thailand can expect to spend about  $35 a day on entertainment.

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

Learn how to choose ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand.

Cost Breakdown by Destination in Thailand

Below are my trip expense breakdowns for  Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Krabi (specifically the Ao Nang area) . Bangkok and Chiang Mai are often featured in first-timers’ travel itineraries.

🏍️ Bangkok Trip’s Total Cost: $170

During my three-day trip to Bangkok, I averaged $57 in daily travel expenses.

I stayed at a mid-range budget hotel and was able to split accommodation costs with one other person. During my trip, I did a unique and memorable food tour, visited Wat Pho, and was impressed with the city’s aquarium.

Despite being the capital city and one of the more expensive places in Thailand, Bangkok is still incredibly affordable . A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $55 per day in Bangkok. You can find mid-range accommodations for less than $20 a night, eat for less than $5 a meal, and take advantage of public transportation to get around.

🐘 Chiang Mai Trip’s Total Cost: $392

During my five-day trip to Chiang Mai, I averaged $78 in daily travel expenses. Excluding my flight ticket from Krabi, my total cost was $304, and my average cost was $61 per day.

I split an Airbnb with someone and did quintessential Chiang Mai activities (e.g., visited an ethical elephant sanctuary , talked to monks , and attended a cabaret show).

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand and is affordable. A mid-range budget traveler can expect to have a daily travel budget of $60 , similar to Bangkok.

🚤 Krabi/Ao Nang Trip’s Total Cost: $357

During my four-day trip to Krabi/Ao Nang, I averaged $89 in daily travel expenses. Excluding my flight ticket to Krabi from Bangkok, my total cost was $307, and my average cost was $77 per day.

I split an Airbnb with someone and did activities like a Phi Phi Islands day tour (which included stops at the beautiful beaches of Koh Phi Phi, Ton Sai, and Bamboo Island), outdoor rock climbing at Railay Beach, and an informative and delicious northern Thailand food tour .

Krabi is less popular than Phuket in terms of Thailand beaches. But it’s still one of the pricier destinations where a mid-range budget traveler can expect to have a daily travel budget of $60 .

Do You Need Cash in Thailand?

Thailand’s economy is largely based on cash transactions , especially in non-tourist areas, so bring some cash. I needed to use cash almost everywhere when I visited.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Thailand.

💵 1. Withdraw cash in Thai baht.

Thailand’s local currency is the Thai baht (฿), and the US dollar is not widely accepted.

ATMs are readily available in many tourist places in Thailand, but if your debit card doesn’t reimburse your ATM fees, you’ll want to withdraw a higher amount less frequently to save on fees.

🏧 2. Carry about $40 to $50 worth of cash per day in Thailand.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Thailand will need  at least $40 in cash  to cover food, transportation, and attractions. A daily cash expense breakdown can look like this:

• $15 at restaurants and cafes
• $20 for tipping and entrance fees
• $5 for transportation and other miscellaneous spending

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💳 3. Very few places in Thailand take credit cards.

Being able to use a credit card in Thailand is the exception, but below are some places that accepted credit cards during my trip:

• Touristy restaurants – This was especially true in Bangkok.
• Established massage places – However, the places typically had a 3% credit card fee.
• Grab app rides – You can also tip through the app, so you don’t need cash for these.
• Malls and attractions within them – Many stores inside a mall will take cards. The Bangkok Aquarium also accepts cards.

💰 4. Tipping is not customary in Thailand.

Tipping is often appreciated in Thailand, but it’s optional. Tipping is most often expected from tourists and businesses that serve visitors.

• Tours – Tour guides will gladly accept 10% to 15% tips, especially those serving Americans.
• Dining – When eating out, you can leave behind some of the remaining change.
• Drivers – You can tip through the Grab app at about 5% to 10% if you like.
• Other service workers – Given how affordable massages are in Thailand, consider leaving a 20% tip since it won’t be that much money for you, but it can make a difference to the masseuse.

See other essential travel tips for Thailand before visiting.

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Thailand Travel Guides

• 🇹🇭 Planning A Trip To Thailand: 11 Practical Things To Know
• 🏝️ 10 Epic Days in Thailand: An Active & Unique Itinerary
• 🐘 10 Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai
• 📿 Monk Chats in Chiang Mai: How To & Firsthand Tips

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

Thank you, Lukiih. I’m glad I found your review. I’ll be arriving in BKK on 3/30 for 18 days solo. Planning on spending time in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin (maybe Joe Tien).

One of my main concerns was about credit cards and you’ve answered that fully. I’m planning on bringing $3K cash with me – I’m not a partier or fine diner but I do want to explore. Since I will need to convert $ to TB, where do you recommend doing this? The first opportunity will be in the airport. Aside from converting at the airport what I’ll need for a few days, would I get a better exchange rate at a bank?

Thank you for you help.

Hi Tom, glad you found this review helpful. I didn’t have to exchange USD for THB in Thailand, so I don’t have any firsthand tips other than the exchange rates at the airports are generally terrible.

I’m not comfortable carrying a large sum of cash when I travel, so I withdraw as I go. I have a debit card that will reimburse my ATM fees and provides a good exchange rate, so I rely on ATMs. Good luck exchanging money and enjoy your trip!

Dear Lukiin Thanks for your article, very interesting. I will fly to Tailand in one week time whit my husband and two sons 6 and 16th years old. We will stay 3 days in Bangkok, 3 days Krabi, 2 days Phi Phi Island, 2 days Raylay beach, 3 days Chiang and finely 3 day Chiang Rai. I aredy paid 3 flights between Bangkok, Krabi,, Cĥiang Mai, and from Chiang Rai back to Bangkok, also some of the hotes also payd.

Do you thin I can manage to leve for 100€ a day for 4 of us for food ets?

Hi Olga, glad you found this article helpful. I can only speak about my experience, but I think 100€ to 120€ per day is sufficient for the four of you, especially because one of your sons is so young. All of your destinations are tourist hot spots, so prices might be a tad bit higher, but Thailand is overall very affordable.

Hi there, I found your article really good so thank you. I am leaving in 1 week for a month long trip to Thailand with my 2 teenage children (lucky them right). I have only pre booked all my accommodation (pay when I arrive) and have booked all 2 internal flights and paid for them already. I have run out of time unfortunately to get a travel wise card which after much research am bummed about as seems this is the best way to avoid all the bank transactions fees. I don’t really want to carry enough cash for 4 weeks as that would be an extreme amount to take for 3 people. Do you have any advice for me or am I just going to have to use ATM machines and pay the extravagant bank fees 🙁. I am happy to use my debit card to pay for my accommodation when I arrive which will be in 5 destinations. Looked at getting a Wise Travel digital card as can get instantly and they have much lower atm fees, pretty sure most places wouldn’t have contactless ATMs or payment options being Thailand right as it’s the same as using Apple Pay (tap to pay). We are going to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Railay. Regards 🙂

Hi Sarah, glad you found this article helpful! I can only speak about my experience: – I also never carry too much on me (about $100 at most) – Yes, Thailand heavily relies on cash, so I wouldn’t depend on credit, debit cards or any tap to pay technology. – I had no trouble finding ATM machines around Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Railay. I didn’t go to Phuket, but it’s one of the most tourist-heavy destinations, so I can’t imagine them not having ATMs. – I have a debit card with zero transaction fees AND it reimburses my ATM fees, but I do remember the fees being high (about $6 for every withdrawal). The fees do suck, but Thailand is also so affordable that the fees feel like a reasonable sacrifice (e.g., you might have to pay a $6 fee every time you take out money, but your meals can also be as cheap as $3 depending on where you go). Or you might have to consider just taking out more than you’re comfortable.

Have a great time with your two lucky teens! 🍀

Very helpful article.

We’re going to Thailand for 15 days just over 2 weeks from now! As retirees with a budget that can afford comfort, we’re on a group tour for 10 days, taking a cooking class in Bangkok before our tour, and staying at a resort hotel in Phuket a few nights at the end. Our itinerary also includes overnights in Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai. Hotels and transportation are prepaid. Breakfast every day and some dinners are included, as are excursions and attractions on the tour, except for some free days. I assume the Phuket resort will accept credit card.

So I’m trying to determine how much cash we need for the two of us for the non-included meals (ranging from street food to sit-downs), attractions on our free days, and souvenirs and gifts. I’m leaning toward 50,000 Thai Baht (between $1400-$1500 US). That’s $90-$100 per day. You’re recommending $40 per day per person ($80 total), so it seems like I’ve got that plus a cushion. Do you agree? Or suggest we carry less?

Hi Ken, glad you found this article helpful.

You’re going to be in three of Thailand’s most expensive destinations: Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok, so I don’t think it hurts to bring a bit extra per person. At the same time, a lot of your trip is already covered (e.g., transportation, some meals), so I don’t think you’ll need much outside of tipping, buying small souvenirs, dining out, etc, which can all be very affordable by US’s standards.

My $40 per day estimate also includes massages, which can be very cheap in Thailand, but you might be going to nicer places. Overall, you seem to be doing a nicer trip than what I did, so roughly $80-$90 per day per person sounds right.

If you end up using significantly more or less cash after your trip, feel free to shoot me a note. I’ll be curious as to why :). Enjoy your trip!

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The Cost of Travel in Thailand: My Detailed Budget Breakdown

I’ve spent more time travelling in Thailand than any other country in the world.

When you consider I’ve been on the move for more than 13 years at this point, you might get some idea of just how much I love this country.

I’ve spent years of my life in Thailand, travelling across the country from top to bottom and east to west. I’ve ventured out on an epic 1000-mile scooter road trip around the little-visited provinces of the north, spent six months living in Chiang Mai, partied my way around Bangkok, and hit up dozens upon dozens of Thai islands — some of which didn’t even have electricity!

If there’s a place in Thailand that you’ve set your sights on, odds are I’ve already been there. And if I have, I can definitely tell you how much it costs to visit.

I’ve been recording every single dollar, peso, and baht that I’ve spent on my travels since 2011 (I now have  over 70 budget breakdowns on the site !), aiming to give you an in-depth picture of how much you can expect to spend in every country around the world. Thailand is no different: I have years of receipts and records from my travels in this country, covering every type of expense you could ever conceive of.

The good news is that the costs involved in visiting Thailand in 2024 are still relatively low. This is still one of the cheaper destinations of the world — even post-pandemic — so you’ll always feel as though you’re getting good value for money here.

Backpackers can experience the joys of Thailand for as little as $30 a day while luxury can be scored for just $100 a day . Most travellers will fit somewhere in-between those two numbers, depending on the destinations visited and quality of accommodation required.

(For my European readers, the equivalent prices here are €28/£24 a day for budget travellers and €92/£80 a day for a luxury trip.)

Don’t worry — I’ll be going really in-depth here, sharing every possible expense you’re likely to encounter, all to help you create an accurate budget for your time in Thailand.

Let’s get started.

What’s Included in This Guide

This budget breakdown covers how much I’ve spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and other miscellaneous items while I was in Thailand. I’ve not included my flights into and out of the country, as this will vary based on where you’ll be travelling from.

Most expenses are listed in Thai Baht, then converted into U.S. Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds, simply because that’s where the vast majority of my readers hail from.

I strictly don’t accept comps, freebies, press trips, or sponsored activities, so rest assured that absolutely everything listed in this guide is something I paid for with my own money.

Additionally, I travel anonymously to ensure that service providers treat me the same as they would anybody else; I don’t want to receive special treatment by being a travel writer, as it means I can’t review experiences with accuracy.

All photos are mine and all experiences are based on my own travels in Thailand. I have never, and will never, use AI on Never Ending Footsteps.

As a result, this guide does contain affiliate links. What that means is that if you decide to make a purchase through one of the links in this article, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Your support is what helps keep me on the road and Never Ending Footsteps sponsor-free.

Okay — let’s get started with these expenses.

The Cost of Accommodation in Thailand

I’ve stayed in over 50 different properties in Thailand, spending anything from $2 a night (€1.80/£1.60) for a bungalow with holes in the wall with a bed that appeared to be made from concrete to a $100 a night (€92/£80) luxury villa with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. I’ve stayed in high-rise condos in the centre of Bangkok ( $19 a night , or €15/18) and rented an apartment in Chiang Mai for six months ( $8 a night , or €7/£6).

In other words, I’ve stayed in practically every form of accommodation you can imagine in Thailand, spread out across every budget imaginable.

Let’s start with the cheapest properties available and then work our way up.

If you’re going to be backpacking Thailand on the tightest budget imaginable, hostels will allow you extend your trip by months rather than days. You’ll find dorm rooms all over the country and they’re one of your best options for saving money and making friends.

As you work your way through my article, you’ll soon come to discover that the prices in Thailand are broken down into two distinct groups: the mainland and the islands. And the mainland is so much cheaper than the islands — sometimes as much as 50% cheaper. Because of this, I’ll be giving mainland and island prices separately throughout the guide.

So in terms of hostels on the mainland , you can score yourself a bed in a dorm room for $2.50 a night (€2.30/£2), but I actually recommend increasing your budget to $5-7 a night (€5-6 or £4-5 a night). On the higher end of that spectrum, you can find a spot in a clean, cosy, highly-rated property. Two of my favourite budget hostels in this part of the country are Time Sabai 32 in Bangkok at $7 a night and Tangmo House in Chiang Mai for $6 a night .

If you’re more of a flashpacker and would prefer to stay in the best hostel in a city, there are plenty of modern, higher-end options to suit your needs for $10-12 a night (that’s €9-11 and £9-10). In Bangkok, I’m a huge fan of the Yard Hostel ( $12 a night ), which is located in my favourite neighbourhood of Ari (hipster vibes; excellent food), while About a Bed ( $11 a night ) in Chiang Mai is the definition of bright, light, and airy.

All of those prices above are for dorm beds, but if you’re more of a private room person (I know I am!), prices are still affordable; roughly double the cost of a single dorm bed. For a double bed in a private room in a hostel, you’ll be looking at $17 a night to $25 a night (that’s €16-23, or £13-20 a night) depending on whether the hostel is aimed at backpackers or flashpackers.

But what about the budget options on the islands? Now, hostels are more of a rarity on the Thai islands. They do exist and they are the cheapest options out there, but some people — especially couples — will opt for a basic wooden bungalow on the beach instead; they’re usually priced similarly.

Still, when hostels do exist, you’ll be looking at paying a minimum of $8 a day (€7/£6) for a dorm bed for a cheap hostel that isn’t rated terribly. To give a few examples: Aforetime House on Koh Samui comes in at $8 a day . The 10 Club Hostel on Koh Phangan is $11 a night while Aha Lanta Cozy Hostel on Koh Lanta is $11 a day .

When we move into the flashpacking realm of accommodation (so looking at the best hostel on an island), you’ll be up for $17 a day (€16/£13). Some of the places I know and love in this price range include the View Hostel on Koh Phi Phi for $18 a day , Blessings Hostel on Koh Phangan at a price of $14 a day , and Wonderland Jungle Hostel on Koh Tao for a price of $18 a day .

When it comes to private rooms, I’d actually recommend avoiding staying in hostels and instead suggest looking at budget guesthouses and bungalows on the islands. Reason being: there’s usually dozens of guesthouses in comparison to a handful of hostels, so you’ll have more options. The guesthouses are often cheaper than private rooms in hostels, and tend to be much quieter. You’ll be looking at $20-35 a night for a budget guesthouse on a Thai island. That works out at €19-32 and £16-28 per night.

The prices I’ve given above are for the more popular Thai islands (which you’re more likely to be visiting); these are places like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, and Koh Phangan. There are cheaper Thai islands out there (where prices are around 60-80% cheaper than the more touristy islands), like Koh Chang, so you could cut prices by visiting some of the less popular islands in the country, too.

To summarise, here’s what you can expect to pay for accommodation if you’re visiting Thailand on a budget:

There’s also a few options for totally free accommodation in Thailand.

If you’re on a  really  tight budget, you can stretch out your  baht by making use of some of the free accommodation options in the country. Couchsurfing has been a backpacking staple for over a decade now, and there are  thousands of hosts  scattered across Thailand. If a host agrees to let you stay with them, you’ll be able to gain an insight into life in Thailand that’s always going to be tough to experience when staying with other travellers in hostels.

Housesitting is another option if you’re going to be trying to save as much money as possible but want to stay in high-quality accommodation. Take a look at  Trusted Housesitters , where there are always a dozen options up for grabs in the country. Housesitting allows you to stay in somebody’s house for free, usually while taking care of their pets, and is a fantastic way to spend more time in Thailand without breaking the bank. I have friends who have housesat villas on private islands and castles in Europe before!

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you could also check out  WorldPackers . You’ll receive free lodging and food in exchange for helping to teach English, working on a local eco sanctuary, or even caring for sick turtles. You’ll likely make tons of new friends, learn a new skill, and see a side of Thailand that few travellers get to experience. Readers of this site get a $10 discount for  WorldPackers  with the promo code  neverendingfootsteps .  WorkAway  is a fantastic option in Thailand — similar to WorldPackers — that’ll net you a free stay in exchange for a more diverse choice of work (think: volunteering for elephant sanctuaries, rescuing sick animals, and helping a local artist with their sculptures).

In Thailand, I don’t recommend even looking at Airbnb. Prices are typically sky-high, and most of the time, it’s guesthouses that are listing on there anyway — at higher prices than they do  on Booking .

With all of the budget accommodation options now covered, it’s time to look at what you can get in Thailand on a mid-range or high-end budget. This is one of the true joys of travel in Thailand; receiving tons of value for your money and getting to splurge on some truly incredible properties.

Over the past three or four years, I would describe myself as a mid-range traveller to Thailand. I’m not looking for budget bungalows and basic guesthouses anymore. No, now I appreciate access to A/C, a beautiful swimming pool, quiet surrounds, a desk to work at, and a comfortable bed. The good news is that you can achieve all of that with a budget that’s between $40 and $60 a night, which is €37-55 or £32-48 per night.

If you’re a luxury traveller in Thailand, the sky’s the limit here. If you’re accustomed to stayed in five-star hotels, you’ll find them to be very reasonably priced. To give a handful of examples of five-star properties in the country:

• 137 Pillars Bangkok (best pool in the city!): $141 a night
• Melia Koh Samui (super luxurious): $151 a night
• Zeavola Resort Koh Phi Phi (great for honeymoons): $173 a night
• Intercontinental Phuket (the best hotel in town): $350 a night
• Four Seasons Chiang Mai : $633 a night
• Six Senses Koh Yao Noi : $620 a night

Those final two properties are my two wishlist properties for Thailand, by the way. I’ve been wanting to stay at both of them for over a decade now! If you have the budget to splurge, they both look absolutely incredible.

Otherwise, you can see that it’s possible to snag a stay in a five-star hotel for as little as $150 a night in Thailand!

The Cost of Transportation in Thailand

There’s no end of transportation up for grabs in Thailand and almost all of it is a delight to experience. From tuk-tuks to songthaews to longtails to moto-taxis, if you’ve got somewhere to be, there’s undoubtedly a fun method of transportation to take you there.

The good news is that it’s all very inexpensive, so you shouldn’t find yourself spending much at all.

The easiest way to save money on transportation is to avoid taking the flights and speedboats, but even those can be plenty affordable. I’ve rarely spent more than $50 on a domestic flight in Thailand, for example, thanks to the existence of Air Asia , so if you’re short on time, you’re not going to be mad at the prices here.

One thing I love about Thailand is how the transportation process is the definition of seamless; it feels like magic at times.

As an example, I once wanted to travel from the island Koh Yao Noi to Phuket Airport. I spoke to a travel agent on the island, gave her some money ( $18 ), and she handed me a white piece of paper seconds later. With that single “ticket”, I was able to travel from my bungalow to the airport via multiple methods of transport.

A tuk-tuk collected me from my front door and took me to the dock, where I then transferred on to a ferry to take me to Phuket. Once I arrived back on the mainland, a minivan was waiting for me at the ferry terminal to drive me straight to the airport.

The fact that all of those moving parts were able to co-ordinate with each other so seamlessly — based on a single piece of paper that a travel agent scrawled a handful of words on — is something that’s always been so impressive to me!

Needless to say, this is a country where moving from place to place is one of the simplest tasks you could conceive of. Trust me: if you’re nervous about travelling around the country, you absolutely shouldn’t be.

So let’s talk about costs.

When it comes to getting between destinations, and travelling long distances as you do so, it’s always going to be cheaper to travel overland.

Minivans, buses, and ferries — or a combination of the three — can take you anywhere you need to go in Thailand. It’s true: even if you want to visit somewhere really off-the-beaten-track, there’ll always be someone who’s willing to take you there.

The easiest way to travel across the country is by utilising the travel agents that are found on practically every street in tourist destinations. They’re easy to spot as they’ll have a list of destinations and prices displayed on a board outside. Head inside, tell them where you need to go, and you’ll usually have a ticket in hand within a couple of minutes.

For spontaneous travellers, you’ll be happy to hear you can nearly always book transportation for the following day through travel agents, making it easy to craft an itinerary on the fly.

I personally use the website 12Go Asia when I travel in Thailand. It provides the same service as the travel agents, but you’re booking online instead. It’s sometimes a little more expensive than going in person, sometimes a little cheaper, but it’s definitely more convenient! Being able to read reviews of the different buses and being able to book far in advance has helped make it my go-to in this part of the world.

One thing you could do is check out the prices online through 12Go and then head to a travel agent in person to compare the rates. That way, you’ll have a maximum price that you’re willing to pay for the journey.

When travelling around the mainland, it’s always going to be most expensive to fly, followed by taking a minivan, bus, and then (if it exists), the train.

For example, to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai:

• By plane: $35
• By minivan: $26
• By bus: $15
• By train: $7

Or from Bangkok to Phuket:

• By minivan: $30
• By bus: $21

Or from Bangkok to Koh Samui:

• By plane: $60
• By minivan+ferry: $40
• By bus+ferry: $30
• By train+bus+ferry: $19

It sounds like overland travel is going to be the best option when you’re looking at the prices, but you’ll also want to take into account the journey duration as well. For example, the flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui takes one hour while the bus and ferry takes as much as 14 hours! The journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes one hour to fly while the minivan takes 8 hours and the train takes 12 hours!

Overnight trains and buses do exist, and make for a good option if you’re trying to maximise your daylight hours in Thailand. Don’t underestimate the effect they’ll have on your sleep, though! My overnight train ride from Chiang Mai to Bangkok ( $7 ) essentially vibrated us all the way down the country, only breaking up the shaking with a horn that emitted a deafening bellow every 10 minutes. I was exhausted afterwards and slept much of the next day away!

If you’re on a tight budget and have an abundance of time, though, you likely won’t stress over these long travel days. If you only have a limited number of days in the country, you might want to fly.

One of my favourite aspects of travel in Thailand is the island-hopping . I return to this country each and every year with the sole goal of exploring a brand new chain of islands. Getting between the islands involves taking some form of boat, whether it’s a speedboat (twice as fast; more expensive than the ferries), a ferry, or a longtail .

I tend to always use the ferries when getting from one island to the next; to me, the speedboats don’t offer that much more value for me to be able to justify paying a higher price. Not to mention I also suffer from seasickness and the increased speeds on the speedboats always make for a bumpier ride! Finally, while the speedboats seat around 20 people, the ferries hold more like 100 people; the larger size and slower speeds means you can walk around and sit out on the sundeck.

I’ll usually only hire a longtail (a narrow wooden boat with a propeller affixed to the back) if I can get from one island to the other in less than an hour. I do adore travelling by longtail, as it always has me feeling like ~I’m in Thailand~ but these watercraft are loud, polluting, and offer no shelter from the sun. I wouldn’t want to be sat on board one for four hours straight!

Let’s take a look at the prices I’ve paid for a ferry while island-hopping in Thailand, along with the equivalent rates for a speedboat or longtail, when either is an available option. Again, I book my boat journeys online through 12Go Asia .

Phuket to Koh Phi Phi:

• By ferry (two hours): $12
• By speedboat (one hour): $17

Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta:

• By ferry (one hour): $12
• By speedboat (30 minutes): $19
• By longtail (90 minutes): $35

Koh Samui to Koh Tao:

• By ferry (two and half hours): $16
• By speedboat (90 minutes): $19

Koh Chang to Koh Kood:

• By ferry (three hours): $20
• By speedboat (two hours): $33

We’ve covered how much you’ll spend on getting from one location to the next, but what about when you get to your destination? How much can you expect to spend on transportation within the cities, towns, national parks, and islands? Let’s start with Bangkok.

Not only is the capital home to the only mass transit system in the country, but it’s actually home to two different ones! The MRT operates mostly underground while the BTS runs aboveground; combined, they have over 100 stations spread out across the city. They also provide the fastest, cheapest, and easiest way to get around. Unfortunately, the MRT and BTS are run by two separate companies, so you can’t travel on both with the same ticket; in reality, though, it’s not a big deal to switch from one to the other.

If you’re only going to be in Bangkok for two or three days, I recommend just buying single journey tokens for the MRT and BTS. On the BTS, you’ll pay between 17-62B for a single ride; on the MRT, you’ll pay 14-43B for a single ride. Google Maps is great for public transportation in Thailand and can provide you with an accurate breakdown of which trains will get you to your destination.

The MRT and BTS can’t get you everywhere there, so taxis — and mototaxis (sitting on the back of a motorbike) — are another great option. Download Grab and Bolt (the equivalents of Uber) before you arrive in Thailand, as you’ll likely be using them often. Bolt is usually cheaper, but Grab has more taxi drivers using it, so start with Bolt.

In terms of cost, it’s all very inexpensive. For a 10 minute, 1.5 mile (2.5 km) journey, like from Khaosan Road to the Grand Palace, you would be looking at 80B ($2.20) for a Grab taxi or 40B ($1.10) for a mototaxi. You can expect to spend double that price on the islands, like on Koh Samui. Note that some large islands, like Koh Lanta and Koh Chang don’t have Grab/Bolt or public taxi services, so it’s best to double-check before you arrive.

One of the worst-value ways of making your way around Thailand is by tuk-tuk. It’s mostly the tourists that use this method of transport, but it is an exhilarating way to explore a new place. I always recommend that visitors taking a tuk-tuk once, so that you can have that new experience. After that, though, I’d stick with the taxis. Expect to spend around $5 to travel for a mile or two by tuk-tuk, in comparison to $2.50 for Grab or Bolt.

One of my favourite methods of exploring Thailand is by scooter, but I have to stress that if you don’t have experience riding a motorbike, this is one of the most dangerous activities you can undertake. One of my friends died in a scooter crash in this country, so I’m speaking from personal experience. If you don’t have riding experience, please be careful — and please don’t drink and drive.

Keep in mind, as well, that if you don’t have a motorbike driving license, you won’t be covered by travel insurance if you get in a crash. I’ve seen so many GoFundMe’s from injured travellers in Thailand who are now facing a six figure medical bill to get home.

Fortunately, my partner has a motorbike license and has racked up thousands of miles in Southeast Asia on two wheels, so I feel safe and happy sitting on the back of his ride in Thailand. And this is an incredible way to explore the country. While I’d recommend skipping riding a scooter on the mainland (lots of traffic), it’s so much fun to cruise around the islands this way.

Expect to pay $7 to hire a scooter for a day, or $5 a day for a week; $4 a day for a month.

The Cost of Food in Thailand

Thai food is some of the best in the world.

In this country, it’s truly a delight just to eat — it’s an activity in its own right! — and you’ll discover so many incredible dishes beyond pad thais and green curries. What’s even better is that some of the best food in Thailand is found on its streets, accessible and cheap, and costing just $2 a meal .

Trust me: you’re going to eat extremely well here.

Before I jump into more specific pricing details, I want to quickly address any worries you may have around food hygiene. After all, if street food isn’t common in your home country, it’s understandable that you’d be concerned about food poisoning.

Well, as somebody who has suffered from food poisoning in Southeast Asia more than a dozen times, let me tell you that I’ve never fallen unwell from eating street food. As long as you follow my four simple rules (only go to a popular food stand, with locals in the queue, with a high turnover, and nobody handling money and food with the same hand), you’ll be safe to eat on the streets.

The times when I have fallen sick have been after venturing inside a restaurant that’s serving international cuisine. Just don’t do it!

So let’s talk about prices. If somebody tells you that you can travel in Thailand while only spending $1 per meal, you can assume their information is outdated. That was the case when I was there in 2014, for sure, but in 2024, prices aren’t quite that low.

That’s not to say that they’re anywhere near expensive, however. In fact, eating in Thailand is still very affordable — as long as you’re happy to eat Thai food .

If you wanted a really rough ballpark for food costs, I’d suggest that budgeting $10 a day for food in Thailand is a great place to start.

If you’re going to be on the tightest of backpacker budgets, eating only local food from street food carts, you could cut that down to $6 a day without too much difficulty. If you’re looking to occasionally splurge and eat inside restaurants, then $20 a day is a good estimate.

It’s probably easiest if I give you a rundown of different Thai dishes and the average prices you can expect to pay for them:

• Khao soi with chicken: 100B ($2.75/€2.50/£2.20)
• Pad krapow with pork: 80B
• Pad Thai with shrimp: 80B
• Tom Yum soup with vegetables: 120B
• Green curry with beef: 140B
• Penang/Red/Massaman curry with chicken: 130B
• Chicken fried rice: 90B

As you can see, the vast majority of Thai dishes come to between 80B and 150B ($2.20-4.12) per meal. You can find slightly cheaper prices at night markets and restaurants that are set up for locals. You’ll pay 20% more for food on the islands.

If you were thinking about straying from Thai food for any of your meals, it’s most likely going to be for breakfast.

This is a country where the locals will opt to eat the same food at breakfast as they would for any other meal. And I don’t know about you but I’m never particularly excited by the prospect of a fiery curry for breakfast.

The good news is that the vast majority of destinations in Thailand are home to hipster cafes and bakeries, serving up more Westernised breakfast options. Don’t expect it to be as amazing as you’d get at home — and the bread is nearly always alarmingly sweet — but you can usually find some excellent options, even on the small islands.

Pancakes are usually great in Thailand (the popular backpacking route in Southeast Asia isn’t named the Banana Pancake Trail for nothing!) but you can also easily get omelettes, bagels, waffles, and toast, too. In general, you can expect to spend between 50 and 250B for breakfast, depending on how hungry you are. That’s a range of between $1.50 and $7 , so you’ll save quite a bit of money if you can get by with toast and jam instead of a huge Full English!

• Toast with butter and jam: 50B
• Bagel with cream cheese: 90B
• Banana pancakes: 120B
• Avocado toast: 140B
• Ham, cheese, and mushroom omelette: 140B
• Toast with bacon and eggs: 180B
• Smoked salmon eggs Benedict: 220B
• Smoothie bowl: 220B
• Full English breakfast: 250B

When it comes to international options, keep in mind that the quality is often not quite what you might be expecting (although reviews on Google Maps should help you choose a highly-rated spot) and the prices are much higher. Think: a pizza for 300B ($8), a cheeseburger for 250B ($7), or nachos for 280B ($7.50).

Overall, expect to spend $2 a meal if you’re eating cheap local food and visiting night markets, $3 a meal if you’re eating local food predominantly in restaurants, or $5 a meal if you’re going to be mixing things up with some international options every now and then.

Now, I can’t write about travel in Thailand without discussing alcohol. After all, this is the country that invented the Full Moon Party! If you like a drink, you’ll be thrilled to uncover an multitude of methods for developing a hangover.

Beer is cheap in Thailand, averaging out to 100฿ for a large bottle (620 ml) in restaurants, so thats around £2, or €2.50/$2.80. It’ll be a little cheaper on the mainland (80฿) than on the islands (140฿), and more expensive in a fancy bar or restaurant (180฿). The big three beer brands in Thailand are Chang, Leo, and Singha; in my opinion, Singha is the only one that’s drinkable, but Chang is usually the cheapest.

Down on the Thai islands, you’ll come across buckets aplenty. It is, as you can probably guess, an excellent way to get drunk. You can expect to pay roughly 300฿ for a bucket of coke, whiskey, and Red Bull. Make sure you watch the vendor make the bucket, so you have some idea of how much alcohol is in it! I’ve seen some places pour in two shots and some as many as eight! The average is around five shots.

I usually recommend steering clear of wine and cocktails in Thailand, unless you’re visiting a specialty wine bar or cocktail bar.

The rooftop bars of Bangkok are a great-but-pricey place to go for a high-end drink, especially at sunset — you’ll be looking at 350B ($10) for a cocktail or glass of imported wine there (don’t even try the local wines!).

On the islands, the wine is usually terrible and the cocktails are sometimes made using spirits of dubious origin. I definitely have felt like I’ve been poisoned by Ethanol before, so check the reviews of anywhere you visit! The alcohol is similarly priced, however: around 350B for a cocktail at a beach bar.

To save money on alcohol, you’re best to head to a grocery store to pick some up. The typical prices at 7-Eleven are:

• 320 ml bottle of Singha: 40B
• 330ml of Corona: 70B
• 750ml bottle of imported wine: 350B
• 300 ml bottle of Thai whiskey (Songsam): 150B

That’s not to say that a holiday in Thailand has to revolve around alcohol. I’ve island-hopped around this country while remaining completely sober at times and still had an incredible time (and saved lots of money by doing so)!

The tap water isn’t safe to drink in Thailand and I suspect that several of my upset stomachs were caused by me brushing my teeth with the water. Do take precautions here and try to avoid getting water in your mouth while showering or brushing your teeth. The ice in drinks is totally safe, however, so you don’t have to worry about ordering yours without.

Because of this, you’ll likely be regularly hitting up the 7-Eleven to buy some water; your plastic consumption is going to be high in this country. I travel with a GRAYL now and recommend it to everyone I talk to. It’s a water bottle that filters tap water and makes it safe and drinkable! I’ve tested out and used it to drink the tap water in countries like India, Mozambique, and the Congo and never fallen unwell. It’s a good way to cut down on your plastic bottle usage while also saving a bit of money.

Here are some of the costs for buying non-alcoholic drinks in Thailand, in 7-Eleven grocery stores:

• 600 ml of water at a 7-11: 7B
• 1.5l of water at a 7-11: 20B
• 150ml of red bull: 10B
• Small can of coffee: 16B
• Bottle of Coke/Sprite/Fanta: 19B

And from restaurants or street food stalls:

• Fresh fruit smoothie: 40B
• Espresso: 60-80B
• Flat white: 70-100B
• Honey lemon tea: 50B
• Coke/Sprite/Lemon soda: 40B

The Cost of Activities in Thailand

The good news about somewhere like Thailand is that you can save a lot of money on activities. If you’re planning to spend the entirety of your trip on the islands, you won’t need to spend much on activities at all: lying on the beach is totally free!

Likewise, on the mainland, simply wandering the streets and people-watching is a free activity and one that’s always interesting. The temples of Thailand — the wats — are almost always free to enter and interesting to explore. Every traveller to Thailand hits Wat Burnout at some point, though: they’re well and truly templed out .

Entrance fees to museums and attractions are rarely expensive; these are the main sites you’re likely to visit on your trip:

• Wat Pho, Bangkok: 300B
• Wat Arun, Bangkok: 100B
• The Grand Palace, Bangkok: 500B
• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai: 30B

Thai food is such a big part of travelling to Thailand that most visitors end up jumping on a food tour or cooking class at some point. I recommend taking the food tour in Bangkok and the cooking class in Chiang Mai. I’m a huge fan of the Backstreet Bangkok food tour ( $60 ), which lasts four hours and includes 15 tastings around the city. For a cooking class, I recommend the half-day cooking class ( $23 ) that takes you out of Chiang Mai into the countryside to cook your meals on an organic farm.

The other thing that every visitor to Thailand does is visit an elephant sanctuary! It’s not quite as simple as it sounds, however, as the vast majority of these experiences are harmful and abusive to the elephants. If an experience includes elephant-riding, becoming a mahout for the day, or any form of elephant show, that’s one to stay away from. This is a topic that’s close to my heart, as a friend of mine worked with abused elephants for several years in Thailand.

I’m a fan of the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary ( $85 to spend a morning with the elephants) and Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai ( $70 to spend a morning/afternoon with the elephants).

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Thailand?

At the end of my budget breakdowns, I always like to give an estimate of exactly how much you can expect to spend in a country. Here’s what I recommend for Thailand:

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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I went in 2013 and the islands I visited were Koh Lanta and Koh Yao after reading your blog. I am counting down the days I get to go back to this amazing country!

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Visiting Thailand on a Budget (Here’s How)

Thailand is one of those places you go when you’re already on a tight budget and wanting to duck out of your 9-5 for two weeks. 

You are taunted  with package deals every other week and you’ll be staring out your office window wishing you were reclined in a wooden canoe that was weaving between limestone islets (called Ko Ta Pu in Thai) through a dark blue lagoon. 

But don’t worry you don’t have to spend big on a trip to Thailand! Below are a few strategies that will ensure you can visit Thailand without breaking the bank

Table of Contents

What Can You Get For Your Dough?

You can easily live off 800฿ – 1100฿ per day (which is around $20USD)  which will mean you’re well fed, you get a bed, public transport (or a bike), and that you enjoy some activities, like swimming, hiking, site seeing and some paid ones, like river rafting or a canoe trip, or a night out (or five).

Go In The Off Peak Season

The driest and travel friendly season is between November and March so flights, transport and accommodation prices all shoot up for around that time to match up with the demand. 

To score cheaper deals try going in the winter time. Thailand’s wet season is between July to September, so while some ferry routes and summer tourist activities will be closed, resorts, villas, hotels and flights will be significantly cheaper and you’ll find there won’t be as many tourists which makes for a more private and coastful experience. 

Accommodation also drops around the fall and spring shoulder seasons, which is also a good time to skip the wet season. But you’ll notice, when you do get those cheap package deals to Phuket, or Bangkok, it’ll be around the middle of the year. 

House Sitting In Thailand

You’d be surprised at the amount of house sitting opportunities available in Thailand all year round

 The stays can be anywhere from three nights to six months – it really just depends on the assignment. And the animals can vary from a cat to three dogs to maybe even watering some plants around the home. 

House sitting is a great option because you don’t have to pay for accommodation and you essentially get a free vacation. All you have to do is care for their home and/or pets.

This is an excellent option because you have a whole home to yourself, which means you can cook and wash your clothes at home (which can also help keep costs down when travelling) You also don’t have to deal with deposits and pesky housekeeping kicking you out at 10am.

Be Savvy When You Go To Touristy Areas

You shouldn’t avoid ‘touristy’ areas altogether – after all, some places like the floating water markets are a great spot to visit but you just need to  just be aware of what’s  happening around you. 

Stay At Trusted Hostels and Homestays

To avoid getting yourself in a sticky or expensive situation, it’s a good idea to stay at places where you can speak the language and that has good reviews. 

For example, I had a great time at Shira Lea in Koh Samui because the bar and reception staff were all from England and we got on.

I even got a few free drinks, a wild birthday free cake for my birthday!

Take Cheap Transport Options

Avoid expensive transport options like the taxis right outside the airport, internal flights and tourist minivans. Give Thailand’s public transport system a go, it’s a lot cheaper and their train and bus infrustructure is well equip. 

Don’t bother renting a car in Thailand, especially if you’re not used to highly congested roads. They’re about 800฿ a day, whereas a motorbike is easier to get around the country and it starts at about 150฿ – 300฿ a day. 

Taxis and sŏrng·tăa·ou are a viable option as well instead of tuk-tuks. Tuk-tuks start at about 30฿ – 60฿ for locals and 60฿ for tourists.

To get to the islands, the ferry is a viable option and cheaper than a plane. Prices vary, and it’s basically a scenic route. 

See you can easily visit Thailand on next to nothing and live like a king or queen. Just implement a few of these tips and you’ll be able to visit without racking up credit card debt!

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Thailand on a Budget: What you Need to Know

Tip: Don’t be afraid to try the street food!

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Visiting Thailand on a budget? Let’s dive in to what you need to know!

Thailand will forever hold a special place in my heart as one of my favorite destinations in the world. From the hilly green hills of the North in cities like Chiang Mai and Pai to the turquoise waters of the islands (like Koh Tao), Thailand has something to offer for any type of traveler.

And the best part about it? Visiting Thailand on a budget is super easy! In fact, in my opinion, Thailand is one of the most budget-friendly travel destinations. Yes, I’m sure you’ll read that it has gotten more expensive over the years, which is true. But I promise you that you can still absolutely visit Thailand on a budget and have a great time.

The first thing that I want to call out about visiting Thailand on a budget is that your specific itinerary will have a huge impact on your budget, and how cheap you’ll be able to travel. In my 10 Day in Thailand Itinerary , I break down two different travel itineraries. If you haven’t already read that guide, I suggest you go do that now.

The first itinerary covers Bangkok and Northern Thailand, while the second itinerary swaps in the Thai Islands in place of the Northern Thailand cities. If you are heading south to the islands on your Thailand travels, you should expect to have a larger budget. Traveling in the north, on the other hand, will make sticking to a low budget much easier. However, by Western standards, travel to anywhere in Thailand can definitely be accomplished on a budget!

The Thailand Basics

Language: Thai

Currency: Thai Baht (THB), 30 THB = $1 USD, as of March 2021

Country: Thailand

Airports: Major airports include Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, and Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) in Chiang Mai. BKK is Bangkok’s international airport, while DMK is serviced by all of Asia’s budget airlines. There are also airports on a few of the islands, like Koh Samui.

Water: Thailand, especially Bangkok, is hot. You might get some relief from the heat as you head north, but Bangkok is quite literally hot all of the time. You’ll just need to embrace the constant sheer of sweat that will inevitably coat your body while traveling in Thailand’s capital. Because of this it is super important to stay hydrated, to avoid any heat exhaustion. I always carry around a reusable Vapur water bottle. While you will need to drink bottled water, this at least allows you to buy one large bottle, and avoid the excess waste of using many plastic water bottles. Another way that I love to keep hydrated while traveling in Thailand is with fresh coconut. You’ll find them on the side of the road, typically for around 60-80 THB.

Money: Although credit cards are slowly becoming more popular in Southeast Asia, cash is still the norm. For this reason, I recommend always carrying cash, ideally with an assortment of bills and coins. I find that having smaller bills makes it easier to haggle for bargains at the local markets. You’ll find plenty of ATMs throughout the city, but ATM fees can be quite high, so you’ll want to avoid too many withdrawals. Another option is to travel with a debit card that doesn’t charge ATM fees.

How Much Does a Trip to Thailand Cost? 

I always struggle with blanket questions like these because the cost of a trip is going to vary so much person to person. The biggest factor in your budget being accommodation costs. Are you the type of traveler who is going to splurge on 4 and 5-star hotels, or are you more likely to spend $5 USD for a dorm bed in a shared room at a hostel? Are you interested in eating local food, or are you planning to stick to Western dishes? Are you okay with taking slow transportation options such as buses or trains to cut costs, or would you rather travel throughout the country by plane to maximize your time?

The good thing is that no matter your travel style is, you can definitely experience the country of Thailand on a budget. It can really be as cheap, or as expensive, as you make it! I have traveled to Thailand for as little as 800-900 THB ($25 USD/day), and had an amazing time! This budget allowed me to eat well, stay at clean, comfortable places, and do lots of fun activities. For the sake of this article, I will be referring to costs in US dollars. Of course, these costs are estimated as the US Dollar to Thai Baht exchange is in constant fluctuation. 

Backpacker Budget for Thailand

$25-30 USD/day

As I mentioned above, Thailand can be extremely cheap and visited on a budget. For $25-30 USD/day you can have an awesome trip, but expect to stay at hostels in shared dorms, enjoy primarily street food (honestly a plus in my book), and take public transportation.

Mid-Range Budget for Thailand

$50-60 USD/day

With a slightly higher budget, you can expect to stay at a mix of cheaper guesthouses with 1 or 2 luxury villas sprinkled in. This budget will also give you the option to take faster transportation (plane versus bus), have a few nice meals, and book more excursions or activities.

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Luxury Budget for Thailand

$100 USD/day

With a budget of $100/day you can expect to have a rather luxurious trip to Thailand, especially if you’re traveling with a small group. This budget is better if you’re looking for more Western experiences (hotels, Western restaurants, etc). This is also a good budget if you’re planning on partaking in more expensive activities such as diving. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit Thailand on a Budget?

Typically it is said that the best time to visit Thailand is between November and April. This is considered Thailand’s cool season, as well as the dry season. Weather will differ throughout the country, so it is important to look up the weather conditions for the area that you’re heading to.

If you’re visiting Thailand on a budget, I would consider the shoulder months of May and December. You should still get decent weather and you’ll find much cheaper prices for accommodation and even flights.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Thailand?

Luckily Thailand is a super popular travel destination with tons of flight options from all over the world. The frequency of flights and options will be key for finding affordable options. I’ve flown round trip from NYC to Bangkok (BKK) for as little as $600, and I bought my tickets super last minute. I recommend being flexible with your dates, and being open to longer layovers for great flight deals.

As I mentioned above, try checking out flights during the shoulder season for great travel deals!

How Much Does it Cost to Get Around Thailand?

Getting around Thailand can be extremely budget-friendly if you are open to public transportation options. For traveling within cities, I always recommend looking for accommodation options that allow you to walk to many of the attractions on your itinerary. Of course, for big cities like Bangkok that won’t always be possible. If you need to get around, I recommend using Bangkok’s BTS train line or ordering a Grab taxi. Unlike a traditional taxi, where rates can be quite high in Bangkok’s traffic, a Grab taxi is similar to an Uber. Having a set rate ahead of time will ensure that you know exactly how much your trip will cost. 

Fares on the Bangkok BTS range 15-55 THB ($0.50-2.00) depending on distance. When in the station, you can look at the chart based on origin and destination to determine the cost of your ride.

For traveling between the different cities in Thailand on a budget, I recommend taking advantage of buses and trains. In particular, overnight buses and trains are great options that allow you to save on a night of accommodation costs. The slower you travel, the cheaper it is. This is because you’ll have time to take slower transportation methods, and you’ll be moving from place to place a lot slower. This will obviously greatly depend on how much time you have for your trip. In general though, taking local buses is a great way to budget travel and save money. Here are some prices for reference: 

Costs for Transportation in Thailand 

• Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Bus: $20 USD
• Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train: $38 USD
• Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Plane: Flights start as low at $30 USD round trip
• Bangkok to Koh Samui by Plane: $150-200 USD round trip

One thing to note for the flight cost is that while this is extremely cheap, sometimes even cheaper than the train option these prices do not include a checked bag. You will also need to factor in the cost for getting to and from the airport, and you won’t have the advantage of saving on a night of accommodation costs. Plus, I personally find that the overnight train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a fun, unique experience to have while in Thailand, whether you’re on a budget or not! 

If you’re planning on spending most of your trip on the islands, and don’t care to visit Bangkok or the North, you might want to consider flying into Phuket or Krabi. You can find some cheap international flights that fly direct to Phuket.

Don’t forget travel insurance

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How to Eat and Drink in Thailand on a Budget? 

Eat street food! Eat local food! Okay fine, I’ll elaborate a bit here, but really if you follow those two guidelines you’ll be set. Thailand has some of the cheapest, and most delicious food that I had while in Southeast Asia. Although portions do tend to be on the smaller side in Thailand, especially when compared to Western portions, they are super cheap. You can easily eat a full meal for $1-2.

My general rule of thumb is that the more local people you see eating at a restaurant, the better it is going to be. If the restaurant is advertising lots of Western dishes and A/C, it’s probably not as great.

If you’re planning on enjoying lots of local beers, 7/11 will be your best friend. It is super common to grab beers at 7/11 for beach days or hostel hangs, as they tend to have the cheapest prices in town. It is also a great place to get a large bottle of water, as tap water in Thailand is not drinkable. To avoid single-use plastic as much as possible, I recommend purchasing the largest bottle possible. From here you can refill a reusable water bottle each day to stay hydrated.

Here are some average costs for food in Thailand

• Street Pad Thai: $1
• Main Dish at Local Restaurant: $2-4
• Western Dish $5-6
• 1.5 Liter Water Bottle $0.75
• Fresh Coconut $2-3
• Local Beer (Convenience Store) $1-2

Where to Stay in Thailand on a Budget?

Where to stay in bangkok .

Once Again Hostel  –  Once Again Hostel  is one of my absolute favorite hostels that I’ve ever stayed at! I have stayed here on two occasions and have never been disappointed. Great location, super cute common area, and silent rooms. I think that this is the only 12 bed hostel dorm that I’ve ever stayed in that is actually quiet!

Glur Hostel  – Glur Hostel is another adorable hostel option. The hostel is conveniently located next to the Saphan Taksin BTS stop and the water ferry line. Staying here makes it super easy to get around the city. There is also a basic breakfast available 24/7.

If hostels aren’t your thing, don’t worry! There are tons of hotel options with private rooms in the $15-25 range. You can easily find something to suit any budget.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

There are so many amazing and affordable places to stay in Chiang Mai – hotels, hostels and apartments!

Pha Thai Hotel

• 99 The Gallery Hotel
• Serviced Apartment in Nimman

A beautiful centrally-located hotel in the Old Town of Chiang Mai. Make sure to book the deluxe room with the balcony. Delicious breakfast included in the room rate.

Where to Stay in Pai

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand on a budget, Pai is a great option! This sleepy backpacker town in Northern Thailand is cheap, laidback, and moves at a very slow pace. You can expect to find cheap accommodation, great street food, and plenty of free, outdoor activities that can be reached by motorbike.

Overall I think where you stay in Pai really depends on whether or not you’ll be renting a scooter to get around. If you’re renting a scooter, then everything is closeby and easy to get to. However, if you are not comfortable renting a scooter and plan to rely on taxis, then I’d recommend staying close to the center of town.

Paddy Haven Fields

Individual bungalows outside of town overlooking a lush paddy field. Shared bathrooms. Amazing sunset views.

Baan Pai Riverside

Individual riverfront bungalows with private bathrooms right in the heart of Pai town. Breakfast available.

Spicy Pai Backpackers  – although I never personally stayed at Spicy Pai, it has been recommended to me so many times over the years. It is located a but outside of town, so renting a scooter is recommended.

Where to Stay on Koh Tao

Koh Tao is easily one of my favorite islands in Thailand. Known for it’s great diving, there are endless water activities to enjoy on this island. It’s what I would consider a mid-range island. It is not as cheap or rowdy as Koh Phangan, known for the famous Full Moon Party. However, it is also not to quiet, expensive nearby Koh Samui.

Where to Stay in Koh Phangan 

Echo Beach Hostel  – dorm rooms start at $3 USD a night, do I need to say anything else? This hostel definitely caters to a younger party crowd, but it’s a great option if you’re looking for that scene. Many people looking to experience the Full Moon Party will stay here.

Top Tips for Visiting Thailand on A Budget 

I’ve covered many of these top tips in the various topic questions above, but I’ll outline the top tips below. 

• Eat Street Food – Seriously, eat all of the street food. Honestly you should be eating as much street food as possible even if you aren’t traveling to Thailand on a budget. Thailand has so much incredible street food to try, and it is all so delicious and cheap. Don’t be afraid to try it all.
• Reduce Alcohol Consumption (Or Buy it at a Convenience Store) – Alcohol is one of those things that can really add up when you’re traveling on a budget. I wouldn’t say that alcohol is expensive in Thailand, especially compared to Western prices, but if you’re hoping to travel on a budget of $25-30 a day, you’ll need to factor that in. At bars in Thailand a beer costs around $3, so 7-11 will be your friend for cheap beer and bottled water!
• Travel to Thailand during the Low Season – This is my budget recommendation for any city really. If you are able visit on the shoulder seasons, the time before the high and low seasons, you’ll be able to find great flight and accommodation deals.
• Take Advantage of Public Transportation – Overnight trains and buses are a great way to move throughout Thailand cheaply. Plus, you can save on a night of accommodation! 
• Haggle – Hagginling, or trying to get a bargain on quoted prices, is a common practice in Southeast Asia. Foreigners are often quoted as high as 5x the local price. I always work to get that number down a bit, while also remaining respectful of the conversion rates working in our favor. Don’t get ripped off and overcharged, but also don’t haggle over a few cents, please.
• Avoid Extra Trips to the ATM – As with most foreign destinations, ATMs can have extremely high service fees. I found that many of the ATMs in Thailand had a fee as high as $10 USD each withdrawal. 
• Rent a Motorbike  – Renting a motorbike is a great, and affordable way to get around without taking making taxis or tuktuks. However, please make sure you wear a helmet and never drink and drive.

TRAVEL TIPS

🏘️ Book your accommodation

Booking.com will help you to book accommodation in advance and check availability

✈️ Book your flight in advance

To find the cheapest flight options, you can use WayAway and find the most suitable option for you

🧾 Get your tickets and tours

with Viator and GetYourGuide to get the most out of your journey

Visiting Thailand? Here are some other articles to check out:

• Chiang Mai Things to Do
• 10 Days in Thailand
• 48 Hours in Bangkok
• Best cafes and restaurants in Pai

Like what you read about visiting Thailand on a budget? Make sure to pin it for later!

12 Best things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand

11 Cafes and Restaurants to try in Pai, Thailand

8 Restaurants in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Mai Things to Do: What you Need to Know

Bangkok Food & Restaurant Guide

8 Best Things to do in Pai, Thailand

Let's get to know each other, keep me updated.

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Phuket Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand . The island is the biggest in the country and boasts a wide range of beaches as well as a vibrant nightlife and large expat scene.

Backpacking, partying, coming to learn Muay Thai, lounging at the resorts — Phuket is one of those places that has something for everyone.

That said, Phuket also illuminates the good and bad of Thai tourism — from overdeveloped beaches and sex tourism to tiny towns with no tourists that showcase authentic Thailand.

While most visitors stick to the overdeveloped south, if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the overdevelopment and crowds. In fact, the north part of the island is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Thailand. It’s a paradise!

This travel guide to Phuket will show you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time on this popular island getaway!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Phuket

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Phuket

1. Chill on the beach

Phuket is all about the beaches. If you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the overdevelopment, expensive prices, and crowds. Do this, and you’ll see that Phuket is a lovely destination. Check out Mai Khao, Surin, Freedom, and Naithon for the best beaches!

2. Visit the temples

Most of Phuket’s population is Thai-Buddhist and there are close to 40 Buddhist Temples located all over the island. Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the island’s most important; Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, the only temple in Karon Beach, is small but attractive; and Wat Chalong is also beautiful.

3. Cruise Phang Nga Bay

Lined by limestone cliffs, collapsed caves, and archaeological sites, these glorious emerald-green waters form a delightful bay. It’s also where the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed. Day trips can be had from anywhere on the island and cost 3,500 THB.

4. Visit the gibbons

Run by volunteers and financed by donations, the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center rescues gibbons from captivity. There is no touching, but visitors can watch them from a viewing platform. On your two-hour visit, you’ll learn about gibbons. A visit costs 4,000 THB and you must book in advance.

5. Tour the Similan Islands

Just 84 kilometers (52 miles) northwest of Phuket are the Similan Islands. It’s one of the few places in Thailand with environmental protection. Only two (#4 and #8) of the nine islands are publicly accessible. The preserve is open to visitors from October 15-May 15 and costs 500 THB to enter.

Other Things to See and Do in Phuket

1. skip patong.

This is the main tourist section of Phuket, filled with crowded beaches, resorts, hawkers, bars, and sadly, a lot of sex tourists. Unless you want to get drunk a lot, try to avoid this beach at all costs (although I do still recommend taking a cooking class near here). There are much better beaches around, like Hat Karon, Surin, and Mai Khao Beach.

2. Learn to cook traditional Thai food

If you are looking to learn how to make Thai food, take a class at Pum’s Thai Cooking School. It’s one of the best souvenirs you can take back with you: the knowledge to make some of your favorite dishes from Thailand! There are several of these schools in Thailand, and the one in Phuket is on Patong Beach. You can take classes ranging from 30 minutes to 6 hours. Classes start at 500 THB for a 30-minute mini-class, and full classes (3+ hours) start from 1,500 THB.

3. Watch a Muay Thai fight

To see something truly Thai, watch some Muay Thai. This is a form of combat that combines striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, and is known as “the art of eight limbs.” It requires extreme mental and physical discipline to train to be a Muay Thai fighter. The Patong Boxing Stadium is the destination to see regular matches or go to Patong Beach where you can watch these disciplined fighters in action. You can usually find tickets for around 1,500-2,000 THB.

4. Visit Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park

Take a trip to the Khao Phra Thaeo Conservation Development and Extension Center, a center focused on preserving the environment. The center contains a park with giant trees in the midst of dense a dense forest that is home to a number of endangered animals and wildlife including boars, mouse deer, langurs, and gibbons. It’s also the last remaining evergreen rainforest of Phuket. Make sure to check out the Nam Tok Sai waterfall, which is located close to the park headquarters. There is also a floating restaurant located in the mangroves! Admission is 200 THB.

5. See the Thalang National Museum

If you are eager to find out more about historical Phuket, visit the Thalang National Museum. The museum holds an exhibition of ancient artifacts from Old Phuket and items used during the war with Myanmar (1809-1812). Learn about the local life through exhibits on the island’s tin mining history, indigenous culture, and Chinese heritage. There’s a monument outside to Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon, two sisters revered heroines who helped save Phuket during the Battle of Thalang during the Burmese-Siamese War. Visiting this museum is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of the island. It’s 30 THB.

6. Enjoy the viewpoints

Phuket has many scenic viewpoints that are great for taking in the stunning island views. Promthep Cape and Karon View Point tend to be the most popular, but another great spot is the Kata viewpoint. Nothing is better than watching a golden sunset from these points. Your camera will thank you!

7. Rent a bike

Renting either a bike or motorbike gives you the freedom to explore Phuket. Find your way to Laem Singh Beach, a more secluded and laid-back spot with some great snorkeling opportunities. Just be careful as biking in Phuket can be a little dangerous as traffic is hectic at times. You can expect to pay about 250 THB a day for a basic motorbike. If you’d rather do a guided half-day bike tour, expect to pay around 1,800 THB.

8. Explore Sirinat National Park

This national park was founded in the early 1980s and consists of three beach areas along the northwest coast of Phuket. It includes the beaches Nai Yang, Sai Kaew, and Mai Khao, as well as the mangrove forest where saltwater and freshwater mix. This is a good place for camping too if you enjoy the outdoors. During the spring, endangered Leatherback Turtles come here to lay their eggs. Park entrance costs 200 THB. The park is closed between June 1st-July 31st.

9. Check out the Phuket Mining Museum

Located in Kathu, this museum highlights the history of Phuket’s mining industry (tin mining has been a large industry here). It’s located in a spacious, colonial villa and is one of the most interesting museums on the island. There are a couple of neat models and even a re-creation of an opium den! Some of the models seem so real, it’s like you are living it. You also get a chance to see some of the mining methods used back when Phuket was a major tin mining center. Entry is 100 THB.

10. Stroll the Phuket Weekend Market

Known also as the Naka market, this market is located right outside of Phuket Town. It offers a crazy assortment of local and secondhand goods, interesting objects, and a huge variety of food. The market is broken up into two sections: the covered section (which sells everything from jeans to pirated DVDs), and the open market (which has food, food, and more food). It’s open Sundays from 4pm-10pm.

11. Go snorkeling

Phuket has over 30 beaches, and all of them are pretty incredible. While not all of them are great for snorkeling, some of the best are Laem Singh Beach, Ao Sane, Ya Nui, and Surin. You might want to bring your own gear, as renting it all the time can get a bit pricy. It is possible to buy some cheap gear in Phuket too. Snorkel rental is generally around 200 THB for a mask, snorkel, and fins. Alternately, you can do a snorkeling day trip, which generally costs around 2,500 THB and includes pickup at your hotel, gear, and food while you’re out on the boat.

12. Visit the Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundation is a charity that helps the stray dogs and cats you see on the streets of Phuket ( soi means street in Thai). The non-profit has been extremely successful, and since its founding in 2003, has reduced the stray dog population by over 90% through its spay/neuter programs. To meet and play with the animals (weekdays only), submit a volunteering form on their website. Longer volunteer opportunities are also offered, and donations are always welcome.

13. Explore some waterfalls

Some of the biggest and best waterfalls in Thailand are in Phuket. Bang Pae, Ton Sai, and Kathu are the three most popular. They are all at the end of scenic nature walks too. Kathu is free and entry to Khao Phra Thaeo National Park for Bang Pae and Ton Sai is 200 THB.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

Riding an elephant is the dream of many a tourist – until you realize how badly elephants are treated and the injuries that they incur all in the name of a quick ride. Luckily, in recent years there’s been a large movement to protect the elephants and raise awareness as to why riding them is an unethical practice. Visiting or volunteering at an elephant sanctuary is the best way to see these majestic beasts, and one of the oldest sanctuaries is Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. A half-day visit including lunch and transportation to the sanctuary costs 3,000 THB. Whatever you do, don’t ride elephants!

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Ko Phi Phi Travel Guide

Phuket Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs 350-450 THB per night while a bed in an 8-10-bed dorm costs 275-350 THB. Private rooms for two people with ensuite bathrooms cost 650-800. Free Wi-Fi, linens, and air-conditioning are standard at hostels in Phuket. Breakfast isn’t usually included, although some have cafes where you can purchase breakfast.

Hostels in Phuket often have extra amenities and offerings, such as free drinks, coworking spaces, and outdoor swimming pools. Lub d Patong even has a Muay Thai boxing ring in the middle of their lobby.

There are also campgrounds on Phuket. Expect to pay 200 THB per person for a basic plot and tent. If you have your own tent, it’s usually around 150 THB.

Budget hotel prices – A night in a centrally located budget hotel costs around 850-1,200 THB for a room with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. About half of the hotels include free breakfast.

Phuket surprisingly has some of the least-expensive 5-star hotels in Thailand, often as low as 2,500 THB per night! The Memory at On On Hotel is a great choice (and it was featured in the movie The Beach )! Prices remain fairly consistent across the island, even away from busy Patong.

Private Airbnb rooms are 600-825 THB per night, while entire villas or apartments average 1,200 THB per night.

Food – Over the centuries, Thai cuisine has taken on influences from neighboring countries, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. All these influences mesh to become Thai’s flavorful national cuisine, which is aromatic and spicy. Expect a lot of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries that differ based on region.

Thai cuisine uses fresh (not dried) herbs and spices, with many ingredients used in one dish to create layers of flavor. Typical flavors include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce. Coconut milk is commonly used in curries and desserts, especially in central and southern Thailand.

Popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, pad thai (a stir-fried noodle dish), som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

In Phuket, Hokkien mee is an incredibly popular noodle dish that originated in China but arrived here by way of nearby Malaysia. Being an island, seafood is a big part of most of Phuket’s dishes.

Dessert is usually fruit or various dishes comprised of coconut milk or glutinous rice. Mango sticky rice combines all these elements in a popular choice.

Compared to the rest of Thailand, food is a bit more expensive in Phuket. Lunch at a casual Thai restaurant costs around 150-180 THB. A dish, such as a curry or fried rice, at a nice sit-down restaurant offering traditional cuisine costs 190-280 THB.

Western meals start at around 330 THB, even for a basic pizza. Dinner with drinks typically costs around 270-300 THB or more, but it can be more expensive if you’re right on Patong Beach. If you are having a fish meal or getting wine, expect to pay around 500-675 THB. In the major tourist area, you’ll probably pay 25% more.

You can grab a beer for about 60-75 THB, but on Bangla Road they’re 100 THB or higher. Remember that buying beers from 7-Eleven vs in bars and restaurants saves you lots of money.

If you eat at the street stalls, the food is not only cheap, but it’s also utterly delicious. A meal from a street stall can cost as little as 80-120 THB.

A week of groceries including basic staples like rice, veggies, and some meat or fish costs around 1,040 THB.

Backpacking Phuket Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to spend about 1,100 THB per day. On this budget, you can get a bed in a hostel dorm, cook some meals and eat cheap street food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free or cheap activities like hiking and enjoying the beaches.

On a mid-range budget of 2,525 THB per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or watching Muay Thai fights.

On a “luxury” budget of 4,475 THB per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a scooter or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Phuket Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Although Phuket is more expensive than many other islands in Thailand, there are still plenty of ways to save money here:

• Eat street food – Don’t be afraid to eat the street food here. It’s safe — even safer than most restaurants. The best of Thailand’s food is on the street, and it costs a fraction of what you pay at a restaurant.
• Buy beer at convenience stores – Buy your beers from the supermarket or convenience stores as they are much cheaper here than anywhere else.
• Ride in a songthaew or rent a bike – Songthaews are converted pickup trucks that act as shared taxis and cost less than a tuk-tuk or a taxi. If you are looking to get around on your own, renting a bike is also a great option and can usually be done for about 250 THB per day.
• Come during low season – Prices drop drastically during the rainy season between May-October. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is a cheap time to visit.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who not only provide a free place to stay but who can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Bargain hard – When shopping at the markets, use your negotiation skills. The rule of thumb is the more you buy, the cheaper the prices so shop in packs for the best deals.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Phuket, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Phuket

Phuket has tons of cheap accommodation. Here are my suggested places to stay in Phuket:

• Pineapple Guesthouse
• Bodgea Party Hostel
• BearPacker Patong Hostel
• Dfeel Hostel
• Lub D Phuket Patong

How to Get Around Phuket

Local Bus – Small buses connect Phuket’s Old Town with the main beach resorts around the island, like Patong and Karon. They’re slow because of the number of stops to make, but they’re cheap and reliable. Shared minibusses are also common. It’s just 100-200 THB to get across the island or 150 THB from the airport to Patong Beach, but it can be an exercise in patience.

Songthaews – Songthaews are covered trucks that have been converted into multi-passenger vehicles (the truck’s box is usually converted with two wooden benches for seating). There are no set stops like the local bus — you just have to flag one down that is headed in your direction and get off when you need to. There is usually a sign on the dashboard to let you know where the final stop is. Negotiate your fare ahead of time. A ride in a songthaew usually starts around 25-50 THB.

A songthaew from Patong Beach to the airport costs 1,000 THB, and to other beaches (like Kamala, Kata, or Surin) it costs around 500 THB.

Motorbike Taxi – A motorbike taxi costs about 60 THB per short journey around town. It’s quick but it’s not the safest option so I’d probably avoid them if you can.

Tuk-Tuk – The tuk-tuks in Phuket look more like songthaews than the tuk-tuks in other parts of Thailand. These can be even more expensive than metered taxis because the drivers work together to avoid undercutting each other. Since there is no public transportation between the beaches, and because other transportation tends to stop early in the evening, tuk-tuk drivers know that they can charge higher prices. A 3-kilometer (2-mile) ride in a tuk-tuk can cost about 335 THB. Shorter distances average about 100 THB.

Taxi – Metered taxis are expensive, but sometimes they’re cheaper than tuk-tuks. Their fares start at 50 THB per two kilometers. Non-metered taxis typically charge flat rates and are not really necessary for long distances. An hour-long journey from the airport to Patong is around 900 THB.

Ridesharing – The Grab app is like the Uber of Thailand — prices are cheaper than taxis, and you’re driven by a local in their vehicle. You can pay via the app or in cash, and you get a price estimate for your journey before you even get in the car. Having said that, in Phuket, the prices are sometimes not much different than taxis. You can get from Patong to Karon for less than 200 THB, while Kata to Karon is about 120 THB.

When to Go to Phuket

Like the other islands in this part of Thailand, the peak season in Phuket is from November to April. If you travel from May through October, you avoid the busiest season and save quite a bit of money, although it may be rainy.

November to February are the coolest months, with temperatures between 23-30°C (73-86°F). February is the driest month and is the best time of the year to be a beach bum.

The end of March to mid-May is the hottest time of year. It’s just before monsoon season hits, so humidity is high and temperatures soar into the high 30s°C (90s°F). If you can’t tolerate the heat, don’t come during this time.

Mid-May to October is the Monsoon season in Phuket. Although it rains for a while each day, the temperature averages about 28°C (84°F) per day. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is an excellent time to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Phuket

Phuket is safe, especially for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. It’s one of the easiest places in Thailand to meet other solo travelers, so you’re never really on your own here.

That said, petty theft (including bag snatching) can occur here so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in popular tourist areas. Avoid flashing your valuables and don’t leave any valuables unattended when at the beach.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

Patong is a party destination so most people run into problems here when they’re drunk and stupid. Don’t overdo it, and always be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Although uncommon, travelers have been known to fail victim to drugging so they can be mugged or molested. Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers for that reason.

Do not do drugs or participate in the sex industry. Both can have severe consequences here and lead to huge fines and jail time. Don’t risk it.

If you’re worried about scams, read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more information about safety in Southeast Asia, check out this article .

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Phuket Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Phuket Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Thailand Trip Cost: 10 Days In Thailand On A Budget

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 20, 2023

Categories Thailand

Thailand is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia and a popular destination for all types of travelers. This isn't surprising as Thailand has a lot going for it like friendly people, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich heritage.

If you are like me and like doing a little research before traveling to a country, you are probably interested in the approximate Thailand trip cost. Personally, I was very interested in how much money we would need to travel around Thailand.

It turned out that, despite being a tourist destination for many years, travel in Thailand is still pretty cheap! Or at least it can be, it all depends on your personal preference and choices.

You can go all out, stay in fancy 5-star hotels and resorts and go on interesting organized tours with private transport.

Or you can travel around Thailand on a budget, eat cheap (but delicious) street food and stay at budget (but quality) hotels and hostels.

Thailand trip budget

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

How much is a trip to Thailand?

In this Thailand budget article, you can find all our Thailand expenses. So if you are wondering how much money to bring to Thailand for your trip, this is the perfect post for you!

During our first trip to Thailand, we spent approximately 2200THB / €60 / $67 per day as a couple. We traveled to Thailand on a backpacker budget and tried to keep our expenses as low as possible.

We've returned to Thailand several times since then, and during these trips, our budget was higher. We stayed at several 4 and 5-star hotels, did a couple of organized tours and during our most recent Thailand trip, we traveled with our kids.

I wasn't as precise in budget keeping as during our first trip, but my estimate was that our daily average was closer to 3500THB / €100 / $107.

So is Thailand cheap or expensive? It can be both, but it's up to you and the choices you make! In the infographic below you can find more detailed information about the cost of a trip to Thailand.

How to travel Thailand on a budget?

The infographic gives you a quick overview of how much (or actually how little) you can spend during your trip to Thailand.

But it's important to remember that the amount you'll spend depends on your travel style, the length of your trip, and the type of accommodation you choose.

That being said, compared to countries such as Japan , New Zealand , Canada , and Europe , Thailand is still a very affordable destination.

Are you still wondering how much money to take to Thailand for 10 days?

Generally speaking, you can travel around Thailand on a budget of $35-$70 per day (per person). As you can see in the infographic, we spent $67 per day as a couple.

It's important to note that this infographic is based on the daily budget in Thailand for our first trip (the budget backpacker trip).

Further down in the post, you can find more details about the cost of accommodation, transport, food and drinks, and activities.

Thailand travel budget: important facts and figures

• I traveled around Thailand with my husband, all expenses are for the two of us together.
• During our first trip to Thailand, we spent 10 days in the country.
• I quote prices in Thai Baht as well as Euros (€) and US Dollars ($). When we were in Thailand, €1 was around 37THB and $1 around 33THB, but as the exchange rate varies this might be a little different now. You can check the current exchange rate on XE.com .
• Thailand is one of the best cheap destinations for couples . In total, we spent 22220 THB (€600/$670) during the 10 days we were in Thailand. As such, our Thailand travel budget per day comes down to an average of 2222THB (€60/$67) and includes almost all expenses in  Thailand. Please note that flights to Thailand are not included in the budget.
• Also, as with my budget breakdowns for the Philippines and Malaysia , I excluded the costs of scuba diving on Koh Tao . I feel this would not be a fair representation of the average cost per day in Thailand. Diving is (relatively) expensive and not everyone will go diving in Thailand, therefore, I excluded these costs from the Thailand budget.

Thailand budget travel tips

When planning a Thailand budget trip, your total Thailand travel costs all depend on your way of traveling.

In general, the slower you travel, the lower your average daily costs. Street food is cheaper than European food or eating in restaurants.

Drinking alcohol will increase your Thailand budget per day. Tuk-tuks and taxis are more expensive than public transport. And so on.

This budget breakdown includes 2 flights, and even though they were very cheap flights it still increased the average daily costs.

Also, despite the fact that we were budget travelers, we spent the final two nights of our 10 days in Thailand at the luxurious Tarna Align Resort on the tropical island of Koh Tao.

This was by far the most expensive accommodation of our 5-month trip , however, it was worth every bath because we wanted to end our trip in style. And who doesn't like a semi-private pool with a beautiful view…

Daily travel expenses in Thailand

Now that you know the most important facts and figures of our Thailand budget, it's time for a deep dive into our Thailand travel expenses. Our daily travel budget can be divided into four categories:

• Accommodation: 39% of our daily travel costs
• Transportation: 20% of our daily travel costs
• Food&Drinks: 39% of our daily travel costs
• Paid activities: 2% of our daily travel costs

Plan your Southeast Asia trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Book your transport tickets (train, bus, ferry, minivan, and more) via 12Go.Asia ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours with Klook and Get Your Guide . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

1. How much does accommodation cost in Thailand?

Of the 10 days, I spent in Thailand I only slept in hotels for 8 nights. I spent one night on the boat from Koh Tao to Surat Thani and allocated these costs to transport.

On my last day in Thailand, I took a flight home in the middle of the night so we didn't have accommodation costs for that night either.

We stayed in a private room (no dorm rooms) at 5 different hotels and spent  850THB / €23 / $25,50  on accommodation on an average travel day. The total amount we spent on accommodation was 8500THB / €230 / $255.

In the table below you can find 3 of the 5 hotels, I stayed at. I only included the places I recommend, so I haven't included the 2 hotels that I wouldn't return to myself.

2. How much does transportation cost in Thailand?

Let’s take a closer look at transportation in Thailand. There are many ways to travel around the country, such as trains, buses, taxis, tuk tuks, minivans, ferries, and of course the BTS and MRT trains in Bangkok.

One of the most popular and cost-effective ways to travel in Thailand is taking a night train .

You'll save money on accommodation because you're taking a sleeper train. Plus, you'll save valuable time by covering (large) distances at night, so you can see more of Thailand.

Another budget-friendly way to travel in Thailand is by catching a local bus . Bus services are available in all of the major cities and most of the smaller towns as well.

This is a great way to explore parts of Thailand where there aren't any train tracks (such as the more rural areas of the country).

A quick note: when traveling in Thailand (and Southeast Asia in general), you need to be prepared for delays. Most of these delays will be relatively short but sometimes your train, bus or minivan can be delayed for hours (without anyone offering an explanation).

The easiest way to get from A to B in Thailand is by booking your transportation ticket via 12Go Asia . This is an online platform where you can book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, minivans, and private transfers all around Southeast Asia.

I've used 12Go Asia several times and had great experiences with both the ease of booking on the platform itself as well as their fast and friendly customer service when I needed to amend our booking.

For example, you can use 12Go Asia to book tickets from:

• Ferry tickets from Donsak Pier (Surat Thani) to Koh Samui ( check availability here )
• Train or bus tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai ( check availability here )
• Train ticket from Surat Thani to Bangkok ( check availability here )

How much did we spend on transportation in Thailand?

Our average transportation costs were 450THB(€12/$14) per day and the total cost of transport was 4500THB (€120/$140).

3. How much does food cost in Thailand?

Thailand is renowned for its delicious and diverse cuisine! The key to Thai cuisine is its balance of five essential flavors: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter.

This balance of flavors is achieved through a careful blend of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. Each dish is a unique combination of these flavors and ingredients, making Thai cuisine both complex and delicious.

Some of the best things to try are the various curries, Pad Thai, Som Tam (spicy green papaya salad), Khao Man Gai (chicken and rice), Tom Yum soup, and mango sticky rice.

How much did we spend on food and drinks in Thailand?

Good news: the food in Thailand is not only really tasty, but it’s also very cheap! That is if you eat local food at local restaurants.

Eating Western Food always triples the price of dinner when traveling around Southeast Asia.

So when it comes to food, explore the local markets to find inexpensive meals and try delicious street food whenever you have the chance.

Anyway, let’s talk numbers .

On an average day, we spent 870THB (€23,60/$26) on food and drinks. Our total costs for food and drinks were 8700THB (€236/$260).

Also read: 10 best places to eat in Maenam

4. How much do tours and activities cost in Thailand?

When you’re in Thailand, make sure to take advantage of all the free activities the country has to offer, like exploring Buddhist temples, local markets, National Parks, and pretty beaches.

Doing so will help you make the most of your vacation while still sticking to a tight budget.

When planning your Thailand trip, it's also worth looking into tour companies that offer (discounted) activities that can help you save money while still getting the best experience.

Klook is the largest tour operator in Southeast Asia, but Get Your Guide has been working really hard on growing their SEA offers as well so be sure to check out those websites as well when you're planning your Thailand activities.

Some of the most worthwhile tours and activities in Thailand are:

• Bangkok city tour with a local guide : immerse yourself in the cultural and historical heritage of Bangkok by exploring the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Check availability .
• Damnoen Saduak market and Maeklong railway market (day trip from Bangkok): arrive at the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market by paddleboat and discover the vibrant atmosphere of the iconic Maeklong Railway Market. Check availability .
• Erawan National Park and Kanchanaburi tour (day trip from Bangkok): soak up Thai history on this guided day trip to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok in a climate-controlled bus. Visit Erawan National Park, the JEATH Museum, and the Bridge over the river Kwai. Check availability .
• Ayutthaya day tour from Bangkok : admire Thailand's history and cultural heritage on an exciting full-day adventure on this Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok! Check availability .
• Angthong Marine Park day trip from Koh Samui : experience the beautiful panorama view of Angthong Marine Park and snorkel at Koh Wao or Koh Tay Plow. Visit Emerald Lake, go kayaking, or hike up Mae Koh. Check availability .
• Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai : learn how to make delicious Thai food and discover the secrets behind its unique flavors and tastes. Check availability .

How much did we spend on activities in Thailand?

We did an Advanced PADI Open Water Course on Koh Tao, but as I mentioned above, I didn't include the costs of this course in this Thailand budget breakdown as most people won't go scuba diving.

Besides diving, our only paid activities in Thailand were a visit to Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha, and going to a movie at the SF cinema.

The entrance fee for Wat Pho was 100THB per person and the SF Cinema at Terminal 21 was 160THB per ticket. We did many more activities, such as exploring Bangkok and Chiang Mai, but these were all free!

Our average activity costs per day were 52THB (€1,40/$1,50), and the total for activities comes down to 520THB (€14/$15).

5. Travel insurance costs

I didn't include the cost of travel insurance in our Thailand budget breakdown because we use our travel insurance for all our trips, not just for our Thailand itinerary.

However, that doesn't take away the fact that making sure you have proper travel insurance is super important .

It helps protect you and your belongings in the event of a mishap during your travels. Furthermore, it provides coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen items, and more.

Also, having good travel insurance will provide you peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you have a safety net in place.

With so much to consider when planning a trip, having the right travel insurance can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey without stressing out about things that can go wrong.

How to save money when planning a trip to Thailand

Now that you know the costs of a trip to Thailand, here are some practical tips about how to stretch your travel budget.

When it comes to saving money in Thailand, it's important to plan carefully, look for discounts, and be flexible with your itinerary to make the most of your travel budget for Thailand.

Avoid peak season (travel during the low season instead)

Start by researching the best time of year to visit Thailand as flight costs and hotel prices vary throughout the year.

The high season in Thailand is from November until February. During these months accommodation prices are at their highest.

So if you have the option to be flexible with your travel dates and able to travel during shoulder season, this is a great way to save money on your Thailand trip.

Save money on flights

You can look for the cheapest flight to Thailand on websites like Kiwi.com . Try different travel dates and see how this affects the price of your flight.

Generally, the cheapest days to fly are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Airlines often offer discounted fares on these days, so it's worth checking the booking sites and comparing prices on different days of the week.

You’ll get a better deal by booking your flight in advance. For domestic flights 1-3 months before your trip is ideal.

That being said, I booked our tickets from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and from Surat Thani to Bangkok last minute (only a couple of days before our flight) and still managed to find a great deal (around $25 per person including luggage).

Reputable low-cost airlines in Thailand are Air Asia, Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai Smile. It's often cheaper to fly to Don Mueang International Airport for domestic flights than to Suvarnabhumi Airport.

For international flights, it’s best to book 2-8 months in advance. Tickets to Bangkok are pretty much always the cheapest option but keep an eye open for tickets to Chiang Mai and Phuket as well.

Lastly, you may be able to find cheaper flights if you're willing to be flexible with your departure and arrival times.

Sure, it’s not ideal to arrive in the middle of the night, but if it saves you hundreds of dollars it’s worth losing one night of good sleep.

✈️ Click here to find the best ticket deals

Book your accommodation in advance

Once you've got your flights booked, it’s time to research accommodation options. I always use Agoda and Booking to find the best value-for-money accommodation for our trips.

I recommend checking both platforms before you book to make sure you get the best deals on hotel rooms.

What's great about accommodation in Thailand is that there are so many options for any budget.

There are luxurious 5-star resorts (such as the Kimpton Kitalay on Koh Samui ), family hotels with a playground (like the Kokotel Dheva Thonglor in Bangkok), modern boutique hotels (like the Owl Poshtel in Kanchanaburi) and affordable budget accommodation (like the Au Bon hostel in Bangkok)

Please note that Agoda includes taxes in their price whereas Booking doesn't always include this. Make sure to check this before finalizing your booking.

Also, Thailand charges a hefty ATM fee and has a limit on how much cash you can withdraw per transaction. Therefore, it can be better to book with Agoda as you can often pay online with your credit card (and reduce your need for cash).

Travel cost per day in Thailand: in conclusion

I hope this post has given you an insight into the costs of a trip to Thailand. If you have any questions, leave a comment or  send me a message .

Also check out my travel budget posts for Cambodia , Laos , and Vietnam !

This post was updated in December 2022 .

Monday 2nd of October 2017

awesome information here,you go with husband , what if one go alone ,how much it will cost, thanks

Tuesday 3rd of October 2017

Thank you, happy to hear you enjoyed the post! Well, that depends if you want to stay in a private room or a dorm. If you prefer a private room you'll probably spend around €50 per day. Accommodation costs will be similar to ours, but you'll spend a little less on transport, food and activities. If you stay in a dorm I think €35-40 per day would be doable. Hope this helps! Enjoy your trip:-).

Tuesday 15th of November 2016

Its Indeed very helpful to plan my trip with your post which will start on 25th Nov 2016 for 10 nights...can you suggest few more (must try) Thai street food ...

P.S:Thank you Miss Pad Thai..hahahaaaa

Wednesday 16th of November 2016

Thank, happy to help:-). Green Curry is one of my favorite dishes, as is green papaya salad. Kai Jeow is another great dish and mango sticky rice is a divine dessert... Basically, pretty much all Thai food is delicious! Enjoy your trip!

Andrea Leblang

Monday 7th of March 2016

This is such an informative post - love it! We are headed to Thailand for a few months this spring. Definitely bookmarking this for our time there. Great tips, thanks!

I am so happy to hear that Andrea, you are very welcome:-). I wish you an amazing trip in Thailand!

You're making me miss Thailand so bad!! I loved my time there and the fact that everything was so cheap. Especially the food. Mmm... pad thai...

I know... Pad Thai! I was dreaming about Pad Thai after writing this post;-P

Sunday 6th of March 2016

I've done Thailand on a budget so many times, but now I've fallen in love with its luxury side, and the bargain prices that go with it. Thailand really is a country for every traveller.

True, Thailand is very versatile and I loved our stay at the luxurious Tarna Align:-). But my travel funds are not sufficient to stay only in high-class resorts. And I actually don't mind, I like budget travel, particularly using public transport because it's how the locals get around as well.

Tips From the Banker: The Real Cost of Travel in Thailand

02/18/2018 by Kristin Addis 74 Comments

2018 update: I originally wrote this post in 2013, traveling in Thailand on a shoestring. I returned this year with a bigger budget, spending more on accommodation and transport, though some categories, like food, have remained the same. You’ll see both options in this post.

I’ve now spent five months traveling in Thailand, making it my longest-traveled country on my Southeast Asian itinerary. During my three weeks in Laos and month in Cambodia , I found it possible to travel on an average of just USD$30 per day. Once I got to Thailand, however, keeping costs low became difficult.  For some reason, I started spending Baht like it was monopoly money, especially in the islands.

I had heard previously, and can now confirm, that the north of Thailand is easy on a tight budget.  As one moves south, costs for accommodation start to double, triple, and even quadruple.  Pricey accommodation accounted for my biggest expenditure, and drinks came in at a close second.

However, when I considered my overall expenditure, I realized that the costs were still very reasonable, especially considering that I was in Thailand during high season, including Christmas and New Years.

My average daily budget for Thailand ended up at $45/day.  Here is the breakdown:

Table of Contents

Accommodation:

Budget accommodation:  When it comes to cheap places to stay, Thailand can sometimes cost more simply due to where in the country you are. Back in Laos, I distinctly remember stressing about spending $6.25 per day on a private bungalow in 4000 Islands.  For the same accommodation in Bottle Beach on Koh Phangan, I was paying double.  The most I paid for a room in Thailand when I was traveling on a shoestring was $20, completely blowing my budget, considering I often found $2 accommodation in Cambodia.

That said, I was able to find decent and cheap dorms in Chiang Mai and Pai in northern Thailand for a mere $3-$4 nightly.

Midrange: Once I returned this year, I only wanted to opt for single rooms. I still found that I could get cheap ones in the north, like the $12 I spent for a private room in Chiang Mai . It was very basic, with nothing more than a twin bed and a shower, but it at least afforded me privacy.

The most expensive place I stayed in was Paradise Koh Yao at over $300 per night on Koh Yao Noi, while most of the time, I spent more like $30-$40 per night.

Transportation:

Regardless of budget, buses and trains are completely reasonable in price, ranging from $3 to $9 for a bus journey. I highly recommend skipping the tourist buses and opting for public ones. They often cost less, are more comfortable, and are less likely to make stops at expensive roadside restaurants.

My main transport issue used to be tuk tuks and cabs, but now with Uber and Grab Taxi, it’s easier to get around without getting scammed on prices. As a solo traveler, I do often have to foot the entire bill, though. I found that in Laos and Cambodia, tuk-tuks would haggle. In Thailand, they preferred to wait until another tourist came along who would pay the asking price. Given that they’re trying to run a business themselves, I can’t fault them for this. However, it made it hard as a solo traveler to save my money.

When possible, take songthaews, like from the airport in Chiang Mai or around old town. They’re only 20 baht per trip. Also, if you can’t take an Uber or songthaew, which are generally available only in larger towns, take motorbike taxis as they are the cheapest option.  Always at least try to haggle, and don’t take a taxi that isn’t in a queue.  If someone walks up to you, s/he is probably going to quote an outlandish rate.

The food in Thailand is fantastic and very cheap. Regardless of my budget, I usually eat street food because it’s delicious, fresh, authentic, and is honestly the same thing you’ll get in a restaurant. One can easily eat at a night market, sampling several different eats, for just a few dollars.  Generally, prices are not negotiable and the asking price should be paid.  Prices run from around USD$1 for  a dish like vegetarian pad thai, to $3 for a soup with beverage and rice, or $6 for fresh fish.

Where Thailand gets expensive is alcoholic beverages. In Laos and Cambodia, beer runs about USD$1. In Thailand, however, $3 and higher per drink is quite typical. Cutting alcohol from your budget in Thailand could literally save hundreds.

Cheap vs. Expensive Places in Thailand:

Chiang Mai, Pai , Chiang Rai , and other northern cities will tend to be very cheap, with costs increasing as one heads south, especially to the islands. Be sure to check out Koh Chang , lovingly referred to as Thailand’s last cheap island, if you still want an island experience for a fraction of the price.

Also consider time of year. High season (December through March) means double the prices for accommodation in most places in Southeast Asia. Thailand is no different.

Other Incidentals:

SIM cards are very cheap in Thailand.  I paid only $20 (with DTAC – a Thai carrier) for 3 gigs of 3G over the span of one month.  What’s more, service was great.

Massages are also cheap, generally costing around $6 for a full hour.

In general, Thailand can be very cheap to visit, especially during low season and in the north of the country.  Even in the south, considering the beautiful beaches and truly delicious eats, Thailand is still a great budget destination.

READ NEXT: Southeast Asia on a Budget Guide

About kristin addis.

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Suitcase Stories says

02/18/2013 at 12:46 pm

Thanks for sharing – We are heading to SE Asia at the end of the year so its good to get an idea of costs!

Kristin Addis says

02/18/2013 at 11:36 pm

Have a splendid time!

angelica says

04/10/2016 at 7:23 pm

I am so so glad I came across your webpage. Admiring everything you do. So saving up now for SE Asia. Love this! You are amazing. About to follow you on instagram and add on snap 🙂

Kristin says

04/13/2016 at 2:51 pm

Aw thanks so much! Enjoy SEA!

Lindsay Hogg says

02/18/2013 at 2:47 pm

This is all great info to know beforehand. thanks!

02/18/2013 at 3:15 pm

I feel you on the old solo traveller front – I got burned in the South of Thailand for it with accommodation but boy was it worth it! 🙂

Agreed, worth it 🙂

Christina says

02/19/2013 at 11:59 am

$45 a day sounds like a dream compared to Western Europe, especially Switzerland..why did we not go somewhere cheaper!?

02/20/2013 at 3:54 am

True, true. Europe is also awesome though, and must be done at some point in life!

GRRRL TRAVELER says

02/20/2013 at 2:05 am

Good post! I love that Thailand is so inexpensive. But after Cambodia and Laos, I can see how it occasionally doesn’t feel that way.

I took the buses in Thailand a lot.

02/20/2013 at 3:52 am

True, now that I’m in Australia, I have come to wonder what the heck my problem was forking over $20 for a room when now I must fork over the same for a salad. Oh, papaya salad for $1, I miss you!!

11/26/2019 at 2:20 am

great information to start planning my next journey! THANKS for sharing!

Erica Johansson says

02/21/2013 at 10:37 am

Thanks for the overview. I spent a week on Phuket in January, 1 night in Phuket Town and 6 nights in Nai Yang, apparently the island’s least touristy beach town. A Thai style vegatarian meal cost between $2-4 and the cheapest accommodation near the beach was a bungalow for $20, the cheapest fan room I found cost $40.

02/24/2013 at 5:02 am

I was able to find $3 dorms in Phuket Town with fans, but it was so hot, I bumped it up to $6 for air con. A rarity for me!

Jessica Dawdy says

02/23/2013 at 5:51 am

Great summary! Thailand is definitely cheap, but I always hear stories of its heyday when prices were more comparable to Cambodia and Laos – it’s still lovely, but I sometimes I wish I could have visited during that time.

I wish I could have experienced it long ago too. Oh well, that’s the way it goes!

02/25/2013 at 11:31 pm

That’s about what I paid until I got to the islands. If one just traveled in the north, s/he would spend next to nothing.

Aroundtheworldforhappiness says

04/08/2013 at 11:55 am

Awesome post!! Really great info! Thankx for the tips!

08/28/2013 at 3:43 am

Why don’t u visit sri lanka ?

Sophie says

07/11/2014 at 8:15 am

Great post Kristen, love following your blog. Heading out to Thailand and SE Asia in 3 weeks as my first solo trip. You were saying about getting stung with transport and accommodation on your own but I was hoping I wouldn’t be alone for long, meet people and then share these costs. Is this an unrealistic thought? Thanks!

07/12/2014 at 8:17 am

There were a lot of times I was able to share as well. It’s just in the smaller towns when I arrived alone and they knew I had no other option that they’d all band together and quote a ridiculous price that I had no choice but to pay.

Franca says

07/11/2014 at 11:27 pm

Good read Kirsten, very informative and useful to whoever wants to travel to Thailand. We found it being quite cheap, but in some areas can be a bit pricey probably thanks to the mass tourism developed. Still less expensive than Europe and a beautiful country to visit! 🙂

Anonymous says

12/09/2014 at 10:04 am

Hi, I was wondering if you knew a cheaper way to get from BKK down to the islands rather than the expensive tourist buses/trains that go? I found these were setting me back about £20($40) a pop! Any advice would be much appreciated.

12/09/2014 at 2:29 pm

Take the local train in that case. Where there’s a tourist option, always assume there’s also a local option. Ask the man in seat 61: http://www.seat61.com

Juwariah says

02/18/2015 at 7:33 am

Hi Im actually looking to go travelling next summer after my college graduation for 3 months in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. Do you think its possible to fit in 3 months of travelling in a budget of 7000 ?

02/18/2015 at 9:09 am

Yes that should be no problem at all. That’s doable on 3-4k once you’re on the ground.

10/30/2015 at 1:25 pm

This is awesome and very thorough. Will definitely use when I plan travel to Thailand!

10/30/2015 at 3:28 pm

Glad to be helpful!

Nallely Lopez says

11/06/2015 at 1:59 pm

Thank you for sharing, this is very helpful! Me and 4 of my friends plan to travel to Thailand next year so i have a couple questions for you.

1. How do you plan your itinerary? 2. Where is a good website to book guided tours in Thailand? or should we book once we are there? 3. How safe is the country? is there cities we should not visit?

p.s. I will be reading your other blogs 😉

11/06/2015 at 2:23 pm

1. I didn’t actually. I just showed up and did things very spontaneously. However this page might be pretty helpful to you for planning if you feel better about figuring it out ahead of time: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/thailand-guide/ 2. You really don’t need to book tours. Thailand is super simple to navigate and tours are way more expensive than independent travel. 3. I never felt in danger there though I’d suggest staying away from Pattaya because it’s just gross and seedy.

Hope that helps!

Steve Emmick says

11/09/2015 at 3:18 pm

Hey Kristen! I really felt like your advice very helpful. I Love to travel and would like to start a page of my own. Any advice? I’m leaving for Thailand in February and will be there for two months in around a 6k budget. Is that pretty doable? I live in Hawaii on the island of Maui, if you’ve never been here you should definitely visit. Thanks again for your helpful advice:) -Steve

11/10/2015 at 5:07 am

Very doable. You can live like a king on that budget and it’s doable for half of that.

I’ve been to Maui! It’s gorgeous. My uncle teaches at UH so I’ve been to Hawaii several times 🙂

01/06/2016 at 7:54 pm

Hi Kristin. The hubby and I are looking at traveling to Thailand this year for around 2 -3 weeks. We hope to visit Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Rai (or both!), Phuket and Koh Samui. We want to fit in a reasonable amount of activities and sightseeing, as well as some relaxing. My initial thought would be a budget of around $7000 NZD which excludes flights. This is close to 10k USD. Does this sound reasonable or far too much? I don’t want to share accommodation and would like to stay in mid-range hotels, not a backpackers etc. Also wondered about the ‘best time to visit’ – which I know is a hard one! I was thinking Sept/Oct. Thanks 🙂 Steph

01/07/2016 at 6:41 am

You don’t need anywhere near that much money for 2-3 weeks in Thailand! I think Phuket is really overrated and if you want something less touristy would suggest Koh Lanta or the beaches in and around Krabi. That time of year is the perfect time to go. Have fun!

01/16/2016 at 4:19 pm

hi kristin. We are travelling to Phuket in August I’ve heard mixed reviews of the weather there what are your thoughts on this month?. And also what could we expect to pay for dinner for a family of 6? Sounds like you have had an amazing time xx

01/17/2016 at 7:47 am

Hi Tina, you’ll have rain but it’s hardly ever all day long. If you eat street food then $6. Stay out of the tourist restaurants and go to the night markets. The food is better and it’s safe. Just pick the popular stalls that have lots of people eating there, including kids. Locals know the good stuff.

Greg Samui says

05/09/2016 at 12:49 pm

Very true about prices in Thailand and the difference between north and south.

I often get people saying ‘oh I’m going to go to Thailand and live like a king for $20 / day’.

Nope, not gonna happen anymore.

And in places like koh samui you might even spend more than in many cities in Europe :).

09/16/2016 at 4:19 pm

I am planning on going to Thailand for one month. I will be staying with my friends so I don’t need to count living expenses. I would just like to know how much you think it would cost. I have read several different articles and I am still quite puzzled on the cost. I have a budget of 1,500$ planned. I’m going to be staying in Nakhon Si Thammarat. What do you think budget wise? Is the budget good? How much money would you take for a month not counting living expenses.

09/18/2016 at 1:31 pm

That sounds pretty good as long as you’re frugal

10/22/2016 at 9:23 pm

I’m planning a trip to Thailand the first or second week of December to Phuket. I’m only staying a week. Any recommendation how much money I should take and any great spots to visit. Its a solo trip. What will the weather bee like?

Casey White says

11/29/2016 at 2:07 pm

Headed to Thailand in mid February to early March. It’s just three of us, and we want to island hop and trek around freely, so we weren’t planning on booking rooms. As it is High Season and as you explain prices to be higher especially in the southern areas, what on your thoughts about being able to get a room in places day of? I don’t want to get there and end up having to pay US$100 per night because we didn’t book anything. We are totally cool with hostels and huts. Again, if they are available as it’s high season. Do you think there are enough cheaper accommodations in the southern islands to not book in advance?

Thanks for your imput, anything helps!

11/29/2016 at 2:32 pm

The only time I ever bother to book in advance in Thailand is around Thai holidays or major worldwide ones that result in a lot of people having time off. December and New Years are definitely high season but even then I didn’t book all that far in advance. $100 per night is super high, and when I say it’s double prices down south I mean $20 for a private hut rather than maybe $10, but that varies from place to place.

Courtney Giese says

01/31/2017 at 7:36 pm

Hi! I just want to start off by saying that I follow a lot of travel blogs, and have wanted to travel for some time now, but your blog REALLY inspired me! I want to do a 3 month solo trip in Thailand from July 1st 2018-August 31st 2018 and I’m gathering all the information I can. So far the only thing I’m a little confused on is how the visas work. If I want to stay for more than 30 days (90 days) do I need a special visa? Or would my best option be to do something similar to what you have done and do one month in Thailand one month in Cambodia and one month in Laos to avoid having to obtain a special visa other than the 30 days. If I do that should I apply for all 3 visas before my trip? Thank you for your help! I hope my questions make sense, and if you’re unsure that’s no problem!!

02/01/2017 at 1:27 am

Hey Courtney! Sounds like an awesome trip. I’d suggest doing Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand simply because they’re all great and that’s a good amount of time to split. I got my 60-day Thai visa at the embassy in the capital of Laos and it took two days. You can probably obtain it at home before you go as well. The rules change often over there. Cambodia and Laos you can get on arrival.

02/01/2017 at 1:31 am

Thank you for the advice!

hannah masten says

03/20/2017 at 11:34 pm

Hi! Just getting into the idea of traveling to Thailand and came across this blog! I have a few questions! 1. Did you just save for this trip or did you find other form of work while there? (Trade work?) 2. What is your recommended place to fly into? (Cheapest, most reliable; I’m coming from the US) 3. Would you recommend renting a moped or just relying on public transportation? 4. I’ve read that peak weather is from nov-may in northern Thailand, what time would you recommend in regards to travel expenses/holidays?

Sorry for so many questions, thanks for this post!!

03/23/2017 at 1:09 am

Hey! 1. I saved up but you could probably find work online or in hostels 2. Bangkok 3. Both! 4. I wouldn’t go north during the burning season which is from Feb-May

03/27/2017 at 11:43 pm

Hi, Im planning to travel to bangkok phi phi and chaing mai sept to november with 3 adults and my toddler son. Can i ask, do you know whats the cheapest accomodation thats family friendly (no backpackers) thanks so much. Also, whats ur favourite place in thailand to visit? Ps love your blog!

03/28/2017 at 2:32 am

You can find hotels as well for as low as $20 per night that are pretty nice. Check Agoda.

04/21/2017 at 11:07 am

Hello We (husband+wife) are planning in June for thailand., Bangkok, pataya Traveling 1st time to abroad from india. Plz suggest places to visit . If possible plz guide itinerary.

04/21/2017 at 7:09 pm

Avoid Pattaya!

05/17/2017 at 6:27 am

I’m planning to go in three countries this end of month,which is Vietnam,Cambodia and Thailand,how much do you think the budget I need? And what currency of money do I use to those countries?thanks in advance.

05/21/2017 at 8:34 pm

Hopefully this helps: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/southeast-asia-on-a-budget/

05/18/2017 at 4:06 am

5 Visits to Thailand 1972 to 2012, next yr. Get there b4 it turns into another Japan. The culture and landscape are changing fast! See Essan in Central East for most old school cultural experiences. Close to Laos. Visit some Buddhist temples in the mountains for some real fun and beauty, We always eat street food and never get sick. You can stay at resorts for under 60$US a day or Chinese Hotels with a fan for 70$US, a week. All clubs and bars will blow your budget. If you drink with locals at street food places it is cheaper if you want to chat with nice locals who want to learn English. Walk a lot and you will be surprised at how much cultural nuance you can discover around every corner. We love it there. Next year we are going to Laos, Cambodia, and hopefully Vietnam. Stay away from Pataya and the area’s around the Airports in Bangkok. Too sleazy and easy to get scammed. Check out the new malls in Korat. Not to buy anything. They are just fun and amazing for a town that wasnt even on the map 50 yrs ago. If you’re back packing it use the bus for town to town travel. Fun way to meet locals. Be prepared. They will want to touch you. Women…do not touch the men/boys in monk robes. It is extremely hot so dress accordingly. I get up early and walk around, sleep in the heat of the day, and party/eat at night. For long stays I recommend the north country. Cheap rates by the month and a lot cooler. Have fun!

Jessica says

05/18/2017 at 7:34 pm

Thanks for sharing! I liked your post, thanks for the info, thanks for talking -or writting- about costs, that is not very usual! but I am pretty grateful and surprised to see that you can explore Thailand with any budget if you do the proper investigation before

Veronica Russo says

07/11/2017 at 10:21 am

Hi, currently looking to travel in august and on a college budget. What was the average flight expense, knowing its going to be the most expensive part of the trip. Any tips on finding cheaper flights?

Raymond Carroll says

07/26/2017 at 4:51 am

Great info on budget traveling in Thailand. I’m married to a Thai and my wife gets good deals for us because she is Thai – I do sometimes find myself spending Baht like monopoly money though, until the wife steps in and curtails it lol. Nice post – thanks for sharing!

Kristina Mendoza says

07/28/2017 at 7:52 pm

Interesting blog! I also went through the other posts and I really had fun reading! Thanks for sharing your travels Kristin! It really inspires me and making me enjoy like once in a while too, instead of just staying at home and spending most of my time working. Looking forward for your future travel guides!

Nichol says

12/14/2018 at 12:21 pm

Helpful post! A perfect guide for those who are travelling for the first time.

Thank you very much 🙂

Andrew Comte says

03/03/2019 at 11:03 am

Excellent breakdown of the costs. I stick to the street food too…well, and 7-11. Then I do the apartments in Bangkok with air. Don’t do the beer, but coffee is a must. Great read!

03/03/2019 at 11:07 am

Agreed on the coffee. I’ll spend money for coffee!

Kelsey says

04/04/2019 at 5:37 pm

Hey Kristin, do you know the name of the place in your photo with the infinity pool and beach view? Thank you 🙂

04/05/2019 at 8:38 am

Paradise Koh Yao: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/koh-yao-noi/

Antanas says

11/24/2019 at 8:13 am

hy, we have 2 months for Thailand and Indonesia, how you would recommend to share the time between those two?

i am not big fan of big crowded noisy cities, and more nature person.

11/25/2019 at 9:53 am

They’re both wonderful, though Indonesia is much bigger. You could split time or do 3 weeks in Thailand and 5 in Indo.

Pat Mac DOnald says

12/29/2019 at 7:38 pm

Thank you for the in-depth honest to the point well written travel report

Your in-depth research is refreshing and valuable to every budget conscious traveller

Safe and Happy travels Pat

• Travel Planning Guide

Thailand Travel Budget - Visit Thailand on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Thailand Costs

• Is Thailand Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Thailand cost?
• Thailand On-Your-Own Itineraries
• Northern Thailand
• Southern Thailand
• Thailand Hotel Prices
• Thailand Cities: Hotel Prices by City
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Thailand
• Best Luxury Hotels in Thailand
• Best Party Hotels in Thailand
• Best Beach Hotels in Thailand
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Thailand
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Thailand
• Best Cheap Hotels in Thailand
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Thailand
• Best Hotels for One Night in Thailand
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Thailand
• Best Hotels for One Week in Thailand
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Thailand
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Thailand
• Best Business Hotels in Thailand
• Where Do Backpackers Go in Thailand? A Review of Hostels and Guesthouses.
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• Thailand Activities
• Thailand Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand
• The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand
• The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand
• The Best Historical Tours in Thailand
• The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand
• The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand
• The Best 3-Day Tours in Thailand
• The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand
• The Best 3-Week Tours in Thailand
• The Best Extended Trip Tours in Thailand, One Month or Longer
• The Best River Cruises in Thailand
• The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand
• Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Thailand
• The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand
• The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand
• The Best Eco Tours in Thailand
• The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Thailand
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand
• The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand
• The Best Music Tours in Thailand
• The Tours for Animal Lovers in Thailand
• The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand
• The Best Safaris in Thailand
• The Best Budget Safaris in Thailand
• The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand
• The Best Religious Tours in Thailand
• The Best Yoga Tours and Retreats in Thailand
• The Best Honeymoon Tours in Thailand
• The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand
• The Best Luxury Tours to Thailand
• The Best Budget Tours to Thailand
• The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand
• The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand
• The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand
• Koh Phi Phi
• Koh Pha Ngan
• How much does it cost to travel to Thailand? (Average Daily Cost)
• Thailand trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Thailand?

Is thailand expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to Thailand?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Thailand?

You should plan to spend around $81 (฿2,979) per day on your vacation in Thailand. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $17 (฿611) on meals
• $12 (฿442) on local transportation
• $70 (฿2,560) on hotels

A one week trip to Thailand for two people costs, on average, $1,138 (฿41,704) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 81 ฿ 2,979
• One Week Per person $ 569 ฿ 20,852
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,138 ฿ 41,704
• One Month Per person $ 2,438 ฿ 89,366
• One Week For a couple $ 1,138 ฿ 41,704
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 2,275 ฿ 83,408
• One Month For a couple $ 4,875 ฿ 178,732

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Thailand cost?

A one week trip to Thailand usually costs around $569 (฿20,852) for one person and $1,138 (฿41,704) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Thailand on average costs around $1,138 (฿41,704) for one person and $2,275 (฿83,408) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Thailand will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Thailand on average costs around $2,438 (฿89,366) for one person and $4,875 (฿178,732) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Thailand is $171 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Backpacking Thailand (21 days) 21 Days - 9 Destinations $ 1,711
• Discovery Thailand The Golden Chersonese 15 Days - 14 Destinations $ 3,700

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Thailand is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability . If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Asia, Thailand is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Malaysia or Bhutan.

For more details, see Is Thailand Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Thailand?

The average Thailand trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Thailand travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Thailand

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Thailand is $35 (฿1,280). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Thailand is $70 (฿2,560). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 35 ฿ 1,280
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 70 ฿ 2,560

Hotel Prices in Thailand

Looking for a hotel in Thailand? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Thailand based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $33. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Phurapee Pakchong Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 110
• Chinoiserie Collection Resort & Spa Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 119

Local Transportation Budget in Thailand

The cost of a taxi ride in Thailand is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $12 (฿442) per person, per day, on local transportation in Thailand.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 12 ฿ 442

Recommended Services

• Khao Lak Transfer - Airport to Hotels Transfers - Taxi Services Viator $ 80
• Private Van: Phuket Airport Transfers Viator $ 37

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Trains to airport ฿ 160
• Bus to White Temple ฿ 40
• River Ferry Crossing ฿ 20
• Minibus- Airport to Chaweng ฿ 120
• Taxi- Na Thon Pier to Lamai Beach ฿ 420
• Airport Taxi ฿ 440
• Gas for Scooter ฿ 110
• Longboat Taxi from Town ฿ 200

Food Budget in Thailand

While meal prices in Thailand can vary, the average cost of food in Thailand is $17 (฿611) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Thailand should cost around $6.66 (฿244) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Thailand is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 17 ฿ 611

Recommended

• Benny's Home Cooking Chiang Mai Viator $ 44
• Riverside Thai Cooking Half Day Class Viator $ 57

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch for 2 ฿ 742
• Airport Lunch for 2 ฿ 550
• Breakfast for 2 ฿ 350
• Ice Cream ฿ 30
• Lunch for 2 ฿ 140
• Breakfast for 2 ฿ 140
• Casual Lunch (for Two) ฿ 215
• Pancake ฿ 70

Entertainment Budget in Thailand

Entertainment and activities in Thailand typically cost an average of $18 (฿673) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 18 ฿ 673

Recommended Activities

• Foods experience at Railway & Floating Market Viator $ 72
• From Bangkok : Kanchanaburi Tour with Floating market Visit Viator $ 166

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Siriraj Museum (2) ฿ 400
• Wat Pho entrance ticket ฿ 100
• Fish Pedicure ฿ 150
• Kayak and Snorkel (2) ฿ 100
• Wat Entrance ฿ 50
• Temple Entrances (2) ฿ 200
• Club Cover Charge ฿ 375
• Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two) ฿ 2,400

Tips and Handouts Budget in Thailand

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Thailand is $3.67 (฿135) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Thailand is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 3.67 ฿ 135

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Thailand

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Thailand is $36 (฿1,338), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 36 ฿ 1,338

Alcohol Budget in Thailand

The average person spends about $8.48 (฿311) on alcoholic beverages in Thailand per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 8.48 ฿ 311
• Railay Pub Crawl Viator $ 14
• Big Buddha & The Distillery Phuket Viator $ 97

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in Thailand, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Drinks at Irish Pub (for Two) ฿ 260
• Cocktails (for Two) ฿ 300
• Beer ฿ 90
• Beer ฿ 65
• Bottle of Wine ฿ 370
• Beer (2) ฿ 140
• Banana Daiquiri ฿ 200
• Mojito Bucket ฿ 500

Water Budget in Thailand

On average, people spend $1.34 (฿49) on bottled water in Thailand per day. The public water in Thailand is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.34 ฿ 49

Related Articles

Thailand on a budget.

At A Glance

• Because Thailand is one of the more touristy countries in Southeast Asia, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the crowds and the hassle. If you find yourself getting a little frustrated, head to the northern parts of the country where the atmosphere is more relaxed and mellow. The highlands are beautiful and you can have a wonderful cultural experience at a far more affordable price.
• The food in Thailand is absolutely delicious. It is generally served quite spicy and can overwhelm many people's palates. If you're hoping for a milder variety of a specific dish, ask for it with "no spice." While many locals don't understand the word mild, they do understand "no spice." They usually abide by these instructions, but not always.
• If you're really enjoying the food in Thailand then consider taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai. These classes often last a full day and they are loads of fun. The teachers keep the classes light and humorous and the food provides a full days worth of meals. You can often arrange classes through your hotel or a local travel agency.
• Many people use VIP buses to travel around Thailand. These buses are decent in quality but the connections are often poorly thought out and inconvenient. Once a booking agent has your money you are really at their mercy. Consider finding the local bus station and traveling with public buses which are far cheaper and often times more convenient.
• There are many popular beaches in Thailand with some of the most famous being on Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui. If you're looking for a more remote and peaceful experience look into any of the national parks around the country. Some have cabins available where you can camp and others have tents available for rent.

Top Tourist Attractions

Popular foods, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Backpacking Thailand On A Budget: What Travelers Should Know

Find out everything you need to know for backpacking Thailand on a budget . Learn about the best travel tips, money, important information, top places to see, and more in this guide on the ultimate backpacking destination, Thailand!

Thailand is a must-visit destination and a highlight for many people traveling Southeast Asia. From palm tree-covered beaches, lush jungles, and incredible cities, backpacking Thailand will have you in awe of all the varied landscapes.

It is also a popular destination with young travelers due to being located on the famous banana pancake trail. You’ll find plenty of like-minded people backpacking Thailand on a budget.

Think $3.00 Pad Thais, $5.00 massages, and $1.00 beers. For any budget traveler, this is absolute paradise. Also, Any mistakes you make won’t cost you too much money and any scams won’t financially ruin your trip (speaking from experience).

There is an assortment of places you will want to visit, which I will get into later. Though you’ll find most backpackers generally spend around 1 month in Thailand. This gives you enough time to explore the country relatively in-depth and check out all the top spots. It is a big place so you’ll need to either splash out on a couple of flights or take a few overnight trains.

Though, before we get into all the details of the best places to see in Thailand, let’s start with the basics. I will cover for you everything you will never need to know about backpacking Thailand. From money matters, visas, when to go, accommodation, getting around and so much more before finally getting into where exactly you should go and do during your adventure traveling Thailand on a budget.

Backpacking Thailand On A Budget: All You Need To Know

What is the currency in thailand, travel budget for backpacking thailand, entry requirements for backpacking thailand, best time to travel thailand, sleeping in thailand on a budget, getting around thailand on a budget, food & drink in thailand, internet access in thailand, buying a sim card in thailand.

• Best Places To Visit While Backpacking Thailand On A Budget

The local currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht. Check online exchange rates.

I actually kept track of all my costs to travel Thailand on my first trip. This includes transportation, food, accommodation, activities, and even some souvenir shopping. I tracked all my expenses to make sure I kept on budget and it has also allowed me to hold onto that information to share with you.

In total, I ended up spending $23.60 per day. This was done by staying in the cheapest rooms, taking overnight buses, and only doing a few tours. I had actually budgeted to spend $25.00 per day, so came in just slightly below this.

The largest portion of my budget actually went towards food. This is because accommodation is so cheap, spending $13.00 or so each day on food eventually adds up. I could’ve kept this cost lower by eating street food. Though I am a bit of a fussy vegetarian so I preferred to eat at locally run restaurants where it would cost me $4.00 or so for a meal and a drink.

Your budget will go a lot further than the North compared to the South. The most expensive place I visited was Koh Phi Phi and looking back I definitely should’ve spent less time there. Especially considering I didn’t actually like it there.

Depending on your passport country of origin, you may not need a visa to enter Thailand. There is a list of countries that can enter visa-free for a period of 30 days. Some of these countries include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and The United States.

Though you will be required to show proof of departure when arriving at the airport. This is because many people travel to Thailand for work and end up overstaying. Alternatively, in the past, it has been a popular place to do visa runs to neighboring countries and then your 30 days stay restarts. Though in recent years these rules have changed where you can only stay 90 days in any 6 month period.

If you do not have proof of onward travel many travelers use such services as Onward Ticket . The company books a legitimate ticket in your name and cancels it after a certain period. You just need to pay a small service charge. This provides you with an actual ticket for proof of onward travel. I have used them before, but remember you still need to leave the country within 30 days of arriving. Though this is the perfect amount of time for my 3 week Thailand itinerary !

The high season in Thailand is between November and March when the weather is at its best throughout the country. This is also known as the dry season, with minimal rain and clear days. During this period, there is an influx of tourists as people come to visit and as a result, accommodation prices increase. Just be aware that the start of the year is also the burning season which brings poor air quality in certain areas of Thailand, so make sure to research Northern Areas such as when to go to Chiang Mai before booking.

I have traveled to Thailand during the months of February, April, and May. February falls in the high season, though April and May fall in the shoulder season. During this time the sunny days had a short period of thundering storms with pouring rain. Though these often occurred in the late afternoons or evenings. Most of the time we had already settled in for the night.

The good thing about Thailand is that when the weather is bad on one side of the country, for example, Koh Lanta, you can always travel to the other side and it will be better, e.g. Koh Phangan.

The North of the country is best to visit between November and May. Whilst June to October is the monsoon season up there and you will want to avoid traveling there then.

The East Coast Islands are best avoided from September through to December as this is when they get hit with heavy rainfall. Though the rest of the year they are perfectly fine to visit. Alternatively, the West Coast Islands should be avoided from April and October. Also, think twice before taking ferries in Thailand during the wet season as there have been numerous incidents throughout the years.

You can find an assortment of accommodation in Thailand. Though be aware that the further South you travel the more expensive the options are. Though cities themselves generally provide a good mix of hostels, guesthouses, and hotels for all budgets. No matter where you are in the country and what your budget is, it is very likely you will be able to find a suitable option.

Long gone are the days backpacking Thailand staying in cute little bamboo huts, well nearly. These used to cover the islands, but nowadays they are a lot harder to come by. Nevertheless, if you look hard enough to should be able to find a couple on each island. Though whether they will be affordable or a pricey Instagram hotspot is another question.

In Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket you will be able to find an assortment of relatively affordable luxury hotels. These three towns are quite well trodden on the backpacking Thailand scene and as such cater for all types of travelers. Almost all towns in Thailand now offer at least one hostel for those travelers on a budget. The only place I haven’t found one is in Chiang Khong , though instead, I booked a private room in a resort for $3.50.

Overall, if you are a dorm bed person I would budget about $8.00 per day to spend on accommodation. If you are like me and enjoy simple guesthouses, and also have someone else to split private room costs with, I would budget $12.00 per day just to be safe.

In my opinion, Thailand is super easy to travel around on a budget. Buses and minivans cater to tourists and are able to take you around the country with ease.

Planes: If you are on a budget then you probably won’t be taking any flights within Thailand. Though if you can afford to domestic flights connects Bangkok with the major hotspots in the country. There are quite a few airlines operating domestically in Thailand which creates competition to keep prices relatively low. There are a couple of long trips which you may consider a flight, for example, Bangkok to Chiang Mai .

Mini Van: Minivans are a popular way to travel when backpacking Thailand. They will pick you up from your guesthouse or hostels and drop you off at the bus station in the city you are traveling to. The prices are only a little bit more when compared to a bus. Though the journey will be a lot faster. The one downside is they will full up the minivans to the brims, full seats plus bags for each traveler does not make for a comfortable journey.

Bus: A slightly cheaper option than a minivan, the bus is a good choice for those who aren’t in a rush and are traveling Thailand on a budget. From experience, I generally find buses in Thailand of pretty decent quality. Most have comfortable seats and working air conditioning. They will also stop every few hours for a bathroom break. Though this isn’t the most convenient when you’re on an overnight trip and just want to sleep.

Train : Taking a train is a great way to travel around Thailand. In terms of pricing, it is generally somewhere in between a bus ticket and a flight. Though the plus side of the train is it makes for a super comfortable journey. This is especially true on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai where you get an actual bed to sleep in compared with a seat. The train can take you as far north as Chiang Mai and as far south as Hat Yai.

Boat: If you are wanting to head to the islands in Thailand, which you likely are then you will need to take some sort of boat. I personally like taking Lomprayah to the islands on the east coast such as Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui. They have a great reputation and they are always on time. Though on the west side of Thailand I have only booked random ferries through my guesthouses so don’t particularly have a preference. Just be aware that ferries in Thailand can be quite pricey, which you can check out in my Thailand Travel Budget post.

Motorbike: A less popular, but still doable option is to motorbike around Thailand. As you will likely be traveling North to South or vice versa then renting will not be an option. This means you will need to purchase one. It may not be as popular as doing it in Vietnam , though I can tell you it is still possible and people definitely give it a go.

In Thailand, you can easily find a wide assortment of food. This is even more true in tourist hot spots such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai , and Phuket. From vegan, Italian, Indian and Vietnamese. There is a variety of cuisines here for foodies.

Though wherever you find yourself in the country good food will not be far behind. I am a fussy eater and a vegetarian, luckily I had no issues whatsoever finding something suitable in Thailand. My personal go-to options were small locally run restaurants offering various stir fry tofu dishes.

In terms of local dishes, Thailand is a foodie paradise. From Pad Thai, Red Thai Curry, Khao Soi and so many more. You can easily find yourself exploring Thailand with your mouth.

At local eateries, you can plan to spend between $2.50-$3.50 per meal. Though, eating out at Western-style upscale restaurants you can easily double this amount.

Internet access is pretty decent in Thailand. As a result, it is a pretty popular place with digital nomads as they can easily work remotely. We never really had any issues with an internet connection, even when we were staying on islands. The price of the internet should be included in your accommodation as well.

The easiest way to buy a sim card in Thailand is definitely at the airport when you arrive. The people at these booths are trained to help foreigners and know what plan will be best for you.

This is exactly what I have done multiple times in the past, generally getting a plan with unlimited data for a certain period e.g. 2 weeks or 1 month. The only downside of doing it like this is that it is a lot more pricey than if you were to simply go buy a sim card from 7/11 and set it up for yourself. You are basically just paying for the convenience.

I found the 4G reception pretty good in Thailand, giving me plenty of use. The only times I struggled were on the overnight train journey to Chiang Mai where we obviously went through some patchy areas. It also works for a few hours on the slow boat to Luang Prabang if you are doing that journey (whereas the Laos sim cards will not work).

Top Places To Visit While Backpacking Thailand On A Budget

Welcome to one of my favorite spots in Thailand, Chiang Mai. This digital nomad hub is an absolute must-visit, even if you are only in Chiang Mai for 3 days . From elephant sanctuaries , cooking classes , night markets , and more! This is such an incredible city and is one I always recommend to travelers in Thailand. It is also a foodie hot spot with an abundance of affordable and delicious meals around every corner.

This ex capital of Thailand has a super interesting past and is actually a UNESCO Heritage Site. Ayutthaya is well worth a visit whether you wish to stay overnight or make it a day trip from Bangkok . Hire a bicycle or go on a tour and explore the numerous temples which call this place home.

Welcome to the capital of Thailand, Bangkok. It is likely you will either start or finish your backpacking Thailand journey in this city thanks to its great transport links to other countries. Though it is well worth spending at least 48 hours in Bangkok to experience the best of what it has to offer. Check out the impressive Grand Palace and some of the incredible nearby temples. Book a stay in a hostel on Khao San Road and join along in one of the best party places!

Koh Tao is also known as a divers paradise as this is one of the cheapest places to get PADI certified. Apart from that, there are some awesome nearby islands, beautiful beaches, and picturesque viewpoints. I even did a snorkeling tour in Koh Tao , though I had mixed feelings about it.

Koh Phangan

This place is so much more than the full moon party! Koh Phangan has some of the best beaches in Thailand. If you can definitely hire a motorbike and explore the island at your own pace. From waterfalls, viewpoints, and white sandy beaches, it is easy to spend weeks here!

I read in so many travel blogs to go to Krabi, don’t, go to Ao Nang instead. Here you will find a couple of gorgeous beaches, some chilled-out restaurants, and an assortment of accommodation options. It’s a lot more relaxed here than nearby in Krabi town. You can also easily take a day trip to Railay Beach to check out one of the most perfect places in all of Thailand (definitely spend a night there if you can afford it).

Koh Lanta is another perfect chilled-out place. I could honestly stay an extended period there if I hadn’t already planned further travel. It’s the perfect place to explore by motorbike. Get lost in the many viewpoints looking out to the sea, hang out with dogs at Lanta Animal Welfare and watch the sunset turn the sky all shades of red.

Koh Phi Phi

If you are looking for a bit of a party and to let loose during your time backpacking Thailand on a budget then you can’t do better than Koh Phi Phi . Apart from a party, there are also numerous day tours to nearby beaches, islands, and caves. Hike your way up the hillside to one of the many Phi Phi viewpoints .

Now I didn’t particularly fall in love with Koh Phi Phi, though that doesn’t mean you will have the same experience. If I started my trip in Phuket where I didn’t know better, then sure I may have had a good time. Though I visited as the last destination in my trip, having come from the relaxed pace of Koh Lanta. I found Phuket dirty, grimy, and scammy. Just keep in mind that is simply my opinion and I would go back as I honestly think it has more to offer.

Work For Accommodation In Thailand

Give working for your accommodation a try. Many hostels in Thailand offer those who are staying a free place to rest your head. Though in exchange you must be willing to help with cleaning, front desk, and other general duties.

Another option is WWOOFing or Helpx.

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….

• TRAVEL KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO
• VISITING THE WHITE TEMPLE IN CHIANG RAI
• COST TO TRAVEL THAILAND
• PHUKET TO KOH LANTA TRANSPORT GUIDE
• KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINTS
• ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
• A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
• BACKPACKING KOH LANTA
• VEGETARIAN COOKING CLASS IN CHIANG MAI
• KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI TRANSPORT GUIDE

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.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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How do you travel thailand on a budget in 2024 .

Table of Contents

If you are travelling Thailand on a budget here is your ultimate guide. Yes, like the rest of the world Thailand is getting more expensive in 2024. BUT it is still possible to travel this beautiful country on a budget – especially if you’re savvy and do your research (read this guide!)

We have traveled Thailand extensively including supreme budget travel. It is possible to travel around Thailand on less than £20 per day (this is around 1,000 baht). We are going to give you a step-by-step guide to how to travel Thailand as cheaply as possible.

Although Thailand is a very cheap country, things are getting a lot more expensive in Thailand. It is becoming increasingly difficult to know how and where to find the cheapest accommodation, food and transport in Thailand. So we are here to help bring you our experience and knowledge. Oh yeah and don’t miss our full guide on the cheapest countries in southeast Asia .

Before we had kids we used to travel on a shoe thread. We would search for the absolute cheapest food, accommodation, transport and experiences. Because, the more money you save on these things, the longer and further you can travel. ALSO don’t miss our FULL BREAKDOWN – how much does a budget trip to Thailand cost ?

A little disclaimer : We are not trying to give you a budget for your overall trip to Thailand. Always remember that you will need to pay for things like travel insurance, flights and any other costs that go with getting to Thailand. In this article, we are sharing our experience and top tips for travelling around Thailand on a budget. 

Don’t miss our EPIC Thailand itineraries

Heading North? Itinerary for the beautiful Pai (north Thailand adventures)

Looking for an amazing Chiang Mai guide? Itinerary for the epic Chiang Mai (adventure, nature and fun)

Taking a holiday in Phuket? Itinerary for Phuket (a great spot for family, fun and sun)

Example daily budget for a savvy traveler in Thailand (one person)

If you’re travelling Thailand on a budget it should be possible to travel for under $20 per day on average. Break down for a traveler who spends an average of 700 baht ($20) per day in Thailand (not including activity costs which can vary massively): 

Food: 250 baht (eating cheap street food and a few snacks)

Drinks: 50 baht (water and a fruit shake)

Accommodation: 250 baht per night (simple single fan room or dorm bed)

Transport: 150 baht (bike rental including fuel)

These are realistic costs for a budget traveler in Thailand. A very savvy traveler may be able to do it even more cheaply (finding cheaper accommodation and eating less or finding cheaper food).

Is it ok to barter in Thailand?

Yes, it is acceptable and normal to barter in Thailand. Actually bartering in Thailand is a lot of fun and allows you to get fair prices for products and services. In some cases bartering is essential (assuming you don’t want to pay extortionate prices!) Always aim for a fair price, keep it positive and friendly. Here are the things you can normally barter for in Thailand: You can barter for taxis and tuk tuk (actually taxi apps are a fair price so no need to barter, and taxis on the meter in Thailand are also very cheap). We recommend that you barter in markets for products. You can also barter for accommodation in Thailand – especially if you’re willing to arrive in person and barter.

TOP TIP: It is not normal to barter for food in Thailand. Food is very cheap anyway and prices seem to be standard. A few tourist markets and activities may also standardise prices and be unwilling to barter.

Don’t miss these SUPER CLEVER Bartering tips for Asia

What are the cheapest parts of Thailand?

If you’re planning to travel Thailand on a budget consider where you plan to visit. In general the north of Thailand is cheaper than the south. Chaing Mai and the surrounding areas is a very cheap part of Thailand. Larger cities like Bangkok tend to be more expensive for food and accommodation. Some of the more remote islands can also be more expensive for food and accommodation. 

How do you find the cheapest food in Thailand? 

One of the best ways to keep your budget as low as possible in Thailand is to find the cheapest food you can. The great thing about food in Thailand. It is fresh, affordable, healthy and tasty. What’s more, food is very easy to find in Thailand. Thailand has an amazing street food culture. Street food is the cheapest food you will find in Thailand. So if you wish to save money on food in Thailand it is very important to avoid western food places and more expensive restaurants.

Instead we recommend going for street food. Also, you can find some pretty cheap, healthy and tasty food from convenience stores such as 7-Eleven. Here are a few examples of the cheapest dishes that you can find in Thailand. In 7-Eleven stores you can find small boxes or packets of Sushi.

For example, you can find little rice triangles with seaweed, called onigiri, for around 30 Baht (this is £0.60 or $0.80). Depending on your appetite one of these may be enough to fill you up. Pot noodles are also very cheap and readily available in Thailand. You can also find fresh fruit juices around Thailand for around 30 or 40 baht. If you are choosing to buy very cheap food, it is important to make sure you are also staying healthy. Not only is the food very cheap, you can also eat healthily in Thailand on a budget.

In terms of street food, some of the cheapest dishes you will find are things like Pad Thai. Typically you can find Pad Thai for around 50 baht (around £1 or $1.30). Mango salad and papaya salad is also very cheap, typically being found for around 50 or 60 baht. Mango and papaya salad is a fresh crunchy healthy salad with a good spicy kick. Places that sell mango salad often sell sticky rice for around 10 baht (£0.20 or $0.25). This is normally sufficient to fill you up.

Slightly more expensive dishes include Thai dishes such as green curry, which is served as a soup, Tom Yum soup is also very popular and widely available around Thailand. Dishes like this tend to cost around 80 to 100 baht (roughly £1.60 – £2 or $2.00 – £2.50), depending on where you buy them. If you are travelling Thailand on a budget we would recommend minimising the amount of seafood you eat. This can be a little bit more expensive. However, if you are travelling on the islands, you can still find barbecue fish for very good prices. For example, on Koh Phangan you can typically find a large BBQ fish for as little as 80 baht (£1.60). Night markets are a great place to eat in Thailand if you are on a budget – lots of cheap tasty and healthy food. 

If you are really travelling Thailand on a budget, we recommend considering cheap ways of sourcing water. The cheapest way to get water in Thailand is to have your own water bottle, and then use the street side water fillers to refill your water bottle. It will normally cost you around 1 baht per litre of water (so you can fill up a 5 litre bottle for as little as 5 baht which is around £0.10 or $0.13).

What is the cheapest way to do laundry in Thailand?

Remember when you’re travelling Thailand on a budget every penny counts. If you are travelling Thailand on a budget it is worth considering the cost of laundry. There are two main ways to do laundry in Thailand.

Small laundrettes

Firstly, there are launderettes all around Thailand. These are places where people will take your clothes and wash dry and return them and they normally charge based on the weight of clothes. At the laundry places, they will normally wash dry and fold your clothes and then return them within 24hrs. Because they are charged by weight, we recommend making sure that dirty clothes are not also wet as they may be weighed wet and it will cost a lot of money. Small streetside launderettes normally charge around 40 baht per kilo (roughly £0.80 or $1). In some places they may charge 50 baht per kilo (roughly £1 or $1.30). 

Self service laundry

Secondly, all around Thailand you can find self-service washing machines at the side of the street. It is surprising how common these are, and sometimes they will have dryers available too. If you use a self service washing machine you need to make sure you have the correct change (normally 10 baht coins) and you also need to make sure you bring your own washing powder. It is possible to buy small bags of washing powder from convenience stores like 7-Eleven for around 20-30 baht (around £0.40 – £0.60 or $0.50 – $0.80). Self-service washing machines normally cost around 30 Baht for a single wash cycle (this is around £0.60 or $0.80). It normally costs around 50 baht (or £1 or $1.30) for around 40 minutes of drying.

The cheapest way to do Laundry depends on the weight

So what is the cheapest way to do laundry in Thailand? It really depends how much laundry you have to do and where you are. In general, if you have smaller loads of laundry which weigh less, it will probably be cheaper and a lot more convenient just to drop your laundry off at a laundrette. These are very common in tourist towns and cities. The only thing we would advise you to avoid, is doing your laundry at your hotel or resort. They will sometimes charge per piece of laundry and the costs can be a lot higher than doing laundry at small laundrettes on the street. So if you are a solo traveller or you do not have too much laundry to do it will probably be cheapest to use a street side laundrette.

On the other hand, if you have lots of laundry, and particularly if you are travelling as a family or group you may find that using a self service washing machine is cheaper. Just remember to consider your drying options because many of the self service washing machines do not have dryers available, so you need to consider whether you have drying space available at your hotel or guest house. One more thing, remember if you do self-service laundry but you need to return to the machine to either pick it up or put it in the dryer. This is clearly less convenient than dropping your laundry off with a laundrette.

How do you find the cheapest accommodation in Thailand?

Firstly, you need to consider the type of accommodation you are searching for. In Thailand there are many resorts and hotels but these are very expensive and not a great option if you are travelling Thailand on a budget. If you are travelling Thailand on a budget we recommend that you either look for a hostel or a guest house.

Remember, if you’re travelling Thailand on the budget, accommodation is likely to be one of your biggest costs. Therefore, keeping accommodation prices as low as possible is essential to travelling Thailand on a budget. 

So how do you find the cheapest guest houses and hostels in Thailand? The absolute best way to find the cheapest accommodation in Thailand is to be willing to barter and hunt around when you arrive in a place. Generally speaking, if you try to find places online in advance it will be more expensive. Most places around Thailand have cheap accommodation options available, however, it is worth being aware budget accommodation in Thailand is not as comfortable, clean or nice as more expensive hotel options.

In most locations around Thailand it is possible to find rooms for as little as 200 baht per night for a single room (roughly £4 or $5). Double or twin rooms tend to start at around 300 baht per night (£6 or $8). If you are travelling as a group or family we recommend looking for twin rooms and asking if it is ok to accommodate more guests in the room. Rooms with air conditioning typically start at around 400 baht per night in most locations (roughly £8 or $10)

Budget rooms in Thailand tend to be smaller, not as well located, less comfortable and they may be fan rooms rather than air-conditioned rooms. Budget rooms in Thailand may also be less clean and may not have natural light. The level of service in budget accommodation in Thailand is also likely to be much lower. For example, they may only clean your room and change the bedding every few days or maybe even just once a week. If you’re traveling Thailand on a budget you do need to be willing to make some compromises.

If you are looking for slightly nicer accommodation but you still wish to travel Thailand on a budget, a great way to find amazing deals on rooms is to look up places which already offer a good deal on booking.com or Agoda and then contact the property directly. It is normally easy to find pages on Facebook for hotels and guest houses in Thailand. Just drop them a direct message stating when you wish to visit and asking what their best deal is for the room that you would like to stay in. Very often if places have rooms available and you contact them directly in advance they will be willing to do cheaper offers for you. The main disadvantage of reserving rooms in this way is that you do not have the same security or reassurance compared to booking online and in advance. Furthermore, if you make an informal arrangement with a property you will not be able to review the property on booking.com or Agoda if you have not booked through them in the first place. Hotels sometimes recognise this, and may not give you the same level of service. 

Top tip: Hotels and guest houses in Thailand normally advertise rooms online with pretty and enticing pictures. Sometimes when you book a particular room, based on the picture, they will actually place you in a similar but different room that is not as good as the room in the picture. It is always worth contacting the property directly, in advance, to make sure that they are reserving the correct room for you. This is true whether you book in advance online or whether you book directly with the hotel.

If you are travelling Thailand on a budget and want the reassurance of advanced bookings, keep an eye on Agoda . They do have some amazing deals for cheap accommodation in Thailand.

How do you find the cheapest transport in Thailand?

Transport will be a big consideration if you’re hoping to travel round Thailand on a budget.

For short distance local Journeys.

The cheapest way to get around on short distance local journeys in Thailand is to rent a motorbike. So if you are travelling Thailand on a budget, we recommend renting a motorbike. Bike rental prices in Thailand normally start around 100 baht per day (around £2 or $2.50). However in more popular places especially during high season, it is often difficult to find motorbike rental for less than about 150 baht per day (around £3 or $4). This will also get you the cheapest type of bike which is normally sufficient for touring a local area in Thailand. This will normally be an automatic 125cc bike.

Be aware that most bike rental places will ask for some kind of deposit. Many places will ask you to leave a passport, we do not recommend doing this because it is important to have a passport when you are travelling around Thailand. Most places will be willing to take a cash deposit instead. In addition to the daily rental cost, you also need to consider the cost of petrol if you’re travelling Thailand on a Budget. Petrol is pretty cheap in Thailand normally costing around 30 to 40 baht per litre depending on where you are in Thailand (this is roughly £0.60 – £0.80 or $0.80 – $1.00). We were surprised how far you could travel on a motorbike in Thailand without needing to fill up with petrol so overall this is a very cheap part of your budget.

If you are travelling Thailand on a budget but you are not able to ride a motorbike, there are still other options available to you but these may be a little bit more expensive. It is likely that you will need to use a taxi at some point in your trip. If you’re travelling around local areas in Thailand by taxi, we recommend using the Bolt app for the cheapest taxi services. There is another taxi app in Thailand called Grab, however Grab is more expensive than Bolt. Most Bolt taxis will cost around 50 – 100 baht for short local journeys (£1 – £2 or $1.30 – $2.50). 

Using the Bolt app tends to be much cheaper than flagging taxis at the roadside and is also much cheaper than using tuk-tuks. In some areas around Thailand you can find small shared buses which do local journeys very cheaply. These buses are called Songthaews. For short journeys of a few kilometres in length, it is usually possible to take a Songthaew around 20-30 baht (£0.40 – £0.60 or $0.50 – $0.80). As ever, be prepared to barter for the price. Drivers will always try and charge a little bit more than they are willing to go for. Bartering can actually be a fun and friendly interaction if it is done well.

We do recommend keeping taxi use to a minimum if you are travelling Thailand on a budget. Try to be creative and consider other transport options, such as renting a bicycle or even walking from place to place (if you are looking at doing very short journeys). But remember Thailand is a tropical climate and therefore very hot during the day.

For long distance journeys around Thailand.

Example price guide for Surat Thani – Bangkok 

• Long distance bus 500 – 600 baht (roughly £10 – £12 or $13 – $15). 
• Night train 700 – 1,300 baht (roughly £14 – £26 ot $18 – $30)
• Domestic flight 4,000 baht (roughly £80 or $100)

If you’re planning to take a long distance journey around Thailand on a budget it is very important to consider your transport options. The cheapest way to get around Thailand on a budget is to take the long distance buses. This will be even cheaper if you use the local government bus stations rather than booking tourist buses. 

Long distance buses are reasonably comfortable and connect all of the major cities and towns in Thailand. However it is worth being aware that many of these buses travel through the night and you may only have a reclining seat rather than a bed. So this can be a pretty tiring way to travel. Always keep your valuables on the bus with you – holding your bag rather than leaving it under the chair. Theft is sadly quite common on Thai night buses.

Top tip. If you are taking a night bus or train in Thailand, consider the arrival time. If the bus or train arrives very early in the morning, most places will not have opened up when you arrive and you will also arrive very tired. So select a service that has a reasonable arrival time ideally after 6am. 

Another great way to do long distance journeys around Thailand on a budget is to use the trains. There is a train line in Thailand that runs right from the south of the country, from Sungai Kolokok past Surat Thani through Bangkok and as far north as Chiang Mai. There are also some trail lines running East-West across the country. 

However, trains can be a little bit more expensive than the buses, especially if you book a bed in a first class sleeper cabin. This may be one area where you don’t compromise on the budget. Remember they are very tiring journeys on a night bus and this can make your trip less enjoyable for a day or two afterwards. So if you do spend a little bit more and take a sleeper train, we would actually recommend using a first class sleeper cabin. This may surprise you in an article about how to travel Thailand on a budget, but on balance we do think it is worth taking these trains because they are still surprisingly cheap and affordable and also a lot of fun!

The advantage of taking a night train or bus, compared to travelling in the day, is that you save both time and money. Rather than wasting a day of your trip travelling, you keep your travel through the night so that you have more time to enjoy Thailand during the day. Also, by taking a night train or night bus you save the cost of one night’s accommodation – if you’re really travelling Thailand on the budget you want to save every penny you can!

The cheapest way to book train tickets in Thailand is directly at the train station. During busy periods it is worth doing this a few days in advance if possible. If you book through a tour agent in town, you are likely to end up paying a small commission for tickets normally between 50 and 100 baht per ticket (around £1-2 or $1.30 – $2.50). A similar rule applies to booking buses. If you buy bus tickets through a tour operator in town they are also likely to charge a similar commission. However, if you are able to get to the bus station in advance to book your ticket this will be a little cheaper.

If you are travelling Thailand on a budget, the main thing to avoid is taking internal domestic flights. Although internal flights around Thailand are relatively cheap, it will still add a lot to your budget compared to taking a train or a bus.

How do you save money on activities if you are travelling Thailand on a budget?

If you’re travelling Thailand on a budget you need to carefully consider which activities you really want to do on your trip. There’s no point travelling Thailand on a budget if you don’t enjoy the amazing activities that Thailand has to offer! So we recommend planning your activity costs, in advance of your trip, to find out if they genuinely fit within your budget. It is not worth coming all the way to Thailand to cut out activities that you really want to do. The whole point of travelling Thailand on a budget is to save money so that you can do more and enjoy your travel more. 

The great news about activities in Thailand is that they are generally pretty cheap. And even then, it is still possible to save more money if you are clever about the way that you do activities in Thailand. For example, it is always worth trying to barter even if people are not willing to negotiate the cost with you. Another way to save money on activities in Thailand is to make sure that you travel during the low season. Things tend to be cheaper and quieter during the low season. 

The most expensive activities in Thailand tend to be activities that involve boat trips. For example, trying to take a tour around a marine national park in the south of Thailand may set you back over $100. Another expensive activity in Thailand is diving. However, the cost of diving in Thailand is still cheaper than many other places around the world. Elephant Sanctuaries are also very expensive – but this may be your only chance to meet the majestic creatures – so the moral of the story. Don’t scrimp on your bucket list. 

When you are planning your itinerary of activities in Thailand, it is worth knowing that many of the best activities are completely free or very cheap. For example, treking around Thailand is normally free unless you go on a guided trek. It is also free to visit the amazing temples around Thailand (you can make a donation). Many of the incredible waterfalls around Thailand are either free or very cheap to visit. National parks may have a small fee (e.g. around 100-200 baht for an adult permit) and you normally just pay on arrival. 

In terms of booking and arranging activities in Thailand the best way to save money is to just arrange activities when you’re actually there. Do not try to book activities in advance, as you will almost always end up paying more than you would pay if you just pay for the activity when you arrive.

And finally, if you’re planning to travel Thailand on a budget definitely do not try to arrange activities or tours through travel agents in your home country before your trip. Although this may give you peace of mind it is entirely unnecessary and will cost a lot more than it cost to just do the activities in the country independently.

It is ok to barter in Thailand. If you’re travelling around Thailand on a budget we strongly recommend bartering. Bartering is a way to negotiate the price of a product. It is acceptable to barter in Thailand. However, it is important to understand the bartering needs to happen in the right context and in the right way. 

People do not normally barter for food in Thailand. So if you are not happy with the price of food, we recommend that you find somewhere cheaper. Furthermore, it is not usual to barter for transport like buses and trains in Thailand. However, you can Barter over the price of a taxi, if you flag the taxi at the side of the road. Furthermore, you can also barter for products in markets in Thailand. For example, if you go to a night market it is absolutely fine to barter for the price of clothes and gifts. In fact, in night markets it is actually quite important to barter if you want to pay a fair price. In some cases you can barter for the price of accommodation. This depends on the type of accommodation and whether they have availability. You are more likely to be successful bartering for accommodation during the low season.

Top tips for bartering in Thailand

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on top tips for Bartering in Asia

The aim of bartering is to find a fair price that you are both happy with rather than finding the lowest possible price. If you do not barter in Thailand you may end up paying substantially more than you need to. Remember, no one will sell products at a loss, so don’t pay more than you are comfortable with. Here are a few tips for bartering in Thailand:

• The best way to barter in Thailand is to build a friendly rapport with the seller. Bartering can be a very fun interaction if it is done well. We would encourage you to barter with a sense of humour and be positive and friendly with the seller. 
• Avoid insulting or belittling products in Thailand. They are not likely to lower the price if you are rude about their products. 
• Ask the price of a product that you are not interested in buying, before you ask about the price of the product you are actually interested in buying. Market sellers will often try to charge a higher price for the thing they think you are more interested in and they will assume that you are more interested in the thing that you look at first. 
• Do not try to get a price that is unrealistically low. If you try bartering too low, sellers will assume you don’t know the “real fair price” and may insist on charging a higher price.
• Have an idea of a maximum reasonable price that you are willing to pay for a product before you start bartering. Offer a price that is lower than this maximum, but not unreasonably low.
• If you are not sure how much things should cost we recommend doing a little research in advance. Ask about similar products in a few different stalls to get a feel for people’s starting prices. 
• Be willing to walk away and always aim to keep it friendly. 

Some ideas of rough prices in Thailand markets:

Things like t-shirts and sunglasses should typically cost around 50-150 baht. Products with higher build quality may cost around 300 – 500 baht (e.g. nice bags, sweat shirts and jeans). 

Remember when you are bartering in Thailand, you do not have any after sales care or consumer rights. So you should not be paying the same prices for products that you would expect to pay in a department store. Also be aware that many products on Thai markets have brand names written on them but they may not actually be legit branded products. There are a lot of knock offs in Thailand and the quality is significantly lower than the real brands. 

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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• How To Travel Thailand On...

How To Travel Thailand on a Budget

Thailand is one of the most budget-friendly countries in the world. If you’re travelling on a shoestring , you’ll want to read on to find out how to make your hard earnt pennies go that much further.

How to save money.

There are a few basic rules to saving money in the Land of Smiles , being somewhat prepared and planning in advance is likely going to set you in good stead. For example, research how you will travel from Chiang Mai to that full moon party on Koh Phangan, and book in advance to ensure you get the best and cheapest deal possible. Likewise, it’s important to plan your route so you are not backtracking or zigzagging about the country, this will not only save you money but also save you time.

Eating on a budget

Sleeping on a budget.

Cheap accommodation options are readily available in Thailand , even in Bangkok, you just need to do your research and stay in more affordable neighbourhoods. A lot of people assume that travelling on a budget means you’ll be bunked up in dorm rooms with 20 other sweaty and snoring travellers, but this is not the case in Thailand where a simple private room is still obtainable for 150 baht ($4.5 USD) per night. If you are planning to stay in one place for a while, bargain for a cheaper weekly or monthly rate.

Free and non-expensive activities

There are plenty of free and non-expensive activities to partake in. Most bars across Thailand do not charge a cover charge so you’re at liberty to turn up, order a cheap or free drink and enjoy live music. If you do enjoy the odd tipple, buy local beers like Leo or Singha or opt for going in on a SangSom bucket set. There is a reason locals are often seen drinking local rum and it’s not because of its “superior” taste.

Thailand is famous for its markets which are an ideal place to replace any clothes or travel gear at rock bottom prices. Markets are also a great place for cheap meals, the dishes available will change regionally depending on if you are in northern or southern Thailand or anywhere in between. Temples are usually free to visit and are a great place to spend a few hours.

If you are looking for exercise options join in a communal outdoor fitness class , these are not only a great way to mingle with locals they are also often free or on a donation basis. Another fantastic free exercise option is to explore Thailand’s fabulous and diverse National Parks. Go hiking in the mountainous north , explore breathtaking caves , or snorkel and dive the azure waters in the south, there are plenty of options to embrace Thailand’s natural beauty at a very low cost!

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Planning Your Travel Budget for Thailand

You’re about to go on a fantastic trip around Thailand. Great! Still, might be worried about how this will all cost you. Of course, we can’t put a definite number on it, but we can give you a good estimate. Below is an overview of all your potential travel expenses.

Step 1: Expenses before departure

Below is an overview of average expenses before leaving for Thailand:

1. Plane tickets

Price differences between return tickets to Bangkok can be huge. A general rule of thumb is: the sooner you book, the lower the price.

Other practical tips for booking a cheap flight:

• Direct flights are more expensive than flights with stops;
• Travel during low season (April to June & September and October);
• Also look for flights from nearby airports, as rates can be a lot cheaper;
• Search using comparison sites such as Skyscanner .
• Take out a good (annual) travel insurance plan before leaving. Make sure you opt for worldwide coverage and take out extra insurance for medical costs. That way, should you need to be hospitalized while in Thailand, you’ll have sufficient coverage. You can choose to take out luggage insurance and cancellation insurance as well.

2. Vaccinations

For most standard tourists there are no compulsory vaccinations for Thailand, though there are few recommended:

• Against childhood diseases: Tetanus and Diphtheria, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.
• Against food borne diseases: Typhoid and Hepatitis A.

Contact your local medical bureau for the fees.

Currently, passport holders of 57 countries are allowed to travel to Thailand without a visa, whether it’s by land or by air. This “visa-free entry” is free and is valid for a tourist stay of maximum 30 or 90 days. Click here for more information.

If your country does not qualify for a visa-free entry, or if you wish to stay for a longer period, you could apply for a single entry visa (60 days) or multiple entry visa (3x 60 days). Click here for the application fees.

4. Travel gear

• Backpack: from 100 USD
• Daypack: from 40 USD
• Travel guide: from 10 USD
• Waist bag: from 10 USD
• DEET: from 10 USD
• O.R.S.: from 8 USD
• First aid kit: from 15 USD
• Betadine: from 5 USD
• Multi-length pants: from 50 USD
• Climbing boots: from 100 USD
• Teva sandals: from 40 USD

Check out our complete packing list for you so don’t forget to take anything with you!

Step 2: Costs while traveling

Thailand: average expenses per person per day in thai baht (฿).

The chart below displays the average expenses made while traveling around Thailand in Thai baht and can be used as a reference point for planning your travel budget. As daily expenses differ, averages below are based on a 30-day round trip .

Traveling through Thailand and having a great time is possible, even on the smallest of budgets. Expect to pay ฿ 1,000 per day. You’ll be staying in clean, but basic, accommodations that you’ll share with other backpackers. Sleeping in a dorm is about 200 baht, or you can share a room with the person you’re traveling with.

Eat and drink with the locals: on the street. If you’re having dinner in a restaurant, order the cheaper Thai meals.

When traveling by local bus or by train, travel in second class. Organize your own day trips; tours and excursions can be pretty expensive. But don’t worry. This is a great and adventurous way to explore Thailand. You’ll still have some money left to have some for a meal and a drink in the evening.

Average budget

You can easily get by on a budget of ฿ 2,000 (± $ 60) per day in Thailand. You’ll stay in clean, pleasant hotel rooms, all with their own unique flavor. Expect to pay about ฿ 1,000 (± $ 30) for a nice double room. You’ll be able to enjoy your fair share of luxury, mainly in the north of Thailand. The south is a lot more expensive, especially if you want to stay on the beach.

You can easily afford to go out for food three times a day, but we would recommend everyone to have at least one street food meal a day. Street food is tasty, safe and cheap.

You can visit fun sights every day and go on a couple of excursions a week. To get around you can take the tuk-tuk, hail a taxi, or travel in a comfortable air-conditioned bus or take a domestic flight .

High budget

Travelers who love luxury can enjoy all their heart’s desires in Thailand. The most luxurious resorts in Thailand happen to still be pretty affordable. You can book yourself a nice luxurious suite with a view of the Bangkok skyline or a really nice bungalow with a tropical beach view for anywhere between $ 100 and $ 250.

Go out for food three times a day, wherever you want. From authentic high-end restaurants to international cuisine, you can have it all, wherever and whenever you want.

Hire a chauffeur, buy a first class train ticket or fly business class to make your way around the country in comfort, or go on private party excursions. Why not rent a boat for few days? The sky is the limit!

Step 3: Final advice on budgets

• Take at least 500 USD or EUR banknotes with you to Thailand and exchange it there. It’s cheaper than using an ATM.
• Bring sun cream and after sun with you. These things are a lot more expensive in Thailand.
• Eat local food; it’s cheaper and a lot better as well.
• Travel at night, by sleeper train for instance. This way, you’ll be traveling while sleeping and avoid paying for a hotel stay.
• And, last but not least, check out our blog post on 27 Tips to Save Money in Thailand .

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Budget Travel Buff

First Timer’s Guide for Thailand Solo Travel on a Budget

Are you frustrated doing your 9-5 job? Are you bored in your daily life? Do you want to refresh your mind with fresh air and scenic beauty? Get ready with your backpack and fly to Thailand, the Land of Smiles. No need to be worried about the Thailand expenses.

Here I will give you each and every detail of the solo trip in Thailand. From flight and hotel booking to Thailand itinerary, travel guides, and the detailed Thailand expenses are included in this blog.

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Overview of Thailand Solo Trip on Budget:

Best Time to Visit Thailand:

Choose the best time to travel in Thailand if you want to capture those clear blue sky Instagram pictures. Winter is the best season for a solo trip to Thailand. Try to avoid monsoon time from July to October. The best time to visit Thailand is from November to mid-April.

Thailand’s Currency:

Thai Baht is the only currency you can use during your Thailand tour. 1 Thai Baht = 0.033 USD = 0.027 Pound = 2.34 INR

Thailand Language:

Thai is the one and only official language in Thailand. Most of the people in Thailand can speak and understand English pretty well.

Thailand SIM Card:

The Internet is a must when you are traveling to a new country because from booking a local cab to the online travel guide, you will need the internet to use your best Travel Apps .

There are several SIM card providers in Thailand like SimOptions, TrueMove, China Unicom, AIS, DTAC etc. I will recommend going with TrueMove traveler-friendly package which is the cheapest option among others.

What to Wear in Thailand:

Thailand is a tropical country with a hot and humid climate. Stuff your suitcase with enough modest, lightweight, flowy clothes . You are going to visit a new country, so dress properly and show respect for their culture.

Women should cover their shoulders and knees while visiting any Thai temple. Men shouldn’t wear a sleeveless shirt or shorts at temples. Female travelers can wear bikini or swimsuit at the beaches but try to cover up while returning to your hotel from the beach. For more details, you can check What to Wear in Thailand .

Visa and Passport:

There are two options to get a visa for the Thailand solo trip.

• Visa on Arrival: If you travel in Thailand for less than 16 days you get this. Documents needed: Airline boarding pass, a valid passport for at least the next 6 months of validation, visa application form, some passport size photographs, return flight and hotel booking documents and 20000 TBH. Here is the form .
• Apply for a visa before the journey: If you travel for more than 30 days you can apply for this before your journey starts. Documents required for this visa: valid passport, passport size photos, visa application form, flight and hotel tickets, last 3 months bank statement and cover letter from main applicant.

READ ALSO: 6 Cheap Visa-Free Countries to Visit from India

How to Reach Thailand:

By Air: It is the most convenient way to travel in Thailand.   Bangkok , The capital city of Thailand has two international airports: Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Thailand is connected with most of the major cities around the world.

Maximum south Asian countries have direct flights to other international airports in Thailand. For Indian travelers, there are direct flights to Suvarnabhumi airport from Kolkata, New Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. The cheapest flight you can book  on the route from Kolkata to Bangkok.

By Train: Thailand’s international train service connects only two countries Malaysia and Singapore. Even you can travel to Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi which are interconnected by rail route. No rail route is there from India to Thailand.

By Road: Thailand is well connected by road with several countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and India. There are several daily bus services from Malaysia and Singapore. From India, you can do a road trip from India-Mayanmar-Thailand route but make sure you have an International Driving Permit and Valid Driving License.

Best Places to Visit in Thailand:

Pattaya is one of the most popular beach resorts in Thailand. Besides this, it is also famous for its nightlife. There are three parts in Pattaya: North, Central and South Pattaya. Naklua in North Pattaya and Jomtien in South Pattaya are the most visited beaches by the tourists for its quieter and relaxing experience.

How to reach Pattaya:

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya bus:  You can book your bus ticket from Bell Bus Service’s ticket counter to travel to Pattaya that costs around 120 Baht and take around 2 hours to reach Pattaya.

Don Muang Airport to Pattaya bus:  There is no direct bus from Don Muang Airport to Pattaya. First, you have to go to the first floor(level 1) of DMK Airport. There you can find an Airport bus that goes to Mo Chit Bus Station(last stoppage). It’s not a free bus and costs just 30 Baht. From Mo Chit Bus Station you will get the bus for Pattaya that leaves in every 30 minutes from 6 am to 10 pm.

Please note: There are two Mo Chit Stations: Mo Chit Train Station(BTS) and Mo Chit Bus Station. Don’t get off at Mo Chit Train Station(last stoppage), else you have to go another 2 km to get a bus for Pattaya.

• Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya distance: 122 km.
• Don Muang Airport(DMK) to Pattaya distance: 162 km.

You have to pay extra 20 Baht if your luggage weight is more than 20 kg.  

Cheap Accommodation in Pattaya:

Here are some budget accommodation in Pattaya which are really value for money

• Centre Point Hotel Pattaya
• Centara Azure Hotel Pattaya
• A-One Star Hotel
• Adelphi Pattaya Hotel

Are you searching for something different? Explore more options by entering your destination below:

You may also like the below-mentioned hostels if you are a backpacker.

• Breeze Hostel
• Happy Hostel

Best Places to visit in Pattaya:

Coral island/ koh larn island:  .

It is a little paradise near Pattaya beyond the urban chaos and hustle-bustle. There is a total of 7 islands in Koh Larn.

How to reach Coral Island: It is 7.5 km west of Pattaya beach. You can take Tuktuk to reach Bali Hai Pier from where you will get an enchanting view of Pattaya. From there take a boat that takes around 30 minutes to reach to Coral Island. You can take a speed boat(300 Baht/person) or ferry(30 Baht/person) to reach Tawaen beach which is the most visited beach in Koh Larn.

Things to do in Coral Island:  There are plenty of water adventure sports in Koh Larn island, like Parasailing behind a speed boat, Banana boat, Jetski, Sea walking, Snorkeling, Scuba diving etc. You can also rent a motorbike(200 Baht/day) and explore the islands with full freedom.

A hike will also be a great idea to explore Koh Lern.  If you want to stay at the beach then take a sunbath on the beaches or you can swim in the tropical water on all the beaches in Coral Island.

Tiger Park:

This is the most exciting and attractive place in Pattaya between all age groups. Here you can touch, hug and even take a photo with the tigers. And the best part is that you get to sleep on them (if you dare). 

Here tigers are not caged, but tiger trainers always there to make you feel safe. From big tigers to the small cub, every size of tigers is there with open chain. Go, see, feel, hear and have a lifetime thrilling experience.

Entry Fee: 550-650 Baht

Khao Pattaya View Point:

It is Pattaya’s most popular viewpoint from where you get the view of Pattaya’s crescent-shaped bay. Enjoy the great panoramic view of Pattaya city from the top of the Pratumnak hill. Click some amazing pictures from here for your Instagram gallery. The best time yo take great pictures is just before the sunset.

How to reach Khao Pattaya View Point:

It is located between South Pattaya and Jomtien beach and 3.5 km away from Central Pattaya. You can book a taxi or take a tuk-tuk to reach the viewpoint.

Timing: 7:30 am – 9:00 pm

Entry fee:  Free

Big Buddha(Wat Phra Yai):

This Buddhist temple is located on Pratumnak Hill near Jomtien beach. The majestic temple complex depicts the rich culture and artistic view of Thailand. The 18 meter tall Buddha statue is the main highlight of Wat Phra Yai temple. One can get an amazing view of this Buddhist sacred place.

How to reach Wat Phra Yai:  

Big Buddha of Pattaya is situated 2.5 km away from South Pattaya. You can book a taxi or take a tuk-tuk to reach the viewpoint of Pattaya. From there it is just 800 meters away.

Wat Phra Yai Timing:

7:00 am – 10.00 pm

Wat Phra Yai Entry Fee:  Free

Pattaya Walking Street:

Pattaya Walking Street is no doubt Thailand’s most famous nightlife destination. It will be an incredible experience to be a part of the nightlife in Pattaya Walking Street. You will be amazed by the neon lights, color, music, noise and overall ambiance.

If you visit Thailand with family then try to avoid this place after 7 pm else you and your family might get into an embarrassing situation.

How to reach Pattaya Walking Street:

Pattaya Walking Street is just 1.2 km from Central Pattaya. You can walk along the beach to reach there or take a tuk-tuk that is all the time available there.

Things to do in Pattaya Walking Street:

Live Band Performance is very popular in Pattaya Walking Street. You can enjoy the great ambiance with a live band performance and a can of beer(approx. 100 Baht).

Walking Street in Pattaya has a variety of food options and for budget travelers, there are several options in Thailand if you want to eat on a budget . From open-air food stall to well decorated western restaurants, you can choose your favorite dish or can try special seafoods.

When it comes to nightlife, Pattaya Walking Street is the best in Thailand. The street has bars, nightclubs, gogo bars, all are advertising with flashy neon lights that make the street more colorful and vibrant. You will see girls inviting you to their bars holding a placard with the rates of beer.

Pro Tips( What not to do in Pattaya Walking Street):

• Most of the bars, restaurants open by 8 pm but Pattaya Walking Street comes alive after 10 pm.
• Don’t go for a sex show. Try to avoid eye contact with the girls and the touts. People often fall into the trap just for being curious.
• Be careful with your moneybag as there are some pickpockets in Walking Street.
• Stay away from drugs as it is illegal in Thailand.
• Always stay in your sense. Don’t get carried away with the ambiance and drink responsibly to avoid any disaster on your holiday.

Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most popular island among travelers. More than 5 million tourists come to visit Phuket for its white sand beach, blue turquoise water, exotic resorts, adventure activities, relaxing Thai spa and vibrant nightlife. It is one of the most romantic places in Thailand that every couple would like to visit in their honeymoon.

How to reach Phuket:

Pattaya to Bangkok bus:  Book a bus from Pattaya to Mo chit(for DMK airport) or Suvarnabhumi airport that costs around 120 Baht.

Bangkok airport to Phuket:  Take a flight from Suvarnabhumi or DMK airport to Phuket. We booked a round trip from DMK airport to Phuket airport(HKT) 4 months before the journey and that costs around 1500 Baht/person.

There are bus services also from Bangkok to Phuket which costs around 700-800 Baht and takes 9-10 hours to reach Phuket.

Phuket airport to Patong (approx 39 km): Book a shared minivan from outside of Phuket airport that costs around 180-200 Baht and reaches to Patong within 2 hours.

Cheap Accommodation in Phuket:

Here is some budget-friendly hotel in Phuket:

• Paripas Patong Resort
• Aspery Hotel
• Lub d Phuket Patong
• The Gig Hotel

Have a look for some budget hostel:

• Bodega Phuket Party Hostel
• Bearpacker Hostel

Best Places to Visit in Phuket:

Phi phi island and maya bay:.

Your solo trip in Thailand is incomplete without Koh Phi Phi. Some travelers come to Thailand only to visit Phi Phi Island for its scenic location, turquoise water, lush greenery and adventure activities. Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island among the other six islands.

How to Reach Phi Phi island:

I will recommend booking Phi Phi island and Maya Bay day tour from Klook . They provide the best service at a reasonable price. You can book yourself the speedboat or ferry ticket to Phi Phi island that costs 1150 Baht and 310 Baht respectively. But it will be quite hectic and difficult to book all the communication from island to island.

Things to do in Phi Phi island:

Here Klook provides a great service from hotel pick up to whole day tour, buffet lunch, snorkeling everything they do in a great professional way.

In the early morning, a minivan will pick you up from your hotel, then depart to private CoCo Beach by a premium Catamaran or a speedboat and enjoy the sunbath and swimming in the private beach with other water activities.

After that cruising along multiple islands depart to Phi Phi island and have a Thai buffet lunch included in the tour cost. Later go to the first snorkeling spot and swim in crystal clear water.

Next sightseeing in Maiton Island  where you might have a chance to spot some dolphins. Here also you can do snorkeling and enjoy the underwater world.

Phi Phi Island one day tour cost:  1200-1600 Baht

Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island:

It is another popular beach destination among travelers. While traveling in Thailand you must keep James Bond Island in your Phuket itinerary . The main attraction of Phang Nga Bay is the iconic James Bond Island which is named for its appearance in the 1974 James Bond film ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’ .

How to Reach Phang Nga Bay:

You can hire a long tail boat from Klong Khier Pier and explore all the tourist attractions that cost 1000 Baht/ person. Alternatively, you can book a day tour to Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island from Klook .

Things to do in Phang Nga Bay:

Tour operators provide a hotel pick up in the early morning. You will be taken to Pang Nga Bay by speedboat. Visit Panak Island where you can swim in a lagoon.

After that visit James Bond Island where you can take some amazing snaps of vertical karst in emerald green water. Later visit Panyee, Hong and Naka Noi island where you can relax on the beach or swim in the sea.

Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island Day Tour Cost:  1200-1500 Baht  

Discover Beautiful Beaches:

Reserve your last day to explore some of the best beaches in Phuket . The most popular beach in Phuket is Patong beach, so it is natural that you find it to be crowded all the time, but there are a lot of other beaches nearby that are less crowded and more beautiful. Some other beautiful beaches:

Karon Beach:

It is located in the south of Patong beach where you will get a family-friendly atmosphere and a long uncrowded beach.

Kata Beach:

It is located to the south of Karon beach which offers some of the clearest water than any Phuket’s major beaches. Kata beach mainly attracts solo travelers and families to enjoy a relaxing holiday without any hustle and bustle.

Kamala Beach:

You can find Kamala beach to the north of Patong beach. It is quite close to Patong beach, still, you find it comparatively less noisy than Patong beach.

Bangkok is a city that has so much to offer from luxurious shopping malls to beautiful temples, rooftop bars, and vibrant nightlife. Before ending your solo trip to Thailand it can be your favorite destination for shopping after spending some quality days in Phuket. 2 days in Bangkok is enough to explore the capital city of Thailand.

How to Reach Bangkok:

Two major international airports in Bangkok is Suvarnabhumi Airport and Dong Mueang Airport which are connected from almost all major airports in the world.

If you come from Phuket to Bangkok:

Patong to Phuket Airport: Take a minivan that costs around 200 Baht  to reach to Phuket airport from Patong.

Phuket Airport to Bangkok: There are several flights from Phuket to Bangkok(Suvarnabhumi and DMK airport). Phuket to Bangkok round trip costs around 1500 Baht/person  which is mostly preferred rather than bus service.

Bangkok Airport to Bangkok City: There are Airport bus services that leave frequently for the main city. Else you can use BTS(Thailand metro) service or book a taxi.

Cheap Accommodation in Bangkok:

Book your Bangkok budget hotel:

• The Grand Sathorn Hotel
• Hotel Royal Bangkok China Town
• The Cottage Suvarnabhumi Hotel

If you are a backpacker then you can go for these hostels:

• Mad Monkey Bangkok
• Niras Bankoc Cultural Hostel

Best Places to Visit in Bangkok:

Grand palace:.

Get up early and head straight to Grand Palace, the most popular tourist attraction in Bangkok. It is a huge complex of Thai temples and historical buildings. To have a royal experience one should visit this Grand Palace which was built in 1782. You will find the Temple of Emerald Buddha here which is considered the most important and beautiful temple in Thailand.

How to Reach Grand Palace:  By taxi, tuk-tuk or Grab Taxi.

Opening Hours of Grand Palace:  08:30 am to 03:30 pm

Entry Fee:  500 Baht

Pro Tips: You should dress properly while visiting the Grand Palace. Your shoulder and legs should be covered properly, otherwise, they might not allow you to enter Grand Palace.

Wat Pho is just 10 minutes walking distance from Grand Palace. Thai word ‘Wat’ means Temple. Here you will be amazed by the incredible 160 feet reclining golden Buddha statue. There you will also find the first Thai massage school in Thailand.

Like the Grand Palace or any other religious temple here also you should be properly dressed.

How to Reach Wat Pho:  By taxi, tuk-tuk or Grab Taxi

Opening Hours of Wat Pho: 08:00 am – 06:30 pm

Entry Fee of Wat Pho: 100 Baht

Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is another most photographed and impressive temple in Thailand. You will get a beautiful Bangkok city view from here. The white exterior of Wat Arun is covered with several layers of mosaics that make it more impressive when you look closely at it.

How to Reach Wat Arun:  Take a ferry ride from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho to reach to Wat Arun, which costs around 3 Baht.

Opening Hours of Wat Arun:  08:30 am – 05:30 pm

Entry Fee of Wat Arun:  100 Baht/person

Bangkok Safari World and Marine Park:

Safari World is one of the most popular day tours among family travelers, especially if you are with kids. This place has 2 parts: You can ride with the park bus through the Safari World. You can the animals like giraffes, lions, tigers, deer, zebra at close proximity, strutting around in their natural habitats. Overall it is a perfect destination for Thailand Family Holidays .

Safari World Entry Fee:  1000 Baht

Safari World Timing:  09:15 am – 04:30 pm

In Marine Park, you can find animals like crocodiles, kangaroos, orangutans, monkeys, walrus, tapirs, and some kind of tropical birds. Aside from zoo animals, there are some animal shows in Marine Park: Sea Lion, Dolphin Show, Bird Show, Orang-Utan Boxing, Water Ski etc.

The most amazing part of Marine Park is Giraffe Feeding where you can have a close encounter with them. You can feed the giraffes too and the food can be bought for 100 Baht.

Marine Park Timing: 10:40 am – 04:10 pm

Marine Park Entry Fee: 1000 Baht

You can buy the combo package of Safari World and Marine Park ticket with a lesser price from Klook.

Total Cost Breakup of Thailand Solo Travel:

Accommodation: 360-450 Baht/Night in Hostelworld

Food: 300-350 Baht/Day

Local Transport: 200-300 Baht/Day

Bangkok to Phuket Round Trip Flight: 3000 Baht

Day Tour and Sightseeing Entry Fees: 7000-8000 Baht

Find Your Cheap Hotels in Thailand Below:

Total Cost of Solo Trip in Thailand: $600(Approx.)

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Flight fare from your country’s airport to Bangkok airport varies from airport to airport.

USA to Thailand Cheap Flight: If you travel from USA to Thailand then round trip flight fare would be around $900-$950 .

India to Thailand Cheap Flight: The cheapest flight you will get from Kolkata airport if you travel from India. The round trip flight fare would be approx. 9000-10000 INR or $125-$140 .

Australia to Thailand Cheap Flight: The cheapest round trip flight you can avail from Perth Airport that costs around 570-600 AUD.

Pro Travel Tips for Thailand Trip:

• Beware of Scams: Stay alert for any scams in Thailand as it is quite frequent in Thailand, especially in Local Taxi. Never book any taxi if the driver tells you that the meter is broken or not working. Else the taxi drivers will charge a lot of money.
• Use Grab: Grab App is just like Uber in Thailand. If you don’t want to travel by bus, train or BTS then you can use a Grab taxi where you have to pay for what the trip is actually worth.
• Travel Insurance: Though travel insurance is not mandatory to travel in Thailand, I will highly recommend you to buy travel insurance for your solo trip to Thailand because medicine cost is very expensive in Thailand. Apart from this, to travel freely and without any worry from being scammed or losing any luggage or any financial risk, having World Nomads Travel Insurance will be the best and cheapest option.
• Try Thai food: Include Thai food in your lunch and dinner to save food costs. Thai food is much cheaper than any Indian dish or any western restaurant. 7 Eleven is another option to buy cheap food. You can buy dry fruit packets as Thailand souvenir at cheap price from 7-Eleven.
• Bargain prices: Thailand is a comparatively cheaper country only when you have the skill for bargaining. You can pretty much bargain the price of clothing, souvenirs and can save a lot of money on your solo trip in Thailand.
• Keep enough cash(Baht): Before your travel in Thailand exchange your country currency to Thai currency(Baht) and keep enough Baht with you. The exchange rate in Thailand airport is very very bad and in ATM you have to pay a good amount of exchange fees while withdrawing money using credit/debit cards.
• Sunscreen: Bring your sunscreen and hand sanitizer from home which are must in Thailand.
• Say no to Drugs: Drugs are totally illegal in Thailand. Enjoy your trip but stay away from drugs in Thailand, else the consequences might be fatal.
• Dress properly: Thailand is a religious country and they are very sensitive about their culture. Always dress properly while visiting any temple or religious place. Keep your shoulder and legs covered during any temple visit.

READ NEXT: Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe

I hope you have enjoyed the blog. If you have any queries regarding Thailand solo travel feel free to comment.

Happy Traveling… 🙂

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16 Comments

That’s a fantastic detailed guide for a first time visitor to Thailand. I visited exactly these cities on my first trip as well and I absolutely loved Phuket, Phi Phi Islands and Krabi. The James Bond Island was part of an island hopping tour and that was a really cool one because we went to 4 islands which were quite amazing. I would love to go back to Thailand some day, but visit entirely different cities this time. The food there is outta the world!

Hi Medha, it is really nice to hear from you.

A great extensive Thailand guide that I do love. I was one to be trapped into the Tiger hugging “craze” however I know that it’s not good for the animals – they are wild and need to be in their environment. I love Thailand because of the culture and the multiple things that can be done- all different too

OMG… :O That was really dangerous. It might turn into fatal consequences.

Thailand is such a beautiful and diverse destination! I went with a close friend but would love to go back and experience it as a solo traveler. I think I would feel entirely safe there!

Sure Shane, Thailand is safe for female solo travelers. Still, you should be careful like any other foreign country.

What an amazing guide for first timers! When I eventually take my other we’ll have to use this guide for all the places I’ve not been to. Good to know about the Grab app for taxis too. I got ripped off in Bangkok years ago! Thai food has to be some of my favourite in the world and I’d love to go back to visit Krabi and see more beaches!

Yes Jenni, Thai food is really awesome and the best part is you can save a lot of money if you spend money for Thai food instead of Western food.

Always love spending time in Thailand, especially for the amazing food. It’s nice to spend time in Bangkok and the beaches when you only have a week. You’ll need to plan another trip to see the north.

Yes, that’s correct. Total 15 days are not enough to explore all the places in Thailand.

This is a really detailed guide for newcomers to Thailand, I wish I knew it when I was going there. Great job with putting everything together.

I have been to Thailand a number of times, but I never actually made it to Pattaya. Perhaps I should circle back and check it out on my next visit!

Thailand is one of the places, where I consider moving. I can work remotely a lot of the time and I consider moving from Finland to somewhere warmer.

Great post! I have been to Bangkok twice and will be checking out Samut Prakan in a few weeks on the outskirts of the capital. I love the country and the people there are so friendly. I’d love to make it to some of the other places you mention here, and I agree with basically all of your tips for a smooth journey.

That’s a nice plan. Let me know about your experience in Thailand after the trip.

Pretty nice post. I stumbled upon your post and wished to say that I’ve really enjoyed browsing your article. After all I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I hope you write again soon!

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2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

How to get to bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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2024 bangkok travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, tips and more for first-timers in thailand.

Planning a trip to Bangkok, Thailand this 2024? Let me help you plan an Amazing Thailand Adventure! If you're visiting Bangkok for the first time, then this detailed Bangkok Travel Guide Blog with sample DIY itinerary (PDF), things to do, tourist spots, budget, breakdown of expenses, and more, will help you plan your trip to the "Land of Smiles!"

Updated: 2024 budget travel guide blog to bangkok for first-timers, thailand visa requirements, when is the best time to visit bangkok, how many days to stay in bangkok.

PRE-TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Book your flights to bangkok.

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND ACTIVITIES

• BTS Skytrain Rabbit Card - this is a reloadable card that you can use when riding Bangkok's Skytrain. BTS is the swiftest way to go around the city and avoid heavy traffic in Bangkok.
• 4G SIM Card for Thailand - internet connection is very important when traveling abroad and to stay connected with your family and friends without overspending on roaming services. Be sure to get a local 4G SIM card when traveling to Thailand.
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Half Day Tour - this is a day tour from Bangkok. This tour will let you experience Thailand's biggest and most popular floating market.
• Ayutthaya Day Tour with Sunset Boat Ride - this day tour from Bangkok will let you discover Thailand's ancient capital with a visit to three of the most important temples in Ayutthaya - Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Lokayasutharam. It also includes a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, Ayutthaya Floating Market, and a Sunset Cruise around the rivers of Ayutthaya.

INDOCHINA ADVENTURE?

• Vientiane to Bangkok
• Siem Reap to Bangkok
• Yangon to Bangkok

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK FROM THE AIRPORT?

From suvarnabhumi international airport, from don mueang international airport.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY IN BANGKOK?

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED IN THAILAND?

4g sim card, 4g pocket wifi.

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK?

Bts sky train, grab car/taxi, metered taxi, motorcycles, private car charter.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK?

For you residence.

• Standard Double Or Twin Room Only - starts at 1,169 Pesos per night
• Standard Double Or Twin Room With Breakfast - starts at 1,481 Pesos per night
• Deluxe Double Room Only - starts at 1,591 Pesos per night
• Deluxe Double Room With Breakfast- starts at 1,856 Pesos per night

Lub D Bangkok

• Lub D Ladies’ Dormitory - starts at 453.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Lub D Dormitory Room Only - starts at 482.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Railway Twin Room Only - starts at 1,113.00 Pesos per night for 2 persons
• Lub D Double Room Only - starts at 1,782.00 Pesos per night for 2 persons

The Spades Hostel

• 1 Bed In 8-Bed Mixed Shared In Dormitory - starts at 509.00 Pesos per night/bed
• 1 Bed In 4 Bed Mixed Shared In Dormitory - starts at 637.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Deluxe Single Bed With Shared Bathroom - starts at 729.00 Pesos per night/bed
• Deluxe Queen Room - starts at 1,977.00 Pesos per night

Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4

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• Deluxe Room - starts at 5,200.00 Pesos per night
• Deluxe Room with Bathtub - starts at 6,700.00 Pesos per night

Other Hotels and Hostels in Bangkok

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THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK + TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS

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The Grand Palace

• Guided tour in Grand palace & Emerald Buddha
• Bangkok Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew with Thai Massage Half Day Tour
• Bangkok Cultural City Private Customize One Day Tour
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Walking Half Day Tour
• Bangkok Night Tour: Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Grand Palace

Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha)

Mahanakhon Tower SkyWalk

• Experience Thailand’s tallest observatory deck when you visit the Mahanakhon SkyWalk.
• Hop on a multimedia-themed elevator and head to the King Power Mahanakhon’s 74th floor for a sweeping view of the city.
• Stop by the building’s rooftop on the 78th floor and enjoy an exhilarating walk across the world’s largest glass floors.
• Visit in the afternoon for a memorable sunset experience or late at night for a glittering view of Bangkok. -Klook

KING POWER MAHANAKHON TOWER

The Giant Swing

• Pom Mahakan

• Loha Prasat

Erawan Shrine

Asiatique The Riverfront

Khao San Road

Patpong Night Market, Bazaar, and Clubs

Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine

Jim Thompson House

Terminal 21

Siam Paragon

Madame Tussauds Bangkok

Thai Spa Experience

KidZania Bangkok

Muay Thai Live

Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Dream World

Ancient City and Erawan Museum

• Erawan Museum: 99/9 Moo 1 Bangmuangmai, Samut Prakan, Bangkok 10270, Thailand
• Ancient City: 296/1 Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoo, Samut Prakan 10280, Thailand

Must-try Food in Bangkok, Thailand

MUST-EXPERIENCE DAY TOURS FROM BANGKOK

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Other floating market tours in thailand.

• Thailand Floating Markets Day Tour
• Bangkok Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Grand Palace Half Day Trip
• Amphawa Floating Market Half Day Trip
• Vana Nava Waterpark & Floating Market Custom Tour from Bangkok
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Chatuchak Weekend Market Private Day Tour
• Maeklong Train Market and Amphawa Floating Night Market with Firefly Viewing Tour
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Chatuchak Weekend Market Half Day Trip

Ayutthaya Day Tour with Sunset Boat Ride

Other tours in ayutthaya:.

• Colors of Ayutthaya Biking Tour
• Ayutthaya Grand Pearl River Cruise Tour
• Ayutthaya City Culture Biking Tour
• Ancient Ayutthaya Tour
• Ayutthaya Food Tour
• 2D1N Ayutthaya Private Trip from Bangkok
• Ancient Ayutthaya Private Day Tour

Ratchaburi Day Tour from Bangkok

Other day tours from bangkok, thailand.

Kanchanaburi Full Day Tour

• Travel back in time and recapture Kanchanaburi's triumphs and tragedies on the River Kwai Bridge
• Discover WW2 landmarks including the Death Railway, essential to Thailand's history and culture
• Enjoy an educational stroll on the historical streets by the riverside and experience local food
• Be escorted by your professional yet friendly guide fluent in Chinese and English on this full day tour

Splendid Pattaya Day Tour

• Ride an Amphibious Boat to Pattaya Floating Market, the largest and most popular marketplace in Pattaya
• Upgrade your Instagram feed with Art In Paradise Pattaya's creative 3D murals
• Chill by Pattaya beach with a fresh coconut in hand as you watch a golden sunset
• Get VIP seats at the Colosseum Show Pattaya, a must-see cabaret show when in Thailand

Amphawa Day Tour

• Experience Thailand like a true local - take the railway train and shop at leisure at Amphawa Floating Market
• Ampha is famous for its delicious shellfish (solen strictus) and various seafood cuisine
• Have an authentic seafood lunch at a well-known restaurant in Amphawa
• Visit one of Thailand’s most interesting temples, Wat Bang Kung, surrounded by the roots of a Banyan tree

Hua Hin Day Tour

• Discover the beauty of Hua Hin, a resort town formerly frequented by the Thai royal family
• This immersive tour takes you on an unforgettable adventure to some of the city’s most amazing sights
• Take in the incredible natural views, unique atmosphere and learn about its rich past
• If your itinerary takes you to Hua Hin next, your guide can arrange a downtown Hua Hin drop off for you!

Pattaya City & Coral Island Day Tour

• Visit the neighboring seaside city of Pattaya and explore its scenic beaches on a day trip from Bangkok!
• Take a boat trip to Coral Island and explore its sparkling white beaches and crystal clear waters
• Enjoy fun-filled water activities such as jet ski, parasailing, sea walking, snorkeling and more!
• Experience Pattaya's vibrant and bustling night life as you stroll along Pattaya Beach Road
• An English, Chinese, Japanese, or Korean speaking guide is available to guide you!

Best Places to Shop in Bangkok?

Chatuchak market.

• Wednesday and Thursday – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Plants and Flowers Sections only)
• Friday – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Wholesale Day)
• Saturday and Sunday – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (the whole market is open)

Patpong Night Market

4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS DIY BANGKOK ITINERARY

Day 1: arrival + city tour.

• 06:15 AM - Depart from Manila via Cebu Pacific Air
• 08:15 AM - Arrive in Bangkok
• 09:00 AM - Take the train to Bangkok City Center
• 10:00 AM - Leave bags (or early check-in if allowed) in hotel/hostel in Silom
• 11:00 AM - Lunch
• 12:00 NN - Visit Wat Pho
• 02:00 PM - Visit Wat Arun
• 05:00 PM - Khao San Road / Dinner
• 09:00 PM - Back at the hotel/hostel

DAY 2: AYUTTHAYA DAY TOUR

• 08:30 AM - Meet up at Century Mall (BTS Victory Monument station)
• 09:30 AM - Arrival in Ayutthaya
• 10:00 AM - Visit Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
• 12:00 NN - Travel to Ayutthaya Floating Market for lunch (own expense)
• 01:00 PM - Explore Ayutthaya Floating Market
• 02:00 PM - Visit Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Lokayasutharam
• 05:00 PM - Enjoy a scenic sunset boat ride
• 06:00 PM - Stop by a night market for food and snacks (own expense)
• 06:30 PM - Depart from Ayutthaya
• 08:00 PM - Arrival in Bangkok (BTS Victory Monument station)
• 09:00 PM - Patpong Night Market / Dinner
• 12:00 MN - Back at the hotel/hostel

DAY 3: FLOATING MARKET DAY TOUR

• 08:00 AM - Meet up at Century Mall (next to BTS Victory Monument station)
• 10:00 AM - Arrive at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and enjoy a 60-minute electric boat ride
• 10:30 AM - Feed fish while on a boat
• 11:00 AM - 12:00 NN - Freely explore the floating market
• 12:00 NN - 01:00 PM - Visit a local seafood market
• 02:00/03:00 PM - Return/arrive at Century Mall Bangkok
• 05:00 PM - Asiatique The Riverfront / Dinner

DAY 4: CITY TOUR + DEPARTURE

• 07:00 AM - Check-out and leave bags at the hotel
• 08:30 AM - The Royal Palace + Temple of the Emerald Buddha ( BOOK A TOUR HERE! )
• 10:30 AM - Lunch
• 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM - City Tour
• City Pillar Shrine
• Giant Swing
• Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple)
• 03:00 PM - Back at the hotel, get bags and travel to the airport
• 04:00 PM - Arrive at the airport, check-in for the flight
• 07:00 PM - Depart for Manila

Sample Bangkok Trip Budget for 4 days and 3 nights for 10,000 pesos budget

• You will be staying for 3 nights in a private room that is good for 2 persons for PHP 1,100 per night.
• You are a group of two.
• Your maximum expense for food is 50 THB for breakfast and 100 THB for lunch and dinner per person.
• You'll be using a Rabbit Card pre-loaded with 200 THB.

PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES

• Budget hotel for 3 nights - PHP 3,300 / 2 = 1,650 per person
• BTS Skytrain Rabbit Card - PHP 467.00 per person
• 4G SIM Card for Thailand - PHP 240.00 per person
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Half Day Tour - PHP 1,126.00 per person
• Ayutthaya Day Tour with Sunset Boat Ride - PHP 2,091.00 per person

TOTAL - 5,574 per person

Day 1 expenses.

• Train: Airport to City Center - 45 THB
• BTS Skytrain to Silom - use Rabbit card (39 THB)
• Hotel (1st night) - pre-booked
• Lunch - 100 THB
• Grab Taxi: Silom to Wat Pho - 80 THB / 2 = 40 THB per person
• Wat Pho Entrance Fee - 100 THB
• Boat Ride to Wat Arun - 10 THB
• Wat Arun Entrance Fee - 50 THB
• Grab Taxi to Khao San - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• Dinner - 100 THB
• TOTAL - 470 THB per person

DAY 2 EXPENSES

• Hotel (2nd night) - pre-booked
• Breakfast - 50 THB
• Train: Silom (Surasak) to Victory Monument station - use Rabbit card (39 THB)
• Ayutthaya Day Tour - pre-booked
• Train: Victory Monument station to Silom (Surasak)- use Rabbit card (39 THB)
• TOTAL - 250 THB per person

DAY 3 EXPENSES

• Hotel (3rd night) - pre-booked
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Day Tour - pre-booked
• Grab Taxi: Silom to Asiatique - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• Grab Taxi: Asiatique to Silom - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• TOTAL - 300 THB per person

DAY 4 EXPENSES

• Grab Taxi: Silom to Royal Palace - 80 THB / 2 = 40 THB per person
• The Royal Palace Entrance Fee - 500 THB
• Loha Prasat Entrance Fee - 20 THB
• Wat Suthat Entrance Fee - 20 THB
• Wat Saket Entrance Fee - 100 THB
• Grab Taxi: Wat Saket to Silom - 50 THB / 2 = 25 THB per person
• Train: Silom (Surasak) to PhayaThai - use Rabbit card (44 THB)
• Airport Rail Link - 45 THB
• TOTAL - 1,000 THB per person

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

• DAY 1 - 470 THB
• DAY 2 - 250 THB
• DAY 3 - 300 THB
• DAY 4 - 1,000 THB

TOTAL - 2,920 THB or 4,701 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 5,574 php per person, grand total - 10,275 php per person.

• Round trip airfare Manila-Bangkok-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS AND REMINDERS

• Dress appropriately. When visiting a temple in Thailand, the basic rule is to cover your shoulders and knees for both men and women. To be sure, always wear pants. But there are some temples (such as Wat Pho) that allow entry for men wearing shorts with length below the knee.
• Check the weather. Depending on the season, the weather in Bangkok, Thailand is hot and humid during summer months. It is suggested that you wear light and breathable clothes. If you're visiting during the rainy season, don't forget to bring an umbrella or raincoat for occasional rain showers and thunderstorms. I suggest, you use weather apps to check for the weather forecast before your trip.
• Wear comfy pair of shoes. You will be walk a lot in exploring the temples and palaces in Thailand. It is best to wear comfortable footwear.
• Be respectful. Always abide by the rules in the temples and places of worship you're visiting. Women should not talk or touch the monks. Also, do not point using your feet.
• To save on travel expenses , join a group or join-in tours in Bangkok just like what we did.
• For cheap flights to Bangkok , book it several months in advance. Airfare tends to be pricey when your desired travel dates come nearer. It is best if you book it 3 to 5 months in advance. You could get more discounts by using Traveloka's weekly promo codes. Always check the "On-Going Promos" tab on their website or in the app to avail more discounts.
• To save on travel expenses, stay in hostels or budget hotels in Bangkok . There are many nice and decent budget hotels and hostels in Bangkok to choose from that will fit your budget.

BANGKOK TRAVEL BLOGS

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Day Tour from Bangkok - visiting a floating market is a must-do activity when in Thailand. I narrated here our experience joining a group tour to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
• Ayutthaya Day Tour from Bangkok - this includes the top things to do, tourist spots and attractions, as well as where to eat in Ayutthaya.
• Ratchaburi Day Tour from Bangkok - another must-visit province near Bangkok is Ratchaburi. I shared here our experience on what are the top tourist spots and things to do in Ratchaburi. And of course, the must-try food!
• Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4 - here is my complete hotel review of Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4. This is one of the best hotels we've stayed at in Bangkok.

Are you ready to travel to Bangkok for the first time? I hope this Bangkok Budget Travel Guide 2024 for first-timers will help you in planning an unforgettable and amazing Thailand Adventure! Enjoy and have fun!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 22 comments :.

Hi, where did you go when you booked for a one full day charter?

Hi! Ask ko lang po if the immigration would ask for show money?

I'm not the one who made this blog, but I think they wouldn't ask for a show money. Just show your ticket and hotel accommodation (for first timers). It's the easiest way to pass the immigs. I hope this will help.

Usually nmn sa mga immigration pag group kayo they wont ask na... pero mas naghahanap sila ng accomodation just to make sure na hnd kayo mag tnt sa country nila. Mas kilalang hotel the better.

They said 10,000baht diba? Mga Php16,250.43 they said just in case they check at least u have already toavoid headaches.. 😁😁

Upon checking it's in PESO not BAHT :) Please read carefully

Sobrang helpful. Thank you!

Hi I'm a first timer traveller. It's actually my first time out of the country and me and my friend is just worrying about the requirements that the immigration might ask us. Though I have passport, ticket and hotel itirenary. I want to ask if for secondary documents, is the immigration will ask for a bank account? I don't have a personal bank account, what I have is an employer bank account (BDO) can I use this to show my bank statements? And what else you can recommend me to have as a supporting documents. I just really want to make things smoothly in my travel.. and btw thanks to the owner of this blog, this will help me and my friend a lot..😊

Immigration officials will always profile first time travellers especially those bound for Bangkok because the city is a trancient point and a stop over for those travelling to the Middle East. So expect that they would suspect you as someone who will be using BKK as a backdoor for employment in the Middle East. So in order to avoid hassles from Immigration guys, make sure to establish that you have a job to return to in Manila, a clear itinerary of your travel, hotel reservation and of course a return ticket. Just be confident in answering their questions and you should be fine.

Hi the last time I check Bank Statement is not necessary in the immigration part for the exit, especially if the country is visa free non the less bank statement usually need in applying for a visa. Just present your document(passport, hotel reservation and travel itinerary) and answer their few question.

can i get a pdf version of the itinerary?

Hello. Ask ko lang po. Visit ako Bangkok.Pwede ba akong magtravel to Siem reap from Bangkok then go back to bangkok again ?

Hi po ask ko lang po pag family kami mag travel 5 persons po how much po need namin na pocket money? Or dapat po per person pa din po ang pocket money? Thank you so much po🤗

If ever i am first time to travel in thailand can i avail the 1 month visa free?

Paano kung ofw at kakauwi lang.. Siyempre wala naman work dito sa pinas. Wala mapapakita na proof na may babalikan na work sa pinas.

Same balak ko din magbakasyon Sana . Pero di pa ko exit sa Saudi . Balik baksyon lang talaga

Hi, can you recommend an affordable hotel in BKK?

Our arrival is at DMK airport. Would you happen to know where we can buy BTS/rabbit card? (klook doesn’t offer a pick up point at DMK, only at BKK airport) Thank you in advance.

Kindly book the one that can be picked-up at the Klook counter at CentralWorld,

Hi!ask lang po, what if po 3 po kayong magkakaibigan na mag tatravel bangkok thailand, tapos puro first timer po kayong tatlo, hindi na po kayo dumaan sa agency para mas maka less ng gastusin, hindi ba kayo mah ooffload sa immagration?thanks po.

Pa follow up po-same situation- OCt 20 to 24 travel. DIY tour lang din po ano po tips para di ma off load

Hi ask ko lang . Balak Kasi namin magbakasyon sa Thailand. Pede ba magbakasyon sa iBang bansa kapag my contract kapa sa Saudi.

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This Is How Far You Can Get With $100 USD In Thailand

Quick links, trying thailand's food for $100 usd/day, accommodations on a budget in thailand, thailand has a low cost of living, traveling to thailand during the 'off season' will save you money.

Aside from its Insta-worthy beaches that everyone has added to their bucket lists , Thailand is a beautiful country that should be appreciated for its culture as well as its scenery. Everything about Thailand is exotic to travelers, from the sights and sounds to its regional cuisine and the best part? It usually comes at a pretty affordable rate for those planning a budget. With many wondering how far 100 USD can get them in Thailand (USD to Baht), it's no surprise this comes up a lot for potential vacationers. Just how far can someone spread their money abroad?

The toughest part about sticking to a budget will be deciding where to spend that money since there's so much to experience in such a country . The good news is that $100 USD is quite a solid amount to start with per day in Thailand, and this is what it will get travelers while they're there.

UPDATE: 2023/06/27 17:28 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Coming To Thailand In The Off Season Might Be Worth It

This article has been updated with new information for budgeting a trip to Thailand. One of the cheaper times to see this stunning country is from later spring/early summer to the beginning of fall, so that's worth considering. It's certainly possible to get by in Thailand with 100 USD a day: so have fun!

Related: Visiting Thailand For The First Time? Here Are The Biggest Dos And Don'ts

Right off the bat, according to Money , the best place to go for an affordable Thailand visit is Phuket. This is where USD will travel the furthest, and it's one of the cheapest cities in the country for travelers in nearly every aspect. To start, we first need to know the conversation rate.

• Conversion Rate: $100 USD equals 3,554 Thai baht

While this might not mean much now, this should put into perspective how far that will travel: $17 USD equates to roughly 600 baht, which is the same price as an expensive silk scarf or covering. So, not only is it enough to purchase high-quality goods, but it'll also be more than enough to spend on food per day. According to Budget Your Trip , the average cost of meals per day in Thailand is 481 baht. Since $100 USD equal 3,554 baht, this means that a traveler can probably get about seven full days of meals in Thailand if they stick to a budget.

This could include trying street foods, opting for local restaurants rather than high-end dining establishments, and scoping out the grocery store for ready-made meals or cooking dinner at the hotel or rental. With the average meal being priced at about 198 baht per person per day, this is more than doable for a week-long vacation.

• Pro-tip: Thailand is home to some incredible street foods that should not be missed; not only are they delicious, but they'll fit perfectly within a budget.

Related: Wondering Why Thai Food Is So Popular? This Is Why It's Worth Visiting Thailand For

When it comes to finding affordable lodging accommodations in Thailand, this will come down to where travelers choose to stay. As stated before, Phuket is very affordable to most travelers , with plenty of options depending on one's budget. The pricier, higher-end accommodations can be found closer to the city of Bangkok, so those should probably be left out when determining a Thailand budget.

Chiang Mai is a great alternative for those who wish to explore Bangkok but don't have it in their budget to stay within the city limits. The best way to do this is to arrange an overnight train trip into the city while making Chiang Mai a traveler's home base for the duration of the vacation.

Occasionally, it's even cheaper to stay in Chiang Mai as opposed to Phuket, depending on the time of the year. In order to avoid the peak season costs, travelers could opt to stay during the off-season which will afford them a bit more in the way of what can be spent on accommodations. The cheapest option (as with any country) is a hostel; on average, one night in a hostel for one person is roughly 1,000 baht.

In USD, that's well under $100, and a traveler could afford to spend a full $100 on three nights with some extra baht left over. Combined with food costs - which are usually well under 1,000 baht or $30 USD - and travelers can afford to fill an itinerary with a budget of $100/day.

Tips For Saving Even More Money

Some of the biggest costs for any traveler are food and transportation. In order to cut down on these, travelers might want to consider opting for street foods. Thailand is home to some of the best food in the world, and many dishes are simple and quite affordable.

Those who opt to stay in a hostel or go with a rental such as Airbnb or another rental service are also in luck. More often than not, the neighborhood one is staying in has its own local food hub. This means that a good, affordable meal might be right around the corner without a person even realizing it - don't be afraid to ask hosts or the front desk for suggestions! Additionally, relying on transportation methods such as walking, bicycles, or scooters can be a huge help when it comes to cutting down the costs of a taxi or public transportation.

Overall the cost of living is very low in Thailand (after all, the average monthly salary in Thailand is $550). Services in Thailand are also very affordable. It is always important to know how much money one will need while in Thailand .

According to Numbeo.com, some of the costs of living in Thailand are:

• Inexpensive Meal At Restaurant: $2.00 (Range $1 to $6)
• Cappuccino: $2.00
• Domestic Beer: $1.70 (0.5 liters)
• Public Transport: $0.90

Of course, prices are often higher for tourists. This is not because Thais scam international tourists but because many international tourists may not be willing to dine in inexpensive restaurants where the meals cost $2.00. Instead, most tourists choose to dine at more modern and flashy establishments and pay $10-15 for a meal - but that's their decision.

So a budget-originated backpacker can easily live in Thailand for $20 a day (stay in cheap hostel accommodation and eat local food). That means backpackers can live in Thailand for $100 for around five days. Some may be even able to make a $100 stretch for a week, but there will be little or no money left for a beer or some other treat (and activities are restricted to walking around taking pictures). Very basic hostels can be booked in Thailand for only $5 per night.

• Flights, hotels, and attractions are typically cheaper during the off-season months of April, May, September, and October.
• Late spring and early fall are the cheapest times to see Thailand.

One of the little-known facts about visiting Thailand is that the late spring and early fall is the cheapest time to come here. Beginning in the late spring (April), Thailand begins to see fewer travelers due to the hotter, more humid climate. Therefore, from April to May, there will be cheaper pricing, as well as throughout September and October. On top of that, Skyscanner reports that flights to Thailand are cheapest during July, August, September, AND October: so that could be a prime time to go.

Because of the inclement weather throughout the country during this time, tourists can expect lower overall pricing for their stay. Especially with $100, that can make a world of difference. For instance, saving a few hundred dollars on flights means more money on the mainland. What once might have been $100 a day could become much more because of these flight savings, which nobody will argue with. Planning a vacation at off-season times in Thailand and around the globe is always a good idea.

Our Top 10 Cheap Warm Places to Travel This Winter & Year Round

Feeling a bit freezing back at home? Wanting to warm up somewhere with some more sunshine? Just in need of a little escape? Let's turn up the heat on your travels without breaking your budget. Whether it's winter or not, you'll find the high temperatures you're looking for without the high prices in these warm weather destinations. So ditch the cold and start packing for your pick from our list of favorites. From Gulf Shores to Goa, you'll find the weather is fine and the prices affordable here , no matter the time of year if you know where to look! First though, learn more about HomeExchange and how you can use it to travel to cheap warm places to travel...

Cheap Warm Places to Travel in the US

To warm up state side it's all about the south. The southernmost states enjoy warm weather year round. Even in the depths of winter, don't despair. You don't need a passport to thaw out. Take a road trip down to these great cheap warm places to travel. In our list you'll find a bit everything, starting with gorgeous gulf beaches.

St. Petersburg, Florida

Famous for its mild winters, Florida (the sunshine state!) is a favorite for the cheap warm places to travel in the winter months and year round. With 1,350 miles of coastline, there are tons of beautiful beach destinations to choose from that won't break the bank. A personal favorite of ours is St. Petersburg (not be be confused with the very cold Russian city of the same name). It's often called the Sunshine City and in addition to its tropical weather, it has raving reviews about its local art scene, culinary offering, and shopping. For cheap warm places to visit in December in USA, consider a Florida Christmas!

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Alabama isn't exactly known for as a world famous beach destination, but perhaps it should be – for budget travelers at the very least. Its ability to fly under the radar with its white sandy beaches you'll find in Gulf Shore s makes it one of our favorite cheap warm places to travel in the US. Here there is a great local mix and old and new that you'll appreciate along with the nice weather year round . Another affordable local aspect is nature, migratory bird watching and sea turtles that you can observe for free (without disturbing them in their natural habitat of course!).

Tucson, Arizona

Arizona is a snowbird favorite as when the temperatures drops up north, those who can't stand the cold head down here for some sunshine in the dessert. The cost of living in Tucson is relatively low, compared to other destinations in Arizona like Scottsdale for example. These affordable prices trickle down to tourists as well with great affordable dining options (delicious Mexican cuisine!) and an array of accommodations for all price ranges. Free things we love for budget travelers here are strolling and enjoying the local architecture of the old town and hiking in the hills to see the majestic giant saguaro cactuses!

New Orleans, Louisiana

Even in winter the weather is warm and mild in New Orleans , and in the summertime things can get hot and sticky down here in the big easy. But no matter the time of year or the reasons you choose to come, New Orleans remains one of our long time favorites for cheap warm places to travel year round. It's one of the best cheap warm places to travel in February because Mardi Gras almost always falls around this month and the city is as alive as ever. Year round here you can enjoy some of the most extraordinary history, architecture, dining, and music in the United States, and you'll be hard pressed to catch a chill during any of it.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Sin City is another desert destination we love as one of the best cheap warm places to travel in the US. When the sun shines the weather is fine here in Las Vegas . Vegas has 292 sunny days a year, so it's almost always warm in fact . That makes it great to for sitting poolside, walking up the strip, visiting the neon graveyard, tasting all the amazing food (Top chefs come from all over the world to open restaurants here). You don't have to be a high roller through to take a chance in Vegas. If you want to gamble for a bit of fun without breaking the bank, for just a cent you can spin the reels and take a shot at a big win with the casino's penny slots.

Cheap Warm Places to Travel Worldwide

If you want to expand your horizons, go further for some sun and feel the heat in places like Asia, South America, and the Southern Hemisphere. If you're looking for cheap warm places to travel in December, January, February, it's always good to head south and hang around the equator for high temps and low prices. Check out these destinations to warm up in winter and all year round.

Depending on where you're coming from, getting to Goa can be a bit pricey. Once there however, you can enjoy all its beauty for fairly little. What little you do spend, is well worth it as this incredible destination offers warm weather year round, beautiful beaches, dreamy canals, historic places of worship, stunning local architecture and of course amazing food. It's no wonder that Indians and foreigners alike love Goa. Because winter is dry season, it's one of the best cheap places to travel in December all the way through to March.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand is a very popular budget friendly destination, but if you hit the right places at the wrong time the prices can actually be quite explosive. If you're not totally set on the beach, consider the incredible Chiang Mai in the mountains of the north. It's largely considered to be less expensive than Bangkok or Phuket , but offers the same incredible warm south asian weather year round with all the enchantment of Thailand. You'll love the local dining scene and exploring its historic Buddhist Temples.

Marrakech, Morrocco

For an exotic and enthralling destination that is just a stone's throw from Europe, there is no place like Morocco. This country on the whole is worth a visit, but Marrakech remains its most popular spot. While it can snow in winter in the nearby Atlas Mountains, in the city itself it can be as warm as 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) this time of year. Summer can be quite hot, but spring and autumn are perfect for pool lounging at your personal riad , and browsing the local markets for good eats and bargaining for treasures to take home.

Canary Islands, Spain

After the holidays, some people in Europe like heading to the alps to kick off ski season. Others just want to warm up. If that's you, choose the Canary Islands for from our cheap warm places to travel. Even the tourism site greats you with "hello from the best climate in the world"! It's one of the best cheap warm places to travel in January and February, as on average there are only 3 or 4 days of rain per month and highs that hang around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). Plus it's fairly affordable, not just be in large thanks to amazing free activities like hiking, kite surfing, surfing, swimming, and more.

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

We can't forget the Caribbean for cheap warm weather destinations year round. If you're looking for the best place to warm up in the Carribean without breaking the bank, consider Santo Domingo . It's actually the older settlement in the americas and almost 600 years old! So, in addition so amazing weather, there is history to enjoy along with amazing cuisine. The Dominican Republic is known to be much more affordable than its neighbors, Jamaica and The Bahamas where an average hotel price is as much as $500 less per night.

Stay With HomeExchange in the Cheapest Warm Places to Travel

When we want to warm up, sometimes our budget can break our dreams of a beach holiday. Accommodations represent one of the biggest expenses when planning a trip, especially to warm places that are in high demand in winter and summer.

HomeExchange is an incredible alternative, as it's based on reciprocal exchange through home swapping. So say goodbye to price surges and sign up for free to begin browsing our community for a holiday home in these cheap warm places to travel and so many more. Our community of like minded travelers is the largest in the world for home exchanges, and our members are raving. See what they have to say!

HomeExchange is the best place to find kind, honest people who just want to travel without big expenses. - Leslie, Australia

We tripled our vacation days without tripling budget. - Lisa, United States

Home exchange has allowed us to travel and stay in lovely places with no, or little, cost. - Sandy, USA

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