thailand travel on a budget

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!

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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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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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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 .

Swimming Pool at Bamboo Hideaway in Koh Mak

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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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

💰 My 2024 Thailand Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

A woman on a beach with wooden boats and limestone cliffs in the background.

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.

A red truck with Thai on it saying that it's local transportation.

🌶️ 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.

A woman in a street food stall making coffee.

🐘 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.

A high view of small green mountains surrounded by water fields.

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.

A woman holding a plate of salad, rice and curry with chicken in an outdoor area.

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:

A bowl with red-orange soup with chicken and noodles in it.

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:

A woman cooking at an outdoor street kitchen.

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:

A street with cars and people riding tuk-tuks.

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:

A woman standing next to an elephant in a lush area.

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.

A heavily adorned temple with intricate designs.

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).

Several ornate buildings with gold-plate facades against a sunset sky.

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 .

A high view of an island with green trees and limestone cliffs.

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.

A woman sipping on a small cup of tea while sitting outside in a garden area.

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!

Thailand on a Budget: 10 Tips to Save Money and Travel Well

We all love Thailand for its pristine beaches, amazing culinary delights and the friendly smiles that are greeted when you travel through this beautiful country. This article will help you plan your next trip, save money and give you some insider tips on visiting this amazing country.

Thailand, the land of natural beauty, attracts travellers with its turquoise water, tasty cuisine and lively culture. Beyond the fancy postcard-perfect beaches and temples there lies a budget-friendly paradise waiting to be explored. With perfect planning and following the tips, you can experience the real beauty of Thailand.

The Best Islands to Visit from Phuket this 2024

Table of Contents

10 Tips to Save Money and Travel Well in Thailand

Travel in may to october.

The high tourist influx from November to April drives up prices, making travel difficult for small-budget travellers. Traveling during the green season benefits in various ways, as the crowd of travellers is less during this season. Decreased travellers during this season lead to a decrease in hotel prices and the landscape emerges more beautiful when it rains. Major discounts on spa treatments to steam bowl noodles double the joy without breaking the budget.

Take Local Transport

Public buses in Thailand are incredibly affordable, with air conditioning, comfortable seating and extensive networks. Songthaews is a fun and budget-friendly way to navigate cities. These are the most convenient and cost-effective ways to travel in Thailand.

Stay in Guesthouses and Home stays

Submerge yourself in local life. Luxury resorts are good, but guesthouses are more authentic and affordable. Some guesthouse rooftops are best for socialising and swapping travel tips. Help you learn some and eat at home-cooked meals.

Dine at Street Food Stalls and Night Markets

Thailand’s streets are a major attraction, lined with vibrant food stalls and night markets for shopping. From sizzling fries to rice desserts, you will feel the explosion of flavours in your mouth, which will last forever. If you want to try something new, don’t be afraid to bargain; it’s part of the fun.

Befriend the Monks and Explore Free Temples

Thailand is surrounded by stunning temples, some of which offer free entry and others that require minimal fees. If you are an early bird, you can beat the crowd and experience the spiritual atmosphere. Wat Pho Reclining Buddha, Wat Arun, and the murals of Wat Suthat are the best places to visit.

Hike through National Parks and Natural Wonders

Explore the hidden gems by trekking through rainforests and National parks. Hidden natural waterfalls in national parks like Khao Sok and Doi Inthanon are perfect for swimming and camping. Their fees are minimal camping there is affordable and budget friendly. Feel the vibrant nature with a perfect view, which gives your lifetime memories.

Learn Basic Thai Phrases

Learn basic Thai phrases that will help you communicate with others, like “sawasdee” which means hello, “Khob khun” which means excuse me, etc. Locals appreciate the efforts, and you might get better deals at the market or get help navigating public transport or cities.

Bargain with a Smile

Bargaining is a way of living in Thailand, especially in the marketplace. Approach them with a smile and a friendly attitude and be prepared to walk away if you are not happy with the price. Successful bargaining will make you feel like a champion. It’s just a cultural experience and is fun.

Skip Expensive Tours and Go DIY

Organised tours in Thailand are expensive. With little planning and research, you can easily explore Thailand without disturbing your budget. Rent a motorbike or scooter or use local buses or trains to navigate islands or rural areas for a more authentic experience. Detailed information is present in guidebooks about public transportation, attractions and local customs.

Embrace Free Entertainment

Thailand consists of plenty of vibrant cultures that can be enjoyed free of cost like live entertainment, Buddhist ceremonies and traditional dance performances, or simply watch a local park. Some villages host festivals throughout the year, showcasing local music, food and traditional dance performances. Ask locals or ask accommodations for recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to travel to Thailand? November to April is the best time to travel to Thailand, as the weather remains cool and dry and is perfect for outdoor activities.

How many days can I stay in Thailand on a tourist visa? Visitors can stay in Thailand on a tourist visa for 60 days (about 2 months). It can be extended for 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks), or about 4 and a half weeks. But no longer than that.

How many days are required for a vacation in Thailand? Five days are enough to explore this beautiful country. It’s better to stay for 7 to 8 days to enjoy the beauty a little more.

Is Thailand safe for solo female travellers? Thailand is safe for solo female travellers, if they avoid visiting quiet places and don’t trust strangers.

Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Thailand? It’s good to be prepared before you start your journey. Vaccination for tetanus, hepatitis A and yellow fever is necessary.

These helpful tips will ensure you have an unforgettable experience while saving money. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your budget-friendly journey. Your Thailand adventure is waiting for you. So, if you are willing to visit Thailand and want to apply for a Thailand visa from Dubai, you can visit the Akira Tourism website. Akira Tourism is a one-stop solution for all tourists planning to visit Thailand, consisting of multiple international visas for different destinations. For more information, visit: Akira Tourism.

Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.

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The Ultimate Guide to Thailand Travel on a budget

06 April 2023

Thailand is a traveler's paradise, with stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. As someone who has traveled to Thailand multiple times, I can attest that the country has something for everyone. In this guide to Thailand travel, I'll share my tips and advice for planning a trip to this beautiful country. From the best time to visit to must-see destinations, I'll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your Thailand travel experience.

Introduction to Thailand

Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. It's known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, delicious cuisine, and friendly people. Thailand is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, and it's easy to see why.

The capital city of Thailand is Bangkok, which is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant nightlife, delicious street food, and plenty of cultural attractions. Other popular destinations in Thailand include Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi, all of which offer a unique experience for travelers.

Best Time to Travel to Thailand

Thailand has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. The best time to visit Thailand depends on your travel preferences. If you're looking for the best weather, the dry season runs from November to February. This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

The wet season runs from May to October, and while it can be rainy and humid, it's also a great time to visit if you're on a budget. Hotel and flight prices are lower during the wet season, and there are fewer tourists, so you'll have more space to explore.

Planning Your Thailand Travel Itinerary

When planning your Thailand travel itinerary, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider how much time you have and what your travel priorities are. If you're short on time, focus on one or two destinations, but if you have more time, you can explore more of the country.

Second, research the different regions of Thailand and what they have to offer. For example, if you're interested in beaches and nightlife, Phuket and Koh Samui are great options. If you're more interested in culture and history, Chiang Mai and Ayutthaya are must-visit destinations.

Finally, plan your itinerary around the weather and the season. If you're traveling during the peak tourist season, book your accommodations and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.

Budget-Friendly Thailand Travel Tips

Thailand is a great destination for travelers on a budget. Here are some tips to help you save money during your trip:

Eat street food: Thai street food is delicious and affordable. You can find a variety of dishes for under $1.

Take local transportation: Taxis and private transportation can be expensive in Thailand. Instead, take public transportation like the skytrain or bus.

Stay in budget accommodations: Thailand has a variety of budget accommodations, including hostels and guesthouses. Do your research and book in advance to get the best prices.

Bargain at markets: Bargaining is a part of Thai culture, and you can often get a better price by negotiating at markets and street vendors.

Accommodations in Thailand

Thailand has a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles. If you're on a budget, hostels and guesthouses are a great option. Many hostels offer private rooms in addition to dorms. If you're looking for something more luxurious, Thailand has plenty of resorts and hotels, especially in popular tourist destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui.

Airbnb is also a popular option in Thailand, especially in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. You can find a variety of apartments and homes for rent at affordable prices.

Getting Around Thailand

Getting around Thailand is relatively easy, thanks to a well-developed transportation system. Bangkok has an extensive public transportation network, including the skytrain, subway, and buses. Tuk-tuks and taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive.

If you're traveling between cities, you can take buses or trains. There are also domestic flights available, but they can be more expensive than ground transportation.

Must-Visit Destinations in Thailand

Thailand has a wealth of beautiful destinations to explore. Here are some of the must-visit destinations:

Bangkok: The capital city of Thailand is a vibrant metropolis with a bustling nightlife, delicious street food, and plenty of cultural attractions.

Phuket: This beautiful island is known for its stunning beaches, clear water, and lively nightlife.

Chiang Mai: Located in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its ancient temples, beautiful scenery, and laid-back atmosphere.

Krabi: This province in southern Thailand is home to some of the country's most beautiful beaches and islands.

Ayutthaya: This ancient city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its impressive temples and ruins.

Experiencing Thai Culture and Cuisine

Thai culture is rich and diverse, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience it during your trip. Visit the many temples and historical sites throughout the country, attend a traditional Thai dance performance, or take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Thai cuisine.

Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh herbs and spices. Some must-try dishes include pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. You can find street food and restaurants serving Thai cuisine throughout the country.

Safety Tips for Traveling in Thailand

Thailand is a relatively safe country for travelers, but it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips:

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep your valuables in a secure place.

Use common sense when traveling at night and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.

Be cautious when taking taxis or tuk-tuks and make sure to agree on a price before getting in.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Thailand Travel Experience

Thailand is a beautiful and diverse country that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in beaches, culture, or food, you'll find plenty to explore during your trip. By following these tips and planning ahead, you can make the most of your Thailand travel experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to plan your Thailand travel adventure? Contact us for more information and to start planning your trip today.

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Thailand on a Budget: What you Need to Know

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

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

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.

Eating in thailand on a budget - noodles for 10 THB

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.

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!

Thai temples in bangkok are a good, budget-friendly option

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.

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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!

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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

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Nightlife in Thailand: Top Cities to Party & Visit in 2024!

Thailand is a country that thrives at night. Known for the bars and red-light districts, Thailand's nightlife cannot be missed while traveling. Explore your party options in this guide to nightlife in Thailand.

Do you know the best part about traveling to many beautiful cities? Getting ready to throw down! From Singapore to Vietnam , there's really a lot of nightlife to experience in Asia. You just have to know how to sniff it out. Or better still, you need someone like me to show you.

Today, I'll be your guide to Thailand's nightlife, so get ready for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned world traveler, digital nomad, or backpacker looking to party it up on your next big adventure—this Southeast Asian gem sure knows how to show off its vibrancy.

From the pristine beaches and dynamic cuisine, there's no shortage of things that will leave you feeling truly blessed. But if nightlife is top of mind when planning your trip, then I gotcha covered with this pick-me-up full of all the juicy stuff!

Where to Party in Thailand

Thailand's nightlife scene is one of the country's biggest draws, attracting travelers worldwide. With its numerous party locations, vibrant bars, and nightclubs, it's no surprise that Thailand is a popular tourist destination.

Thailand has a lot of party destinations, depending on your preference. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Bangkok is the spot for living it up and having a wild night! With an endless variety of bars, clubs, and hot spots, you've got enough to keep you busy for a while. Khao San Road and RCA reign supreme over other areas.

But if you're in the mood to get fancy, kick off your shoes at one of Bangkok's swanky rooftop joints. Nothing beats sippin' drinks with lovely city views in sight.

Pattaya is famous for its lively and vibrant nightlife, with various tourist entertainment options. The city is home to many bars, nightclubs, and go-go clubs, with many establishments staying open long after sunrise.

Enjoy live music, cabaret shows, and cultural performances in Pattaya. Don't forget to grab some post-party street food and drinks sold by nearby vendors!

Phuket is a popular beach destination in Thailand with a vibrant nightlife scene. Patong Beach is the most popular party spot in the area, with numerous bars and nightclubs lining the street.

Koh Phangan

Party animals, rejoice! Koh Phagan is the place for some of the world's wildest beachside bashes. It hosts a legendary Full Moon Party every month that brings in thousands of global revelers.

But if you'd rather something more low-key, there are plenty of other options, like Half and Black Moon Parties.

Koh Samui is another popular beach destination in Thailand with a vibrant nightlife scene. The most popular party spot on the island is Chaweng Beach, where you can find numerous bars and nightclubs.

Chiang Mai is a city in northern Thailand known for its temples and natural attractions. However, it also has a growing nightlife scene, with numerous bars and nightclubs in the Nimmanhaemin area. Consider going on a bar-hopping tour with a local.

Thailand Nightlife Vibe

Thailand's nightlife scene is diverse, depending on the destination. You can expect to hit chic bars and clubs in Bangkok for an upscale evening out. Just check their dress code before showing up! For something more casual, hang with locals in islands or beach towns where it's more chill.

Thailand Nightlife Q&A

Q: What is the legal drinking age in Thailand?

A: The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old. However, it is common for underage drinking to occur, especially in tourist areas.

Q: Is it safe to drink tap water in Thailand?

A: Drinking tap water in Thailand is not recommended, as it may contain harmful bacteria. It's best to drink bottled water or filtered water.

Q: Is it safe for solo female travelers to go out at night in Thailand?

A: Thailand is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it's always fair to exercise caution when going out at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid going out alone.

Thailand Hookup Culture

Thailand is world-famous for its sex tourism industry, which is even more apparent in tourist hotspots. If you're looking to experience the red light districts of Thailand, there's numerous opportunities in popular streets like Soi Cowboy & Nana Plaza.

It's important to note that Thailand's prostitution, while prevalent, historically, and culturally rooted, is still illegal .

That said, if you're still looking to visit and experience the red light districts for yourself, make sure to practice safe sex and wear protection!

Thailand Nightlife Tips

Be aware of your surroundings and practice caution when going out at night.
Drink responsibly and stay hydrated.
Avoid getting into altercations or confrontations with locals, as this can escalate quickly.
Respect Thai culture and customs, especially in temples and other religious sites.
Negotiate prices before purchasing anything, especially in markets and street vendors.
Use reputable transportation options like taxis and tuk-tuks, and avoid riding in unmarked vehicles.
Bring cash with you, as some establishments may not accept credit cards.
Be wary of scams and tourist traps, such as overly expensive tours or fake goods.
Have fun, but always stay safe and make responsible choices.

Best Spots for Parties in Thailand

Khao San Road is the heart of Bangkok's bustling night scene. Whether you're looking for a wild party, cheap beers, or live music - this street has it all. At Khao San Road, soak up the lively atmosphere and let loose with locals late into the night.

RCA is the place to be if you want an unforgettable night out in Bangkok. Here's where all the fun starts, with various clubs and live music venues blasting every beat from EDM to hip-hop. Get ready to get your groove on as you dance 'til daylight at this ultra-hot spot!

Sky Bar provides a memorable experience, ensuring all guests look sharp with its posh smart-casual dress code. Soar to the 63rd floor of Bangkok's famous Lebua State Tower, and you'll find yourself in one serious spot.

Whether sipping on a high-end cocktail or just taking in those picturesque views, Nowhere else can offer these highly sophisticated rooftop vibes!

Soi Cowboy is Bangkok's 24/7 party central. This red-light district lights the night sky with neon signs advertising everything from wild live music to tantalizing go-go dancers. If you're looking for a truly unique and daring evening, Soi Cowboy should be your first stop!

The Full Moon Party is a famous party on the island of Koh Phangan once a month. This all-night beach party features live music, fire shows, and a carnival-like atmosphere, attracting thousands of monthly tourists.

Patong Beach is a popular tourist destination in Phuket known for its vibrant nightlife. Here, you can find various bars and nightclubs that offer everything from live music to go-go dancers, making it a popular destination for partygoers.

The Maya Music Festival is back, so get your glowsticks ready! Every year, this epic 2 day EDM extravaganza rocks Pattaya. Here's your chance to experience some of the biggest names in electronic music and party with thousands of fellow beat freaks from around the globe. It'll be lit for sure!

Looking to get your party on in Phuket? Look no further than the Sugar Club . Where else can you find top-notch DJs, fancy cocktails, and a dress code that calls for baller outfits? For those looking for an upscale nightlife experience with VIP tables, this club definitely delivers!

The Beach Club is a popular nightclub in Koh Samui known for its beachfront location and stunning ocean views. There's a laid-back atmosphere, live music, cocktails, and drinks!

Plan with Pilot!

Looking to plan your perfect trip to Thailand's nightlife scene? I recommend using Pilot to plan your trip.

With Pilot, you can make the most of your Thailand nightlife experience and create memories that'll last a lifetime. Start planning your dream trip today!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Related Travel Guides

Full Moon Party Thailand 2023: Koh Phangan Full Guide!

10 Best Things to do in Pattaya [2024]: Experience it all!

Vietnam Nightlife [2024]: Night Owl's Guide to Vietnam!

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Thailand Trip Cost: 10 Days In Thailand On A Budget

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 20, 2023

Categories Thailand

Thailand-budget-travel-tips-lotte-travels.com

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.

Curious to know how much it costs to travel around Thailand? We spent €60/$67 on an average day as a couple (€30/$34 per person). Check out this more details of this budget breakdown (costs for accommodation, transport, food & drinks and activities) on Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog. #Thailand #TravelBudget #TravelTips

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.

bangkok-to-koh-samui-by-train-phenomenalglobe.com

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 .

ang-thong-national-park-phenomenalglobe.com

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.

intercontinental-resort-koh-samui-phenomenalglobe.com_

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

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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.

Categories > Guides and Tips

Thailand Travel Costs: Tips for a Budget-Savvy Holiday Trip

Cost of Visiting Thailand during Holidays

Tips for saving money in thailand during holiday season, faqs about holiday trip costs in thailand.

Thailand is a popular holiday destination for budget-conscious travellers, offering a diverse range of experiences without breaking the bank.

With some careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a memorable holiday in Thailand without overspending. But how can you do that, exactly?

To have a budget-savvy holiday trip in Thailand, stay in budget accommodations, eat at local food stalls, use public transportation, and opt for free or low-cost activities like temple visits and outdoor adventures.

Don’t forget to negotiate prices, and always have cash on hand for better deals.

To help you plan more for a budget-savvy trip, we’ve put together some tips for cutting costs on accommodations, transportation, food, and activities.

Read on to find out more!

Cost of Visiting Thailand during Holidays

The cost of travelling to Thailand during the holiday season can vary depending on several factors.

Here’s what you need to know to budget for your trip.

Flight Costs to Thailand during Holiday Season

Thailand is a popular tourist destination all year round, but the holiday season is especially busy with tourists flocking to the country to experience its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant culture.

As a result, flight costs during the holiday season can be quite expensive, and it’s important to plan ahead to get the best deal.

Accommodation Costs to Thailand during Holiday Season

Spending on accommodations is another essential expense when you’re planning a holiday trip anywhere, of course. So, how much should you prepare for this when you’re vacationing in Thailand?

Well, it all depends on where you’re planning to stay and what kind of place you’re looking for. But no worries, I got you covered!

Here’s a quick rundown of accommodation costs in Thailand during the holiday season:

Hostels are perfect for solo travellers or backpackers who want to meet other travellers and save money on accommodation costs.

Plus, hostels often have common areas and activities, making them a great choice for socialising with other travellers during the holiday season.

Image source: iStock

Airbnb is a great option for travellers who want to experience local life in Thailand.

Staying in an Airbnb allows travellers to have a more authentic experience, as they can interact with locals and explore the area on their own terms.

Hotels are great for travellers who want convenience and comfort during their holiday in Thailand. They are available in all price ranges, from budget to luxury, and offer various amenities such as pools, restaurants, and gyms.

Beach Bungalows

Beach bungalows are perfect for travellers who want a unique and relaxing experience during their holiday in Thailand. These accommodations offer a more natural and tranquil setting, with many located right on the beach.

Plus, beach bungalows are a great choice for those who want to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Thailand’s beaches.

Villas can be a great option for those looking for luxurious and private accommodation during their holiday in Thailand. With ample space, top-notch amenities, and stunning views, villas can provide the ultimate holiday experience.

They are particularly suitable for those travelling in a group or with family, as they offer privacy, space, and flexibility.

While they may be more expensive than other types of accommodations, they offer a unique and exclusive experience that is well worth the cost.

Some of the features of villas may include private pools, spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and personalised services.

Cost of Food in Thailand during Holiday Season

During the holiday season, food prices can be a bit different depending on the location and type of restaurant you visit.

Check out this quick rundown of the cost of food in Thailand during the holiday season:

Street food: Street food is the heart and soul of Thailand’s food scene. During the holiday season, you can find a wide variety of street food options. Some popular street food dishes include Pad Thai, Som Tam (papaya salad), and Khao Soi (curry noodles).

Local restaurants: Local restaurants are a great option for budget-conscious travellers looking for a sit-down meal. Some famous local dishes include Tom Yum soup, Green Thai Curry , and Massaman Curry.

International restaurants: Thailand has a diverse culinary scene, with many international restaurants offering a range of cuisines. You can spot international cuisines in Thailand including Japanese , Italian, and Mexican.

Fine dining: For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Thailand has a range of fine dining options available. We recommend checking out Gaggan, Bo.lan, and Nahm for fine dining restaurants in Thailand.

Cost of Transportation in Thailand during Holiday Season

While travelling to Thailand during the holiday season can be exciting, it’s important to be prepared for the potential challenges that come with it, especially when riding public transportations.

Trains can be crowded, and the hot and humid weather or sudden rain can make it uncomfortable. It’s also important to be wary of scams when taking taxis or tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis can be risky.

Finally, songthaews may take some time to get used to. However, with proper preparation, you can navigate through the transportation options with ease.

Now, to give you a quick rundown of the transportation costs, here’s a quick list of what you should expect when travelling around Thailand during the holidays.

Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Thailand, especially for short distances.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most cities in Thailand and are a more comfortable and convenient option than tuk-tuks.
Grab: Grab is a ride-hailing app available in Thailand that is similar to Uber or Lyft in other countries. It offers a convenient and affordable option for getting around cities. The cost of a Grab ride varies depending on the distance but is generally cheaper than taxis.
Public Transportation: Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is available in most major cities in Thailand. It is the cheapest option for getting around but can be crowded and less convenient.

Budget for Holiday Activities and Entertainment in Thailand

Thailand is such an amazing country, with so many things to do and see, especially during the holiday season.

Whether you want to explore temples, go shopping in local markets, chill out on the beach, or go for a hike in the mountains, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Of course, it’s important to keep in mind your budget when planning your activities and entertainment.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular options and how much you might expect to spend:

Temple visits: Thailand is known for its beautiful temples, and visiting them is a must-do activity for many travellers.
Outdoor activities: Thailand has plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, such as hiking, snorkelling, and kayaking. The cost of these activities varies depending on the location and operator.
Nightlife: For a vibrant nightlife scene, Thailand won’t disappoint you especially in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya. Prices for drinks and entrance fees vary depending on the establishment.
Beach activities: Thailand is famous for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy such as swimming, sunbathing, and renting water sports equipment like kayaks and paddleboards.
Cultural shows: For a glimpse into traditional Thai culture, consider attending a cultural show like a traditional dance or puppet show.

Tips for Saving Money in Thailand during Holiday Season

If you’re looking to maximise your budget while still having a memorable holiday experience in Thailand, you’re in luck!

We’ve compiled some tips to help you save money during the holiday season.

Stay in budget accommodations: While Thailand has many luxury hotels and resorts, you can find plenty of budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses.
Eat like a local: Thailand is known for its delicious street food, which is not only tasty but also affordable. Eating at local food markets and street stalls can save you money compared to dining at restaurants.
Use public transportation: Taxis and private transportation can be expensive in Thailand, especially during the holiday season. Consider using public transportation such as buses and trains to save money on transportation.
Bargain for goods and services: Bargaining is a common practice in Thailand, especially in markets and street stalls. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices for goods and services to get the best deals.
Book activities in advance: Booking activities and tours in advance can often save you money compared to booking them on the spot. Look for deals and discounts online before your trip.
Avoid tourist traps : Some tourist attractions and activities in Thailand can be overpriced and not worth the cost. Do your research before visiting attractions and avoid tourist traps to save money.

The cost of a holiday in Thailand can vary greatly depending on factors such as the time of year, the type of accommodation you choose, and your preferred activities and entertainment. A budget traveller could expect to spend around 1,000 THB to 1,500 THB per day on food, accommodation, and transportation, while a more luxury-oriented traveller could spend upwards of 5,000 THB per day.

The amount of money you’ll need for seven days in Thailand will depend on your travel style and itinerary. As a rough estimate, budget travellers could expect to spend around 6,000 THB to 10,000 THB for seven days, while those looking for a more luxurious experience could spend upwards of 34,000 THB.

As a rough estimate, budget travellers could expect to spend around 10,000 THB to 17,000 THB for 10 days, while those looking for a more luxurious experience could spend upwards of 67,000 THB.

10,000 THB (around $300 USD) for 5 days in Thailand could be sufficient for a budget traveller if they plan to stay in hostels, eat at street food stalls, and use public transportation. However, those looking for a more comfortable experience with mid-range hotels and restaurants could require a budget of around 15,000 to 20,000 THB ($450-600 USD) for 5 days.

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This is how you visit Bangkok on a budget

Apr 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Bangkok's excellent street food and markets are a great way to eat well on a budget © Witthaya Prasongsin / Getty Images

Bangkok has an enduring allure to global visitors that never seems to get old or go out of style – it continues to fight for its spot on lists of the world's most visited cities.

From hallowed monasteries to all-night techno clubs, street noodles to Michelin-starred tasting menus, and lush public parks to gritty urban train loops, Thailand's capital will leave you dizzy with options and a never-ending list of reasons to return.

That admirable versatility creates an extreme range of costs, reflecting differing income levels and social strata amongst both locals and international visitors. The City of Angels can be a gift to budget travelers if you know where to cut corners but costs can quickly spiral if you go off script. Here are all the insider tips you need to ensure your trip to Bangkok doesn't break the bank.

Daily Costs in Bangkok

Hostel dorm bed: 250-400B
Basic room for two: 800-1500B
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 800-2500B
MRT subway ticket: 15-40B
City bus: 8-25B
Canal boat: 8-20B
Motorcycle taxi: 15-100B
Car taxi: 45-200B
Coffee: 30-120B
Local Thai dinner of four dishes for two: 350-500B
Bottle of domestic beer in a shop: 41-55B
Bottle of domestic/imported beer at a bar or restaurant: 150-250B/200-270B
Glass of wine in a bar or restaurant: 150-300B

Average daily cost: 1800-2800B

Man wearing a backpack looking at a map on a busy street in Bangkok

Time your visit well

For maximum savings, avoid travel during peak season if at all possible. High season in Bangkok extends from mid-November to early March, when hotels, hostels and guesthouses enjoy high occupancy and charge full rates. It gets even more expensive the week before Christmas through the week after New Year's – some accommodation providers add temporary surcharges of 25 to 35 percent to their peak season rates.

Room rates tend to run significantly lower at other times of the year, with the best deals typically offered in June, July, September and October. Find out more about big events in Bangkok and what you can expect each season in our insider guide to the best times to visit .

Choose local budget airlines

Two airlines based in Thailand – Nok Air and Thai AirAsia – almost always offer lower domestic fares than those posted by national carrier Thai Airways and boutique-marketed Bangkok Airways. It also pays to travel lightly – eligible carry-ons can be taken aboard for free, while checked luggage costs 300B and up for 15kg (Thai AirAsia) or 20 kg (Nok Air). If you can't resist traveling without your home comforts, book your checked baggage in advance to save cash. Start planning early to nab the cheapest fares and choose off-season bargains to save big and stretch your budget.

Opt for a cold beer over cocktails

Wine and spirits, whether imported or produced in Thailand, are subject to high taxes – as much as 400% for imported wine. Just one bottle of wine can double or triple your restaurant tab – a night out in Bangkok that focuses on cocktails and cabernet can often cost the same as one in a European or US city. Beer, which is subject to a much lower tax rate, will bring your restaurant and bar bills down to more affordable levels.

Domestic beers such as Singha, Chang and Leo cost about 30-40% less than imported beers. International brands that are brewed in Thailand under license, such as Heineken San Miguel and Tiger, are priced in between domestic and imported beers. Thai craft beers, including such well-known brands as Chalawan, Chatri and Busaba, aren’t actually brewed in Thailand but in neighboring countries Cambodia and Vietnam, as well as in Australia; they tend to be priced similarly to imported beers.

Asian family enjoy eating food on street food restaurant with crowd of people at Yaowarat road, Bangkok

Eat like a local

The dining scene in Bangkok has exploded over the last decade. Enterprising chefs from all over the world, along with practically every global culinary franchise, have moved in with a vengeance. At last count the city boasted 30 Michelin-starred chefs, elevating Bangkok to world-class levels for fine dining. Although these tasty delights are wonderful for a big occasional blowout, they're not a nightly option for those visiting on a budget.

Luckily, Bangkok is known for its incredible street food culture and the streets are where you'll find the best bargains. It’s also where you’ll find the most authentically Thai and Thai-Chinese cuisine, arguably representing the real heart and soul of the city. Bangkok street food includes not only umbrella-shaded carts parked at the edge of the road or on footpaths but also one-room eateries in modest shophouses throughout the city.

You'll find the pick of such culinary gems in Talat Noi, Chinatown, Suan Phlu, Phra Nakhon and Banglamphu and also in lesser numbers sprinkled about every precinct of the city. Multiple-course, family-style meals are very affordable; for tighter budgets, stick to one-plate dishes where rice is included in the order.

Embrace public transport

Taxi fares are relatively low compared to many other major global cities, but they can still eat up your daily budget quickly. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway lines are much better budget options than taxis and you won't waste time sitting in traffic jams. The networks are quite extensive and you can reach just about any corner of the city using one or the other.

Travel cards are available for both modes of transport, but there are no discounts available and you’ll have to pay a deposit for the card. For short visits, it’s better to buy separate tickets at the station. MRT offers a 50% discount for seniors (over 60 years of age) for all fares, and you don’t have to be a Thai citizen to take advantage of the discount – just show your passport at the ticket window. A 50% discount is also available on MRT for children who are under 120cm (3.9ft) tall and aged under 14. BTS doesn’t offer senior or child fares for foreigners.

City bus fares are even cheaper than rail or subway fares, but the huge network (with over 500 separate routes) is complicated and the buses tend to be slow and relatively uncomfortable. Canal boat lines are similarly cheap but much easier to figure out. Boats run frequently in daylight hours along Khlong Saen Saep across the city from west to east, and they’re especially useful for passengers visiting attractions along the lengthy Sukhumvit Road. Hop on a motorcycle taxi from the canal jetties to get there quickly.

The Chao Phraya River Express line operates passenger boats up and down the Chao Phraya River, stopping at piers on both sides along the way for fares of between 14 to 33B. There's also a Chao Phraya Tourist Boat hop-on-hop-off service that departs every 30 minutes from 11 piers between Sathorn Pier and Phra Arthit Pier. A ticket costs 150B and includes unlimited stops along the route for one day, running from Sathorn to Phra Arthit between 9am and 7:15pm and from Phra Arthit to Sathorn between 8am and 6:30pm.

A young woman holding a map and smiling on a busy street in Bangkok, Thailand

Stay outside the tourist hub

Generally speaking, restaurants and accommodations along or near Sukhumvit Rd from Soi 1 and as far east as Soi 65 tend to be more expensive than elsewhere in the city. The concentration of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, speakeasies, and massage shops in this district is significantly higher here than in any other area in Bangkok but you'll pay for the privilege.

Go beyond the tourist hub to find bargains in Talat Noi, Chinatown and Phra Nakhon (sometimes referred to as Old Town), three contiguous neighborhoods extending from Charoen Krung Rd parallel to the Chao Phraya River and then north to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. Amidst the most historic buildings and temples in the city, there are dozens of budget hostels and guesthouses, along with small eateries and street vendors offering some of the best and most authentic Thai and Chinese cooking in the city. All for less than half the price you'd pay around Sukhumvit Rd.

The districts around Sathon and Silom Rds are a little more expensive than their Old Town neighbors but tend to be more colorful, culturally engaging and affordable than the Sukhumvit area. Towards the north end of the city, the Ari neighborhood is similarly mid-level when it comes to budget but has a more authentic Thai community vibe.

Save on sightseeing with a GetYourGuide City Card

GetYourGuide City Cards offer an all-inclusive pass good for 30+ attractions for two to five days, starting from 4500B. The card includes walking and bike tours, river cruises, cooking classes, massages, pub crawls, and a few museum entries, but not temple entry fees. Make a shortlist of your must-visit highlights to ensure you get maximum bang for your baht before booking. Why not start with our favorite 17 things to do in Bangkok ?

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Phuket Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Iconic towering limestone formations over the water in Phuket, Thailand

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!

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

Giant white Buddha statue in Phuket, Thailand

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

People lounging on a sandy beach in Phuket, Thailand

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

Stately yellow building with a terracotta roof in the jungle of Phuket, Thailand

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

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Home » Asia » Thailand » Your Ultimate Thailand Trip Cost – Thailand on a Budget – 50 Days for less than $ 900

Your Ultimate Thailand Trip Cost – Thailand on a Budget – 50 Days for less than $ 900

Thailand is an amazing country and one of the most popular backpacker destinations worldwide. It’s known as the land of smiles for a reason. With its paradise-like beaches and natural outstanding natural beauty, one might think it was an extraordinary expensive country to travel to. But that is wrong!

Thailand can be absolutely affordable if you keep some things in mind while booking and traveling. That’s why you can learn here how to travel Thailand on a budget. But first, let me show you our Thailand trip cost for 49 days that we traveled through this beautiful country.

Since the prices can differ a lot whether you are traveling in the North or in the South of Thailand, I differentiate between the expenses for each of them.

What to find out in this post

1 What does a trip to Thailand cost?
2.1 In the North (30 days)
2.2 In the South (19 days)
2.3 Thailand Vacation Costs in the North in 30 days
2.4 Thailand Travel Costs in the South in 19 Days
2.5 Expenses in the North of Thailand per Day (30 days)
2.6 Expenses in the South of Thailand per day (19 days)
3 Thailand Prices – What costs what?
4 How to save a lot of money during your Thailand travel?
5 Your first time in Thailand?
6.2 Tuk Tuk and Taxi
6.3 Tuk-Tuk
6.4 Bargain correctly
6.6 Use Grab
6.7 Taking the train in Thailand
7 Taking an airplane in Thailand
8.1 Avoid Tourist restaurants
8.2 Street food
8.3 Food on the islands simply costs more
9.1 Or how about not spending money on the water at all?
10 Entries & Activities
11.1 Should you book in advance?
11.2 Too risky?
14 Sim card

What does a trip to Thailand cost?

The average traveler spends about $ 63 per day during their trip through Thailand. Backpackers and travelers with smaller budgets come to about $ 25 -30 per day . We spent during our trip even only about $ 17.5 a day per person (of which $ 18.04 in the north and $ 17.92 in the south of Thailand).

Our personal Thailand Trip Cost (49 days)

Author’s note: All the given prices below have been paid in the main currency of the given country (Thai-Baht). The prices only have been converted into Euro and US-Dollar for better understanding. Any discrepancies may result from rounding and converting.

Total : 750,37 €/ $ 869,43 per person

In the North (30 days)

466,98 €/ $ 541,07

In the South (19 days)

283,39 €/ $ 328,35

Thailand Vacation Costs in the North in 30 days

Transport : 199,34 €/ $ 230,97 Breakfast : 32,40 €/ $ 37,54 Lunch : 33,01 €/ $ 38,25 Dinner : 43,68 €/ $ 50,61 Water : 5,43 €/ $ 6,29 Entries & Activity : 79,38 €/ $ 91,38 Random : 42,02 €/ $ 48,69 Accommodation : 111,17 €/ $ 128,81

Thailand Travel Costs in the South in 19 Days

Transport : 64,04 €/ $ 74,20 Breakfast : 20,75 €/ $ 24,04 Lunch : 25,24 €/ $ 29,24 Dinner : 27,42 €/ $ 31,77 Water : 2,27 €/ $ 2,63 Entries & Activity 23,47 €/ $ 27,19 Random : 17,27 €/ $ 20,01 Accommodation : 98,22 €/ $ 113,80

Expenses in the North of Thailand per Day (30 days)

Total : 15,57 €/ $ 18,04

Transport : 3,98 €/ $ 4,61 Breakfast : 1,08 € / $ 1,25 Lunch : 1,10 €/ $ 1,27 Dinner : 1,46 €/ $ 1,69 Water : 0,18 €/ $ 0,21 Entries & Activity : 2,65 €/ $ 3,07 Random : 1,40 €/ $ 1,62 Accommodation : 3,71 €/ $ 4,30

Expenses in the South of Thailand per day (19 days)

Total : 14.92 €/ $ 17.29

Transport* : 3.37 €/ $ 3.90 Breakfast : 1.10 €/ $ 1.27 Lunch : 1.33 €/ $ 1.54 Dinner : 1.44 €/ $ 1.67 Water : 0.12 €/ $ 0.14 Entries & Activity : 1.24 €/ $ 1.47 Random : 0.91 €/ $ 1.05 Accommodation : 5.17 €/ $ 5.99

*Transport in the South of Thailand is actually more expensive than in the North as you often move by boat. We spent less, simply for the fact that we haven’t been moving a lot. You will most probably find yourself spending more on the islands, especially if you plan to do scuba diving in Thailand .

Thailand Prices – What costs what?

Budget-Accommodation (Private Double room for 2) ab ca. $ 7/6 € per night
Budget-Accommodation (Bed in dorm): from $ 4/ 3.5 € per night
A meal in a cheap Restaurant: ca. $ 1.8 /1.5 €
Menu for 2 in a good Restaurant: ca. $ 18 – 25/15 – 20 €
1,5 Liter Water in the Supermarkt: ca. $ 0.6/ 0.5 €
Bottle of wine in the Convenience Store: from $ 4.8/ 4 €
0,5 l bottle local beer in Restaurant: ca. $ 1.8 – 2.5/ 1,50 – 2 €
0,5 l bottle local beer in the Supermarket: ca. $ 1.8/ 1,50 €
Eine Portion Pad Thai: from $ 1.6/ 1,30 €
Thai Massage (1 hour): ca. $ 7/ 6 €

How to save a lot of money during your Thailand travel?

As always, our most important rule is, we want to save money but don’t miss any experiences. That may sound ambiguous, but let me tell you, actually it is not even that difficult. In the following lines, you can get to know how we did it and how you can do it as well.

Your first time in Thailand?

Everything you need to know before visiting the land of smile you can find in our comprehensive Thailand Travel tips Guide here .

Probably the easiest and fastest way to travel around Thailand is the bus. You can usually choose between different companies, that often differ regarding standards and prices. If you want to save some money you might wanna think twice about whether you really need the VIP Bus or maybe the 2nd class will do it as well.

For long trips (e.g. Bangkok/Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai) it is worth it to spend a couple of dollars more for the VIP bus or any other that offers more space per person. This way you can sleep better.

Just make sure to catch the night bus as you will also save money by not having to pay for accommodation for that night.

Tuk Tuk and Taxi

If you want to spend less money on your Tuk-Tuk-ride, make sure to bargain before your trip. It might also be helpful to check in your accommodation beforehand what the usual fare for this route is.

Bargain correctly

Bargaining is not that hard if you understand how it works.

Start with a price that is less than what you are actually willing to pay for the service/product.

Ideally, the driver agrees immediately. (If it is that easy though, usually there is something wrong with that price).

Most probably though, he will give you another price that is way higher than the one you just mentioned. And also most probably, it is also higher than what he will actually expect you to pay.

So keep on going like that until you meet in the middle. Hopefully, at a rate that you are both happy with.

The most important rule when taking a taxi in Thailand: No Taximeter – No ride! If the taxi driver is refusing to use the taximeter the chances are high that he will completely overcharge you. Overcharging tourists, especially right after arriving in the country is one of the most common scams in Thailand.

So, if the driver doesn’t put the taximeter just keep walking to the next taxi. There will definitely be a driver to agree with you on using the taximeter. (Because actually, they have to use it by law)

By the way, the most common excuse is “Sorry, the taximeter is broken”. Don’t trust it!

The easiest way to avoid getting scammed or overcharged on your taxi ride is using Grab. As the prices are fixed, you cannot get overcharged. Also, usually, there are many discount codes which can save you some $. In Chiang Mai, we even had a ride for free. The only drawback while using Grab is that you need a working internet connection.

Taking the train in Thailand

Some train rides in Thailand are even cheaper than taking the bus. Train rides can even get you nearer to Thailand’s locals.

However, you should keep in mind that the trains in Thailand usually don’t meet Western standards and can be extremely slow. Therefore, often it might be faster to take a bus anyway.

Taking an airplane in Thailand

If you want to go from the North to the South of Thailand, the buses can take ages. If you don’t have much time, you can take an airplane from A to B.

But don’t worry, many Low-Cost Airlines are operating within Thailand, so you don’t have to exceed your Budget for Thailand. And since you came here to learn how to travel in Thailand on a budget I also have a simple option for you to find amazing flight deals: Skyscanner . With Skyscanner, you can compare flights of hundreds of companies to be sure to find the best flight for you.

Food Thailand I Yummy I Thailand I Südostasien I Southeastasia I Dish

If you keep the following two aspects in mind you can eat super cheap (and tasty!) in Thailand.

Avoid Tourist restaurants

If you walk around tourist areas, such as Khao San Road in Bangkok, you might realize that the prices are often much higher than in other areas.

Usually, it is already enough to walk one or two blocks away from the tourist area in order to find food at reasonable prices again.

Even if you are not a fan of street food, you can find restaurants that offer the same quality such as the ones made for tourists. (Sometimes even better!)

Usually, you can find the menus in front of the door, so you don’t even have to enter the restaurant if it doesn’t meet your price expectations.

Street food

If you want to save even more money and try authentic Thai dishes you should definitely give street food a try.

For everyone that is afraid of trying street food, I can just repeat myself: After more than 6 months in Asia, eating street food all the time, I have never been sick from it so far.

To find out whether street food is good, just have a look at the place. Are many locals eating there? Because usually, that means that they have made a good experience with this place in the past. Therefore, probably it won’t do you any harm either.

Food on the islands simply costs more

While traveling through different parts of Thailand you will realize that the prices will differ from place to place. While on the mainland there is almost always a place with super cheap food, on the islands it gets harder and harder to find such.

Basically, there are two simple reasons for this.

1. Less competition

Since you cannot just look for a cheaper option outside of the tourist area (Because on many islands, the whole island basically is a tourist area), you just have to stick with the higher prices.

2. Goods have to be imported from the mainland

To be fair, not only you but also the restaurants have to pay more for the ingredients. You will find that even in the supermarkets the prices on Thailand’s islands are usually higher than on the mainland. Especially fresh goods, such as milk, eggs, and yogurt are more pricey.

Staying hydrated is important, especially if you walk a lot during your Thailand trip. Unfortunately, there are not many ways to save money on water. (You cannot drink tap water in Thailand!).

Some accommodations let you refill your water bottle free of charge. That doesn’t only help your piggy bank but also the environment.

Usually, it is cheaper to buy big bottles (1,5 l) than small ones (0,5 l). Moreover, you can usually find offers for different water brands in 7/11. During our stay in North Thailand, we paid 20 Baht for 2 big bottles of water from one specific brand. (One bottle was 13 Baht)

Or how about not spending money on the water at all?

Yes, you have read correctly. There is a way to travel through Thailand without spending money on water. And no, of course, I don’t want you to die of thirst.

The trick? Tap water! Now you might probably think that you are not supposed to drink tap water in Thailand. That is absolutely correct! But there is a way to make this tap water drinkable. The solution is called a Lifestraw ! This amazingly practical invention disinfects and filters the tap water in order to make it drinkable. This way, you can save a lot of money and help the environment by not producing more plastic waste. Great, right?

Entries & Activities

Fütterung I Elefantencamp Chiang Mai I Sanctuary I Thailand I Elefant I vickiviaja

If you want to save money on entrance fees, there are not many options in Thailand.

Foreigners often pay double of what Thais are paying.

The only way to save money on entrance fees is to figure out beforehand, whether the entrance is really worth it.

Talk to other travelers, that have already been to this place, check this and other blogs, or check recommendations on TripAdvisor and Co.

Accommodation

Accommodations in Thailand can be usually super cheap if you don’t expect any luxury.

The prices in the north of the country are usually a little bit cheaper than in the South (on the islands).

Another thing, which can cause extreme price differences is the season that you are traveling in. During Raining Season rooms can cost less than half of what they cost during high season. Especially, on the islands, prices can vary a lot between the seasons. On one island, we even had a bungalow with fan, directly in the beach area, with access to the pool, for just around 10 Euro a night. (which is 5 Euro per Person)

Most of the time, it is cheaper per Person to take a private Doubleroom than sleeping in a dorm when traveling as a couple or group.

In Thailand, we had most of the time showers without access to hot water, as hot water showers, such as ACs, usually cost more.

You can see it can be quite easy to save money on accommodation when traveling in Thailand.

Should you book in advance?

Thailand is one of the backpacker’s favorite destinations. Therefore, there are many accommodations to choose from. You can check rooms and prices on-site to find the best deal. Usually, the prices are the same, whether you book online or walk by. (We even found places that were cheaper when booked with booking.com in advance.)

Especially family-friendly hotels in Thailand should be booked in advance to make sure you have a nice room for you and your kids.

If you are not a big fan of No risk no fun , you might wanna book your accommodations with booking.com in advance. If you already have a room upon arrival, it can also save you a lot of time spent walking from accommodation to accommodation.

The biggest enemy of our Thailand budget, are the fresh fruit juices, all the tasty fruits, ice cream, and those super yummy coconut cookies, that you should absolutely try when you are in Thailand.

Especially, when we reached the South of Thailand after spending one month in Myanmar, we just couldn’t resist anymore. 😉

Another big expenditure was sunscreen. It can get super expensive to pay for sunscreen in Thailand, especially if you want one that doesn’t include any kind of bleach or whitener. So better make sure to bring enough with you from home.

Alcoholic drinks are usually pretty cheap in Thailand.

Especially, in Bangkok and the islands, often it’s even cheaper to buy one of the famous buckets full of alcohol (e.g. with vodka) than having beers or wine.

That’s how we end up celebrating our anniversary with a bucket of Rum in Koh Phi Phi. 🙂

In Thailand, it is not absolutely necessary to have a sim card. In general, every accommodation provides free wifi. Often, especially during the rainy season, it happens that the connection breaks down for a while.

If you absolutely need to stay connected though, you can find cheap offers for sim cards.

Are you planning to travel to Thailand and want to know how much you should plan to spend there? Or do you just want to know how to save a lot of money while traveling #Thailand? Then this is the perfect article for you. Here you can find out how we visited Thailand for 50 days for just 750€.I #Budget #Travel #Southeastasia

6 thoughts on Your Ultimate Thailand Trip Cost – Thailand on a Budget – 50 Days for less than $ 900

Good tips, Vicki! I would like to add, though, that if you are a newbie to Thailand, I would stay away from the tuktuks pretty much altogether. They are notoriously well-known for over-charging and doing all kinds of scams to (newbie) tourists. It’s hard to bargain for the price if you don’t know the average fares. Nevertheless, I must admit that everyone should try tuktuk at least once because it’s so much fun!

Great tips – I love how dedicated you’ve been in noting everything down! But makes for a fantastic guide; thank you!

Oh man, I really need to get myself to Thailand. As a budget-conscious traveler, this place sounds like a dream land!

Wow, very detailed article about all your spendings. Great to see how much a trip like that actually costs! Thanks for sharing!

mai meter mai pai. (No meter no pay!) That’s what I was always told to say when I was living in Thailand. Lots of Taxi drivers don’t like longer journeys especially when it’s raining.

thank you so much for sharing this info with us 🙂

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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.

exploring koh lanta national park on thailand on a budget

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.

beautiful sunny palm tree days in thailand

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.

taking one of the trains in while backpacking thailand on a budget

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.

one of the many temples around chiang mai

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.

exploring ayutthaya while backpacking thailand

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!

enjoying the sunset in bangkok from one of the sky bars

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.

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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!

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.

Thailand On A Budget- 12 Important Things To Know

Even when visiting countries that are world-wide known as cheap travel destinations, you still need to make a plan and learn as much as you can about the costs related to the journey or you’ll find your money disappearing a lot faster than what you imagined! For example, a lot of travelers write about how cheap it is to travel in Thailand but there are still a lot of things you should know before visiting .

There are a lot of tourist traps, traveler scams, and tips and tricks about traveling to Thailand on a budget that you should be aware of. If you’re planning to visit Thailand soon and want to make the most out of your money, keep reading. This article will tell you everything you need to know! For starters, let’s see…

Just How Expensive Is Thailand?

This is a summary of the average costs related to traveling in Thailand. However, keep in mind that this is the average.

Accommodation for one person ฿1,018 ($32)

Accommodation for two people ฿2,035 ($65)

Food Three meals per day ฿958 ($31)

Water for one day ฿51 ($1.65)

Local Transport estimated weekly costs for local buses, subway, tuk-tuk, etc. ฿375 ($12)

Entertainment shows, events, etc. ฿543 ($18)

Tips and Handouts for one day ฿105 ($3.50)

Intercity Transportation average cost of transport between cities ฿966 ($31)

Scams, tourist traps, and mishaps ฿1,070 ($34.50)

Alcohol daily budget ฿220 ($7-8)

฿220 ($7-8) Millions of people visit Thailand every year and they come with a different purpose and different expectations . Some people want to enjoy luxury, others are backpacking , etc. So, for your trip to Thailand, you can spend more than this article suggests but it’s also completely possible to travel to Thailand for less. It depends on what you want to do.

And in the crazy place that is Thailand, you’ll often find luxury right next to budget . Dorm rooms & ‘Five Star’ hotels on the same street – with prices ranging from a few hundred a night to a few thousand a night. Luxury private tours and basic budget-friendly options are often sold by the same vendors! Things can quickly get confusing in ‘The Land of Smiles’!

However, despite this, it’s completely possible to experience Thailand with a limited budget and this article will show you how.

Finding Accommodation In Thailand On A Budget

One great way to save money on accommodation in Thailand is staying in hostels. Opting for hostels over hotels isn’t just for college kids backpacking across the country . Not only are they a less expensive, no-frills alternative (most hostels charge less than $3 per night), but they also help to lend a more authentic touch to your travels.

When you stay at a hostel, what you give up in amenities is paid back tenfold in opportunities to meet new people and effectively immerse yourself in the Thai culture. While a hostel is admittedly not as restful, it serves its purpose so you can focus your energy on getting the most out of your travels.

Most people think that traveling to Thailand on a budget is only possible if you share a room in a dorm with 15 other sweaty, snoring backpackers. However, that’s not the case. You can find a lot of private rooms for a price far less than the average $30 per room. There are budget hotels and guest houses that rent rooms for as little as $5 per night. Additionally, if you’re planning to stay in one place for longer , you can always bargain for a lower weekly/monthly rate.

What About Camping?

If you read some of my other budget travel articles, you know I always encourage people to go camping when traveling abroad . However, to be completely honest, camping in Thailand isn’t recommended. Firstly, because Thailand has a high population density and there aren’t that many good camping spots.

The camping spots that are available often charge campground fees that are sometimes even more expensive than hotels and finally, there are a lot of mosquitos around. If we add camping gear to the mix, you’ll see that the costs of camping will be unfeasible most of the time.

Looking for some Thailand travel inspiration? Check out our comparison between Bangkok and Chiang Mai and this list of hidden gems in Bangkok .

Finding The Cheapest Accommodation

Even though camping isn’t an option, there are some other ways to save money on accommodation in Thailand. Of course, one way of this is Couchsurfing but in this section, I’d like to address an option that not a lot of bloggers suggest; staying in monasteries. Thailand has hundreds of monasteries and temples spread across the country and most of them are open for visitors.

You don’t need to be Buddhist to stay in a Thai Monastery and you can get free accommodation and food, as long as you respect the rules of the monastery and perhaps help with a few chores.

Alternatively, another way to get free accommodation in Thailand is by using websites like Love Home Swaps.

Transportation In Thailand

Next on our guide to visiting Thailand on a budget are a few transportation tips. Thailand has a great tourist infrastructure and there are a lot of tours that can take you around the country. Even though this is a very convenient way to explore most of Thailand’s territory, costs can add up rather quickly. That means you’ll have to take care of your own transportation .

The first rule of thumb when organizing your transportation in Thailand is “never pre-book anything”. Don’t use any agencies or intermediaries but book your ticket by yourself on the bus/train station. The cheapest way to get around Thailand is traveling by train but not every city in Thailand has a railway. Buses, on the other hand, are a bit more expensive but go to every corner of Thailand.

A 12-hour train journey in the third class on a train costs between $6 and $8, while a ride for the same distance with a bus costs between $8 and $22, depending on which bus you’re taking.

If you want to travel with your vehicle, you can always rent a car . Sure, this gives you more flexibility, but if you ask me it just isn’t feasible if you’re planning to travel in Thailand on a budget; there are a lot of buses and trains that can take you practically anywhere for only a fraction of the price. If you’re traveling light, you can always rent a bike; this is probably the cheapest transportation option in Thailand.

However, if you decide to do this, be VERY careful, always wear a helmet, and make sure the bike you’re renting is prepared for the length of your journey. Renting a bike in Thailand is super easy and that’s one reason why there are so many bike accidents on the roads .

Cheap Dining In Thailand

I just can’t understand people who come to Thailand on all-inclusive arrangements. Don’t get me wrong, these arrangements are convenient, but in a country with such a rich street food scene, it’s like booking a flight to Venice that comes with a car rental. I’ve visited Thailand on several different occasions and with a different budget but despite my budget, street food is always my go-to choice.

I’ve learned (the hard way) that Western restaurants and continental food are often overpriced and not as tasty as you might think. Not a big surprise, considering that most of the ingredients to prepare these dishes need to be imported.

So, if you’re traveling to Thailand on a budget, I would suggest avoiding Western restaurants completely. Another great reason to go for street food is the fact that you can try several different dishes for only a few dollars. Even if you don’t like something, it’ll only cost you $1-$2. Much better than ordering a bad $20 meal at a restaurant, isn’t it?

What About Drinking And Partying?

Thailand is famous for its wild nightlife and fortunately, there are a few tricks about partying in Thailand without breaking the bank. First and foremost, avoid all trendy bars, clubs downtown, and rooftop bars. Most bars that don’t belong to the above-mentioned categories don’t need reservations and don’t charge entrance fees. However, alcohol is still a lot more expensive in bars compared to 7/11s.

For example, a beer in a bar can cost between $2 and $3.50 depending on where you are, but in a 7/11 store, you can get that same beer for $1.50. And that’s just beer. The price difference for whiskey and other hard liquors is even more drastic.

So, if you want to party in Thailand on a budget, it’s always a good idea to do some pre-drinking before going out.

When To Visit?

You can’t always control your schedule, but when possible, be mindful of the peak travel times. Prices will fluctuate and go up during the popular tourist season, which is typically December to March in Thailand. Oftentimes, it’s the weather that dictates the demand, so keep an eye on the weather forecast. Saving some money is not worth it if you’re stuck in your room the whole day during the monsoons.

How To Save Money While Traveling In Thailand

Get off of the beaten track . It’s simple, the further you are from the more touristy places, the lower the prices are. Overall, the towns in Northern Thailand are far cheaper than the Southern part of the country. Sure, you won’t find any beaches in this part of Thailand but you can learn a lot more about Thai culture and get a glimpse of authentic rural life away from the westernized cities and islands of the south.
If you want to book tours, do it after you arrive. Whether you want to go on a jungle trek, try scuba diving, or just want to take a cooking class, it’s best to book your tour after you arrive. Travel agencies are easy to find and you can always negotiate rates with them. A rule of thumb is the more you buy, the better discount you get. If you bring a few friends with you and book multiple packages from the same agency, you can always get a better deal.
Bargain, bargain, bargain. When you head to the local night markets , want to buy some souvenirs, or even take a tuk-tuk ride, you have to prepare to bargain. Never accept the first price a vendor/driver gives you unless you’re buying some fruits or street food. If you can, ask a local what are the prices for certain items before you go shopping. Finally, remember that bargaining hard doesn’t mean being a jerk.
Don’t get scammed. Some people end up spending a lot of their money on tourist scams. Don’t be one of them and make sure you’re informed before you go. I recently published an article about the most common scams in Southeast Asia . Make sure to check it out before you go. Talking about scams, you should also learn…

How Not To Waste Money At The ATM

ATMs in Thailand use DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion). DCC basically means the ATM converts the local currency to the currency you have on your card. However, this is something you can avoid. Every time you take out money from ATMs in Thailand there will be a small popup asking you if you want to continue with conversion or not.

Most people are in a rush and just click the OK button (placed on the center of the screen) every time they take out money without knowing that they can complete the transaction without conversion (by clicking the button in the corner).

How Much Money Do You Need For Your Trip To Thailand?

If we take the prices we mentioned at the beginning of this article, we’ll come to a daily budget of $70 per day. However, it all depends on what your expectations are and what you plan to do on this trip .

If you’re a backpacker and you plan to use mostly public transport and stay in hostels, you can survive with $25- $35 per day. With this budget, you can get a bed in a good dorm or an independent room without an AC in a budget hotel, you can afford a couple of drinks per day, eat food from street food stalls, and take a few tours here and there.

If you want to stay in nicer hotels and travel more comfortably (with flights or luxury buses), eat more seafood, and take more tours and activities, this is doable with a budget of $50-$60 per day.

Finally, if you want to stay in luxurious hotels, eat continental food, fly around the country, encounter some unique experiences and do more typical tourist things, prepare a budget of +$100 per day.

However, keep in mind that if you plan to spend more time on some of the islands in Southern Thailand, increase your daily budget as everything is more expensive there.

If you’re a backpacker and you plan to use mostly public transport and stay in hostels, you can survive with $25- $35 per day . * If you want to stay in nicer hotels and travel more comfortably (with flights or luxury buses), eat more seafood, and take more tours and activities, this is doable with a budget of $50-$60 per day . * If you want to stay in luxurious hotels, eat continental food, fly around the country, and do more typical tourist things, prepare a budget of +$100 per day .

Helpful Resources For Visiting Thailand On A Budget

If you need a cheap flight to Thailand, Qatar Airways has some great deals but this coupon can get you an additional 20% off on all flight bookings.

For cheap accommodation options in Thailand, use this Booking discount code and get 15% off. And if you need something more fancy, book three nights at all Radisson hotels in Thailand and get one free with this coupon .

Planning to rent a car in Thailand? Get 15% off on all car rentals in Thailand with my AutoEurope coupon .

To save on all bus, train, or ferry rides in Thailand, use 12goasia and save up to 15% (for more info check out our 12go Asia review here ).

Make sure to check whether you need a visa. And on IVisa you can not only check if you need a visa but also apply and get one for only $15 and 3-4 days.

And last but not least, use this SafetyWing discount code to get a great travel insurance deal.

Did you ever go to Thailand? How did you like our ultimate guide to visiting Thailand on a budget? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!

Like it? Pin it.

Sunday 12th of June 2022

I liked your coverage of Thailand in general. One thing I DID notice was there was no reference (that I found) that suggested that rail is a great way to travel between Chiang Mai and Bangkok - there are several means, an overnight train with sleeper, a “sprinter” which does the journey in much shorter time and is quite cheap and has catering. The Thai people overall are incredibly hospitable and willing to assist you with any problems.

Passport Symphony

Wednesday 24th of August 2022

Hi Rod, I believe we did touch on the train travel in this article. We didn't focus on the Bangko-Chiang Mai line but absolutely, sleeper trains are a very comfortable and easy way of getting between big cities.

Friday 23rd of August 2019

Wow awesome article. I have visited this two time last week I have visited for 5 day trip. Really enjoyed a lot in Thailand it is one the best country. Liked your blog I will follow for my next visit. Thanks for sharing

Monday 26th of August 2019

I am glad you liked it.

Blairvillanueva

Thursday 22nd of August 2019

Thailand is one of the best country in Asia that is best for tourism. When you opt to visit the cities, yes the prices are not cheap and that is expected. Visit the more rural areas and you will get value of your money, with good hospitality too. Be flexible, and not a fussy tourist coz locals hates it.

Can't agree with you more, everyone has a stigma for Thailand that it's a super cheap country which is so not true

Wow, this is such a helpful article. I am planning to visit Thailand soon and this will help a lot. Living in a monastery is something that I want to try. Having done that in India, I am sure it will be an equally good experience in Thailand. The tip on currency conversion is quite useful. Infact, I did the same thing on my last visit to Thailand. Now I know better!

I'm glad you could get some useful tips from this article, Amrita and I hope you have a great time in Thailand

Very helpful tips. I too agree with the tip on having local street food. I found them quite tasty. :P The tip on conversion of currency is useful. I have never tried hostels, but you have convinced me with your supporive arguments that I must try it.

Thanks, Indrani, I'm glad you got some useful tips from this article.

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How to Visit Thailand on a Budget: 6 Tips

Disclosure: Articles may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases (at no additional cost to you). See our full disclosure here .

Have you ever thought about taking a trip to Thailand? The country is filled with beautiful scenery, unique culture, fabulous food–and the list goes on. But if you’re worried about how much money it might cost you to make the dream come true, we’re here to help!

In this article, we’ll discuss six tips to help keep costs down while ensuring you have an unforgettable stay during your vacation to this amazing country.

How to Visit Thailand on a Budget

Research flights and book in advance.

Planning ahead when creating your Thailand itinerary is essential for ensuring an affordable and successful trip. With more and more people traveling abroad and fluctuations in airline ticket prices, you need to shop smart.

To ensure you get the best deals, start looking for tickets at least several months ahead of your departure date. You’ll also want to set up price notifications through airlines and flight brokers so you’re alerted to ticket price drops. ( Here’s one of our favorite airfare hacks that can help you score a great deal.)

Look for savings in the off season, but be sure to research the weather conditions. April to May are the hottest in the country, so if you don’t like extreme heat, these months are best avoided. Monsoon season, starting in July, and lasting about three months is the rainiest season.

Weather-wise, November to March is your best bet, but may be more expensive. One thing to remember though is that Thailand is a large country, so weather conditions will vary depending on which area you’re visiting.

Check out budget-friendly hotels

When it comes to finding budget-friendly accommodations in Thailand, you’re spoiled for choice! There are hostels, guest houses, homestays, hotels, and pet-sitting options–all significantly cheaper than luxury resort stays.

You can find Bangkok hostels for as little as $9 a night, which includes basic facilities like beds and showers. For those looking for something different, many guesthouses have private rooms with private bathrooms at very competitive prices.

Pet-sitting is also a great solution if you’re looking to really save money on your trip. You’ll get the chance to live like a local providing pet-sitting in exchange for a comfortable place to stay.

No matter what kind of accomodations you’re looking for, there are lots of affordable options in Thailand.

Street food is king

Exploring street food options is one of the most rewarding experiences while traveling in Thailand! Not only is it a great way to sample the delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank, but street food stands can be a great source of healthy foods like stir-fries and noodle soups.

It’s easy to find street food throughout Thailand–from street-side restaurants to street vendors, you’d be hard-pressed not to stumble upon some sort of street-food operation wherever you go.

Plus, compared to other types of eateries, street food is one of the cheapest sources for dining out in Thailand. A hearty bowl of noodles or some grilled skewers can each cost less than two US dollars–now that’s a steal!

Use public transportation

If you’re looking for ways to save money while exploring the country, using public transportation is a great place to start. Buses, tuk-tuks, and trains are all much more affordable options than renting a car or taking taxis.

Not only are buses incredibly cheap, but they will also get you almost anywhere in the country quickly and easily.

For shorter distances, tuk-tuks provide an inexpensive and fun way to take in your surroundings.

Finally, if you’re traveling between major cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, or looking for very affordable connections to popular destinations like Koh Samui, the local trains (and sometimes ferries) are definitely worth considering. They’re reliable and much cheaper than flying.

Don’t be afraid to haggle

When visiting markets in Thailand, don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors for lower prices!

It’s part of the culture and everyone is expected to bargain when shopping in the markets. Be friendly and confident when negotiating, and you’ll be surprised how much money you can save on souvenirs .

Just remember that bargaining isn’t only about getting a great discount–it’s also about forming relationships with locals. Be persistent but still kind, and if it doesn’t work out, try elsewhere.

Visit free and low-cost attractions

Exploring Thailand on a budget doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on the amazing attractions and experiences. Many of the temples, beaches, parks, markets, and other attractions in this beautiful country are free to visit–so why not take advantage?

If you’re looking for an educational experience or some tranquillity, try heading to one of the many temples where you can admire the intricate architecture and interesting artwork.

Or, if it’s sunshine and seaside vibes you’re after, soak up the sun at a Thai beach without spending a single baht!

The locals frequent these public places too, so you get a great cultural insight into their everyday lives.

Although Thailand is full of things that can cost you money, visiting free and low-cost attractions can be just as enjoyable (if not more so).

Thailand can be a truly amazing vacation destination and a great place to experience the culture, cuisine, and attractions of Southeast Asia for less. By following the tips we’ve outlined, you’ll be able to plan the trip of a lifetime without spending a fortune.

Also read: Flight Hack: How to Use the 24-Hour Rule to Save Big 6 Important Benefits to Look for When Choosing a Credit Card for Travel 10 Unique & Memorable Souvenir Ideas for Your Next Vacation

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15 Beautiful Asian Countries to Visit on a Budget

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

<p><span>Traveling in Asia can be a fantastic experience, rich in culture and natural beauty, and always a gastronomical delight. There are plenty of beautiful places to see and discover, delicious dishes, and things to do. Here are the best Asian countries to visit on a budget.</span></p>

Traveling in Asia can be a fantastic experience, rich in culture and natural beauty, and always a gastronomical delight. There are plenty of beautiful places to see and discover, delicious dishes, and things to do. Here are the best Asian countries to visit on a budget.

<p><span>Thailand is full of budget travelers, and it’s no wonder why. It has a lot to offer, such as beautiful scenery, amazing things to see and do, and great food, and travelers meet other backpackers here. Accommodation can be anything from low-budget hostels to budget-priced guesthouses for a little over $10. Walking down any street, you can find delicious street food (usually in front of 7 11 because it’s cheaper) for incredibly cheap, 10 – 30 bhat. </span></p>

Thailand is full of budget travelers, and it’s no wonder why. It has a lot to offer, such as beautiful scenery, amazing things to see and do, and great food, and travelers meet other backpackers here. Accommodation can be anything from low-budget hostels to budget-priced guesthouses for a little over $10. Walking down any street, you can find delicious street food (usually in front of 7 11 because it’s cheaper) for incredibly cheap, 10 – 30 bhat.

<p><span>Vietnam is known for its great food, natural landscapes, and rich history. Vietnam is also a popular place for people to visit because it is inexpensive. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, two of the biggest cities in Vietnam, are unique places to stay while in Vietnam. Hanoi is known as the “backpacking capital of the world,” here, you can find hostels for as little as $2 and a little more if you want your room; a cheap room is about $8. </span></p>

Vietnam is known for its great food, natural landscapes, and rich history. Vietnam is also a popular place for people to visit because it is inexpensive. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, two of the biggest cities in Vietnam, are unique places to stay while in Vietnam. Hanoi is known as the “backpacking capital of the world,” here, you can find hostels for as little as $2 and a little more if you want your room; a cheap room is about $8.

<p><span>Many tourists visit Cambodia to see the magnificent temples in the Angkor Wat temple complex. However, Cambodia offers a great deal more that will attract budget-conscious tourists. Budget hotels and guesthouses abound in significant cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, allowing backpackers and other budget-conscious travelers to keep their cash flow strong. </span></p>

Many tourists visit Cambodia to see the magnificent temples in the Angkor Wat temple complex. However, Cambodia offers a great deal more that will attract budget-conscious tourists. Budget hotels and guesthouses abound in significant cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, allowing backpackers and other budget-conscious travelers to keep their cash flow strong.

<p><span>Indonesia is a vast archipelago famous for its stunning beaches, beautiful jungles, and diverse culture. Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia for beginners on a budget. You will have no problem traveling the island on $20 a day—this covers accommodations and food and will leave you enough to buy a few beers! The street food is delicious and cheap as chips. Plus, most of the activities on the island are free or inexpensive, so you have plenty to do! </span></p>

Indonesia is a vast archipelago famous for its stunning beaches, beautiful jungles, and diverse culture. Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia for beginners on a budget. You will have no problem traveling the island on $20 a day—this covers accommodations and food and will leave you enough to buy a few beers! The street food is delicious and cheap as chips. Plus, most of the activities on the island are free or inexpensive, so you have plenty to do!

<p><span>India is just perfect for backpackers who are on a budget. There is so much diversity in landscapes, cultures, and experiences in India; thus, there is always something for everyone. Local traveling through the country is very cheap, not to mention there are several different ways to travel too! Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to heritage homestays, which can always come in handy for a couple of nights on your travels. Local traveling around India couldn’t be easier with auto-rickshaws, buses, and trains being cheap and convenient.</span></p>

India is just perfect for backpackers who are on a budget. There is so much diversity in landscapes, cultures, and experiences in India; thus, there is always something for everyone. Local traveling through the country is very cheap, not to mention there are several different ways to travel too! Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to heritage homestays, which can always come in handy for a couple of nights on your travels. Local traveling around India couldn’t be easier with auto-rickshaws, buses, and trains being cheap and convenient.

<p><span>Nepal is known for having the world’s most imposing Himalayan mountains, with ancient temples. The best tourist spots in Nepal are Kathmandu, where most of the festivals take place, and where you can see the other side of Nepal where civilization is not only the ancient city Nagarkot in the eastern part of the country, and Pokhara, the beautiful town set near a lake in the western part of the country. Raise your heartbeat with a trek into the famous mountains, or relax and enjoy the views. </span></p>

Nepal is known for having the world’s most imposing Himalayan mountains, with ancient temples. The best tourist spots in Nepal are Kathmandu, where most of the festivals take place, and where you can see the other side of Nepal where civilization is not only the ancient city Nagarkot in the eastern part of the country, and Pokhara, the beautiful town set near a lake in the western part of the country. Raise your heartbeat with a trek into the famous mountains, or relax and enjoy the views.

<p><span>Sri Lanka has about 1,600 km of beautiful palm-edged beaches, which attract budget travelers looking to save. The country’s public transport is cheap and affordable – trains and buses – and fares will range between DLK100-500. The trains have routes from the south to the hills in the tea country, so be sure to check the train timetable before planning your trip. Buses are, however faster but crazier. </span></p>

Sri Lanka has about 1,600 km of beautiful palm-edged beaches, which attract budget travelers looking to save. The country’s public transport is cheap and affordable – trains and buses – and fares will range between DLK100-500. The trains have routes from the south to the hills in the tea country, so be sure to check the train timetable before planning your trip. Buses are, however faster but crazier.

The Philippines

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean, meaning certain natural perks come with the territory. Your money will also go a long way here, with cheap accommodation, transportation, and food costs. If you love the beach, this is the perfect destination for you. As an added perk, if English is your native language, there is no need to learn a local language!

<p><span>If you like tranquility in landlocked countries, ancient temples, and a laid-back atmosphere – Laos is for you! An affordable place to stay is Citi’s, like Luang Prabang and Vientiane, where transportation via local buses or rented bicycles is also cheap. Find the peace of waterfalls, discover the Buddhist Monasteries, and grab a bite on the street or via a local market offering Laotian cuisine.</span></p>

If you like tranquility in landlocked countries, ancient temples, and a laid-back atmosphere – Laos is for you! An affordable place to stay is Citi’s, like Luang Prabang and Vientiane, where transportation via local buses or rented bicycles is also cheap. Find the peace of waterfalls, discover the Buddhist Monasteries, and grab a bite on the street or via a local market offering Laotian cuisine.

<p><span>Located in Southeast Asia next to Thailand and Laos, Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a wonderland for budget travelers looking for adventures off the beaten path. Your pesos can go a long way in this country, where cheap guesthouses range from $8 to $15 per night. Despite its turbulent human rights history, the government has become more democratic and accessible to everyone. Besides that, Myanmar offers an adventure trip to explore the ancient temples at Bagan, Irrawaddy River Cruise, a trekking trip in northern Kachin State, magic Ngapali Beach, and the country’s second most significant city, Mandalay, with cultural and traditions. </span></p>

Located in Southeast Asia next to Thailand and Laos, Myanmar, also known as Burma, is a wonderland for budget travelers looking for adventures off the beaten path. Your pesos can go a long way in this country, where cheap guesthouses range from $8 to $15 per night. Despite its turbulent human rights history, the government has become more democratic and accessible to everyone. Besides that, Myanmar offers an adventure trip to explore the ancient temples at Bagan, Irrawaddy River Cruise, a trekking trip in northern Kachin State, magic Ngapali Beach, and the country’s second most significant city, Mandalay, with cultural and traditions.

<p><span>Malaysia is one of the most iconic places on earth, offering a little something for everyone. Regardless of your preferred climate, somewhere in Malaysia is always hot. If you ever want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and wind down with a book on a tropical beach, Malaysia is the place for you. Malaysia offers everything from cheap, delectable street food to affordable, clean, comfortable accommodation and transport. Malaysia is straightforward to get around. The notoriously cheap stand-alone flight company AirAsia covers main SE Asia flights. </span></p>

Malaysia is one of the most iconic places on earth, offering a little something for everyone. Regardless of your preferred climate, somewhere in Malaysia is always hot. If you ever want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and wind down with a book on a tropical beach, Malaysia is the place for you. Malaysia offers everything from cheap, delectable street food to affordable, clean, comfortable accommodation and transport. Malaysia is straightforward to get around. The notoriously cheap stand-alone flight company AirAsia covers main SE Asia flights.

<p><span>Singapore may make three visits worth of money disappear into thin air (3 days to see everything). Still, nothing can beat the cultural diversity with its hawker food centers or the diversity of tourism infrastructure like Formula 1 and Universal Studios. Although it is believed that a completely different style of travel is required to those remaining islands in SE Asia, Singapore still comes with its dirt-cheap hawker’s food courts. Chilli Crab is a must-eat dish in Singapore</span></p>

Singapore may make three visits worth of money disappear into thin air (3 days to see everything). Still, nothing can beat the cultural diversity with its hawker food centers or the diversity of tourism infrastructure like Formula 1 and Universal Studios. Although it is believed that a completely different style of travel is required to those remaining islands in SE Asia, Singapore still comes with its dirt-cheap hawker’s food courts. Chilli Crab is a must-eat dish in Singapore

<p><span>Bangladesh, while not the typical place to go for a holiday, offers a budget traveler an incredible and unique experience. Bangladesh is affordable, with excellent accommodations in the main cities such as Dhaka or Chittagong, starting from around 500 to 1000 Taka and even lower if you stay in a hostel or guest house. However, as a budget traveler, it is recommended to ride the local transportation to your destination area, such as bus services in the city, instead of a taxi, which can be pretty costly for a budget traveler. </span></p>

Bangladesh, while not the typical place to go for a holiday, offers a budget traveler an incredible and unique experience. Bangladesh is affordable, with excellent accommodations in the main cities such as Dhaka or Chittagong, starting from around 500 to 1000 Taka and even lower if you stay in a hostel or guest house. However, as a budget traveler, it is recommended to ride the local transportation to your destination area, such as bus services in the city, instead of a taxi, which can be pretty costly for a budget traveler.

<p><span>For budget travelers, Pakistan is a perfect destination offering stunning natural landscapes, rich history and heritage, and the warmth of the local people. Hotels are cheap in cities like Islamabad and Lahore, and transportation around the country via package deals and bus or train services is inexpensive. Tour ancient forts and mosques, trek through the lush green valleys of Hunza, and dine in small local restaurants, tasting the delicious Pakistani food.</span></p>

For budget travelers, Pakistan is a perfect destination offering stunning natural landscapes, rich history and heritage, and the warmth of the local people. Hotels are cheap in cities like Islamabad and Lahore, and transportation around the country via package deals and bus or train services is inexpensive. Tour ancient forts and mosques, trek through the lush green valleys of Hunza, and dine in small local restaurants, tasting the delicious Pakistani food.

<p><span>Kyrgyzstan smacked into the middle of central Asia, is a great destination. It is very cheap, with cheap lodging and food, and getting around can be accessible on buses. Kyrgyzstan is great for outdoor sports, and you can swim in their alpine lakes, climb their mountain passes, and experience living like a nomad. Turkey: Turkey is located between Europe and Asia. </span></p>

Kyrgyzstan smacked into the middle of central Asia, is a great destination. It is very cheap, with cheap lodging and food, and getting around can be accessible on buses. Kyrgyzstan is great for outdoor sports, and you can swim in their alpine lakes, climb their mountain passes, and experience living like a nomad. Turkey: Turkey is located between Europe and Asia.

<p><span>South Korea’s final ODA budget for 2023 was confirmed as KRW 4.78 trillion (approximately $3.7 billion). This budget represents a 6% increase over the initial proposal of KRW 4.5 trillion and a 21.3% increase over the 2022 budget of KRW 4.04 trillion.</span></p>

Countries Americans Should Be Cautious About Visiting

Embarking on international adventures can be thrilling, but for Americans planning their travels, it’s crucial to exercise caution and be aware of potential risks in these 15 countries, where extra vigilance is advised. Countries Americans Should Be Cautious About Visiting .

<p>Despite its small size, Goa offers diverse vacation options. Your main expenses here will likely be flights and transportation. A flight from NYC to Goa can exceed $1,000, but you can save $300 to $400 by flying into hubs like Mumbai. Once there, accommodation is affordable, with beach huts costing $5 to $20 per night and budget hotels averaging around $40. Meals and drinks are inexpensive, typically costing less than $5 each.</p>

Countries That Pay You to Call Them Home

Governments across the globe are introducing alluring programs and incentives to entice individuals from abroad. Ranging from Golden Visa initiatives to startup grants and remote work visas, these efforts foster investment, innovation, and the expansion of populations. Countries That PAY YOU to Call Them Home.

<p>In today’s capricious world, individuals aim to redirect their career life towards a path that will allow them to intertwine their professional career achievements with their interests in families and recreational activities. The rise of remote work combined with the pursuit of the ideal lifestyle has opened up opportunities like never before for folks who want to live and work with their whole hearts. We pulled together 18 jobs that are not only family-friendly but are also cool gigs to do. </p>

Jobs That Allow You To Travel With Family

The freedom to work and travel at the same time is becoming increasingly popular among families who want to break away from the conventional 9-to-5 work culture. Thanks to modern technology, more and more people are taking advantage of the opportunity to work remotely, making it easier to pursue their passions and explore new horizons. Jobs That Allow You To Travel With Family.

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Klook Plans Partnership with Thailand as the Country Skyrockets in Popularity

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

April 25th, 2024 at 2:33 PM EDT

Thailand remains a strong destination post Covid. Tour operators are flocking to the country and playing a significant role in how travel evolves.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Klook, a leading platform for travel experiences in Asia, signed a letter of intent with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to boost experiences in the country. The company is hoping to double the number of bookings it has for tourism packages to Thailand this year.

Klook says it is focusing on events, from Muay Thai matches to music festivals to Michelin visits and river cruises. The collaboration should have a particular impact on ticketing, as it allows the company to offer an integrated booking experience to major festivals and top attractions.

Klook is also planning to promote the less obvious attractions and support small to medium operators by providing digitalization tools that can bring offerings online and showcase them to a global audience.

Thailand Gaining in Popularity

Thailand is a long-time travel favorite and it bounced back strong after COVID. Klook says the country has had a 44% growth in foreign tourist arrivals over the past year and a Travel Pulse survey shows that travelers are looking to increase their target budgets for Thailand in 2024 by up to 50%.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand conducted its own survey echoing these results . They found that tourists are spending more on luxury accommodations despite higher airfares and that the use of online platforms for travel arrangements is rising, with tour operators “still playing a significant role.”

Other tour operators, such as EF World Journeys, which offers educational tours, say Thailand is a growing favorite for North American travelers and that it remains one of the top three most popular destinations in Asia.

“Year-to-date, EF Go Ahead Tours has realized nearly 60% year-over-year growth in bookings to Thailand, adding several new tour offerings in the country to meet the demand in the region,” says Heidi Durflinger, President of EF World Journeys which operates two of their offerings.

“Based on our trending destinations data, which is based on thousands of demand indicators amongst younger adult travelers (18-35), tours in Thailand have been a consistent top 5 destination for bookings during Spring Break, but we are also seeing strong demand for Thailand from travelers seeking international beach vacations all year round,” said Heather Leisman, President, EF Ultimate Break.

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Tags: Klook , thailand , tourism

Photo credit: Klook & Thailand Tourism Authority Tuk Tuk at Wat Ratchanadda and the Loha Prasat, Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Source: Klook

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Thailand: A Dream Destination for Every Traveler
Pattaya Thailand- Uncovered A Budget Traveler's Guide

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How to visit Thailand on a budget
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.
Thailand Trip Cost
Mid Range Budget: Average daily budget: $60-100 USD. 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.
Thailand Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
A comprehensive budget travel guide to Thailand with tips on things to do, costs, ways to save, transportation, accommodation, and more! Nomadic Matt's Travel Site. ... If you're backpacking Thailand, budget between 800-1,125 THB per day. On this budget, you'll be staying in a hostel dorm, eating food from the street vendors, enjoying a ...
30 Ways to visit THAILAND on a BUDGET
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.
17 Best Thailand On A Budget Travel Tips And Tricks (2024)
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.
Thailand On A Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Flights. 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.
The Cost of Travel in Thailand: My Detailed Budget Breakdown
The interior of a typical budget room on a Thai island; you can expect to spend $20 a night for similar. 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.
My 2024 Thailand Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown
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.
Thailand on a Budget: 10 Tips to Save Money and Travel Well
10 Tips to Save Money and Travel Well in Thailand Travel in May to October. The high tourist influx from November to April drives up prices, making travel difficult for small-budget travellers. Traveling during the green season benefits in various ways, as the crowd of travellers is less during this season.
The Ultimate Guide to Thailand Travel on a budget
Budget-Friendly Thailand Travel Tips. Thailand is a great destination for travelers on a budget. Here are some tips to help you save money during your trip: Eat street food: Thai street food is delicious and affordable. You can find a variety of dishes for under $1.
Thailand on a Budget: What you Need to Know
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.
Thailand on a Budget [2024]: Plan Your Trip on Budget!
If you're planning to travel to Thailand on a budget, here's a guide on approximated daily costs: Accommodation: $7.50 -$ 25. Street food: $5 - $15. Activities: $40 - $60. Motorbike hire: $4.50 - $9. If you're planning a 7-day trip to Thailand, you could enjoy each day with a budget maximum of $100 per day.
Thailand on a Budget: What you Need to Know
Before traveling to Thailand on a budget, it's crucial to understand the visa requirements and currency exchange process. Visitors from many countries can enter Thailand without a visa for a certain period of time, typically up to 30 days if arriving by air and up to 15 days if arriving overland. This is known as the visa-exemption rule.
Thailand Trip Cost: 10 Days In Thailand On A Budget
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.
Thailand Travel Costs: Tips for a Budget-Savvy Holiday Trip
The cost of travelling to Thailand during the holiday season can vary depending on several factors. Here's what you need to know to budget for your trip. Expenses. Cost range. Flight. 10,000 THB - 30,000 THB. Accommodation. 500 THB - 30,000 THB per night. Transportation.
Bangkok on a budget
Two airlines based in Thailand - Nok Air and Thai AirAsia - almost always offer lower domestic fares than those posted by national carrier Thai Airways and boutique-marketed Bangkok Airways. ... Budget Travel. 11 ways to see Benin on a budget. Apr 21, 2024 • 6 min read. Destination Practicalities. The best time to visit Oregon for ...
Travel Thailand on a Budget
If you want to travel Thailand on a budget, you have to give up the first class travelling whether it's by a bus, a plane, a train, or a boat. If you travel like a local or with a second-class ticket then you're guaranteed to save a lot of money. For example, a trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is 17 baht (around $0.50), but the first class ...
Phuket Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
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!
Your Ultimate Thailand Trip Cost
The average traveler spends about $ 63 per day during their trip through Thailand. Backpackers and travelers with smaller budgets come to about $ 25 -30 per day. We spent during our trip even only about $ 17.5 a day per person (of which $ 18.04 in the north and $ 17.92 in the south of Thailand).
Backpacking Thailand: The BEST Budget Guide 2023
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.
How to Do Thailand on a Budget
Thailand offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. From exploring ancient temples and vibrant markets to basking in the beauty of tropical beaches and indulging in mouthwatering street food, Thailand has something for everyone.
Thailand On A Budget- 12 Important Things To Know
Scams, tourist traps, and mishaps ฿1,070 ($34.50) Alcohol daily budget ฿220 ($7-8) ฿220 ($7-8) Millions of people visit Thailand every year and they come with a different purpose and different expectations. Some people want to enjoy luxury, others are backpacking, etc. So, for your trip to Thailand, you can spend more than this article ...
How to Visit Thailand on a Budget: 6 Tips
Thailand can be a truly amazing vacation destination and a great place to experience the culture, cuisine, and attractions of Southeast Asia for less. By following the tips we've outlined, you'll be able to plan the trip of a lifetime without spending a fortune. How to Visit Thailand on a Budget: 6 Tips | #Thailand #travel Click To Tweet
15 Beautiful Asian Countries to Visit on a Budget
Thailand is full of budget travelers, and it's no wonder why. It has a lot to offer, such as beautiful scenery, amazing things to see and do, and great food, and travelers meet other backpackers ...
Thailand vs Bali: Choose your favourite beach destination
Your choice between Thailand and Bali ultimately depends on your travel preferences and budget, whether you lean towards luxury, comfort, or backpacking adventures. However, it is generally agreed that Thailand is more wallet-friendly than Bali, offering diverse options and catering to a bigger tourist market with varying budgets.
Uday Sharma
Thailand -32.5k Bali- 32k Singapore -55k Malaysia- 44k Dubai - 48k Vietnam -39k #shreesaitourandtravels...". Uday Sharma | Travel the World on a Budget!!! Thailand -32.5k Bali- 32k Singapore -55k Malaysia- 44k Dubai - 48k Vietnam -39k #shreesaitourandtravels... | Instagram
Klook Plans Partnership with Thailand as the Country Skyrockets in
Thailand is a long-time travel favorite and it bounced back strong after COVID. Klook says the country has had a 44% growth in foreign tourist arrivals over the past year and a Travel Pulse survey ...
Thailand Extends Longer Visa-Free Stay for Russians Until July to Boost
Thailand's cabinet approved a plan to allow Russian tourists who enter the country without a visa to stay for a maximum of two months as the Southeast Asian country bets on tourism to support an ...