Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to Thailand

Even when you’re a seasoned traveler, traveling abroad can come with its fair share of anxiety.  There’s always an element of “unknown” when venturing to a new country – especially if you’ve never been to the region before.  Did you pack appropriately?  What should you expect about the local customs and traditions?  Is it appropriate to barter?  And so on.  My first time to Southeast Asia was when I visited Thailand and I truly had no clue what to expect.  Luckily, I have put together everything you could possibly need to know about traveling to Thailand and am sharing it with you here!

 

If you’re traveling to Southeast Asia, don’t miss:

• Thailand vs Vietnam – Which is Better to Visit?

 

Brief History of Thailand

Thailand, known as Siam until 1939, is a country rich in history and culture, nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia.  Its story begins with the early kingdoms of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, which flourished from the 13th to the 18th centuries, known for their remarkable advancements in art and architecture.  In the 18th century, the Chakri dynasty emerged, establishing Bangkok as the capital.  Unlike its neighbors, Thailand skillfully avoided colonization, maintaining its independence throughout the European colonial period.

The 20th century saw Thailand maintain a delicate balance between tradition and modernity.  In recent decades, Thailand has grown into a bustling hub of commerce and tourism, celebrated for its vibrant culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and the warmth of its people.

 

Is Thailand Worth Visiting?

Having traveled to Thailand more than once, I might be biased but I would say that absolutely Thailand is worth visiting.  It’s a paradise for food lovers; landscapes range from idyllic beaches to lush jungles, perfect for adventure and relaxation.  Moreover, Thailand’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its temples, festivals, and the legendary hospitality of its people.  This blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and cultural richness makes Thailand one of my favorite countries in the world.

 

Safety Tips for Visiting Thailand

Thailand ranks 92nd out of 163 countries and territories on the Global Peace Index (for reference, the United States holds the 131st spot).  In my experience traveling through Thailand both solo and with my boyfriend, I felt perfectly safe.  However, here are some general safety tips to follow when traveling through Thailand.

• Make two copies your passport; keep one copy in a separate place from where you keep your passport, and leave the second copy at home with a loved one
• Forward all hotel reservations to a family member/friend so they can track where you’re supposed to be at all times
• Know the number and address of the US Embassy (or whatever country you’re from).  In this case, the main US Embassy is located in Bangkok and there is also an embassy in Chiang Mai
  • Bangkok – Phone:  +66 2 205 4000; Address:  95 Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
  • Chiang Mai – Phone:  +66 53 107 700; Address:  387 Wichayanon Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300
• Know how to dial out – the code for Thailand is +66
• Know how to contact the police – 191; ambulance – 1669; firefighters -199

 

Vaccines to Get Before Visiting Thailand

I highly recommend checking out the CDC recommendations for vaccines to get before visiting Thailand, and making an appointment with an infectious disease doctor before traveling.

 

Travel Insurance

Another way to ensure safety during a trip is by purchasing travel insurance.  Travel insurance can cover illness, theft, airplane and hotel cancellation, and emergency evacuation services if something arises (each plan is different so make sure to see what your insurance covers before purchasing).  I used SafetyWing while traveling through Thailand and would highly recommend it.

 

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE HERE!

 

Visa Requirements for Visiting Thailand

Americans can travel to Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days.  If you plan to stay in Thailand longer than 30-days, you can apply for a visa here or you can do it once you arrive to the country.

 

The Best Time to Visit Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand is from November-April; these months are considered “dry” season.  However, if you’re traveling south the islands on the west coast versus the east coast experience different weather patterns.  You’ll want to avoid the west coast islands from May-October and the east coast islands from November-March.

The average temperature in Thailand ranges from 64 F to 100 F.  The hottest months in Thailand are April and May, and the coolest months are from November-March.  (Although even when its “cool” in Thailand, it still feels relatively hot).

 

Cost of Visiting Thailand

I’ve traveled to Thailand twice now (once in 2019 and once in 2023).  I have to say, that my second visit I noticed a big increase in price from hotels to street food.  And while Thailand is still affordable, I would argue it’s becoming one of the more expensive countries in Southeast Asia.  (It isn’t anywhere near expensive as Singapore, but it is more expensive than Vietnam).  However, you can still travel to Thailand on a budget and have a great time.  You just have to be smarter about how you’re spending money!

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, I would say that you can expect to spend (on food, accommodation, and tours)…

• Budget:  $30-50/day
• Mid-Range:  $50-$70/day
• Luxury:  $100+/day

As for food, you can easily score a meal at a street food market for just a few dollars.  But on the islands and in restaurants (especially non-Thai restaurants), prices will increase.  Transportation is still very cheap in Thailand, and you’re able to negotiate with drivers to bring costs down.  I find that the most affordable way to get around Thailand is by using the Grab app and choosing “motorbike” as your mode of transportation.  However, Grab is not available everywhere – especially on the islands, but in these cases you can rent your own motorbike for the day.  If you need to travel through Thailand, taking a bus is generally very affordable.  Tours can be cheap (if you join a group) or more expensive if you want a private guide.  Lastly, hotels and hostels are pretty affordable throughout Thailand.  I used Booking.com to compare hotel prices throughout the country.

 

Currency in Thailand

Thailand operates on the Thai Baht (฿) or THB.  At time of writing, 1 USD = 34 THB.

 

Cash vs Credit/Debit

When you visit Thailand, I highly recommend getting cash out when you arrive.  I don’t suggest bringing your own currency and exchanging it at the airport because you generally won’t get a good exchange rate.  Instead, use the ATM and make sure that you’ve notified your bank of travel so that you can access your account.  The ATM fees in Thailand are expensive, around $6 per transaction, so make sure you take enough out that you’re not continuously returning to the ATM.  Furthermore, the machine will ask you if you want to use their exchange currency.  Always answer no – you will get a better rate this way.

As far as using a credit/debit card, there are some opportunities for you to use a card, mainly at bigger restaurants or when booking buses/hotels.  Sometimes you will be charged a 3% additional fee, but you will be notified of this before being charged.

 

Pro tip:  If you’re using a credit card while traveling, make sure that you’re using one that doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees!  if you need a recommendation, send me a DM on IG.

 

Tipping Practices

Tipping is not common in Thailand.  Of course, tipping is greatly appreciated but it’s not expected.  There are some instances you will notice a “tip” jar at places.  If you feel inclined, of course you can leave some money but don’t feel obligated.

In Bangkok, most restaurants will charge a 10% service fee that goes towards the staff.

 

How to Get to Thailand

Thailand has many international airports, to accommodate visitors from around the world, but the two biggest are both located in Bangkok.   (Depending on where you’re coming from, chances are you’ll connect in Bangkok before flying elsewhere in Thailand if Bangkok isn’t your final destination).  The two airports are Don Mueang airport (DMK) and Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK).  I recommend using Skyscanner and Expedia to compare flight options and prices.

If you’re spending a few days in Bangkok before exploring the rest of Thailand, the drive from both BKK and DMK to the city is about an hour depending on traffic.  BKK is located east of Bangkok, and DMK is located north of Bangkok.  You can easily get a taxi to the city once you arrive at the airport.

If you want a private, English speaking taxi driver waiting for you on arrival, you can book one here.

If you’re coming from another country in Southeast Asia like Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, or Laos you can also explore the option to travel by land and take a bus into Thailand.  Use Bookaway or 12Go filter through options and compare prices.

 

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT TO THAILAND HERE!

 

Traveling to Thailand from the US

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand from the USA your journey can be pretty long!  To make your journey more comfortable, and maybe even more affordable, here are some simple tips…

• If you live in a small city, buy a flight out of a bigger city to save money
  • For example, I live in Omaha, NE so I use Southwest points to fly to Chicago in the morning, then get a night flight out of Chicago to my destination
• Compare prices when it comes to arriving/departing from BKK or DMK in Bangkok
• Look at flight prices/times if you fly from the East Coast vs the West Coast
• Open a travel credit card to earn points to potentially use for your flight
• Compare flight prices on Expedia and Skyscanner
• Purchase travel insurance (before traveling) in case anything goes wrong with your flight

 

How to Get Around Thailand

Transportation in Thailand is easy to come by, just be aware of prices and always ask before agreeing to take a taxi, tuk-tuk, or motorbike.  Prices can usually be negotiated and if it sounds too expensive – it probably is.  Tuktuk’s will run you the most money, while motorbikes will be the cheapest. Thailand also utilizes Grab, which is the best bang for your buck and will give you the lowest price possible.  When booking transportation between cities or islands, I recommend using 12Go or Bookaway to look for options.

 

BOOK BUS TICKETS IN THAILAND HERE!

 

Thai Food & Drink

The food throughout Thailand is absolutely phenomenal and draws world wide attention.  The most popular dishes in Thailand are papaya salad, pad thai, fried rice, curry, and each reason has its own specialty.  The food can be quite spicy, so if you’re not into that – make sure to request “no spice” when ordering.

I believe that the best way to experience a country is through its food; if you’re planning a trip to Thailand, I highly recommend checking out Cookly to experience a local cooking class.

As far as drinking, I don’t recommend drinking the tap water.  When you ask for water you’ll almost always get a bottle of water or you might get filtered water if it’s available.  To cut down on plastic waste, I suggest bringing a reusable water bottle with you and requesting filtered water when available.

 

BOOK A LOCAL COOKING CLASS IN THAILAND HERE!

 

Language in Thailand & Simple Phrases to Know

The main language in Thailand is Thai.  English is widely spoken with most people knowing at least enough English to get by.  All tour guides and hotel staff will know enough English to assist you in getting around and helping you out.

When traveling, I always think it’s polite to learn a few phrases in the language of the country that you’re visiting.  Here are a couple of Thai words that can help you get by…

• Thank you = Khxbkhun
• Hello = Swasdi
• Goodbye = La kxn
• Toilet = Hxngna

 

What to Pack for Thailand

Below you’ll find everything I suggest packing for a trip to Thailand…

• Swimming suit (if you’re going to the islands)
• Breezy dresses
• Linen outfits
• Sunglasses
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Shower shoes/beach shoes
• Eye mask for the airplane
• Reusable water bottle (to keep your water cool on hot days)
• Lock for suitcase
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen (face and body)

There are times in Thailand where you’re required to cover your knees and shoulders.  I recommend bringing at least one outfit that does this.

 

 

For a more extensive packing list, don’t miss:

• The Best Packing List for Thailand

 

Accommodation in Thailand

By far, the easiest way to book accommodation in Thailand is by Booking.com.  Not only will you find a plethora of hotels but you’re also able to filter through options.  Before browsing accommodations, I always make sure that I have “free wifi”, “very good 8+ reviews”, “distance less than 1 km to center” toggled ON.  From there, I browse through accommodations and choose the best one for me.  (If you’re staying in Bangkok, rental properties are also common; search here).

 

If you’re staying in Bangkok, don’t miss:

• 10+ of the Best Hotels in Bangkok
• Staying at the Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok

 

BOOK YOUR STAY IN THAILAND HERE!

 

Thailand Essentials – What You Need & Need to Know About Visiting Thailand

 

I hope that this list eases some of your anxiety and gives you basic knowledge of things to know before traveling to Thailand.

 

For more on traveling to Thailand, don’t miss:

• Khao Lak to Similan Islands – A Complete Guide
• Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Koh Lanta, Thailand
• What You Need to Know About Visiting Khao Lak
• The Ultimate Guide to Phuket, Thailand
• The Ultimate Thailand Bucket List
• 3 Ways to Have the Ultimate Chiang Mai Experience

 

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For more information on things to see and do in Thailand, make sure to check out my Instagram page/highlight reel by searching “#ppinthailand” or under my highlights for “Thailand”; alternatively, head to my TikTok and search for the saved “Thailand” highlight

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