Thailand Travel Budget - Visit Thailand on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Thailand is a very popular country that's famous for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Bangkok, Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, and Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip. This will help you plan the best trip to Thailand and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine in Chiang Rai, taking in the beauty of Koh Samui, or scuba diving around Koh Tao.

How much does it cost to travel to Thailand?

You should plan to spend around $99 (฿3,378) per day on your vacation in Thailand. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $29 (฿1,007) on meals
  • $13 (฿442) on local transportation
  • $75 (฿2,560) on hotels

A one week trip to Thailand for two people costs, on average, $1,382 (฿47,292). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $99
    ฿3,378
  • One Week Per person
    $691
    ฿23,646
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,382
    ฿47,292
  • One Month Per person
    $2,962
    ฿101,340
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,382
    ฿47,292
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $2,764
    ฿94,584
  • One Month For a couple
    $5,924
    ฿202,680
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Thailand cost?

A one week trip to Thailand usually costs around $691 (฿23,646) for one person and $1,382 (฿47,292) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Thailand on average costs around $1,382 (฿47,292) for one person and $2,764 (฿94,584) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Thailand will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Thailand on average costs around $2,962 (฿101,340) for one person and $5,924 (฿202,680) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Thailand?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Thailand is $189 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Thailand expensive to visit?

Thailand is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Asia, Thailand is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to China or Malaysia.

Thailand offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Pha Ngan, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.

It's true that Thailand can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.

On average, budget travelers spend $37 (฿1,219) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $102 (฿3,378) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $308 (฿10,218) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Thailand.

For more details, see Is Thailand Expensive?

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

The average Thailand trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Thailand travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Thailand cost?

Thailand on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$14
(฿476) 		$37
(฿1,280) 		$107
(฿3,661)
Local Transportation 1 $4.49
(฿154) 		$13
(฿442) 		$42
(฿1,422)
Food 2 $12
(฿394) 		$29
(฿1,007) 		$76
(฿2,608)
Entertainment 1 $7.25
(฿248) 		$20
(฿673) 		$57
(฿1,960)
Alcohol 2 $2-5
(฿61-183) 		$5-14
(฿155-466) 		$12-35
(฿399-1,196)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Similan Islands, Thailand Similan Islands, Thailand

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.

What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?

Many travelers hear that exploring Thailand can be done for $37 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.

Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.

Fortunately, Thailand has a significant number of hostels, especially in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Pha Ngan. While food is a major attraction for all kinds of visitors to Thailand, budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare meals in their hostel, which means they might miss out on this culinary aspect of the country.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. You won't want to miss Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Bangkok, Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, or Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $102 per person, per day.

Thailand has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Chiang Mai and Koh Samui offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider Baan Boo Loo Village in Chiang Mai or Focal Local Bed & Breakfast in Bangkok. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Thailand here.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $308 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Khao Lak and Similan Islands. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok 2025 - offered by Avalon Waterways.

Accommodation Budget in Thailand

The variety of accommodation prices in Thailand can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Thailand for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $75 (฿2,560). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $37 (฿1,280) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $37
    ฿1,280
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $75
    ฿2,560

Hotels in Thailand

Looking for a hotel in Thailand? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Thailand

The average hotel room price in Thailand based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $33 in the low season and $62 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Bangkok
Bangkok is a large capital city that is one of the more popular destinations in Thailand. During the peak winter months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Bangkok, the average hotel price is $25 in the low season and $47 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $37 to $70. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $12 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Summit Pavilion Hotel for $21 and Ariyasom Villa starting at $105. Since travelers often stay up to seven days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.

Chiang Mai
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Chiang Mai. You can expect to spend anywhere from $12 to $93 depending on your budget and needs. Most visitors to Chiang Mai stay up to seven days, so you'll want to find a comfortable and convenient place if you're staying for a while. Also, a great hotel option is Shewe Wana Boutique Resort & Spa that runs about $26 per night. You can expect to pay around $8 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.

Hat Yai
As a hidden gem, Hat Yai offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $13 in the low season to $54 during the busy peak season. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out New Season Square Hotel for $40 and De Poem Loft Boutique Residence starting at $28.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Thailand

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $13 (฿442) per person, per day, on local transportation in Thailand. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Thailand is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $13
    ฿442
Local Transportation Tips

Thailand has limited options for public transportation unless you're visiting places like Bangkok. You should plan to hire a driver or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. However, this may cut into your overall trip budget.

It's much easier to avoid getting around in cars in the larger cities like Bangkok because they are busy and crowded. Parking is often expensive and traffic is challenging. You can save money by using public transit or walking.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

The typical transit costs in Thailand are outlined below, based on data from actual travelers. These figures provide an estimate of overall transportation expenses in the city. Remember, your personal costs will depend on how you choose to get around, as taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than using public transportation.


  • Trains to airport
    ฿160
  • Bus to White Temple
    ฿40
  • River Ferry Crossing
    ฿20
  • Minibus- Airport to Chaweng
    ฿120
  • Taxi- Na Thon Pier to Lamai Beach
    ฿420
  • Airport Taxi
    ฿440
  • Gas for Scooter
    ฿110
  • Longboat Taxi from Town
    ฿200


Food Budget in Thailand

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Thailand can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Thailand is $29 (฿1,007) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $29
    ฿1,007

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Thailand is around $30 (฿1007) per person, with previous travelers spending from $12 to $79. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Thailand are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $9
  • Lunch: $5 to $15
  • Dinner: $11 to $24
  • Coffee: $3
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $5

Thai food has grown into one of the most popular Asian cuisines. It's staples include noodles and rice and it is often made from a spicy curry, coconut, and seafood. Tofu is also a popular ingredient in many Thai dishes, and vegetarians won't be hard pressed to find meals they can eat.

Pad Thai: Probably the most popular dish in the country, Pad Thai is a staple dish made with rice noodles, eggs, fish sauce, and peanuts. It's available for very cheap from street vendors, but you'll find the best varieties in restaurants in larger cities. Some varieties can be quite spicy, while others are milder. It's often topped with chicken, prawns, or tofu.

Penang Curry: This is a delicious Thai curry that is generally milder than the green or red curries. It has a rich peanut based sauce and is often served with chicken or beef. It's often served with a side of rice and is available in most restaurants.

Thai Iced Tea: This unique take on iced tea is a very strong tea served with ice and a very sweet condensed milk. It's a great way to break up the spiciness of a dish.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Known worldwide for its outstanding cuisine, Thailand is a hugely popular food destination. The food alone draws many visitors. Some of the top cities for food enthusiasts are Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Chiang Rai.

Chiang Mai
One of the best culinary spots in Thailand is Chiang Mai. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

Bangkok
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Bangkok. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Hat Yai
Hat Yai is well known for its food scene. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Phuket
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in Phuket. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Food & Dining Tips

In the larger cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Hat Yai, you can save money if you eat at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants in the tourist areas or business centers offer lunch specials which are just smaller and cheaper versions of their dinner menus. You can sometimes get a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price if you look in the right places. Then, just eat a light meal at dinner.

If you're staying in a popular resort area, such as Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, or Koh Samui, the resorts will sometimes offer a variety of food options, and it's important to know the details to understand the prices. Some resorts offer full board, which includes every meal, while some offer half board, which is only two meals. Others might have on-site restaurants that may or may not be included in the price. Also, drinks are sometimes included, but not always. Check with the resort beforehand so that you know which meals and drinks you might need to pay for.

If you're spending a week or more in Chiang Mai, Koh Phangan, or Phuket, it's worth considering an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen for families or groups. This way, you can cook meals with budget-friendly groceries instead of constantly dining out.

When dining out with children, look for eateries that have a childrens' menu. It can save you a lot of money since these meals are typically more affordable. Some restaurants might not show the kids' options on the menu, so don't hesitate to ask your waiter first.

Many hotels come with breakfast included in the price, but some add it as an extra fee. The quality and cost of breakfast can change depending on the hotel. Knowing what to expect can assist you in deciding whether the hotel buffet is a worthwhile expense or if a nearby bakery or café would be a better choice.

Make sure to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks at every opportunity. It's also a great way to help the environment.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Thailand, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Riverside Thai Cooking Half Day Class for $61 details
  • Riverside Thai Cooking Class in Khao Lak with Market Tour for $55 details
  • Half-Day Thai Cooking Class with organic ingredients for $53 details
  • Half Day Evening Cooking Class with Yummy Tasty Thai Cooking School for $27 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical food prices in Thailand, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.


  • Lunch for 2
    ฿742
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    ฿550
  • Breakfast for 2
    ฿350
  • Ice Cream
    ฿30
  • Breakfast for 2
    ฿140
  • Lunch for 2
    ฿140
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    ฿215
  • Pancake
    ฿70


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Thailand

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Thailand typically cost an average of $20 (฿673) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $20
    ฿673
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

Thailand is an extremely popular travel destination, and offers many visitors a chance to check off many places on their bucket list. Some of the most popular destinations in Thailand include Chiang Mai, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Phangan.

Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a cultural city that's located in the mountainous part of northern Thailand. The city has many temples, a famous night market, and a unique cuisine that is among the best in the country. Many visitors book treks into the countryside from Chiang Mai and the city has become a popular destination for digital nomads.

Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is actually made up of six islands, but Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island. This island is popular with day trippers, but it's also a fun and beautiful island to visit independently. The snorkeling and diving is world class. There's a popular backpacker area around Tonsai, but there's also a quieter, resort-filled area to the north. In addition to stunning natural beauty, visitors enjoy snorkeling and dive trips, rock climbing, and hiking.

Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is located on the southeastern side of Thailand. Every month it attracts a crowd of backpackers and party-goers with its world-renowned Full Moon Party. The event's dates coincide with the lunar calendar and the festivities are mostly concentrated around Haad Rin on Sunrise Beach. The beach has many cheap bungalows where backpackers crash for a few nights of drinking and partying. There are some quieter parts to the island along the norther coast if you're looking for a more relaxing setting.

Phuket
Phuket is one of the most famous islands in Thailand. It's popular with tourists who come to party, swim, and experience the sights and culture. The capital of the island is Phuket City, but most visitors stay at one of the many resorts by the beaches around the island.

Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is a city near the Ayutthaya Historical Park. It is only about 80 kilometers from Bangkok and makes and great day trip. It's a very popular tourist attraction, as the city served as the capital of Siam from 1350 until 1767. Today you'll find the impressive ruins of temples, palaces, and monasteries.

Sightseeing Tips

Some of the most picturesque locations in Thailand include Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, and Khao Lak. These incredibly beautiful destinations will create lasting memories, so don't forget to include them on your itinerary.

For those who love scuba diving, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao, and Koh Lipe provide some of the best opportunities. Make sure to plan ahead, taking into account both the best season to visit and your overall budget.

Thailand is full of terrific beach destinations. When the weather is nice, many visitors flock to the beach for a relaxing vacation as well as plenty of fun activities. A few of the best beaches are found in Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan, and Phuket.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Thailand. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide for $65 details
  • Foods experience at Railway & Floating Market for $126 details
  • Koh Tao VIP Snorkelling Tour for $167 details
  • LIFECYCLING - Half Day City Bike Tour for $38 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.


  • Siriraj Museum (2)
    ฿400
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    ฿100
  • Fish Pedicure
    ฿150
  • Kayak and Snorkel (2)
    ฿100
  • Wat Entrance
    ฿50
  • Temple Entrances (2)
    ฿200
  • Club Cover Charge
    ฿375
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    ฿2,400


Nightlife Budget in Thailand

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $9.09 (฿311) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Thailand per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $9.09
    ฿311
Popular Nightlife Destinations

Thailand has become a major hotspot for nightlife, with visitors flocking from all corners of the world to join the fun. Among the best nightlife cities are Koh Phangan, Phuket, and Koh Samui.

Koh Phangan
Visitors love the nightlife in Koh Phangan. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Phuket
The nightlife in Phuket is quite popular. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Koh Samui
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Koh Samui. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Pattaya
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Pattaya. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

Bangkok
Nightlife in Bangkok is not to be missed. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Nightlife Tips

Enjoying the nightlife is always fun, but if you cut down on alcohol, you'll see a noticeable difference in your travel costs.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Thailand. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Chalong Bay Rum Distillery Experience for $38 details
  • Bangkok After Dark: Pub Crawl Adventure for $22 details
  • Private Experience of Wine Tasting Hua Hin in Monsoon Valley for $86 details
  • Phuket Guided Pub Crawl for $29 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Thailand are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the drink prices in Thailand. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, how often you drink alcoholic beverages, and how much you order. Keep in mind that if you want to save money on your trip, cutting out alcohol can make one of the biggest impacts on your travel budget.


  • Drinks at Irish Pub (for Two)
    ฿260
  • Cocktails (for Two)
    ฿300
  • Beer
    ฿90
  • Beer
    ฿65
  • Bottle of Wine
    ฿370
  • Beer (2)
    ฿140
  • Banana Daiquiri
    ฿200
  • Mojito Bucket
    ฿500


Travel Costs Last Updated: Nov 18, 2024
A Longtail Boat A Longtail Boat

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • The peak season in Thailand is in the winter when it's buzzing with tourists, and with the surge in visitors comes an increase in prices. Hotels fill up fast, and finding affordable accommodation can be a bit of a challenge. If you want to keep things budget-friendly, visiting during the shoulder or low seasons is a great way to avoid the crowds and save some money.
  • Locations like Chiang Mai, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Phangan are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
  • Some destinations see visitors staying for longer periods of time. In places such as Chiang Mai, Koh Phangan, and Phuket, it's common for people to stay for a week or so while they enjoy their vacation. Many families also travel with kids, so staying at an apartment or vacation rental is a great option for saving money. You'll enjoy a more comfortable space, perhaps with a kitchen and other amenities.
  • This country is a hotspot for backpackers and young travelers on a budget. If that sounds like you, there are plenty of hostels and affordable or free activities waiting to be explored. If you're looking to connect with like-minded adventurers, Chiang Mai, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Phangan are fantastic choices where you can find hostels or low cost hotels, meet other travelers, and have a blast.
  • Many couples love heading to Thailand for a fun or laid-back honeymoon. Maybe you're looking for a romantic retreat or just a thrilling weekend adventure. Whatever your vibe, this country offers countless fantastic places to discover with your partner. Some of the most romantic locations include Koh Phi Phi, Bangkok, and Khao Lak.
  • Many visitors seek out a restful vacation at a resort. They enjoy the simplicity of not having to plan their trip or travel between destinations. Luxurious resorts provide a mix of serene lodging, engaging activities, and fantastic food. If you desire a calming location where you can indulge yourself stylishly, make your way to Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, or Koh Samui. This is where you'll find some of the best resorts in Thailand.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Scuba diving spots around Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao, and Koh Lipe are very popular, but this activity comes at a cost. Expenses like dive trips, equipment rentals, and boat tours can take a significant bite out of your budget. It's also important to confirm your travel insurance covers any potential accidents.
  • For families with younger kids, getting around with a private vehicle or taxi can be a lot easier than navigating public transportation. Just remember, though, it'll be a pricier option.

  • In destinations like Bangkok, it can be tough to find a hotel room that fits a family of four. Expect to either opt for a larger hotel or pay for two rooms to make sure everyone has enough space. Often, hotels outside of the city center are larger and more modern.


Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi, Thailand Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Thailand.

How can you save money during your time in Thailand?

We wanted a different experience than your typical beach vacation in Thailand, so we went to the less touristy areas which were far cheaper.

Aubrey
-
May 18 2024

Thailand isn't a cheap as it used to be when we visited years ago, but it's still possible to save money by avoiding the big resorts, taking the local buses, and choosing your destinations wisely.

taylor87
-
May 15 2024

We were a bit overwhelmed by how touristy Thailand was after some of the other places we've visited. This makes it harder to save money because prices are higher for tourists. Head north from Bangkok and explore those parts of the country, which are much cheaper than the south.

colin_e
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Mar 4 2024

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Thailand is a world renowned destination for its beaches, mountains, culture, and food. It's at the top of most traveler's wish list, and it's easy to see why it's grown in popularity. Thailand is also a country whose economy and infrastructure is focused on tourism. Because of this, many visitors feel frustrated with the atmosphere and often complain that they feel like walking ATMs. The best way to enjoy your time here is to relax, let things roll off your back, be prepared for frustrations, and make a point of getting outside of the most touristy areas. If you stay around the tourist crowds you'll have only a limited opportunity to see the authentic side of Thailand.

This is easily the most popular country for travelers in Southeast Asia. It has stunning beaches in the south, jungle and culture in the north, and a city filled with night life and activities in Bangkok. If you decide to spend a few days in Bangkok, head to Koh San Road if you're looking to party hard. If you're hoping for some isolated beaches, head south to the national park beaches such as Koh Tarutao, where you'll find few amenities, but equally few people. This is where you'll find one of the few isolated beaches in the country. Whatever you do don't miss trekking in the northern regions in Chiang Mai. This area is rich in culture and beauty. Chiang Mai is also one of the best places to sample Thai food. Food in the area is filled with flavors. Its spicy, but if you order it mild the restaurant often abides.

Due to its popularity, Thailand is one of the more expensive countries to visit in Southeast Asia. Even so, the prices are dramatically less than those in western countries and many people find they can linger on the beaches or in the north for weeks on end without breaking their budget. The northern parts of the country are both more cultural and also more affordable. Accommodation and food on the beaches can be much more expensive, and in some places reservations are required as the rooms can fill up quickly. The quality can also be frustratingly poor in some places so do make sure you see the room or read reviews before committing to a place.

At A Glance
  • Because Thailand is one of the more touristy countries in Southeast Asia, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the crowds and the hassle. If you find yourself getting a little frustrated, head to the northern parts of the country where the atmosphere is more relaxed and mellow. The highlands are beautiful and you can have a wonderful cultural experience at a far more affordable price.

  • The food in Thailand is absolutely delicious. It is generally served quite spicy and can overwhelm many people's palates. If you're hoping for a milder variety of a specific dish, ask for it with "no spice." While many locals don't understand the word mild, they do understand "no spice." They usually abide by these instructions, but not always.

  • If you're really enjoying the food in Thailand then consider taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai. These classes often last a full day and they are loads of fun. The teachers keep the classes light and humorous and the food provides a full days worth of meals. You can often arrange classes through your hotel or a local travel agency.

  • Many people use VIP buses to travel around Thailand. These buses are decent in quality but the connections are often poorly thought out and inconvenient. Once a booking agent has your money you are really at their mercy. Consider finding the local bus station and traveling with public buses which are far cheaper and often times more convenient.

  • There are many popular beaches in Thailand with some of the most famous being on Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui. If you're looking for a more remote and peaceful experience look into any of the national parks around the country. Some have cabins available where you can camp and others have tents available for rent.

Related:

Partying in Chiang Mai or other parts of Thailand?

Going to the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?

Hitting the beach in Koh Samui?

Top Tourist Attractions

The Grand Palace: This truly is an absolutely grand palace. It is located in Bangkok and is impressive in its size and intricate details. It's bright colors and impressive architecture make it well worth a visit.

Khao Yai National Park: In the northeastern part of the country, this national park is the best spot to see elephants, tigers and a variety of birds. If you're looking to get away from crowded beaches and see some wildlife, this is the best place to go.

Ko Tarutao: This uniquely quiet beach is a great place to enjoy a remote, beautiful, and isolated beach in Thailand. You can camp or stay in one of the cabins available on the island.



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