Thailand offers several experiences – from bamboo rafting to jungle trekking, from island hopping to scuba diving, from epic festivals to relaxing holidays, from temples to cooking class – you should find something that suits your needs and interests.
If you’re planning your first trip to Thailand, this guide should answer any questions you may have. We’ll talk about travel facts, the best time to visit Thailand, the best destinations, recommended itineraries, travel costs, travel essentials and how to prepare for your trip.
| Information | Thailand |
|---|---|
| Language | Thai |
| English-friendly | Yes |
| Currency | THB (Thai baht) |
| Internet reliability | Great |
Thailand is a huge country and depending on your destination, you may be facing different types of seasons. We decided to split this section into four sections to help you understand the seasons:
| Areas | Season | Months |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok area | Dry season
Wet season |
November to June
July to October |
| Thai islands Andaman Sea | Dry season
Wet season |
November to May
June to October |
| Thai islands Gulf of Thailand | Dry season
Wet season |
May to October
November to April |
| North Thailand | Dry season
Wet season Burning season (poor air quality) |
October to December
May to October January to April |
Planning your trip to Thailand? We created Thailand itineraries to help you. You can pick the length of your stay and follow our recommended itineraries. We created itineraries for up to one month including our favorite Thai destinations.
Bangkok & Islands
Thai Islands from Krabi
Thai Islands from Bangkok
Bangkok & Islands
Thai Islands from Krabi
Mainland & Islands from Bangkok
Bangkok & Islands
Thai Islands from Krabi
Mainland & Islands from Bangkok
Bangkok & Islands
Thai Islands from Krabi
Mainland & Islands from Bangkok
In this section, you’ll find general information on costs and how to prepare for your trip. Finally, you will find a table that will provide an overview of cost and options depending on your travel budget.
If you’re planning on staying somewhere longer, you may like our guide to living in Thailand. We have guides for the following destinations:
In Thailand, you’ll find several options when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re a budget traveler or not, you won’t have difficulty to find options. You can find dorms starting at $4-5 per night.
You can also take a look at our accommodation guides for the following destinations:
When it comes to food, you can find different types of restaurants. If you eat local food, you can eat for less than THB 100. Obviously, you may find elegant restaurants around the country when you can pay more if you wish to. The cheapest options are usually in small local restaurants and in the night markets.
Some activities such as hiking or beach bumming are free. Although, if you’re planning on visiting temples, seeing the elephants, go on a snorkeling or diving trip, you will have to pay for it. You can browse activities in Thailand here to have an idea of the costs.
In general, it’s pretty easy to get around Thailand. You can either fly, take a ferry, a bus or a van to reach your destinations. You can read more about transportation in Thailand.
To book your transport between destinations, you can book via 12GO or via a travel agency. Most of the time, your hotel and hostel may be able to arrange it for you.
| Travel Cost | Budget travel | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $5 per night | $30-100 per night | $100+ |
| Meal | $2-5 per meal | $5-15 per meal | $15+ |
| Activities | Focus on free activities | Mixing free activities & mid-range | $30+ per day |
| Transport | By bus/train | By bus, ferry, train, flights | Private driver |
Overall, traveling around Thailand is pretty safe. Of course, you should always lock your valuables especially if you’re staying in a hostel. Thailand is one of the countries where I feel the most safe abroad – I’ve never had any issues with ATMs, while driving at night or walking at night. Although, you should always be careful. If you don’t feel comfortable alone at night, make sure to ask a friend to join you.
Apart from the travel essentials, here are the things you should absolutely bring along with you in Thailand. Click on the images to shop on Amazon. You can also check out this list of travel essentials in Southeast Asia.
Depending on your nationality, you may need to get a visa to visit Thailand. Note that many countries receive a free entry up to 30 days. Then, you may be able to extend your visa for an extra 30 days. If you apply at your local embassy, you may be able to get 60 days and then an extra 30 days.
You can learn more about the visa extensions in Thailand in the following posts:
You can verify your visa requirements here.
Browse flights on Skyscanner to find deals.
Book your travel insurance for as little as $42/month.
Find accommodation anywhere in the world.
Check the visa requirements and apply for a visa if needed.
Volunteer abroad in exchange for free accommodation.
Book transfers, tours, and activities in advance.
It’s hard to find a good data plan when you’re traveling. You have to research the best deals, go to a store, and hope they have a prepaid SIM card for travelers and tourists.
And if they don’t? You could be without service for the rest of your trip. Not only is that frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming.
eSIMs are the solution to your travel woes. With an eSIM plan, you can stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, there are no contracts or cancellation fees, so you can change your plan whenever you want.
If you’re looking for an eSIM plan while in Thailand, then be sure to check out the providers below. They all offer great plans that will keep you connected while you’re there.
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