How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Thailand? Prices and Tips 2024
How much does a Thailand trip cost? Is Thailand expensive? Plane tickets, accommodation, food, transportation, activities... The budget can quickly escalate. Fortunately, with a few tips, it's entirely possible to visit Thailand without breaking the bank! In this article, discover all the tricks to travel to Thailand on a budget and find the best prices for your stay, so you can fully enjoy this fascinating destination.
Written byPreetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 05-11-2024
At 29 years old, Preetika is an enthusiastic explorer deeply connected to Thailand, Laos and Cambodia's rich heritage. As a Bangkoker, her local insights and experiences imbue authenticity into her narratives. She discovers solace within the pages of a book as much as amidst Southern Asian vibrant landscapes and bustling street markets. With an ardent passion for travel and a profound affection for literature, Preetika effortlessly integrates her personal adventures into captivating stories, providing a perspective uniquely rooted in local experience.
Bear in mind: The baht is the only legal currency in Thailand. Thus, it's advisable to exchange some currency in your home country before coming to Thailand and avoid using airport exchange services. Bank-operated centers, such as Kasikorn Bank, often offer poor exchange rates. Instead, consider using services like Super Rich or Dee Money, which can be found in many malls in Bangkok (Emporium, Icon Siam, Siam Paragon,...) or at Nana Soi 8.
Baht is the only currency in Thailand
1. How to Properly Plan Your Travel Budget in Thailand?
1.1 Understanding Daily Expenses
Your daily budget or daily average cost in Thailand will largely depend on your choices of accommodation, dining, and activities. Your budget will quickly inflate if you choose high-end establishments aimed at tourists. Similarly, certain activities like diving or excursions can be costly. You also need to plan and budget for nightlife, which is very developed in Thailand but can quickly blow your initial estimates. Luckily, you can find food cheaply.
Thailand is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.
1.2 Choosing Your Destination
Trips to the islands with beaches or larger cities, though paradise-like, are often more expensive. Everything must be transported by boat, leading to additional costs passed on to tourists. With high island rents, merchants raise their prices. Conversely, you can choose the northern part of the country (Chiang Mai, Pai) for a more budget-friendly stay. Even within a city, less touristy neighborhoods are more affordable.
>>> Good to know: Imported alcohol in Thailand is quite expensive due to high taxes, with a limit of 1 liter per person allowed for import. Local whisky, like 100 Piper, Hong Thong, and Blend, is much cheaper, costing around 300-400 THB per liter.
Carefully select your destination.
1.3 Choosing the Timing of Your Trip
The ideal time to travel to Thailand in terms of weather is from December to April, with optimal sunshine. However, it is also the high season, marked by high prices. It is important to note that the very high season is from late March to late April, especially in 2024, due to the overlapping holidays of two major holidays, Chakri Day and Songkran.
If you plan to travel between June and October, you can enjoy lush landscapes and great rates on accommodation and activities. However, this period also corresponds to the low season in Thailand due to rain, leading to limited activities on the islands. Some activities, such as sailboat and yacht rentals, may be closed during this time. Friendly reminder: The peak season is from late March to late April, especially in 2024 when Chakri Day and Songkran holidays overlap.
Do you know Songkran 2024is coming close? Let's discover this biggest festival of Thailand!
The Thai baht is the currency used in Thailand.
2. Budget for a Trip to Thailand
2.1 Plane tickets
Airfares to Thailand vary depending on the season. The most expensive periods are from mid-November to mid-February (peak season) and in July-August (school holidays). To find reasonable prices, book several months in advance. Expect an average of $750-$1200 for economy class departing from Europe. Choose the low-season months to get discounts of up to 50%.
Plane tickets: book several months in advance to obtain reasonable prices
2.2 Accommodation
When people ask how much it typically costs to go to this beautiful country, they understand that where you stay and the type of accommodation in Thailand you choose make a significant difference. In Thailand, travelers have a wide range of accommodation options at various prices.
Cities
Price Range
Price Range
Price Range
Price Range
Bangkok
$25 (dormitory)
$26-$37
$47-$63 (location-based)
$105+ (package-based)
Chiang Mai
$25 (average)
$26-$37
$47-$53 (comfort and culture)
$63+ (luxury level)
Phuket
$25 (budget-friendly)
$26-$37 (basic and beachy)
$47 (good value)
$126+ (beachfront and high-end)
Nowadays, many reputable websites specialize in online hotel booking, such as Booking and Agoda, which regularly offer attractive monthly discounts. However, it's essential to note that after making an online reservation, it's recommended to call the hotel or send them an email to confirm the booking information.
This small precaution will avoid any confusion and ensure that you have a room reserved upon arrival, thus avoiding being without accommodation during your stay abroad.
In Thailand, travelers have a wide range of accommodation options at varying prices
2.3 Local Transportation
In Thailand, you have a variety of popular transportation options to explore the country's golden pagodas: BTS, MRT, buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, boats, moto-taxis, songthaew and car rentals. Fortunately, traveling by public transport in Thailand is relatively affordable.
Here's an estimate of prices for some common routes:
Bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: approximately $28 to $30
Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (2nd class): approximately $27 to $59
Ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta: from $27 to $54
Ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Tao: $19
Advice:
During the rainy season, ferries between Koh Samui beaches and the mainland or Koh Tao can be risky due to rough seas. Flying is safer, though flights to Koh Samui are expensive and only operated by Bangkok Airways. A more affordable option is to fly to Surat Thani and take a ferry, but be cautious of the waves.
In Bangkok, taxis cost about $1 per kilometer. To avoid scams, always use the meter and avoid hailing taxis on the street. Use taxi stands near shopping malls or have your hotel call one for you for better safety and pricing.
Car rentals are around $11 per day.
For transportation in Bangkok, budget $4 to $9 per day. The city has two metro systems: BTS Skytrain and MRT underground. The BTS Sukhumvit line connects major attractions like Siam Paragon, Terminal 21, and Emquartier, with transfers available at Siam Paragon to the Silom line and at Krung Thon Buri to the gold line for Icon Siam. The MRT is ideal for Chinatown. For ride-hailing, Grab can be pricey during peak hours; consider alternatives like Lineman Taxi or Bolt.
The most interesting means of transport in Thailand: the tuk-tuk
2.4 Food Budget
Thailand is truly a culinary paradise, offering a dining experience ranging from street food delights to the refinements of Michelin-starred restaurants. The price of a meal depends on the place you choose, and food costs in Thailand can also vary depending on cities and tourist regions.
Street food, in particular, is very affordable in Thailand. You can enjoy a huge portion of fried rice from a street vendor for only 60 baht(approximately $2). And if you prefer something other than fried rice, no worries, you can opt for Pad Thai, Yai, Khao Soi, or fresh fruits, all for low cost, just less than 100 baht(about $3). Basically, most Thai dishes will cost you around $2-$3.
Local Restaurants: Prices slightly above street food, ranging from $3 to $9 for individual dishes.
Nara Restaurant (Bangkok & Chiang Mai): Mid-range favorite, with locations in Siam Paragon, Central World, Emquartier, and One Nimman Complex.
You can find Nana Thai Cuisine in the Emquarter Mall in Bangkok
Fancier Restaurants:
Bangkok:
Nahm: $52.5-$105 per person, known for innovative and traditional Thai flavors.
Bo.Lan: $63-$126 per person, celebrated for delicious, sustainably prepared food.
Bo.lan serving both Thai food heritage and eating culture
Chiang Mai:
Ruen Tamarind: $21-$42 per person, offers scenic ambiance with traditional Northern cuisine.
The Service 1921 Restaurant and Bar: $26.25-$52.5 per person, combines historical ambiance with exquisite food.
Ruen Tamarind offers mouthwatering Thai and international dishes
Phuket:
Pru: $84-$157.5 per person, famous for its farm-to-table dining experience.
Blue Elephant Phuket: $31.5-$63 per person, known for traditional Thai cuisine and classic ambiance.
2.5 Cost of Activities in Thailand & Entertainment in Thailand
Estimating the cost of activities in Thailand can be tricky, as it depends on the places you plan to visit during your trip. Some activities are free, but major attractions usually have entrance fees. Here are some examples of prices for must-see sites in Thailand:
Grand Palace: 500 baht (approximately $14)
Wat Pho Temple: 200 baht (about $6)
Safari Park: starting from 750 baht (around $21)
Wat Arun: 100 baht (about $3)
Wat Pho Temple: 200 baht (around $6)
For free entrance, you can visit Erawan Shrine in Bangkok at Ratchaprasong, near the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel and Central World but a merit package will cost you 400 THB. It is very revered and there is an ancient belief that this temple is sacred to all Thai people.
Thailand is one of the best countries in the world to find high-quality massages at low prices in every city.
No trip to Thailand is complete without a traditional Thai massage. Thailand is one of the best countries in the world to find high-quality massages at low prices in every city.
Here are 3 popular kinds of massages found all over Thailand and their price breakdowns:
Traditional Thai Massage:
Price Range: 200 to 400 Thai Baht (approximately $5 to $11) for 1 hour.
Foot Massage:
Price Range: 200 to 350 Thai Baht (approximately $6 to $10) for 1 hour.
Aromatherapy Massage:
Price Range: 400 to 700 Thai Baht (approximately $11 to $19) for 1 hour.
Worth knowing:
Avoid going to just any random massage parlor as what might look like an average massage parlor from the outside has a dirty secret on the inside offering more than just a massage.
If watching Muay Thai has sparked your interest in trying Thai boxing, you're in the right place. Thailand has some of the most prestigious training camps on the planet, and their value for money is surprisingly good! You can expect to pay from $10 to $26 for a class session.
If you've been wanting to learn diving for a while or if you want to get your PADI Open Water certificate, Thailand is one of the most cost-effective places to learn diving. Diving courses range between $245 and $466 depending on the qualification and duration of the course.
The budget for activities in Thailand varies depending on the places you visit during your trip
For those interested in activities in Thailand, taking a cooking class, guided tours, or even exploring cheap street food stalls are great ways to indudge in the local culture.
3. Prices for a Trip in 2 Weeks to Thailand
3.1 Traveling on a Budget
If you're on a tight budget, opt for budget accommodations like hostels or homestays. For meals, choose street food and local restaurants. Move around on foot or by train and bus to limit your transportation costs.
1 night in a 2-star hotel: from $27/ night.
2 meals per day per person: from $11 to $21.
Transportation: about $11 per day per person.
Activities: about $11 per day per person.
3.2 Comfortable Travel
With a moderate budget, you can explore the country more comfortably. Alternate between mid-range hotels and more refined restaurants. Thus, the cost of a two-week trip to Thailand should not exceed $1836 per person if you travel as a pair (excluding airfare). If you opt for private car travel and guidance from a local guide, this will allow you to visit more distant places and discover the unique culture of the "Land of Smiles". For these additional services, budget around $43 to $54 per day.
1 night in a 3-star hotel: from $47/ night.
2 meals per day per person: from $21 to $32.
Transportation: about $32 per day per person.
Activities: about $11 to $16 per day per person.
3.3 Luxury Stay
Finally, if you have a higher budget, stay in luxurious hotels and savor refined gastronomy. Opt for a personalized luxury tour with a English-speaking guide and air-conditioned private car. The estimated budget for a two-week trip to Thailand will start from $2700 per person (based on at least two participants):
1 night in a 4 or 5-star hotel: from $105 / night.
2 meals per day per person: from $32.
Transportation: about $32 per day per person.
Activities: about $21 per day per person.
These figures are estimated based on the actual costs of many visitors who have traveled to Thailand. They are provided as indicative.
4. How to Save Your Money When You're in Thailand
Live Like a Local: Use local buses, eat street food, and drink beer instead of pricier alcohol. Avoid tourist hotspots.
Book Tours Locally: Wait until you arrive and book activities like cooking classes or jungle treks with Kampá Tour. Negotiate with our friendly travel agents for unbeatable deals!
Eat Street Food: Street stalls or night markets offer delicious food and cheap meals, often under 50 THB. This is also the places that you'll find the authentic side of Thailand.
Avoid Western Food: Western food venues in Thailand are considerably more expensive than Thai food, with main dishes costing between 170-340 THB. Due to the need for imported ingredients, these prices are higher than what you'd pay for Thai cuisine.
Avoid Western food when you're in Thailand - Remember that you're traveling!
Negotiate Tuk-Tuk Fares: Agree on a fare before your tuk-tuk ride to avoid being overcharged.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can be costly. Opt for water, take advantage of happy hour deals, and buy beer from 7-Eleven.
Use Hospitality Exchange Websites: Platforms like Couchsurfing offer free stays with locals, providing a local perspective and saving money.
With so many stalls, take your time to look around. Similar products often vary in price, so a little patience can help you find the best deals. Watch what other tourists and locals pay for items to understand the typical price range and strengthen your bargaining position.
Remember to showcasual interest rather than eagerness. Sellers are more likely to offer discounts if you don't appear overly enthusiastic.
Begin negotiations with a low offer. Sellers often set prices higher than what they’re willing to accept, sometimes up to 50% more. Buying multiple items from one stall can lead to better deals. But if negotiations stall, politely walk away. This can prompt sellers to offer a better price to avoid losing a sale. Keep the process light-hearted and fun. Smile, engage with sellers, and maybe even learn a few Thai phrases - starting from how to say Hello. Enjoying yourself can lead to unexpected bargains.
Some phrases for you to bargain in Thailand
Other tips:
Travel between June and September for discounts on airfare and hotels.
Walk or use public transportation instead of taxis or tuk-tuks. In cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai, motorbike taxis via Grab are quick and cheap, starting from $1 to $2.
Book activities online in advance for discounts. Negotiate tuk-tuk fares to avoid overcharging; use them only for short trips in areas like the Grand Palace or Sukhumvit.
Set a budget to avoid overspending on shopping, spas, and bars.
Withdraw money from ATMs for better exchange rates.
Thailand's southern coast is home to more than 500 islands, making it a must-visit destination.
With this itinerary, you can explore the complete panorama of Thailand, from the lively capital of Bangkok to the mountainous regions and dreamy islands. The cost of this itinerary will entirely depend on your choices regarding accommodation, means of transportation, etc.
And don't forget that Kampá Tour gives the best Thai Tours,so you'll embark on a well-curated journey that captures the essence of Thailand, offering a hassle-free and deeply enriching experience. Choose Kampá Tour by Thai Tours to guide you through Thailand's breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making every moment of your trip unforgettable.
Our Final Words,
Thailand remains a budget-friendly destination, offering options for all budgets. In summary, Thailand is absolutely a destination that offers a balance of affordability and quality experiences. You'll find a wide range of activities, restaurants, and accommodations there. I hope this information will be helpful in preparing for your trip. For a serene and leisurely journey, fulfilling all your desires, consider booking a custom-made organized trip with our team to explore Thailand.
>>> Every month, everything you need to know about Thailand:
1/7.Chiang Rai is renowned for its architecturally significant temple, distinguished by its vibrantly colored facade. This temple is known as:
Chiang Rai is famous for its iconic temple called Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. This temple stands out for its unique, all-white architecture adorned with intricate details.
2/7.What is the name of the currency used in Thailand?
In Thailand, the currency used is the Baht. The currency unit is usually symbolized by the symbol "฿" or abbreviated as THB (Thai Baht).
3/7.What is the official name of Thailand from the following options:
Thailand is officially known as the "Kingdom of Thailand". Previously it was called "Siam", but the country changed its name in 1939 to the Kingdom of Thailand, reflecting its national and cultural identity.
4/7.Among the following options, which festival holds the distinction of being the most renowned in Thailand?
Songkran, also known as the Water Festival, is celebrated to mark the Thai New Year by the Buddhist calendar. This traditional celebration takes place every year from April 13 to 15 throughout Thailand.
5/7.Which place is named "The Land of Smiles"?
The smile, mainly a symbol of joy and sympathy in the West, carries various meanings in Thailand. In addition to felicity, it can be used for thanks, to make amends or to end heated discussions.
6/7.Which region of Thailand is associated with Isan?
Isan, sometimes spelled Isaan, is a region located in northeastern Thailand, sharing its borders with Laos and Cambodia. The life and culture there are particularly interesting, as it is influenced by the Laotian and Cambodian neighbors. There is a unique blend of cultures, cuisines, etc., giving Isan a very different look from other parts of Thailand.
7/7.Which spicy and aromatic Thai dish consists of stir-fried rice noodles, among the following options?
Pad Thai is an emblematic dish of Thai cuisine (national dish), appreciated for its mixture of spicy, sweet, salty, and sour flavors.
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Comments (2)
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Rebecca26 Jul 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.
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Kampá Tour27 Jul 2024
Absolutely! While Thailand may not be as cheap as it once was, you can still save money by avoiding big resorts, using local buses, and choosing your destinations wisely.
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