Thailand is one of the most popular countries to visit in Southeast Asia due to its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine. But is Thailand expensive? And can you visit on a budget?

The answer isn't straightforward, as it depends on a myriad of factors, such as your travel style, preferences, and the activities you are most interested in.

In this article, we'll dive deep into the cost of travelling to Thailand, breaking down expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Whether you're a backpacker on a shoestring budget or a luxury traveller with a penchant for the finer things, we'll provide practical tips and tricks to make your Thai adventure both memorable and affordable.

Flying to Thailand on a budget: Tips on how to make air travel cheaper

I have noticed more than ever the last few years that flying costs are increasing significantly. Flights to Thailand that used to cost me £400 are now over £1000. Here I will to show you how to save money on flights, making a significant difference in your Thai travel budget, allowing you to allocate funds to experiences, accommodations, and other travel essentials.

Here are some practical tips to help you save on airfare:

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Times

Fly Mid-Week: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday usually offer the lowest fares.
Avoid Peak Travel Times: Major holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as school vacation periods, are the most expensive times to fly. Flying off-season can save you a lot.

Use Flight Comparison Websites and Apps

Tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Trip allow you to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. They can also show price trends and alert you to price drops.

Book in Advance

Generally, booking 6 months in advance for international flights and 2 months for domestic flights can secure better deals. Gone are the days of last minute cheap holiday deals.
Airlines sometimes offer discounts on unsold seats a few days before departure, but this is riskier.

Travel Light

Avoid excess baggage fees by packing light. Check your airline's size and weight limits to avoid surprises.

Book Connecting Flights Separately

Sometimes, booking each leg of your journey separately can be cheaper than a direct flight or a single booking through one airline. Just ensure you allow enough time between flights as you will need to transfer your own luggage. I would make sure to leave aside a minimum of 3 hours for this process.

Utilise Credit Card Points and Airline Miles

Many credit cards such as American Express offer travel rewards that can be converted into airline miles or used to book flights directly. Sign up for cards with large sign-up bonuses and high points earning potential on travel purchases.

Use Incognito Mode When Searching

Some websites track your visits and may increase prices based on your search history. Using incognito or private browsing mode can help you avoid this.

Which airlines go to Thailand?

Direct flights to Thailand from the UK leave daily with Thai Airways, British Airways and Eva Air. These all fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport which is a major international hub for Thailand and Southeast Asia as a whole.

Direct flights to Thailand can be found easily from major European airports also with Thai Airways and airlines such as KLM, Lufthansa, and Finnair, depending on which country you are departing.

Can I fly direct to the Thai islands?

Due to a lower demand and smaller airports, Phuket is the only Thai island that can take larger aircraft.

Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar and Etihad provide regular indirect flights from Europe to Phuket with an easy transfer. This can often be a quicker and more cost effective option than flying through Bangkok.

From Phuket you can travel to the Andaman islands easily

Are budget airlines in Asia safe?

Aviation safety standards can vary significantly across different regions of the world, including between Southeast Asia and Europe. These differences can stem from several factors, including regulatory oversight, infrastructure development, airline operational standards, pilot training, and maintenance practices.

The safety record of budget airlines in Thailand and Southeast Asia has significantly improved over the past decades. Many low-cost carriers in the region now boast safety records comparable to those of their full-service counterparts. Some budget airlines have consistently received high safety ratings from aviation safety audit organisations and have been operating without major incidents for years.

Reliable budget airlines in Thailand

AirAsia

Thai AirAsia operates a wide network of domestic and international flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand.

Nok Air

Nok Air is a low-cost airline in Thailand that offers domestic and international flights and is particularly known for its friendly service.

Bangkok airways

Whilst Bangkok Airways does not market itself as a budget airline in Asia, they are priced competitively, offering a highly rated boutique service with an extensive airport network in Thailand.

Thai Lion Air

Part of a larger airline group, Thai Lion Air offers reliable, budget flights across Thailand and to international destinations with its modern fleet of aircraft.

What are the cheapest destinations in Thailand?

Like most countries, Thailand offers a huge variety of places to visit that will cater to different budgets.

Whilst Thailand is generally still considered an affordable country to visit, some destinations stand out for their low cost of living and travel expenses. Here are some of the cheapest destinations in Thailand, ideal for travellers on a budget:

Chiang Mai

Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its stunning temples, vibrant night markets, and laid-back atmosphere. The cost of accommodations, food, and activities here is generally lower than in Thailand's larger cities and popular island destinations. Chiang Mai also serves as a gateway to the region's hill tribes, incredible wildlife and natural landscapes.

Pai

Particularly popular amongst backpackers, Pai is a small town in the mountains of northern Thailand, excellent for those in search of a serene retreat. With its affordable guesthouses, inexpensive local eateries, and relaxed vibe, Pai is a haven for budget travellers.

Krabi Province

While some parts of Krabi, like Ao Nang and Railay Beach, can be pricier due to their popularity, many affordable areas remain within the province. Places like Krabi Town and the more secluded beaches offer budget accommodations and cheap street food. It's also a great base for exploring nearby attractions and islands without the higher prices of Phuket or Koh Phi Phi.

Koh Lanta

Known for its laid-back vibe, long beaches, and affordable accommodations, Koh Lanta is a favourite among budget travellers. It's an excellent place for snorkelling, diving, and exploring the local culture without the crowds found in more visited destinations.

Koh Chang

Located near the Cambodian border, Koh Chang is the third-largest island in Thailand, offering a mix of white sand beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls. It has a wide variety of budget-friendly accommodations, from hostels to bungalows, and activities like trekking, kayaking, and snorkelling are readily available. Even the more luxurious boutique hotels in Koh Chang are cheaper than you will find on other Thai islands.
You can read my comprehensive Koh Chang travel guide here.

How to find cheap accommodation in Thailand

Thailand offers a wide range of affordable lodging options, from hostels and guesthouses to budget hotels and bungalows. Here are some practical tips to help you secure the best deals and enjoy a comfortable stay without breaking the bank:

Use Reliable Accommodation Platforms

Utilise popular booking websites like Agoda, Booking.com, and Hostelworld. These platforms provide a wide range of options, user reviews, and often feature special deals or discounts. They also offer the backup of customer service if something goes wrong with your booking or stay and many of these sites offer free cancellation.

Time your booking well

If you are travelling during peak season, try to book your accommodation in advance so you have the full range to choose from.
If you're travelling in the off-season, you might find better deals by booking last minute, as properties lower prices to fill rooms.

Stay Flexible

If your travel dates are flexible, use booking sites' flexible date search features to find the cheapest rates. Sometimes, shifting your stay by just a day or two can save you a significant amount.

Look for new openings

New hostels, guesthouses, and hotels often offer discounts to attract their first customers. Watch for opening specials to snag great deals on new, clean accommodations.

Consider Location

Staying a little further from major tourist attractions or the city centre can save you money. Just make sure public transport or affordable taxis (like Grab) are readily available.

Negotiate for Long Stays

If you plan to stay in one place for a week or longer, negotiate a lower rate directly with the property. Many are willing to offer discounts for extended stays.

Use Social Media and Forums

Join travel forums and Facebook groups related to travelling in Thailand. Members often share recent deals, new openings, and personal recommendations for budget accommodations.

What are the cheapest types of accommodation in Thailand?

Hostels

Hostels are the go-to option for most budget travellers in Thailand. Particularly popular amongst those wanting to meet new people, many hostels offer shared dormitory rooms for as little as £3 a night. Many hostels also offer private rooms for those who want more privacy.
Cost: Prices can start as low as 100-300 THB (approximately £2-£6.50 GBP) per night for a bed in a dorm room.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses in Thailand offer a personal touch with private rooms and basic amenities. They're typically family-run and offer insight into Thai culture and hospitality.
Many guesthouses can be found on booking sites such as Agoda and Booking.com whilst others can be found by word of mouth, in this instance I recommend joining Facebook groups and Reddit to find good guesthouses.
Cost: Prices for basic rooms can range from 300-600 THB (approximately £6.50-£13 GBP) per night.

Budget Hotels

Budget hotels offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning; they tend to provide more comfort and privacy than hostels or guesthouses.
Cost: Prices can vary widely but start at around 500-2,000 THB (approximately £11-£45 GBP) per night.

Capsule Hotels and Pod Hostels

A relatively new concept in Thailand, these offer a bed in a small, private capsule or pod, which is cheaper than traditional hotel rooms but offers more privacy than a hostel dorm.
Cost: Rates start at around 300-700 THB (approximately £6.50-£15 THB) per night.

Bungalows and Beach Huts

You can often find affordable bungalows or beach huts in beach areas. They range from very basic to moderately comfortable, and what is better than being able to walk straight out onto the sand in the morning?
Cost: Basic beach bungalows in Thailand can start from as low as 300-800 THB (approximately £6.50-£17.50 GBP) per night, depending on the location and season.

What is the cheapest way of getting around Thailand?

Thailand is a well-connected country with a good transport network, including flights, trains, buses, cars, taxis, ferries and scooters. Some of these will be cheaper than others; below are the most cost-effective ways of getting around Thailand, and newsflash: it won't be by flying!

You can check my more comprehensive guide on how to get around Thailand here.

Buses

Long-Distance Buses: Thailand's long-distance buses connect all major towns and cities. There are both government-run and private bus services available, offering varying levels of comfort from standard to VIP coaches.
Local Buses: In cities and towns, local bus services provide an inexpensive way to get around, though they can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

There are three major bus terminals in Bangkok, each serving particular regions.

Morchit Bus Terminal in the north of the city. From here you can travel north toChiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, and Sukhothai, as well as Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Mukdahan, and Nong Khai in Isan.
Sai Tai Mai Bus Terminal: This is where you will depart from when heading south to areas on the Andaman Coast and along the Gulf, such as Phuket, Krabi and Trang, as well as Chumphon, Suratthani, and Hat Yai.
Ekkamai Bus Terminal: Head here if you want to go east. Frequent buses depart to Pattaya and towns in the Chonburi region. Buses will also take you to the eastern coastline, includingRayong, Ban Phe (for Koh Samet), Chanthaburi or Trat (for Koh Chang), as well as buses to Chumphon and Suratthani (for Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui).

Local bus fares start from as low as 10-30 THB (22p-66p) for short rides within cities.

Intercity Standard Buses start around 100 THB (£2.20) for shorter distances to 500 THB (£11) or more for longer routes (e.g., Bangkok to Chiang Mai).

Express and VIP Bus fares can range from around 200 THB (£4.40) to over 1,000 THB (£22) for the longest routes or luxury services.

Trains

For longer distances, third-class train tickets are incredibly cheap and offer a scenic way to travel between major cities and regions. Fares can be as low as 50-100 THB (£1-£2) for considerable distances. Just be aware that trains can be slower than buses and might not always run on time.

Motorbike Rentals

Renting a motorbike is a cost-effective and flexible way to explore at your own pace, especially in areas not well-served by public transport. Daily rental rates can start from 150-250 THB (£3.30-£5.50). This option is best suited for experienced riders when travelling longer distances.

On islands and in beach resort areas, new riders are encouraged to practice a little before renting a scooter.

Make sure your travel insurance covers motorbike riding if this is the option you go for. Be aware that Thailand does not have a good road safety reputation, so be careful when riding.

How to barter in Thailand

Bartering, also known as haggling, is a common practice in Thailand, especially in the markets. It's part of the shopping culture and can be a fun way to engage with local vendors whilst securing a better price for goods.

However, it requires a delicate balance of respect, patience, and strategy. Here's a guide to help you master the art of bartering in Thailand.

Understanding When to Bargain

Where to Bargain: Bartering is most acceptable in open-air markets, street stalls, and some independent shops. It's not customary in malls, supermarkets, or branded stores. It is also common to barter with tuk tuk drivers.
Recognising the Right Items: Handcrafted goods, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs are typically negotiable. Fixed prices are more common for food and electronic goods.

Preparing to Bargain

Know the Market Rate: Don't dive in on the first market stall; many of the stalls sell the same thing; get a general idea of the price of the item you are interested in so you can decide what you are willing to pay.
Set a Budget: Decide the maximum amount you're willing to pay for an item to avoid getting caught in the moment and overspending.

Bartering Etiquette

Start with a Smile: Be friendly, this will set a positive tone for the interaction.
Open with a Lower Offer: It's customary to respond to the initial price with an offer that's about 30-50% lower. This leaves room for negotiation.
Be Respectful: Always remain polite and respectful, even if talks become challenging. Avoid showing frustration or disrespect.
Take Your Time: Bartering is often a slow process; don't rush it.
Use Body Language: Non-verbal cues can be powerful. If you walk away or look like you are about to leave, the vendor will be more encouraged to lower the price.
Know When to Walk Away: If the price doesn't meet your expectations, it's okay to decline and walk away politely.

Advanced Tips

Bundle Items: See more than one thing you like the look of? You can often get a better deal by buying several items at once.
Cash is King: The Thai people prefer cash; negotiations will stall if you try paying with a card.
Learn a Few Thai Phrases: Knowing basic Thai greetings such as hello and thank you will be well received.
Shop Around: Don’t settle on the first item you like. Compare prices at different stalls to ensure you're getting a good deal.
Maintain Perspective: Remember that while saving money is great, the difference of a few baht is minimal for most travellers but can mean a lot to local vendors.

While bargaining is part of the Thai culture, it's essential to bargain ethically. The goal is to reach a fair price that respects the vendor's work and sustains their livelihood. Overly aggressive haggling over small amounts can be disrespectful and counterproductive.

Surprise costs when visiting Thailand

When planning a holiday in Thailand, it's important to note there are hidden costs you may not be aware of until you arrive.

Whilst Thailand is renowned for its affordability, certain expenses aren't always apparent at the planning stage. Here are some hidden costs to consider:

National Park Fees: Thailand's national parks, including popular ones like Khao Yai, Ao Phang Nga, and the Similan Islands, charge entrance fees that vary significantly. Foreign tourists often pay a higher rate than locals, with fees ranging from 200 to 400 THB (£4.50-£9) per person for most parks.
Island Fees: Some islands or specific beaches charge a conservation or entry fee to help maintain the area. For example, Maya Bay in Phi Phi Islands has an entry fee of 400 THB (£9).
Temple Dress Codes: While not a direct cost, many temples require visitors to dress modestly. If you're not prepared, you may need to rent or buy appropriate clothing at or near the temple site. This happened to me when visiting the Royal Palace in Bangkok, I had to buy a rather dashing, very touristic Thailand t shirt.
Tourist Attraction Prices: Admission prices for certain attractions, like historical sites, museums, and theme parks, can be higher for international visitors compared to local rates.
Transportation Surprises: While transportation in Thailand can be affordable, there are situations where costs can escalate. For instance, tuk-tuks and taxis might charge higher rates in tourist-heavy areas, and failing to negotiate the price before starting your journey can lead to unexpected expenses.
Service Charges and VAT: Some restaurants and hotels add a service charge (typically 10%) and VAT (7%) to the bill. While this practice is common worldwide, it's something to keep in mind as it can slightly increase your expected expenses.
ATM Fees: Withdrawing money from ATMs in Thailand incurs a fee per transaction for foreign cards, which can be around 220 THB (£4.80). Budget as best as you can before deciding how much to take out, thus limiting the amount of transactions you need to make.

So, that's all really! Is Thailand expensive? Can you visit Thailand on a budget?

The answer is absolutely yes. Whilst general trends show costs of a holiday in Thailand are increasing, it remains a relatively affordable destination compared to most Western countries.