Thailand travel tips – useful things to know before you visit

Last updated: October 2026

Thailand has the tropical beaches, beautiful temples and enough good food to plan your entire day around eating. It’s also the country I keep coming back to. So often, in fact, that Chiang Mai has become the closest thing I have to home. And after spending many months here, I’ve picked up a few things worth sharing beyond “pack sunscreen” and “try pad Thai”.

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Thailand is fairly easy to travel around, but that doesn’t mean everything is obvious when you first arrive. When should you visit? Do you need a visa? Can you pay by card, or will you spend half your holiday looking for an ATM? And should you really rent that scooter?

These Thailand travel tips cover the useful things to know before you visit, from planning your trip to figuring out everyday practicalities once you’re here. I’ve combined the essentials with my own experiences, honest opinions and a few lessons learnt along the way – all updated for 2026.

Before you get into the details, here are a few essentials to help you plan your Thailand trip.

Let’s start with the most obvious one:

When should I travel to Thailand?

The short answer: November to February is a good time to visit much of Thailand. But these are also some of the busiest and most expensive months – and the best timing depends on where you’re going.

Thailand broadly has three seasons: hot(March to May), cool(November to February) and wet(roughly May to October). But the south follows different rainfall patterns, so don’t assume beach weather is the same on both coasts.

In the north, mornings and evenings can get surprisingly chilly during the cool season, especially in the mountains. Love that about Chiang Mai. Bangkok, meanwhile, gave me some of the hottest and most uncomfortable days I’ve experienced in Thailand. All that concrete probably doesn’t help. You might get more used to the heat, but I wouldn’t promise you’ll stop complaining about it.

When to avoid travelling to Thailand?

Chiang Mai and northern Thailand: I’d avoid planning a trip during burning season, broadly February to April, although the timing and severity vary each year. I’ve never stayed through the worst of it, but even towards the end of February, I’ve noticed the air becoming increasingly polluted. That’s already enough for me – I wouldn’t choose those months for a holiday here.

Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Phuket and Koh Lanta: the Andaman coast’s rainy season is roughly May to October. That doesn’t mean nonstop rain or that you absolutely shouldn’t go, but it’s less reliable for a beach holiday. I experienced rain in Koh Phi Phi so heavy it genuinely felt like the world was ending.

Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao: these islands have a different rainy season, with the heaviest rain generally falling towards the end of the year. October and November – and potentially December – are less reliable for beach plans.

Do I need a visa for Thailand?

No.
But it depends on your passport and how long you’re staying. Travellers from many countries can visit Thailand without applying for a visa in advance, but the permitted stay depends on the rules for their nationality.

Your passport should generally be valid for at least six months after arrival, with at least one blank page. You may also be asked for proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay.

Thailand’s entry rules change often, so check the official Thai e-Visa website, your local Thai embassy and your own government’s travel advice before travelling.

And check the date you’re allowed to stay until when you enter. Overstaying can mean fines and more serious consequences, so don’t leave that bit to guesswork.

Don’t forget your Thailand Digital Arrival Card

Before arriving, you’ll also need to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online. You can submit it within the three days before arrival. It’s separate from a visa – you still need it even if you qualify for visa-free entry.

It’s free, so use the official TDAC website rather than a third-party site charging to do it for you. Have your passport, travel details and accommodation address ready, and save the confirmation email.

Do I need vaccinations for Thailand?

Not really.
For most travellers, no vaccination certificate is required to enter Thailand. An exception is yellow fever: you may need proof of vaccination if you’re arriving from – or have had a long airport transit in – a country with yellow fever risk.

But entry requirements and recommended vaccinations are two different things. Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date, and speak to a travel clinic about hepatitis A and any other vaccinations recommended for your trip, such as hepatitis B or rabies. What you need depends on your plans, length of stay and medical history.

Scared of malaria? Don’t be!

In Thai urban areas and popular tourist destinations there is no risk of malaria transmission. It does exist in rural and forested border areas though. Check your itinerary with a travel health professional.

Either way, don’t forget mosquito repellent – you can easily buy it once you’re in Thailand. Dengue is also a risk here, so avoiding bites matters even where malaria isn’t a concern.

Healthcare tip!

In general, the Thai healthcare system is one of the best in the world, so if anything happens (knock on wood), I’m sure you’ll receive proper care. Another useful thing to know when going to Thailand is that prices for treatments can be pretty steep, so don’t forget to buy insurance. I use Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing. Before buying, check the policy’s coverage, limits and exclusions – especially if you’re planning to ride a scooter or take part in sports.

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What currency will I be using?

Thai baht (THB). You can check the current exchange rate in the Wise app, which is also handy for converting prices into your home currency. Thai Baht is a pretty stable currency. Very easy to learn and use. And you kind of have to learn it…

Card payments are more widely accepted now, and you won’t always pay an extra charge for using one – although the 3% card surcharge still makes an appearance. But cash is still king, especially at markets, street-food stalls and smaller businesses, so always have some with you.

ATMs are easy to find, but withdrawals with a foreign card come with a flat fee from the Thai bank. Expect around 250 baht per withdrawal, although some charge more. Check the fee on screen before confirming. Taking out a larger amount less often helps avoid paying it repeatedly.

My tip: bring a Wise card

I use Wise for payments and cash withdrawals in Thailand. It offers a monthly withdrawal allowance without Wise withdrawal fees – check yours in the app. Thai ATM fees and any currency conversion fees still apply.

It’s the best and the only travel card you’re even going to need!

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ATM tip!

Decline the machine’s conversion and choose Thai baht, not your home currency.

Do I need to learn Thai?

Since Thailand is a touristy country, English is widely spoken. Well, I call it Thai-English, because sometimes it’s really hard to understand what Thai people mean. Surprisingly, the biggest difficulties I encountered in Bangkok. But even there with Google translator and some “sign language”, you can always come to an understanding.

There are a few useful phrases that you can learn to gain a few points among Thais:

Hello = sa-wat-dee ka (female) | sa-wat-dee kap (male)
Thank yo: kop-koon ka (female) | kop-koon kap (male)
Delicious: a-roy
How much?:nee gee baht?
Too expensive: feng-mak-pie
And if you’re vegan/vegetarian:
I’m vegan: chan gin jey kaa/krab
I am vegetarian: chan gin mangsawerat kaa/krab.

Funny note

Whenever I tried to speak Thai or pronounce the names of bus stops, even simple sounding ones, Thai people just looked at me blankly. Sometimes it took 3 or 4 times for them to get what I mean. It’s all about inflection.

There’s more to communicating in Thailand than getting the pronunciation right. For a little help understanding the less obvious bits, read these Thai language and culture tips.

Ok, but where should I even visit?

When you think of Thailand, you probably imagine sandy beaches, palm trees and longtail boats. And while the south delivers on all of that, there’s plenty worth exploring beyond the islands. Here’s a quick guide to deciding where to go.

Bangkok: big-city chaos

Thailand’s capital is big, bustling and sometimes a bit tiring, but it’s worth spending a few days here for the temples, markets, food and an introduction to the country that definitely won’t be quiet.

Northern Thailand: temples, mountains and coffee

If you’re more interested in mountains, smaller towns and temple visits than beach days, head north.

• Chiang Mai – temples, markets and enough good food and coffee to keep me coming back for months at a time. It’s also famous for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. If you’re visiting during the celebrations, my Yi Peng itinerary will help you plan your time.If you’re deciding where to base yourself, here’s my guide to staying in Nimman.
• Pai – a small town surrounded by mountains, popular with backpackers and a good base for exploring the countryside.
• Ban Rak Thai – a lakeside village near the Myanmar border, known for its tea plantations and Chinese heritage. Part of a famous Mae Hong Son Loop. I’ve visited twice, and the early-morning views over the misty lake are worth staying overnight for.

For something different, I also spent three days at Pa Pae Meditation Retreat, between Chiang Mai and Pai. If you’re curious about trying a retreat, I’ve written about what the experience was actually like – including the practical bits I worried about beforehand.

Southern Thailand: beaches and islands

• Phuket – Thailand’s largest island, with plenty of beaches, hotels and nightlife. For something more meaningful, you can also volunteer at Soi Dog Foundation. I volunteered there myself, and spending time with the rescued dogs was a highlight of my stay.
• Krabi – on the mainland, with dramatic limestone cliffs, beaches and boat trips to nearby islands.
• Phi Phi Islands – striking scenery and popular beaches, but don’t expect a quiet island escape.
• Koh Samui – beach resorts, cafés and options for a island holiday. Definitely not my personal favourite.
• Koh Phangan – famous for the Full Moon Party, but with quieter beaches and yoga retreats too.
• Koh Tao – especially popular for diving and snorkelling.

My advice? Pick a few places you actually want to spend time in, rather than trying to fit half the country into two weeks. You don’t want your main memory of Thailand to be the inside of a minivan…which are usually so uncomfortable! Haha

How do I travel around Thailand?

Thailand has plenty of transport options, from the almost luxurious to the definitely not for the faint of heart – with prices to match. I’ve tried everything below, and the best choice depends on your route, budget and how much of your holiday you’re willing to spend in transit.

Domestic flights: best for saving time

Flying is usually the quickest option for longer distances, especially if you’re travelling between northern and southern Thailand. There are airports in destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui and Surat Thani.

I usually check and buy flights on Trip.com. It’s the best platform for Asia travels. Prices can be reasonable when booked ahead, but check baggage allowances and the airport location before booking. A cheap flight isn’t necessarily such a bargain once you add luggage and transfers, especially when going to the islands.

Bangkok has two main airports: Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK)– so check which one you need!

Trains: especially good for an overnight journey

Trains aren’t always the fastest option, but an overnight sleeper can turn the journey into part of the experience – and save you a night’s accommodation.

Bangkok–Chiang Mai is a popular sleeper route, and one I’ve travelled in both first and second class. You can also take a train south to Surat Thani, then continue towards the islands.

For overnight journeys, check that you’re booking a sleeper berth rather than a seat, and book ahead if you want more choice.

Not sure which class to choose? I’ve written guides to both:

• Second-class sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai – what to expect and how to book.
• First-class sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai – the cabin experience and how I got my tickets.

Coaches: comfort varies – a lot

Coaches connect destinations across Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Phuket. They can be a budget-friendly option, but pay attention to the service you’re booking: you might get a spacious reclining seat, or spend hours questioning your life choices.

My favourite journey was on a Super VIP 20-seater bus, which looked a bit like a spaceship. The extra space really does make a difference on a long overnight trip.

If you’re travelling between Chiang Mai and Bangkok, here’s how to book the overnight Super VIP bus.

A little warning about minibuses

Minibuses are my least favourite way to travel around Thailand. Unless you book a newer, more spacious VIP option, expect cramped seats, very little legroom and a journey that feels much longer than it actually is. A few hours in one can seriously test your love for travelling. Personally, I avoid them altogether. I’d rather change my plans than spend hours folded into one.

Ferries and boats: getting to the islands

For many island trips, the last part of your journey will be by ferry or speedboat. Longtail boats also serve places such as Railay Beach in Krabi, as well as beach-hopping trips and private excursions.

Check which pier you’re departing from, whether transfers are included and how much connection time you have. Sea conditions can affect services, especially during rainy season, so leave some breathing room before an onward flight.

And while a private longtail boat can be pricey, sharing one can make it more affordable. Because hey, going to Thailand and not taking a longtail boat is like going to Paris not visiting the Eiffel Tower. It’s kind of a must!

How do I get around in the cities?

Getting around locally looks different depending on where you are. Bangkok has a useful rail network, while elsewhere you’ll probably rely more on taxis, ride-hailing apps and songthaews.

Grab, Bolt and taxis

Grab and Bolt are handy apps to install before your trip. You enter your destination, check the fare and book a ride without having to explain where you’re going. Compare both, because prices and availability can differ.

Regular taxis can also be good value. In Bangkok, ask the driver to use the meter rather than agreeing to an inflated fixed fare. And remember: whichever car you choose, you’ll still be sitting in the same traffic.

BTS and MRT in Bangkok

No, not the Korean boyband. BTS is Bangkok’s Skytrain, while the MRT network includes underground and elevated lines. Both are useful for sightseeing and avoiding the traffic below.

The MRT is handy for parts of the old city, including getting close to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace – so it’s definitely useful for tourists too.

Read my full guide to getting around Bangkok for the pros and cons of the different options.

Songthaews

Songthaews are converted pickup trucks with two covered benches in the back. You’ll see them in places including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket and Krabi.

Some follow fixed routes, while others operate more like shared taxis. Check the destination and price before getting in, rather than assuming they all work the same way. If you’re sharing with other passengers, expect a few detours.

Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks are probably my most hated form of transport in Thailand – both to sit in and to get stuck driving behind. But I’ll admit that trying one at least once is part of the Thailand experience.

After two or three rides, the novelty wears off. They’re neither particularly cheap nor comfortable, so don’t expect them to become your everyday transport. Always agree on the fare before getting in and be clear about where you want to go.

Local buses

Bangkok has everything from older buses with open windows to modern air-conditioned ones. They all have different prices, but no matter what you pay, you can be sure that it’s the cheapest means of transport. Figuring out the routes and stops can take a bit more effort though.

You buy tickets onboard from conductors who usually don’t speak English, so learn the names of the places you want to go, or get the Thai name up on Google. Have your destination written in Thai or ready on your phone. We even had friendly locals explain to the conductor where we were trying to go. I honestly lost count of the ways I tried to pronounce “Sanam Pao”, our nearest stop in Bangkok.

Scooters

For the brave? Not necessarily. Yes, traffic in Thailand is chaotic and you’ll see plenty of bad driving. You can get used to it, though, and if you’re an experienced rider, a scooter can be a great way to get around places like Chiang Mai and Phuket. But being able to rent one doesn’t mean you’re legally allowed-or ready-to ride it.

You need a licence valid in Thailand for the motorcycle you’re riding. For many visitors, that means a motorcycle licence from home plus the appropriate International Driving Permit. Riding without the right licence can also invalidate your insurance.

Always wear a helmet, check your insurance covers riding, and never leave your passport as a deposit. If you’ve never ridden before, Thai traffic isn’t the place to teach yourself.

Read my blog post to find out how to drive a scooter in Thailand legally and what kind of driver’s permit you need. Because again – yes, you do need one!

If you’re staying in Thailand longer…

I have a guide to getting a Thai driving licence. The documents you need, the whole process – it’s all there!

What should I wear when visiting temples?

Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, with around 95% of the population identifying as Buddhist. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples, sometimes even before entering the grounds. This applies to everyone, so bring something you can easily throw on over your usual hot-weather outfit. In my experience, though, women seem more likely to get shouted at for getting it wrong. Just a little sexist, but based on real events.

You’ll also usually need to take your shoes off before entering temple buildings, so footwear that’s easy to slip on and off makes life easier.

Will I be safe when travelling in Thailand?

I’ve generally felt safe travelling in Thailand. I’ve been coming here and living here on and off for the past five years, and I haven’t personally had a situation where I felt unsafe.

That doesn’t mean nothing can happen, of course. Keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, just as you would anywhere else. There are also some districts in Bangkok where I wouldn’t wander even by day, but apart from that Thailand is a very safe country.

Is it easy to make Thai friends?

Let’s just start by saying, that Thai people are very friendly and polite. Everywhere you go, strangers greet you with a smile and a Sawasdee ka. But in my experience, friendly conversations don’t automatically turn into friendships, especially when there’s a language barrier. And when you’re out at a bar, Thai’s seem to keep to their own cliques – fair enough. So unless you’re an outgoing person who likes to approach people, don’t expect to be invited into their group.

Can I drink tap water?

Short answer: no! But bottled drinking water is easy to find in any supermarket, and I always buy the biggest bottle possible to avoid collecting a small mountain of plastic. Every plastic bottle you don’t buy, helps!

Tap water is fine for showering and washingthough. I also use it to brush my teeth, without swallowing it.

I also have a WaterWell filter bottle that’s been travelling with me for years. It helps me cut down on single-use bottles and saves me from buying water every time I’m thirsty. Just keep its limits in mind: it doesn’t filter out viruses or all chemical contaminants, so not every water source is suitable.

Get your WaterWell bottle here and cut down on plastic along the way!

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What should I pack?

As little as possible. I seriously overpacked on my first trip, and the truth is, you really don’t need much. Expect plenty of heat, but leave room for rain, enthusiastic air conditioning and cooler nights if you’re heading into the northern mountains.

To keep this Thailand travel tips guide short(er), I’ll skip the obvious parts of your wardrobe like shorts, T-shirts and dresses. Loose, breathable clothes are your friends here.

So what are the things you shouldn’t go without?

• bikinis/swimwear – at least 2 pairs;
• a hat or a cap or something to cover your head with;
• sunglasses;
• long sleeve cotton or linen shirts – bring at least 2 or 3. They’re easy to take off when you’re hot and put on when you get chilly (in the malls or in airconditioned buses). They protect from the sun and are super useful when visiting the temples. And speaking of covering yourself in temples:
• a scarf or a sarong – trust me, you’ll need them;

• one hoodie/jumper/jacket – you’ll find them useful in the northern part of Thailand when the temperature is a bit lower;
• waterproof jacket;
• flip flops, sandals;
• comfortable shoes – necessary for hiking trips or longer walks. Converse or comfy sneakers will be enough;
• reef safe sunblock – always, I repeat ALWAYS have it on. Even if it’s cloudy;
• aloe vera or after sun lotion – even if you think you protect yourself from the sun, there will be at least one time, when you’ll get sunburnt. Trust me;
• mosquito repellant – it’s easy to buy in Thailand, but if you want to opt for some skin safer option, buy it in advance;
• waterproof bag – again, easy to buy in Thailand, but perhaps you can get it for cheaper where you live. And if you’re thinking of boat trips or kayak trips, you’ll absolutely need it;
• travel adapter – the most common plug socket in Thailand is a mix of European 2 pin and US 2 pin style. European plugs fit and work straight away, but Americans be warned: it operates at 230V so even though American plugs will fit in you’ll need an adapter to reduce the voltage;
• power bank;
• little backpack for daily trips;
• quick drying towel;
• some basic medicine like ibuprofen, paracetamol, something for belly problems or sea sickness.

Important

• passport copies;
• a few passport photos (just in case)
• international driving permit – if you’re thinking of renting a scooter or a car it’s a must;

What other essentials should I bring?

Unfortunately, single-use plastic is everywhere in Thailand, and as a tourist, you’ll inevitably contribute to it. Alongside animal exploitation, the sheer amount of plastic was one of the things that upset me most: straws, cups, food containers, endless plastic bags and single-use water bottles. Used for a few minutes, left behind for years.

When shopping at food markets, I sometimes have to say “no bag!” two or three times – and fast, because in the blink of an eye, whatever I’m buying is already wrapped up. Bringing your own reusable alternatives won’t solve the whole problem, but it does mean adding less to it.

So bringing the products from the list below is probably the most useful thing to know before coming to Thailand. And as a mindful tourist you have to add these items to your packing list:

• water bottle withfilter;
• reusable cutlery;
• reusable straws;
• lunch boxes/food containers if you’re planning on eating at food markets – and I’m sure you will!
• tote bags.

These are absolute musts!

Find out more about eco-friendly travel from my guide. Sustainable travelling is not that hard!

Ready for Thailand?

Uff, you made it! I hope these Thailand travel tips have helped you figure out what to expect – and left you feeling ready to actually enjoy the trip, rather than research it forever.

If you’re still putting your plans together, here’s where to go next:

• My Chiang Mai guide – popular spots and less obvious favourites in the city I keep coming back to.
• Getting around Bangkok – because sitting in traffic doesn’t need to be your main activity.
• Quirky facts about Thailand – a few things that might still surprise you.

And if you have any questions, leave a comment below or find me on Instagram. Enjoy Thailand – and maybe see you in Chiang Mai!

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Hi, it’s Aga, the author of this blog. If you found this blog post interesting, entertaining or useful, please think of buying me a virtual coffee to support the site’s running costs. But if you know me, I might actually spend it on coffee 🙂 Thanks!

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