In this blog post, I share my top travel tips for Thailand, and insights I wish I had before embarking on my trip there.

Prior to your trip to Thailand, it is advisable to perform an online check on iVisa to determine the appropriate visa requirements.

Respect is integral to Thai culture, so it is important to always be respectful of Thai people and their beliefs. 

I’ve gathered all the knowledge and insights I’ve gained during my year-long adventure in Thailand to create this comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide Ebook. This guide will be your go-to resource for vacation planning, from determining which locations to visit to booking flights and accommodations to creating your itinerary of activities and experiences. It encompasses a range of day itinerary options suitable for families, less touristy destinations that are off the beaten path, the best locations for sunset viewing, budget-friendly options, Instagram-worthy places, and rainy day activities.

ATM Fees

It costs 220 Baht (6 USD) to withdraw cash from an ATM in Thailand, so I recommend withdrawing money for the duration of your trip in your home country.  

Many places in Thailand only accept cash. Card machines are commonly found in hotels, restaurants, and large businesses. 

The best money card for travelling is the Wise Debit Visa Card as it has low conversion fees and zero transaction fees.  

Sign up and create an account with Wise even if you’re not going to use their card. It’s free to open an account and it’s the easiest way to send money to bank accounts in different currencies/countries. In Thailand, if restaurant card machines aren’t working or they don’t have one they will usually accept a transfer through Wise which is handy if you don’t have enough cash!  

International Driver’s License

If you plan on riding a scooter in Thailand, you should obtain an International Driver’s License for scooters larger than 50ccs and bring your home country’s license with you. Scooter rental companies do not request it, but if you are pulled over by the police, you will be fined if you do not have the proper license. 

When renting a scooter in Thailand, you must either leave your passport or a cash deposit with the scooter rental company.  

Always wear a helmet, not only for your safety but also to avoid being fined. 

In Chiang Mai particularly around the Old City, there are numerous roadblocks where police will stop tourists and fine them 500 Baht if they are not wearing a helmet or have the proper license. 

SIM Card

You can preorder a prepaid 4G SIM card before arriving in Thailand and pick it up at the airport (Bangkok and Phuket airports only). Click here for more information.

eSIMs are the easiest way of getting data without requiring a physical SIM card. I use Airalo for eSIMs everywhere I travel and I highly recommend them.

Travel Medical Insurance

It is recommended to purchase travel medical insurance. I use SafetyWing as they are the most affordable and convenient. No time frame for coverage is needed. You can cancel it anytime, sign up even while you are travelling or keep it going even if you travel to other destinations.

For more information on SafetyWing visit their website. I highly recommend the Nomad Insurance.

Purchasing Alcohol

Selling alcohol is limited to the hours of 11 am – 2 pm and then again from 5 pm until midnight.  

You’ll find that convenience stores won’t allow you to purchase beer, wine or liquor outside these times however some Family Marts and small stores will. 

Bus Trips Between Destinations

If you are travelling by bus to get to one destination from another, make sure to wear warm clothes as the buses are usually very cold from air conditioning.  

Redeem your bus ticket for a free meal at the food stop during long bus rides.

Download Grab

Download the Grab app to your phone for the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Thailand’s cities.  

In Bangkok, there are taxis that don’t run on a meter and the driver will just tell you a price. It’s usually a lot more than it should be. Always make sure to get metered taxis or use Grab so you know exactly what you can expect to pay. 

National Anthem 

If you’re in a public place at 8 am or 6 pm, be prepared to stand up, stop what you’re doing and keep silent as the national anthem plays. This can occur in shopping centers, night markets etc. 

Bangkok Scams

There are many scams, especially in Bangkok, so it’s a good idea to be aware of them before visiting Thailand. Read my blog post – Must-Visit Temples in Bangkok for a list of scams to avoid.

Drink Bottled Water

Because tap water in Thailand can make you sick, use bottled water even when brushing your teeth. 

Temple Attire

Temples are considered holy places, and everyone is required to dress modestly. Both men and women should cover their knees and shoulders. You will not be allowed to enter the temple if you are dressed inappropriately. 

Remove your shoes before entering a temple, a home, or even some stores. 

Bargaining and Tipping

When visiting markets, you can barter with the locals to get a better price. Tipping is appreciated when you receive excellent service.

Locals are paid very little, so even 20 Baht, which may seem insignificant to us, is appreciated by them. 

Always Show Respect

Disrespecting the Thai Royal Family can result in incarceration. Show reverence for monks and Buddha images. 

Avoid placing your feet on the table while sitting, pointing to anything with your feet or touching anybody with your feet. 

Thailand is a diverse and culturally enriching Southeast Asian travel destination. There is so much to see and do in Thailand! Knowing the above Thailand Travel Tips will help provide a better experience. 

A Thailand trip is not complete without visiting these 6 Islands mentioned in this blog post: Best Thailand Island Tours.

Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a payment I will earn a commission. I link these websites because they give the best value/service and not because of the commission I receive. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to pay using these links is completely up to you. I only recommend websites to book through that I use myself and I know will be beneficial!