How Much Does it Cost to go to Thailand?
Have you ever wondered how much does it cost to go to Thailand? Like any vacation, the costs depend on where you’re flying from, what kind of accommodations you’re looking for and what you want to see and more. If you’re a backpacker who’s looking to spend as little as possible, you could probably get by for about $40 USD per day (not including flights), but for the purpose of this article, I’m going to use average costs for a comfortable trip.
In my experience, ten nights in Thailand will cost you about $2,850 USD (including flights) which works out to about $285 USD per night which is pretty good. Some people think that’s a bit high, but flights will take up a third of your budget. Throughout this article, I’ll share some tips on how to save. Note that if you plan to travel to Thailand as part of a Southeast Asia trip, your costs can go down quite a bit depending on how long you stay.
Estimated cost
Airfare $1,100
Accommodations $800 ($80 per day)
Local Transportation $300
Attractions $100
Food and drink $350 ($35 per day)
Random Spending $200
Total $2,850 USD
The above estimate is in American dollars, so please use xe.com to find out the average costs in your home currency.
Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Things can cost you much less (or more), but I wanted to give you a rough idea of costs as you prepare for your trip. For some people travelling for as cheap as possible is the goal, but I think you’re better off stretching your travel dollars.
If you’re Canadian, you may want to consider applying for one of the best travel credit cards in Canada to help offset your costs by collecting points. For example, the American Express Platinum Card gives you a generous welcome bonus that’s often worth more than $900 (potentially more if you transfer your points to Aeroplan or Marriott Bonvoy). There’s also the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card that has no foreign transaction fees, and it comes with airport lounge access.
Airfare
Airfare to Thailand, like flight to anywhere in the world, has increased quite a bit over the last couple of years. Right now, the average cost of a return flight from a major North American City to Bangkok is $1100. You may be able to find some seat sales and get lower pricing but keep in mind these rates can be even higher depending on the time of year.
Although Bangkok is a major destination, there are limited direct flights to Canada. You can now fly direct via Vancouver but you also may find yourself routed through Hong Kong.
If you’re flying from Europe, the cheapest flight will depend on where you’re departing. Obviously, if you’re flying to Thailand from within Asia, flights will be much cheaper. As always, book in advance to get better deals.
Local Transportation
Most people who visit Thailand will likely visit more than one city so you need to budget for your local transportation. The $300 I’ve recommended is a bit on the high side, but you’ll get a better idea of how much it’ll cost you once you start planning out your route. The good thing is that Thailand has pretty good transportation to get you around.
Long distance trains
Regional travel within Thailand is crazy cheap, but it takes longer to reach your destination. A third-class ticket from Bangkok to Ayutthaya can cost as little as $1 USD for the two-hour journey. An overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai can cost as little as $ 8 USD and go up to around $65 USD depending on which class you choose. While long distance trains are one of the cheapest ways to get around the country, it’s very time consuming and isn’t always very comfortable.
Domestic flights
You can fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Phuket for as low as $30 USD on various budget airlines, including Vietjet Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Airways AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Thai Smile, and Nok Air. Some routes will cost more. For example, Bangkok to Koh Samui typically costs about $150 USD.
Buses/subway
Local public buses cost around 10 THB (about $0.30 USD), while taking the Metro or Skytrain in Bangkok starts at 16 THB (about $0.46 USD) per station. If you plan on using the Metro a lot, a day pass might be your best option. Tuk tuks are unmetered and typically cost tourists double what locals should pay. This means your fare will likely start around 65 THB, but negotiate before you get in.
Metered taxis are usually your best bet since a five km journey averages 60 THB and 10 kms for 90 THB. Any surcharges are added to your meter at the end of the ride. Local transportation is limited on some of the islands, so you may need to rent a scooter. Legally, you are required by Thai Law to hold an international driver’s license to rent a scooter. Some shops may rent you one without it, but you risk being fined by the police (which is getting more common) if caught.
Note that not many people in Thailand speak English. If you’re using a taxi or tuk-tuk, you’ll want to get the address of where you’re going in Thai. They may not understand the English names in your guidebooks. If they refuse to use the meter, get out and wave down a different taxi.
Thailand accommodations
When people ask how much does it cost to go to Thailand? They understand that where you stay and what type of accommodations you choose make a difference. But, it’s always a shock to find out how cheap some of your options are.
I’ve seen hostels for around $12 per night and budget hotels in the $50-$60 range per night. I personally find that budgeting $80 a night for a mid-range hotel is a good idea. Keep in mind that the high season will obviously cost you more than the low season. Below I’ve highlighted the different options available
Hostels
If you’re travelling solo and want this trip to be cheap, then hostels are the way to go. A cheap dorm room will about $12-$15 USD per night If you want to “splurge,” you should be able to find a dorm room with air conditioning for $20-$30 per night.
Recommendations: Good One Hostel & Cafe Bar (Bangkok), Hostel One Art and Gallery (Chiang Mai)
Hotels
Although hotels greatly range in price, it won’t be hard to find double rooms starting at $50 USD per night. Resorts on islands as well as beach bungalows that accommodate up to three people, can be found for about $100 USD per night. Even name brand hotels are reasonably priced by North American standards starting around $100 USD per night.
Recommendations: Aloft Bangkok – Sukhumvit 11 (Bangkok), Rainforest Boutique Hotel (Chiang Mai)
Luxury hotels
Even though there are plenty of budget options in Thailand, the country also has a lot of luxury hotels available where you feel like a king or queen. The best thing about luxury hotels in Thailand is that they’re reasonably priced compared to other parts of the world.
Recommendations: Shangri-La Hotel (Bangkok), Maladee Rendezvous Hotel (Chiang Mai)
If you have the right credit card, you can save a fair amount of money on hotels. Americans should strongly consider the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card since you can earn up to 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and $300 back at U.S. restaurants as a welcome bonus.
Canadians should consider the Marriott Bonvoy American Express, which gives you up to 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. That’s enough points for a few free nights at some hotels, which could easily have a value of over $500.
Food and drink
Food is ridiculously cheap in Thailand. From fried rice to pad Thai and even fresh fruit, there are lots of great meals at very low costs. Most typical Thai dishes will start at 60 Thai Baht which is less than $2 USD.
Don’t like Thai food in general? Western food, Chinese, and Indian food are found everywhere and will only run you 150 – 350 THB a meal. Oh, beer is pretty cheap, too and should cost you about $2 for a domestic beer. Cocktails will vary depending on location but can be as cheap as $3 USD and go up to $15 USD. Remember, buy bottled water in Thailand because tap water is not safe to drink. A bottle should only cost you about $0.25 USD from a grocery store.
Generally speaking, street food is where you get the best deals, but you can even get decent food at convenience stores for less than $4 USD. There are malls everywhere in Thailand, and most of them have a food court where you can get food for cheap as well, around $5 will get you a meal at an inexpensive restaurant.
Budgeting $35 a day should be more than enough to feed you and keep you well stocked with drinking water (you’ll need it!). That said, Bangkok also has some Michelin-starred restaurants that are more affordable than other high-end restaurants around the world, so it could be worth splurging for a meal or two.
Attractions
Most museums, temples, and park entrance fees cost around 50-100 THB to get in. However, The Grand Palace in Bangkok will cost you 500 THB (About $15 USD). It’s the day tours such as going to Ayutthaya and adventures that will cost you the most money. Buying your tickets in advance from Klook can sometimes save you money and allow you to skip lines. They have tickets available for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and other destinations in Thailand.
Hiking, diving, and jungle trekking can cost you anywhere from $15-$100 USD per person. You can negotiate lower prices if you’re going in a group. How much you spend is up to you, but I don’t recommend you cheap out on experiences. Note that some attractions charge more for non-Thais. This is standard practice and often posted. Your Thailand costs for attractions shouldn’t be too much, but you’ll need to budget for the expenses.
Random spending
With so many markets and malls, it’s not a far stretch to say that shopping is one of Thailand’s biggest tourist attractions. I certainly enjoyed shopping during my time there, but I found the quality to be quite low on almost everything I bought. Haggling in markets is expected, so sometimes it’s worth watching others do it first before you make your first offer.
Now if you want to spend money on Thai massages, I get that. They’ll cost you less than $10 USD each and can be quite relaxing.
Thailand trip cost
How much does it cost to go to Thailand? I estimate a ten-night trip will run you about $2,850 USD. That being said, if you’re willing to spend just a little more, you can have one heck of a trip! Now check out my guides on how much does it cost to go to Southeast Asia, Laos, the Maldives, Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam for more inspiration.
FAQ
Is Thailand cheap to visit?
If you are looking for an affordable travel destination, then Thailand is definitely a good pick. There are some great affordable luxury options across the country. However, if you are worried about the cost of Thailand, then rest assured you can travel to Thailand on the cheap too as a budget backpacker. The key thing is to find the right balance. Don’t travel to Thailand with the intention of spending as little as possible, as you won’t enjoy yourself as much.
What are the best Thai islands?
This depends on what you want to do. Do you want to learn how to scuba dive? Koh Tao is a good choice. Looking for Thailand’s famous full moon parties? Koh Phangan and Koh Phi Phi are where you want to go. Interested in quieter islands? Take a look at Koh Samui or Koh Lipe. Some of the lesser-known islands may be harder to get to, but they could be that island paradise with few tourists that you’ve been searching for your entire life.
One important thing to keep in mind while in Thailand is that the rainy monsoon seasons vary depending on which side of the country you are on. So be aware of that while planning.
How much money do I need a day in Thailand?
I would say about $70 per day is a very reasonable number if you are looking for simple travel. If you are on a backpacker budget and staying in hostel dorms, you can absolutely reduce that rate. Similarly, if you want a more luxurious experience you will have to increase that amount. But $70 a day will get you a nice guesthouse and good food with room for basic activities.
What should I do in Thailand?
Obviously, you should stick to the things you love but I firmly believe there are a few must do’s while in Thailand. The obvious include visiting temples in Chiang Mai and Bangkok and Island hopping down south. Some more favourites include going to a Lady Boy show (note these are NOT like Ping Ping shows), visiting night markets, learning to scuba dive (if you haven’t yet), and getting a massage (or several).
What should I avoid in Thailand?
Thailand has its fair share of scams, especially in Bangkok, that you must be mindful of. The biggest one is tuk-tuk drivers telling you that some sites (i.e., the palace) are closed on that day. Or the shop or hotel you want to go to is too expensive and they know a better one. These are all scams. The driver has an agreement with someone elsewhere and will get paid when they drop you off. Insist on having the driver take you to your chosen destination or get out and find a new driver.
My boyfriend and I are planning a trip and would like to stay on Phi Phi Island. We are both beach and island people! I heard there are bad areas on the island that we should be sure to not stay at or near… Is this true?
Hi Katelyn,
Some areas are full of tourists so it’s a matter of opinion of where you should avoid.
1,600 really because what I am looking at from my phone with me planning a trip next summer and it seems more expensive than that…
Nelson,
My budget is based on backpackers travelling for as cheap as possible
Oh ok yeah I was just reading different if there is a way I can with myself and a friend that would be awesome
My boyfriend and I are going to Thailand. We are very excited since we booked the hotel in Chiang Mai. What would you suggest to go see and experience there?
Mikayla,
The elephant nature park is near there, but you need to book well in advance. Can also go up to Chiang Rai and white temple. In Chiang mai itself tons of temples, monk chats at a couple, great food scene. Night market on Sunday is awesome as is the lady boy show. There’s also the Sticky Waterfalls that you can do as a day trip
I love going to Thailand since there’s a lot of place where you can visit that will not break your bank account. Also, their food and hotel are also affordable so you can definitely prolong your vacation here without worrying too much about your money.
Super helpful read! Thailand will be the first leg of my 80 day South East Asia trip and I’m already set on which cities to hit up. I’m curious though, would you suggest I book hostels in advance or just book for a few nights and gauge for the rest of the trip? I’ll be in Thailand for 4 weeks, covering 10 cities/islands so each place I’ll be there for 2-4 nights depending. The planner in me really wants to just book it all in advance, but I’ve had some people tell me to wait it out. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Jenny,
I’m totally like you and would prefer to plan everything in advance. Can you book fully refundable hotels and hostels? If that’s not an option, I personally would probably book – 3 days at the start and then sort of go with the flow. If you’re going during the low season, getting rooms likely won’t be an issue.
I just wanted to say thanks for letting people know what you think. You seem to know your stuff. I’m actually thinking of going to Thailand for retirement with my wife. Being able to spend 2000 to 3000 Canadian per month. I don’t like to spend 1500 but I’m prepared to spend more if you think that’ll make a difference. What do I need to know about I guess visas how long you can stay whether I get kicked out after a certain amount of time. I’ve been watching a bunch of videos to go to Pattaya Thailand. What do you think is good place. I have watched mini videos that very so drastically you don’t know who to believe.
Hey Alexander,
I’m not familiar with local laws about how long you live in the country, but you shouldn’t have any issues living there comfortably for less $2K CAD a month. The key is to pick a base and rent an apartment. My estimates are based on hotels but in Thailand, you can get a space for $400 – $650 a month depending on where you’re staying.
Pattaya is more of a party area, so you might want to look at some other areas. You’ll obviously want to make sure you’re an area where you have easy access to healthcare.
Hi
I am a single female in my 50’s and planning a trip to Thailand for my birthday on mid August
Any suggestion which budget hotel near beach and local night out to be safe as well
Hi Shahla,
I’m not as familiar with specific properties so you may want to ask on Tripadvisor.
I am considering a trip very soon (end of May or June) and wondered if this is a good time of the year to go. Couple in early 40’s considering Marriott Mai Khao Beach in Phucket or Marriott in Bangkok, not sure which is best to go to, i’d like to be able to swim and tan poolside but also want to be able to venture out and see some local art and culture.
Melissa,
May and June can get hot since the average temperature is in the 30’s. It’s also the start of the rainy season, but I wouldn’t let that stop you if you want to go. The Marriott in Bangkok is nice, but I would argue the Sheraton Grande and Westin are better located on Sukhumvit since you’re close to more food options, transportation, and shopping. The main tourist areas e.g. Chinatown and the Grand Palace would require a tuk tuk or taxi ride. Phuket is more for relaxing as I’m sure you know.
Thailand is a huge country with a lot to see so you may want to do a little more research to see what interests you.
Thank you for the write up. I have visited in the past but with military so it was much different. Much much different lol. I’m currently planning a “surprise” trip to Thailand with my wife and was wondering what your thoughts were on travel packages. Iv seen some on groupon that include air, lodging and guided tours for a set price; 10 days for $1500 for Bangkok and Phuket for example. Was wondering if these are good options or if it would be better to just do and find everything myself on line.
-thanks again.
Ralph,
If you don’t want to do any planning, those could be a good value but Thailand can easily be done on your own. If you’re going to book a tour, you want to make sure it’s with a company that caters to your lifestyle e.g. there are ones that are more focused on families while others are more for luxury travellers.
I want to buy a inexpensive trip to Bangkok and Chang Mai for my 48 yr old niece and her two children…ages 13 and 15. We are related to Siamese Twins and the 15 yr old is doing a documentary on the twins next year. I’ve been to Thailand and would luv to have them witness the country first hand. Can they use hotel service people for help in arranging a tour t9 their village, statue, and to Chang Mai elephant camps and Hmong people?
Mary,
Hotels usually only help with day trips so if you’re looking for something that’s all packaged together, you many want to check with a travel agents or maybe look for a local tour company that can build you an itinerary.
Hi!
My fiancé and I are planning a 10 day trip to Thailand and Cambodia for our honeymoon. We have been going through a travel agent to get recommendations and are considering booking the trip through them. For everything (accommodations at very nice places, some excursions including elephant sanctuary and two day trips to national parks/snorkeling/lagoons plus temples and personal drivers the entire time), the trip will be $7000 USD. This also includes breakfast every day and some other meals. We already booked international flights so that’s not included. Is this way too much to spend for our time there?
Emily,
That’s on the higher end, but the travel agent may have simply booked you really nice hotels and organized tours. My estimate is based on everything DIY and on budget accommodations.
Hi Emily! How was your trip? I would like to book something like this for my wife and me. Was the $7000 for both of you? I’d love to hear what you liked and what you would do differently.
We went last OCT
PHUKET, SINGAPORE and BANGKOK
Nicer hotels ranged from $50-125/nite in Thailand and much higher in SINGAPORE… there are hostels and “back-packer” motels and Airbnb all over for very low cost. We took more of the mid-upper level of full service hotels.
Our 14 day trip without airfare was about $3500-$4000 (We ate and stayed at higher end places).
My Budget per person
Flight $ 800
Food/day – $25
Alcohol/day – $10
Hotel – $100/day (nicer) so $50/person assuming a couple
Transportation – $10/day
Attractions – $10/day
Shopping $10/day
Overall I my opinion $115/day per person + flight would be a nice vacation. However if you start flying inter-country cost will increase.
The nice thing about Thailand as there is something for every budget. I think if you scrimp you can meet the budget here in the article but if you want more US/EU like accommodations i would 2X total prices. I would suggest packing lite and doing laundry its super low cost… new cloths are cheap and readily available.
I’m looking to book a trip in Thailand in June as a surprise for my spouse’s birthday. The prices for flights I see are expensive. Any tips on how to find cheaper flights. The ones I am seeing round trip from Jamaica are for usd$1700 and more.
Also for tours, what do you suggest?
Hi Sammy,
Unfortunately, getting to Thailand from Jamaica can be pretty expensive and there aren’t really any ways to bring down your costs. The good news is that once you’re on the ground, costs can be relatively inexpensive. I personally prefer Intrepid Travel and G Adventures for tour operators.
Superb Writting, useful information, Thanks man
I am planning a trip in 2021 to Thailand and want to visit hot springs. Where is the best place to stay and visit?
Hi Gwendolyn,
I’ve never done a hot spring in Thailand so I can’t really advise you there. You could check Viator as they may have tours to popular hot springs
Thank you Thank you for this awesome information I fly Dec 30 to Chiang Mai (Solo) have hotel booked for the month then looking for a place near Prachuap Khiri for the month of Feb… Taking your advice will fly to… where when I go South what is the nearest airport. I have not made my return airfair Plan to fly home to Canada from Bangkok…Appreciate all the feed back from fellow travellers. Retired Lady hoping to meet other like minded people. Cheers
Hi we are going in march all of our hotels and flights are already paid for. we are going for 16 days how much spending money would you say to bring with us and is cash or a travel card better ?
h
Rebekah,
Although many places take credit cards, Thailand still uses a lot of cash (especially at attractions and street vendors). $35 USD for food a day is probably enough but you also need to factor in shopping and transportation.
There are ATMs everywhere so you can just bring a bit to start with and then withdraw more as you need it.
I am a 61 year old man. Leaving for Patong beach (via Chengdu) feb 4-March 1. I’m staying in a hostel as I did last year . My cost from Vancouver BC, $850.00 Canadian. That’s airfare and 26 nites. I’m pretty much guaranteed perfect weather. Sunny and hit every day. I rent a motorcycle and travel up and down the various beaches and love it. Food, drink and massages are cheap
Bobby,
Yes, costs can be crazy cheap if you’re not too picky.
I am considering a trip very soon, so i would like help on when is the best time/Month to travel to Thailand?
Hey Mohamed,
It really depends on where you’re going, but basically you want to try and avoid the rainy season.
Just to be clear: Are the estimated costs per person? We’re going to Thailand for 15 days, on a tour most of the time and to a resort hotel on our own. Can I subtract out of your 10-day budget the items we’ve already pre-paid or won’t encounter (accommodations and most local transportation, for example), multiply by 1.5, and come up with a reasonable per-person cost for 15 days? I’m trying to figure out how much cash to bring to pay for things where credit cards might not be accepted.
Hey Ken,
This is per individual. Costs per person would be doubled with the exception of hotels. But yes, you can just subtract whatever isn’t relevant to you. Note that food costs can vary quite a bit too. Street food is very popular and can cost you less than $5 a meal