backpacking tour thailand

Travelling is ultimately a tool for growth. If you want to venture further, click this banner and take the leap 😉

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Thailand Travel Guide (2024)

There is some kind of magic in Thailand that keeps us backpackers coming back time and time again. You feel it as soon as you arrive; the warm welcoming smiles and DELICIOUS smells of street food fill your soul. There’s nothing quite like it.

Slinging a backpack over a shoulder and heading to the Kingdom of Thailand to find yourself is a rite of passage for many. Over the years, the beaten path in Thailand has become pretty well beaten by us travellers.  

Thailand is truly a fascinating and beautiful country that deserves to be explored beyond its tourist hotspots. Home to some of the kindest humans I’ve met, beautiful landscapes, crystal clear waters and BANGIN food – there is so much to discover when you get off the beaten path.

As with so many things in life; Backpacking Thailand will be what you make of it. Dive into the local way of life and really experience it all.

Without further ado, let’s jump in and get inspired to rediscover why backpacking Thailand is freaking amazing!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in Thailand?

Possibly the most popular destination for backpacking in Southeast Asia , there are so many weird and wonderful places to visit in Thailand. Southern Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the world; the north of Thailand offers mysterious jungles and epic motorbike riding.

You could come and go backpacking just for the Thai food . Honestly, this country offers so much more than pad Thai – it has some of the best street food in the world! And, the street food is so cheap and such a cornerstone of life in cities that you can try some of everything! For me, it was the simple treats like chilli and watermelon that got me excited about eating out in Thailand.

There is a feeling that anything is possible in Thailand – and I do mean anything . You’ll meet a lot of people (mostly a certain kind of ex-pat) who are living out their “dream” in Thailand and they fall into the seedier side of the country pretty quickly. You just don’t face the same moral consequences here as you do back in the West.

Now, you could spend a month (or many months) going to full moon parties and blasting your way through Bangkok’s finest ( read : grungiest) establishments. Or you could join a silent meditation retreat , learn about yoga, motorbike through Northern Thailand, and explore the national parks.

Thailand also has some legendary SCUBA diving. In fact, many people learn how to dive in Thailand or become diving instructors here.

There’s even some pretty legendary sailing around these parts! Maybe you try out boat life and are sold on a life on the ocean…

Whatever you choose to do when you go backpacking Thailand, know that you chose to do it. This is the country that many cut their backpacking teeth on – or even level up their digital nomad game. Either way, you write your own manifesto and create one hell of a journey for yourself.

And it’s sure to be beautiful.

Ever thought about doing a retreat whilst travelling?

We recommend BookRetreats as your one stop-shop to finding specialised retreats focussed on everything from Yoga to fitness, plant medicine and how to be a better writer. Unplug, de-stress, and recharge.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Thailand

Best places to visit in thailand, top 10 things to do in thailand, backpacker accommodation in thailand, thailand backpacking costs, when to travel to thailand, staying safe in thailand, how to get into thailand, how to get around thailand, taking an organised tour in thailand, working in thailand, thai culture, unique experiences in thailand, faqs about backpacking thailand, final thoughts on backpacking thailand.

Generally, backpacking trips to Thailand, are split into the southern legs and the northern legs. Some backpackers only have two or three weeks in the country. In this case, I’d recommend sticking to one half of the country. It’s always better to travel slowly !

But if you have a month or more in the country, then it’s well worth combining the two backpacking Thailand itineraries I’ve outlined below. Neither half of the country is better than the other – just extremely different. And to truly get to know Thailand, you need to see the country from all angles.

Figuring out where to stay in Thailand is made a little easier once you know which half of the country you’re travelling to. So before we get into travelling off the beaten path, let’s dive into the highlights of travelling Thailand!

Backpacking Thailand 3 Week Itinerary pt 1: Thailand’s Islands

Starting in Bangkok , Thailand’s capital, make your way south to Phuket . If you go overland, make a side trip to  Kanchanaburi , one of the beautiful national parks , though it makes more sense to fly for not that much more money. Check domestic flights beforehand.

Phuket is the gateway to the Andaman Sea in Southern Thailand. While touristy, Phuket has things to do for everybody: amazing beaches, boozy nights, one of the best Crossfit boxes in Southeast Asia, and Buddhist temples galore.

From Phuket, your next step is to travel Koh Phi Phi , also touristy, but known for its beautiful beaches, epic nightlife, and awesome places to stay.

Head to  Koh Lanta next to take a break from all the partying – book ahead to ensure a bed at the best Koh Lanta hostels. With 2 weeks dedicated to the Andaman Sea, you can make it to Koh Lipe . Finally, end your trip by staying in the Krabi area. Here you can also extend a couple of days in Railay if you’re big into rock climbing !

Next, it’s time to explore the famous Gulf of Thailand, which includes  Koh Samui, Koh Phangan , and Koh Tao . The infamous full-moon party is on Koh Phangan, though there are some chilled-out areas to stay in Koh Phangan  instead as well as lots more to do on the island than just party! Koh Tao is known for its laidback diver vibe and incredibly affordable diving schools. Koh Samui is the most unpopular of the three; you really only come here to party.

Backpacking Thailand 3 Week Itinerary pt 2: The Central and North of Thailand

If you are flying internationally, you may fly to Bangkok . It’s easy to get a domestic flight up to Chiang Mai , but if you want to take the slow route, head to Khao Yai first.

Just three hours north of Bangkok, this park is a great place to find wild elephants as well as hike and swim. It also has some crazy beautiful waterfalls that you need to trek a bit to reach – totally worth it!

You can also head to  Umphang for some trekking. Here you can reach the 200m-high Tee Lor Su Falls by rafting and hiking your way through the jungle on a three-day trip.

Next, head to Chiang Mai , Thailand’s capital with plenty to do! The digital nomad capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai mixes local and backpacker vibes like a perfect  Cha Yen .

Need help deciding between Bangkok and Chiang Mai ? Check out our helpful guide.

Spend 2 days in Chiang Rai checking out the temples, and allocate some solid time to staying in the hippy village of Pai  high in the mountains. People get stuck in Pai; it’s one of those places. Or maybe it’s the mushrooms? 😉

Thailand has many layers to it. Even the most touristy places hide surprises and delights. It’s obvious why they’re some of the best places to visit in Thailand .

I loved exploring Bangkok as it only took a little bit of walking to discover local neighbourhoods and hidden markets that made you feel a world away from the tourists on the main streets. There are just so many places to visit in Bangkok you could spend an entire month here! Plus, Bangkok has a Skytrain! As a small-town girl, this REALLY impressed me!

Beyond the big cities are islands and coral reefs; jungles and mountains. The deeper you explore the country while backpacking Thailand, you too, will peel back this country’s layers and find your own hidden gems.

Always, there will be life.

Backpacking Bangkok

This is the hectic heart of the backpacker scene in Southeast Asia. At first, backpacking Bangkok can be a hard sell. Parts of the city are gritty, claustrophobic, and full of people with ill intentions. Plus, the aesthetic of the city can feel like you’ve washed up in some dystopian tech future full of skyscrapers and slums, but no flying cars.

But once you lean into the city, it rewards you a hundredfold. Lumpini Park is Bangkok’s answer to New York’s Central Park. It’s a great place to have your morning coffee while watching local life happen. You can soak up some nature while at the heart of the metropolis.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner should all be from the innumerable street food carts. There is a cornucopia of fruits available (the dragonfruit in Thailand… oh man, it’s good) as well as a huge range of curries, soups, and noodles. Beware though, if you ask for something to be spicy, the Thais will make sure you are pooping fire for the next four days. They seem to take spice as a personal challenge, so get ready to sweat!

When I travel to big cities I often enjoy what is considered “mundane”. Taking Bangkok’s sky train throughout the city and people watching was something I found genuinely fascinating . You have no idea just how diverse this city is until you ride through each of its districts.

Then there are the floating markets – an absolute must-do! Truth be told, there are plenty of temples, palaces, markets, and other things to do in Bangkok. PLUS the nightlife in Bangkok is fantastic!

A great day trip option is Bangkok to Ayutthaya where you can get your first glimpse of jungle temples reclaimed by nature. Whilst not as impressive as Bagan or Angkor Wat, Ayutthaya is still very cool.

All I’d say is: keep your wits about you in this city of saints and sinners !

Backpacking Kanchanaburi

Travelling is about going to places that are difficult as much as it is going to places that are beautiful or fun. And Kanchanaburi, while undoubtedly one of Thailand’s most stunning places , also presents its own set of unique challenges.

In 1942 Kanchanaburi was under Japanese control and it was here that Asian forced labourers and Allied POWs were made to build the infamous ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’ as part of the ‘Death Railway’. You should also take a look at the JEATH Museum. It does a really good job of putting the war in perspective even all these years on.

This sobering experience and point of reflection is an important reason to take the trip out here. But, it’s also located near to some truly stunning waterfalls. Such is the poetry of life: it goes on . Where there once was so much suffering is now a town like any other.

While you’re in town, you can also check out the Khmer ruins on the edge of town. It’s a nice contrast of history to see the distant with the more recent.

Backpacking Khao Yai National Park

Just three hours north of Bangkok, this park is a great place to find wild elephants as well as hike and swim. It also has some crazy beautiful waterfalls that you need to trek a bit to reach- totally worth it.

You didn’t just come to Thailand to swan around on beaches or drink alcohol out of a bucket. You came to explore the wilderness of a new country! And out here in Khao Yai, elephants occasionally squash cars and you’re likely to see barking deer as well as hundreds of bird species.

Now, tigers have been seen by camera but are rarely seen by people. Still, the national park feels a world away from the bustling metropolis of Bangkok. Once upon a time, all of Southeast Asia was as wild as this so it’s definitely worth a moment of reflection to think about the impact we humans have on the planet.

Bring your camping hammock with you and sleep the night in this beautiful national park for free! Camping is my favourite way to get right back in touch with the wilderness that is found in a place like Khao Yai.

Backpacking Chiang Mai

Most backpackers end up in this leafy laid back city at some point and with good reason. The historical, yet surprising cosmopolitan, walled city is surrounded by jungle and amazing hillside landscape. The area has become well known for homestay and hill-tribe trekking in Thailand . One downside, however, is that the treks here can sometimes feel commercialized, verging on a bit exploitive of the hill-tribe people.

I suggest either trekking elsewhere such as a national park or heading out on a longer trek to discover some more untouched areas, around the Myanmar border area. This way you’re actually trekking and taking on the responsibility of a hike instead of being lead around some vaguely forested areas by a guide.

Chiang Mai itself is well worth visiting if not only for the vast array of temples, then for the quaint coffee shops that seem to match them in numbers, often serving locally grown coffee beans and free WiFi.

Why is travelling to Chiang Mai every vagabond’s dream? Street food… of course! Magic is happening on these roads.

Prices for Thai massage are some of the cheapest I’ve come across too. And the massive night market is one of the best places to pick up souvenirs in the country.

There is a huge amount to do in Chiang Mai and it’s largely considered the digital nomad centre of the world (for better or worse). Chiang Mai has become not only one of the best places in Thailand to visit but also to live.

There is a cinema, a Crossfit box, tons of meetups and events and it’s very easy to slot into working life in Chiang Mai. So if you are thinking of pausing anywhere on your travels and need access to good WiFi, Chiang Mai is a good bet.

Backpacking Pai

A small town in the north of Thailand near Myanmar’s border, Pai has recently made it onto the backpacker circuit and is super popular. I fucking love Pai. It’s one of those special sticky spots that draws travellers in and somehow 4 weeks has passed! The drive from Chiang Mai to Pai is also especially epic if you do it by motorbike.

Pai is worth a visit in and of itself. There are incredible street food stalls, rolling hills packed with things to do , circus hostels, jazz bars (yes, jazz bars!) and parties that seem to roll well past dawn. Hippies and freaks are drawn here like moths to a flame partly because the weed and magic mushrooms are rather delectable. 😉

Now, if you have time, I strongly recommend getting closer to the Myanmar border and visiting some of the Karen villages in the area. The easiest way to do this is by motorbike.

When exploring these parts, you realise how many more layers there are to Thailand beyond the tourist bubbles. There are whole communities and tensions and beauty strewn throughout the far-flung corners.

There are also some cool and unique eco-resorts in Pai where your contributions help support local communities as well as lower your carbon footprint. Pai is such a special little getaway for any type of traveller – but especially for those digital nomads that end up living in Chiang Mai.

Backpacking Koh Samet and Koh Chang

Koh Samet and Koh Chang are good island alternatives to those in the south of Thailand. They’re a bit closer to Bangkok, a bit less developed, and a bit less hectic than some places in the south. They’re also conveniently close to Cambodia in case you were visiting there next!

To get to Koh Chang, you’ll need to take a bus from Bangkok – there’s one that departs near Khaosan Road – until you reach Trat, at which point you’ll take a boat. Most companies include the connection in a single ticket.

Once you’re on Koh Chang, it’s just a matter of finding a place to stay and renting a bike. Most of the guesthouses are near the port and they can help you rent a scooter.

Avoid the elephant sanctuaries on Koh Chang. They reportedly are an unethical business of exploitive animal tourism .

Koh Samet is located before Koh Chang and a bit closer to Bangkok. You’ll need to arrive in Rayong before taking a ferry to the island.

Koh Samet will be a similar experience to Koh Chang; maybe a bit more local as lots of Thais living in Bangkok like to escape here when they have the chance.

Island life promises an escape to anyone living in a city as chaotic and Bangkok. I quite enjoyed these islands as a way to make some Thai friends as much as to kick back with a beer and other travellers.

Backpacking Phuket

Phuket is the largest city in the south and the centre for things sleazy and debaucherous. In all honesty, staying in Phuket kinda sucks. I would only stay there for a night or two if I was on a layover or had the intention of making day trips. There are much better things to do around Phuket instead.

Head to Koh Yao Noi for an isolated treehouse experience. A fairly chilled-out place, it’s a short boat trip from Phuket where I spent a week living in an incredible treehouse in the forest. If you want to disconnect from technology (there is no electricity) or have a romantic weekend away, I highly recommend checking out The Island Hideout!

Arguably the best national park in Thailand, Khao Sok , is also a 3-hour drive from Phuket. This palace offers caves, jungles, rivers, and gorgeous limestone scenery. You can explore the park by using its hiking trail, raft, canoe, or kayak through the Sok river. If you’re lucky you may spot an elusive gibbon or two.

Ao Phang-nga National Park is also very close by. This place is famous for its surreal limestone towers and caves. Kayaking around the towers and through the caves is a really cool experience and definitely worth doing.

If you go with a tour operator, they will likely take you to Khao Phing Kan AKA James Bond Island, where scenes from The Man with the Golden Gun were filmed.

So basically, yes, there are some cool things to do AROUND Phuket, but not really in Phuket. Although, maybe it’s a little wrong of me to say, but people-watching in Phuket is disgustingly delightful. 😉

Need help deciding between Phuket and Krabi ? We’ve got you covered.

Backpacking Railay and Krabi

Railay and Krabi are ground-zero for all things climbing in Thailand. Here will find some of the most epic and exhilarating routes in all of Asia. If you’ve never climbed before, this is a great place to start!

Krabi is the main hub of the region. It’s not on the coast proper, rather further inland. Most people catch the first boat they can find to Railay, Tonsai, or one of the other nearby beaches. There are a couple of hostels in town if you need to crash.

Tonsai and Railay are the most popular places to stay near Krabi. Railay is slightly more developed and a bit more refined. Tonsai is like a scene out of Lord of the Flies , complete with feral children. Stay in Tonsai if you want to party, or Railay if you want something a bit calmer.

From either Tonsai or Railay, you ca organize lots of different day trips. I absolutely recommend going deep water soloing, which involves climbing (without gear!) directly over the ocean. It’s a bit nerve-wracking but totally worth it.

You can also arrange tours to the surrounding islands of Koh Poda, Tup, and Po Da Nak. There are quite a lot of places around Krabi worth seeing in fact.

Lots of people organize overnight trips to the legendary Koh Phi Phi islands from Krabi. These are among the most famous islands in Thailand – thanks to the film The Beach – and are justifiably gorgeous.

The problem is that the islands are pretty overrun these days and the scenery is at risk of being destroyed. There has been talk of limiting access recently – and they’ve done so at Maya Bay – but nothing has really changed yet.

Backpacking Koh Tao, Koh Samui, and Koh Phangan

Located on Thailand’s eastern coast, these 3 islands, which are quite close to one another, all offer something unique.

Koh Phangan is where you’ll find the (in)famous Full Moon Parties. They became so popular in recent years, that they started organizing one for each phase of the moon: there’s a New Moon Party, Quarter Moon, and so and so forth. Locals put a stop to this because things got out of hand though.

The parties aren’t really that great – just a bunch of sloppy tourists drinking horrible liquor from a bucket and burning themselves on flaming jump ropes. In fact, there are much better parties on the island .

Some of the parties last for several days. If you want to be present for all of them, stay somewhere on Koh Phangan (preferably on the east coast). Otherwise, stay on either Koh Samui or Koh Tao and make the trip over for one night.

Need help deciding between Phuket or Koh Phangan ? Check out our helpful guide.

Koh Tao is the best place to dive in the area. It is probably the cheapest place to get your diver’s license in Thailand and thus attracts a lot of aspiring dive masters. I preferred this island as you can still go over to Koh Samui

Even if you don’t dive, Koh Tao is a very chill place and worth spending a day on still. There are some nice beaches around and nothing is too far away.

Koh Samui is the “resort island,” mostly inhabited by older couples and Russians on holiday. It’s much bigger than either Koh Tao or Koh Phangan, which means there is a bit more to do on Samui . It is definitely more expensive, but luckily there are some hostels dotted around the island still.

Off the Beaten Path Travel in Thailand

Thailand is definitely well on the beaten track as far as destinations go. Everyone loves to come here and everyone wants to keep coming back.

The thing is, people really love to come to the same destinations within the country. So, it doesn’t take a lot to step off the tourist trail and see another side of Thailand.

Even as far as tropical islands go, you can find small islands that are totally uninhabited. If you’re exploring Southeast Asia by boat then you can truly go Robinson Crusoe and live off coconuts away from any people. Some of the better diving spots are pretty offbeat as well – the Similan Islands come to mind.

Koh Tarutao and Koh Phayam are two of the other islands that are more laid back and will deliver some seriously good vibes.

If you want to get off the beaten path but meet people while you’re at it, you need to head to Thailand’s borders. Whether you’re in the north near Myanmar, or down south near Malaysia borders are where things get interesting. I’m hesitant to recommend that everyone go exploring here, as there is sometimes tensions that flare up. However, the cultures are very interesting and the people are welcoming, too.

The jungles are unmatched and you certainly don’t feel like you’re in Thailand anymore. If you want to travel off the beaten path you simply have to avoid the tourists. 😉

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

There are literally too many awesome things to do in Thailand and you won’t fit them into a single trip! Now, a best-of list will inevitably ruffle some feathers, but this is a good start if you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Thailand.

1. Go Scuba Diving

Many backpackers fall in love with scuba diving whilst in Thailand. The country offers incredible diving opportunities in crystal clear waters with abundant marine life and plenty of wrecks for the underwater adventurer. The best islands for diving are the Similan Islands and Koh Tao , but no doubt the cheapest place to learn is Kao Tao.

2. Party Like a Machine!

Probably the most popular backpacker party in the world is the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan . 20,000 people partying until sunrise on Haat Rin Beach, Koh Phangan. It is extremely touristy, boozy, and the music is shit, but it is still worth a look.

I personally prefer the half-moon and Shiva Moon parties as there are not quite so many people and so prices do not skyrocket as much. Suffice to say, you’ll find plenty of parties and nightlife in Koh Phangan that you dig, but you may just need to look outside the standards.

Option 3 is just getting fucked up partying in Bangkok… Now that I can get behind.

Looking for something a bit different? There are a bunch of other festivals in Thailand to consider.

3. Go Jungle Trekking

There is some great jungle trekking in Northern Thailand. If you choose to go trekking make sure to go on a multi-day hike. The most popular places to go jungle trekking are Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai (Chiang Rai has some great hostels and the city centre is totally worth a visit too).

All that said, personally, I prefer trekking in Laos.

4. Chow Down on Amazing Street Food

Dude. Duuuuuuuuuuude, Thai food probably ranks as my favourite food in the whole world. It’s spicy in a way that kind of knocks you on your ass but goddamn it’s so flavoursome. There’s a huge variety of types of food too, but all of it focuses on fresh ingredients.

So not only are papaya salads and tom yum soups delicious, but they’re also available from every street cart. The street food in Thailand is cheap and off the charts delectable. Eat your way through this country’s pure goodness.

5. Learn to Cook Said Epic Food

Now that you’ve eaten your way through a city or two, it’s time to upskill. Learn how to cook up amazing flavorful dishes, so that you can take your skills back home with you and keep the Thai food train rolling.  It’s a memorable experience to try out on the backpacking route in Thailand. Plus, you don’t want to go home with only the memory of this incredible food – you need to be able to recreate it for yourself!

6. See Some Elephants ETHICALLY

Look, we all adore elephants, but the sad truth is that not everywhere you go backpacking in Thailand will have the most upstanding treatment of the adorable fellows. If you want to see elephants in Thailand, do your research and find an ethical elephant sanctuary .

At the end of the day, I really don’t think that riding elephants can ever be ethical but that doesn’t mean you can’t try and spot them in the wild. You can even go to the national parks and simply watch them in their natural habitat.

7. Climbing at Tonsai and Railay

You’ve also got some wicked rock climbing in Thailand’s south, particularly close to Krabi. It’s a chill life: wake up with a climb, down a mushie shake for brunch, hit the walls again before a lunchtime joint…

Check out Tonsai and Railay Beach if you’re keen to get stuck in the climber’s bubble for a couple of weeks (or more).

8. Stretch Your Booty!

If you are new to yoga, this is a great place to learn. It’s no India when it comes to the scale of yoga retreats , but there are certainly a lot around. You can also embark on fitness retreats in Thailand if you want to tone up or lose weight.

I think it can be such a great skill set to incorporate into your travels. You get to keep fit on the road while also focusing your attention on your mental health.

The yoga classes in Thailand tend to be more chill than in India, too. It’s definitely a nice introduction to yoga practice.

9. Explore Northern Thailand by Motorbike

Travelling by motorbike is (in my humble opinion) one of the best ways to travel a country – and Thailand is no exception! Backpacking Northern Thailand is already going to be a bit of an adventure because it takes you rather off the beaten path and into the epic jungles.

Being able to control your own itinerary and camp alongside your bike is an awesome way to see Thailand up close and it’s way easier to do this when you travel by bike. Plus, the locals are always pretty curious about your bike and your adventure!

No Motorbike? Go with Global Work and Travel

Northern Thailand can also be explored by those who’d prefer an itinerary with Global Work and Travel , an online platform with opportunities to volunteer, teach English, go on tours and more. They’ve got broke backpackers in mind, as they offer the chance to pay in interest-free instalments that you get to choose. The Northern Thailand: Hilltribes & Villages Tour is just one of the choices available for those wanting to explore Northern Thailand and beyond. Bring your appetite, there’s a lot of street food involved.

10. Go Island Hopping

Look, whether you live the boat life or whether you jump on the rickety ferries that run between the islands, you’ve got to see some of these paradises up close.

If you want to party then you’re going to want to hit up some of these islands. But in my opinion, you should head for the more low key islands. Not only is the diving better but you get to actually relax and destress on island time.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

For me, one of the most exciting things about being on the road is meeting new people and staying in new places. And what better place than Thailand to really jump into backpacker culture by staying in some of the most kickass hostels in Southeast Asia.

The hostels in Thailand are backpacker Meccas. They and great for meeting fellow travellers, exchanging exciting travel stories, and just chilling out.

There is an insane amount of accommodation options all around Thailand ranging from the squalid to the regal. It is usually possible to arrange accommodation as you go, on the day, by turning up and asking around.

The notable exception is Koh Phangan at Full Moon which does fill up with annoying kids so we advise booking ahead. Hostel life is one of the highlights of people’s backpacking years – even if it can be a bit of love/hate!

If you need a break from the hostel life or don’t think it really sounds like your thing, you can always try out one of Thailand’s premier Airbnbs. As with most things in Thailand, they aren’t super expensive but they are top-notch quality. Staying in an Airbnb can be a lovely break – even for the broke backpacker.

Another way you can keep the cost of your accommodation down is by camping in Thailand. All it takes is a good tent a little bit of discretion and the backcountry is your oyster.

Best Places to Stay in Thailand

Although certainly still cheap in the global sense, compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, visiting Thailand is more expensive . A beer costs around $3 and a bed in a hostel will set you back between $5 and $10 .

A lot of attractions in Thailand are cheap or even free, and transport is not too expensive either. Some of the bigger activities like SCUBA diving or trekking will be more expensive, for obvious reasons. Without too much effort, you can keep your daily costs in Thailand under $20 .

Below I have highlighted what things cost in Thailand in sections:

Although cheap, accommodation in Thailand is more expensive than most other countries in Southeast Asia. You can still find guesthouses for around $7 in the cities and $4 in the countryside, but you have to look harder.

Bungalows and beach huts start at around $4 but can cost way more if you haven’t perfected your haggling skills. It’s well worth having a hammock or a tent whilst backpacking Thailand as there are lots of very cool places to set up for a night.

Food is super cheap in Thailand and is some of the best in all of Asia!  Street food costs around $0.65, and if you eat locally, it is possible to get by on about $2-3 a day.  You can save a lot of money on your bar tab by taking advantage of happy hours or buying cheap beer from a 7-Eleven.

Transport is pretty cheap in Thailand if you don’t get ripped off by a tour operator.

• Only get in  taxis  which agree to run on the meter. A taxi ride normally costs under $3.
• Tuk Tuks are great fun but you have to haggle. They probably work out more expensive at around $5 a journey.
• Boats  between Thai islands cost between $7 and $15 and it sometimes works out better value to buy a boat and bus combo ticket.
• Buses  are pretty cheap and local buses cost just $0.25 in Bangkok.
• Trains  across the country cost between $7 and $18. When booking short-distance buses it often makes sense to simply book them on the ground but if you plan on  traveling to Singapore  or Malaysia it can be worth booking them in advance.
• If you choose to pay for a tour (I very rarely endorse this) it will cost between $15 and $35 a day.
• Trekking with a guide  costs between $30 and $50 a day.
• A  PADI dive certification  course costs around $300.

When you’re ready to travel around Thailand, forgo buying tickets at the station and book them online instead! You can now book transport in advance for most of Asia and doing so can really save you some stress (and maybe money, too).

Money in Thailand

There are lots of international ATMs and credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the more built-up areas such as Bangkok. But many of these, charge pretty insane withdrawal fees. So it’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once. Just make sure you hide it well!

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends  Wise  – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

And yes, it’s even better than Western Union!

Top Tips for Visiting Thailand on a Budget

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst travelling in Thailand, I recommend sticking to the basic rules of budget backpacking …

• Camp:  With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Thailand is an excellent place to take a tent. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking.
• Cook your own food:  I took a backpacking gas cooker with me to Thailand and cooked a lot of my own meals whilst hitching and camping. I saved a fortune.
• Couchsurf: Couchsurfing is a brilliant way to save some dollars in your Thailand backpacking budget AND connect with locals – boom!
• Haggle:   Haggle your holy heart out ! A room, a trinket, a few g’s of mushies – doesn’t matter!
• Hitchhike:  In Thailand, it is so, so easy to thumb a ride and it is an ace way to keep your transport costs down and instead spend it on smashing experiences. So hitchhike as much as you can when backpacking Thailand.
• Keep it Local : Where possible drink the local beer, eat the local delicacies, and for day trips, try to use local companies. By using local companies you can haggle a bargain price that larger, international tour operators won’t offer. Plus supporting local businesses thrive is awesome!

Why Should You Travel to Thailand with a Water Bottle?

There’s nothing worse than showing up to a picture-perfect beach, only to discover plastic bottles littering the sand. Whilst there’s a lot that we can do when it comes to travelling responsibly , reducing your plastic consumption is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do.

Don’t buy one-use water bottles, don’t take plastic shopping bags, and forget straws. All of this just ends up in landfills or in the ocean.

One way to get around this is by investing in a  premium filtered travel bottle  like the Grayl Georpress. You can filter any kind of water, save money on buying endless plastic bottles – and sleep easy knowing you’re not contributing to the plastic bottles lining our beautiful beaches.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

So when is the best time to travel to Thailand ? The peak tourist season in Thailand is  November to February when the weather is beautiful across the country but there’s a high chance you’ll run into a ton of tourists.

The really popular guesthouses fill up fast so this is a country where it can definitely be worth making reservations. It is difficult to find cheaper accommodation during peak season. The local people are a really friendly bunch and keen to help so if you have any problems don’t be afraid to ask for directions from the locals.

It is best to avoid northern areas of Thailand from February to April as the burning season starts and mountains will slowly be covered in smoke.

Monsoon season is in the summer for most Thai islands, so you can chill on the beach and enjoy yourself!

What to Pack for Thailand

Wondering what to pack for Thailand ? On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Honestly, Thailand is quite safe to visit , and the people are keen on helping you out! Thailand has some pretty wild parties though, and it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, and be careful with drugs and alcohol when you’re out partying.

Being smart and trusting your gut are the keys to staying safe in Thailand. Look, if you follow standard backpacking safety tips , you should be fine.

I’d watch your drink when you’re out and keep an eye out for taxi scams. But honestly, most people don’t mean you any harm so as long as you keep your head down and have a good time – you’ll be more than ok.

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia.  Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of 3 crashes in Southeast Asia over the last 10 years. On one occasion I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to hospital. It was an expensive mistake.

The local people are sick of scraping foreigners off the road. And, trust me, you don’t look cool for not wearing a helmet.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ’n’ Roll in Thailand

Even though drugs are free-flowing in the half-moon and full moon parties, Thailand has very very strict laws against the possession of drugs including imprisonment and the death penalty. Except weed that is! Drug tourism is now legally a thing in Thailand since it became the first country in Asia to legalize (and sell) cannabis in 2022.

Shrooms are also easily available in both Pai and the islands and it is possible to pick up LSD and MDMA but the quality varies enormously and the price is usually high.

Every now and again, unfortunate backpackers do get roofied so be careful with your drinks and don’t accept random shit from strangers.

Tinder is awfully common in Thailand but more as a hookup app than a dating app. If you are a foreigner rocking up into Southeast Asia for the first time, you’re in for a treat as you will suddenly be about ten times more attractive to the local girls than you are back home.

And, I’d be avoiding the elephant in the room if I didn’t talk about the sex industry in Thailand. Everything is cheap in Asia, including the services of sex workers. This has led to an industry in Southeast Asia that can be very ethically murky.

Regardless of your opinion on sex working in general – and whether or not you engage with sex working services – there is no reason for you to not have respect for another human being. There are enough people in this world with bad intentions and rotten hearts.

But you know that. While love and sex on the road are bound to happen, you can still be a good human about it. 🙂

Travel Insurance for Thailand

Travelling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

The best place to fly into is Bangkok. International airports are also located at Krabi, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai, but it’s easier to fly into these from other Southeast Asian countries.

You can enter Thailand by border crossing from Malaysia, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. You can also take a boat from Indonesia or even a slow boat from Laos to Thailand  on the mighty Mekong River.

Entry Requirements for Thailand

Many nationalities can receive a 30-day free visa waiver on arrival (if arriving by air; it’s currently 15 days if you arrive overland). You can generally extend the waiver once, to receive an additional 30 days, for a fee of around $60.

COVID has changed the visa situation a little bit. Select countries are not required to have a visa for tourism purposes for up to 30 days, but those wishing to stay longer will still have to apply for an appropriate visa.

If your nationality requires a pre-arranged visa or you want to sort out a Thai visa in advance, particularly for a longer stay, it is fairly simple to receive one at a Thai embassy at home or abroad.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Thailand is a pretty big country, and if you are short on time, you may want to consider taking the odd internal flight while backpacking in Thailand. AirAsia is a great low-cost airline but you need to book your tickets in advance before it fills up or the prices go up. You can also get around by train but this is often not as fast or punctual as travelling by bus.

Thailand is a relatively easy country to drive around, compared to many of the countries I’ve driven in any way, and many backpackers explore the country by motorbike . Most roads are marked in Thai and English so it is pretty straightforward to find your way around. If you bring a tent, you can sleep just about anywhere as well.

Night buses and overnight trains in Southeast Asia are a great way to save on a night’s accommodation and get from A to B. As a whole, Southeast Asia is generally pretty well connected by trains.

Luckily, Grab (similar to Uber) is now readily available in Thailand! Grab is hand’s down the best way to get around cities; the price is locked in on the app so you can’t get ripped off and you can skip the haggling.

Hitchhiking in Thailand

Thailand is a great country to hitchhike in! As far as hitching goes, Thailand is a great place in Asia for beginner hitchhikers earning their stripes. But you have to be persistent and make sure the locals understand where you need to go or you will end up getting dropped at a bus station.

Hitchhiking in Thailand is pretty safe and easy; just find a good spot where the traffic is nice and slow and stick out your thumb. If you are backpacking Thailand on your own, there is a good chance you can hitch a ride with motorbike riders.

Onwards Travel from Thailand

There are 4 countries that share a border with Thailand. Although neither China nor Vietnam border Thailand, their territories lie within 100 km of Thai territory and are easily accessible from Thailand. You can enter Thailand from any of these countries by flight, road, or boat.

Overall, unless you’re heading home or to backpack Australia to restock your travel budget, chances are you’ll be heading somewhere else in Southeast Asia.

• Backpacking Cambodia
• Backpacking Laos
• Backpacking Malaysia
• Backpacking Myanmar

While Thailand is relatively easy to backpack under your own volition, it remains a very popular country to explore by way of joining an organised tour. Organised tours are particularly valuable to those who are maybe inexperienced travelers, are short on time, or solo travelers in Thailand who would prefer to join a ready made friendly group of like minded folk.

If you are looking to backpacking around Thailand but don’t have the time to plan things yourself, then maybe take a look at  Feel Free Travel who are among the best providers of organised Thailand tours. Their flexible payment options, with deposits starting at under $2, make them every broke backpackers dream. Their  South to North: 15 day Thailand Group Tour  is very like much a ‘best of Thailand’ in a well thought out 2 week itinerary. You get experience a perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time and nightlife.

Lots of digital nomads have based themselves in Thailand and there are sizeable communities spread throughout the country (according to recent digital nomad stats ). You can thank Thailand’s low cost of living combined with a relatively high standard of living for this.

Chiang Mai is an extremely popular place and is not only of the best places in Thailand for digital nomads but arguably all of Asia. Gatherings, like Chiang Mai SEO Conference, happen every year and these are great opportunities to network.

Others prefer to work out of Bangkok or one of the more well-connected islands in the south, like Koh Samui. Honestly, though just about any major city in Thailand is a good place to base yourself if you’re a digital nomad.

The internet in Thailand has become increasingly more reliable and fast. You can get free wi-fi at most hostels, hotels, cafes, etc. In the cities, you’ll see that Thai people are always connected and on their phones. You can get a SIM card for data pretty cheaply.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Thailand

Teaching English in Thailand is an extremely popular way to extend your travels here! Most people signup for some sort of organized placement. In this case, most of their living expenses and teaching fees will be covered. These placements are predictably quite expensive.

It is possible to just start backpacking in Thailand and then find a job on the ground. If you had a TEFL license before, your odds of landing a gig while abroad would be much higher. That being said, they aren’t always mandatory.

If you wanted to become accredited, use MyTEFL . Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (using the code PACK50).

Volunteering in Thailand

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Thailand ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

Thailand is an incredible destination, but the low-income wages mean backpacker volunteers are greatly appreciated. There are loads of opportunities to make a difference, including farming, childcare, and English teaching.

There is also an increasing number of technical jobs available, such as web design and SEO. You won’t need a special visa if you’re staying for less than 30 days, but you’ll need a 60-day visa if you’re staying for longer. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Thailand, then we recommend that you signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with travelling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

The people in Thailand are some of the kindest and warmest people I have come across. The friendly aura of the Thai people is immediately noticed stepping off the plane, and despite Thailand being famous for its beaches and jungles, it’s the people I come back for.

Thais are friendly, unpretentious, and generous. I feel like as a traveller it’s still easy to make connections with Thais, whether it’s at the market or at a bar.

Moreover, Thais are pretty accepting of different sexualities. While backpacking Thailand you’ll hear about “ladyboys” a lot. Thai people widely accept transgender people, as well as same-sex couples. You may meet transgender people from across Southeast Asia who have ended up in Thailand precisely because it is so welcoming of LGBT travellers and people.

The Buddhist culture in Thailand preaches non-violence and acceptance, so most of the time it’s extremely difficult to get Thai people visibly angry or upset. But don’t mistake this for them not being upset.

Also, it’s frowned upon to get into loud disputes so keep that in mind when you’re drinking. You don’t want to get carried away if you’re trying to start a life in Thailand.

Useful Travel Phrases for Thailand

While many Thais speak English in touristy areas, once you get off the beaten path, you’ll find almost no one speaks English. Even in popular cities, only basic English is spoken.

Knowing Thai travel phrases is one of the best pieces of advice I can give you to help you get around Thailand. But it’ll also help you connect with the culture!

• Hello  – Sà-wàt-dee
• How are you?  – Sà-baai dee mi
• Pleased to meet you  – Yin dee têe dâi róo jàk
• Excuse me  – Kor tôht
• Please  – Kor …
• Cheers  – Chon
• Crazy  – Ding- dong! (Sounds adorable not offensive.)
• Son of a bitch  – Ai hee-ah (Now that sounds more effective!)
• Ladyboy – Katoey (Very useful to know this in Bangkok!)
• No plastic bag  – Mimi tihung phlastik
• No straw plastic please  – Mimi fang pord
• No plastic cutlery please  – Mimi mid phlastik pord
• Where’s the toilet?  – Hông náam yòo n?i (crucial if you’re a lover of spicy South East Asian food)
• Yes  – Chai
• No  – Ma Chai
• Beer  – Bia
• How much  – Nee Tao Rai

What to Eat in Thailand

Thai food is honestly amazing. Their noodles and curries are full of flavour without being too heavy. They know how to cook something mouthwatering out of thin air.

As well as tasting absolutely wonderful, Thai food is one of the healthiest foods in the world.

Prepared with fresh ingredients, vegetables, herbs, and either rice or noodles, each dish is different but delicious! emember eating a particularly fabulous papaya salad on the beach and thinking, damn how is this so simple but so good?

The other amazing thing about eating in Thailand is that it’s all done on the street. Everything you can possibly want to eat can all be found cheaply and accessibly from street carts. This is such a communal and special way of eating out and I’d highly recommend getting as many meals as possible from the best street food in the world !

Plus, the streets just always smell good… Oh, Thailand I miss you.

• Tom Yung Goong: A soup blended with fragrant lemongrass, chilli, lime leaves, shallots, and lime juice with fresh prawns and straw mushrooms.
• Red Curry: Red curry paste made with coconut milk and meat, as well as kaffir lime leaves.
• Pad Thai: A delicious noodle dish with a fish and peanut based sauce, as well as chili powder. This is probably the most internationally recognized dish in Thailand.
• Khao Soi: This soup-like rice noodle curry dish is the most popular dish in the North of Thailand. It’s made with deep fried and boiled egg noodles, pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime, ground chilies, and meat in coconut milk curry.

A Brief History of Thailand

Like much of Southeast Asia, Thailand was once roamed by hunter-gatherers before a series of kingdoms came to rise and fall. The first of these kingdoms were heavily influenced by India; some of the later by China and Malaysia. The Thai kingdom that the first European explorers came to know was in conflict with both the Burmese kingdoms and the Khmer kingdoms.

Unlike most of Southeast Asia, Thailand evaded European colonisation and had its own colonies. However, in 1893 Thailand was forced to cede Laos to France. Later they also ceded Cambodia to France and Malaysia to Britain. This obviously fostered some anti-imperial sentiments.

Thailand tried to remain neutral during World War II but eventually chose to ally with Japan who promised Thailand that their former colonies would be returned to them from Western Imperial powers. Japan invaded and there was always a lot of support for the Free Thailand movement due to atrocities like the Burma-Thailand railway, and constant bombing by the allies.

In May 1946, Thailand formed a new constitution for Thailand was published, but there were still power struggles between kings and the military. In 1947 Field-Marshal Phibul staged a coup, and Thailand then became a military dictatorship. The reason that Thailand remained close to the USA during the 20th century is that they were also anti-communist and were allied with the US against their Southeast Asian neighbours like Vietnam and Laos.

There was no unified support for the US, with many students wanting a more democratic and egalitarian society – not one led by kings and generals.

Over the decades, people protested for a civilian government, and in 1992 after many student demonstrations the king stopped eventually returned Thailand to civilian government, and a new constitution was introduced in 1997.

There was another military coup in Thailand in 2006, but in December 2007 democratic elections were held again. Yet, the royal family remain an important – if very controversial – staple in Thai life.

There is an increasingly large generation gap with many young people pushing for further democratic reforms and the older generation being content with the monarchy. However, in a lot of ways, this is a continuation of the tensions of the last century of the military vs the royalty vs democracy.

Thai people have put up with a lot and they are very proud of their country and willing to fight and make it a better place.

There is so damned much to see and do it Thailand! It’s a storied country with incredible scenery, a rich culture, and delicious food to enjoy.

However, if there’s one activity that stands out more than any other as a unique experience in Thailand… it’s SCUBA diving. Truly, the diving here is off the charts incredible but it’s also affordable to get your certification. This is where many people dive for the first time and become HOOKED.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Scuba Diving in Thailand

Thailand has some of the world’s best scuba diving venues (psst – the Similan Islands are sublime). The problem is, the word is out. Millions of tourists flock to Thailand every year to enjoy the wonderful diving the country has to offer.

You can get your certification in Koh Tao or Koh Samui but it’s other islands that take the cake when it comes to the best diving. Anywhere in the Andaman Sea is going to put on a delightful show for you. The soft corals are glorious here, as are the multitude of sea life they attract.

Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi islands give you a good chance of swimming with manta rays, while the more offbeat Surin Islands give you a better opportunity for swimming with whale sharks. The more offbeat islands like the Surins or Similans are best explored by liveaboard. Because unless you have your own boat being on a liveaboard is the only way to get out here.

Luckily some of the best liveaboard experiences are right here in Thailand! Eat, sleep, dive, repeat. That is the name of the game. Sounds pretty sweet, right?

You’ve got questions about backpacking in Thailand and we’ve got answers! Before you head off, ask your questions and do your research to have a more enjoyable trip once you arrive.

Is Thailand a good place to go backpacking?

Oh yes, it is! Thailand is often people’s first experience with backpacking. This is because it’s affordable, beautiful, and easy to get around. You won’t run out of things to do in Thailand – nor will you go broke doing them! It’s a great place to begin your backpacking adventures.

How much does it cost to go backpacking in Thailand?

Thailand is not as cheap as the rest of Southeast Asia but it’s still possible to travel here for $10 – $15 per day.

What should I avoid doing in Thailand?

You should avoid unethical elephant tourism attractions, for one. There are some other overrated experiences like most of Phuket, but the biggest thing in my opinion is to avoid animal cruelty.

Is Thailand safe for solo female travellers?

Yep! Thailand is very safe for female travellers. You should still take the usual precautions to keep yourself safe, but the country is, on the whole, safe for female travellers to travel to.

What is considered rude in Thailand?

Avoid pointing your feet at people as they are considered the dirtiest part of the body. A lesser-known no-no is not getting into public or loud confrontations with people. It’s very taboo to be up in someone else’s space – especially if you’re angry.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Thailand is a country that too many people barely scratch the surface of. It’s easy to get caught up in the party going, drunken blur and forget to actually visit Thailand. But it’s also easy to get caught up in the cynicism and avoid Thailand altogether.

Both would be a mistake.

This country has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty and rich cultural history. I ended up making some really close friendships with some of the Thai people I met while living here – and this was truly special for me.

Thailand can become a home away from home loaded with all the imperfections and joys of your motherland. Buuuttttt, the food is better here. 😉

So be good to Thailand. Enjoy what is sure to be an epic adventure in the land of blessed coral reefs, jungle mountains, and pad Thai. And make sure you leave the campsite cleaner than you found it, so to speak. We want to make sure that those who come after us are able to have an epic adventure in Thailand too.

Hopefully, I’ll see you somewhere in the north of Thailand one day as we both go on an epic Southeast Asian backpacking Thailand adventure. Until then, peace out!

• Check out all the best places to visit in Thailand for planning the most dope trip.
• We’ve also got where to stay in Thailand covered with our epic guide.
• You’ll also wanna stay in the best hostels in Thailand too!
• Our ultimate Thailand packing list has all the info you’ll ever need.
• Sort out your travel insurance for Thailand before your trip.
• Get your international sim card for Thailand organised to avoid hassle.
• Thailand is just the start of your awesome backpacking trip around Southeast Asia .

Indigo Blue

Share or save this post

23 Comments

Hi Really want to travel without a detailed itinerary, I’m an older woman who has never travelled so far before but I have been planning it for most of my life, my kids have all left home but now with the pandemic find myself in two minds if now is the right time to go, any advice would be a grat help. Thanks

Actually, we have an article just for incredible humans like you… Give it a read!

Honestly, just do it. There’s a lot to learn, but also, there’s only so much you can learn until you get out there and live it, ya feel? I guess the two biggest questions is…

• Howdo you want to travel? (Just because you’re itinerary-free doesn’t mean you have to backpack.)
• Where do you want to go? (Thailand and the more basic countries in Southeast Asia like Malaysia or The Philippines are good choices. Or somewhere more developed, but remember that some Western hostels have age limits – that’s a whole separate rant.

In summary though: shit yeah! Do it. 😉

Backpacking in Thailand sounds like fun! I mean it’s pretty cheap, the food is great and the culture is interesting. Not being biased at all of course, having lived in Thailand for a while now 😉 I really want to go to Pai someday. Have been thinking about it for a while but somehow still never managed to go. After hearing all the wonderful things about Pai and seeing the amazing nature, I just need to just book a flight to the north asap! Thanks for sharing!

How easy or difficult 😉 is it to find weed in Chiang Mai? Are the police strict up there?

Police would be strict, but they’re not everywhere. You can ask around at hostels or in the night markets from people who (often discreetly) sell weed-related paraphernalia. There’s also a lady in a restaurant in the walled city that wears an orange apron with a cannabis leaf. Maybe give her a shout…

Thank you for everything you mentioned here!!!

I just went through blog and planned, executed my 15 days travel in Thailand.

Anytime! We hope you had a great time in Thailand!

Thailand is in my all-time top 5 – I loved it! You are a brave soul to be hitchhiking and camping! And I don’t mean cause it’s Thailand I just mean in general. This is a great resource that I am bookmarking for my next trip! Thanks for making it so detailed…

Hi, very well put together!! Lots of great information!! We spend a lot of time in Phuket , volunteering with the Soi Dog Foundation, which looks after 1000 rescue dogs and cats at any one time. A lot of the dogs have been rescued from the illegal dog meat trade, many were abused, run over by cars, neglected etc. They are a fantastic organization, that runs off donations and sponsorships and they manage to adopt a lot of these dogs and cats out in Thailand and to Europe, UK, USA and Canada

Then there is the Phuket Government Pound in Mai Khao in Phuket, where about 600 to 700 dogs live and they also need volunteers desperately, as they have a very small staff and only a few volunteers that keep the place ticking over.

Volunteering with the dogs is the most amazing rewarding experience, you meet many people from all around the world and make instant and lasting friends. Many volunteers that come for a week, have ended up staying for months and some even years!!

Both these organizations are also looking for travelers who are flying back home and are willing to be a flight volunteer to assist with getting some dogs to their forever home, at no cost what so ever.

If there is anything else you want to know, let me know and I’ll do my best to answer any questions. If you decide to volunteer or want to find out more, please look up soidog.org or Toni for the Animals on Facebook.

Hello, quick question: I am looking to go to Thailand in May and am planning my trip now. Thank you for your awesome guide! Do you think its best the secure hostels as you go? I will be traveling for 11 days and am wondering how far in advance should I book places to stay.

Whilst I cannot guarantee that every hostel in Thailand will be available, I can say that the odds of finding a free hostel the day-of are very, very high. I’ve traveled to many places in Thailand without booking anything and have never failed to find somewhere with vacancy. To be honest, I sometimes prefer more finding hostels as I travel instead of booking them ahead of time because it’s more fun!

Great tips for backpacking Thailand, I’ve visited the country some years ago and I’m planning to come back soon. I think we were totally wrong choosing August to visit Thailand, the touristic spots were crowed and street vendors too aggressive sometimes, but less crowed places such as khao sok were totally amazing

Great post, I’ll be backpacking Thailand for one month and this post is useful to plan my trip

Haven’t been to Mindful Farm, it looks interesting when I watched the video. Will definitely add that in my itinerary when I go back in Chiang Mai

Thanks you! I am rightnow on my journey trough thailand and this post helped me a lot!

I’m headed to Thailand in a couple of weeks! First time backpacker traveling solo! Excited to see what Thailand has to offer and experience my firs time traveling solo. Thank you for the great content, I’ll be using your website as a resource.

Great post. thanks for sharing.

Wonderful post! How long would you recommend someone stay in Thailand to hit all of the must-sees/dos?

At least a month.

Backpacking Thailand on The Cheap

Great guidance and tips. I hope to be traveling very soon, so this blog is timely for me. Great work.

Cheers Sharon…

Thank You for this! It was really helpful 🙂

You’ve written an amazing resource for traveling in Thailand that even a nonbackpacker like myself can use. Went to Thailand last year with family (2 kids), Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. We loved Chiang Mai so much that we are planning to move there to live in the next two years. Heard good things about Pai, so would definitely visit since it’s not far from Chiang Mai. I’ve also talked about volunteering with my wife, and will be sure to check out Love Volunteers to see what is available.

Great insights and there are so many reasons to backpack in Thailand. I love backpacking anywhere every time I have a chance.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Backpacking Thailand: The Ultimate Guide 2024

Backpacking Thailand is one of the best experiences I have ever had. For budget travellers, Thailand is an absolute must. In fact, some may consider it a “rite of passage”.

Thailand is the most popular country for backpacking and for good reason. It has so much to offer from culture to islands, from food to animals – Thailand truly has it all.

Naturally, you might have some questions before setting off on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Thailand. Luckily for you, I am a full-time backpacker and most of my content focuses on Southeast Asia.

So I created this guide which covers everything you need to know before taking on Thailand on a budget.

Why you should backpack Thailand

There are a million reasons to visit Thailand , way more than I can fit into one paragraph.

To sum it up, it’s both easy and rewarding.

“What do you mean by easy?”, I hear you ask. As part of the Banana Pancake Trail , Thailand is one of the most popular backpacking countries there are.

This means that there is a well-connected network of hostels, cheap buses and backpacking communities.

Many Thai people also speak English , which makes communication much easier than if you chose to backpack Central America, for example. Another huge reason for backpacking Thailand (or Southeast Asia) is how cheap it is , but I’ll go into that later.

As for the rewarding aspect, Thailand has so much to offer. The culture of South-East Asia is completely different to anywhere else in the world , you HAVE to experience it at least once in your life.

There are so many different temples to explore, foods to taste, mountains to hike and more . Not to mention how welcoming the Thai people are. They always have a smile on their face!

Backpacking Thailand will create memories that stay with you for a lifetime.

Is backpacking Thailand safe?

Obviously, I cannot guarantee your safety, but I can reassure you that Thailand is a very safe country to solo travel .

As I said, there is an extensive network of backpackers, meaning that you are never truly alone.

You will always meet people in hostels, in bars and clubs, or out doing something fun. South-East Asia is widely accepted as the safest place to go backpacking.

By the way, make sure you know the drinking age in Thailand before you go into any bars or clubs to meet people.

How much does backpacking Thailand cost?

As I said, backpacking in South-East Asia is very cheap. For the average backpacker, b ackpacking Thailand will “only” cost around $1500 USD each month. That’s just $50 each day.

In some places, this can work out cheaper than paying your monthly bills! There’s a reason backpacking Southeast Asia, Central America , etc. is so popular.

Obviously, it depends on how you are as a backpacker. You could go ultra budget traveller and spend only $1000 a month, or travel with a bit more luxury and spend $2000 a month.

Your main expenses will be food, accommodation, travel and activities. Here is a rough guideline for how much to expect to pay each day.

As you can see, activities make up the largest part of the cost. So the amount of activities you do really determines your monthly cost for backpacking Thailand.

Activities in Thailand are still considerably “cheap” compared to Western prices, but if you do activities a few times a week, they quickly add up.

I created a budget calculator for backpacking Thailand and other popular backpacking destinations which you can use to estimate how much you will need for your trip.

Do you need a visa to backpack Thailand?

Most nationalities receive a 30-day Visa exemption. This includes Americans, Australians and most European countries.

You can check if you are eligible on the Thai embassy website .

You can also purchase a 30-day Visa extension while in Thailand, this costs about $50.

Alternatively, you can purchase a 60-day Visa for $50 before arrival, but it’s pretty pointless if you can have 30 days for free before deciding if you want to stay longer.

If you want to stay in Thailand for longer without needing a visa, you can take border runs to Cambodia or Laos.

When to backpack Thailand

There is no real answer to this as Thailand is an amazing country and is well worth a visit at any time of the year. That being said, Thailand experiences a monsoon season (heavy rains and floods) and this falls from July to October. I would recommend between November and February. You can expect temperatures on average of around 77°F (25°C).

How to get to Thailand

The most common and easiest way to get to Thailand is to fly into Bangkok. Coming from Europe or the US, you might find it difficult to get a direct flight at a good price. It often works out cheaper to have a stopover in Qatar. You can expect an indirect flight to Bangkok to cost around $400 , however, you can find it cheaper if you are flexible with dates using sites like SkyScanner .

How to travel while in Thailand

While in Thailand, you will do most of your travel on a bus. They are extremely cheap considering the distance of the journeys. For example, you can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (a 10-hour journey) for under $20.

The downside of buses in Thailand is that they often aren’t the best of conditions. This is usually fine for short trips, but for longer journeys, you may wish to consider a sleeper train. Don’t worry, I will tell you where and when to get these in the itineraries 🙂

There isn’t Uber in Thailand unfortunately. Though there is Grab , which is the next best thing. It’s pretty affordable and is used all throughout Southeast Asia.

What to bring to Thailand

When backpacking it is important to have the essentials but as little as possible. Do not overpack! You will regret it. There are essentials for any backpacking trip that you should bring, but on top of this, there are a few items that may be particularly useful for Thailand:

• Universal Charger Adapter – Thailand has a mix of American and European sockets so it is important to have both.
• Travel-friendly credit card – important to avoid the large processing fees, I recommend Revolut for Thailand .
• Padlock – used to keep your locker locked in hostels
• Day bag – you don’t want to carry your full backpack around every day!

Make sure you pack appropriate clothes for temples too. You won’t be allowed in otherwise. A general rule of thumb is to cover your shoulders and knees.

Backpacking Thailand Top Tips

Setting out on a long backpacking trip, or a solo backpacking trip can be intimidating. Not to worry! There are lots of general tips for travelling on a budget , but I’ve created some specifically for Thailand. So here are 5 amazing tips for backpacking Thailand:

• Keep your Netflix subscription – those bus journeys can be long, and you’ll want something to keep yourself entertained! There are some other apps I recommend having for Thailand too.
• Don’t get a taxi without agreeing on a fee before – taxi drivers will often try to scam you claiming their meter is “broken”
• Don’t overplan – it’s so easy to be spontaneous in Thailand, embrace it!
• Don’t drink the tap water – tap water in Thailand is not safe or clean, and don’t brush your teeth with it either! You can buy water cheaply throughout Thailand.
• Get your vaccinations – you usually need at least Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus before going. You may also wish to get Rabies and some other vaccines.
• Buy an eSIM – getting a Thai eSIM works out much cheaper than buying a SIM card at the airport. Their packages are so overpriced, and eSIMs remove all stress.
• Consider a group tour – there are many great budget group tours of Thailand that take you to all the best destinations and make it really easy to get an amazing Thailand experience.
• Keep track of timezones – it can be easy to lose track of time in Thailand, but make sure you always know the time at home for keeping in touch with your loved ones. For me, for example, the time difference with the UK is 6-7 hours.

Backpacking Thailand Itineraries

Backpacking Thailand is something that shouldn’t be rushed. I would highly encourage spending at least 4 weeks in the country, but I understand not everyone can commit to that. I have constructed 3 amazing itineraries for backpacking Thailand which you can follow.

However, I strongly encourage you not to book things ahead of time, it is so easy to be spontaneous in Thailand and make plans last minute . Often these things make for the best memories!

Choose your Itinerary here:

1 Week Backpacking Thailand Itinerary

If you only have one week in Thailand, you are going to want to see as much of the country as possible without rushing it. I have given you a few choices to make, as otherwise, you would be going places just for the sake of going there, and not getting a true sense of Thailand.

Day 1 and Day 2: Bangkok

After landing at Bangkok airport, you will spend your first and second days in the Thai capital. There are so many backpacking must-dos here such as the Floating Market, or simply walking down Khao San Road .

Bangkok isn’t expensive either so it’s a great introduction to the way of life in Thailand. The culture shock was real for me, but I loved it.

When staying in Bangkok, I recommend the Niras Bankoc Cultural Hostel. It’s right in the centre of Bangkok and has an amazing backpacking community, not to mention the cheap price. Book your stay here .

After two amazing days backpacking Bangkok , book a sleeper train to either Chiang Mai OR Phuket . You can book sleeper trains in Thailand through 12go . It should cost about $20.

Day 3 and Day 4: Chiang Mai OR Phuket

Due to the limited time you have in Thailand, you should choose between Chiang Mai OR Phuket. They are at opposite ends of the country so it is impossible to visit them both in one week without spending half your time in Thailand travelling.

Why choose Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a beautiful inland city surrounded by extraordinary mountains . This northern part of Thailand is full of jungles, hiking routes and elephant sanctuaries. If the outdoors is your thing, Chiang Mai is the option for you. In my opinion, there are so many reasons Chiang Mai is worth visiting .

When staying in Chiang Mai, I recommend Smile Robotist Hostel . This is one of my favourite ever hostels. The owner is so friendly and helpful and the hostel has a really home-like feel to it. Book your stay here .

Why choose Phuket?

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest beach resort . The beaches are some of the nicest in the world, it’s a great place to go for snorkelling, diving or just enjoying being by the sea. If you prefer to relax, choose Phuket.

When staying in Phuket, I recommend Phuket Sunny Hostel. As with all my suggestions, it’s such great value for money. Only $7 a night but for an amazing hostel ( with a working AC! ). Book your stay here .

Day 5 and Day 6: Pai OR Koh Phi Phi

If you chose Chiang Mai as the last option, you will be visiting Pai. If you chose Phuket as the last option, you will be visiting Koh Phi Phi.

You can get from Chiang Mai to Pai on a bus for around $6. It should take around 3 hours on the bus. Pai is a lovely place to relax and spend even more time outdoors . Pai is home to even more hiking routes to see some of Thailand’s natural beauty.

When staying in Pai, I recommend Darling View Point Bungalows. The clue’s in the name! It’s in an amazing area, and the host here is especially welcoming. Book your stay here .

Kho Phi Phi

You can get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi via a ferry which costs around $10 and takes just under two hours. It’s a lovely journey though! Koh Phi Phi is a beautiful set of Thai islands, an amazing way to continue the relaxation from Phuket . The Phi Phi islands are amazing again for swimming, snorkelling, and the lot, just look how blue that water is!

When staying in Koh Phi Phi, I recommend the Voyagers Hostel. This hostel has an amazing backpacking community and is located in an amazing location, just a minute’s walk from the beach. Book your stay here .

Day 7: Bangkok

Assuming you are flying out of Bangkok again, you will want to make your way back here for your last day. Simply follow the transport you took but in reverse. One last thing to do in Bangkok before going to the airport is to make sure you have seen its beautiful temples. They aren’t to be slept on! Taking a Bangkok temple tour is one of the best things you can do in the city.

2 Week Backpacking Thailand Itinerary

Two weeks in Thailand is enough time to see the most popular places, however, it is a tightly packed schedule! I would still encourage you to spend as much time as you can in Thailand.

You can’t backpack Thailand without exploring Bangkok. There’s an endless list of things to do in Bangkok from visiting Wat Pho to taking a bat along the Chao Phraya River . This is the heart of backpacking Thailand, and you’ll be sure to have an amazing experience.

Day 3 and Day 4: Chiang Mai

Head up north to Chiang Mai, the best option is to get a sleeper train as the journey is pretty long. In Chiang Mai you can go on endless jungle hikes and spend time with Thailand’s national animal: the elephant.

Day 5 and Day 6: Chiang Rai

Take a 3-4 hour bus journey for about $7 and you’ve made it to Chiang Rai! Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost major city. These northern highlands are designed for exploration. It is temples galore up in Chiang Rai! My favourite is the Blue Temple, but the most famous is the White Temple.

When staying in Chiang Rai, I recommend Get Hi Hostel. The reviews for this place say enough. It’s THE backpacking hub in Chiang Rai. Book your stay here .

Day 7 and Day 8: Phuket

Trying to squeeze the north and south of Thailand into a 2-week timeframe is tough! To get from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai to Phuket, you can either fly or take a very long (20+ hours!) train. I suggest flying. Once in Phuket, you are in a whole new world . The beaches are amazing and there are so many things to do!

Day 9 to Day 12: Island hopping

From Phuket, there are endless opportunities to go island hopping. Take your pick from the Phi Phi islands, see Phang Nga Bay or even the Surin Islands, there are so many options to choose from and you could easily spend a lifetime island hopping the south of Thailand.

Day 13: Krabi Town

Split the journey between Phuket and Bangkok by spending a night in Krabi Town. Another beautiful seaside town with a lot to offer, you’ll wish you had more time to spend . Then get the bus early the next day and make your way back to Bangkok for Day 14 and prepare to fly home.

When staying in Krabi Town, I recommend Kbunk Hostel. It has everything there is to need, from restaurants to bars, everything is on your doorstep. Book your stay here .

4 Week Backpacking Thailand Itinerary

Spending four weeks in Thailand allows you to see all of the main selling points. As well as going off the beaten track. That being said, four weeks still won’t show you all of Thailand. You could spend a lifetime here.

For spending 4 weeks in Thailand, I would suggest following the 2-week itinerary but spending an extra day or two in each place. That will allow you to see pretty much all the major attractions. On top of this, you may wish to visit somewhere a little more off the beaten track:

• Kanchanaburi
• Koh Tao (great for PADI courses)

Most of these are beautiful islands in the south of Thailand.

Things to do in Thailand

Backpacking Thailand is filled with fun adventures and activities. It’s impossible to make a list of everything there is to do. Instead, I have compiled a list of 5 must-dos when backpacking Thailand. In no particular order,

• Party like never before at the Full Moon Party

The most famous party for backpackers around the world is the Full Moon Party. Held in Ko Pha-ngan, the Full Moon Party is a huge festival that runs all through the night, with 30,000+ in attendance. Held every month or so, it’s a must-do when visiting Thailand!

• Get your PADI – Scuba Diving Certification

Thailand is renowned for its unbelievable diving spots. There’s no better place to get your PADI for this reason alone, but on top of this, it’s incredibly cheap! It costs around $300 compared to $700+ in the Western world. I did mine with Koh Tao Roctopus .

Once qualified, you’ll see a whole new world by diving in Thailand , it’s indescribable. You can see sharks in Thailand too which is cool!

• Interact with Elephants (ethically)

There is a lot of controversy around the livelihood of elephants in Thailand. Please never ride these beautiful animals, they are not designed for it and these elephants are treated so badly, please look into this if you are unaware.

Instead, visit a morally appropriate elephant sanctuary that allows the elephants to roam freely and does not force them into human interaction. It can create some of the most special memories!

• Eat Street Food

It’s impossible to not eat street food when backpacking Thailand. Street food is the best option there is. It’s so so cheap but tastes so so good. Also, it’s the most authentic form of Thai food you can get, you watch it being cooked right in front of you after all! When you go to Chiang Mai, I recommend the Chiang Mai Gate Market . If you ask me, it’s one of the best in all of Thailand.

• Get a Thai Massage

Similarly, it would be a sin to visit Thailand without getting an authentic Thai massage. Be prepared though, they can hurt! If you have a low pain threshold or don’t want to have your back feeling like an elephant’s just stampeded over it, there are other options in the massage parlours, like a normal oil massage. But make sure to get some form of massage while in Thailand!

Backpacking Thailand: The Wrap Up

And there you have it, a complete guide to backpacking Thailand.

It is one of the most amazing countries in the world and you will not regret visiting, regardless of how long your trip is. Hopefully, you leave feeling more confident about backpacking Thailand.

Now that you know everything there is to know about visiting Thailand on a budget, it’s time to learn everything about backpacking Vietnam . It’s the best place to go after Thailand.

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

• Privacy Policy

• Disclosure Policy
• Travel Tips
• 109 Genius Travel Hacks
• Teach Abroad
• Work With Us

Asia Guides

Thailand backpacking route | 4 – 8 week thailand itinerary.

Thailand, the land of smiles, is usually the place where first-time backpacker start their trip in Southeast Asia. To help you get started here’s the ultimate ideal first-timers backpacking Thailand route. This itinerary takes in the best highlights that the country has to offer. This itinerary can easily take 4 to 8 weeks to complete, depending on your travel pace.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Getting to Thailand

Not everyone needs a visa to visit Thailand . However, travellers who do, need to be updated on the entry policies. UK citizens are granted a 30-day free visa upon arrival , both via air and land. We entered Thailand 3 times on our trip; once by air and twice overland. Each time we were granted a free 30-day visa.

Thailand is well-connected with other countries in Southeast Asia. Many travellers often start their journey in Thailand, as Bangkok is the international hub of the region. Also, flights into Bangkok from Europe are often cheaper than those flying into neighbouring countries. Bangkok is where we started our journey. We managed to bag a flight for just £ 305 one way from Manchester, England, with a layover in Qatar .

If you’re entering Thailand overland, you can enter from Laos , Cambodia or Myanmar. The bus is the cheapest option. You won’t find it too difficult to book a bus to Thailand as it’s easily accessible. You can book both tourist buses and local buses from all the above countries. If you want to book your bus beforehand, you can book online through Bookaway .

Once in Thailand you can also utilize the bus transit system to get around. To properly navigate Thailand’s bus system, it is best to at least speak a little Thai. This way, you may question and check with locals about local bus timetables and the best routes in case any internet information is unclear. To do this, you can learn Thai free by using a language learning application, and you should make sure you at least have a basic understanding of certain Thai words so you can get around with ease.

Looking for what to pack? Check out this essential Southeast Asia packing list

Backpacking Thailand itinerary

A Thailand backpacking route can be broken up into the north and south. The north of the country is very cultural and scenic, whilst the south boasts many beautiful beaches for relaxing in the day and partying in the night. You’re probably wondering how long does it take to backpack through Thailand? Well, depending on your travel pace, we recommend anything from 4 – 8 weeks. 4 weeks would be an ideal time to spend in the North of Thailand, whilst 2 – 4 weeks would be great for relaxing on the beaches in the South of Thailand. First, let’s start this backpacking Thailand route in the north.

Bangkok itinerary – Backpacking Thailand route stop 1

Bangkok is usually the first stop when backpacking in Thailand. Thailand’s capital is a busy place with plenty to see and do. It’s a great introduction to the chaotic cities of Southeast Asia. Here are a few unmissable attractions!

Koh San Road

Here is where many backpackers stay and party in the early hours of the morning. Koh San Road is packed with all kinds of bars, clubs, street food and hostels. Use this opportunity to have a few drinks. After having a few too many beers, dare yourself to tuck into a crunchy creepy crawly on a stick.

Wat Phra Kaew

This temple is situated on the grounds of the Grand Palace. This is the most famous temple in Bangkok and attracts many visitors. The temple looks extremely magical and pretty from the outside, but we decided not to go inside as we felt the cost was too high at 500 Baht ($16.55) per person.

Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. Here you can see the famous reclining Buddha. The entrance fee is 100 Baht ($3.31)  per person and you also get a free bottle of water.

War Arun is also known as the temple of the dawn. You may need to cross a river to get to this one. The journey across the river takes less than 5 minutes and costs just 2 Baht ($0.06). The price to get into Wat Arun is 50 Baht ($1.65) per person.

Explore other temples

If you like to look at temples, there are plenty more across Bangkok to admire. The ones we have mentioned above are just the most well-known and visited ones. If you’re looking for more off-the-beaten-track secrets, make sure to check out these top 3 secret things to do in Bangkok!

If you have extra time, consider a side trip to Khao Sam Rot Yot National Park for some awesome outdoor adventures.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya

It is time to move on from Thailand’s bustlin’ capital and head to the quieter, ancient city of Ayutthaya. The fastest way to get to Ayutthaya is by taking a mini-van from Moh Chit BTS station. Mini-vans leave regularly throughout the day and cost just 50 Baht ($1.65). The journey takes less than 2 hours. Alternatively, if you’re not ready to navigate the bustlin’ bus station, you can always book a private transfer . Or, if you’re on a super tight budget, hitchhiking in Thailand is easy too.

Places to visit in Ayutthaya – Backpacking Thailand route stop 2

Old temple ruins.

There are many old temples in Ayutthaya to see. Take a tuk-tuk around the old city and explore. Try to team up with other people in your accommodation so you can share the cost of the tuk-tuk. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle, which is a great way to get around at your own pace.

Ayutthaya to Phitsanulok

After a relaxing few days in Ayutthaya, get ready for the ultimate Thai experience by taking the rickety train to Phitsanulok. The journey takes between 3-5 hours, depending on which train you choose and costs 350 Baht ($11.58).

Phitsanulok – Backpacking Thailand route stop 3

Phitsanulok night market.

A stop in Phitsanulok is just a quick one to break up the journey to Chiang Mai. There is a large night market where you can satisfy your inner foodie needs and experience some new flavours. After taking the time to stroll down the night market, you can visit a few temples in the area.

Phitsanulok to Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a nice little stop if you’re not quite ready for a long journey to Chiang Mai. Just a one-hour drive from Phitsanulok, Sukothai can easily be reached by one of the many mini-buses that leave daily from Phitsanulok bus station. Public buses cost between 28-50 Baht ($0.93 – $1.65).

Sukothai – Backpacking Thailand route stop 4

Temple tour of sukhothai.

A trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without a whiz around on a tuk-tuk. Sukhothai is a great place to snag your chance and hire a tuk-tuk for a few hours to take you around all the temples. The cost of a tuk-tuk tour is just 200 Baht ($6.62) each.

Sukothai to Chiang Mai

To get to Chiang Mai, you will need to take the 1-hour bus back to Phitsanulok. From there you can either take the train or bus directly to Chiang Mai. The bus is the quickest and cheapest option. The bus costs between 220 – 330 Baht ($7.28 – $10.92) and takes a little over 5 hours. The train takes around 8 hours and costs almost double the amount of the bus.

Chiang Mai – Backpacking Thailand route stop 5

Songkran festival in chiang mai.

Next up is Chaing Mai, one of the most beautiful places in Thailand . There are many attractions in Chiang Mai, such as temples, hill tribe villages , the 3D Art Museum, a zoo, and tons of shopping malls. However, whilst on our trip to Chiang Mai, we didn’t manage to explore any of the above, due to enjoying firing water guns and chucking buckets of water for the Songkran Festival.

We spent our days in Chiang Mai loading up water guns and spraying the hundreds of partakers in the streets. Chiang Mai is a great place to be for the annual Songkran Festival which takes place on the 13th of April every year.

Whilst we didn’t get the chance to thoroughly see Chiang Mai, there is plenty of things to do there. Make sure to check out this comprehensive 6-day Chiang Mai guide for more ideas.

Chiang Mai to Pai

To get from Chaing Mai to Pai , you have a couple of options. From Chiang Mai, minivans run regularly throughout the day and take 3 hours to reach Pai. The cost of the mini-van is 150 Baht ($4.96) per person. Beware though, the roads on this route are very windy and those prone to travel sickness will probably need to bring along a plastic bag. Alternatively, you can drive the popular Mae Hong Son Loop by scooter. Be careful! It’s not for inexperienced drivers and you should only do this if you feel confident enough and are used to driving scooters or motorbikes.

What to do in Pai – Thailand backpacking route stop 6

Explore by scooter.

The best way to get around Pai is by scooter. Finding the main attractions is very easy, as they are well signposted. We recommend just driving around, getting lost and going on an adventure. Don’t worry, you will see plenty of signs directing you to the many viewpoints anyway. Here are some of the amazing sights you will come across (most are FREE ):

Pam Bok Waterfall

Love Strawberry Farm

Back garden pool

The heat in April is just so unbearable, and sometimes you just need to take a break in a pool to cool down. We came across a pool in someone’s back garden that the owners allow tourists to use for 20 Baht ($0.66) each.

The Land Split is exactly what it says on the tin…a split in the land. Accordingly, the farmer woke up one day to find a split in his land. Since that day, the split has grown bigger. When you arrive at the Land Split the owners welcome you with a drink and fruit. There is no cost to see the split, but donations are welcomed.

Cross the Bamboo Bridge

Most accommodation is located on one side of the Bamboo Bridge, whilst the other side boats plenty of eateries and bars. Spend a night on the strip trying different foods and chilling out on a bean bag with a bottle of Chang.

Pai to Chiang Rai

To get to Chiang Rai from Pai, you will need to take a minivan back to Chiang Mai. From Chiang Mai take a 3-hour bus journey to Chiang Rai. The cost of the bus ranges from 150 Baht ($4.96) to 300 Baht ($9.93) depending on which bus you choose. We recommend shopping around at the different desks at the bus stations for the cheapest bus.

Chiang Rai things to do – Backpacking Thailand route stop 7

There are many things to see in and around Chiang Rai, many people seem to just pass through Chiang Rai on their way to Laos, but trust us, it has a lot to offer!

We partnered up with another couple for the day and hired a car and driver , to take us around the sights. You can easily find tour packages in the many tourist shops along the main strip. The tour costs 600 Baht ($19.86) per person for a full day. Here are a few stops we made whilst on the tour.

White Temple

A new and unique temple that represents walking through the two realms; heaven and hell. The cost to enter is free. Visitors are required to cover their knees and shoulders. If you are wearing shorts, then you can rent a long skirt for 20 Baht ($0.66) from a stall just before entering the temple grounds.

Black House

The temple has a very different spin from the rest. Aside from the oddly unique design, everything inside is Gothic-like. The cost to go inside the grounds and the main house is 80 Baht ($2.65) per person.

Tea Plantations

Watch how tea is created whilst admiring the rolling, lush green tea fields.

Doi Tung Villa

Doi Tung Villa is the house and the gardens of the Princess Mother. You can go inside and take a headphone-guided tour through the house before relaxing in the lush gardens. The cost to enter is 90 Baht ($2.98) and includes the headphone guide.

Golden Triangle and House of Opium

On our trip we drove up to the golden triangle; where Thailand, Laos , and Myanmar meet. The golden triangle is also well-known for the wide distribution of opium. The admission fee to the House of Opium is 50 Baht ($1.65) per person.

Getting from the north of Thailand down to the southern islands

After travelling to the North of Thailand, many people who are continuing their travels around Southeast Asia cross the border into Laos , either via bus or slow boat into Luang Prabang . After completing the banana backpacking trail through Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia it’s common for backpackers to head for some beach time in Bali or to loop back into Thailand and head South to the Thai islands. Given the choice though, we fully recommend beach time in Thailand over Bali. Find out why here !

For those who are just travelling to Thailand, you would need to take an overnight bus to Bangkok, or a flight to your destination in the South, before continuing your journey. If you’re travelling overland, once you reach Bangkok, there are plenty of transport options for the islands. Check out the journey from Bangkok to Koh Phangan here.

South of Thailand and the Islands – Backpacking Thailand route stop 8

After a whirlwind of time exploring the north, you may be ready for some relaxing time on the stunning beaches in the south. There are many islands in the South of Thailand, so you may find it difficult to choose which ones you would like to visit. It could take years to fully explore all the islands, so we had no choice but to choose just a few. We chose to spend our beach time in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, all of which we believe are the perfect spots for first-timers to Thailand. Each place is blessed with ocean waves, diving opportunities , magical sunsets, and late-night parties. We spent most of our time on the islands scooting around on a motorbike and relaxing by the pool or in the sea.

Looking for day trips to take from Phuket? Check out these 6-day trips here.

The above itinerary is best for those that have 6 to 8 weeks, but we know that some people can only take 2 weeks off work. Thailand has so much to offer and it can be difficult to choose where to go. Check out this 2-week itinerary to get the most out of your time.

Getting around the Thai Islands

Phuket – Krabi: Public buses run regularly, cost 150 Baht ($4.96) and take just under 3 hours. There is also the option to take a ferry, but the bus is the cheapest option for those on a budget.

Krabi – Koh Samui: Along the strip in Krabi many tourist shops sell packages to get to Koh Samui. We paid 800 Baht ($26.47) each for the package which consisted of the bus travel and ferry. The total length of the journey is around 12 hours, despite the estimated time of 8 hours. This was due to having to change the bus 3 times.

Koh Samui – Koh Phangan: Ferries run regularly between the two islands. Prices range from 200-250 Baht ($6.22 – $8.27) and take between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Koh Phangan – Koh Tao: Ferries run regularly and take 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Koh Tao. The cost of the ferry ranges from 350 baht – 500 Baht ($11.58 – $16.55).

All of the above journeys can now be booked through Bookaway , a website to help you get around overland easily. All you need to do is open up your phone or laptop and select your journey. No need to go to the ticket office the day before to book your place!

If you need more information on getting around Thailand, make sure to check out this awesome comprehensive guide to transport in Thailand !

How much does it cost to backpack in Thailand?

Overall, Thailand is a cheap country in Asia to travel to . Below is a breakdown of costs for backpackers.

Currency: The local currency is the Thai Baht. At the time of writing the exchange rate is 33 Baht to $ 1.

Daily budget: Thailand is extremely cheap, particularly in the North. For the North of the country, we budgeted 750 Baht ( $2 0) per day, per person. As the South is more touristy, prices of hotels, food, and drink are a lot more, so we budgeted 1,000 Baht ($33) per day, per person.

Accommodation: Hotels/ hostels in the north of Thailand ranged from 250 Baht ($8.27) to 500 Baht ($16.55), for a double room with a private bathroom. In the South, accommodation costs between 600 Baht ($19.86) to 800 Baht ($26.47) for a double room.

Food and drink: Local Thai food costs around 50 Baht ($1.65) per meal in the north. In the South and on the Islands, local food ranges from 80 Baht ($2.65) to 150 Baht ($4.96). The local beer, Chang, costs 50 Baht ($1.65) in the north and 100 Baht ($3.31) in the south.

Motorbike rental : The cost to rent a motorbike for the day ranges from 150 Baht ($4.96) to 200 Baht ($6.62).

For a more detailed breakdown of costs, make sure to check out this in-depth post on how much it costs to travel to Thailand.

Where to stay in Thailand for budget travellers

Charan 41 Hotel, Bangkok – A cosy hostel in a quiet area just outside Koh San Road. The hostel is run by a sweet woman who is very helpful. Every morning she cooked us a delicious breakfast before we started our day. On occasions, she even took us around the city, and to the hospital to help us get our jabs. It was the perfect place to stay for starting our Thailand travel route.

Ayutthaya Riverside House, Ayutthaya  – Located right on the river bank. The rooms are clean and there is a social space downstairs with hammocks to relax in. Perfect for those who want a tranquil stay.

Red Brick Guesthouse, Chiang Mai – A Very popular hostel for young backpackers. The hostel has a swimming pool!

Pai Loess Resort, Pai –  One of the cheapest accommodations with air conditioning. The little huts are very clean and well-decorated. There are also hammocks on the balconies to relax whilst surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Busket Hostel, Chiang Rai – Modern and cosy hostel that is excellently located in the centre of town, and close to transport links. Beds also have curtains for added privacy.

Bed Hostel, Phuket – A modern and clean hostel! It provides dorm rooms and private twin rooms. It’s perfect for the social butterfly.

J Hotel, Krabi – Large, cosy clean rooms with double beds, a TV, and a private bathroom. Some rooms have balconies that overlook the sea. Great views!

Backpackers Hacienda, Koh Phangan  – Located in the quieter area of Koh Phangan, near Thong Sala Night Market . The rooms are basic, but the pool is amazing. The pool overlooks the beach and there is a pool bar as well.

Looking for party hostels in Chiang Mai? Check out these top 4 places to stay and party!

Backpacking Thailand travel tips

Bangkok tuk-tuk scam – Whilst walking around Bangkok you may be approached by tuk-tuk drivers offering to give you a free tour of the city, providing you enter a few shops so they can get free petrol. This does take up a lot of your time, but if you are just hanging around waiting for a flight like we were, then it’s not too bad. If you do decide to do this, then make sure NOT to buy anything from the shops as you are likely to be overcharged.

Far away drop-offs – Beware that when you book a bus you may be dropped off a few kilometres outside of your destination. You will then be greeted by many tuk-tuk drivers, whom you will have to pay to get to where you should’ve been dropped off in the first place. Annoying, we know! Our most memorable bus drop off was at 5.30 am at a petrol station a couple of miles out from Chiang Mai Bus Station.

Temple clothing – On this backpacking Thailand route you visit many temples. When you enter the temples, you will need to cover your shoulders and knees. If you forget to take suitable clothing with you, then don’t worry. You can always rent them from a stall. But try to save your money and remember to bring a sarong.

Expensive south – For those of you who are travelling to the south of Thailand from the north, don’t expect to budget the same amount of money. The south is a lot more touristy, making the prices of accommodation and food more expensive. Even the cost of coffee and toasties in 7Eleven is slightly more expensive.

Couples avoid Pattaya – We would not recommend Pattaya as a beach place for couples and families; the tourism here is mainly aimed at single men. And we all know what we mean by that!

Always agree on a price – When taking a tuk-tuk, taking a tour, or even buying things from the market, always agree on a price first. By agreeing on a price first, you lower the risk of overspending, and both you and the seller know what to expect.

Mosquito bites – Everywhere we went, we were bitten by mosquitoes. We think partly because Thailand was our first destination and we had not yet acclimatized to this part of the world. We were also told that the types of food you eat can also cause more bites. For example, if you eat foods with a lot of oil you are more likely to be bitten. Make sure you get a good repellent and use it twice a day to reduce the risk of those pesky critters eating away at you.

I s Thailand safe for tourists? – All in all, Thailand is super safe for tourists who use their common sense. Just like in any country, don’t take any substances from strangers and always keep your eye on your belongings.

Essential resources for this Thailand travel route

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

We hope this backpacking Thailand route will help you plan your exciting adventure. Of course, this backpacking Thailand route is not fully comprehensive of all the destinations and places to visit in Thailand, but we believe this is a great introduction for first-timers to the country.

Where’s your next destination? Maybe you are crossing over into Laos! Check out our backpacking Laos guide.

Like this post? Pin it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Backpacking Thailand: The New and Improved Guide (NEW 2022)

Are you looking to master the art of backpacking in Thailand? Then you’ve come to the right place  (digital high-five) .

Imagine landing in Thailand filled with confidence. Knowing what to expect, having a solid plan in place, and honing all the necessary skills you need, will imbue you with confidence and let you create an unforgettable trip.

Does this sound too good to be true? It’s not! Below you will find a ton of info and travel tips about backpacking Thailand.

And I promise this is the most complete Thailand Travel Guide on the internet. 

WHAT THIS THAILAND GUIDE WILL DO FOR YOU

And this post will transform you into a Thai Jedi.  Er… that is to say a traveling Thailand Jedi.  I can’t turn you into a Thai Jedi, unless you’re from Thailand, in which case you probably don’t need this post.

Throughout this blog post, we will go into deep detail on topics that you need to know. We’ll talk about everything from planning your budget to crazy high-stakes adventures.

So buckle up fellow travel addicts and by the end of this guide, you’ll gain some important insights on traveling across Thailand.

Let’s get started!

WHY GO BACKPACKING IN THAILAND

Thinking of traveling to Thailand?  But not sure why to choose this wonderful country. Let me help clear it up for you. 

Thailand’s the travel hub, and a major jumping-off point for many travelers embarking on the larger-than-life loop around Southeast Asia.

This also means that for many people,  “the land of smiles”  is their introduction to Southeast Asia.  (which is a bonus because Thailand’s the easiest country in Asia to travel)

But Thailand is much more than a stopover country or home base for expats.

Thailand features everything from pristine beaches to thick jungles. The country is full of pristine islands, spicy – yet delicious cuisine, hectic cities, thick jungles, and ornate temples. 

And that’s just the tip of what Thailand offers. World-class scuba diving, cheap cost of travel. 

Now, top all that off with some of the happiest, most friendly people in the world – Thailand is called the “Land of Smiles” for a reason. If you take the time to  learn Thai  before your trip, you can communicate with these friendly locals with ease, and you can look forward to a more enriching experience.

And what are you left with? Well, one of the most beautiful  places to visit  in the world.

I fell in love with Thailand after only a couple of days. Now, I’ve spent over three years in Thailand, and I still get amazed by the country.

WHERE DO BACKPACKERS IN THAILAND GO?

So before we plan our Thailand Itinerary we should take a quick look at where backpackers in Thailand go. Most backpackers start in  tuk tuk filled Bangkok  for at least a few days at the start of their trip through Southeast Asia.

It makes sense, it’s the capital and main travel port of the country. It’s also worth a few days of your time. Just be prepared for chaos.  But more on that later. 

Leaving Bangkok, travelers lean towards  Chiang Mai  and  Chiang Rai  when visiting  Northern Thailand , and the islands in  Southern Thailand . 

For islands, there are two popular choices. There are the islands on the west coast like Phi Phi, Ko Lanta, and Phuket – the west coast is also your gateway to Krabi. This is also the gateway to the famed Khao Sok National Park.

And on the eastern side of the country lies another popular group of islands.

These islands are  Ko Tao   (one of the most famed islands) , which is known for learning to scuba dive, and Ko Phangan, world-famous for the debaucheries fun-filled full moon party.

There’s also Ko Samui, which is the biggest isle but is visited more by couples than backpackers. And now that we know the big hotspots where backpackers in Thailand go, we can start planning an itinerary. 

CRAFTING YOUR THAILAND ITINERARY 

Bangkok is the starting point for most backpackers who have a Southeast Asia Itinerary. And Thailand’s capital is considered  “the”  gateway to Southeast Asia. 

So I’d bet money that Bangkok is your first stop on your Thailand Itinerary. But after that…then what?

Here are a few well-worn routes you can easily follow and have a great time. These recommended routes let you see the culture, and explore a few of the best places in Northern Thailand, but also give you time to relax on a beautiful beach. 

Popular Thailand Backpacking Routes

POPULAR THAILAND BACKPACKING ROUTES

As a solo traveler, these routes are good if you’re looking to meet other travelers. But mix and match or make your itinerary. This is your Thailand Adventure after all! 

THAILAND BACKPACKING ROUTE 1 (NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN THAILAND)

• Bangkok:  2 Days
• Chiang Mai / Chiang Rai:  3 – 4 Days
• Koh Tao:  4 days (longer if learning to scuba dive)
• Koh Phangan:  2 -3 Days (for Full Moon Party)

BACKPACKING ROUTE 2 (ISLAND HOPPER)

• Khao Sok National Park:  2 Days
• Krabi:  3 Days
• Ao Nang:  3 Days
• Phi Phi island:  3 Days
• Phuket:  4 Days

BACKPACKING ROUTE 3 ( NORTHERN THAILAND)

• Bangkok:  2 Days (Are you sensing a pattern here yet!?)
• Chiang Mai:  4 Days
• Pai:  3 Days
• Chiang Rai:  2 Days
• Chiang Dao:  2 Day

HOW MUCH DOES A TRIP TO THAILAND COST FOR BACKPACKERS

Now that we have some of the best places to go out of the way, let’s look at how many traveling through  Thailand is likely to cost  you. South East  Asia travel is cheap  compared to other parts of the world like Europe. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT THAILAND?

What’s a good budget for backpacking Thailand? How much money do you need for Thailand? How many does it cost to backpack in Thailand vs staying in hotels?

Let’s answer all your questions. 

Like most places in the world, prices vary on location. And Thailand isn’t an exception to this rule. 

The general travel rule is that the  islands are more expensive , and this is also true about the Islands of Thailand.

The far north of the country is what English and Aussies commonly refer to as  “cheap as chips”.

Cities in Northern Thailand, like Chiang Mai , have become famed among ex-pats, nomads, and backpackers as a budget traveler’s dream.

In  Southern Thailand,  backpacker hotspots like Phuket and Phi Phi are still cheap, compared to many other countries… but are much more expensive than the cities in Northern Thailand. 

With the massive boom of both short- and long-term travelers in the North, the prices are rising.

But when compared to Western prices, anywhere you go to  Thailand is cheap!  Making it an ideal country for a backpacker.

I’ve spent less than $20 and more than $100 a day when traveling in Thailand. It all depends on your style and comfort level. 

If you’re on a shoestring budget – which entails eating delicious street food, sacrificing a room with an AC for one with a fan. As well as shopping at local markets for fruit and quick meals, and opting for local transportation compared to the fancier buses, then plan on spending  $20-$30   (625 -935 THB)  daily.

If you want to find a delicate balance between budget and luxury, then plan on spending between  $40-$60  (1250-1880 THB)  per day.

For those who want to live like a king, then it is going to cost you over $100+ per day. Most tourists spend somewhere in the middle. I’d say a good fun budget for Thailand is $30 – $50 a day. This includes your hostel. 

HOW MUCH WOULD IT COST TO GO TO THAILAND FOR 2 WEEKS?

Based on the logic above, let’s figure out  how much it would cost to go to Thailand for 2 weeks . 

For bare-bones backpackers, I would suggest somewhere between  $300 – $400.  This isn’t ideal as you won’t be doing much other than cheap sightseeing and cheap eating. 

A much more reasonable budget for two weeks in Thailand is  $500 . Plus, add a few more hundred if you want to get your scuba diving license.

BUDGET EXTRA FOR THAILAND ADVENTURES

Exploring Thailand means that there’s always an adventure within arm’s reach.

After all, the land of smiles is much more than friendly faces and scenic landscapes. It is also famed for its scuba diving, island hopping, zip-lining, Elephant Nature Park,  Thailand’s full moon parties , and  Sak Yant  tattoos.

If any of these adventures sound like they are up to your alley, then remember to add them to your budget.

COST OF ADVENTURES IN THAILAND

• Scuba Diving:  Open Water: $150 – $350
• Chiang Mai Zipline Experience:  $134 (4,199 THB)
• Snorkel Tours:  $34 (1,156 THB)
• Elephant Sanctuary:  $80 – $190 (2,500 – 6,000 THB) 
• Rock Climbing:  $30 (900 – 1,000 THB)
• Free Diving:  $150 (4,900 THB)
• White Water Rafting:  $50 (1,590 THB)
• Cooking Classes:  $40 – $60 (1,250 – 1875 THB)
• Sak Yant- Bamboo Tattoo:  $250 (7,800 THB)
• 8-Day Thailand Tour:  $850 (26,570 THB)

Thailand Budget Breakdown

Thailand packing list.

Another thing we need to touch on is what to pack when backpacking in Thailand. Personally, this is subjective, as what I consider vital might not be important to you. 

 WHAT DO YOU NEED TO PACK FOR THAILAND?

 While everyone will have a different packing list, here is a good base list of what every traveler should do when traveling to Thailand. 

OUR BACKPACK OF CHOICE (OSPREY FARPOINT)

Behold our backpack of choice, the Osprey Farpoint. This backpack has great suspension, 2 internal compression straps, and an unzippable day pack.

• A High-Quality Backpack  (I like Osprey Backpacks) 
• A Day Trip Backpack
• Shoes and flip-flops you can get on and off easily  (more on this later) .
• Modest clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Also, remember swimwear if you are heading to the Thai island.
• Passport  / And Passport Holder
• Reusable Water Bottle  (Life Straw) 
• Travel Insurance  (We recommend Safety Wing or World Nomads – they are cheap and good!)
• A Good Camera
• International Travel Converter
• Toiletries and Towel

BONUS ITEMS FOR YOUR THAILAND PACKING LIST

• Medical Kit
• Unlocked Phone
• USB Charger

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THAILAND?

 Whenever I write about the best time to backpack in (insert country of choice here) I always feel like a  lonely planet  wannabee. Thailand caters to travelers’ needs and every type of traveler. Whether you are a luxury traveler or a dirty backpacker  (like myself) , Thailand offers plenty of things no matter when you visit! 

“So when is the best time to visit Thailand?”, you ask. 

Anytime!! And that is one of the best travel tips I can give you! 

This means that the flood of travelers never stops. Although tourism slows down in the summer because of the brutal heat. But the low season isn’t that low. 

WHAT IS THE BEST MONTH TO GO TO THAILAND?

The overall conscience is that the  best month to visit Thailand is November . This is when the weather is dry and cool. Temperatures during this time are mild. However, you can’t be wrong in planning an island vacation anytime between October to December.

WHAT IS THE COLDEST MONTH IN THAILAND?

The coldest month in Thailand in January . But with the average temperature in January being  82 °F (28 Celsius)  one can hardly call it cold. The coldest temperature recorded was 55°F. But even that was 80 years ago. 

WHERE TO GO IN THAILAND

Earlier I touched on some of the most important places to visit in Thailand. But now let’s dig a little deeper. 

Thailand has it all! 

Looking for scenic islands?  You got it.  Dreaming of motorbiking through a mountainous jungle?  No problem! 

Or maybe you want to spend your time navigating the charming chaos of busy cities?  Well, Thailand has that too .

A big reason people travel to Thailand is because of the sheer amount of things to do and places to discover.

Let’s look at some of the top places to visit in Thailand.

BANGKOK (BKK)

Ah, Bangkok Thailand (BKK)- also known by its real name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. What to say… like many travelers, I have a  love/hate  relationship with the capital. 

I hate the traffic (seriously it’s some of the worst in the world), that the  BTS Bangkok SkyTrain  doesn’t cover the entire city and the never-ending chaos. The Bangkok Airport is hectic, and a long drive from the city. And being mentally prepared for the chaos can make or break your Bangkok Thailand vacation.

But I love the markets, street food (the major cuisine), Bangkok nightlife, and temples are fantastic. 

The Great City of Immortals (BKK) has its pros and cons! 

Rather than partying the entire time on the well-beaten tourist track, instead, wander off and you find Bangkok is a great city. Buzzing, full of life and culture.

BKK has more than meets the eye. And sadly, most travelers never get off  Koh San Road  (Or Khao San Road) long enough to see it.

I would spend at least  3 days in Bangkok . But if you have limited time and are “wondering what to do in Bangkok in two days?”

Travel Tips for Bangkok

Bangkok Time:  Like I mentioned, the traffic in the capital is a mess. So it takes longer to get from A to B. This is often referred to as BKK time. And the way to deal with it is to add some extra time to your schedule to travel. Or go sightseeing super early and retreat to the area around your hotel during the afternoon and evening. 

Bangkok News:  Stay updated on the latest Bangkok news. This will let you know if there are trending places to visit or places to avoid. Also, keep checking the Southeast Asia forum for the latest updates and travel news.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Chiang mai (cm).

Chiang Mai is my 2nd home! It is cheap, beautiful and friendly. And I often get asked, “Why Chiang Mai?” .

The city, which is surrounded by the ruins of an ancient wall, is nestled in between tall hills in Northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai Thailand’s major claim to fame is the food (Koh Soi I’m looking at you), outdoor adventures, Elephant Sanctuary, botanic garden Chiang Mai, and the cheap price tag.

There are always a lot of backpackers or expats roaming Chiang Mai, making it easy to meet other travelers.

Chiang Mai has a noteworthy night market. And the food in Northern Thailand is fantastic. 

Chiang Mai Mueang (The main part of the city) is teeming with great hostels to choose from, restaurants, and markets. 

There’s just something about Chiang Mai Thailand that captivates travelers.

chiang mai accommodation

Ah, Pai, The compact city surrounded by mountains has become a hippie’s paradise. Pai is all about river trips, trekking, or swinging in a hammock being lazy.

Nowadays Pai is a tourist trap and has lost much of its authenticity. But the area is still insanely beautiful.

Pai is only a few hours north of Chiang Mai. A popular thing to do is ride the treacherous, windy road from Chiang Mai to Pai.

Bikers beware. The mountainous road between the two cities has hundreds of twists and turns that have caused more than a few travelers to wipe out.

Ko Tao is a Thailand Island known for its scuba diving, but it is also a good place to relax and enjoy beach life. It is the cheapest place I have seen to get your open-water diving license. It also has a beautiful beach where most tourists stay  (and party) .

For those seeking soft sandy beaches, head to the lesser-known Sai Nuan. Koa Tao has some hidden gems for those willing to do a little work. And for those looking for a Thailand adventure, it is a great island to learn to scuba dive. 

One thing I like about Koh Tao is that it’s a hotspot for other people backpacking in Thailand. It caters to backpackers; isn’t overrun with fancy resorts or five-star hotels. Hostels and dive centers rule the sands of Koh Tao.

It has decent nightlife, though not nearly as good as the parties in Koh Phangan and Koh Phi Phi.

RAILAY (OR RAI LEH)

Heading to the south of Thailand, then add Railway to your  bucket list . The railway’s cut off from the rest of the mainland by gigantic limestone cliffs. These towering barriers give the area a secluded and relaxing atmosphere and make the peninsula only reachable by boat. It’s home to soft, sandy beaches, panoramic views, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Its secluded nature might trick you into believing that Rai Leh’s an often the beaten path spot. Sadly, that isn’t the case, and it’s a popular place to visit among beach bums. And there are beach bungalows and resorts to chillax. But Railay Beach is still one of the best beaches in Thailand. 

And while this area’s become touristy, it’s still a great place to take a couple of days, relax, and charge your travel batteries.

Krabi is a major hub for the southern coast region. It’s the gateway to Railay as well.

Krabi’s a paradise, which has outstanding beaches, and large limestone rocks. It’s a tropical retreat for people looking for sun, beaches, emerald waters, and nature.

Krabi’s also known as a hopping-off point for island hopping. You can get  Tup Island ,  Poda Island ,  Chicken Island , and  Hong Island .

KOH PHI PHI ISLAND

For those looking to party on their Thailand vacation, then is a popular spot. 

But for Koh Phi Phi, I am torn. This island has excellent diving, viewpoints, snorkeling, and nightlife. 

However, all this comes at a price, as the island doesn’t feel like Thailand. 

It always has a massive influx of tourists. The party scene is out of control and it fills more like  a pleasure  playground  from Pinocchio .

Phi Phi is also by Phuket and Ao Nang. Making this a solid choice to add to your Thailand Itinerary. 

Party too hard on Phi Phi and you never know what is going to happen. You might even end up waking up in your hostel with a drunken souvenir of a  Palm Tree tattoo  on your butt… or so I’ve heard (*Cough) .

They have developed Koh Chang into a modern tourist destination with a wide range of accommodation options available to suit all budgets. There are many activities to keep visitors occupied during their stay on the island, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, sailing, and fishing.

Koh Chang has some of the best beaches in Thailand. From white sand beaches to rocky coves, there is something for everyone on this stunning island. There are also many attractions for visitors to enjoy, such as snorkeling, diving, exploring caves, and hiking through mountains.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN THAILAND

Still not sure what to do in Thailand? You’re in luck because I’ve spent 3 years in Thailand. And in all that time, after hundreds of hours spent on night buses and trains. I’ve come up with the best list of things to do when traveling to Thailand, from visiting a Bangkok night market to giving you ideas for a day trip.

So let’s look at some of the best  things to do in Thailand .

LEARN TO SCUBA DIVE

Thailand’s famous for its amazing dive spots. Many of the dive spots are top-notch. It is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn scuba diving; the instructors cater to travelers and their passion for diving is contagious. 

The ocean is my biggest fear; I faced that fear on Koh Tao and scuba diving has become an addiction even after being  stranded in a tropical storm .  (On Koh Tao I recommend Big Blue Divers) 

KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

Khao Sok National Park is a massive national park full of rainforests, flora, fauna, and wildlife. There are quiet pools, thick jungles, gushing waterfalls, limestone mountains, and rain forest. It’s an incredible spot to take in some of the best landscapes the country offers.

Because of the park’s beauty and easy accessibility, many considered it the most popular national park on the mainland. But, it’s big enough that you never feel as if you are doing a touristy activity.

It’s an excellent place to spot wild monkeys, elephants, Asian black bears, wild boars, and Indochinese serow – just to name a few.

Of course, we are budget travelers, so we need to talk about endless things to do. Khoa Sok has lake  tours , hiking, cooking lessons, kayaking, biking, cruelty-free elephant trekking, and lodges to stay in.

You’ll never get bored at Khoa Sok National Park.

SONGKRAN (BKK OR CM)

New Year in Thailand turns into the  biggest  water fight in the world. Tourists and locals alike throwing buckets of water on each other take entire city blocks over, waring with water guns, and having a wet and wild blast. 

No one is safe or spared from getting soaked during Songkran! The biggest New Year celebrations are in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. 

Songkran runs between April 13-15 every year. 

FULL MOON PARTY (KOH PHANGAN)

The infamous  Thailand full moon party  takes place on the Island of Koh Phangan. What started with a few backpackers a couple of decades ago has grown to a massive party of tens of thousands.

Travelers flock to the beach for a drunken night of fire ropes, slides, body paint, booze, and dancing. Nowadays, islanders go through half-moon parties, and  3 days of pre and after-parties . 

The party on Koh Phangan never stops, although Full Moon is still the biggest night.

During the party, a local trying to sell you drugs will approach you. My advice is to avoid them as they are undercover cops.

TALING FLOATING MARKET (BKK)

This weekend market is one of the most popular markets in the city , probably because it’s so close to Bangkok.

Vendors bob and weave their boats through the river, selling their wares along the way. It is great for photos and food like pad thai or fresh fruit. But as a traveler expect to pay higher prices.

ELEPHANT NATURE PARK (CM)

When people ask me what they should do in Chiang Mai, I always suggest spending some time volunteering at the Elephant Nature Park. 

This park has become famous globally. They help rehabilitate elephants that have spent years suffering the abuses of captivity and get them ready to release back into the wild. (it’s a  bucket list idea )

GRAND PALACE (BKK)

This elaborate royal palace was built over 250 years ago. They filled the massive complex with golden buildings covered in gems. Even to this day, it is the most grandiose palace I’ve ever seen. 

Dotted throughout the palace are large gold statues. It is also home to a famous reclining Buddha. 

The price ticket is a little steep at $16, but it is worth checking out, especially if this is your first time in Southeast Asia. 

LIVEABOARD (SIMILANS ARCHIPELAGO) 

This elaborate royal palace was built over 250 years ago. The massive complex is teeming with golden buildings covered in gems. Even to this day it is the most grandiose palace I’ve ever seen.

Dotted throughout the palace are enormous gold statues. It is also home to a famous reclining Buddha.

The price ticket is a little steep at $16, but the royal palace is a noteworthy site when backpacking Thailand.

WHITE AND BLACK TEMPLES (CHIANG RAI)

The white temple is unlike any other temple I’ve ever seen  (and I’ve seen enough temples for two lifetimes).

They colored the entire temple seashell white and boast an otherworldly design. This stunning temple is also free!

The black temple’s surrounded by gardens, handfuls of trees pepper the grounds, small forest surrounds the meadows of the complex. There’s a tranquil peacefulness found in the simplicity of the black temple designs.

Both temples are a few hours away from CM. And are in the nearby city of Chiang Rai.

ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK (KANCHANABURI PROVINCE)

Landscape lovers pack your bags and head to this national park. Here indulge yourself in jungle treks, gushing waterfalls, still pools, and small streams. It’s an impressive place for hiking, and nature photography. It is one of the best places in Thailand to explore the outdoors.

This stunning nature park lies a few hours outside of Bangkok.

STICKY WATERFALLS (CM)

On a scorching summer day in Chiang Mai, the locals retreat to Bua Thong (better known as the sticky waterfalls). Limestone minerals coat the rocks of the waterfalls making the surface sticky enough for your feet to cling to them and you can easily climb up them.

Imagine your friend’s jaws dropping when you tell them you walked up waterfalls in Thailand! These unique waterfalls are an off-the-beaten-path site.

MAYA BAY (NEAR KOH PHI PHI)

If you want a deserted beach, then look elsewhere. But, this bay is amazing. Maya Bay skyrocketed to world fame as the island that Mr. DiCaprio lived in the movie” The Beach”. (An essential movie to watch before traveling to Thailand).

As you can imagine because of its fame, Maya Bay in Phi Phi is jam-packed with tourists. But if you work hard, you can still find a quiet spot to soak in all the grand nature.

CHIANG DOA (NORTHERN THAILAND) 

Chiang Doa is a quiet getaway from the more popular cities in the North. This small mountain city sees little-to-no tourism. Scattered around the area are a few local homestays, jungle temples, and hot springs to enjoy.

Chiang Doa’s all about nature! And this dusty city’s ideal for backpackers seeking an adventure off the beaten path in Thailand.

COOKING LESSONS

A big part of Backpacking Thailand is stuffing your face with the food. Thai food is some of the best on the planet. With the massive array of coconut curries, satays, and spices I think we can all agree that the food in Thailand is some of the best in the world. Seriously, try to think of a country with tastier food! 

Cooking classes treat you to outstanding food, fast friends, and a fun souvenir you can use for the rest of your life.

Even if you have a zero interest in cooking, a class is still fun and you get to try new foods!

BOTTLE BEACH (KOH PHANGAN)

Getting to Bottle Beach takes a little of work. But because it’s remote, you won’t have to throngs of other travelers. This is just one of Thailand’s most amazing beaches. 

At max, you’ll see a handful of other travelers. But there’s a good chance you’ll have the entire beach to yourself!

PAMPER YOURSELF AT THE SPA

Treat Yourself!

Thailand is the land of cheap/outstanding massages! And just because you’re backpacking Thailand cheap doesn’t mean you can’t build a little luxury in your budget. 

A Thai massage is a simultaneously blissful and painful experience. Massages start at around $10 an hour.

Whenever I am in Thailand, I average around two massages a week (Don’t judge me).

SNORKEL TOURS (PHI PHI)

If diving doesn’t float your boat then why not try snorkeling? It’s the next best thing. Phi Phi has a world-class snorkeling.

You can go right from the beaches or venture to more remote locations on a snorkeling tour. Ao Nang snorkeling is another great option when picking a Thailand Tour. 

SAK YANT TATTOO (BKK OR CM)

Getting a  bamboo tattoo  from a  monk  is one of the most memorable moments of my travel career.

We can trace these protection tattoos back in Thailand’s history over two thousand years. They originate from the old Lana Kingdom in the Chiang Mai region, which is where I got mine.

It is much more than a tattoo it is an experience that stays with you. I arranged my Sak Yant through  Where Sidewalks End .

Koh Lipe  is getting more and more popular, but still less touristy than many other major islands.

Koh Lipe is a perfect spot to chill on pristine beaches, relax in a hammock, and soak in the beauty of Thailand.

Being away from the noise and crowds that plague the other islands is just a bonus. 

DIVE CHUMPHON PINNACLE (KOH TAO)

Besides the Similans it is my favorite place to dive on Koh Tao. Specifically, the Chumphon Pinnacle, which is my first scuba diving experience ever.

The Pinnacle has great visibility and a variety of fun sea creatures to check out. And if you’re lucky, you might even glimpse a Whale Sharks, although, they are rare.

BOAT THROUGH BKK

A semi-touristy attraction. And as a bonus, it’s a fast and fun way to see Bangkok.

There’s something special about seeing the  “Magnificent City of the Nine Gems”  while whisking your way through the water.

You get outstanding views of a few of BKK’s popular temples. You can also ride the boat right to the doorstep of the Grand Palace, which lets you knock out two things at once!

One thing to remember. Is that Thailand has many more things to do than listed here? After all my time spent in the country, after dozens of beaches, parties, and hangovers I have only scratched the surface of this. You could spend a lifetime venturing around Thailand and not get bored. 

Even with a lifetime to explore every inch of Thailand, you wouldn’t do everything. 

Visit wat pho in Central Thailand

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a large Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok, Thailand. They have built the temple over the site for over one hundred years and contains over 100 buildings and structures. It is one of the most important landmarks in Thailand and also one of the largest structures in Southeast Asia.

NIGHT MARKETS (ALL OF THAILAND)

Hands down one of my favorite things about visiting Thailand. Night markets engulf the senses with vibrant colors, 

Haggling merchants, and lots of great smelling – and tasting – food. These markets are hubs for souvenirs and cheap food. No matter where you are visiting in Thailand, I can almost guarantee there’s a market nearby. 

Climb to the Top of Doi Inthanon

There are many reasons to visit Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest mountain in Thailand and the country’s most important national park. It’s a beautiful area that is home to several fascinating cultural traditions, one of which is the local cuisine.

If you are planning a trip to Doi Inthanon, you will want to check out these restaurants for some delicious local food and drink.

Doi Sup Thep

 The famous temple is in Chiang Mai. Full of gold statues, and has some fantastic views of the city.

Other famous temples to visit in Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep,

Wat Chedi Luang,

Wat Chiang Man

Wat Suan Dok

Pai Canyon is a beautiful place to visit in Pai, Thailand. It’s not just the scenery that makes Pai Canyon so special, but the rich history behind it as well.

The Pai Canyon National Park is located in the Mae Hong Son Province of northern Thailand. The national park covers an area of 9,000 square kilometers and is home to many different kinds of wildlife creatures such as birds and large mammals. 

North Thailand in general is home to a more jungle-like landscape.

FLYING TO THAILAND

I’ve got good news for you  (you can thank me later)  flights to Thailand are cheaper than you think. I’ve flown round trip from the US for less than $500 bucks. 

I’ve flown from the U.S. to Thailand one way for under  $300 .

That is halfway around the world for cheaper than it cost to fly to Europe! Now that is an  insanely cheap flight ! 

Utilize airline tools like Skyscanner and  Kayak Explore  to your advantage and you will save hundreds of your travel budget getting to Thailand.

WHAT MONTH IS THE CHEAPEST TO FLY TO THAILAND?

September is the cheapest month to fly to Thailand. Right before the high tourism season starts in November. But there are a lot of cheap flights to Thailand from May – October. And with a little work, you can find a cheap flight to Thailand almost any time of the year. 

GETTING AROUND WHEN BACKPACKING IN THAILAND

The main modes of transportation around Thailand are buses, ferries, trains, and budget airlines. 

Dreaming of motorbiking through a mountainous jungle? If you are feeling a little more adventurous you can rent a motorbike and drive the country yourself. Just make sure you have an  international driving license  that covers motorbikes or gets ready to fork out cash for hefty fines  (a.k.a bribes) .

Motorbiking around Thailand isn’t as popular as in other countries in Southeast Asia like  Vietnam , but you will still run into people doing it.

Before booking any mode of transportation talk to the staff at the place you are staying. They will point you to trustworthy companies, list out your options, and give you prices so you can avoid getting ripped off. 

Many hotels and hostels can even book things for you.

Buses are the undisputed king of traveling in Thailand.

When booking buses make sure to get the VIP ticket which only costs a couple of dollars more. Perks of the VIP ticket include extra legroom, snacks, a blanket, and a reclining seat.

Chances are you will spend dozens of hours on buses so upgrading is worth it. If you are heading to the islands, the bus ticket also covers the cost of the ferry ride.

BUDGET AIRLINES

The three biggest budget airlines in Thailand are  Air Asia ,  Nok Air , and  Thai Smile . Air Asia is the most well-known. This means that seats fill up and prices rise quickly.

There are only a few airports on the islands and sadly budget airlines don’t fly there direct. Instead, you fly to a nearby airport and then hop on a  bus/ferry  combo to get to your destination. Bangkok Airways is the only airline I know that flies directly to the  islands like Koh Samui in Thailand  and these tickets are expensive. Although, sometimes you can score a good fair on  Skyscanner  or Kayak so it is worth a quick search.

I’ve only ridden the rails on a few night trains (from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and vice versa). Trains are priced similarly to buses and are a little slower. But, sleeper trains are more comfortable than buses.

For example, an overnight bus or train ticket from Bangkok to Chiang Mai costs around 15-20 USD. 

But on the overnight train, you get your bed that is also equipped with a privacy curtain so you don’t have to fret about people staring at you.

How to book the overnight train in Thailand?

Booking an overnight train in Thailand is easy. Most of the time your hotel or hostel will be able to do it for you. Another option is to go to the train station that morning and book your ticket. 

A minibus is a code word for a van. They are a little more expensive than the VIP buses and have less legroom. You are sacrificing comfort for speed.

However, because they are fast they are ideal for smaller journeys and day trips.

Personally, after a handful of hours in these vans, I start feeling cramped. I avoid overnight minibus trips at all costs. Mini-buses are quicker than an overnight bus. But are more expensive and less comfortable. 

METERED TAXIS

In the big cities only use metered taxis or are prepared to get ripped off. Even many of the metered taxis will want to negotiate a fare instead of using the meter. I always ask the driver  “Meter”  before getting into the cab. 

Chances are you will have to hail a few cabs before you find one that will agree but it will save you a lot of money. If you can’t find a taxi that is willing to use the meter then turn to Lyft or Uber Bangkok which is insanely cheap. 

In my experience, it is still cheaper than the fare the Taxi will offer you.

Outside of the big cities, you might be forced to take tuk-tuks, any available taxi, or Songtow’s. Put in these areas they are more reasonably priced.

STAYING SAFE WHEN TRAVELING THAILAND

Thailand is a very safe country for travelers. However, it is always smart to brush up on your safety tips.

Don’t be worried about traveling through Thailand. But like anywhere else in the world, there are some  safety tips  to increase your odds of exploring the country without trouble. 

Trust Your Gut –  The gut knows what the gut knows. If your gut is telling you to get out of a situation listen to it. Just make sure it is your gut, not your mind talking. 

Know Your Info –  Researching the areas you are going, to and staying, will help you choose the best, and safest areas to stay in.

Tell Someone –  If you are a little unsure about where you are going, then let someone your trust know where are going, and what you are doing. 

  Carry Contact Info –  One important thing that will help keep you safe, while traveling in Thailand, is to carry the emergency contact info in your wallet or purse. 

That way if you need to get a hold of the tourist police you have the contact info right on hand. Below you’ll find the emergency contact information and the contact info for the BKK United States Embassy. 

EMERGENCY CONTACTS FOR THAILAND

Tourist Police Phone:  1155.  United States Embassy.

Address:  95 Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Monday – Friday: 7 AM-4PMSaturday Closed Sunday

Phone:  +66 2 205 4000

PLANNING THAILAND TRIP

What are the essentials when visiting Thailand? Below is a checklist of what you will need.

Here’s everything you need to help you  plan your trip  to Thailand. 

Most of you reading this won’t need a visa before heading to Thailand. Thailand has a visa-exempt agreement with 55 countries (you just get a stamp on your passport). And another 21 countries can apply for a visa on arrival (VOA).

The length of the visas varies depending on your passport, but most last around 30 -60 days.

Some passports can also extend their visa another 30 days from a consulate, which makes for 60-90 days in the country.

Most travelers can also extend their visas for another 30 – 60 days for a fee, which cost around $60, 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Southeast Asia is organized chaos. It is full of crazy traffic, strange bugs, dodgy roads, foreign germs, and wild adventures. But insurance is a hot topic for some travelers. I view travel insurance as an investment in myself.

For example, in Thailand, a buddy of mine got bit by a monkey and had to get $1,600 in shots which the insurance covered.

I’ll never tell you to have to get travel insurance. That is a conversation between you, your wallet, and your body. I always make sure I am covered. But everyone is different. 

For insurance, I use the Safety Wing!

They have great prices  (starting at $40 a month)  and fantastic coverage.  They have saved me thousands of dollars over the last two years.  And reimbursed my flight back to America when COVID was shutting down the world. 

WHY I RECOMMEND SAFETY WING

When the world started shutting down last March because of COVID, they forced me to get an emergency flight back to the states.

The only flight I could find was first class on BA, which cost more than $2,000.

Luckily I had invested in Safety Wing Travel Insurance. Which completely reimbursed me for the flight!

I’ll never travel without them!  Check out Safety Wing here .

WITHDRAWING MONEY WHEN  BACKPACKING THAILAND

ATMs are a dime a dozen in Thailand, and if you have informed your bank abroad then withdrawing money is easy. 

Expect a hefty 200 THD withdrawal fee  (6 USD)  from 99% of all the ATMs, plus, whatever international withdrawal fee your bank might tack on. I bank with Charles Schwab which  reimburses all ATM fees  at the end of the month. 

Yes, you read that right, I get all fees deposited back into my account! This has saved me thousands over the years. 

Another good option for travelers is AEON ATMs which  waive the withdrawal fee . These ATMs are usually outside of TESCO Lotus and other major stores. 

Most ATMs in Thailand will accept foreign cards, however, I have come across a few that denied me. Bangkok Bank is the biggest bank in the country and I have never had problems with their ATMs.

Bhat to USD Exchange Rate

Since my first trip to Thailand 5 years ago the exchange rate from  USD to THB  has always hovered somewhere around  1 USD = 32 or 33 THB. 

WHERE TO STAY IN THAILAND

Thailand caters to every type of traveler and prices vary wildly depending on your preference. 

Hostel dorms are the cheapest and you can get a good dorm room for as little as $7 a night but a fancy hotel could easily set you back $150 per night. 

Staying in hostels is one of the easiest ways to reduce the  cost of traveling in Thailand . 

Although, for about $25 a night you’ve scored yourself a decent hotel in Thailand. And while the average price of Airbnb might seem high it is easy to find an  awesome Airbnb for 15-35 USD   (plus, you can use this  Airbnb coupon code to save $40 off  your first booking) .

Most of the vaccines you need for Thailand you probably got at a child. No vaccines are required to visit Thailand.

However, you want to make sure you are caught up on  tetanus, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and rabies.  If you are going to rural areas then you might also want to consider meningitis and  tuberculosis, and encephalitis .

20 THAI PHRASES EVERY  TRAVELER SHOULD KNOW

Wait! Don’t skip this section.

I think it is vital for travelers to know at least a few words in the languages of the  country they are visiting . I realize a lot of people get shy about trying new languages and are too embarrassed to try. But the truth is that most people love it when you try to speak their language even if you butcher it.

It shows a measure of respect and that you care about the culture you are visiting.

I’ve messed up countless times trying to talk to locals, but it always ends with a laugh and a thank you!

There are a couple of things you need to know about the language before looking at these phrases.

1-  the Thai Language is tonal, meaning the same words said in different tones have different meanings.

2-   There are different words depending on what gender you identify with – Krub  (Men) /  Ka  ( Women) .

These are polite words you will use in almost any interaction in Thailand. These phrases are helpful if you are venturing off the beaten path in Thailand.

7 THINGS TO AVOID WHEN  BACKPACKING THAILAND

Thailand is a popular country for tourists. One of the cons of this is that certain aspect of the country is exploited for the benefit of the tourist. Here are 10 tourist traps you should sidestep as a traveler.

RIDING ELEPHANTS

Elephants are the largest sector of animal tourism in Thailand. I encourage you to resist the urge to ride an Elephant. 

These majestic creatures are held in captivity and abused to tame them for tourists. And this abuse will keep going as long as people are paying to ride them.

Is an Elephant ride worth the fact that you would be directly funding the torture of an animal? I didn’t think so.

Why we are on the subject also avoid the Tiger Temple. They are suspected of animal trafficking and drugging the tigers. So be responsible and do go to the Tiger Temple for a day trip. 

TOUCHING MONKS

Looking for that epic Monk selfie to pad your Instagram feed? 

I hate to burst your bubble but there is a huge chance that it’s not going to happen. Monks are revered in Thailand.

They carry a lot of respect and admiration. It’s forbidden for women to come into contact with Monks. It is so strict that most monks won’t even let women hand them things.

Men are allowed to come into contact with monks but even this is rare. The only time I’ve had physical contact with a monk is during my Sak Yant. The rest of the time I keep a couple of feet between us to show respect.

SEX TOURISM

Thailand is infamous for its sex tourism. Party streets and certain massage parlors are often a hub for these shady dealings. Many girls are forced into this way of life from a young age.

And it is better for everyone if you avoid it. Places like Pattaya have made their name off of sex tourism and it is still a thriving industry.

NEVER TOUCH A THAI PERSON ON THE HEAD

If Thais see the feet as the lowest part of the body you can easily deduce that the head is the highest. Never, ever touch a local on the head. This is considered a major social faux pas.

I’ve seen locals get aggressive when a drunken westerner did this on purpose. It’s the only time I’ve seen a local get aggressive. If you accidentally touch someone’s head it’s ok, but make sure to apologize to them.

NEVER SPEAK BAD ABOUT THE ROYAL FAMILY

Thailand loves its Royal family even if the son of the late king isn’t as popular as his father. There are strict laws about saying anything negative or bad about the Royal Family. If the wrong person hears it you can get fined.

Getting too handsy in public with your significant other isn’t polite. No one would say anything, but you might get some looks. You might be able to get away with holding hands  (Though I would avoid it) . Kissing in public is extremely disrespectful. Respect the culture of Thailand and keep your hands to yourself.

WATCH WHERE YOU POINT YOUR FEET

Feet are considered dirty, so pointing your feet at people is one of the worst things you can do. You only need to be conscious of this in places that require you to take your shoes off like shops and temples.

USING A TUK TUK

Avoid riding in a tuk-tuk. There are way more expensive and are usually a rip-off. If you want to do it once for the experience (and let’s be honest, the selfie) make sure to haggle with your tuk-tuk driver to get a lower price. And don’t take it too far. 

ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT THAILAND ANSWERED

Still have questions about traveling to Thailand….no worries. Here we rapid-fire answer some of the biggest questions travelers have about backpacking in Thailand.

ON MY THAILAND BACKPACKING ROUTE HOW LONG TO SPEND IN EACH PLACE?

When traveling Thailand 3-5 days in each place is a good amount deciding how long to spend in each place. Of course, this can change drastically depending on where you are, and what you want to get out of your trip. So research is key.

WHAT SHOULD I BUY IN THAILAND?

Clothes are a popular item to pick up in Thailand. Cloths’ are cheap and different from what you’ll find back home. Other popular things to buy are Knock Off Name Brands, silk, small carvings, accessories, and jewelry. An Asian night market is a good place to find things to buy.

DO YOU NEED TO COVER UP TO TRAVEL TO THAILAND?

Short answer, yes. Thailand is a conservative country for most tourists. Women need to cover their cleavage. Shoulders and knees also need to be covered, especially when entering temples. Most temples will not let you enter with a women’s shoulders and knees showing. 

When wondering “What should you not wear in Thailand?”. Just bear in mind that, apart from the beach, you should dress moderately. 

So when it comes to dressing, Thailand is conservative. It bothers me a little when I see a guy shirtless or a girl in a bikini walking down the street.

I don’t get mad at them because chances are they don’t know they are being disrespectful to the culture they are visiting as I haven’t seen many blog posts on the subject.

3 RULES FOR DRESSING PROPERLY IN THAILAND

1-   Never wear something that shows your shoulders. 

2-  Don’t walk around in your swimwear 

3-   If you wearing shorts or a skirt make sure it covers your knees.

A local would never approach someone about how they are dressed and I feel Thailand is getting more accepting of tourists not adhering to these rules.

But following them is showing respect to the people and culture you are visiting. Also, temples won’t let people who are not dressed properly inside.

WHERE WILL YOU GO AFTER THAILAND?

Well, that’s up to you. Like I said at the start, Thailand is the gateway to venturing through the rest of South East Asia. A few popular countries to visit after Thailand are places like.  Travel in Sri Lanka , Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia. 

IS THAILAND SAFE FOR BACKPACKERS?

Yes, overall Thailand is a safe country for travelers and welcoming to tourists. However, it is always important to be cautious and trust your gut when visiting any foreign country. But yes, Thailand is safe for both solo travelers and those traveling in a group. 

The overall conscience that the best month to visit Thailand is in November. This is when the weather is dry and cool. Temperatures during this time are mild. However, you can’t be wrong planning a vacation anytime between October to December.

CAN YOU BRUSH YOUR TEETH WITH TAP WATER IN THAILAND?

Yes, the water in Thailand is safe for brushing your teeth. I recommend brushing your teeth with tap water. It slightly gets your body used to the local water. Although you shouldn’t drink tap water whether you are in Koh Krabi Thailand or Hotel Bangkok, or anywhere in Thailand. 

DO YOU TIP IN THAILAND?

Thailand doesn’t have a tipping culture. So tips are not customary or expected in Thailand. However, if the service is spectacular, for example, after some great food, you can leave a small tip which is greatly appreciated. 

DO MOST THAI SPEAK ENGLISH?

Not every person in Thailand speaks English, but a large majority know enough basic English there’s always an English speaker within arms reach, and locals are happy to help you get around. Remember a big part of Thailand’s economy runs

This is especially true in the bigger cities. Actually, in most capitals in Southeast Asia, from Siem Reap to Kuala Lumpur it’s easy to find locals who speak decent English.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRAVEL TO THAILAND WITH A WATER BOTTLE?

Easy, because tap water isn’t safe to drink. Drinking tap water in Thailand isn’t fatal. But you will become sick, and spend most of your Thailand trip miserable. Don’t drink tap water!

WHY THAILAND IS SO CHEAP?

Thailand is cheaper because the baht is worse than other currencies. Items in Thailand are cheaper to buy because workers are paid less, around 300 Thai baht a day. Food in Thailand is cheap because the country has a large amount of agriculture.

IS 100 DOLLARS A LOT IN THAILAND?

Frankly, yes. For a shoestring traveler, $100 can last you well over a week. $100 is also what the average worker in Thailand gets paid for 10 days of work. Let’s look at some other things $100 can get you in Thailand.

• Over 25 Cheap Meals.
• 3 -5 Nights in a Three Star Resort.
• Over 100 trips on the BTS.
• 2 -3 one-way flights from BKK to CM, or Phuket.

IS BALI CHEAPER THAN THAILAND?

Yes, and no. Bangkok is one of the cheapest cities to fly into in Asia, making the flight to Thailand cheaper than Bali. However, prices for food and lodging are similar, with Bali arguably slightly more expensive. Thailand’s also cheaper when venturing off the well-worn tourist trail. While prices are similar, Thailand is slightly cheaper than Bali. But Neither Bali nor Thailand is considered expensive when compared to western standards.

READING AND MOVIE LIST WHEN  TRAVELING THAILAND

Lastly, let’s end with some fun! After reading all this you understand how awesome and diverse. But sometimes Thailand seems like a strange place. Here are some  fun facts  about the country. 

BRIDGE OF THE RIVER KWAI (BOOK AND MOVIE)

Based on WW II, this book covers POWs forced to help the Japanese get to Burma by building a bridge.

While bridge building might not sound like an entertaining premise for a book, trust me, it’s great. The book takes place in the Kanchanaburi region, which is a popular tourist destination in Thailand. 

THE BEACH (BOOK AND MOVIE)

A fantastic story about a secret hidden community on an island in Thailand. That’s until the shaky truce with the drug dealers crumbles. The book’s great!

The movie, which stars Leonardo DiCaprio, is also fantastic and showcases some of Thailand’s  most beautiful places in the world  to visit. 

And there we go! Everything you need to know about Backpacking Thailand ! Enjoy the land of smiles.

Related Posts

30 best markets in thailand to visit in 2023, 75 best white sand beaches in the world [with photos], 38 awesome things to do in estonia (new 2022), 160 adventure quotes about life, love, and travel, 104 thoughts on “backpacking thailand: the new and improved guide (new 2022)”.

Given that picture of the couple on the scooter, I’m most grateful for your calendar of weather – I shall be avoiding Monsoon season for sure! I’m not really a backpacker but there’s tons of useful information in your guide for everyone

Interesting post! We have friends and family who have visited Thailand many times and love it. We haven’t been there yet, mainly because we’re not into beaches or outdoor activities. But eventually we’ll visit someday when we’ve explored other bucket list countries. The only time we travel far (aka to Asia) would be in July and August. How’s the weather at that time of the year? We’ve heard that it often rains… although according to your post it’s not really monsoon season. Also, it’s good to know that one has to ask the driver “Meter” before getting into the cab. Thanks for sharing this post!

Haha I’ve gotten stuck in Rain like that before in Monsoon season. But most of the time it dumps hard for a couple hours, and then dries up just as quickly.

Interesting post! We have friends and family who have visited Thailand many times and love it. We haven’t been there yet, mainly because we’re not into beaches or outdoor activities. But eventually we’ll visit someday when we’ve explored other bucket list countries. The only time we travel far (aka to Asia) would be in July and August. How’s the weather at that time of the year? We’ve heard that it often rains… although according to your post it’s not really monsoon season. Also, it’s good to know that one has to ask the driver “Meter” before getting into the cab. Thanks for sharing this post!

Hey Mei! I’m glad you asked about the weather as I wrote it backwards. The rainy season is from May – October. So yes your friends are right. July and August are the rainiest months. It isn’t bad though. usual it just rains a couple hours here or there throughout the day. Making sure you get the taxi to agree to a meter is important. Often times in cities like Bangkok you’ll have to ask a few cabs before one agrees. To and from the airport the standard fair is 500 THB so no taxi will agree to the meter their. It is much cheaper to take the train.

One of the things about Thailand that continues to amaze me is how cost effective it is to visit, not just for backpackers. It’s cheap to holiday in Thailand no matter what your budget is. Do you know how much it would cost to learn scuba diving?

For sure! You get a lot of bang for your buck no matter how much of a travel budget you have! Yeah, so any open water license runs somewhere between $150-$350 depending on where you are in Thailand.

Thanks for the detailed travel guide of Thailand. I’ve been to Bangkok and I’m planning on visiting Chiang mai next on a budget so this post was a great help on planning!

Whoa such a good detailed guide to Thailand. It solves issues for all kinds of travelers. And I really liked the varied things to do there.

Fantastic information here and great guide, espeically for me as I am hoping to travel to Thailand for the first time. Its great you given the rough costs to the adventures which people can do, but was really surprised that the Elephant park is $80.

You’ll love Chaing Mai!!

Awesome Indrani! Thanks for the comment. I am glad you found the guide helpful!

Thanks Daniels. Yea it is pretty expensive but all money goes to helping rescued Elephants so it is worth!

What an incredibly comprehensive post on Thailand – I learnt so much! I’ve heard so many lovely things about Chiang Mai, I think I would definitely visit there. I didn’t know some of the etiquette, so that is so useful – especially about monks and not touching Thai people on the head. Great read!

Thanks so much! Glad I could help 🙂 Go to Chiang Mai!!!

Thailand is definitely a budget-friendly destination! And although Koh Phi Phi is filled with tourists, it’s such a gorgeous place 😍 I think I’d probably say “Ped” and then “Hong Naam Yoo Nai” the most in Thailand 😂 I absolutely love how detailed this guide is – thank you! 🙌🏼

Thailand is definitely a budget-friendly destination! And although Koh Phi Phi is filled with tourists, it’s such a gorgeous place ? I think I’d probably say “Ped” and then “Hong Naam Yoo Nai” the most in Thailand ? I absolutely love how detailed this guide is – thank you! ??

Hahah those are two good words to know! Thanks for the kind words and I am glad you enjoyed reading! I agree 100% about Phi Phi!

Wow! I wish I had seen this before I traveled through Thailand! I was also there for songkran and it was so much fun (in bangkok)

Koh phi phi Koh lanta were my fav but I have to visit the north so this is a great guide! thanks!

Thanks for the comment Layla! Awesome! Helping other travelers is my favorite. lol. If you have any question about traveling the North feel free to send me an email!

I haven’t been to Thailand yet but I’m hoping to go in 2020 – it sounds amazing! I didn’t know about dressing conservatively there, I was aware about when you go into temples but I didn’t realise it should be everywhere. I think Bangkok is somewhere you have to go, but Chiang Mai sounds much more my taste!

Haha if you get out of the touristy areas of Bangkok it is really nice! However, Chiang Mai is much more laid back and relaxing! Plus, the food in the north is awesome! When you are planning your 2020 adventures let me know if you have any questions!

I am heading to Thailand this March. Thank you for your tips in this article and I would definitely check out some of the mentioned places.

Glad you found it helpful!

What a great post for traveling to Thailand! Wow! It’s not on my bucket list right now, but I am definitely reconsidering. It is beautiful and affordable and I want to see an elephant in the wild.

Thanks!! I appreciate it. Sadly, your chances of seeing a wild elephant in Thailand are pretty slim. The population is so depleted due to people capturing them and selling them to other countries, or using for tourism. (This is a problem with a lot of animals in Southeast Asia) You can spend some time at the Elephant Nature Park in Chaing Mai. They rehabilitate captured and tortured elephants and help get them ready to go back to the wild.

This sounds like quite the adventure. Most of the time, I read about people backpacking through Europe, but this looks like so much fun. Your post was full of great locations and very detailed.

I do love Europe, but Southeast Asia also holds a big part of my heart!

Streetfood in Thailand is very popular. I’m looking forward to visiting and trying these out.

It’s so good and cheap!

Excellent post! We frequently travel as a family and Thailand is our 2020 destination. I really appreciate all of this valuable information, especially the budget breakdown and etiquette sections.

Sweet! Let me know if you have any questions.

This is such awesome information! I love how you break everything down, including the daily cost! Thank you for sharing!

Of course! I’m here to help 🙂

Thailand is a place I’ve always wanted to go. Good to know it’s backpacker friendly.

It is a country made for backpacking lol

A complete guide to Thailand.Nothing could be more comprehensive.Am going to use it.Thank you for sharing.

Thanks for the kind words!

A daily budget of $180 and living large is very realistic. Thailand is definitely on my list of places to go and this is inspiring me so much!

I would DIE to backpack in Thailand! Oh my gosh, there’s so much information here! Where to start!

Haha glad you liked it! Go!! It is cheap and easy to get to Thailand!

This sounds like a fabulous trip! I would love to visit Thailand someday.

It is worth it!

I definitely want to go to Thailand. Thanks for all of this info this will be helpful for me soon!

Awesome! I am glad I could help! 🙂

Thank you for this very detailed and thorough guide to visiting Thailand. I thought it would cost me an arm and a leg to go there, but I guess not! I have to plan for a trip there soon.

You have got everything covered both for a solo and family trip to Thailand. 😊

WOW!! This is the most comprehensive Thailand resource that I have seen on line. I didn’t know anything about how inexpensive it is to travel in various areas of Thailand so that’s good news. This helps me to determine when to go and what to do when there. Thanks so much!

You have got everything covered both for a solo and family trip to Thailand. ?

This post is very well written and is all you need to have if you wanted to pick up and go to Thailand, tomorrow! Great information!

Thanks so much! I am glad you found it helpful Jacque.

You have really broke everything down. This blog isn’t super informative:)

You have really broke everything down. This blog isn’t super informative:)

I have always wanted to visit Thailand. I’m not sure I could do the backpacking thing though.

Wow you have covered almost everything. I am planning to visit Thailand this year and this post will be super helpful.

This is such a comprehensive guide to Thailand. We went there in 2017 and had an amazing time. We went to one of the Islands, Ko Samai, I believe.

These are very good tips for those who want to travel on a budget and do it safely. I enjoyed all the different price points you shared.

Elizabeth O

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *