A decade ago, the answer to “Is Thailand Cheap To Travel?” would have been a resounding yes. Thailand was undoubtedly a budget-friendly destination. However, its rising popularity has led to increased costs, alongside improvements in services and amenities.
While Thailand remains more affordable than Europe or North America, it’s not as inexpensive as neighboring countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, or Vietnam. If you’re wondering about the cost of a trip to Thailand, this guide breaks down expenses and helps you determine if it fits your budget.
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The Reality of Thailand’s Affordability
The perception of Thailand as a super-cheap destination is partly outdated. Many who reminisce about Thailand’s affordability haven’t visited in years, or they haven’t explored other Southeast Asian countries that offer even lower prices.
Is Thailand cheap? Relatively speaking, yes, especially for travelers from Western countries. While some things remain a bargain (like five-star hotels in Bangkok being cheaper than in many global cities, perhaps rivaled only by Kuala Lumpur), it’s important to have realistic expectations.
Understanding the Costs: Breaking It Down
Hotels
Krabi beach and longtail boats
Thailand offers excellent value for hotels. From luxurious Bangkok hotels like So Sofitel Bangkok and Eastin Grand Sathorn, to stunning beach resorts in Krabi like Sunrise Tropical Resort and the exclusive Rayavadee, you get great value for your money. Budget hotels and Airbnb apartments can be found for under $20 per night, and hostels are incredibly affordable.
Transportation
Bangkok Chinatown street scene
Transportation also contributes to whether your Thailand trip is cheap. Getting around Thailand is generally affordable, whether you use the BTS or MRT in Bangkok, Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber), or budget airlines like Thai AirAsia and Thai Smile. However, transportation can be more expensive in areas with taxi monopolies, such as Koh Samui or parts of Phuket. Tuk-tuk rides can also be overpriced due to their novelty.
Food and Drink
Bowl of Khao Soi, a Northern Thai noodle curry soup
Is Thailand cheap for food? Absolutely, especially if you stick to Thai cuisine. When living in Bangkok, it was easy to find delicious street food like khaaw man gai (chicken rice) and pad ga prow gai (fried chicken with holy basil) for around 30-40 THB. Even “nice” Thai restaurants are reasonably priced. However, foreign food (especially non-Asian) is comparatively expensive. Seafood can also be pricey, particularly near resorts in Phuket, Krabi, or the Trat islands. Alcohol, especially cocktails, can also be costly, with prices often exceeding 400 Baht.
Activities
Elephants at an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai
Some activities in Thailand can impact your budget. For instance, a visit to Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai (or similar ethical sanctuaries near Chiang Rai) can cost around $100 for a half-day excursion, as a portion of the fee supports ethical practices. However, many activities offer good value when compared to prices in other countries. Scuba diving, for example, is relatively affordable by international standards.
Other Expenses
Variety of Thai street food in Bangkok
Hidden costs can affect your budget. Most Thai ATMs charge around 220 THB ($7-8) per transaction. Additionally, businesses may add a 2-3% fee for credit card payments. Be prepared to bargain to avoid the “farang (foreigner) price” at markets like Bangkok’s Chatuchak Weekend Market.
The Thai Baht: A Key Factor
The value of the Thai baht influences the overall cost of your trip. Over the years, its value has fluctuated, impacting prices. A simple way to estimate costs is to consider 20 baht as slightly less than a dollar, 100 baht as $3, and 3,000 THB as $100. Assuming a value of 30-33 baht per US dollar can help avoid surprises.
Is Thailand a Good Value Destination?
Regardless of whether Thailand is considered “cheap,” its value is undeniable. Excellent hotels, delicious street food, and rooftop dining offer great experiences for the price. While local transportation costs like Bangkok’s BTS and MRT may seem high to locals, and domestic flights aren’t significantly cheaper than in other regions, the overall value remains high.
Even though Cambodia and Vietnam may be technically cheaper, Thailand offers a more modern and sophisticated travel experience with fewer hassles.
FAQs About Travel Costs in Thailand
How much money do you need per day in Thailand?
If you’re comfortable staying in budget accommodations, you could potentially manage on $25 (around 900 Baht) per day or less. However, most travelers will need at least double that. A budget of $100 per person per day ensures a comfortable trip to Thailand.
How much does a meal cost in Thailand?
Thailand remains affordable when it comes to food, especially street food. Many classic Thai dishes, like Pad Thai and Khaaw Man Gai, can be enjoyed for $1 or less, even in Bangkok.
How much does it cost to vacation in Thailand?
While not as cheap as Vietnam, Thailand vacations still offer good value. A two-week trip to Thailand can cost under $3,000 for two people, excluding flights. Strategic planning can help keep costs down.
The Bottom Line
So, is Thailand cheap to travel? While the answer depends on your definition of “cheap,” expect to spend at least $50 per person per day for a comfortable trip. Despite the increased costs, Thailand remains a high-value destination compared to Europe and North America. While neighboring countries may be cheaper, Thailand offers higher quality services and amenities.
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