About a decade ago, asking “Is Thailand Cheap To Travel To?” would have been almost laughable. Thailand was undeniably a budget-friendly destination. However, as Thailand’s popularity has exploded, so have its prices. While it’s still more affordable than much of Europe or North America, it’s not quite as cheap as some of its Southeast Asian neighbors like Cambodia or Myanmar.
So, how cheap is Thailand in 2024? This guide breaks down the costs, debunks some myths, and helps you determine if Thailand fits your budget.
Debunking the “Thailand is Super Cheap” Myth
The idea that Thailand is incredibly cheap is partly due to outdated information. Many people who talk about how cheap Thailand is haven’t visited in years or haven’t traveled extensively in Southeast Asia. While some aspects are still budget-friendly, it’s important to have realistic expectations.
Relatively speaking, Thailand can be cheap, especially if you’re coming from a Western country. For example, five-star hotels in Bangkok are generally more affordable than in many other major cities (perhaps with the exception of Kuala Lumpur). However, don’t rely on old information when planning your trip; prices have risen.
Breaking Down Travel Costs in Thailand
To answer “is Thailand cheap to travel to?”, let’s examine specific expenses:
Hotels
Luxurious resort pool in Krabi, Thailand, with clear blue water and lush greenery
Thailand offers excellent value for hotels. From luxurious Bangkok hotels like the So Sofitel Bangkok and Eastin Grand Sathorn to stunning Krabi resorts like Sunrise Tropical Resort and the Rayavadee, you often get more for your money than you would elsewhere. Budget travelers can also find guesthouses and Airbnb apartments for under $20 per night. Hostels are even cheaper! When comparing prices, the value of accommodation is definitely leaning towards the “is Thailand cheap to travel to?” argument.
Transportation
Busy street scene in Bangkok's Chinatown with vendors and traffic
Transportation costs can contribute to a cheap Thailand trip. Bangkok’s BTS and MRT, ride-hailing apps like Grab, and low-cost airlines like Thai AirAsia and Thai Smile make getting around relatively affordable. However, be aware of taxi monopolies in places like Koh Samui and parts of Phuket, where prices can be higher. Tuk-tuk rides, while fun, are often overpriced. So, while generally affordable, transportation costs require some savvy navigation.
Food and Drink
A steaming bowl of Khao Soi, a Northern Thai noodle curry dish, garnished with crispy noodles and lime
Is Thailand cheap for food? Absolutely, especially if you stick to Thai cuisine. Street food is incredibly affordable; you can find delicious dishes like khaaw man gai (chicken rice) and pad ga prow gai (fried chicken with holy basil) for around 30-40 THB per plate. “Nice” Thai restaurants are also reasonably priced. However, imported food, especially non-Asian cuisine, can be expensive. Seafood, especially near resorts, can also be pricey. Alcohol, particularly cocktails, can also add up.
Activities
Elephants enjoying a mud bath at an ethical sanctuary in Chiang Mai
Some activities in Thailand are more expensive than others. Ethical elephant sanctuaries, like Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai, can cost around $100 for a half-day excursion, but the price reflects their ethical practices. Scuba diving, while not the cheapest activity locally, is still relatively affordable compared to many other countries. The ethical and environmental impact on the price means that some activities can influence whether you consider “is Thailand cheap to travel to?”
Hidden Costs and Fees
A variety of colorful Thai street food dishes displayed on a vendor's stall
Be aware of hidden costs. Most Thai ATMs charge a 220 THB fee per transaction. Many businesses add a 2-3% fee for credit card payments. You may also encounter the “farang price” (higher prices for foreigners), so hone your bargaining skills before visiting markets like Chatuchak in Bangkok.
The Value of the Thai Baht
The value of the Thai Baht influences how cheap Thailand feels. Over the years, it has fluctuated significantly against the US dollar. To avoid surprises, estimate conservatively, thinking of 20 Baht as slightly less than $1, 100 Baht as $3, and 3,000 THB as $100. This helps manage expectations regardless of current exchange rates.
Is Thailand a Good Value Destination?
Regardless of whether you consider Thailand cheap, its value proposition is undeniable. Excellent hotels, delicious street food, and rooftop dining experiences offer great value. Transportation costs are more variable. Compared to neighbors like Cambodia and Vietnam, Thailand offers a more modern and sophisticated travel experience, with fewer hassles like scams and food-borne illness.
FAQ: Budgeting Your Thailand Trip
How much money do you need per day in Thailand?
If you’re a budget traveler willing to stay in hostels, you could potentially get by on $25 (900 Baht) per day. However, most travelers will need at least $50-$100 per day for a comfortable trip.
How much does a meal cost in Thailand?
Street food can cost as little as 30 Baht (around $1) per plate.
How much does it cost to vacation in Thailand?
A two-week trip to Thailand for two people can cost under $3,000 (excluding flights) if you are strategic about your spending.
The Bottom Line
So, is Thailand cheap to travel to in 2024? While it might not be as incredibly cheap as it once was, it’s still possible to travel comfortably on a budget of around $50 per person per day. Thailand remains a high-value destination compared to Europe or North America. While it’s more expensive than some neighboring countries, the quality of services and amenities is generally higher.
