Is Thailand expensive? Our budget travel guide

The great news if you’re thinking of travelling to Thailand is that it’s not expensive.

This budget guide explores getting around cheaply, Thailand flight costs and accommodation prices, and how to savour Thai food without draining your wallet. Get ready for a Thai adventure that won’t break the bank.

The cost of transport in Thailand

So, is Thailand expensive for transport? Fortunately, not. Options for getting about in Thailand include buses, trains, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis. Over long distances you can also consider internal flights and car hire.

Buses

Buses are popular and affordable in Thailand. Local city buses are cheapest, typically costing 10 baht per trip.

Trains

Thailand has an extensive railway network connecting major towns and tourist destinations. Costs start from 30p to 60p for short journeys. More comfortable express and sleeper trains range from £5 up to £35 one-way, depending on distance and class.

Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks are an iconic form of Thai transport. These three-wheeled motorised rickshaws are found in urban areas and tourist hotspots and are an easy, fun way to explore. Always establish the fare upfront as price can vary.

Motorbike taxis

Motorbike taxis are a common sight in Thailand, especially in busy urban areas. Costs are similar to a tuk-tuk, but for single passengers only. Always ask the driver for a helmet.

Car hire

Car hire can be a cost-effective option if you are exploring with others. Prices start from around £20 per day, plus fuel and insurance.

Get an idea of Thai exchange rates before you travel.

The cost of flights to Thailand

While Bangkok International is the main hub for flights from the UK, you may find cheap indirect flights to other airports, including:

• Phuket
• Krabi
• Chiang Mai
• Khon Kaen
• Koh Samui

Some package holidays to Thailand include direct charter flights. Most depart from London airports.

Generally, the cheapest months to fly are October, January and May (as of December 2023, according to Skyscanner)

The cost of accommodation in Thailand

Thailand is not expensive for many types of accommodation:

Hostels

Popular with budget travellers, in hostels you typically share dormitory rooms (around £5 per night) or have a private room with shared facilities £50+ (as of December 2023, according to Hostelsworld.com).

Airbnb

A quick online search will highlight a wealth of room-only options from private owners. Prices vary but you can expect to pay anywhere from £30 - £100+ depending on the comfort you are looking for (as of December 2023, according to Airbnb).

Budget Hotels

Budget hotels in Thailand also provide affordable options on private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Prices range from around £12 to £30 per night, depending on the location and hotel quality (as of December 2023, according to Kayak).

Mid-range Hotels

Mid-range hotels will usually provide well-appointed rooms, restaurants, and swimming pools. Expect to pay £30 to £80 per night, depending on location, season, and hotel rating (as of December 2023, according to Kayak).

Luxury hotels and resorts

There are many high-end resorts in Phuket and Koh Samui. Some budget travellers choose to splash out for a night of luxury; you may find rooms for around £500 (as of December 2023, according to Kayak).

The cost of eating out in Thailand

Most of us are no strangers to Thai food, with many UK restaurants serving green curry, pad thai, and other tasty dishes.

But the real deal is even better - options are plentiful and Thailand food prices are budget friendly.

Thailand food prices

There are lots of ways to keep your food spending down in Thailand...

Street food

Street food is a quintessential part of Thai culture, with food stalls throughout Thailand, especially in markets and on busy roads. Prices range from 60p to £2 per dish.

Try Pad Thai, Som Tam (papaya salad), Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), and many types of noodles and curries.

Local food courts

In shopping centers and markets you'll often find food courts offering both Thai and international food at as little as 50p to £2 per dish.

Simple local restaurants

Simple, family run restaurants serve authentic Thai dishes at good prices. You will pay around £1.50 to £3 per dish.

Tipping in Thailand

Tipping in Thailand is not as prevalent as in some Western countries, and while it’s certainly not expected, it’s appreciated.

Tipping is a thank you for good service. You might round up the cost of a taxi ride or food bill and invite your server to keep the change.

Alcohol prices in Thailand

Prices for alcoholic drinks can vary depending on where you are and what you order.

Beer prices in Thailand

Beer is the go-to drink in Thailand, with various local brews. In Bangkok, a local beer price in Thailand (try Singha, Chang, or Leo) ranges from £1 to £2. Imported beers may be slightly more.

Wine

Wine prices in Thailand vary depending on the brand and quality of the wine. Typical prices are around £5 to £6 but this will be higher in restaurants.

Cocktails

Cocktail prices again vary by location and spirits.

The best budget-friendly Thailand tourist attractions

In Thailand, even the most famous sights and experiences are reasonably priced. Some of the top attractions include:

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Bangkok)

The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are iconic landmarks in Bangkok.

Wat Arun (Bangkok)

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is another significant temple in Bangkok. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the historical park is free, but some ruins and temples may have a cost.

Sukhothai Historical Park

Another UNESCO World Heritage site known for well-preserved ruins.

Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai's Old City is surrounded by a moat and historic walls. Exploring its temples is usually free or requires a small donation.

Elephant Nature Park (Chiang Mai)

In this elephant sanctuary visitors can observe and interact with rescued elephants.

Railay Beach (Krabi)

A stunning destination known for its limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

Phi Phi Islands (Krabi)

The Islands, including Maya Bay, were made famous by the film "The Beach". Island-hopping tours and snorkelling trips are popular.

Floating markets

Thailand's floating markets, such as Damnoen Saduak in Bangkok or Amphawa in Samut Songkhram, are loved by tourists. Exploring the markets is usually free.

Travel safer with our Travelex Money Card

Experience added peace of mind with the Travelex Money Card - an optimal alternative to carrying your debit card. Unlike your debit card, our Travelex Money Card is not linked to your bank account, minimising your risk of losing all your funds in case of loss or theft. Load your card with Great British pounds, and withdraw Thai baht from ATMs or make secure, contactless payments directly at the point of sale.

Please note that a 2% fee applies to GBP loads, and a 5.75% fee is incurred when using the card in Thailand where the local currency isn't offered on our Travelex Money Card. This fee also extends to cash withdrawals for Thai baht and other currencies that are not offered on our Travelex Money Card. While Travelex does not impose charges to ATM withdrawals, it's important to note that fees from other ATM providers may apply. Find out more on our fees here.

Use the Travelex Money App to keep track of your spending and top up the balance as needed. It’s a secure way to travel, simply freeze or cancel the card if lost or stolen. T&Cs apply.

Ready to plan your trip? Read our complete Thailand travel guide to decide what to see. For more details about Thai baht, see our Thailand currency guide.