With Thailand reopening its doors to the world, more and more tourists have been flying out to experience the wonders, culture, and history of the popular Southeast Asian destination over the past few months. Island hopping tours to Phi Phi Island and Bangkok Floating Market excursions can finally be experienced once again by travelers visiting. We’re practically bursting with joy to be able to make our way around the famous Thai food scene and eat our favorite dishes again.
With all the excitement and planning, making a set budget for the trip kinda sounds like a downer. Well, it doesn’t have to be! That’s no problem with our Thailand travel guide on making the most of your trip without breaking the bank. We’ve rounded up a couple of tips and tricks that could help you stay on the right track when it comes to the M-O-N-E-Y situation if you’re traveling to Thailand on a budget!
Tips for Traveling to Thailand on a Budget
1. Fill up your bellies with the wonders of Thai street food
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When in Thailand, eat like the Thai, am I right? Right! The answer to the best way to taste the mouthwatering flavors of authentic Thai cuisine without having to spend too much baht is the streets. Thailand’s iconic street food is an experience of its own. There’s no doubt you’ll always be able to try something new with all the food stalls, pop-up cafes, and local markets you can stop by for a taste. My oh my will you be able to eat a lot with the affordable prices of favorites like Pad Thai, Satay, Papaya Salad, and more. To our International Influencers, these street food must-eats and freshly cooked dishes make for quality content for the feed, so don’t hesitate to snap away!
If you’re in Bangkok, they say that only the best food survives in Yaowarat, and they are not wrong! Yaowarat or Chinatown is famously known as one of the must-eat locations in the city for its endless options of places to dine at. We recommend checking out Pa Tong Go Savoey for delicious Pa Tong Go or crispy golden doughnuts. Those in Phuket can head over to the Phuket Weekend Market for a blend of local favorites like fishcakes, to the more exotic delicacies like deep-fried insects!
2. Shop til you drop at local markets
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Let’s be honest, everyone is a sucker for great deals. Us included! The best place to shop at if you’re in Thailand on a budget? The local markets of course. When we tell you that you have endless options, we’re not kidding! One of the most popular markets to visit in Thailand, the Chatuchak Market, is considered the world’s largest weekend market with over 15,000 stalls across 35 acres and 26 sections! It may even take you more than two days to fully make your way around the entire place.
If you don’t want to deal with the big crowds or get too overwhelmed with the options you can pop by the Pak Khlong Talat in Bangkok or the Krabi Night Market in Krabi for a good feel of the lively local culture and bargain shopping experience. We suggest having loose change in your pockets if you’re scheduled to visit the markets in the morning so you can shop easily and sellers won’t have problems giving you change.
Klook Tip: Bargaining is fine when shopping, but just make sure it isn’t too low because it can be considered offensive. Try negotiating at about 50% and haggle from there. If it’s still too high you can always price check at other shops in the area.
3. Take public transportation, like buses, taxis, and trains, when in the city
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Riding a tuk-tuk or a motorized rickshaw is a popular travel experience when in Thailand, BUT it boasts a pricey cost if you choose it as your main mode of transportation. Tuk-tuks are an easy way for tourists to be charged with hiked or inflated prices. Once makes a memorable time, but more than enough may hurt the pocket.
There are so many other modes of transportation you can use, from public buses, trains, taxis, ride-sharing apps like Grab, and even a good ‘ol walk to locations where popular landmarks stand side by side. If you’ve got a bit of an adventurous side to you, read further down our list for an exciting transportation suggestion you may want to consider during your visit!
Klook Tip: When taking a taxi, it’s not recommended to bargain a flat rate with the taxi driver. You’ll most likely get an inflated price if you do. Instead, insist on following the taxi meter because it’s illegal for taxi drivers to refuse it!
4. Visit smaller monasteries or temples that offer free admission
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While visits to iconic temples like Wat Pho in Bangkok or White Temple in Chiang Rai are a must if it’s your first time traveling to Thailand, some popular monasteries and temples may charge a pricey admission fee for visitors. However, you’re in luck, because the country is home to so many temples where you can experience the rich religious heritage of the country.
Smaller monasteries and temples even offer free admission and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the religious culture, away from the busy tourist crowds. Off the top of our head, temples with free admission you can check out are the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi or the Blue Temple if you’re in Chiang Rai (open daily, from 7:00 to 20:00!).
Klook Tip: Don’t know which temple to visit? It’s time to socialize! Why not try asking friendly locals for their recommendations on what nearby temple or wat you should visit in the area.
5. Convenience stores are your best friend, especially for alcohol!
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If you’re looking to satisfy the small cravings or thirst as you tour the city, convenience stores are your go-to. From snacks to soft drinks to travel essentials, convenience stores like 7-Eleven always offer a wide range of products at reasonable prices. They’ve even got a pretty good selection of sandwiches, like ham and cheese croissants, rice burgers, and sweet buns, you can check out if you don’t want to spend too much for breakfast.
The real shining moment of convenience stores, the affordable beer and alcohol prices for our party people! For our Merry Makers or Solo Escapists looking to experience Thailand’s thrilling nightlife, a word of advice, the alcohol at bars and clubs can cost up to three times as much as convenience stores. If you’re hesitant in spending big money at the bar for drinks, you can always consider getting your drinks at the convenience store. We recommend buying local beer brands like Singha or Chang because imported beers tend to be priced higher.
6. Rent a bike to easily get around the city
Adrenaline Chasers or cyclists traveling to Thailand on a budget are most definitely bubbling with excitement with our mention of exploring the city on 2-wheels – and rightfully so! Thailand is considered one of the recommended destinations for cyclists, especially with all the considerate bike lanes installed on their roads.
Instead of bringing your trusty mountain bike with you (think of the airline baggage costs, no thank you!), consider renting out a bike as your main transportation in the city. Some even suggest it’s the best way to get around! Not only do you get from location to location quicker, but your wallet will also breathe a sigh of relief. Bike rentals can range from THB 50 per hour to THB 300 per day.
Klook Tip: If you’re planning a day of cycling around Thailand’s landmarks consider exploring the routes of Bang Krachao, known as the green lung and hidden oasis of Bangkok. More experienced cyclists can test their endurance at the challenging routes of Chiang Mai, like the Samoeng Loop with a whopping 100km round trip distance!
7. Pack or wear the right clothes when visiting temples
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Okay, you may be wondering why this tip is even on our list. How is packing or wearing the right clothes related to staying on budget? Hear us out! One of the most popular experiences, when you travel to Thailand, is visiting the country’s numerous historical temples. The most important rule when you visit: wear the appropriate attire.
Aside from it being respectful to their culture, temples also enforce a strict dress code policy for those who want to visit. Inappropriate outfit, no entry! Some places like the Grand Palace may even have you buying or renting out clothes on site if your outfit doesn’t make the cut. To avoid any issues (and any unnecessary depletion of funds, yikes!), make sure you dress appropriately if you’re heading out to visit temples.
Klook Tip: Unsure of what the right dress code is? Just remember that you need to cover up – this goes for both men and women! Make sure to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and you’ll be okay.
8. Spend a day checking out admission-free historical and cultural attractions
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Thailand is a country filled with vibrant and rich culture and history, and the best thing about it is you can still immerse yourself and experience the beauty of their heritage both in paid and free experiences. Yes, you read that right, not all historical and cultural landmarks in the city require admission! We have to admit, we spent hours looking at the contemporary and modern art exhibits hosted at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.
To our Scenic Enthusiasts, we haven’t forgotten you! We highly suggest making time for a relaxing day with the green landscapes of Lumphini Park in Central Bangkok and the city skyline in the backdrop at sunset would make quite a picture-perfect memory. On some occasions, the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra even holds free concerts at the park, which we hope coincides with your dates!
9. Experience Thai culture with the variety of paid and admission-free entertainment and cultural shows
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After making your way through all the Thailand island hopping tours or visiting the famed historical landmarks, your pocket money may be asking for a little breather. Enter the lively entertainment scene Thailand has to offer! From live music, traditional puppet dancing, to epic sports shows, you can experience Thai culture with a variety of bang for buck or admission-free shows in the city.
Sports fans or those looking for some adrenaline-pumping action in Bangkok may want to catch one of MBK Fight Night’s free Muay Thai matches, hosted on the last Wednesday of the month. Culture Vultures, if you already have a ticket to Erawan Shrine (costing around THB 100), you’re in for a treat with the free cultural experience of a traditional Thai dance show during your visit.
10. Exchange your pocket money to the local currency in advance!
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To our fellow Detail Commanders, you’ve got to note this down: when traveling, it’s always best to have the currency of your destination beforehand. Not only will it be easier for you to get around and pay for things, but you can actually avoid the additional fee your bank charges you when you need to withdraw from a local ATM!
If you aren’t able to exchange your money before you travel to Thailand, have no fear because there are money exchange shops around the city that can accommodate you. We suggest exchanging a small portion of your pocket money at the airport just so you can make it into the city, then find a money exchange shop in the city to change the rest. Money exchange shops in the city tend to have better rates than those in the airport.
Your travel to Thailand means you do you!
Now this handy Thailand travel guide may help you stay within or below your trip budget, remember at the end of the day your happiness is the goal of your well-deserved vacation! If a luxurious spa day (looking at you Wellness Seekers!) or a tour of Thailand’s famous landmarks call out to you, don’t be afraid to answer it! All you need to remember is to balance having a good time and spending wisely for a worthwhile Thailand trip experience.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you're leaving Thailand or flying domestic from Bangkok and your airline requires a pre-departure COVID-19 test, we recommend that you book a COVID-19 Pre-departure ATK or RT-PCR Test by TCR Medical Lab Clinic for same-day results!
Need transfers? Hop on the Klook Bus!
If you're thinking of traveling from Bangkok to Pattaya or vice versa, then our Klook Bus City Transfer is your best bet! Enjoy a comfortable ride with the cleanest seats, a professional driver, and spacious storage for your bags. Just choose your preferred pick-up time then head on to the pick-up location. Once aboard, sit back and relax until you've reached your destination!
