Thailand is one of the top destinations for budget travelers, and it’s easy to see why. The country offers beautiful beaches, bustling cities, rich history, and incredible food—all for very low prices compared to other countries. You can experience everything the country has to offer without needing a fortune. Here’s a guide to help you travel to Thailand on a budget, and maximize your trip without sacrificing quality.
1. Saving Money on Accommodation
Accommodation in Thailand is affordable, even if you’re tight on cash. You can find budget-friendly options all over the country, and these don’t have to mean sacrificing comfort.
Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses
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If you’re fine with sharing a room, dorm beds typically cost between 200-450 THB per night. Some offer private rooms for a little more. Plus, hostels are an awesome way to meet fellow travelers.
Guesthouses are also a great choice. These family-run, small hotels are very common across Thailand. Prices usually range between 300-700 THB for basic but clean and welcoming accommodation.
Look for Cheap Hotels
If hostels or guesthouses aren’t your type, budget hotels are still quite cheap. In cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, basic hotels can start as low as 700-1000 THB per night.
Use Airbnb or Agoda
Consider using Airbnb or Agoda for unique stays. You can find budget-friendly apartments or even rent a whole bungalow in some parts of Thailand from anywhere between 500-1500 THB per night.
Take Advantage of Long-Term Discounts
If you plan to stay in one place for more than a week, try negotiating a better rate with the guesthouse or hotel. Many places offer discounts for long stays.
2. How to Save on Food
Thailand is street-food heaven. It’s super easy to eat well on the cheap here, and you don’t have to settle for unhealthy fast food either. Thai food is fresh, delicious, and inexpensive.
Stick to Street Food Stalls
Street vendors sell some of the best-tasting food in Thailand. You can find noodles, curries, soups, stir-fries, and fresh fruit for as low as 30-60 THB per meal. Make sure to try dishes like pad thai, som tam (papaya salad), and khao pad (fried rice).
Eat at Local Restaurants
Local “mom-and-pop” restaurants offer meals for around 60-120 THB. These places tend to be a little more relaxed than street stalls and offer a wider variety of options, including vegetarian and seafood dishes.
Avoid Tourist Areas
Restaurants in touristy areas can be overpriced. Walk a little further from the main attractions, and you’ll find great food at half the price. This is especially true in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya.
Cook Your Own Meals
If you’re staying at an Airbnb or hostel with a kitchen, consider cooking at least one meal a day. Local markets sell fresh fruits and vegetables for cheap, and groceries are very affordable.
3. Saving on Transportation
Thailand’s transport options are cheap and give you plenty of choices, whether you travel by bus, train, plane, or tuk-tuk.
Use Public Transportation
In Bangkok, use the BTS (Skytrain) or MRT (subway). They cost between 16-52 THB per ride depending on the distance. You can also use public buses to get around for as little as 10 THB per ride.
Take Sleeper Buses or Trains
One of the easiest ways to save on transportation is taking overnight buses or trains. You’ll save on a night’s accommodation and can cover long distances while you sleep. Tickets usually range from 500-1000 THB depending on the distance.
Fly Budget Airlines
Thailand is well connected by budget airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air. Domestic flights can cost as little as 600-1000 THB if booked in advance.
Take the Local Minibuses (Songthaews)
In smaller cities and islands, you can get around by local minibuses called songthaews for between 20-60 THB. They offer a cheap way to navigate locally while interacting with locals.
Alternatively, you can rent a motorbike for roughly 150-300 THB per day. Just make sure you know how to ride safely.
4. Cheap and Free Attractions
Visit Temples
Thailand has thousands of temples that are either cheap to visit or completely free. Wat Pho in Bangkok has a small entrance fee of 200 THB, but many smaller temples across the country are free to enter.
Explore National Parks
National parks in Thailand usually charge a small fee of around 100-300 THB. Some of the cheaper (and amazing) options include visiting Doi Suthep-Pui National Park near Chiang Mai or Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand.
Relax on the Beaches
Beaches are plentiful in Thailand, and many are free to access. Some of the best budget-friendly beaches are on Koh Samet, Koh Chang, and in Krabi. You can spend days lounging, swimming, and enjoying the sun without paying anything except for maybe a beach bed rental, which costs around 50-100 THB per day.
Explore Markets
Wander through Thailand’s bustling markets, which are fun to explore even if you’re not buying anything. Check out the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai, or local night markets in any small town. Walking around is free, and there’s no obligation to buy.
Enjoy Free Cultural Events
Many towns and cities in Thailand have free cultural events like parades, festivals, and traditional dances, especially around holidays like Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong. Check local listings or ask around to see what’s happening when you arrive.
5. Budget-Friendly Destinations in Thailand
While Thailand as a whole is budget-friendly, some places are extra kind to your wallet without feeling like you’re missing out. Here are a few affordable spots to consider:
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is cheaper than Bangkok and much less hectic. Accommodation, food, and activities are all more affordable here. The city also offers tons of free things to do, from hiking Doi Suthep to attending local festivals.
Pai
Located a few hours north of Chiang Mai, Pai is a laid-back town known for its scenic views and chill vibes. Accommodation and food are very cheap here, and you can spend your time exploring waterfalls or just relaxing by the riverside.
Krabi
Krabi is a great alternative to the more touristy Phuket. It offers beautiful beaches and islands, but prices are far lower. Tons of cheap hostels and street food keep costs down while letting you enjoy the beautiful Andaman Sea.
Isaan (Northeast Thailand)
If you want to escape the typical tourist path, head to Isaan. This region is the least visited part of Thailand, and you’ll find prices here are incredibly low. Local food, accommodation, and transportation are cheap, and it’s an authentic way to experience the country’s rural side.
Conclusion
It’s completely possible to travel to Thailand on a budget without sacrificing the experience. Stick to street food, take public transportation, and explore free or low-cost attractions to get the most out of your money. Thailand’s affordability makes it one of the best places in Southeast Asia for budget-conscious travelers. Just plan wisely, and you’re all set for an amazing trip!
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