The Most Popular Thailand Travel Questions People Have

In this article we look at common Thailand travel questions. We all have questions and anxiety when traveling to new country for the first time. What if I get sick, or lose my passport? Can I afford it? We will answers to those questions from our own experiences from dozens of trips.

Resources

Agoda is the best place to book cheap affordable hotels in Thailand, especially near national parks. They also book flights as well.

Expedia is my favorite place to book flights, hotels, cars, and more. Their group includes Hotels.com and Vrbo for vacation rentals.

Viator is the top choice for activities. Book everything from a waterfall tour to scuba diving, jungle trekking to cooking classes. Do the Chiang Mai Golf Challenge from Viator.

12Go is the top transportation source for Asia. From busses to trains to regional flights.

This page contains links to affiliate partner websites. We receive an affiliate commission for any purchase made by you on the affiliate website using such links, at no cost to you. Help keep our free content alive. Thank You.

Should I bring Money?

One of the first things we think about when traveling to a different country would be money. How much cash do I need to bring? This is for sure one of the first Thailand travel questions. What is the exchange rate? How can I get more cash? Can I use my credit cards? What about contactless payments?

Cash

When I first started visiting Thailand in 2010, I mainly used cash. However now, times have changed as have technology, so this is not the case anymore. I also made the rookie mistake of getting Thai Baht at a major US bank before I went. Never do this! Because they are ripping you off. They will charge you fees and give you a horrible exchange rate.

Resist exchanging money at the airports. It’s not much better than your home bank. Only exception would be a small amount to pay for a taxi or something small.

In Thailand cities, banks and money exchange places will get you pretty great rates. If you are staying around the old city in Chiang Mai, they are all over the place so you can check a few for the best rate. Bring new $100 bills, they like them. In fact some locations will not take older bills.

How much cash to bring depends on your lifestyle and how long you will be there, but I can tell you that you really don’t need much. See next topic.

Wise is the best way to transfer money and get the best exchange rates. The Wise Card is an International Debit Card. Spend abroad with the real exchange rate. No markups, no sneaky transaction fees.

Cards

Should I use a credit card overseas is another one of the top travel questions.

ATM’s and Credit Cards, no problem in Thailand. However you will be hit with fee in Thailand (about 200 baht) when you use an ATM. Check your home banks International fees and policies.

I find credit cards a much better option these days, as long as you feel safe about it. I wouldn’t use it at small businesses, but for some larger costs like at a supermarket, tours, etc. it’s a better option. Important: Check your credit card to make sure there are no foreign transaction fees. Most all travel cards will not have any fees.

Contactless Payments are becoming more available in Thailand. Mostly in larger businesses in the Cities. Google Pay/Wallet is available, as long as the merchant has the capability. I am told Apple Pay can be used, but it is not called Apple Pay. The merchant has to be able to accept it, and some of the major grocery stores and 7-11’s can. But don’t rely on it.

Is it expensive?

Usually number one of travel questions when considering a trip has to be what the cost is. Is it expensive? The simple answer when it come to Thailand is No, it is not expensive. But for all there is to see and do, the fantastic people and culture, it’s a destination where you can get the most out of your money.

Your plane ticket will be your costliest part, by far. Hotels are relatively inexpensive, food is cheap, and many of the best sights to see are free or only a small fee. Viator off great deals of tours and activities.

Like anywhere, the time of year has a lot to do with it. Peak season is November and December into January. This is when the weather is best, plus people are on holidays. So if you don’t mind the rainy season, May-October would be considered ‘off season’.

For more on the costs see our article: The Ultimate Guide to Chiang Mai. Who wouldn’t want to stay at a resort hotel like this for around $70/night?

What if I get Sick? Medical Care

Thailand has great medical care. First rate hospitals that I have had the pleasure of attending! Pharmacies are as abundant as 7-11’s, meaning they are everywhere.

Unlike the US, Thai Pharmacies can give you many common medications you would need a prescription for in the US. Such as antibiotics, blood pressure medicine, muscle relaxers, etc. They are cheap (100-200 baht), and name brands you know. Go pick up some Viagra if you want.

If you do have to go to the doctor, most likely you would go to the hospital. In major cities, including Chiang Mai, the hospitals actually a wing for tourists.

Do not travel internationally without Travel Insurance. Unfortunately bad things can happen at any time, and for less than $2.00 a day, why not be covered. Everyone with travel questions always ask if they need insurance. We say you do.

Not only does travel insurance cover medical, it also includes travel coverage including travel delay, lost checked luggage, emergency response, and more. We have put together more information in the following article. Why do I need travel insurance?

A few great options are:

How Is The Internet and Phone Connection?

These days this is a pretty simple question to answer. That is because Thailand has become as upgraded as any country in the world. Anywhere near cities you will be able to get great internet and phone connections. We live out in the countryside of Chom Thong, and our home wi-fi is faster than in California.

There are several options for phone and internet connections when traveling to Thailand.

1. Check your home phone company. US companies are better than they used to be for pricing. We have T-Moible when in the US. Our plan offers free data roaming and text while in Thailand. It’s not high speed (only 2G), but actually works decently as long as your not streaming video.
2. Wi-Fi is everywhere in Thailand. Any coffee shop, hotel, etc, will have free wi-fi. This is usually the route I go, and it’s usually fast.
3. Buy a prepaid SIM card. These can be bought everywhere, and very inexpensive. It will be hard not to pass a shop that doesn’t sell them, or at the airport. 7-11 is a popular place tourist can buy them. ESIMTHAILAND offers mobile data plans that are lowest cost but at the same time equipped with fastest speed in the world.
4. Use A VPN (Virtual Private Network). If your not familiar with what a VPN is. It is a service that protects your internet connection and privacy online.

As a bonus, if you connect to a VPN, you will connect to a network back in your home county for example. This will allow you to stream services such as Netflix and whatever you have an account for. Great when traveling.

I use NordVPN. It works great for me in Thailand. NordVPN is essential to online life.

• NordVPN gives safe access to streams and other content from around the world.
• By shielding their IP addresses, NordVPN protects users’ privacy and virtual location.
• We secure online traffic through encryption, making it hard to spy on or hijack data.
• Available on all major operating systems, including smart TVs and routers.
• Our Threat Protection feature blocks malware, ads, malicious sites, and trackers.

ESIMTHAILAND offers mobile data plans that are lowest cost but at the same time equipped with fastest speed in the world. Just purchase eSIM Thailand and stay connected everywhere in Thailand during your trip. Now you can design your tour simply and remove plan to order a new physical SIM and visit center to get it. No need to waste money on data roaming charges during your trip.

I forgot something

One of the most common Thailand Travel Questions for new travelers is, what if they forget something? Well, don’t be worried if you forgot something.

Unless you going to some retreat out in the middle of nowhere, you can buy anything in Thailand you can get anywhere else. In some cases easier, such as common medications (see above) at any of the thousands of pharmacies.

If your going to Chiang Mai or any other city, you will find a 7-11 everywhere, and they always have toiletries and other small essentials.

Thailand has a huge retail chain called Lotus. They are similar to a Walmart in the US, and there are over 1,900 of them. Go to the Night Bazzar in Chiang Mai to pick up great inexpensive local items, in an exciting environment. Modern shopping malls are in all large cities.

What About The Language Difference?

English is widely spoken throughout cities in Thailand. This is especially true in the hospitality industry and with the younger generations, where it has become compulsory in school. A recent poll suggests about 45% of the population now speaks English.

However, the further you venture away from a city, the less English is understood. In the village where my wife and I have a house outside of Chom Thong city, almost no one speaks English. It’s great, I don’t have to talk to my in-laws (just kidding)! But as a tourist you should have no problem.

Learning some local Thai phrases is always a good idea before you go. There are some good fun apps for your phone you can use. Just search the app store. There are different Thai dialects in the different regions.

How will we get around?

You will have multiple options in Thailand for getting where you want to go. Cities are full of fun local inexpensive public options.

1. Tuk Tuk’s $$ have to be on top of the list for fun local transportation. Easy to find on any street, there is always someone to give you a ride. Or your hotel will call one for you. If there is heavy traffic, then it can be most fun, as some are crazy drivers!

1. Songthaew– $ which is a two row truck you hop in the back. You probably will share with other riders. This is the most popular option for locals. Tell them where you want to go and negotiate. Generally if you are just going around town it’s less than 30 baht.

1. Standard Bus – $ is an option most backpackers will use when traveling around the country. Busses will take you from Chiang Mai out to other cities and to National Parks like Doi Inthanon. This will take more planning.
2. Book A Tour – $$ This is one great option for day trips outside the city.
3. Rent a moterbike – $$ Relatively cheap, but you will have to leave a large deposit. Also dangerous, especially if your not used to driving in Thailand traffic, and don’t know where to go. You better have Travel Insurance!
4. Grab – $$ Is similar to Uber, a ride share tech company. It is newer in Thailand, but getting big. It’s an option but if you just visiting would probably not to worth setting up, when there are other cheaper local options.
5. Bikes – $ A great healthy option to see the city close up. Available to rent around town, or most hotels will have a few that guests can use for free.

12GO is a popular source for booking, busses, ferries primarily. Regional flights and other items can also be booked. They work under two websites to book travel. 12GO for Asia, and 12go.co for the test of the world. 12GO works with over 500 transport operators in Asia.

How much luggage can I take? What can I bring back?

Great travel questions both. When flying internationally most all airlines have the same rules for luggage, but always check. Two checked bags of 23KG included in your ticket. As a tourist you would never need or want to take this much.

I love bringing back souvenirs to family and friends back in the states. Best place to get them is at the outdoor markets and walking streets made by locals. Bring back all you want. However some foods could get you in trouble at customs, just ask my wife. Check your countries customs site for lists.

Personal Safety

Thailand is considered safe. Every country in the world has its issues and there are always certain areas to avoid. Personally I have always felt safer in Thailand and living in Malaysia than I do in the United States. Tougher crimes laws make it safer in many aspects than the west.

TIP: Lock your valuables in the safe at your hotel. Don’t carry your passport around with you. Don’t carry all your cash around. You are better off locking up these in the safe.

The U.S. State Department considers Thailand to be a level-1 (exercise normal precautions) country. Chiang Mai is considered safe for tourists. Bangkok is such a large city things happen, and you should be extra careful at night.

• Be taxi-smart- If you act clueless, some people may overcharge you.
• Watch for Scams- Fake tours taking your money. Fake jerelry or gold.
• Police- Unfortunately police still take bribes. I have been in this situation many times, especially for traffic violations. Try not to fall for it. Ask for paperwork, etc.
• Watch what you say- Making a critical or defamatory comment about the royal family can get you up to 15 years in prison per offense. This includes intentionally ripping up Thai bank notes, which carry an image of the king
• Be careful when you travel solo- Being solo can be a target for bad actors, especially at night.

Always get Travel Insurance just in case.

In Chiang Mai it is easy to access the US Consulate (Embassy), in case you need their help. They can also help with your Thailand travel questions.

• Assist you in finding appropriate medical care.
• Help you report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal-justice process.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Grant you an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

What if I lose my Passport?

This is one of great Thailand travel questions. Unfortunately we don’t have as positive news as in the other topics. But it does happen, people lose them, or get robbed. If you are a victim of a crime make sure you file a police report.

You will not be able to return to the United States or most other countries without one. One exception could be if you have dual citizenship should as my wife has.

Contact your local embassy or Consulate in the closest city. In Thailand your only two choices are in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. It’s a hassle, but they will fix it for you. They will usually issue a temporary limited-validity, emergency passport that can be produced more quickly.

You will need to produce some identifying documents in order for them to help you. If you don’t have any you will need someone back home to send them over, delaying the process.

The United States State department website has your detailed answers.

How long can I stay? Do I need a Visa?

Many countries from the west as well as Asia are part of the Visa Exemption Program. Other counties are part of the Visa On Arrival Program. Meaning if you are planning to stay for no more than 30 days, you don’t need to get a Visa ahead of time. They will issue you one at Thai immigration. If you want to stay longer than 30 days you will need to get a Visa extension.

This are changing in 2024. Visit our Visa Information Page for the most updated.

Now that the Thai government has lifted the Covid-19 restrictions it makes the process a lot easier as it was before Covid-19. I would still recommend have a vaccine card with you in case they ask for it.

What Should I Pack For Thailand?

The amount of time you will be in Thailand as well as where your going, will be part of your decision. Thailand is generally warm to hot all year. In the North, it gets cooler from November-January.

We live near the northern mountains and Doi Inthanon. During those months it gets cool, meaning pants at night and maybe a sweater. If you plan to go up in some of the higher mountains such as Doi Inthanon, it can actually get cold in the winter.

Since it’s usually hot, pack light. Also if you are staying in Chiang Mai and want to save money on clothes washing, there are many local shops doing laundry by the Kilo. Just drop off a bag and pick it up later.

**TIP** If you search most travel blogs they will give you a long list of items to take. They may be suggesting you buy them through their site. Yes this is how we make our money. But for this topic I will keep it simple. TAKE THE LEAST AMOUNT OF STUFF YOU CAN PLEASE!

As I said earlier, local shops and great clothing markets are everywhere, so picking items up is no problem. Chiang Mai also has several large indoor malls with all your name brand stores. You can easily buy everything you can in your home country for less. Try to limit it to 1 checked bag and 1 carry-on. Who wants to lug around heavy bags?

What is the Culture like?

One of the reasons people love visiting Thailand is the people and culture. For that matter, that is why there are so many expats there. I married a Thai and live part time there, so I have some insight myself. Thai people are as friendly as their reputation. They do love to smile. They do love to have fun, and not take everything so seriously. This helps make Thailand a fun place to visit.

There are some important cultural differences that tourists should be knowledgeable of.

Be respectful, have self-control, and a non-confrontational attitude. Thai people respect their elders, which is a lost art in the west. They generally are non-confrontational and you will embarrass and shame someone if you hell or are aggressive towards them.

Knowing how to greet and dress well in Thailand will earn you a great deal of respect as a traveler. Don’t shake hands when meeting someone, learn their traditional greeting. This would be to properly learn the traditional Wai. And know that the higher up you place your hands the more respect you are showing, such as with elders. I do this with my mother in law.

Learn basic Thai greetings to go along with the Wai. There are apps for that!

Dress appropriately when entering temple grounds, and especially inside a temple building. Just because it is hot does not mean you can walk into temples with shorts and bare arms, even for women. Most temples have dress codes posted at their entrances, but be prepared before you go.

Try to avoid politics and don’t speak ill of the royal family. The Kingdom of Thailand is under The Royal Thai Government, where the King exercises sovereignty through the branches of government in place, and where his power checked by the Thai constitution.

It’s a great rule of thumb to avoid politics in any country you visit, but in Thailand it is especially important to avoid commenting on The Royal Family. The Royal Family is highly regarded and loved in Thailand, and speaking ill of them can lead to a legal penalty.

Remember you are a visitor in their home, and you need to adapt to their culture, not the other way around. I have found learning someone else’s culture brings a certain enlightenment to your own.

I hope our tips help you answer some common travel questions. Please write us a question if you want to know further.

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