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Thailand Travel Costs: Tips for a Budget-Savvy Holiday Trip
Thailand is a popular holiday destination for budget-conscious travellers, offering a diverse range of experiences without breaking the bank.
With some careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a memorable holiday in Thailand without overspending. But how can you do that, exactly?
To have a budget-savvy holiday trip in Thailand, stay in budget accommodations, eat at local food stalls, use public transportation, and opt for free or low-cost activities like temple visits and outdoor adventures.
Don’t forget to negotiate prices, and always have cash on hand for better deals.
To help you plan more for a budget-savvy trip, we’ve put together some tips for cutting costs on accommodations, transportation, food, and activities.
Read on to find out more!
Cost of Visiting Thailand during Holidays
The cost of travelling to Thailand during the holiday season can vary depending on several factors.
Here’s what you need to know to budget for your trip.
| Expenses | Cost range |
|---|---|
| Flight | 10,000 THB – 30,000 THB |
| Accommodation | 500 THB – 30,000 THB per night |
| Transportation | 20 THB – 500 THB per trip |
| Food | 50 THB – 500 THB per meal |
| Activities and entertainment | 50 THB – 1,500 THB per person |
Flight Costs to Thailand during Holiday Season
Thailand is a popular tourist destination all year round, but the holiday season is especially busy with tourists flocking to the country to experience its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant culture.
As a result, flight costs during the holiday season can be quite expensive, and it’s important to plan ahead to get the best deal.
| Budget Traveller | Average Traveller | Luxury Traveller | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo Traveller | 15,000 THB- 30,000 THB | 25,000 THB – 50,000 THB | 50,000+ THB |
| Couple | 30,000 THB- 60,000 THB | 50,000 THB- 100,000 THB | 100,000+ THB |
| Family (4 people) | 60,000 THB – 120,000 THB | 100,000 THB – 200,000 THB | 200,000+ THB |
| Note: The above costs are approximate and may vary based on various factors such as airline, time of booking, time of travel, and other factors. |
Accommodation Costs to Thailand during Holiday Season
Spending on accommodations is another essential expense when you’re planning a holiday trip anywhere, of course. So, how much should you prepare for this when you’re vacationing in Thailand?
Well, it all depends on where you’re planning to stay and what kind of place you’re looking for. But no worries, I got you covered!
Here’s a quick rundown of accommodation costs in Thailand during the holiday season:
| Accommodation Type | Solo Traveler | Couple | Family (4 people) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel | 100 THB – 600 THB/night | 200 THB – 1,200 THB/night | 400 THB – 2,400 THB/night |
| Airbnb | 1,000 THB – 3,000 THB/night | 1,000 THB – 3,000 THB/night | 1,500 THB – 4,000 THB/night |
| Hotel | 500 THB – 1,500 THB/night | 1,500 THB 4,000 THB/night | 3,000 THB – 8,000 THB/night |
| Villa | 5,000 THB – 30,000 THB/night | 8,000 THB – 40,000 THB/night | 15,000 THB – 60,000 THB/night |
| Beach Bungalow | 1,500 THB – 6,000 THB/night | 2,000 THB – 8,000 THB/night | 4,000 THB – 16,000 THB/night |
| NOTE: Prices are estimates only and may vary depending on the location and season. |
Hostels
Hostels are perfect for solo travellers or backpackers who want to meet other travellers and save money on accommodation costs.
Plus, hostels often have common areas and activities, making them a great choice for socialising with other travellers during the holiday season.
Airbnbs
Image source: iStock
Airbnb is a great option for travellers who want to experience local life in Thailand.
Staying in an Airbnb allows travellers to have a more authentic experience, as they can interact with locals and explore the area on their own terms.
Hotels
Hotels are great for travellers who want convenience and comfort during their holiday in Thailand. They are available in all price ranges, from budget to luxury, and offer various amenities such as pools, restaurants, and gyms.
Beach Bungalows
Beach bungalows are perfect for travellers who want a unique and relaxing experience during their holiday in Thailand. These accommodations offer a more natural and tranquil setting, with many located right on the beach.
Plus, beach bungalows are a great choice for those who want to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Thailand’s beaches.
Villas
Villas can be a great option for those looking for luxurious and private accommodation during their holiday in Thailand. With ample space, top-notch amenities, and stunning views, villas can provide the ultimate holiday experience.
They are particularly suitable for those travelling in a group or with family, as they offer privacy, space, and flexibility.
While they may be more expensive than other types of accommodations, they offer a unique and exclusive experience that is well worth the cost.
Some of the features of villas may include private pools, spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and personalised services.
| LOCAL TIP: Many hotels and resorts offer early bird discounts before holiday season, so it’s worth doing your research and booking ahead of time to get the best deal. Additionally, consider staying outside of popular tourist areas, as prices tend to be lower and you can still easily access the attractions and activities you want to do. |
Cost of Food in Thailand during Holiday Season
During the holiday season, food prices can be a bit different depending on the location and type of restaurant you visit.
Check out this quick rundown of the cost of food in Thailand during the holiday season:
| Food Options | Price Range in THB per meal |
|---|---|
| Street food | 30 THB – 80 THB |
| Local markets | 50 THB – 150 THB |
| Small restaurants | 100 THB – 200 THB |
| Mid-range restaurants | 200 THB – 400 THB |
| International restaurants | 300 THB – 1,500 THB |
| Fine dining | 1,500+THB |
Street food: Street food is the heart and soul of Thailand’s food scene. During the holiday season, you can find a wide variety of street food options. Some popular street food dishes include Pad Thai, Som Tam (papaya salad), and Khao Soi (curry noodles).
Local restaurants: Local restaurants are a great option for budget-conscious travellers looking for a sit-down meal. Some famous local dishes include Tom Yum soup, Green Thai Curry, and Massaman Curry.
International restaurants: Thailand has a diverse culinary scene, with many international restaurants offering a range of cuisines. You can spot international cuisines in Thailand including Japanese, Italian, and Mexican.
Fine dining: For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Thailand has a range of fine dining options available. We recommend checking out Gaggan, Bo.lan, and Nahm for fine dining restaurants in Thailand.
| LOCAL TIP: Thailand is famous for its street food scene, and during the holiday season, there are many markets and street vendors that offer traditional holiday treats such as Khanom krok (coconut rice pancakes), Kanom Jin (rice noodles with various curries), and Thong Yot (sweet egg yolk balls). These treats are often cheaper than those found in restaurants and are a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine. |
Cost of Transportation in Thailand during Holiday Season
While travelling to Thailand during the holiday season can be exciting, it’s important to be prepared for the potential challenges that come with it, especially when riding public transportations.
Trains can be crowded, and the hot and humid weather or sudden rain can make it uncomfortable. It’s also important to be wary of scams when taking taxis or tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis can be risky.
Finally, songthaews may take some time to get used to. However, with proper preparation, you can navigate through the transportation options with ease.
Now, to give you a quick rundown of the transportation costs, here’s a quick list of what you should expect when travelling around Thailand during the holidays.
| Type of Transportation | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | 50 THB – 200 THB |
| Songthaew | 10 THB – 50 THB |
| Motorcycle Taxi | 20 THB – 80 THB |
| Grab Taxi | 50 THB – 500 THB |
| BTS Skytrain | 15 THB – 52 THB |
| MRT Subway | 16 THB – 42 THB |
| Local Bus | 8 THB – 30 THB |
| Long-Distance Bus | 100 THB – 500 THB |
- Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Thailand, especially for short distances.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most cities in Thailand and are a more comfortable and convenient option than tuk-tuks.
- Grab: Grab is a ride-hailing app available in Thailand that is similar to Uber or Lyft in other countries. It offers a convenient and affordable option for getting around cities.
The cost of a Grab ride varies depending on the distance but is generally cheaper than taxis.
- Public Transportation: Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is available in most major cities in Thailand. It is the cheapest option for getting around but can be crowded and less convenient.
| LOCAL TIP: If you’re planning to travel around Thailand during the holiday season, it’s important to plan your transportation ahead of time. Popular routes and transportation options can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book in advance. Additionally, be aware of peak travel times and avoid travelling during rush hours to avoid traffic congestion. Finally, it’s always a good idea to carry small bills and change for taxis and public transportation, as drivers may not have change for larger bills. |
Budget for Holiday Activities and Entertainment in Thailand
Thailand is such an amazing country, with so many things to do and see, especially during the holiday season.
Whether you want to explore temples, go shopping in local markets, chill out on the beach, or go for a hike in the mountains, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Of course, it’s important to keep in mind your budget when planning your activities and entertainment.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular options and how much you might expect to spend:
| Activity | Estimated Cost (per person) |
|---|---|
| Temple visits | 50 THB – 200 THB |
| Outdoor activities | 500 THB – 1,500 THB for a half-day trip |
| Nightlife | 100 THB – 500 THB for a cocktail 500 THB – 1,000 THB for entrance to a popular club |
| Beach activities | 200 THB – 500 THB per hour for renting water sports equipment |
| Cultural shows | 500 THB – 1,000 THB |
- Temple visits: Thailand is known for its beautiful temples, and visiting them is a must-do activity for many travellers.
- Outdoor activities: Thailand has plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, such as hiking, snorkelling, and kayaking. The cost of these activities varies depending on the location and operator.
- Nightlife: For a vibrant nightlife scene, Thailand won’t disappoint you especially in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya. Prices for drinks and entrance fees vary depending on the establishment.
- Beach activities: Thailand is famous for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy such as swimming, sunbathing, and renting water sports equipment like kayaks and paddleboards.
- Cultural shows: For a glimpse into traditional Thai culture, consider attending a cultural show like a traditional dance or puppet show.
Tips for Saving Money in Thailand during Holiday Season
If you’re looking to maximise your budget while still having a memorable holiday experience in Thailand, you’re in luck!
We’ve compiled some tips to help you save money during the holiday season.
- Stay in budget accommodations: While Thailand has many luxury hotels and resorts, you can find plenty of budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses.
- Eat like a local: Thailand is known for its delicious street food, which is not only tasty but also affordable. Eating at local food markets and street stalls can save you money compared to dining at restaurants.
- Use public transportation: Taxis and private transportation can be expensive in Thailand, especially during the holiday season. Consider using public transportation such as buses and trains to save money on transportation.
- Bargain for goods and services: Bargaining is a common practice in Thailand, especially in markets and street stalls. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices for goods and services to get the best deals.
- Book activities in advance: Booking activities and tours in advance can often save you money compared to booking them on the spot. Look for deals and discounts online before your trip.
- Avoid tourist traps: Some tourist attractions and activities in Thailand can be overpriced and not worth the cost. Do your research before visiting attractions and avoid tourist traps to save money.
