Your Thailand Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know for 2026

Planning a trip to Thailand? This comprehensive guide will help you travel smarter, safer, and with confidence. Inside, you’ll find up-to-date information on every key aspect of visiting the Land of Smiles:

Entry & Documents
Passport validity, the new e-Visa system, Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), and the 2025 Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).

Health & Safety
Recommended vaccinations, mosquito-borne disease precautions, common scams to avoid, emergency contacts, and travel insurance advice.

Money & Payments
Daily budget ranges for different travel styles, ATM fees, cash versus card usage, and the best money transfer tools.

Connectivity
Best local SIM and eSIM options, where to buy them, and roaming warnings for travelers from the EU, US, and UK.

Transport & Driving
How to get around Thailand by train, bus, taxi, tuk-tuk, and ride-hailing apps such as Grab. Key tips for renting and driving safely.

Customs & Airport Rules
Carry-on liquid limits, power bank regulations, and what items are restricted or need special approval.

Food & Water Safety
How to enjoy Thai street food safely, must-try dishes, and important drinking water tips.

Culture & Etiquette
Temple dress codes, the traditional Thai greeting (wai), tipping practices, and how to respect local customs and laws.

Travel Timing & Planning
Best seasons to visit, booking advice, time zone differences, and recommended trip lengths.

Top 5 Highlights
Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Pho, Chiang Mai and the northern mountains, Phuket and Krabi islands, Ayutthaya and Sukhothai ruins, and Thailand’s floating markets.

Useful Travel Apps
Ride-hailing, navigation, translation, currency management, and safety apps to make your trip stress-free.

Whether you are backpacking, traveling as a couple, or enjoying a luxury escape, this guide gives you the practical, reliable information you need to make the most of your Thailand adventure.

Transcript

1. Your Thailand Travel Guide Heading to Thailand? A little planning goes a long way. Staying informed helps you avoid surprises, stay safe, and travel smarter. This guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth, confident trip to the Land of Smiles. Entry & Documents Know what documents and entry steps are required Health & Safety Protect your health and stay safe throughout your journey Money & Payments Save money and use the best local payment tools Stay Connected Avoid connectivity hassles and stay online easily
2. Entry & Documents Getting into Thailand is straightforward for most Western travelers, but recent changes mean you'll need to plan ahead. Here's what you need to know about entry requirements and the latest documentation updates for 2025. 1 Passport Validity Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date into Thailand. Check this before booking your flight to avoid any last-minute issues. 2 Visa-Free Entry Most Western, ASEAN, UK, and US citizens can enter visa-free for 60 days for tourism purposes. This can often be extended by an additional 30 days at Thai immigration offices. 3 Thai e-Visa System From January 1, 2025, the full Thai e-Visa system is available globally, making it easier to apply for visas online if you need one for longer stays or specific purposes. 4 Digital Arrival Card Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign arrivals must submit an online arrival card (TDAC) within 3 days before arrival. This replaces the old paper TM6 form. 5 ETA Requirement From June 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to register for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to Thailand. 6 Proof of Funds Reinstated in May 2025, tourist visa applicants must now show financial capacity. Keep bank statements or proof of funds handy when applying. Pro tip: Register with your embassy (Netherlands, UK, US) via online travel registry portals before you travel. This helps your government contact you in case of emergencies.
3. Health & Safety Staying Healthy Thailand is generally safe health-wise, but taking precautions is smart. Standard vaccines like MMR, DPT, and Hepatitis A are recommended. Check with your local health authority or visit a travel clinic before departure. Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika are present, especially during rainy season. Use repellents, wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and consider mosquito nets in rural areas. Medical care in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai is excellent, with modern hospitals and English-speaking staff. However, remote areas have limited facilities. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Safety Risks to Watch For Petty Crime Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in tourist areas. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and on public transport. Motorbike Accidents Traffic accidents are a leading cause of tourist injuries. Always wear a helmet, drive defensively, and consider your experience level before renting a motorbike. Tourist Scams Be wary of overcharges on tours, tuk-tuks, and gem shops. Fake guides and taxi scams are common. Use official services and agree on prices beforehand. Southern Border Areas The U.S. State Department issues a "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" warning, especially for southern provinces (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat) due to ongoing security concerns. Emergency Contacts General emergency: 191 Tourist police: 1155 Keep your embassy emergency number saved
4. Money & Payments Understanding Thai currency and budgeting helps you make the most of your money. The Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency, with exchange rates typically around THB 34336 per USD 1, though this fluctuates based on market conditions. Daily Budget Estimates $30-50 Budget Travel Approximately ?1,00031,800 per day Hostels or budget guesthouses Street food and local restaurants Public transport and local buses $70-120 Mid-Range Travel Approximately ?2,50034,300 per day Comfortable hotels Mix of local and tourist restaurants Some tours and activities $150+ Luxury Travel ?5,400+ per day High-end resorts Fine dining experiences Private tours and premium services Payment Methods ATMs and cards are widely available in cities and tourist areas. However, ATM fees are substantial4expect around ?200 per withdrawal plus your bank's international fees and exchange rate markup. Cash versus cards: Small vendors, street food stalls, and local markets prefer cash. Major shops, hotels, and restaurants accept credit cards, but always carry baht for everyday purchases. Money Transfer Tools Services like Wise and Revolut work well for managing currency, though local conversion fees and ATM charges still apply. Some banks may limit large online transfers to around ?50,000 per day under new anti-fraud rules. Smart tip: Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks. Bring a backup card and keep some emergency cash in a safe place.
5. Connectivity Staying connected in Thailand is easy and affordable. Whether you choose a local SIM card or an eSIM, you'll have plenty of options to keep in touch, navigate, and share your adventures. The three major providers4AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC4 all offer excellent coverage in tourist areas. SIM Card & eSIM Options AIS Tourist SIM 15 GB for 8 days: ?299 50 GB for 30 days: ?899 Excellent 5G coverage in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and major tourist destinations TrueMove H / DTAC Unlimited 5G + calls for 8 days: ?449 Unlimited 5G + calls for 30 days: ?1,199 Popular among travelers for unlimited data packages eSIM Options Global providers (Airalo, etc.): USD 9335 Convenient to set up before you travel4no physical SIM needed Varies by data amount and duration Where to Buy Airport booths: Available immediately upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in Bangkok Official provider shops: Found in malls and tourist areas Online pre-order: Many providers let you order and pick up at the airport Roaming Warning If you're from the EU, US, or UK, using your home SIM card will likely result in high roaming charges. A local SIM or eSIM is strongly recommended for anyone staying more than a few days.
6. Transport & Driving Getting Around Thailand Thailand offers a wide range of transport options, from ultra-modern trains in Bangkok to tuk-tuks in smaller towns. Public transport is efficient in major cities4Bangkok's BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are clean, fast, and affordable. Long-distance buses and trains connect cities and tourist destinations across the country. Taxis & Ride Apps Always insist taxis use the meter, or better yet, use Grab or Bolt ride- hailing apps for transparent pricing and convenience. These apps are widely used and moderately priced. Tuk-Tuks Fun for short rides, but negotiate the price before you get in. Tuk-tuk scams and overcharging are common in tourist areas. Consider them more for the experience than efficient transport. Trains & Buses Night buses and sleeper trains are excellent for overnight travel between cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and southern beaches. Book in advance during peak season. Driving in Thailand If you plan to drive, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home license. Traffic can be chaotic, and accidents4especially involving motorbikes 4are common. Safety first: Always wear a helmet on motorbikes, drive defensively, and be extra cautious at night. If you're not an experienced rider, consider alternative transport options. Border area warning: Avoid driving in dangerous border regions, especially the southern provinces (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat) where security concerns persist.
7. Customs & Airport Rules Understanding Thailand's customs and airport regulations helps you breeze through arrival and avoid confiscation or fines. Most rules align with international standards, but Thailand has some specific restrictions worth noting. Carry-On Liquids Standard international rules apply: containers of 100 ml or less, all fitting in one clear, resealable plastic bag. Power Banks Allowed in carry-on luggage, but some airports restrict power banks over 100 Wh capacity. Check your device specifications. Import Restrictions Thailand has strict rules on e- cigarettes, vapes, certain medications, and drones. Register drones in advance to avoid hefty fines. The New Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign arrivals must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 3 days before arrival. This replaces the old paper TM6 form you used to fill out on the plane. Submit via the official TDAC website only Beware of scam sites charging fees4the official service is free or minimal cost Keep a confirmation on your phone to show at immigration Ensure all information matches your passport exactly Scam alert: Use only the official TDAC site. Third-party sites may charge excessive fees or steal your information.
8. Food & Water Thai cuisine is legendary4and for good reason. From fragrant curries to sweet mango sticky rice, the food is a highlight of any trip. But knowing what's safe to eat and drink helps you enjoy it all without getting sick. Tap Water Not safe to drink in most places. Stick to bottled or filtered water. Ice in tourist restaurants is generally safe, but use caution in remote areas. Street Food Generally safe in busy stalls with high turnover. Look for places where locals eat and food is cooked fresh in front of you. Avoid items sitting out for long periods. Restaurants Tourist-area restaurants follow good hygiene standards. Mid- range and upscale places are very safe. When in doubt, choose places that look clean and busy. Must-Try Thai Foods Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, and tamarind sauce Tom Yum: Spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and galangal Som Tam: Green papaya salad with chilies, lime, and peanuts Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet coconut rice with ripe mango4a perfect dessert Massaman Curry: Rich, mild curry with peanuts and potatoes Grilled Meat Skewers: Found everywhere, perfect street snack
9. Culture & Etiquette Thai culture is rooted in respect, Buddhism, and a deep reverence for the monarchy. Understanding and honoring local customs makes your trip more meaningful and helps you avoid unintentional offense. Temple Dress Code Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. Remove shoes before entering temple buildings. Wear modest, respectful clothing. Respect for Monarchy Insulting the Thai monarchy is illegal and taken very seriously. Avoid any negative comments or disrespectful behavior toward royal images or family members. The Wai Greeting The "wai"4hands pressed together in a prayer-like gesture with a slight bow4is a common form of respect. Return a wai when it's offered to you. Photography Rules Avoid photographing royal imagery, military areas, or monks without permission. Always ask before taking close-up photos of local people. Tipping Culture Tipping isn't mandatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, leave 5310% if service charge isn't included. Tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers small amounts (?203100) for good service. Additional Etiquette Don't touch anyone's head4it's considered sacred Don't point your feet at people or Buddha images Remove shoes when entering homes and some shops Speak calmly4loud voices are seen as rude
10. Travel Timing & Planning Timing your trip right makes a huge difference. Thailand's tropical climate means distinct seasons that affect everything from prices to crowds to weather comfort. Here's how to plan the perfect visit. When to Visit Thailand 1 November 3 February Best time: Cool, dry weather. Peak tourist season with higher prices but perfect conditions for beaches and cities alike. 2 March 3 April Hot season: Very hot and humid, but manageable. Songkran (Thai New Year) in mid-April brings massive water fights and celebrations. 3 May 3 October Monsoon season: Heavy rains, especially September3 October. Lower prices and fewer crowds, but beach activities may be limited. Some islands close down. Time Difference Bangkok is +6 hours ahead of London and +7 hours ahead of New York (varies with daylight saving). Recommended Trip Length 10314 days gives a good balance to explore both northern culture (Bangkok, Chiang Mai) and southern beaches (Phuket, Krabi). Booking Advice Book flights and hotels 233 months ahead for peak season (Nov3Feb). Last-minute deals are common in monsoon season. Pro tip: Avoid monsoon months (May3October) if you're focused on beach destinations, but this period can be great for exploring cities and cultural sites with fewer tourists.
11. Top 5 Highlights Thailand offers an incredible variety of experiences. Whether you're drawn to history, beaches, or culture, these five highlights should be on every traveler's list. 01 Bangkok's Grand Palace & Wat Pho The vibrant royal and religious heart of Thailand. The Grand Palace is a stunning complex of ornate buildings, while nearby Wat Pho houses the famous Reclining Buddha and traditional Thai massage school. 02 Chiang Mai & Northern Mountains Culture, nature, and elephant sanctuaries await in the north. Explore ancient temples, visit ethical elephant experiences, trek through jungle, and immerse yourself in night markets and local crafts. 03 Phuket / Krabi / Phi Phi Islands Tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and world- class snorkeling. Island-hop between stunning beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch unforgettable sunsets. 04 Ayutthaya & Sukhothai Ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage historical parks. Wander among crumbling temples and Buddha statues that tell the story of Thailand's former kingdoms. Rent a bike for the best experience. 05 Floating Markets & River Cruises Experience unique local life along Thailand's iconic canals and rivers. Watch vendors sell fruits, flowers, and food from traditional wooden boats4an unforgettable glimpse into Thai culture.
12. Useful Travel Apps The right apps make navigating Thailand effortless. From ride-hailing to translation, these tools help you travel smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Thailand-Specific Apps Grab & Bolt Essential ride-hailing and food delivery apps. Transparent pricing, English interface, and cashless payment. Download before you arrive. TrueID / AIS / DTAC Apps Manage your mobile data usage, top up your account, and check your balance. Helpful if you buy a local SIM card. Thai Rail & 12Go Asia Book trains, buses, and ferries across Thailand. Compare prices, see schedules, and reserve seats in advance for popular routes. General Travel Apps Navigation & Maps Google Maps / Maps.me: Navigation, offline maps, and local business info Language & Translation Google Translate / iTranslate: Essential for communicating and reading Thai menus and signs Money & Currency XE Currency: Real-time exchange rates Revolut / Wise: Manage multiple currencies and transfer money affordably Safety & Security ExpressVPN / ProtonVPN: Secure your internet connection on public Wi-Fi networks Weather AccuWeather: Monitor monsoon patterns and storm forecasts, especially during rainy season Communication WhatsApp: Stay in touch with hotels, tour operators, and travel companions
13. You're Ready to Explore Thailand You're now well-prepared to travel to Thailand with confidence and ease. From navigating entry requirements and staying healthy to managing your money and getting around, you have all the essential information you need for a smooth, enjoyable trip. Before You Go Double-check entry rules, visa requirements, and health recommendations close to your departure date. Requirements can change, so stay informed. Respect & Enjoy Honor local laws, culture, and customs. Thai people are warm and welcoming4show respect and you'll have an even richer experience. Stay Safe Follow safety advice, protect your health, and use common sense. Register with your embassy and keep emergency contacts handy. Thailand offers unforgettable experiences4from ancient temples and bustling markets to pristine beaches and delicious cuisine. With this guide in hand, you're ready to make the most of every moment. Safe travels, and enjoy the Land of Smiles!