Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

Man walking through an airport with his suitcase

Getty Images

Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

TOPSHOT - Black smoke rises from a military airport in Chuguyev near Kharkiv  on February 24, 2022. - Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine today with explosions heard soon after across the country and its foreign minister warning a "full-scale invasion" was underway. (Photo by Aris Messinis / AFP) (Photo by ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

Join the Conversation

Tags: Russia , Ukraine , Travel , Coronavirus , Travel Tips , Israel , Gaza , violence , Civil War , crime , kidnapping

Recent Articles

Best countries.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Best Countries Rankings

  • # 1 Switzerland
  • # 5 Australia
  • # 5 United States

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed daily on the latest news and advice on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

You May Also Like

Switzerland is world's best country.

Julia Haines Sept. 6, 2023

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Photos: Best Countries Around the World

Sept. 6, 2023

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

The 25 Best Countries in the World

Elliott Davis Jr. Sept. 6, 2023

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Australia, UK Sign New Defence Pact

Reuters March 20, 2024

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Why Finland Is the Happiest Country

Brianna Navarre March 20, 2024

Is Thailand Safe to Travel in 2024?

A detailed article answering the question: “Is Thailand safe to travel?”, including lots of safety travel advice for Thailand in Southeast Asia.

All the best parts of Thailand are constantly advertised. From the gorgeous landscapes and the delicious street food to the smiling people and the enticing culture, Thailand seems like a magical travel destination. 

Thailand is absolutely incredible, and it deserves a spot on every traveller’s bucket list . 

That being said, you should always take safety precautions when traveling somewhere new. 

The unknown can be scary, and you always want to be mentally and physically prepared for anything. 

The best way to be prepared for visiting a new country is by doing your research before you go. 

So if you are planning your first trip to Thailand and you’re wondering “Is Thailand dangerous?” or “is Thailand safe for travel?” then this article will tell you everything you need to know. 

Thailand is a very safe country for travel. Even if you are traveling alone in Thailand, you shouldn’t have any problems in the country if you are smart and constantly aware of your surroundings. Especially in tourist destinations!

In this article, you’ll learn a bit about what to expect in Thailand, as well as some general safety tips and some advice about solo travel in Thailand. 

On a side note, we always recommend getting a travel insurance policy no matter where you go. Even if a country is safe, such as Thailand, having travel insurance can save you if anything should happen.

Table of Contents

Self-Control

Rural areas, beaches and islands, avoid protests, be wary of scams, use street smarts, travel safety in thailand, health safety, safety against crime, solo travel in thailand, what to expect for safety in thailand.

Keeping all this knowledge in mind, you should be fully prepared to venture over to Southeast Asia and make the most of your time in beautiful Thailand! Here is our best Thailand travel advice.

Thai Culture

For people wondering “Is Thailand dangerous?” it is hard to answer that question with a plain “Yes” or “No”.

Every country has good and bad parts, but generally speaking, Thailand is definitely one of the safer countries in the world to travel to. 

There are three main values in Thai culture of which travelers should be aware: positivity, respect, and self-control.

If you maintain these values while traveling in Thailand, you’ll blend right in with the locals and have no issues with anyone. 

Thailand is a warm and welcoming country, where the people are friendly and the nickname “Land of Smiles” rings true. 

The positive, light-hearted, non-confrontational attitude of Thai people is central to their culture, and they generally act the same way with travelers.

Tourism is a huge source of income for the country, so most Thais happily welcome foreigners and are eager to share their culture with them. 

One of the most important values in Thai culture is respect. 

It is vital for locals to show respect to one another, including tourists. This means that tourists should always show respect to the locals in return. 

Thais maintain respect for everyone, especially for those of higher significance, like monks, doctors, political figures, the Thai King and the Thai royal family, and even elders, so travelers should do the same. 

The Thai royal family and King are very well respected in Thailand, and you’ll see photos of them everywhere.

Is Thailand Safe To Travel

Thais also value self-control. They avoid raising conflicts, they avoid lying, yelling, or screaming, and they never make a scene in public. 

If travelers can also control their emotions and remain calm in public situations, they will have no reason to come into conflict with anyone in Thailand. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our complete list of the best things to do in the country !

Backpacker Culture in Thailand

Because international travel and tourism is such a huge part of the Thai economy, there is a huge community of backpackers and travelers in Thailand. 

Backpacker culture is very different than local Thai culture because you’ll be surrounded by lots of different nationalities rather than Thai locals. 

Here are a few aspects of the backpacker culture in Thailand of which travelers should be aware. 

Thailand is packed with cheap hostels in which travelers tend to congregate.

Staying in a communal area with lots of other travelers means there are certain precautions you must take to ensure your space is respected and your belongings stay safe. 

Safety Tips for Hostels

  • Always lock your valuables in a locker or at the front desk.
  • Put luggage locks on your backpacks and suitcases.
  • Keep your most valuable belongings on your person (passport, wallet, camera).
  • Make sure a hostel has lots of positive reviews from other travelers before staying there.
  • Don’t open the hostel door for strangers.

The party scene is a massive part of the backpacker culture in Thailand. 

Especially in touristy cities, there are certain bars or clubs where all the tourists go and it won’t even feel like you’re in Thailand at all. 

You’ll definitely want to let loose and enjoy the nightlife in Thailand, but always keep your wits about you and maintain these precautions. 

Safety Tips for Partying

  • Only bring as much cash as you’ll need for the night.
  • Have a secure wallet or purse that you won’t lose to store your ID and cash in.
  • Go out with a group of people.
  • Make sure your group doesn’t leave without you.
  • Make sure you know your way home.
  • Never leave your drink unattended.
  • Avoid getting overly intoxicated.
  • Never accept drinks from strangers.

Always Be Smart When Drinking And Partying In Thailand!

Landscape of Thailand

When considering if Thailand is safe for travel, don’t forget to consider the natural world and the landscape of the country.

Being safe while traveling means maintaining awareness of the elements as well, so make sure you know what type of environments you’ll be in before traveling to Thailand. 

Thailand has a few big cities and tourist areas, with Bangkok being the biggest and most famous. 

The major cities of Thailand are vibrant and packed with excitement, so follow this travel advice to ensure you stay safe in a big city. 

  • Be aware of the air pollution in Bangkok. If you have asthma or other respiratory problems, consult your doctor before you go to ensure the air quality levels in Bangkok will be safe for you.
  • Getting lost makes you feel vulnerable, so always have a map or a navigation APP on your phone in case you get lost in a big city.

When heading away from the big cities and tourist areas of Thailand, you’ll get to witness the more rural areas of Thailand and immerse yourself in real, authentic culture. 

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to rural areas of Thailand, such as the mountains, national parks, or the countryside. 

  • Animals in rural areas of Thailand may have rabies, so avoid animal contact and get vaccinated before heading out there.
  • Insect-borne diseases, like malaria, are more common in rural areas. Take medications if necessary and always wear insect repellant, especially when hiking or camping. 
  • Always check weather updates before hiking or camping in the wilderness.
  • Stick to marked paths or routes when hiking to avoid getting lost.

READ MORE: Be sure to know these great travel tips for visiting Thailand !

Thailand’s beaches are picture-perfect, and beach-lovers will have a blast island-hopping around the country. 

To make the most of your time in the Thai islands, keep these safety tips in mind. 

  • Always wear sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher. The sun is extremely strong in Thailand, and a bad sunburn can ruin a trip or even make you ill. 
  • Educate yourself about rip currents and how to avoid them in the ocean.
  • Avoid swimming on deserted beaches alone. If there’s no lifeguard, the ocean may not be suitable for swimming. 
  • Be aware of sea creatures like jellyfish and sea urchins, especially when snorkeling in coral reefs. 

Thailand Safety Tips Longtail Boats

General Safety Tips in Thailand

To ensure that you feel safe while traveling in Thailand, there are some general safety precautions you should take no matter where you are in the country. Even in popular tourist destinations it’s good to be aware.  

Thailand is a pretty peaceful country compared to some of its neighbors, but the occasional protest or riot can break out. 

On the off-chance that a protest turns violent, it can become an unfortunate situation to be in. 

Just avoid protest areas altogether to avoid unnecessary conflict during your trip.

If a protest breaks out in the area you are in, make plans to leave as soon as possible. Also make sure you know where your nearest embassy or consulate is just in case.

Most Thais are friendly and genuine towards tourists, but there are always rare cases of locals trying to take advantage of foreigners. 

Dishonest locals may try to scam tourists in tourist areas, not in a violent or inappropriate way, they just may try to milk a bit more money out of you. 

For example, if a stranger in the street offers you tours, discounts, shopping, or anything else, just say no. 

Most Thais are friendly, but if a random person in the street is overly friendly and a bit pushy while trying to offer you something, they are probably trying to rip you off.

Just trust your gut, say no with confidence, and only book tours with legitimate tourism companies.

As I mentioned earlier, Thailand is a very safe country to visit. Any scary scenarios discussed in this article are usually pretty rare. 

So the most useful safety tip for traveling Thailand is to use general street smarts. 

Sometimes while traveling, it feels like a fun vacation and you don’t use your head as often as you would at home. 

But maintaining good judgment, common sense, and level-headedness while traveling is usually enough to keep you safe abroad. 

Some general travel street smarts include:

  • Avoid walking around alone at night.
  • Know the local emergency phone number.
  • Keep your passport, money, and other valuables securely stored or safely on your person at all times.
  • Make copies of important documents in case you misplace one.
  • Avoid any situation that makes you feel uneasy, uncomfortable or scared.
  • Only book hostels, hotels, or tours that have reputable, positive customer reviews.
  • Don’t share lots of personal information with strangers.

READ MORE: Here’s a great travel packing list for Thailand to get you started!

While on the road in Thailand, always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. 

This includes taking public transport in tourist areas and driving yourself. Keep these safety tips in mind while traveling through Thailand. 

  • Local traffic in Thailand can be hectic, so always use caution and follow the road rules while driving to avoid road accidents.
  • If you are driving a motorbike, be extremely careful. You are more vulnerable on a bike, and motorcycle accidents are common. Wear a helmet and don’t speed. 
  • Stay on alert at border crossings between Thailand and its neighboring countries. Thailand is very safe, but the rare violence and conflict that does occur usually happens at border crossings. Just get through as quickly and quietly as you can and don’t linger if there’s any trouble happening. 
  • Stay up-to-date on current news to avoid any problem areas. Always check if there are any political issues or natural disasters so you know where is safe to go.

Staying Safe In Thailand Bus

Your health should always be a top priority while traveling. 

In addition to wearing sunscreen and mosquito repellant, and speaking to your doctor before leaving home about any medications or vaccinations, there are a few other health safety tips you should keep in mind in Thailand. 

Again, having a travel insurance policy is also a smart idea in case you need any medical evacuation or treatment abroad.

  • Always maintain good hygiene. Wash your hands, carry hand sanitizer, and avoid unnecessary contact with others. This helps prevent the spread of germs and may save you from getting sick. 
  • Make sure you listen to your body. If you feel sick or tired, take a rest day and eat healthy foods. It sucks to feel like you’re missing out on fun travel experiences, but you’ll feel better if you just let your body heal. It’s very common for travelers to get over-exhausted by packing in too much excitement, so maintain a healthy balance while traveling.
  • If you do need medical care, make sure you get it. Thailand has lots of reputable health centers, but sometimes there are discounted or volunteer ones in more rural areas that aren’t as trustworthy as the official ones. 
  • Stay updated on any current health crises.
  • Always purchase travel insurance before a trip. Even if you think you won’t need travel insurance, you never know what will happen abroad and you always want to be covered. Things like medical evacuation can be super expensive, so insurance is a must.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

For people wondering, “Is Thailand dangerous?”, you’ll be happy to know that the most common crimes in Thailand are just petty crimes like theft and robbery. 

Thailand’s local laws are very strict, and they still use the death penalty. This means any major crime may be punishable by death, so violent crime is very rare in Thailand. 

As long as you don’t break any laws when visiting Thailand and don’t make yourself a target for theft, you shouldn’t have any problems. 

Here are a few tips for making sure you stay safe against crime in Thailand. 

  • Avoid theft by making sure your valuables are either locked up safe or securely stored on your person.
  • Carry bags that close securely, and carry them so you can always have a hand or an eye on them.
  • Don’t wear expensive jewellry or flashy accessories that make you look rich because you’ll become a target for pickpockets. Dress to blend in, not to stand out.
  • While travelling on long bus or train journeys don’t separate yourself from your bags. Keep them with you at all times. 
  • If you have a big suitcase that has to be stored on top of a bus, keep a smaller backpack on you with your valuables in it. 
  • Drink spiking is another crime that may occur while partying in Thailand. Never accept a drink from a stranger, and always keep an eye on your own drink. 
  • Avoid using any illegal drugs in Thailand. Most are illegal, including marijuana, and the penalties for using or carrying drugs can be severe.

READ MORE: As you plan your trip, check out a few great Thailand itineraries !

Thailand solo travel is a liberating and exciting experience. 

Traveling solo in Thailand should not be a problem for anyone, as long as you use all the safety tips mentioned so far in this article. 

For solo female travelers, you’ll find that Thailand is a very safe country where women are respected and treated equally to men. The same safety tips apply to men and women.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when traveling alone in Thailand.

  • Stay in hostels in tourist areas if you want to meet people. It is very easy to make friends, especially at party hostels.
  • If you want to party, avoid going out alone. Try to link up with people in your hostel so you have a crew to go out with. 
  • If you’re a solo female traveler, stay in hostels that have female-only dorms if you prefer that. 
  • Register for a smart traveler program where you can update your government on your travels abroad. This ensures the government knows where you are in case something crazy happens. For example, the USA has an online program called STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) , and many other countries have similar programs. 
  • Update your friends and family back home on your whereabouts. Just letting them know where you are and where you are headed can help them keep an eye on the news and make sure everything is safe where you are.

Pack Comfortable Clothes For A Trip To Thailand!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

' src=

About the Author - Gabby Boucher

After four years of working in hospitality, volunteering abroad and travelling for fun, Gabby has developed a knack for budget travel and admiration for different cultures. Her travels have taken her through the cloud forests of Ecuador, into the villages of eastern Europe, across the islands of Thailand, and to the beaches of New South Wales, Australia, where she is currently living with a working holiday visa. She plans to continue her adventures around the world for as long as possible. Follow her on her blog , and on Instagram.

Related Posts

Keemala Phuket Review – Phuket’s Best Luxury Resort

Keemala Phuket Review – Phuket’s Best Luxury Resort

Riding the Mae Hong Son Loop – Motorbike Travel Guide

Riding the Mae Hong Son Loop – Motorbike Travel Guide

How to Visit Bangkok’s Airplane Graveyard

How to Visit Bangkok’s Airplane Graveyard

5 thoughts on “Is Thailand Safe to Travel in 2024?”

Having lived in Thailand for nearly 20 years I hate to say you’re pretty much clueless on your assessments of Thailand and Thai culture. Just stay in your western world , you don’t seem to understand Asian or Thai cultures.

Lilith has no idea what she is talking about. She sounds bitter and she should stay in western countries.

Thailand is like any other nation where patriarchy reigns supreme, the women are objectified and gender violence thrives. Women traveling to Thailand should be extremely cautious due to human trafficking and violence in work, public and private settings. Even if reports are done, the news about the incident will never be known because “saving face” is most important in Asian culture versus taking accountability to stop barbaric behavior. Corruption is rife and if money is not to be gained by the police, and you don’t have the “right” connections to regain power for solving your case, you’re rendered a nuisance and worthless. Worse yet, some may even say it’s your karma from a past life, thus justifying the violence that is silently condoned. It’s important to have balanced dialogue for the safety of all. Many women will travel and suffer before anything is done, perhaps if a number of high profile cases make world wide attention and women globally begin speaking about it, then safety measures can be put in place. Nothing worse than being hunted, and the foreign men who travel to Thailand, many are encouraged to travel there for sex tourism. Therefore, women travelers have to be extra cautious from male locals and other travelers alike.

I agree with you completely definitely use a lot of caution and get a guide.

We feel travel with caution is always important and having a guide in certain places is better but not everywhere.Thanks for your comment.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Intentional Travelers

Thailand travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Thailand travel in 2024 with official Thailand travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Since travel restrictions can vary by citizenship, we will be focusing our post on rules that affect U.S. citizens.

Last update: February 2, 2024. Originally published: November 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

February 2024: “My husband and I are in Thailand for a two-month stay. There don’t seem to be any travel restrictions. Tourism is running normally, but many people still wear masks, especially in places like the metro or on ferries. Some businesses and attractions have closed since Covid. If you have asthma or other breathing issues, watch the air quality index (The Air4Thai app works well.) and plan your trip accordingly.” –  Rachel Heller of World Heritage Net , Dutch traveler

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Thailand so you can get a sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Is Thailand open for travel? Can I travel to Thailand right now?

Thailand is currently open for foreign travelers.

As of October 2022 , proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test result are no longer required from travelers. In addition, proof of vaccination is no longer required to attend crowded events. 

Travelers holding US passports can enter Thailand for tourism purposes without the need to obtain a visa for stays up to 30 days on each visit. Thailand temporarily extended this visa exemption to 45 days for arrivals previously. However, as of April 2023, visa-free entries has reverted back to 30 days.

Travelers can always extend the standard 30 days for another 30 days by applying at a local Immigration Office and paying 1900 baht.

Travelers from countries not on the visa exemption list must apply for a Special Tourist Visa (STV) to enter Thailand as tourists.

Thailand travel restrictions and limitations may sometimes apply only in certain regions. Monitor Thailand travel news here .

A new tourist fee will soon be required to enter Thailand, but the start date has been postponed as of December 2023. This fee will be built into plane ticket costs and is only about $9 US. There will be no payment on arrival if arriving by air, but it’s unclear how the fee will work at land and sea borders.

Quarantine rules in Thailand: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers who test positive for Covid while in Thailand are asked to self-isolate for at least 5 days at the traveler’s expense. However, quarantine is no longer mandatory or being enforced. 

Quarantine should end after taking a PCR test with negative result. Those with severe symptoms will be admitted to the hospital.

Can I travel to Thailand in March 2024? Can I travel to Thailand this Spring?

Travel to Thailand in March is open . Please read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Thailand BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport or DMK Don Mueang Bangkok Airport right now? Thai Airways reports that the face mask mandate has been relaxed. Airports can be busy at times and crowds may be difficult to avoid.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to Thailand? No. See details above.

Does Thailand check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health checks are no longer common for incoming travelers.

Does Thailand require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? No. As of October 2022, a negative Covid test is no longer required.

Does Thailand require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. As of October 2022, a proof of vaccination is no longer required.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Travelers are no longer required to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Thailand? At this time, booster shots are not required in Thailand. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Thailand? PCR and antigen tests are available in Thailand. Foreign travelers can get a Covid test at the National Institute of Health, 14 Regional Medical Sciences Centers, and private hospitals in Thailand.

Covid PCR tests range from 2,500 to 10,000 Thai baht (approximately $74-$311). Test results are available within 72 hours. ATK tests are available for cheap at 711 convenience stores for 40+ baht.

See the list of Covid testing centers here.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Thailand who get the virus? Thailand’s private healthcare services are generally very good. Hospitals and clinics in Thailand are open to foreign travelers.

Treatment for Covid-19 may cost more than 100,000 Thai baht. Travelers will pay for their medical expenses or use a travel insurance.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Thailand? Restaurants, street food, malls, department stores, and other establishments are open in Thailand. Pubs, bars, karaoke outlets and other entertainment venues are now operating at their normal hours.

Are face masks required in Thailand? Wearing of masks is now voluntary in public and indoor places, except health care facilities. Some businesses may request face masks inside. 

Are buses running in Thailand? Public transportation is available in Thailand. Masks are no longer required but still encouraged. A majority of riders still wear masks on public transit, especially in Bangkok.

Will Thailand impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable. Thailand has been relatively proactive when it comes to preventive Covid measures, balanced with the need to keep the tourism industry open.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Thailand?

Thailand reported its first case of Covid infection last January 2020. Although there have been outbreaks in the following months, Thailand was successful in containing the pandemic throughout most of 2020.

Unfortunately, in April 2021, the country experienced uncontrolled resurgence of infections, ranking Thailand fourth in the number of cases in Southeast Asia.

In response to the pandemic, preventive measures such as contact tracing, lockdown measures, and international travel restrictions were implemented. These slowed the country’s economy and Thailand’s tourist industry has been severely affected. Thailand’s State of Emergency ended September 30, 2022.

To revive tourism, the islands of Phuket and Samui reopened with a “Sandbox” program to vaccinated foreign travelers in July 2021. In October 2021, Thailand travel restrictions were eased for foreign travelers. In December 2021, the Test & Go program which allowed quarantine-free entry was suspended amid the spread of the Omicron variant.

In 2022, Thailand eased entry restrictions. The color-coded system, which placed limits on travel, dining, entertainment activities, and gatherings, has been removed.

Vaccinations in Thailand began at the end of February 2021. About 2/3 of the population have been vaccinated.

For the current situation in Thailand, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Thailand; and COVID-19 testing in Thailand, please see the following Thailand Ministry of Public Health site and Facebook page .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Thailand?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Thai locals and recent travelers say about visiting Thailand now?

What is it like to visit Thailand right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

September 2023 – Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels , Australian travelers:  “We are living a nomadic retirement and arrived in Koh Samui, Thailand, in July and are staying two months. Thailand, in general, is nearly back to pre-covid tourist numbers and you can feel an optimism in the air amongst the locals. 

There are no travel restrictions here in Thailand, however, you will still see many locals wearing facemasks. Hospitals and some medical clinics are advertising Covid testing so it is accessible if required. There are certain tourist areas where you can visually see the aftermath of Covid i.e. deserted hotels that have fallen into disrepair, closed restaurants, etc., but in general, you will have no problems finding accommodation, restaurants selling great Thai food, massages, or shopping opportunities. It is now heading into the monsoon season here in Koh Samui so we have seen a huge reduction in tourists.”

May 2023 – Nat Deduck of Love and Road , Brazilian digital nomad: “I’ve been living in Phuket, Thailand for a year. Tourism in Thailand is back to normal, and apart from some Thais wearing masks, you probably won’t even remember that covid existed here. An interesting fact is that local Thais used masks way before the pandemic, so it’s a habit that got intensified after Covid.

Thailand’s tourism is in full swing. This high season (Dec-March) felt as busy as back in 2019 when we were here before Covid. Attractions, hotels, and places to visit are fully open and ready to service tourists.

Most tourists don’t wear masks, but if you feel the need to do so it’s available in every pharmacy, supermarket, and convenience shop. The same for the Covid tests, you can do it by yourself, or you can go to any clinic or hospital to do a PCR test if needed. Hospitals are back to regular services here in Phuket and Bangkok, my husband and I had to see a doctor and everything went smoothly. There was no restriction to be treated because of the pandemic, and no overflow covid cases.”

February 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We flew to Bangkok from Vietnam. Air Asia did not check our onward flight nor ask for any Covid documentation, only passports. Masking on the plane was not required but many wore face coverings, including all the crew.

Immigration wasn’t too long a wait at DMK in the evening. Just showed passport, boarding pass, took a photo, and fingerprints. At the moment, U.S. passports get 45 days in Thailand without a visa.

We later flew from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, took a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, and flew out of Chiang Mai to Vietnam . Thai airports were playing recorded announcements advising passengers to mask and socially distance, though it wasn’t enforced.

The entire building where we stayed in Bangkok required masks in common areas. On BTS public transit, an announcement is made in English that mask laws have relaxed but face coverings are still highly encouraged. At least 90% of passengers wear masks on public transit.

In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, we also saw notices recommending Covid precautions at certain establishments, many had hand sanitizer available at the entrance, however, we didn’t encounter any strict requirements.

Thailand seems back to normal and getting more busy with the influx of Chinese tourists returning. Businesses are open without restrictions. A lot of people wear surgical masks outside in Thailand, but masking was common pre-pandemic as well.”

October 2022 – Babs of https://mumsonflipflops.com , Belgian tourist:  “ We’re travelling in Thailand with 2 small children for 2 months. Travel feels completely normal in Thailand. There are plenty of tourists and hotels are busy.

There are very few Covid rules still in place. You’ll see most Thai wearing face masks at all times, but nothing is expected or enforced. As a tourist, you don’t have to wear one. The one exception is on the Air Asia flight, you’re supposed to wear a mask there. Every store/building has a temperature scanner (hand scanning) and sanitizer that you’re expected to use. We haven’t been into contact testing etc as we’re fully vaccinated and all entry rules have been lifted for Thailand (we weren’t even asked for our vaccination proof).”

September 2022 – Steffi of BeachBumAdventure , expat in Thailand:  “ Tourism is slowly coming back to Thailand and the locals are really keen for tourists to return.

In Bangkok you will still find many Thais wearing masks, even outdoors, although this is no longer a government requirement. On public transport most people are still wearing masks on trains and minivans and buses. In other areas of the country and on the islands, you rarely see people wearing masks. 

Many hotels and restaurants are welcoming visitors although some ferry schedules are still reduced due to the low number of visitors. On quieter, less touristy islands some restaurants and shops still remain closed.

Healthcare in Thailand is very efficient if you attend a private hospital, therefore I recommend making sure your health insurance covers this. Many 711 shops offer ATK tests very cheaply (40+ baht) although PCR tests remain expensive (2000+ baht).”

July 2022 – Tania of Slower Travels , digital nomad from New Zealand: “My partner and I lived as digital nomads in Phuket, Thailand for four months in 2022. Now is a great time to visit Phuket. Everything is a little on the quiet side with reduced tourist numbers but the locals are so welcoming and happy to see you.

When we arrived, there was extensive requirements and testing involved. By the time we left, most of these had been dropped. However, most people are still wearing masks in crowded places, giving a feeling of safety.”

May 2022 Linnae – American traveler with family: “We really lucked out with our arrival to Bangkok scheduled for May 1st. We had originally planned to undergo the Test & Go program but they suddenly lifted the testing and quarantine requirements.

Applying for a Thailand Pass online, which is essentially the entry visa, was a straight forward process where you just have to complete the application, provide your vaccination details, and upload pictures of your shot records, passport, and insurance card. We have regular American-style insurance through Aetna, so it covered whatever the minimum requirement was. I think there was an option to purchase some sort of travel health insurance through a Thai company.

It took about 5 days to receive the Thailand pass, which was just a QR code attached to an email. Once we had the Thailand pass, we never had to show any other form of insurance or Covid vaccination when we went through immigration. The hotel check-in was completely normal- no extra documentation required other than our passports.

Our daughter did not have to test on arrival. As a minor, she was able to enter unvaccinated with vaccinated parents. There was an option to add her to our Thailand Pass in the system. She received her own QR code for immigration.

EVERYONE was still masked, inside and outside (even in the pool). I was surprised to see children younger than 2 wearing masks. Outliers would have been the odd westerner. Social distancing did not seem to be a requirement at all.

Restaurants/sites seemed open as usual. Closures due to Covid may not be clear on the business website. So if someone is set on a specific excursion or destination, contact the place ahead of time to make sure it is still open.”

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

March 9, 2022 – Kristel, U.S. traveler:  “My husband and I have been in Thailand since the start of 2022. In Bangkok, the typical hustle and bustle of the city feels similar to pre-covid days. Street food markets such as Chinatown is packed with both locals and foreigners while the temples are still fairly quiet depending on the time you visit. 

With regards to restrictions, masks are still worn both indoors and outdoors and temperature checks are imposed when going into indoor spaces. Healthcare is easily accessible and rapid tests can be bought at a local 7-11 for very cheap. While a lot of restaurants have shut down, there are still plenty of good options and street food areas are staying busy and doing well. If visiting the islands, you can expect beautiful beaches without the crowds.”

February 11, 2022 – Abigail of I’m going on an adventure , British tourist: “My partner and I are currently travelling through Thailand for one month. We are in Phuket at the moment. Food and transport options are good with everything open and actually the area seems to have been revamped since a few years ago; its cleaner and better organised!

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

All areas are open and ready to receive guests. Face masks are still required to be worn however in the more populated tourist areas such a Patong no one seems to be using them as much. There is no contact tracing or daily testing required (except official PCR test). It’s always important to carry a face mask as some restaurants and activities will ask to have them on but in general the island so far has been very relaxed! The country still isn’t as busy as pre-covid which actually makes it an even better time to visit as it’s less crowded but there is still a nice holiday vibe.”

January 28, 2022 – Katy, American digital nomad:  “ During our visit to Chiang Mai, we found that most businesses and restaurants in the Old Town area are open. Some are temporarily closed or have reduced hours, but enough were open that it wasn’t a problem. Bars are technically closed. Be aware that you can’t purchase alcohol at restaurants and stores after a certain time in the Chiang Mai province, I believe it’s 9pm now (but it keeps changing).

Travel restrictions are being followed closely by locals and visitors for the most part. Mask wearing and temperature checks are required at all businesses & shops and people do follow these rules. Contact tracing is also required (by scanning an app or signing a register), but we found that most people didn’t bother with this step.

The one exception is at the Chiang Mai Sunday market. Contact tracing (along with mask wearing and temperature scans) are firmly enforced there. Most of the Chiang Mai markets and walking streets are open, except for the Saturday Walking Street (which is closed) and the Night Bazaar (which is mostly closed and not worth visiting). There were some other foreigners in Chiang Mai but not many.

The city is used to having a larger number of tourists, so it didn’t feel too crowded and we didn’t have any issues with waiting in lines or securing tickets to popular attractions. Access to healthcare is easy and affordable in Chiang Mai (at least compared to what we’re used to in the United States). Booster shots are available to anyone (including foreigners) and you can get a PCR test for travel at the Chiang Mai Ram Hospital.”

January 2022 – Zoe Adventura , Australian:  “ I moved to Thailand with my family in January 2022. The biggest difference between here and Australia is that everyone is expected to wear a mask all the time. Even children, and even while exercising. Most tourists don’t. Most people seem relaxed about everything, but occasionally we hear that the hospitals are full – which is pretty scary.

Travel restrictions – there are quite a few hoops to jump through to get to Thailand . We came for the Phuket Sandbox – which meant we had to book a 7 day stay in a government approved sandbox hotel, have a specific insurance paid for, and also get RT-PCR tests before travel, plus 2 more in the first week. During this week we were free to travel around Phuket. For us, it was actually pretty seamless.

Before entering Thailand you need to get a Thaipass, which can be a bit tricky, but there is plenty of information online about what you need to do. There are facebook groups which can help with any questions, and you can apply multiple times if you need.

As far as things being closed, the tourist areas of Phuket are completely different. Patong has restrictions on nightlife and alcohol service is restricted. A lot of shops are closed and boarded up in Patong, which is sad to see. On the other side of the island which typically has less tourism, it’s much less noticeable. That being said, the hotel we are currently staying in is clearly operating on skeleton staff, with half of the rooms empty. I’ve only seen 3-5 other guests, and it is a little creepy. The staff are obviously doing the best they can but the common areas are neglected. Same story in the last hotel we stayed in. All activities are cancelled, kids club is closed etc.”

December 2, 2021 – Katy, American digital nomad, A Rambling Unicorn :  “My husband and I flew from Istanbul to Phuket on Nov. 27 and then will fly to Chiang Mai on Dec. 4 when our stay in the Sandbox is complete. We have Tourist Visas and will be in Thailand for 60 days.

I arrived at the Phuket Airport in November 2021 and was amazed at the thorough measures put into place for international arrivals. All passengers were initially seated in an arrivals hall in chairs that were spaced apart for social distancing. After a check of our documents by workers covered in full PPE, we were led through 5 different stations that verified our documents and administered a PCR test on-the-spot. We were glad we had printed all of our documents out in advance – including our Thai Pass, PCR Test results and SHA+ Hotel booking. Passengers without printed copies had to print them out at a special printing station.

Thai locals take COVID very seriously. Everyone wears masks in public, even when riding open-air motor scooters. Contact tracing is managed via the MorChana app which everyone is encouraged to download. We are staying in a remote part of Phuket where some restaurants are still closed and our hotel is only half full. We haven’t encountered any lines at restaurants or crowds in this part of the island, quite the opposite actually.

Thailand is really particular about the COVID insurance. When we first applied for the COE (this was the precursor to the Thai Pass), we tried to use our World Nomads insurance and it was rejected. I’ve heard anecdotally that they only accept COVID insurance from Thai companies. I don’t know if that is true and/or if things are relaxed now that they’ve moved to the Thai Pass. When we re-applied, we bought insurance through a Thai company that specialized in Thai Pass and Tourist Visa insurance. It came with document that clearly stated COVID was covered with a coverage of 50,000 USD.”

Thailand Reopening: Phuket Sandbox Updates video published October 29 2021 See what it’s like in Phuket, with commentary from local Thai people in the tourism industry as well as recent travelers to Phuket:

Planning a trip to Thailand?

Check out our other Thailand travel resources: – Things We Would (and Wouldn’t) Do Again in Chiang Mai, Thailand – Bangkok Tourist Pass Review and Suggested Itineraries – Review: Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary + Hill Tribe Homestay – Tips for Travel in Bangkok

If you have questions or updates about travel to Thailand during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

~ Pin this post for later or share with friends ~

Thailand travel restrictions pin

Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

Similar Posts

7 Best Hoi An Day Trips – Vietnam

7 Best Hoi An Day Trips – Vietnam

Hoi An Vietnam is one of our all-time favorite destinations and places to stay. Not only does the city itself have a lot to offer, Hoi An also makes a great base for day trips. This post will explore the best Hoi An day trips to help you plan nearby things to see and do….

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance Review 2024 (with Covid Coverage)

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance Review 2024 (with Covid Coverage)

As we returned to travel during the pandemic, Jedd and I felt that trip insurance and travel medical insurance were more important than ever for our trips. We first learned about SafetyWing at a digital nomad conference. With further research, specifically considering all the uncertainties around Covid-19 and travel restriction changes, we decided to use…

How to Use Apple AirTags For Tracking Luggage When Traveling

How to Use Apple AirTags For Tracking Luggage When Traveling

With growing concerns over lost luggage and delays at airports, we decided it was time to try Apple AirTags as a luggage locator or tracking device on our trips. In this Apple AirTag review for travel, we go over our personal experience with Apple AirTag luggage tracking on various flights. We also share important things…

A Guide to Transportation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A Guide to Transportation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

If you need to know how to get around Phnom Penh, Cambodia, this post breaks down your transportation options and shares some important do’s and don’ts for safe travel in and around Phnom Penh. Special thanks to friend and fellow intentional traveler, Karen Bortvedt, who lived and worked in Phnom Penh for nearly four years,…

How to Choose an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

How to Choose an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Visiting elephants is often at the top of travelers’ lists when visiting Southeast Asia. Elephant tourism has the potential to promote a greater appreciation for these giant creatures and influence their preservation. Unfortunately, not all elephant tours are created equal. Why the Cool Kids Are No Longer Riding Elephants With the high demand for elephant…

Best things about Georgetown Penang (Plus street art + street food map)

Best things about Georgetown Penang (Plus street art + street food map)

George Town, Penang, Malaysia was recommended to us by fellow nomads. Now that we’ve been, we think Georgetown is the best place to visit in Southeast Asia for first time backpackers, couples, and new nomads. In this post we’ll share: – 6 Reasons why George Town is where to go in Southeast Asia for the…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home - smartraveller.gov.au, be informed, be prepared - logo

Search Smartraveller

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Thailand map November 2023

Thailand (PDF 998.61 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 1669 for medical emergencies and rescue services.

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok. 1669 Nationwide.

Call 191 for police.

Call 1155 for the tourist police.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution  to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Exercise a high degree of caution  to Thailand overall due to the possibility of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. 

Reconsider your need to travel  to Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat provinces.

Reconsider your need to travel  to:

  • Yala province,
  • Pattani province, and 
  • Narathiwat province

due to ongoing risks of low-level insurgent activity.

See  Safety .

  • Anti-government protests have previously occurred in Bangkok and other areas of Thailand. The security environment can be unpredictable and turn violent. Those attending protests can face arrest or other legal consequences. Monitor local media for information on protest locations and avoid public gatherings. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Popular tourist areas in Thailand may be the target of terrorist attacks. Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Border areas near Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia are dangerous due to violence, armed conflict and landmines. Pay close attention to your personal security.
  • Reconsider your need to travel to the 3 most southern provinces of the Thailand-Malaysia border: Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Low-level insurgent activity continues to occur in these areas.  
  • Sexual assault, assault, robbery and drink spiking can happen to tourists. Never leave your drink unattended. Stick with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

Full travel advice:  Safety

  • If you're visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires COVID-19 testing (RAT or PCR test) for entry, you'll need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand. The insurance will need to provide cover for COVID-19 treatment.
  • Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription. Get medical advice before buying medicine.
  • Insect-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof as possible. 
  • Animals in parts of Thailand can carry rabies. Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys. If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment immediately.
  • Thailand has high levels of air pollution. Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. Check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index .
  • Medical tourism is common. Avoid discount and uncertified medical establishments. Their standards can be poor. Research medical service providers and choose with care.

Full travel advice:  Health

  • Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.
  • Commercial surrogacy is illegal. E-cigarettes, e-baraku, vaporisers and refills are illegal. Smoking on some beaches is illegal. Travel without carrying identification is illegal.
  • Penalties for breaking the law can apply to anyone aged under 18 years. Penalties for children can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.
  • Thailand has the death penalty for serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder and rape. Crimes against the state and offences against the monarchy can also attract the death penalty. Take care not to cause offence about the monarchy, including on social media.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

  • You can get a visa exemption for up to 30 days if you arrive through one of the international airports or for up to 15 days if you enter through a land border (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year). Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Thailand or see the  Thai government's Facebook page  for the latest details. 
  • You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry, and restrictions may change at short notice. Check with your airline, the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or the nearest Thai Embassy for the latest information. 
  • You can transit between international flights in Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport . Ensure that your connecting flight is booked on the same itinerary and ticket. You must remain in the transiting area in the airport.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

  • The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
  • For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy, Bangkok , the  Australian Consulate-General, Phuket  or the Passport and Notarial Services, Chiang Mai .
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, security situation .

The security situation can be unpredictable in Thailand.  Large protests have occurred in Bangkok and other areas. In previous years, large political protests and government crowd control operations have resulted in violence.

More incidents are possible.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

  • avoid demonstrations, processions and public gatherings
  • follow media and other sources
  • take official warnings seriously
  • follow the advice of local authorities
  • If you see a suspicious package, stay clear and report it to Police

More information:

  • Demonstrations and civil unrest

Thailand-Cambodia border

Thailand and Cambodia have an ongoing border dispute. There's a risk of landmines and unexploded weapons near the Thai-Cambodian border area.

Be extra careful at tourist areas, including:

  • the Preah Vihear temple - Khao Pra Viharn in Thailand
  • the Ta Kwai temple - Ta Krabei in Cambodia
  • the Ta Muen Thom temple - Ta Moan in Cambodia

Tourist attractions and border crossings in this area may close with little or no notice.

Thailand-Myanmar border

Fighting and armed theft can occur along the Thai-Myanmar border. This includes:

  • fighting between the Burmese military and armed ethnic opposition groups
  • clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups, such as drug traffickers

Armed clashes between the military and opposition groups inside Myanmar may lead to border closures.

If you try to cross the border illegally, you may be detained and deported.

Bandits may target you if you travel through national parks in this border region.

If you travel to this region:

  • monitor the news
  • watch out for other signs of unrest
  • pay close attention to your personal security

Thailand-Malaysia border

Reconsider your need to travel to or from the three most southern provinces:

Violence includes attacks and bombings, with deaths and injuries. Since 2004, over 6500 people have been killed and many more injured in these provinces.

Bombings are often coordinated to target people who respond to the first explosion.

Over the past few years, multiple coordinated explosions have occurred in the southern border provinces, and low-level insurgent activity continues.  

If you travel to or stay in these provinces, you could get caught up in violence directed at others.

Attacks can happen at any time.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Attacks, including bombings, are possible anytime. They can happen anywhere, including Bangkok and Phuket.

Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.

Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays.

In August 2016, around 24 incidents with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), arson and other suspicious events killed 4 people and injured over 30.

Some IEDs were detonated in popular tourist spots, including:

  • Hua Hin, Patong Beach and Loma Park in Phuket
  • Surat Thani

On 10 March 2019, several IEDs exploded in Phatthalung and Satun provinces. No people were killed or injured. 

IED incidents have occurred in Bangkok and other tourist areas in recent years. On 2 August 2019, a series of explosions occurred in public places throughout Bangkok, including near Chong Nonsi BTS Station and outside several Thai Government buildings.

In May 2017, attacks at a Bangkok Military Hospital and the National Theatre injured 26 people.

Possible targets for future attacks include:

  • shopping malls, markets and banks
  • hotels and beach resorts
  • restaurants, bars and nightclubs
  • schools and places of worship
  • outdoor recreation events

Other targets include public buildings, public transport, airports and sea ports.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack: 

  • have a clear exit plan in case there's a security incident
  • be alert to possible threats
  • report suspicious activity or items to police
  • monitor the media for threats

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Sexual assault and violent crime

Travellers may experience  sexual assault , other  assault  and  robbery .

Be extra careful in tourist spots such as Khao San Road in Bangkok and the night-time entertainment zones in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Be aware of drink-spiking. Don't drink homemade or local cocktails. They can contain narcotics or poison. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Never leave your drink unattended.

Stick with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

Get urgent medical attention if you think you or someone else has been drugged.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get immediate medical attention.

Under Thai law, courts will only accept the results of a medical examination from some government hospitals. After you've been examined by a government hospital, you can receive medical attention at a private hospital. Please contact the Australian Embassy Bangkok, Consulate-General Phuket, Consulate Chang Mai or Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra for assistance.

  • Partying safely

Petty crime

Money and passports have been stolen from budget hotel and hostel rooms, and from bags on public transport. Thieves also target luggage stored on trains and below buses.

Bags have been snatched by thieves on motorcycles, or sliced open with razor blades. 

To reduce your risk of theft:

  • don't leave valuables in luggage stowed under buses or away from you on trains
  • be wary of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
  • hold bags and backpacks in front of you

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for:

  • scuba diving
  • elephant safaris
  • bungee jumping

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

  • check if your travel insurance policy covers it
  • ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
  • always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Thailand experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

  • earthquakes

Severe weather events are likely to disrupt transport, electricity and communications.

To stay safe during severe weather:

  • check media and weather reports
  • check in with your tour operator
  • don't enter areas affected by flooding or landslides

If there is a natural disaster:

  • secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
  • keep in contact with friends and family
  • monitor the media and other local sources of information
  • Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Storms and floods

Severe storms and widespread seasonal flooding can occur without warning. This includes flash floods.

The wet season in north and central Thailand is from May to October.

In Koh Samui and the south-east of the peninsula, the wet season is from November to March.

  • Thai Meteorological Department
  • Mekong River Commission  — flood levels for the Mekong River

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes occur in Thailand.

Tsunamis are more likely in Thailand because of the risk of earthquakes. 

Check with the  US Tsunami Warning Centre  for updates on seismic activity and tsunamis.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

  • feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
  • feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
  • see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
  • hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

If you're visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires COVID-19 testing (RAT or PCR test) for entry, you'll need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand. The insurance will need to provide cover for COVID-19 treatment.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

  • what activities and care your policy covers, including in terms of health and travel disruptions
  • that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Thailand. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Get medical advice before buying medicine in Thailand. Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

  • what the medication is
  • your required dosage
  • that it's for personal use
  • Medications

Health risks

Insect-borne illnesses.

Zika virus  is a risk in Thailand. If you are pregnant, defer non-essential travel to affected areas. Speak to your doctor before you travel. Several cases have been reported, including in Bangkok.

The Department of Health's  Zika virus bulletin  has advice for all travellers on how to reduce Zika virus risks. There's no vaccine for Zika virus.

Malaria  is a risk throughout the year in rural areas. The worst affected areas are near the borders with Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. 

Dengue  occurs in Thailand. It's common during the rainy season:

  • November to March in Koh Samui and the south-east of Thailand
  • May to October in the rest of Thailand, including Phuket

Dengue peaks in July and August although it is prevalent throughout the year . There's no vaccine or specific treatment for dengue.

Other insect-borne diseases include:

  • chikungunya
  • Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

  • make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
  • use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
  • consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
  • get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis
  • Infectious diseases

Animals in parts of Thailand can carry  rabies .

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

  • other animals

Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys, even if you're encouraged to.

If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible.

Smoke haze and air pollution

Thailand has high levels of air pollution. It can reach hazardous levels. Bangkok and Chiang Mai can be particularly bad. 

Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. 

Smoke haze is an issue across the north and north-east of Thailand from March to April.

Check air quality levels on the  World Air Quality Index .

Get advice from your doctor before you travel. 

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities varies . 

In an emergency, we recommend you contact an ambulance on 1669.

Private hospitals in major cities have high standards of medical care. Services can be limited in other areas.

Hospitals and doctors often need to confirm your insurance before they'll treat you, even in an emergency. Otherwise you may need to pay cash up-front. Costs can be very high.

Hospitals in Bangkok and other large cities can treat serious illnesses and accidents. In other areas, you may need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Decompression chambers are located near popular dive sites in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic and sex-change operations, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical establishments can be poor. Serious and life-threatening complications can result.

Some hospitals and clinics have refused to compensate patients:

  • who aren't satisfied with the results of cosmetic surgery
  • who are harmed during surgery
  • who die during surgery

Do your research. Choose your medical service providers with care.

Don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed , the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

Possession of even small quantities of drugs for recreational purposes can lead to long jail sentences and deportation.

Thai authorities may conduct spot-checks for illegal drugs in tourist areas.

Travellers have been targeted for narcotic tests. Under Thai law, authorities have the right to demand urine samples from people suspected of taking illegal drugs.

If you're asked to submit a urine sample, ask to do it at a police station. You can also ask to contact the Tourist Police. Call 1155 for English-speaking officers.

Private recreational use of cannabis is legal if the THC content is below 0.2% in weight. Cannabis use in public places remains illegal, and smoking outside is considered a public nuisance, and offenders risk fines and arrest. It is still illegal to sell or supply any extracts of cannabis containing more than 0.2% of THC.

Follow directions from local authorities.

  • Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy is illegal.

  • Going overseas for international surrogacy
  • Going overseas to adopt a child

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes, e-baraku, and other related vaporisers, including refills, are prohibited. You can't import or transfer them through Thailand, even for personal use.

Producing or selling these items is illegal. You face either 10 years of imprisonment or a fine up to THB1 million, or both.

Penalties for breaking the law can be severe.

These penalties can also apply to anyone aged under 18 years who is subject to Thai juvenile judicial processes. Penalties can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.

The death penalty can apply to:

  • attempted murder
  • crimes against the state, including treason
  • some offences against the monarchy

Insulting the monarchy, or defacing images of the monarchy - including on a bank note bearing the King's image - can lead to prison terms of up to 15 years.

Take care not to cause offence when posting, commenting or liking items about the monarchy, including on social media.

In Thailand, it's illegal to:

  • travel without carrying identification
  • gamble - other than at a few major race tracks
  • make a false statement to police, including about an insurance claim

It is also illegal to smoke on beaches in tourist areas, including:

  • Prachuap Khiri Khan

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

  • Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Thai-Australian dual nationals may be liable to complete military conscription.

If you're a dual national, contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Thailand  before you travel.

  • Dual nationals

Local customs

Respect local customs and take care to not offend. Deliberately ignoring local customs can cause grave offence.

Do not show the soles of your feet or touch the top of a person's head. These are insulting in Thai culture.

If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australian tourists can get a visa exemption for:

  • up to 30 days, if you arrive through one of the international airports
  • up to 15 days, if you enter through a land border (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year)

For longer stays, or if you're travelling for reasons other than tourism, you'll need to apply for a visa before you travel.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or consulate of Thailand, the  Royal Thai Embassy Canberra  or Royal Thai Consulate-General Sydney . See  the official website of the Tourism Authority of Thailand  for the latest details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Visas overstays

If you overstay your visa, you'll need to pay a fine before you can leave. You can also be:

  • banned from re-entering Thailand

Thai authorities can blacklist you, which means you can never return to Thailand.

Penalties for not paying the fine include long prison sentences. Conditions at Immigration Detention Centres are harsh.

  • Thai Immigration Bureau

Border measures

International passengers can transit Suvarnabhumi Airport , Bangkok.

You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry. Clarify entry requirements with your airline,  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or your nearest Thai Embassy. 

Travellers are responsible for all COVID-19 treatment expenses if their medical insurance does not provide adequate coverage for COVID-19 illness. 

Departure from Thailand

Travellers should refer to the relevant airline or travel provider for information about departing Thailand. 

  • Royal Thai Embassy , Canberra
  • Thai government's Facebook page

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Don't give your passport to third parties - like a jet ski or motorcycle rental businesses - as a guarantee. Companies may hold on to the passport and ask for payment for damages.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

  • In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
  • If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

  • LGBTI travellers

The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).

You can convert Australian dollars for THB in tourist areas, major cities and towns.

ATMs are available in cities and regional centres.

Most hotels, restaurants and higher-end shops accept international credit cards.

Card skimming occurs. See  Safety

Local travel

Driver's permit.

To drive a car or motorcycle in Thailand, you'll need a valid Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.

To drive a motorbike, you'll need a valid motorcycle licence. Some rental companies will tell you otherwise.

You are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Don't drive any vehicles not covered by your Australian licence.

The  Department of Land Transport  issues Thai driver’s licences. Contact them to confirm:

  • your eligibility
  • what documents you need to apply

The legal driving age in Thailand is 18.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Thailand than in Australia.

Thailand has one of the highest traffic-related fatality rates in the world. Motorcyclists are most at risk.

Road accidents are common, including in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. 

Driving in Thailand is dangerous due to:

  • reckless passing
  • ignoring traffic laws

Be extra careful during holidays, such as Songkran (Thai New Year). Alcohol use and congestion are worse during these times.

Don't drink and drive.

If you're walking, use overhead walkways. Look in both directions before crossing streets, even at marked crossways.

  • Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Under Thai law, motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet. However, hire companies or motorcycle taxis rarely provide helmets. You may need to shop around to hire a helmet.

Australians are regularly injured or die in motorbike accidents in Thailand. Alcohol is often involved.

If you're in an accident, police may detain or arrest you until compensation is agreed. This can often cost 1000s of dollars.

Many vehicle hire companies don't have insurance.

If you have a motorcycle accident, you could be responsible for any damages, loss or costs associated with injury to others. The embassy can't help you negotiate on compensation demands.

Lawyers who can represent you are available from:

  • Australian Embassy and Consulates-General in Thailand
  • the Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

If you plan to hire a motorbike, make sure:

  • your insurance policy covers it
  • you have a valid motorcycle licence
  • the hiring company has comprehensive and third-party insurance
  • you know the excess you would need to pay if you have an accident
  • you always wear a helmet

Don't drink and drive, or drink and ride.

Never give your passport as a deposit or guarantee.

Taxis, tuktuks and motorcycle taxis

Official, metered taxis are generally safe and convenient. Be alert to possible  scams  and safety risks.

Be aware of apparently friendly taxi or tuktuk drivers who offer you cheap tours. They will take you to shops where they receive a commission. You may be overcharged or sold worthless goods or gems.

Before you get in an unmetered taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi, agree on the fare and the route.

Make sure your bags are secure when you're travelling in a tuktuk or motorcycle taxi.

Never put yourself in danger by confronting a taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi driver. Call the Tourist Police on 1155 if you need help. 

Be careful when opening taxi doors. Look out for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

Ferry and speedboat travel can be dangerous. Serious incidents involving tourists have occurred and people have died.

If you plan on  travelling by boat  or ferry:

  • check safety standards are in place
  • check there is enough safety equipment for everyone
  • wear your life jacket at all times
  • avoid travelling after dark
  • don't get on overcrowded boats

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Thailand's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Bangkok

181 Wireless Road Lumphini, Pathumwan Bangkok, Thailand. 10330 Phone: (+66 2) 344 6300 Fax: (+66 2) 344 6593 Website:  thailand.embassy.gov.au   Email: [email protected]   Facebook:  Australia in Thailand Twitter:  @AusAmbBKK

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Phuket

6th Floor CCM Complex 77/77 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Road (Bypass Road) Muang Phuket, Thailand, 83000 Phone: (+66 76) 317 700 Fax: (+66 76) 317 743 Website:  phuket.consulate.gov.au E-mail:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia

""

Travelling to Thailand?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Update January 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

  • Travel Advisories |
  • Contact Us |
  • MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Thailand - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

  • Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces due to  civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Thailand.

If you decide to travel to Thailand:

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Thailand.
  • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla Provinces – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests by a domestic insurgency continues to affect security in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. In Songkhla, the insurgency is most active in the districts of Chana, Thepha, Nathawat, and Saba Yoi. U.S. citizens are at risk of death or injury due to the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in public places.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months from date of entry required

One page is required per entry stamp; please note endorsement pages are not considered blank passport page

No, if your stay is less than 30 days

Yellow fever may be required if arriving from certain countries with yellow fever

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Bangkok 95 Wireless Road Bangkok 10330 Thailand Telephone: + (66) (2) 205-4049, 02-205-4049 (within Thailand) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(66) (2) 205-4000, 02-205-4000 (within Thailand) Fax: +(66) (2) 205-4103, 02-205-4103 (within Thailand) Email:   [email protected]

CONSULATE 

U.S. Consulate General Chiang Mai 387 Witchayanond Road Chiang Mai 50300 Thailand Telephone: +(66) (53) 107-777, 053-107-777 (within Thailand) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(66) 81-881-1878, 081-881-1878 (within Thailand) Fax: +(66) (53) 252-633, 053-252-633 (within Thailand) Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Royal Thai Embassy website for the most current visa information.

  • U.S. citizen tourists entering Thailand for fewer than 30 days do not require a visa.
  • We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival in Thailand to avoid possible denied entry.
  • Thai immigration officials or airline staff may ask for your onward/return ticket.
  • Business travelers, U.S. government employees travelling on official business, teachers, retirees, and those planning to stay longer than 30 days should check with the  Royal Thai Embassy about visa requirements .
  • If you overstay your visa, you will be fined. Depending on the length of overstay, you may also be arrested, detained, deported at your own expense, and banned from re-entering Thailand.

We strongly recommend you carry a copy of your U.S. passport identification page and current Thai visa to help avoid detention by the Thai immigration police.

Thailand’s entry/exit information is subject to change without notice. For the most current information, please see  The Royal Thai Police Immigration Bureau .

You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the  CDC website . 

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Thailand. However, these restrictions are generally not enforced. Please verify this information with the Royal Thai Embassy before you travel.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
  • Places of worship
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Periodic acts of violence in Thailand remain a concern.  In August 2019, several small explosions and related arson events occurred in various locations throughout Bangkok resulting in no deaths but some injuries and minor property damage. Several small-scale bombings occurred near some tourist locations in the far Southern provinces in August 2016 and December 2018. In August 2015, an explosion near the Erawan Shrine in downtown Bangkok killed at least 20 people and injured more than 100. The U.S. Department of State assesses there is a continued risk of terrorism in Southeast Asia, including in Thailand.

If a protest or demonstration is expected to pass near the U.S. Embassy or Consulate facilities,  Embassy and Consulate entrances and functions may be restricted. The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok’s  website ,  Facebook,  and  Twitter  sites and the U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai’s  website ,  Facebook , and  Twitter  sites post information about local events that may affect Embassy functions. Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security and safety messages.

Far Southern Thailand:  Periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests by a domestic insurgency continues to affect security in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. U.S. citizens are at risk of death or injury due to the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in public places. Martial law is in force in this region.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces. Travel to this region by U.S government employees must be reviewed and approved in advance. For more information on terrorist threats against U.S. citizens worldwide and steps to take as a result of these threats, please see the  Worldwide Caution .

  • Crimes of opportunity,  such as pick-pocketing, bag-snatching, and burglary, occur in Thailand.
  • Violent crimes  against foreigners are relatively rare. However, murders, rapes, and assaults against foreigners do occur.
  • Sexually motivated violence,  committed by either Thai citizens or foreigners, is most likely to occur after time spent at bars, clubs, and parties, on beaches, or in remote/isolated areas. The Thai police response will differ from an investigation in the United States; investigating officials have publicly discredited people who have reported being the victim of crimes . In addition to making a report at the police jurisdiction in which the crime occurred, we advise contacting the Embassy and engaging a local attorney if you are a victim of an assault.
  • When traveling alone,  exercise caution, stay near other travelers, and ensure friends or family know how to contact you.
  • Taxi and “tuk-tuk”  drivers may attempt to charge excessive fares or refuse passengers. You should either request the driver use the meter or agree on the fare beforehand.
  • At the airport  use only public transportation from the airport’s official pick-up area, cars from the limousine counters, or a car from your hotel.
  • Rental scams  do occur in Thailand. Many rental motorbike, jet ski, and car companies will hold your passport until you pay for real or fictitious damages. We advise against using your passport as collateral.
  • Exorbitant bar tab scams  occur in Thailand. Some bars and entertainment venues will charge exorbitant prices for drinks or unadvertised cover charges and threaten violence if you don’t pay.
  • Other scams  involving gems, city tours, entertainment venues, and credit cards are common, especially in tourist areas.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Thailand. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

  • Romance/Online dating
  • Money transfers
  • Grandparent/Relative targeting
  • Free Trip/Luggage
  • Work permits/job offers

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of crime are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by calling 191 or the Tourist Police at 1155 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +66 (0) 2-205-4049 or Consulate at +(66) (53) 107-777. Remember that only local officials have the authority to investigate and to prosecute a crime.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by calling 191 or the Tourist Police at 1155 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +66 (0) 2-205-4049 or Consulate at +(66) (53) 107-777. Remember that only local officials have the authority to investigate and to prosecute a crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • Help you find appropriate medical care
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
  • Provide a list of local attorneys
  • Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Conditions at the Bangkok Immigration Detention Center (IDC):  Conditions in immigration detention centers (IDCs) where authorities detain foreign nationals who violate immigration laws remain poor and most are overcrowded. IDCs, administered by the Immigration Police Bureau, which reports to the Royal Thai Police (RTP), are not subject to many of the regulations that govern the regular prison system. U.S. citizen detainees often complain of stark, austere living conditions, overcrowding, and unhealthy conditions. Personal security is poor. In addition, the main IDC in Bangkok does not dependably provide adequate medical or mental health care. In 2019, two U.S. citizens died while in custody at the Bangkok IDC. Deportations are self-funded and it may take up to two weeks for Thai authorities to process a case before deportation. Detainees must have funds to purchase a phone card and do not have access to the internet. Prior approval and a security escort are required to visit a Western Union or an ATM machine.

  • Please see the  Immigration Act B.E. 1979  for more information about Thai Immigration violations.
  • Please see the  Department of State’s Report on Human Rights Practices for Thailand  for further information.

Lèse majesté (Royal Insult):  Thais hold the monarchy in the highest regard. Making a critical or defamatory comment about the royal family is punishable by a prison sentence of up to 15 years per offense. As an example, purposely tearing Thai bank notes, which carry an image of the King, may be considered a lèse majesté offense.

  • Prostitution is illegal in Thailand.  Serious consequences include criminal conviction and imprisonment, particularly in the case of child prostitution. 
  • Commercial surrogacy is banned.
  • Personal use of even non-lethal military equipment, such as protective vests and night vision scopes, is prohibited.
  • Illegal drugs  carry severe penalties. Expect long jail sentences under harsh conditions, heavy fines, or even execution for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs.
  • Shoplifting  can result in large fines and lengthy detention followed by deportation.
  • Domestic Issues:  Local police are reluctant to become involved in domestic issues. You may call the Family Services Emergency hotline by dialing 1300 from any Thai phone.
  • Possessing counterfeit or pirated goods is a crime in Thailand.  For more information see the  intellectual property section of the U.S. Department of Justice website .

Customs  may enforce strict regulations on Buddha images, firearms, bullets and/or bullet casings, bullet-proof vests, night vision devices and other para-military type equipment, explosives, drugs, radios, books, and recordings, which might be cultural property and/or considered harmful to the public interest.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
  • Human Rights Report – see country reports
  • Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no known legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Thailand. However, LGBTI groups report that in the case of sexual crimes, police tend to downplay sexual abuse claims from LGBTI victims.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance. Sidewalks and street crossings are not suitable for travelers with mobility issues. Newly constructed buildings, facilities, and transportation equipment should be accessible by law for persons with mobility issues. However, enforcement of these provisions is not uniform.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: Some victims of sexual assault or domestic violence find that Thai authorities do not handle such cases with as much sensitivity or consideration for privacy as they would expect in the United States. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Ambulance services are:

  • not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except for Bangkok and other major cities.
  • Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Medical treatment  is generally adequate in Thailand’s urban areas. In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya, good facilities exist for routine, long-term, and emergency health care. Basic medical care is available in rural areas, but English-speaking providers are rare.

Medical tourism  is an established and rapidly growing industry. You should consult with your local physician before traveling and also  refer to information on medical tourism from CDC.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medicine for personal use  is allowed as long as the amount does not exceed a 30-day supply and you bring the medicine with you. Do not mail medicine to Thailand without first confirming it will be allowed into the country.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with  Thailand Customs  and the  Thailand Food and Drug Administration  to ensure the medication is legal in Thailand. Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

The following diseases are present:

  • Chikungunya
  • Japanese encephalitis
  • Tuberculosis:
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Melioidosis         

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  The air quality in Thailand varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons, but seasonal smog is a problem. In recent years the air quality in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Lampang, Nan, and Samut Sakhon have exceeded Thai and U.S. government daily standards for fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) for a portion of the year. In Chiang Mai and other northern provinces, annual agricultural burning, approximately February through late April, and forest fires cause days with unhealthy to hazardous air quality based on the U.S. index. In Bangkok environs, airborne dust and auto pollutants are prevalent in the cooler, dry period (December-February). Anyone who travels where pollution levels are high is at risk. People at the greatest risk from air pollution exposure include:

  • Infants, children, and teens
  • People over 65 years of age
  • People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
  • People with heart disease
  • People who work or are active outdoors

For Bangkok and Chiang Mai, U.S. Mission Thailand is reporting the U.S. EPA’s Air Quality Index (AQI) calculated from PM2.5 data captured by monitors owned and maintained by the Royal Thai Government. The information and advice on health protection measures to take is available

Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

  • Adequate health facilities are available in Bangkok and other major cities but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
  • Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.
  • Medical staff at public hospitals may speak little or no English.
  • Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
  • Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

  • Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.
  • We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
  • Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Thailand.
  • Although Thailand has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Thailand, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Pharmaceuticals:

  • Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

  • If you are considering traveling to Thailand to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
  • Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Thailand, subject to complex local regulation. For additional information, visit the Government of Thailand’s website for information on foreigner surrogacy.
  • If you decide to pursue parenthood in Thailand via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Water Quality:

  • In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

  • Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

COVID-19 Testing: For the most current list of COVID-19 testing locations in Thailand approved by the Ministry of Public Health, please visit:  http://service.dmsc.moph.go.th/labscovid19 .  Testing is paid for by U.S. citizens.

The Ministry of Public Health provides a list of 44 laboratories approved to conduct COVID-19 testing found  here .

Please Note : Same-day Covid-19 testing is available at most private hospitals throughout Thailand.  Please reference this list of testing locations and contact the provider directly to inquire about COVID-19 testing options, scheduling, cost, and other information.

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Thailand.   According to Thai authorities, both private and public hospitals are providing COVID-19 vaccines. More information on a list of hospitals in Thailand is available  here .

The Bang Rak Vaccination and Health Center, the Institute of Dermatology, and the Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute are currently providing free bivalent vaccines to non-Thai citizens on a walk-in basis.

Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

  • Traffic accidents are common in Thailand.  According to the  World Health Organization , in 2018, Thailand had one of the world’s highest traffic-related fatality rates. Bangkok and some parts of Chiang Mai have heavy traffic.
  • Reckless driving:  Speeding, reckless passing, and failure to obey other traffic laws are common in all regions of Thailand. Traffic moves on the left. Some drivers move illegally against the traffic. Scooters and motorbikes commonly drive on the sidewalks during rush hour and other periods of heavy traffic. Commercial drivers commonly consume alcohol, amphetamines, and other stimulants.
  • Accidents involving motorcycles can be deadly . Riders may incur serious injuries when they are not wearing helmets or proper clothing and footwear. According to the World Health Organization, in 2016, 74 percent of traffic fatalities involved riders of 2-and 3-wheeled vehicles. Use of motorcycle helmets is mandatory, but this law is sporadically enforced. 
  • Use a pedestrian bridge  to cross the road where one is available, including in front of the U.S. Embassy on Wireless Road and on Sukhumvit Road, where many pedestrians have been killed and several U.S. citizens seriously injured. Look carefully in both directions before crossing streets, even when using a marked crosswalk. 
  • If you have a traffic accident,  you should contact your insurance company for guidance in dealing with the other party and the police.
  • Emergency vehicles:  Congested roads and a scarcity of ambulances can make it difficult for accident victims to receive timely medical attention

Traffic Laws:

  • Driving under influence is punishable by law . If you are found to be intoxicated, you could be jailed for a minimum of two years and subject to a fine.
  • Bribes are illegal.  If you are found guilty, you could be imprisoned up to five years, face severe fines, or both.
  • Lack of ID.
  • Not obeying traffic laws and traffic signals.
  • Driving slowly in regular lanes of traffic.
  • If you are involved in a traffic accident, you should contact your auto insurance company for guidance . 

Public Transportation:

  • Mass transit:  In Bangkok, the BTS elevated "Skytrain," “Airport Rail Link” mass transit, and the underground MRT systems are reliable, inexpensive, air conditioned, and often faster than Bangkok traffic.
  • Bus system:  Bangkok also has an extensive bus system, but buses can be overcrowded and are often driven with little or no regard for passenger safety.
  • For hire vehicles:  Cities outside of Bangkok typically have only rudimentary public transportation and usually do not have metered taxis. In many cases, motorcycle taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycle-powered rickshaws, and pick-up trucks will be the only options available for travelers without their own transport.
  • Smartphone-based for-hire vehicle service  exist in Bangkok and other large cities. Those affiliated with registered taxis, such as Grab Taxi, Line Taxi, and All Thai Taxi are legal, but their affiliated car services are under legal review.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Thailand’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Thailand should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Thailand . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, thailand map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

  • KAYAK for Business NEW

Thailand Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Thailand

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended in public spaces.

Thailand entry details and exceptions

Documents & additional resources, ready to travel, find flights to thailand, find stays in thailand, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Thailand from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

Can I travel to Thailand if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Thailand without restrictions.

Can I travel to Thailand without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Thailand without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Thailand?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Thailand.

Can I travel to Thailand without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Thailand?

Mask usage in Thailand is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Thailand?

Restaurants in Thailand are open. Bars in Thailand are .

17 things you need to know before visiting Thailand

Joe Bindloss

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

Young woman traveler with backpack traveling into beautiful pagoda in Wat Pra Kaew.

Thailand is one of the easiest places to travel in Asia, but there are some top tips that first-time visitors should know © Witthaya Prasongsin / Getty Images

Thailand has a deserved reputation as one of the easiest places to travel in Asia. There’s an amazing amount to see , hassles are limited, English-language signs and menus are commonplace, and you can get around easily at almost any time of day or night. 

However, there are a few things every traveler should know. Here are our top tips for making the most of your trip. 

1. Rainy season varies depending on where you are

The June to October rainy season brings heavy showers and regular storms to northern, central and southwestern Thailand, creating dangerous conditions for travel by sea. The southeast coast and the Gulf of Thailand get soaked slightly later, from October to December. 

Rainy-season travel means lower prices and smaller crowds, but some accommodations close and many island ferries stop running, including services to the Tarutao archipelago . If this is when you decide to visit, you'll definitely want to pack some kind of wet weather gear.

2. Check for recommended vaccinations

You’ve probably already been jabbed for COVID-19, but most doctors also recommend vaccination against tetanus and hepatitis A. Also consider a rabies shot – dogs, cats and monkeys can all carry the viral disease. Malaria is present along the borders with Laos , Cambodia , Myanmar and Malaysia . If you visit these regions, use anti-malarial prophylaxis such as atovaquone/proguanil or doxycycline. 

3. Sensible travelers to Thailand book ahead

If you have your heart set on a particular boat journey, train trip, trek, tour or boutique stay, book ahead for the busy tourist season from November to March or during any religious holiday. During the rainy season, call or email ahead to check if places are open.

4. Follow local etiquette when meeting Thai people

When meeting locals in Thailand, the standard greeting is the wai – a respectful dip of the head with the hands held palms together in front of the chest. Don’t shake hands unless the other person initiates the handshake. If you get invited into a Thai home, remove your shoes before you enter and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person. 

A woman wearing clothes that cover her shoulders walks along a wall of golden buddhas in a Thai temple

5. Be respectful of Buddhism, a part of everyday life in Thailand 

Some 95% of Thais are Buddhist, and the national religion weaves through every aspect of life. To show proper respect, remove footwear before entering any Buddhist structure, and wear clothing that covers the shoulders, upper arms and upper legs. 

Never point the soles of your feet towards any Buddhist image (or monk), and don’t touch Buddha statues on the head. Give way to monks when walking on footpaths, and don’t sit next to them on public transport. It is also taboo for a woman to touch a monk or their belongings.

6. Dress modestly

Thai women and men usually avoid revealing outfits that show off a lot of skin. Swimsuits are fine for the beach, but away from the sand, throw on a sarong or fisher's pants, plus something that covers the shoulders if you visit religious sites. Topless or nude sunbathing is frowned upon and can attract unwanted attention.

7. Show respect for the king and royal family

The Thais take respect for the monarchy extremely seriously, and lèse-majesté (maligning the royal family) is a criminal offense. Never show disrespect towards the monarch or depictions of the royal family (including on money). 

8. Know what to expect at the dining table

When dining out in Thailand, everything tends to arrive on the table at the same time, usually placed in the middle of the table for everyone to share. Thailand abandoned chopsticks in the 19th century. You’ll get a spoon and fork but no knife – but most dishes come as bite-sized morsels, so you won’t need one. Sticky rice is usually bundled up into balls and eaten with the fingers. 

Asian family enjoy eating food on street food restaurant with crowd of people at Yaowarat road, Bangkok

9. Vegetarian is a relative term in Thailand 

Fish sauce, oyster sauce and egg are widely used as cooking ingredients in Thailand. The safest bet for people who don't eat fish or meat is to seek out Indian-owned vegetarian restaurants, or restaurants serving kin jay Buddhist cuisine. If in doubt, ask the person making the food if it is jay  – the term ​​ mang sa wirat just means food that doesn’t contain pieces of meat or fish but doesn't mean it's necessarily suitable for vegetarians. 

10. Health risks include stomach bugs, mosquito bites and rabies

The most common trouble travelers face in Thailand is trip-spoiling stomach bugs. Never drink tap water, wash your hands before eating, stick to busy eating establishments and be cautious of ice, unwashed or unpeeled fruit and uncooked vegetables. If you become unwell, seek out private hospitals in larger cities rather than public hospitals.

Mosquito bites can easily become infected in Thailand’s tropical climate. Bring mosquito repellent, and use mosquito nets (or bring your own). Rabies is another risk – always seek medical attention if you are bitten by a dog, cat or monkey. 

11. Smart travelers steer clear of drugs in Thailand 

In June 2022,  marijuana and hemp were removed from the Category 5 narcotics list in Thailand. However, there are still restrictions and smoking marijuana in public is not recommended.

Crossing borders with Class A drugs carries the death penalty, and even the possession of small quantities can bring a hefty prison sentence – it’s really not worth the risk. Also note that smoking in public can attract heavy fines. If you take any prescription medicines, check that these are allowed into Thailand before you travel. 

A driver in a blue and white tuk-tuk, picking up a passenger

12. Prices may well be inflated for tourists

In general, Thailand is hassle-free, but tourists are often charged inflated prices for tuk-tuks and unmetered taxi rides – ask a local how much journeys should cost and use that as a yardstick for a fair fare. 

Major tourist sites are popular stalking grounds for cab drivers and touts who will try to steer you towards dubious souvenir shops, fake "tourist offices" and second-rate places to stay, where you’ll inevitably pay more to cover their commission. Book transport directly with the operators to avoid dodgy deals from unscrupulous travel agents. 

13. You may be approached by sex workers

Thailand’s sex industry may find you whether you want it to or not. Single male travelers (and even couples) can expect to be approached by sex workers or touts drumming up business, so be ready with a firm refusal. 

Be aware that some bars, restaurants and karaoke venues are fronts for sex work – warning signs include red or pink strip lights, large numbers of skimpily dressed female staff and lots of foreign male customers.

14. Political protests can be tense and are best avoided 

Thailand can have a lot of protests. When tensions flare up between the government and opposition groups, it can lead to blockades, flight cancellations and sometimes violence. Monitor local news sites such as the Nation for information on simmering political troubles, and avoid protests and other potential flash points.

15. Some governments advise against travel in Thailand’s south 

The far south of Thailand, along the Malaysian border, has been wracked by a separatist insurgency since the 1940s. Most foreign governments advise against travel to the districts of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and parts of Songkhla.  

16. Be very cautious when riding a scooter

Thousands of travelers rent a scooter or motorcycle in Thailand, but make sure your home driving license covers you for any vehicle you hire, and carry your passport (or a copy of the ID pages) in case the police ask for it.

Wear a helmet, ride cautiously and make sure the rental comes with liability insurance – every year, hundreds of tourists are injured in motorcycle and scooter accidents in Thailand. Always give way to larger vehicles, and watch out for livestock, potholes and other hazards on the road. 

17. Follow local advice if there's a natural disaster

Thailand is vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as flooding, landslides and cyclones during the rainy season. Heed official advice in the event of a natural disaster, and contact your embassy for up-to-the-minute information on evacuation procedures. 

This article was first published January 2022 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

Rower using her feet to row a boat along the Ngo Dong River at the Tam Coc between giant karst mountains.

Mar 14, 2024 • 10 min read

Whether it's bus, train, private car, motorcycle, bike, plane or boat, you can plan your trip around Vietnam with this guide to getting around.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Feb 24, 2024 • 8 min read

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

1290933961

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Jan 3, 2024 • 5 min read

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Ayutthaya, Buddha statues in a row in Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, mother and daughter in front of a Buddha statue.

Dec 16, 2023 • 9 min read

where-to-go-februaryjpg.jpg

Dec 15, 2023 • 7 min read

Ubud, Indonesia - March 08, 2016: Indonesian food vendor hides from the rain under the ​umbrella of his stall on the street of Kuta, Bali, Indonesia on March 08, 2016

Dec 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Is Thailand Safe for Travelers in 2024?

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Is Thailand safe to visit? This stellar destination is not only full of adventure — it's also quite safe for travelers. Some locals helped us put together this guide to staying safe in Thailand. 

Looking for insider info on safety in Thailand?   Work with a local   for on-the-ground access as you plan your trip.   Learn more . 

Table of Contents: Is Thailand Safe?

What to know about covid in thailand, in general, thailand is a safe country for travelers, there are some regions you’ll want to avoid, watch out for petty theft, don’t count on taking an uber, thailand is great for solo female travelers, just be informed before you go, bangkok isn’t as crazy or dangerous as you’ve seen in the movies, you should be up to date on your vaccines.

  • Risk of malaria in Thailand is super low

Don’t drink the tap water

But you don’t need to be scared of street food, there are tons of family-friendly destinations in thailand, what to do in case of an emergency, connect with a local.

Thailand is ready to welcome visitors back for tourism, but there are still entry requirements. Effective January 9, 2023 through at least the end of the month, all visitors must show proof of vaccination or proof of recovery from COVID within the six months prior to travel. Proof of health insurance is also required if you would need negative RT-PCR COVID test results to re-enter your country of departure. 

Still have questions? Get in touch with a local in Thailand . 

Train station Is Thailand Safe

Is Thailand safe? Yes! In fact, Thailand is rated as the least dangerous country in Southeast Asia for travelers.

There is a history of social unrest and violent conflicts in parts of the country, but crimes in tourist areas are  rare. As long as you exercise standard travel safety precautions (like staying alert, keeping an eye on your belongings, etc.) you’ll have nothing to worry about. 

It’s important to remember that Thailand is still classified as a developing economy . That doesn’t mean it’s unsafe, only that you should make careful decisions— a Thai local can help you pick out the best hotels, restaurants, and transportation so you know you’re in good hands. 

Here’s the thing, guys: we love to tell people to get off the beaten path while they’re traveling, but there’s a limit. Don’t go into the dangerous parts of Thailand—just don’t!

According to the U.S. Department of State , the areas to avoid in Thailand right now are the Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces. Those provinces cover the southern tip of Thailand, and they’re currently awash in ethnic and racial conflicts. 

So, it’s not cool or hipster to get caught in a violent protest. Stick to those gorgeous northern regions that everyone visits, and you’ll have a great, safe time. 

Shrine Is Thailand Safe

Petty theft like pickpocketing is a concern for travelers all over the world, but it’s especially prevalent in urban Thailand. You should keep your most important belongings (passport, electronics, etc.) in a secure place and only carry what you need day-by-day. 

We don’t recommend wearing a loose purse or backpack, especially in a crowded area. A secure money belt can be a great option to hold onto your cash and phone. 

Be careful with public transportation

Public transportation scams are another common issue. Taking a taxi or tuk tuk—a small three-wheeled cart—is a safe way to get around in Thai cities, but some drivers will rack up charges by taking you the long way around or not using a meter.

Avoid common transportation scams by getting a taxi through a reputable company ( plan your trip with a Thai local to choose the best ones) and mapping out your route before you get in the car. 

As of April last year, there is no more Uber in Thailand . We know, if you’re a millennial who’s relied on Uber your whole life, that’s a scary prospect—but don’t panic. There is a ridesharing app specific to Southeast Asia called Grab . It works exactly like Uber, and you can find it in all the major cities.

A Grab is more expensive than a taxi or tuk tuk, but it’s also more reliable.

Even though travel in Thailand can be a little sketchier than travel in Europe, it is definitely the best destination in Southeast Asia for a solo female traveler. You’ll find tons of other travelers and can even stay in all-female hostels throughout your trip.

That said, we do encourage you to be prepared and travel smart. A woman on her own is, unfortunately, at higher risk of harassment or assault than a man, so it’s important to know how to keep yourself and your belongings safe.

Check out these tips for staying safe as a woman traveling alone , then get in touch with a Thai local to plan your trip and stick to the best spots. A confident, smart traveler should have no problem navigating Thailand on her own!

Thailand’s bustling capital has a reputation of being a mysterious, crazy city (consider The Hangover II ), but that’s not necessarily the case. As long as you avoid rougher parts of the city—for example, Patpong, the red light district— Bangkok is a safe and intriguing destination. 

The main danger in Bangkok is traffic. Avoid walking on the streets, and only use reputable taxi companies. We’d recommend taking the overhead skytrain whenever you can—it’s super convenient and zooms right over those chaotic streets. 

Pro tip: The best way to see the city safely is to have a local plan your trip —they’ll tell you exactly where to go and what to avoid. 

There are a few vaccines recommended by the CDC for travelers to Thailand in addition to routine vaccinations. Here are the most important ones: 

  • COVID-19: Thailand, like most countries, has seen many cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
  • Hepatitis A: Hep. A can be contracted through contaminated food or water, and symptoms last for up to a month—it could really ruin your trip, so having the vaccination is the safest choice. 
  • Hepatitis B: This disease is contracted through bodily fluids or blood. Are you getting a tattoo in Thailand? If so, better safe than sorry. 
  • Typhoid: Kind of like Hepatitis A, you can get Typhoid through bad food or water. The vaccine is recommended for all travelers. 

Risk of malaria in Thailand is super low 

Although malaria is present in parts of Thailand (mainly along the eastern border and in rural, forested areas) your chances of contracting it are super-duper low . Still, there is no harm in taking anti-malaria tablets while you’re there, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season—June through October is when the climate is wettest and mosquitoes are most present. 

If you don’t want to take any medication, you should protect yourself in the evenings with long sleeves and a strong bug spray. 

The best way to avoid food poisoning while you’re in Thailand is to never drink water straight from the tap. Tap water—even in your hotel or resort—can carry nasty bacteria that could hold you back from enjoying your trip. You can boil or purify your drinking water yourself, or just stick to bottled water. 

Ice is generally made from purified water, not tap, so you don’t need to worry about ordering a drink with ice in a restaurant. 

Street Food Is Thailand Safe

Street food is an awesome part of Thai culture. Whether you’re in Bangkok, Phuket, or any other major city, you’ll find vendors selling delicious treats everywhere you go. A lot of travelers worry about getting sick from street food, but in most cases it’s actually super fresh, and you can watch it being made right in front of you. 

Just to be sure, here are a few tips for eating street food safely : 

  • Don’t eat anything that has been sitting out—make sure you watch it being made
  • Look for stalls with long lines—they are probably more established and safe
  • Avoid raw fruits and vegetables
  • Use hand sanitizer before you eat

With those precautions you can feel confident enjoying street food in Thailand— ask your Thai local about the best districts and stalls for a local specialty!

You shouldn’t be afraid to bring the whole family to Thailand! There are tons of coastal resorts and hotels that are great for kids. Phuket is really popular with families—there are resorts all around the island that offer kids’ classes and babysitting services. In Koh Chang, you can rent a bungalow right on the beach, and be surrounded by other traveling families while you’re there.

If you have experienced any kind of emergency in Thailand (arrest, injury or serious illness) and need assistance, your best bet is to call the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok : 02-205-4000 . 

They can help with legal and passport issues, direct you to the closest hospital or police station, or even help you get back home if you need to. 

Local Is Thailand Safe

Thailand is an up-and-coming travel destination—it’s gorgeous, affordable, and great for backpackers or families. As long as you take basic precautions to keep yourself safe and happy, you’ll have an amazing trip!

Of course, you don’t have to take our word for it. Get connected with a Thai local who can tell you all the ins and outs of safe travel in Thailand and pack your trip full of hidden gems—they’ll even be available 24/7 to answer your questions while you’re traveling. 

Don’t travel blindly— connect with a local to plan your trip. They’ll design an authentic, immersive itinerary and will even provide 24/7 phone support in case you run into issues. Learn more . 

  • Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
  • Transportation in Thailand: A Guide
  • The Best Places to Visit in Thailand
  • Top Things to Do in Thailand in 2024
  • Where to Stay in Thailand?
  • Contact Us  

undefined

Looking for more info?

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Thailand Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

  • Packing List

After Your Trip

Map - Thailand

There are no notices currently in effect for Thailand.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (influenza)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Thailand.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Thailand. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Thailand.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

  • Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
  • Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
  • Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

  • Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
  • Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Thailand take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Thailand.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Thailand. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Thailand, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

  • Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
  • Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
  • Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Thailand. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

  • Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
  • Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
  • Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
  • Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

  • Mosquito bite
  • Avoid Bug Bites
  • Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

  • Sand fly bite
  • An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

  • Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
  • Avoid domestic and wild poultry
  • Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
  • Bite from an infected rodent
  • Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
  • Avoid rodents and areas where they live
  • Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

  • Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Thailand, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

  • Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
  • Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
  • Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
  • Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Thailand. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanone
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Thailand—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Thailand include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Thailand. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Thailand’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Thailand. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Thailand may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Thailand, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Thailand, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Thailand .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Thailand.

  • Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
  • LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Thailand, dial 1669 for an ambulance, 199 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Thailand before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Thailand from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Thailand for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

  • Adobe PDF file
  • Microsoft PowerPoint file
  • Microsoft Word file
  • Microsoft Excel file
  • Audio/Video file
  • Apple Quicktime file
  • RealPlayer file
  • Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
  • Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
  • You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
  • CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Thailand

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Thailand.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the following due to regular terrorist attacks:

  • Pattani province
  • Yala province
  • Narathiwat province
  • Southern Songkhla province, except for the areas north of and including the A43 road between Hat Yai and Sakom; and the areas north-west of the train line which runs between Hat Yai and Padang Besar
  • Hat Yai to Padang Besar train line, which was attacked in 2022

Martial law is in place in most areas in these provinces, which means security forces have greater security enforcement and investigative powers.

However, terrorist attacks could take place anywhere in Thailand. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Targets might include:

  • security forces
  • government offices
  • shops and supermarkets
  • transport infrastructure

Recent attacks include:

  • in 2019, there were a number of small explosions in Bangkok Satun City, and Phatthalung province in the south of Thailand
  • in 2018, there was a series of small explosions on Samila beach in Songkhla City

Political situation

The political situation can be unpredictable and has led to periods of civil and political unrest. Avoid protests, political gatherings, demonstrations and marches.

Personal ID

Police may ask to check your passport. If you do not have it with you, you could be arrested.

Reporting a crime

Report any crime to the Thai police before you leave Thailand. Your case may not be investigated if you try to report it later.

Local authorities, including the police, may pass details of a crime, including photos, to the media without a person’s consent.

Protecting your belongings

You should:

  • be aware of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially thieves on motorbikes
  • take care when travelling in open transport like tut-tuts
  • keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • avoid sleeping on buses and trains – people have had items taken from bags while asleep

Keep hold of your passport. Don’t hand it over as a guarantee, for example to motorcycle or jet ski rental businesses. Companies may hold on to passports against claimed damage.

Violent crime

Violent crime, including gun crime, rarely involves tourists. However several foreign nationals were victims of gun violence in Bangkok in 2018. Take care when travelling in unfamiliar areas and avoid walking through isolated areas alone, especially at night.

Sexual assault

Violent sexual assaults and unprovoked attacks can happen in tourist areas across Thailand. Attacks are most common during full moon parties or similar events, and near bars late at night.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking and drug-assisted sexual assault does happen in tourist areas around Thailand, with male and female victims. Do not leave your drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers.

Be drink aware

Drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. Alcohol and drugs can make you less alert and less aware of your environment. This can make you more vulnerable to accidents, injuries, robbery and assaults.

Be aware of credit card fraud. Do not lose sight of your card during transactions. There have been incidents of ATM skimming. Use an ATM in a bank and always protect your PIN.

Be wary of job offers that appear too good to be true. People have arrived in Thailand and been illegally transported to neighbouring countries on the promise of high-paying jobs, which turn out to be scams. When you re-enter Thailand you may then be detained while your immigration status is validated.

There have been incidents of:

  • passports confiscated by scammers
  • victims being held in poor living conditions
  • coercion into undertaking wider online scamming activity
  • pressure to make large payments to be released from sham jobs

Detention facilities

Conditions in prisons and other detention facilities in Thailand are harsh, with limited access to healthcare. Detainees have died in custody.

Laws and cultural differences

You should be aware of differences between UK and Thai law and local customs.

The British Embassy in Bangkok has a video on what to be aware of when living or travelling in Thailand:

  • Facebook – visiting Thailand video
  • Twitter – visiting Thailand video

Criticising the Thai monarchy

Criticising the Thai monarchy (lèse-majesté) is illegal. The law can be interpreted broadly and carries a long jail sentence. British and Thai journalists, human rights defenders, and members of the public have faced charges for raising concerns, making political comments, sharing articles online that could been seen as negative towards Thailand, or making accusations about individuals.

Posting images on social media

Posting images on social media of people drinking alcohol or wearing clothing considered inappropriate can be illegal. Both the person who uploaded the images and the people in them could be fined or imprisoned.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

While cigarettes are common, you could be fined up to 5,000 Thai baht for smoking them in public. E-cigarettes are illegal. You could be fined or imprisoned for using them.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Thailand has strict laws against drug use, possession and trafficking. Possessing small quantities of illegal substances can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment. Possessing Class A drugs can lead to the death penalty.

Private recreational use of cannabis is legal if the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content is below 0.2% by weight. Cannabis use in public places is illegal. The Ministry of Public Health has made it legal to grow, use, distribute and sell cannabis products, but this has not been enshrined in law so some restrictions may remain. Check with the local authorities if you are unsure.

See more information on usage, and registration for distributing or selling cannabis, on PR Thai Government (Thai Ministry of Public Health) .

Some British nationals have suffered severe psychiatric problems because of drug use, sometimes leading to suicide.

While cannabis is legal in Thailand in certain circumstances, be aware of the next place you are travelling to, where it may be illegal. This includes residual amounts, for example in bags, clothing or blood.

Under UK law, cannabis remains a Class B drug, and it is illegal to take cannabis into the UK.

LGBT+ travellers

Thailand is generally a safe place for LGBT+ travellers.

Thailand has no legislation on same-sex marriage. Same-sex marriages are not legally recognised. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a license . Ivory trade is banned.

Buying property in Thailand

Buying property in Thailand is not straightforward. Make sure you understand local laws and consult a lawyer before making financial commitments. British people have been victims of property scams.

Outdoor activities

Elephant treks.

Elephant treks can be dangerous, especially if elephants are mistreated or not handled properly. Use a reliable, licensed tour guide. British nationals have been seriously injured and killed because handlers have lost control of the elephant.

Swimming safely

Take care when swimming off coastal areas, especially during monsoon season. People have drowned in strong riptides. You should:

  • follow warning signs, especially red flags
  • only swim from approved beaches, with flags

Jellyfish can swim close to the shore, particularly during the rainy season. Jellyfish stings can be fatal. Take local advice from hotel management and dive centres.

Take care when swimming, diving, kayaking or white water rafting in rivers or close to waterfalls, particularly in the rainy season. Currents can be extremely strong.

Diving schools and rescue service standards are not always as high as in the UK. Check the dive operator’s credentials and make sure you’re covered by your insurance.

If you’ve had no previous diving experience:

  • ask your dive operator to explain what cover they offer before signing up
  • check safety equipment is available on the boat

Check that they have appropriate plans in place for emergencies, including their ability to get assistance to evacuate divers to the nearest hyperbaric chamber.

Transport risks

Road traffic accidents.

Thailand has a high number of road traffic accidents, particularly with motorcycles. The World Health Organisation (WHO) ranks Thailand as one of the world’s deadliest countries for fatalities on motorcycles .

Licenses and permits

Apply for a Thai driving licence or, if you already hold a UK licence, an International Driving Permit .

If you drive a car or ride a motorcycle in Thailand without a valid licence, it could invalidate your travel insurance if you have an accident or injury.

Car and motorcycle hire

Motorcycles and scooters for hire in beach resorts are often unregistered and cannot be used legally on a public road. Before you hire a vehicle, make sure you’re covered by your travel insurance and check the small print of the lease agreement.

Do not hand over your passport as a guarantee against returning a motorcycle or scooter.

By law, you must wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.

Lots of passenger boat services operate between the mainland and islands. Boats can sink or collide, which has led to fatalities, including of British nationals. Accidents are usually due to:

  • overloading
  • poor maintenance
  • rough seas, particularly during monsoon season

Travellers with limited mobility

Wheelchair access is often limited across Thailand due to uneven paving, obstacles and a lack of facilities such as lifts and ramps. This includes public transport systems. Many taxis have limited storage space for wheelchairs.

See FCDO advice on disability and travelling abroad .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Rainy season.

The rainy season is generally from May to October. In Koh Samui and the south east of Thailand it is from November to March. However, the rainy season has been more unpredictable recently.

Heavy storms cause disruption including flooding and landslides. Lakes, caves and waterfalls are particularly at risk of dangerous flash flooding.

Follow the Thai Meteorological Department for weather warnings.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes and tremors can happen in Northern Thailand.

Earthquake Track lists recent activity.

See the US Federal Emergency Management Agency for what to do in an earthquake.

Related content

Is this page useful.

  • Yes this page is useful
  • No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

  • Meet the Team
  • Work with Us
  • Czech Republic
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Scandinavia
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Budget Travel
  • Work & Travel
  • The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
  • Travel Resources
  • How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Travel Safety

Is Thailand Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Thailand has long been the classic backpacker destination. For years now, travelers of all sorts have traveled their way around this mystifying country and it’s honestly not hard to see why: stunning beaches, tropical islands, incredible food, fun cities. It’s a paradise.

But there’s often trouble in paradise. We hear about scams as the country gets more popular with regular tourists and even instances of violence. You may be wondering,  “Ok, so is Thailand safe?”  – and we don’t blame you.

In this guide, we’ll be covering pretty much every safety question that could come to your find. From food to renting a bike and even solo-travel.

So if you’re concerned about staying safe on your Thailand holiday, don’t worry – we’ve got your back. Whatever it is, our Thailand travel advice will have you covered.

tips to save money in Thailand

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Fast Answer: How Safe is Thailand?

About this thailand safety guide, is thailand safe to visit right now, safest places in thailand, 23 top safety tips for traveling to thailand, is it safe to travel to thailand alone, is thailand safe for solo female travelers, common scams in thailand, more on safety in thailand, faq about staying safe in thailand, so, is thailand dangerous.

Overall, Thailand is a very safe travel destination for tourists. The country is relatively stable and prosperous and Thai culture is welcoming of visitors. Crime against tourists is relatively rare and visitors to Thailand can pretty much relax and enjoy themselves.

Most travellers who get into trouble in Thailand kind of play some part on their own downfall via misadventure. Drunken driving accidents are not unheard of, and frequenting the wrong neighbourhoods in search of “forbidden pleasures’ can go awry.

That said, tropical disease is a concern and most travellers will at the least find themselves visiting the toilet more frequently than they may do at home. Scams are also pretty commonplace although often this will simply mean an inflated taxi fare rather than anything outrageously malign.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Thailand Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Thailand. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, and practice common sense, you will have a safe trip to Thailand.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Safety In Thailand – An Overview

Thailand is backpacker central and the most visited country in Southeast Asia. But that doesn’t mean it comes without issues. There’s drug trafficking, there’s terrorism, there’s petty theft and tourist scams (like everywhere), unpredictable protests, and a militant government in power on top of that.

That’s not all – there are diseases like Zika virus, tropical nature to contend with (say hi to the odd snake), and severe weather. Not to mention the horrible bike accidents. There’s a whole lot of stuff that could go wrong, and staying safe in Thailand could be more serious than you thought.

All of that may sound scary but, at the end of the day, most trips to Thailand go swimmingly. By many standards, Thailand is pretty safe for tourists. Tourism contributes a HUGE deal to the Thai economy and the government pretty much has your back.

Let’s get into the facts of Thailand’s safety…

is thailand safe guide

Thailand is basically the jewel in the crown of Southeast Asian tourism . 6% of its economy is made up of tourism, making it a major contribution to keeping this country going. There are many awesome areas to stay in Thailand , with each place ranking differently on the safety scale.

That being said, more tourism brings unique dangers – not exactly “dangers” but things to be wary of. These come in the form of scams: tailoring, tours, gems. Scams are the most reported crimes in Thailand.

Take our travel advice: keeping your wits about you and not accepting things from strangers is pretty much a good rule of thumb.

We’re going to dive deeper into that in just a moment.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Thailand, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Thailand below.

Chaing Mai is a fairly large city in Northern Thailand. Both a tourist destination as well as a fantastic choice for people looking to base themselves in Thailand, it’s got something for everybody! You can spend a whole day wandering from temple to temple, being dazzled by all the gold, stones, statues, and artwork. There are also heaps of co-working spaces, cool cafes, and an accessible infrastructure making it a solid destination for digital nomads.

Chiang Mai is not as busy and hectic as other cities in Thailand which makes it one of the safest places to visit. In fact, there’s a pretty large expat community here that you can easily connect with. Thanks to its location in the mountainous part of the country, the city offers authentic culture, stunning nature and great city life. 

The only threat you’ll have to face when visiting pai is getting stuck here because it’s just too beautiful and laid-back. Many travellers end up visiting Pai multiple times during their travels in Thailand because this place is truly special! It has that wonderful, magical, sticky quality that so many traveler hubs do: the one that sends the itineraries of backpackers in Thailand out the window.

Pai is a small mountain village in the North of Thailand. While you might not get white-sand beaches, you can enjoy incredible nature, breathtaking views and an atmosphere that feels almost timeless.  There’s caves, waterfalls, hot springs, and everything in between waiting for you to explore. There’s also a great yoga scene there, if you’re looking to nama-stay in Pai!

Koh Samui is packed with things to do! How does stand up paddle-boarding at sunset sound? How about swimming in the Namuang Waterfall? Or hiking around the untouched jungle? You can also do an ATV Tour around the island if you’re not in the mood to trek through the jungles on foot! Koh Samui won’t disappoint your adrenaline needs!

It’s a unique place with a surprisingly good infrastructure. On top of that, you get everything from trekking through the jungle to relax on secluded beaches. Koh Samui is perfect for swimming as it has warm, calm waters. It is also a great place to try scuba diving or to get scuba certified, for those who are keen on exploring the underwater world!

Places to avoid in Thailand

Unfortunately, not all places in Thailand are safe. You need to be careful and aware of your surroundings pretty much anywhere you go in the world, and the same goes for visiting Thailand.

According to the government, there are four regions that should be avoided since they have relatively high crime rates, including violent crimes: 

They’re located in the South of Thailand. Another place you should avoid is Sungai Kolok, the crossing in Malaysia. Any border regions should be travelled to with a bit more caution, simply because there might be tension or more military presence. However, tourists usually don’t end up there anyway as there’s hardly anything to see. 

Of course, staying away from dark side streets and walking around secluded areas at night is a no-brainer. Use your common sense here – if something feels off or lets your alarm bells ring, avoid it! 

It’s important to know that Thailand is not the safest country, so a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will always go a long way. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, read on for our insider Thailand travel tips . Stick to those and you won’t have a single issue in Thailand.

Thailand Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

is thailand safe to travel to

It may be generally safe to travel around Thailand, but there’s no end to how careful you can actually be. To make sure you really do travel as safe as possible , here’s a list of our travel advice for staying safe in Thailand.

  • Make sure your vaccines are checked and up-to-date   –  seems simple, but boy would you save yourself a BIG headache (literally)!
  • Don’t drink tap water – this rule pretty much goes for every Asian country.
  • Don’t hop on any old moped  – make sure you’re renting off someone with good reviews or you could end up in a bad way.
  • Pack right for Thailand – never forget about the essentials!
  • DON’T insult the Thai king or royal family  – lèse-majesté laws mean it’s literally illegal. You can serve prison time.
  • Don’t buy Buddha images – you’ll need a special license to ‘export’ them.
  • Have copies of important docs copied – you don’t need to carry them around, but in case you lose something it helps.
  • Watch your back at the Full Moon Parties – ok it’s a time for fun, but getting completely senseless can lead to BAD situations.
  • Be wary about taking drinks from strangers  – many date rapes occur this way, especially on the Thai islands.
  • Know where you’re going when you get in a taxi  – Bangkok taxi drivers are notoriously poor.
  • Carry a small amount of cash when you go out – if something happens it’s a small loss. Opt for getting your hands on a moneybelt to keep your cash safe!
  • Be aware of air pollution if you’ve got asthma – check air quality in Chiang Mai or Bangkok, mainly in March/April.
  • Definitely, don’t get involved in protests – don’t even get CLOSE; you could get injured, arrested, deported, or worse.
  • We’d recommend that you don’t feed monkeys – they may seem cute (to some) but they’re vicious and greedy!
  • Be aware of riptides, especially in monsoon season  – the tropical seas look beautiful, but they can be seriously deadly.
  • Be careful of what you share online – sharing articles that portray Thailand negatively can get you arrested (for example, BBC articles that ‘defame’ the royal family are blocked).
  • Watch your bags if you’re on a tuk-tuk or motorbike  – people can and do swoop by and snatch ’em right away.
  • Wear a helmet when you ride a motorbike – a) it’s a legal requirement, and b) it could save your life.
  • Don’t give your passport as insurance/guarantee  – if you end up magically breaking whatever it is you’re renting, how will you get it back?
  • Know your (drink) limits  – those buckets are STRONG. Be sensible.
  • Be aware of the sex trade  – even if you’re tempted, we’d recommend not. Human trafficking is a real issue in Thailand and you never know WHO or WHAT you’re really funding…
  • Only use OFFICIAL borders  – crossing over into Burma, Cambodia, Laos, or Malaysia unofficially is not only illegal, it’s also extremely dangerous – there are still unexploded ordinances here from old conflicts.
  • Don’t ride the elephants  – a) it could be dangerous (people have died) and b) those ellies are most likely abused.

If you follow our safety tips, you’ll get to properly enjoy the wonder that is Thailand. At the end of the day, it’s all about being smart as you go about your travels.

Is Thailand safe to travel alone?

If you’re traveling to Thailand by yourself, don’t worry: thousands of others have done it before you. It’s totally doable!

Being alone shouldn’t be an overly stressful situation. To help you out, we’ve got a few clever tips to keep in mind to make Thailand safe to travel alone in.

  • Meet other travelers. This is crucial to beating the “solo traveling blues” and to finding people to make your time even more memorable. Staying in Thailand’s numerous hostels are a great way to meet backpackers and like-minded travel buddies.
  • Thailand has no shortage of tours and this is a two-birds-with-one-stone scenario: you get to experience some amazing culture/nature AND meet people in the process. Start off with a food tour in Bangkok to get the ideas flowing!
  • As gratifying as it can be to meet other people, don’t go home with strangers. They could be a lot stranger than you think.
  • Let someone close to you know where you are every couple of days – it could make a difference.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Thai people are super friendly and will do what they can to help. From a punctured motorbike tire to simple directions, you’ll be surprised at just how nice people can be.

There are so many incredible places to visit in Thailand  and things to see and experience. It’s so traveler-friendly that you’ll probably end up having the best – and safest – time ever. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful!

Is Thailand safe for solo female travelers?

Thailand may be safe to travel in, overall, but backpacking AND being female comes with its own special warning. Women are often the recipients of “special” attention and are often more appealing targets for would-be criminals. Unfortunate, but true.

We believe that Thailand IS safe for solo female travelers. Just to be on the safe side, here are a few pointers to make sure you stay safe while you’re at it.

  • You can opt to stay in female only dorms in hostels. These are not only a nice place to stay (away from potentially creepy guys) but a great opportunity to get to know other female travelers of all types and ages.
  • You might want to wear as little as possible since it’s hot in Thailand! But remember this is a Buddhist culture: locals rarely dress like this. Avoid the wrong sort of attention and keep respectful.
  • The island of Koh Tao, in particular, seems to suffer from more disappearances and mysterious deaths than usual – if you plan on visiting,  do your research.
  • As soon as you arrive at the airport in Thailand, get a sim card . This is a good way to keep in touch with people you meet, to track tuk-tuk and taxi rides, and to check reviews for hostels and guesthouses that you haven’t booked in advance. No-brainer.
  • Learn a little bit of Thai. It goes down well, but it is by no means required.
  • Keep your wits about you when it comes to other travelers. Make friends but stay away from people who seem weird – they probably are.
  • Don’t do drugs. Sorry to be a downer but this puts you at risk and you can literally be jailed if you have them on your person.
  • Seems odd but honestly stay away from monks! They’re not allowed to talk with, touch/be touched by or be in the vicinity of females!
  • On a night out be confident and act like you know your surroundings. Make sure you keep enough cash with you to get you back to your hostel safely.

On the whole, Thailand is the ideal place for solo female travelers. There’s less harassment than many other destinations – even than in Europe – people are super friendly, the hostels are amazing, transportation is easy, and there are loads of other backpackers to meet. What’s not to like?

One of the sad realities of travel is that tourists everywhere are magnets for scammers and professional con-men (OK 2022 you win, con-persons) . Thailand is well known for scammers targeting foreigners with schemes ranging from the annoying, to the terrifying. Lets take a look at some of Thailands favourite scams;

Sunken boat

The Damaged Boat Scam – If you rent a boat, check it carefully for cracks and dents. It is not uncommon for owners to point to old damage claiming you have damaged it, and have to pay. The same goes for rental bikes.

Tour Booking Scam – Some tour agencies will take your money for a tour and then try jack up the price, ie, when you get to the national park or museum they claim your admission was not included the tour price.

Fake Romance Scam – Thailand is a notorious destination for lonely western men seeking love in all of its forms and this is all too often exploited. If you find yourself a local Thai beau, good for you but please be very wary as to how genuine the relationship is espeially when (not if but when) they start asking you for money.

Fake Jewels Scam – If you are not an expert on jewels and gemstones, simply stay out of the market. It is very common for Thai dealers to flog crappy stones or even glass to unsuspecting tourists claiming that they are valuable wares.

Note that there are way too many scams to list them all here so just be very thorough and careful in all financial dealings and beware of overtly friendly strangers. That said, the chances of been targeted by a scam are significantly lower once you get OUT of tourist hubs.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Thailand.

Is it safe to travel to Thailand for families?

Previously a backpacker-only zone for some reason, Thailand is now visited by all kinds of people! The country’s infrastructure and tourism industry have completely boomed in recent years and now, more than ever, everyone is traveling to Thailand. Over 20 million if we’re talking in numbers!

If you’re thinking of taking the plunge with your family and experiencing something incredible together, then don’t worry: Thailand is totally safe to travel for families.

Is Thailand safe to travel for families?

Thailand is a top-recommended place to go with families. Thai people absolutely love children and you’ll get a lot of good, positive attention. Besides, there are so many amazing destinations to visit with your children.

If you’re worried about your children being exposed to debaucherous backpacker bars and to Khaosan Road (etc. etc.) then just stay away from areas. There are plenty of child-friendly places in Bangkok and the rest of the country.

Is it safe to drive in Thailand?

Self-driving is a common way of getting around in Thailand. In fact, it’s almost odd if you backpack in Thailand and you don’t end up renting a scooter at some point. But it doesn’t come without its risks. Far from it, actually…

73% of all road deaths in Thailand are whilst riding two-or-three-wheeled vehicles.

Is it safe to drive in Thailand?

So if you’re thinking of renting your own scooter, be careful. Since it’s such a motorbike friendly country and so dangerous for motorbikes at the same time, we’re giving you a few tips on how to avoid becoming a statistic.

  • Go with a very well recommended rental company – why risk bad bikes and bad service?
  • Take pictures of the bikes before you head out – you’ll want to be able to prove you didn’t do the damage.
  • Wear a helmet (your passenger, too!) – if the worst does happen you’ll want to protect your noggin’.
  • Get on/off the left side of the bike – getting off the right side is a good way to get your leg burnt on the exhaust!
  • Don’t drink and drive, don’t drug and drive – why would you?
  • Let other drivers see what you’re doing – your intentions will help them not hit you.
  • Don’t be afraid to use the horn – it may be rude in your home country, but it’s just a friendly “here I am!” in Thailand.
  • If you don’t feel 100% confident, just don’t ride- not feeling confident leads to errors of judgment, which is plain dangerous.

You can hire a proper car if you want to avoid bikes altogether. Do your research first, obviously; you’ll need to be over 21 years old and in possession of an international drivers license to do so. These are a good idea for multi-person road trips. Always keep an eye out for those motorbikes – these can come out of nowhere.

Riding your motorbike in Thailand

Driving around on your scooter in the sun sounds like a pretty fun, right? Thailand is known for the streets being filled up with motorbikes and cars, so it can be a bit overwhelming for tourists. But does that mean it’s not safe to ride your bike in Thailand?

As we mentioned above, Thailand is in the top 5 of the “most dangerous countries to drive”. However, since motorbikes are the easiest and fastest way to get around, we still recommend renting one at some point. But only if you  follow the rules .

renting a car in Thailand

Thai people aren’t bad drivers, in fact, they’re masters at staying calm in sketchy situations, especially on the road. To tourists, the streets are chaotic and hectic. If you want to get used to the traffic, you can have a sneak peek on the back of a Grab.

Grab is pretty much like the Asian Uber. Book the driver over the App, and you’ll be able to experience how it’s like to ride a bike in Thailand without being in charge.

When you’re ready to drive on your own, find a trustworthy rental place. You shouldn’t be paying more than 3500 Baht per month, and the scooter should be in good condition (check the brakes!).

The last travel advice: Be aware of your speed, always wear your helmet and don’t be the typical tourist that watches the view more than the actual road – if you want to admire the country, do it on the back of a Grab!

Is Uber safe in Thailand?

Uber has merged with rival Grab in Thailand. But it’s the same amazing service. Uber is very safe in Thailand. You won’t be overcharged, you’ll be able to track your journey, and the drivers are pretty competent.

All you’ll need to do is create a Grab account. Simple as that.

Are taxis safe in Thailand?

Taxis are generally safe in Thailand but sometimes you will be astounded at how bad they are – especially when staying in Bangkok .

Some drivers have absolutely no clue where they are going either. (Have a GPS app ready for this as you may have to become a literal navigator.)

are taxis safe in thailand

The biggest ‘safety’ issue is probably taxi drivers trying to rip you off. It’s not exactly about haggling, they won’t budge; it’s more about just knowing your destination and how much the fare should be, and then asking till you actually find a taxi driver offering a fair price.

The language barrier can be a little hazardous. Ever tried pronouncing  any Thai? What about place names? If not, a good tip is to have a card from your hotel with the address in Thai script for the driver. They’ll understand that and get you back to your place safely.

Then there are motorbike taxis and samlors. These are more common in less urban areas where car taxis are less frequent. They’re good (and fun) if you’re solo traveling in Thailand . Samlors have sidecars, motorbike taxis don’t. The licensed drivers wear orange vests.

Whatever you do, be respectful, considerate and appropriate. Any concerns? We recommend taking a picture of the drivers’ license inside the taxi. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut.

Is public transportation in Thailand safe?

When it comes to public transportation in Thailand, you’re going to have a lot of options – especially when visiting Bangkok . Here you can basically take your pick of the bus, the BTS (Skytrain) or the MRT (metro).

The best thing of all:  public transportation in Thailand is safe, absolutely. As a bonus, it’s super cheap too! You won’t even have to worry about overheating since they’re mercifully air-conditioned.

Is public transportation in Thailand safe?

About the only danger that you’ll have to worry about on either the MRT or BTS is getting lost. The city buses, in particular, are often crowded and it’s not easy to understand the routes. That’s about the only risk.

How could we not mention tuk-tuks? They take you here, there and everywhere! You’ll find them in Bangkok and all over Thailand. The whole country boasts more than 35,000 of these. Some drivers may be oddballs but tuk-tuks are generally safe.

Go on a Tuk-Tuk Trip for a Midnight Snack

Although it seems a bit sketchy, we’d definitely recommend riding a Tuk-Tuk at least once. It’s a crazy experience, especially during rush hour, but it’s absolutely worth it!

Normal buses don’t have air-con. They pick up and drop off people at seemingly random points. They’re cheaper than the VIP buses but they’re also decidedly less about quality and service.

The VIP buses feature aircon, a trustworthy route and they can be booked through your accommodation. They normally offer water too.

Buses often include ferry services as well! This is the only way to get around the Thai islands and booking a combination ticket for a ferry and a bus is a completely stress-free experience.

If you visit Thailand in summer , busses can get hot.

The trains in Thailand are next level and perfect to get around the whole country. The popular backpacking night train that runs between Chiang Mai in the north and Bangkok in the south was a raucous experience – until there was an alcohol ban instated in 2014.

The trains come in three classes – all are clean, only one is very, very comfortable; the other two are varying degrees of bearable. And if you feel like it, or it’s on your itinerary, you can get a sleeper train from Bangkok to Penang in Malaysia. Second class sleeper services feature privacy curtains. You’ll have a blast no matter how you get around the country!

Is the food in Thailand safe?

There’s a huge variety of delicious food on offer, from the  farang favorite of  pad thai to the Thai favorite of  pad kha pao. There’s Burmese style cuisine of the north, the Laos-Thai style of the Isan region, and even Chinese dishes added into the mix.

Is the food in Thailand safe?

And generally speaking, the food in Thailand is safe. Food poisoning can happen, but there are tricks to avoid it.

  • If it’s busy – especially with locals – not only will the food be good, it’s less likely to have sanitation issues.
  • You must try the street food in Thailand! It’s cheap and incredible and there are stalls everywhere. We recommend eating somewhere where you can literally see the food being cooked before your very eyes – germs hate being fried.
  • Does it look clean? If it looks clean, go for it. If it looks grimy, even if it’s popular, there’s always a distinct possibility of catching something.
  • Fruit is good. Fruit can also be very bad since it’s not cooked. Ask for it to be peeled or else peel it yourself before you eat it.
  • A simple way to avoid any food-related illness is simply to  wash your hands!  The issue may not be a part of establishments’ sanitation, but it must be a part of your own!
  • Traveling with an allergy? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy. Keep in mind that store owners and restaurant staff might not know all the foods that contain allergens, so it’s helpful to know the names of some of these too. If you’re gluten-free, pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Thai ingredients in Thai.

At the end of the day, food in Thailand is fine to eat. Thai people love their food and eating out is a perfect way to soak up local life. The food is usually cooked FAST and from fresh ingredients. Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try something new.

Can you drink the water in Thailand?

This is a clear no, and a general rule for pretty much all Asian countries. Stick with water from the convenience store and you’ll be absolutely fine.

Plastic waste is an issue all over the world, so if your accommodation has a water filter use a refillable bottle and refill whenever you’re thirsty.

Trust us: Thailand is hot so you’ll need to be keeping hydrated, especially if you’re doing any sort of outdoor activity. Seriously, don’t be a rookie and forget your water bottle.

Is it safe to live in Thailand?

Do you dream of living in the chilled out nature of Thailand but are worried about how safe Bangkok is to live? Or anywhere in the veritable paradise of Thailand for that matter?

Nowadays it’s more common for young professionals to relocate to Thailand. The cheap living , friendly people and stunning natural landscapes make it a haven for digital nomads, for instance.

It feels genuinely safe. There are low violent crime rates – e.g. theft and murder – meaning you’ll never really feel unsafe.

Thailand is a popular place to teach English and there are a huge amount of TEFL teachers flocking to Thailand each year. Most big cities have an ex-pat community and you’ll make friends easily.

Thailand beach bungalow

The issues that make Thailand feel unsafe to live in are relatively few but they can be biggies. Political corruption can make it feel like you’re living in a lawless land, there’s the risk of terrorist attacks due to the ongoing trouble in the southern provinces, and then there’s an ever-present threat of national unrest, which can lead to (sometimes violent) protests, riots, and clashes between opposing political factions.

Sexual assault and exploitation is also a real issue. There are a few places that are more dangerous than others. Avoid living in or visiting the southern provinces and walking through sketchy areas that could be as sketchy as anywhere in your own country.

Outside of all the issues, Thailand is a wholesome, safe place to live with a healthy expat community to get involved with. Many people that choose to live in Thailand end up living there for a long time. We’re into it!

mockup of a person holding a smartphone in white background with Holafly logo

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Thailand?

Renting an Airbnb in Thailand is a great idea. And it’s perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the country. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see. Local knowledge always goes a long way, so be sure to reach out to your hosts if you’re unsure about how to fill up your Thailand itinerary!

On top of that, you’ll stay safe with the reliable Airbnb booking system. Both hosts and guests can rate each other which creates a very respectful and trustworthy interaction. 

Is Thailand LGBTQ+ friendly?

Thailand and pretty much all major travel destinations within the country are very welcoming and accepting of LGBTQ+ travellers. There is a massive gay scene in Bangkok and Phuket that attracts plenty of visitors each year. In fact, Bangkok ranks as one of the gay-friendliest cities in the world. 

Thailand is super tolerant and open-minded. While you might get funny looks outside of tourist’s hotspots or if you go more towards the rural side, you won’t have to worry about your safety when staying in bigger cities. At least not about discrimination…

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Thailand.

Is Thailand dangerous for tourists?

Thailand can be very safe, depending on how much effort you put into your own safety. If you go looking for trouble, you’ll definitely find it. If you keep your wits about you, use your street smarts and common sense, you’ll most likely have a trouble-free trip.

What should I avoid in Thailand?

Avoid these things to stay safe in Thailand: – Don’t drink tap water – Don’t hop on any old moped – DON’T insult the Thai king or royal family – Don’t buy Buddha images

What are the main safety issues in Thailand?

Thailand has a problem with scams, road safety and pickpocketing. All of these crimes affect tourists the most, however, you can definitely protect yourself from them by using your street smarts and common sense.

Is Thailand safe for female solo travellers?

Female solo travellers have to be a bit more careful when visiting Thailand. Staying away from over-friendly locals or sketchy characters, booking yourself into a female-friendly accommodation and watching your drink on a night out will keep you more than safe.

Final thoughts on the safety of Thailand

Yes, Thailand can be very safe, especially if you keep your wits about you and plan ahead.

Thailand is the most popular country in Southeast Asia and it’s honestly no wonder. A depth of culture, history, mental street food, very nice people, religion, and stunning tropical islands make it a good fit for just about everyone. If that wasn’t enough, all of this comes with the bonus of being both very affordable and very safe.

Of course, like anywhere in the world, bad things can happen. By being sensible, trusting your gut, and not getting into silly situations, you can avoid stuff like this and stay safe in Thailand.

With our insider guide, you’ll now have a bumper crop of travel advice designed exactly for staying safe while you backpacking the heck out of Thailand. You’ll spend less time worrying about what COULD happen and more time enjoying the shit out of yourself.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

Clair Cathryn

Is Thailand Safe Pinterest Image

Share or save this post

promotional sidebar image for booking.com

14 Comments

How can you write this article when overwhelming evidence is of the contrary , you should be ashamed Research deaths of : Nick Pearson, Hannah Witheridge and David Miller , Elise Dallemange , Luke Miller , Christina Annesley , Nick Pearson , Valentina Novozhyonov , Dimitri Povse , that’s just the tip of the iceberg

Not to mention it has the highest number of road accidents of any country in the World . Data recorded from January 1 – February 15, 2023, reveals that 2,099 people in total died in road accidents in Thailand in the first 6 weeks, Of those, 75 were foreigners. Statistics show that 106,133 were injured in road accidents so far this year, 2,886 of which were foreigners. If you don’t believe me , do some research on the amount of deaths on the road and the amount of suspicious ‘suicides’ where not just women are found dead but males have been found at the bottom of swimming pools , mysteriously fall from balconies etc , the list is endless. Solo travelling females are dying at an alarming rate , with the official cause of death ruled ‘accidental’ or ‘suicide’ ? when MURDER was a more accurate cause . The country is run by the Military . The country has widespread corruption where bars and clubs are run by local organized crime gangs and protected by the even more dangerous Police force. Murders are covered up and swept under the carpet to save face and protect the tourist industry. The Police mishandle investigations and cover up crime . Western women are thought of as prostitutes because of Western dress codes. The culture in Thailand is like that of Middle Eastern countries , where if a female dresses like she would at home , as in a bikini , they are thought of as easy , promiscuous and deserving of rape . Get intoxicated and argue about say , tipping , you are very likely to bear the wrath of revenge and might not make it back your hotel down that dark street. Spiked drinks is rampant and if you get drugged , you are lucky if you just get robbed , let alone raped and hit in the head with a spade. Research deaths of : Nick Pearson, Hannah Witheridge and David Miller , Elise Dallemange , Luke Miller , Christina Annesley , Nick Pearson , Valentina Novozhyonov , Dimitri Povse , that’s just the tip of the iceberg

While there has been some terrible events, mainly concentrated to a few places, we need to keep some perspective. In the 5 years prior to Covid, Thailand received between 30-40 million tourists per year. It’s a lot of people coming through the doors. I agree tho, visitors need to try their best to recognise evolving situations they may find them selves in and respect local mores.

By the way, if you pay attention to the number of premeditated murders and the level of crime in general, you will find that among European countries, crime is higher only in Ukraine and Montenegro. Thus, despite the fact that Thailand seems to be safe, in fact, any country in Europe is much safer than Thailand.

I have never once felt unsafe in Thailand or any South East Asian country for that matter. If you’re wondering if one place is safer than another, you’re really not going to get a true answer out of statistics and numbers.

A more interesting question i believe is to what extent am i to be harassed, hounded, pestered, badgered and scammed as a tourist/traveller in a place?

In Thailand a great extent is the answer. I don’t know what it is but Thailand is the winner of this contest in South East Asia and by a long margin too.

From there it then becomes a trade off. Is this place worth going back to, compared to what else is out there? I’d say if you’ve never been to Thailand, do go. But for me i can’t see any reason to go back, as opposed to other places in South East Asia.

Its kind of a trade off, its actually quite easy to get off the tourist trail in Thailand, its a totally different experience to the one you describe but it won’t be as comfortable or as easy as the touristy places, even with the hounding.

While females shouldn’t touch monks, you certainly can speak with them. Many even have cell phones and I have more monk Facebook friends than I imagined I ever would!

Thailand is the leader in the number of motorcyclists who die on the roads. The death toll is about 24 for every 100,000 population. By comparison, England has only 0.6 deaths per 100,000 population. Perhaps there are not that many motorcyclists in England. Nevertheless, I compared these figures with Indonesia, which is the leader in the number of motorcycles in the world. And you know, even in Indonesia the number of motorcyclists killed on the roads is 5-6 times lower than in Thailand.

You will not find a motorbike rental for 500 bt a month, don’t know where you got that price. I have lived in Thailand for 17 years and my Thai wife rents motorbikes, normal fee is 100 to 150bt per day, 1,000bt per week and 3,000bt per month, you can try to bargain, but you will never find a motorbike for 500bt per month. But you will have a great time in The Land of Smiles, such friendly and helpful people.

Big Red — the odd accident in Bangkok?

Thailand has one of the worst death rates in the world, around 5000 motorcyclists die each year on the roads, many in Bangkok.

l`ve spent in total around 8 months in BK ans 6 weeks in Pattaya and love Thailand and its people but the facts are grim !

This is a short list;

Reduce Bangkok’s motorcycle death toll by 82% – add dedicated … thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/reduce-bangkoks… In Bangkok about three quarters of deaths involved motorcycles and motorcyclists and noted that there were 3 million motorbikes on the road around Bangkok. His think-tank at the Engineering Institute of Thailand is proposing motorcycle lanes on major roads as part of a coordinated approach to improve road design and reduce the risk to riders on the city’s roads – a key problem in Thailand. Killer roads: Why Thailand has one of the worst death rates … news.sky.com/story/killer-roads-why-thailand-has… 74% of all Thai road deaths are drivers of two- or three-wheeled vehicles according to WHO’s 2018 report on global road safety. Researchers found only 51% of motorcycle drivers wear helmets, just … Death on Two Wheels: Thailand most lethal nation for … coconuts.co/bangkok/news/death-two-wheels… Almost three quarters of road deaths in Thailand involve motorcycles. Last month, a survey from the World Health Organization (WHO) said that 5,500 motorcycle riders die each year in the country. That equates to almost 15 deaths daily and the number is getting higher, not lower. The shocking statistic makes Thailand the most deadly country in which to get around on two motorized wheels. Motorbike accident deaths: Thailand number one in the world … http://www.samuitimes.com/motorbike-accident-deaths.. . Experts at a conference promoting a motorcycle safety campaign have said that Thailand is number one in motorcycle deaths. On average 5,500 motorcyclists die annually in Thailand and the figures are just going up and up despite measures to try and stop the increase. And the problem is particularly bad among the nation’s youth, reported Manager. Some 2,500 […] Big bike rider decapitated in horror crash in Bangkok | The … thethaiger.com/hot-news/road-deaths/big-bike… At least 6 deaths in Bangkok suspected to be caused by new illicit drug cocktail Thailand’s roads second-deadliest in world, UN agency finds … http://www.bangkokpost.com/learning/work/738124/.. . According to official statistics, 14,059 people were killed on Thai roads and highways in 2012, translating to a road-death rate of 36.2 people per 100,000, a rate only surpassed by war-torn Libya …

Thanks for sharing this. Bangkok’s roads are indeed dangerous and we believe the writer of this post did capture that.

Drive safely!

I’ve lived in Bangkok 4 years and rode a motorbike the whole time .. about 5000km I’m bkk traffic.

At first glance it seems like a free for all. But there is actually order on these seemingly chaotic roads. I find drivers to be more aware of cyclists and motorbikers than in Canada, and other than the odd incident it has been much more pleasant than in Vancouver.

Cars and traffic tend to actually driver slower than I’m used to.. and the cars are smaller too..

The lanes are wider to accomodate motorbikes, much larger than Vancouver …

I’m not saying for a tourist to just jump on a bike in Bangkok .. but on islands or tourist destination scooter rentals are safe.. just have a lisence and drive slow and carefully. Don’t be one of those asshole farang like in Pattaya. Remember.. don’t use front brakes anywhere near the beach.. only rear..

Road trips with a rental car can be fun.. but know that the farther from bkk the crazier the driving gets.. watch out for people overtaking in blind corners … Seriously.. they do that. Watch out..

Most of all.. watch out for minivans and those tuned up diesel Toyota trucks with giant cages overloaded with durian or something .. they drive like psychos .. seriously these two types are most dangerous

Watch your bags if you’re on a tuk-tuk or motorbike – people can and do swoop by and snatch ’em right away.

^^This happened to me in Bangkok. The strap of my bag didn’t break, so I went face first into the ground. Lost 2 of my teeth, damaged my lips and had some cuts and scrapes on my face. There was a car driving behind me right after it happened, and luckily they slammed on the brakes and didn’t hit me. I don’t know if I will ever go back to Thailand, and certainly will never go to Bangkok. On the plus side the staff at the hostel and hospital were all very kind to me.

Very well written, informative and comprehensive article !! Thailand is an amazing country with amazing people and very safe to travel in. l took a taxi on a 100 mile journey on my own when l was 70, l am now 72, and never once felt unsafe. The people there are also very honest, on a table in the restaurant area of the Luis hospital, a woman left her handbag on the table and me, being from the uk, was worried someone might just walk off with it, l watched out for 15 minutes, then she returned, the bag lying just as she had left it. l honestly doubt that would have happened here.

Thailand is very safe. If you’re visiting Bangkok or Pattaya at the moment it would be wise to add an N95 mask to your list though.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Thailand travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:38 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, thailand - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Thailand due to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country.

Southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala - Avoid all travel

Back to top

Southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala

Separatist insurgents periodically perpetrate criminally and politically motivated attacks in the southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala.

These deadly attacks include shootings, bombings and arson, and are usually directed at military, government and security buildings and personnel. They have also occurred in a variety of public places.

Martial law and heavily enhanced security measures are in place in Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, and Sadao District in Songkhla.

Increased enforcement powers allow authorities to:

  • detain suspects without charge
  • conduct searches
  • seize objects or documents
  • impose curfews

You risk becoming a collateral victim of an attack if you travel in these provinces.

Myanmar border areas in the provinces of Mae Hong Son and Tak

Exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to the Thailand–Myanmar border areas in the provinces of Mae Hong Son and Tak.

Occasional violence, banditry and clashes between government forces and drug traffickers occur.

Border crossing points may be closed without notice. Cross at designated border crossing points only, with the required travel documentation.

Preah Vihear Temple area and surrounding border region

Thailand and Cambodia have an ongoing border dispute in the region. There are reports of landmines in the Preah Vihear temple area.

Exercise a high degree of caution if you are travelling to any other Thai–Cambodian border areas.

Political tensions

Political instability in Thailand has created a volatile and unpredictable security environment throughout the country, particularly in Bangkok.

Legal provisions may allow the military to retain and exercise sweeping powers that could include the right to:

  • prevent public gatherings
  • censor media
  • set up checkpoints
  • restrict movement
  • search for weapons
  • exercise force in response to violence

Such measures could be enforced at any time. Some television, radio stations and web sites may be unavailable, and access to social media services may be intermittently suspended.

Petty crime, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing and theft, is common. Thieves sometimes use razors to cut purses and bags open to remove their contents.

  • Don’t leave bags unattended
  • Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and travel documents, are secure at all times, especially in tourist areas, crowded markets and bus or train stations
  • Avoid walking in dark alleys or isolated areas

Thefts occur on cross-country buses and vans. Personal belongings, including passports, have been stolen from luggage compartments under buses, especially on long-distance journeys. Use only reputable transportation companies.

Break-ins occur at budget guesthouses, sometimes while guests are asleep in their rooms.

Be careful at night in entertainment areas throughout the country, including in Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao, particularly during full moon parties, Songkran, and other events in popular tourist locations. Robberies and assaults (including sexual assaults) can occur during these events. Passport thefts and losses are common.

Violent crime against foreigners occurs occasionally.

You should report all criminal incidents to the Thai police in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred before leaving Thailand.

Many Canadians fall victim to a variety of scams while visiting Thailand. You should report all incidents to the tourist police.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Rental scams

Rental companies have at times accused renters of causing damage upon return of the equipment. In some cases, renters who refused to pay were harassed and threatened, and their passports (left as collateral) were withheld. Some companies have also stolen the motorcycle and then claimed compensation from the renter.

Before renting a motorcycle or personal watercraft, read all rental contracts thoroughly to ensure that the vehicle is insured to cover damage and theft. Take photos of existing damage on rented vehicles as proof of pre-existing damage.

You must never use your Canadian passport as collateral for rental. If your passport is inaccessible or stolen because of such a situation, you may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.

Only rent from reputable companies.

Entertainment venues

Some bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence.

  • Confirm the prices before consumption
  • Avoid running a tab
  • Avoid leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff

Travel agencies

When dealing with travel agencies, ensure that the company is a reputable tour organization before providing payment.

Investment fraud

If you plan on buying property or making other investments in Thailand seek legal advice in Canada and Thailand. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Gems and jewellery purchases

In scams involving gems and jewellery, merchants sell lower-quality items at inflated prices with promises that the items can be resold at a profit. The guarantees that merchants offer are not always honoured.

Carefully consider all purchases if you are not knowledgeable about gems and jewellery. The Government of Canada cannot assist in obtaining refunds for purchases made.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect that you have been drugged.

Women’s safety

Sexual assaults against foreign women have occurred. Be particularly vigilant during full moon parties, Songkran, and other events in popular tourist locations.

If you are victim of a sexual assault, you should seek medical attention and report the situation immediately to local authorities and the nearest Canadian office.

Advice for women travellers

There is a threat of terrorism in Thailand. Although infrequent outside of the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala, small-scale bomb attacks have occurred in public places. Further attacks are possible.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Large demonstrations are taking place regularly in Bangkok and across the country. There are social tensions, and demonstrations are likely to continue.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also disrupt traffic and public transportation when they block major roads and intersections and may cause the closure of mass transit stations.

Maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times.

Demonstration sites in Bangkok include:

  • the areas around the Victory Monument
  • Thammasat University
  • the Bangkok Arts and Cultural Centre
  • the Democracy Monument
  • Ratchaprasong intersection

Other areas of the city may also be affected by protests and associated movements. Demonstrations have also taken place in other cities.

  • Avoid military installations and concentrations of security personnel
  • Expect a heightened security presence in several areas
  • Carry identification documents at all time
  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Deaths have occurred due to contact with poisonous jellyfish off Koh Lanta, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi and Phuket.

Riptides in coastal areas can be strong, including in the popular destinations of Cha-am/Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Phuket and Rayong. There have been several deaths due to drowning.

Diving schools and rescue services may not adhere to international standards.

  • Rent water sports equipment only from operators affiliated with major international training organizations
  • Exercise extreme caution when swimming or practising water activities
  • Heed flag warnings and don’t swim when a red flag is displayed
  • If stung by a jellyfish, seek immediate medical assistance

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

If you undertake adventure sports, such as zip-lining, rock climbing, speleology, elephant trekking or parasailing, choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance.

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards. If you have any doubt concerning the safety of the installation or equipment, don’t use them. Ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose.

If engaging in adventure tourism:

  • never do so alone
  • always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
  • buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
  • ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
  • don’t venture off marked trails
  • ensure that you’re properly equipped
  • ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
  • obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out

Chemical pesticide poisoning

There have been cases of poisoning linked to the use of chemical pesticides, including phosphine. Seek immediate medical assistance if you believe that you have been exposed to a chemical pesticide and are experiencing unusual symptoms.

Seek information on whether or not chemical pesticides are used in your accommodations.

Road safety

Accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians are extremely frequent in Thailand.

Hazardous road conditions, adverse weather conditions, local disregard for traffic laws and drunk driving result in frequent accidents.

Some vehicles may drive against the flow of traffic and on the sidewalks, particularly motorcycles.

Drunk driving and accidents are much more frequent around the western New Year (January 1) and Thai New Year (Songkran, mid-April). Be particularly vigilant when driving during these holiday periods.

Slow-moving trucks limit speed and visibility. Avoid driving on mountain roads at night, especially during the rainy season (June to October). Paved roads connect major cities, but most have only two lanes. Some roads can become impassable, particularly during the rainy season.

Pedestrians and cyclists should be particularly careful. You should always use elevated walkways/pedestrian bridges whenever possible, especially in Bangkok.

Motorcycles

Motorcycle accidents are common and are responsible for the majority of road deaths. Rental scooters and motorcycles are often poorly maintained, making them unsafe to their riders and others on the road.

Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders (including passengers), but many helmets don’t meet international safety standards.

Insurance claims could be denied if you were driving without a motorcycle licence.

Avoid driving or riding motorcycles in Thailand, even if you are an experienced motorcyclist

Public transportation

Use licensed taxis from official taxi stands, limousine services or a trusted ride-sharing app.

If arriving by air, arrange to be picked up by hotel shuttle services, use a trusted ride-sharing app, the airport rail-link service or official airport buses.

Unlicensed vehicles (bearing black and white licence plates) are not correctly insured to carry passengers and may not use meters. Many taxis may not be equipped with backseat seatbelts.

Don’t share a taxi with strangers.

Disputes with taxis operators, tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws), etc., occur and have occasionally resulted in violence or intimidation. Should a dispute occur and you feel threatened, seek local police's assistance to settle the matter.

Marine transportation

Passenger boats accidents have occurred due to overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Vessels often lack adequate safety equipment.

Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

In the past, rail lines in the far south have been the targets of sabotage and armed attacks.

Train accidents in recent years have caused injuries and deaths.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Thai authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months upon entry into Thailand.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 30 days  Business visa: required  Student visa: required  Working visa: required

If you’re travelling to Thailand for tourism with a regular Canadian passport, you can obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival.

If you obtain a multiple-entry tourist visa, you can stay for up to 60 days. The visa is valid for 6 months and must be obtained before travelling.

If you wish to stay longer than 60 days or work or study in Thailand, you must obtain the appropriate visa from a Thai embassy or consulate. Local authorities are actively monitoring and enforcing compliance with visa regulations.

Those applying for non-immigrant visas of category "O-A" need to show proof of a valid health insurance meeting specific criteria.

Guidelines Non-Immigrant Visa (O-A) - Thai General Insurance Association

Other entry requirements

Thai Border officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

If you are unable to do so, you may be denied entry.

Entry stamp

You must get an entry stamp from an immigration officer at the point of entry into Thailand. Don’t get your visa, visa extension or entry stamp from visa shops or travel agents in Thailand.

A passport that has been altered or that contains counterfeit visas, and entry/exit stamps is deemed invalid. Offenders can expect jail sentences, fines and deportation, and may also be prohibited from entering Thailand in the future.

Length of stay

The date indicated on your Thai entry stamp determines how long you may stay in the country, even if your visa shows a different date.

All foreigners staying in Thailand longer than 3 months must notify Thailand’s immigration bureau of their residence every 90 days.

The Royal Thai Police perform random visa checks and strict penalties are enforced for overstaying. Canadians overstaying their visa have been arrested and detained until deportation. Deportation procedures are at the foreigner’s own expense and can be lengthy. Detention conditions in immigration detention centres are poor.

If you overstay, regardless of whether you leave Thailand voluntarily or are deported, you may be banned from re-entering Thailand for 1 to 10 years.

Notification of stay longer than 90 days - Thailand’s immigration bureau

Dual citizenship

If you are a dual citizen, you must enter and exit Thailand with the same nationality passport.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
  • Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
  • Mpox (monkeypox): Advice for travellers - 20 February, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

  • travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
  • making multiple trips to endemic areas
  • staying for extended periods in rural areas
  • visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
  • engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

  • visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
  • visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

  • In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

  • visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
  • working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
  • hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
  • working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
  • working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Excellent healthcare is available in major cities, particularly in private hospitals and clinics. Quality of care varies significantly in rural areas.

Establishments may require confirmation of health insurance coverage, a guarantee of payment or an upfront deposit before admitting patients.

Psychiatric or psychological facilities and services in Thailand may not meet international standards. Canadians with mental illness have been committed to state facilities, detained and deported.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Overview of the criminal law system in Thailand

Identification

You must carry identification at all times. Carry a photocopy of your passport bio-data page and Thai visa or entry stamp.

Police may still require that you produce the original document. If you fail to do so, you could be detained.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are very severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or even the death penalty.

Police regularly perform spot checks to search for illegal drugs, particularly in and around entertainment venues. Uniformed or undercover police may conduct physical searches and may screen your belongings. You may be asked to provide a urine sample.

If you carry prescription drugs or other medicines, keep them in clearly marked, original packaging.

Certain prescription drugs are frequently sold without prescription in entertainment areas and coastal resorts, including on the street. You should never buy controlled drugs without prescription or on the street. These may be counterfeit or could contain illegal substances. If you purchase these drugs, you could be subject to scrutiny or detained.

The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20.

It is illegal to promote the consumption of alcohol. You could be fined or taken to court for posting on social media any pictures that include alcoholic beverages or people consuming alcohol.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It is prohibited to import, possess or use e-cigarettes, vaporisers, e-baraku (e-hashish) and their refills. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences of up to 10 years.

A smoking ban is in effect on several beaches across the country and is punishable by a 100,000-baht fine and up to 1 year in prison.

Check with local authorities and look for no-smoking signs before smoking on a beach.

Gambling, with some exceptions, is illegal.

Lèse-majesté

Actions or words that are considered offensive or insulting to the king or the royal family are illegal and may result in criminal prosecution and lengthy prison sentences.

Don’t make any public statement, including online, that could be perceived as critical of:

  • the monarchy
  • the political situation in Thailand
  • the Royal Thai Army

Restricted goods

There are strict regulations regarding the importation and exportation of images of the Buddha, counterfeit goods, pornographic material and other items.

Consult the complete list of restricted and prohibited items before travelling.

Restricted goods - Thai Customs

Feeding fish

Feeding fish in the ocean is illegal and punishable by a 100000-baht fine and up to 1 year in prison.

Do not feed fish in the ocean and avoid boat tour operators who encourage tourists to do so.

Traffic drives on the left.

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in Thailand.

You must carry an international driving permit or a Thai driver’s licence to drive in Thailand.

It is illegal to operate a motorcycle without a valid Thai motorcycle licence or an international driving permit with a motorcycle endorsement.

Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders (including passengers), but many helmets do not meet international safety standards.

Carry your identification card, driver’s licence and vehicle registration book at all times.

International Driving Permit

Housing foreign citizens

All hosts, including hotel staff and homeowners, must notify local authorities that they are housing foreign citizens within 24 hours of the arrival of these foreigners.

Commercial surrogacy

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Thailand.

If you’re planning to visit Thailand for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Thai and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.

It is also recommended that you consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on current policies regarding citizenship through descent and the issuance of Canadian travel documents.

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Thailand.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Thailand, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Compulsory military service

Male Thai citizens are subject to compulsory military service when they reach the age of 21. If you’re a dual Canadian–Thai citizen, you may be subject to this requirement.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Thailand.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Thailand by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Thailand to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Travelling with children
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency of Thailand is the Thai baht (THB).

Seismic activity

Thailand is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

In case of an earthquake or a tsunami alert, follow the instructions of local authorities.

Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to October. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Jungle treks are not advisable during the rainy season due to the possibility of mudslides. Flash flooding in caves has caused fatalities.

  • Weather warnings - Thai Meteorological department
  • Mekong river levels - Mekong River Commission
  • Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Air pollution

Air pollution fluctuates greatly and can be hazardous in urban areas, including Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Seasonal smog during the dry season is recurrent. In the northern provinces, including Chiang Mai, air quality can also be affected by agricultural burning.

You should monitor air pollution levels, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

Local authorities recommend that children, seniors and pregnant women wear anti-pollution masks, and minimize outdoor activities, when air pollution levels are high.

Air pollution in Thailand – World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 191
  • tourist police: 1155
  • medical assistance: 1669
  • firefighters: 199

General services

The Tourism Authority of Thailand offers general advice for tourists. Dial 1672 and press 9 for English.

Consular assistance

Online appointment requests

Thailand, Cambodia, Laos

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Thailand, in Bangkok, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

ThaiEmbassy.com

This website is managed by Siam Legal International - a law firm in Thailand

Thailand Travel Restrictions for July 2023

Tuatan

While Thailand’s borders are open to pretty much everyone, travel restrictions still exist for tourists to look into. These are changing every month, with new rules being added and older regulations being revoked. Here is an updated list:

  • Travellers are not required to show proof of Covid 19 vaccination when arriving in Thailand or boarding a plane. 
  • Restrictions on face masks are more relaxed and no longer enforced in many establishments (aside from hospitals, certain workplaces, and the BTS/MRT). Despite this, we still recommend wearing one for protection as Covid 19 is still spreading throughout Thailand’s borders.
  • Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended as a safety net to cover high travel and medical fees.
  • Tourists from a select number of countries are eligible for short visa exemptions if they do not currently hold a visa. 
  • Visitors to Thailand no longer need to carry a Certificate of Entry (COE) or a Thailand Pass.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Why travel insurance is voluntary, but also a necessity

Unfortunate circumstances can always befall you while you’re on a trip. While it is not mandatory for travellers to acquire travel insurance, it is highly recommended:

  • Travel insurance keeps you covered on doctors visits to avoid incurring high healthcare fees. Hospital bills are hefty, even in Thailand, and having travel insurance lets you save money in case of a medical emergency.
  • In cases of sudden accidents, travel insurance can provide significant coverage for the bulk of the fees you’re required to pay. 
  • Holding travel insurance can garner travellers additional perks and benefits. Some organisations such as Agoda offer special hotel booking discounts to travellers who have purchased travel insurance from certain agencies. 
  • Given the large variety of different insurance agencies dotted across Thailand that sell travel insurance solutions, acquiring and choosing one is simple and stress-free. 

Travel insurance is required, however, for travellers looking to do a RT-PCR test within Thai hospitals to test for Covid 19 symptoms. Because some countries require RT-PCR tests before stepping foot in the country, this is a situation in which you will need to obtain travel insurance if wanting to fly there as lacking one can cause delays.

There are many different insurance agencies in Thailand to purchase travel insurance from. One of the notable ones is AXA Insurance Thailand. Their offerings include a variety of benefits, including:

  • 750,000 THB medical coverage.
  • 1 million THB disability and accident coverage.
  • Start date effective immediately after clearing immigration. 
  • Multiple travel insurance options on display.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Interested in travel insurance with AXA? Apply here to get started!  

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

The importance of a Thai address

While visiting Thailand, many institutions such as immigration offices require addresses. For better quality of life improvements while in the country, it is important for visitors to have an address, whether it be for a hostel, a hotel, etc. There are a multitude of websites in Thailand designed to allow individuals to book accomodations, with one of the prominent ones being Agoda. 

  • Agoda provides complimentary perks and discounts to customers with travel insurance. 
  • You can apply for VIP status to acquire up to 25% discount on select goods, free perks, and AgodaCash to redeem points with. 
  • You can sign up for it free of charge!

Want to book a hotel through Agoda? Click here to get started!  

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Do you need to be vaccinated to arrive in Thailand?

Travellers will be delighted to hear that Thailand has relaxed its Covid 19 requirements given that a majority of the population is now fully vaccinated and most places have been opened to the public. Now you can now enjoy the freedom of being able to travel in Thailand without needing to adhere to any Covid 19 restrictions:

You no longer are required to showcase proof of vaccination documents to airport staff. Gone are the days when you’d need to print out this document or download a certain mobile app.

NOTE: This is dependent on the airline or country you’re flying from, so it’s recommended that you bring your proof of vaccination documents or contact your airline just in case.

  • Individuals can freely plan trips to certain places in Thailand without needing to worry about quarantines and temporary shutdowns. 
  • Certain Covid 19 restrictions such as curfews, face masks, etc, are not enforced. 

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Do you need a visa to come to Thailand?

Usually, travellers coming to Thailand will need a visa. However, there are some rare circumstances where they can travel without one or apply for an exemption. Some nationalities enable travellers to be able to enter and reside in Thailand for around 30 days without a visa on hand. It’s recommended that you check with a Royal Thai Consulate oe Embassy in your current country of residence whether you need a visa and how long you can stay without one. For instance, visitors arriving from some countries can enjoy a 30-day exemption period after arriving in Thailand without a visa. 

The 30-day exemption is only available to travellers originating from these following territories:

  • North America: Canada, United States.
  • Africa: Mauritius, South Africa.
  • Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovak, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, Ukraine.
  • Middle East: Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE. 
  • Asia: Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam.
  • Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.

Visitors from some countries are also eligible to stay within Thailand for 15 days under the Visa-On-Arrival program. To be eligible, you need to have:

  • A certain number of funds on hand (10,000 THB for single visitors, 20,000 THB for families).
  • Pay the entry fee of 2000 THB. 
  • A return ticket back from Thailand.
  • North America: Mexico, Papua New Guinea.
  • Africa: Ethiopia
  • Europe: Bulgaria, Cyprus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Malta, Romania, Uzbekistan.
  • Middle East: Saudi Arabia
  • Asia: Bhutan, China, Fiji, India, Taiwan.  
  • Oceania: Nauru, Vanuatu.

Under a bilateral agreement, visitors from these following countries are also able to access Thailand without needing a visa for a short number of time:

  • 15-days: Cambodia, Myanmar.
  • 30-days: Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Russia.
  • 90-days: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Korea, Peru.

While these exemptions are temporary, it can seem reassuring to you, especially if you haven’t received your visa yet. Visa applications can take a long time to be reviewed and in a time of uncertainty, being able to take advantage of these exemption periods can make travelling less worrisome.  

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Why July is the perfect time to visit Thailand

There is no greater time to visit Thailand than the summer. Known for having some of the most exquisite and beautiful beaches within the southeastern hemisphere alongside its affordable shopping opportunities and extravagant architecture, Thailand has been transformed into a popular tourist destination for billions across the globe. A trip to the Land of Smiles is simply to die for and the majority of travellers have marked their journey there as unforgettable. There is little surprise why tourists are constantly booking trips. 

Furthermore, Thailand has been awarded the following:

  • “Best Tourist Country” at the 2023 Grand Travel Awards ceremony . 
  • “Best Value for Money-Dream journey for long haul destination” award at Destination 2023 (twice in a row).

July is when the sun is out and the beaches are bustling with people and activities to partake in. While there is persistent rainfall every now and then, the times when there isn’t any are just absolute bliss. Just in the summer alone, Thailand offers:

  • Numerous coastal settlements dotted with resorts, housing and beaches,
  • A multitude of sandy beaches in locations such as Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Koh Samui.
  • A variety of summer activities to do such as riding jet skis, joining banana boat rides, surfing, building sand castles, bird watching, getting a tan and so much more. 
  • Hundreds of luxury resorts with top tier cuisine, swimming pools, and spas to stretch your weary legs in.
  • Lush jungles with lots of foliage and plant life to satisfy nature-lovers. Such places also include dense canopies that can shield you from sunlight and raindrops, and lots of colossal and beautiful trees. 
  • Majestic mountains in the northern regions that give off a very mystical vibe and offer plenty of opportunities to seek refuge from civilization. If you’re a sightseer, you can take this chance to soak in the picturesque scenery and the Thai countryside. 
  • Plenty of viewpoints, landscapes, and historical landmarks for photographers and videographers to leverage for their portfolio and social media pages.
  • Thousands of camping spots and opportunities. 

And this is only a fraction of what you can do here in Thailand. If you check out every nook and cranny, you will find that the possibilities here are endless.  

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Staying longer in Thailand

If you have enjoyed what Thailand has to offer and are planning on staying in the country for much longer, you can consider the Thailand Elite Visa . This rewards you with either a 5, 10, or 20 years visa with a streamlined application process and a list of exclusive perks.

Essential contact information to keep track of

Here are some organisations worth contacting during your stay in Thailand:

  • 191: dial this number to reach the Royal Thai Police. 
  • 1155: dial this number for the National Tourist Police (highly recommended for tourists if you want to speak to a police officer).
  • 1111: dial this number for the National Tourist Police call centre (used more for general complaints). 
  • 199: dial this number to reach the Bangkok Fire and Rescue Department.
  • 1699 or 1669: dial this number for medical emergencies.
  • 1554: dial this number for ambulance and rescue services.
  • 1192: dial this number to report a car theft.
  • 1195: dial this number to report a crime.
  • 1146: dial this number to reach the Rural Road Department’s hotline in case there is a road emergency. 
  • 1178: dial this number if you want to reach Bangkok Immigration Division 1 on Chaeng Wattana Road for any concerns related to immigration. 

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Contact Siam Legal

If you need legal or immigration support, consider contacting Siam Legal. As a reputable law firm, Siam Legal offers aid to tourists and foreign nationals on any immigration or legal-related matters. Individuals can choose different visa solutions to purchase, immigration consultants to speak to, and garner assistance for police clearances. Consider filling out Siam Legal’s inquiry form if you desire any assistance. 

Alternatively, Siam Legal is open from 9am to 6pm Mondays through Fridays. You can reach our customer support team via phone. For those with international numbers, consider reaching out at:

  • Thailand: +66 2 254-8900
  • US-Toll Free: 1-877-252-8831

If you have a local number you can call Siam Legal at:

  • Phone: 02 254 8900
  • Mobile: 084 021 9800

Related Posts

Thailand travel restrictions for august 2023.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Thailand Travel Restrictions for June 2023

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Thailand Travel Restrictions for May 2023

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Thailand Travel Restrictions for April 2023

  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • The Great Reboot
  • Reuters Next
  • Aerospace & Defense
  • Autos & Transportation
  • Environment
  • Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
  • Media & Telecom
  • Retail & Consumer
  • Sustainable Business
  • Future of Health
  • Future of Money
  • Reuters Impact
  • Legal Industry
  • Transactional
  • Asian Markets
  • Carbon Markets
  • Commodities
  • Emerging Markets
  • European Markets
  • Global Market Data
  • Rates & Bonds
  • U.S. Markets
  • Macro Matters
  • Reuters Momentum
  • Motor Sports
  • Oddly Enough

In Pictures

Stalls selling cannabis are seen on a street in Phuket, Thailand, August 27, 2023. REUTERS/Jorge Silva

Thailand’s flourishing cannabis culture to end as government seeks ban

By Photography by Jorge Silva, Text by Panu Wongcha-um

Filed March 15, 2024, 11 p.m. GMT

Photography by Jorge Silva Text by Panu Wongcha-um

Filed March 15, 2024, 23:00 p.m. GMT

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Thodsapol Hongtong is enjoying a smoke with his friends at the “Green Party”, a venue where recreational cannabis enthusiasts meet in the Thai capital Bangkok to chat and have a good time. But it’s a pastime that may be coming to an end.

The 31-year-old influencer who runs his own cannabis shop regularly touts recreational marijuana as good for the country’s economy on his online platform “Channel Weed Thailand”.

The booming cannabis sector could be worth $1.2 billion by next year, according to the estimate by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce.

“Where (else) in the world can we lie around on the beach and enjoy a joint,” Thodsapol told Reuters, taking a puff from his bong.

But the Thai government is looking to stamp out cannabis culture with a ban on its recreational use to be rolled out by the end of the year. Medical use will still be permitted.

Thai Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, in an interview with Reuters last month, described recreational marijuana as a “misuse” of cannabis that has a negative impact on Thai children and could lead to other drug abuses.

Recreational cannabis flourished in Thailand after the country became the first in Asia to fully decriminalise the substance in 2022, enabling a new public wave of weed appreciation culture.

Neon signs of cannabis leaf in multiple languages are highly visible on many street corners in Thai towns and cities, marking the tens of thousands of shops, spas, bars and gaming lounges where a variety of cannabis strains are readily available.

Many streetside shops in tourist areas sell smoking paraphernalia, while cannabis-related festivals became more common, like last year’s joint-rolling competition in the resort island of Phuket that drew in weed aficionados from around the world.

The Thai government’s draft law banning recreational use of cannabis will be up for cabinet approval later this month.

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

“Where (else) in the world can we lie around on the beach and enjoy a joint.” Thodsapol Hongtong, cannabis influencer

is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

Photography: Jorge Silva

Reporting: Jorge Silva

Writing: Panu Wongcha-um

Text editing: Lucy Marks

Photo editing: Eve Watling and Marta Montana Gomez

LICENSE THIS PACKAGE

  • Follow Reuters Investigates

Other Reuters investigations

IMAGES

  1. Is Thailand Safe? (INSIDER Tips for 2023)

    is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

  2. Thailand Tourism Statistics 2023: All You Need To Know

    is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

  3. Is Thailand Safe To Travel To?

    is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

  4. Is Bangkok Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

    is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

  5. 2023 international arrivals to Thailand projected to reach 20.0-24.0

    is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

  6. Is It Safe To Travel To Thailand in 2023

    is it safe to travel to thailand 2023

VIDEO

  1. Land Entry Fee THAILAND

  2. The EASIEST WAY to get a THAI VISA 🇹🇭

COMMENTS

  1. Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

    Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory. These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order: Jump to Place: Afghanistan: The Central Asian country ...

  2. Thailand Travel Advisory

    Exercise normal precautions in Thailand, except for the southernmost provinces where civil unrest is ongoing. Reconsider travel to these provinces due to insurgent activities and limited U.S. government assistance.

  3. Thailand Travel Restrictions 2023

    Find out the latest visa, insurance, and hotel requirements for traveling to Thailand in 2023. Learn about the Thailand Elite Visa program, the online e-visa application, and the COVID-19 situation in Thailand.

  4. Is Thailand SAFE to Travel in 2024? (Must Read)

    Traveling solo in Thailand should not be a problem for anyone, as long as you use all the safety tips mentioned so far in this article. For solo female travelers, you'll find that Thailand is a very safe country where women are respected and treated equally to men. The same safety tips apply to men and women.

  5. Thailand Travel Restrictions

    The average travel insurance cost for a trip to Thailand is only around $100 to $150. Foreigners can get a Thailand travel insurance policy covering COVID-19 easily and conveniently. Visitors can buy the travel insurance online with a credit card and the insurance policy and COVID-19 certificate will be sent to you instantly.

  6. Thailand travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

    Find out the latest updates on Thailand travel restrictions, rules, and health and safety guidance for 2024. Learn about visa exemptions, Covid testing, mask mandates, and more from official sources and local perspectives.

  7. Thailand Travel Restrictions for June 2023

    Thailand Travel Restrictions for June 2023. Travelers may join our to ask questions, get help and read the latest developments: 1. Passport and Thai Visa. Foreign visitors may be able to enjoy visa-free trips to Thailand for 15 to 90 days.

  8. Thailand Travel Advice & Safety

    Exercise a high degree of caution. Exercise a high degree of caution. Pay close attention to your personal security and the current health situation. Monitor the media for new and existing risks. to Thailand overall due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism, including in Bangkok and Phuket. Reconsider your need to travel.

  9. Thailand International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  10. Can I travel to Thailand? Travel Restrictions & Entry ...

    Thailand entry details and exceptions. Effective January 9 to January 31, 2023 - Travelers (aged 18 years old and above) arriving in Thailand must have proof of vaccination; or proof of recovery from COVID in the last 6 months; or you may also provide a vaccine-exemption letter from a doctor stating you cannot receive a COVID vaccine due to ...

  11. Is Thailand safe to visit? What every tourist (and expats) should know

    Thailand is generally a safe country to travel to. It's currently ranked 92nd out of 163 countries for peaceability in the latest Global Peace Index. Moreover, the U.S. State Department considers it to be a level-1 country, which means you only need to exercise normal precautions. Beyond the statistics, the warmth of the locals adds to the ...

  12. 17 things to know before going to Thailand

    3. Sensible travelers to Thailand book ahead. If you have your heart set on a particular boat journey, train trip, trek, tour or boutique stay, book ahead for the busy tourist season from November to March or during any religious holiday. During the rainy season, call or email ahead to check if places are open. 4.

  13. Traveling to Thailand during Covid-19

    The basics. Thailand has recorded more than 32,000 deaths and over 4.67 million cases of Covid-19 as of September 26, 2022. On average, around 700 Covid-19 cases are reported per day. On July 1 ...

  14. Is Thailand Safe for Travelers in 2024?

    Thailand is ready to welcome visitors back for tourism, but there are still entry requirements. Effective January 9, 2023 through at least the end of the month, all visitors must show proof of vaccination or proof of recovery from COVID within the six months prior to travel. Proof of health insurance is also required if you would need negative ...

  15. Thailand travel advice

    Still current at: 19 March 2024 Updated: 19 January 2024 Latest update: Information that while cannabis is legal in Thailand, be aware of the next place you are travelling to, where it may be ...

  16. Thailand

    If your travel plans in Thailand include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first ...

  17. Safety and security

    keep valuables secure and out of sight. avoid sleeping on buses and trains - people have had items taken from bags while asleep. Keep hold of your passport. Don't hand it over as a guarantee ...

  18. Is Thailand Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

    Thailand may be safe to travel in, overall, but backpacking AND being female comes with its own special warning. Women are often the recipients of "special" attention and are often more appealing targets for would-be criminals. Unfortunate, but true. We believe that Thailand IS safe for solo female travelers.

  19. Travel advice and advisories for Thailand

    Don't leave bags unattended. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and travel documents, are secure at all times, especially in tourist areas, crowded markets and bus or train stations. Avoid walking in dark alleys or isolated areas. Thefts occur on cross-country buses and vans.

  20. 20 Thailand Travel Tips (for Solo Visitors)

    2. Consider Medical Insurance. For the past several years, getting travel insurance for Thailand was required for tourist visas. However, Thailand dropped that requirement this past summer when it ended the "Thailand Pass" registration scheme. Traveling is still risky traveling these days, though.

  21. Thailand Travel Restrictions for August 2023

    All travelers can freely travel to Thailand without any COVID restriction. Travelers are not required to obtain Thailand Pass or Certificate of Entry (COE). ... Thailand Travel Restrictions for May 2023 . Thailand Travel Restrictions for April 2023 . Leave a comment Cancel reply. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are ...

  22. Thailand Travel Restrictions for July 2023

    Thailand Travel Restrictions for July 2023. While Thailand's borders are open to pretty much everyone, travel restrictions still exist for tourists to look into. These are changing every month, with new rules being added and older regulations being revoked. Here is an updated list:

  23. Is Thailand safe to travel (2023)? : r/ThailandTourism

    This just goes to show the ignorance of many people about the situation in Thailand. Thailand is safer than many Western countries. Thailand is amazingly safe. Sure, you can read the Pattaya Mail and the local news for people being attacked etc etc.

  24. Thailand's flourishing cannabis culture to end as government seeks ban

    A woman walks over a projection advertising a cannabis shop in Bangkok, Thailand, September 20, 2023. REUTERS/Jorge Silva "Where (else) in the world can we lie around on the beach and enjoy a ...