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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Thailand Travel Guide (2024)

There is some kind of magic in Thailand that keeps us backpackers coming back time and time again. You feel it as soon as you arrive; the warm welcoming smiles and DELICIOUS smells of street food fill your soul. There’s nothing quite like it.

Slinging a backpack over a shoulder and heading to the Kingdom of Thailand to find yourself is a rite of passage for many. Over the years, the beaten path in Thailand has become pretty well beaten by us travellers.  

Thailand is truly a fascinating and beautiful country that deserves to be explored beyond its tourist hotspots. Home to some of the kindest humans I’ve met, beautiful landscapes, crystal clear waters and BANGIN food – there is so much to discover when you get off the beaten path.

As with so many things in life; Backpacking Thailand will be what you make of it. Dive into the local way of life and really experience it all.

Without further ado, let’s jump in and get inspired to rediscover why backpacking Thailand is freaking amazing!

Why Go Backpacking in Thailand?

Possibly the most popular destination for backpacking in Southeast Asia , there are so many weird and wonderful places to visit in Thailand. Southern Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the world; the north of Thailand offers mysterious jungles and epic motorbike riding.

You could come and go backpacking just for the Thai food . Honestly, this country offers so much more than pad Thai – it has some of the best street food in the world! And, the street food is so cheap and such a cornerstone of life in cities that you can try some of everything! For me, it was the simple treats like chilli and watermelon that got me excited about eating out in Thailand.

There is a feeling that anything is possible in Thailand – and I do mean anything . You’ll meet a lot of people (mostly a certain kind of ex-pat) who are living out their “dream” in Thailand and they fall into the seedier side of the country pretty quickly. You just don’t face the same moral consequences here as you do back in the West.

Now, you could spend a month (or many months) going to full moon parties and blasting your way through Bangkok’s finest ( read : grungiest) establishments. Or you could join a silent meditation retreat , learn about yoga, motorbike through Northern Thailand, and explore the national parks.

Thailand also has some legendary SCUBA diving. In fact, many people learn how to dive in Thailand or become diving instructors here.

There’s even some pretty legendary sailing around these parts! Maybe you try out boat life and are sold on a life on the ocean…

Whatever you choose to do when you go backpacking Thailand, know that you chose to do it. This is the country that many cut their backpacking teeth on – or even level up their digital nomad game. Either way, you write your own manifesto and create one hell of a journey for yourself.

And it’s sure to be beautiful.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Thailand

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Generally, backpacking trips to Thailand, are split into the southern legs and the northern legs. Some backpackers only have two or three weeks in the country. In this case, I’d recommend sticking to one half of the country. It’s always better to travel slowly !

But if you have a month or more in the country, then it’s well worth combining the two backpacking Thailand itineraries I’ve outlined below. Neither half of the country is better than the other – just extremely different. And to truly get to know Thailand, you need to see the country from all angles.

Figuring out where to stay in Thailand is made a little easier once you know which half of the country you’re travelling to. So before we get into travelling off the beaten path, let’s dive into the highlights of travelling Thailand!

Backpacking Thailand 3 Week Itinerary pt 1: Thailand’s Islands

Starting in Bangkok , Thailand’s capital, make your way south to Phuket . If you go overland, make a side trip to  Kanchanaburi , one of the beautiful national parks , though it makes more sense to fly for not that much more money. Check domestic flights beforehand.

Phuket is the gateway to the Andaman Sea in Southern Thailand. While touristy, Phuket has things to do for everybody: amazing beaches, boozy nights, one of the best Crossfit boxes in Southeast Asia, and Buddhist temples galore.

From Phuket, your next step is to travel Koh Phi Phi , also touristy, but known for its beautiful beaches, epic nightlife, and awesome places to stay.

Head to  Koh Lanta next to take a break from all the partying – book ahead to ensure a bed at the best Koh Lanta hostels. With 2 weeks dedicated to the Andaman Sea, you can make it to Koh Lipe . Finally, end your trip by staying in the Krabi area. Here you can also extend a couple of days in Railay if you’re big into rock climbing !

Next, it’s time to explore the famous Gulf of Thailand, which includes  Koh Samui, Koh Phangan , and Koh Tao . The infamous full-moon party is on Koh Phangan, though there are some chilled-out areas to stay in Koh Phangan  instead as well as lots more to do on the island than just party! Koh Tao is known for its laidback diver vibe and incredibly affordable diving schools. Koh Samui is the most unpopular of the three; you really only come here to party.

Backpacking Thailand 3 Week Itinerary pt 2: The Central and North of Thailand

If you are flying internationally, you may fly to Bangkok . It’s easy to get a domestic flight up to Chiang Mai , but if you want to take the slow route, head to Khao Yai first.

Just three hours north of Bangkok, this park is a great place to find wild elephants as well as hike and swim. It also has some crazy beautiful waterfalls that you need to trek a bit to reach – totally worth it!

You can also head to  Umphang for some trekking. Here you can reach the 200m-high Tee Lor Su Falls by rafting and hiking your way through the jungle on a three-day trip.

Next, head to Chiang Mai , Thailand’s capital with plenty to do! The digital nomad capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai mixes local and backpacker vibes like a perfect  Cha Yen .

Need help deciding between Bangkok and Chiang Mai ? Check out our helpful guide.

Spend 2 days in Chiang Rai checking out the temples, and allocate some solid time to staying in the hippy village of Pai  high in the mountains. People get stuck in Pai; it’s one of those places. Or maybe it’s the mushrooms? 😉

Thailand has many layers to it. Even the most touristy places hide surprises and delights. It’s obvious why they’re some of the best places to visit in Thailand .

I loved exploring Bangkok as it only took a little bit of walking to discover local neighbourhoods and hidden markets that made you feel a world away from the tourists on the main streets. There are just so many places to visit in Bangkok you could spend an entire month here! Plus, Bangkok has a Skytrain! As a small-town girl, this REALLY impressed me!

Beyond the big cities are islands and coral reefs; jungles and mountains. The deeper you explore the country while backpacking Thailand, you too, will peel back this country’s layers and find your own hidden gems.

Always, there will be life.

Backpacking Bangkok

This is the hectic heart of the backpacker scene in Southeast Asia. At first, backpacking Bangkok can be a hard sell. Parts of the city are gritty, claustrophobic, and full of people with ill intentions. Plus, the aesthetic of the city can feel like you’ve washed up in some dystopian tech future full of skyscrapers and slums, but no flying cars.

But once you lean into the city, it rewards you a hundredfold. Lumpini Park is Bangkok’s answer to New York’s Central Park. It’s a great place to have your morning coffee while watching local life happen. You can soak up some nature while at the heart of the metropolis.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner should all be from the innumerable street food carts. There is a cornucopia of fruits available (the dragonfruit in Thailand… oh man, it’s good) as well as a huge range of curries, soups, and noodles. Beware though, if you ask for something to be spicy, the Thais will make sure you are pooping fire for the next four days. They seem to take spice as a personal challenge, so get ready to sweat!

When I travel to big cities I often enjoy what is considered “mundane”. Taking Bangkok’s sky train throughout the city and people watching was something I found genuinely fascinating . You have no idea just how diverse this city is until you ride through each of its districts.

Then there are the floating markets – an absolute must-do! Truth be told, there are plenty of temples, palaces, markets, and other things to do in Bangkok. PLUS the nightlife in Bangkok is fantastic!

A great day trip option is Bangkok to Ayutthaya where you can get your first glimpse of jungle temples reclaimed by nature. Whilst not as impressive as Bagan or Angkor Wat, Ayutthaya is still very cool.

All I’d say is: keep your wits about you in this city of saints and sinners !

Backpacking Kanchanaburi

Travelling is about going to places that are difficult as much as it is going to places that are beautiful or fun. And Kanchanaburi, while undoubtedly one of Thailand’s most stunning places , also presents its own set of unique challenges.

In 1942 Kanchanaburi was under Japanese control and it was here that Asian forced labourers and Allied POWs were made to build the infamous ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’ as part of the ‘Death Railway’. You should also take a look at the JEATH Museum. It does a really good job of putting the war in perspective even all these years on.

This sobering experience and point of reflection is an important reason to take the trip out here. But, it’s also located near to some truly stunning waterfalls. Such is the poetry of life: it goes on . Where there once was so much suffering is now a town like any other.

While you’re in town, you can also check out the Khmer ruins on the edge of town. It’s a nice contrast of history to see the distant with the more recent.

Backpacking Khao Yai National Park

Just three hours north of Bangkok, this park is a great place to find wild elephants as well as hike and swim. It also has some crazy beautiful waterfalls that you need to trek a bit to reach- totally worth it.

You didn’t just come to Thailand to swan around on beaches or drink alcohol out of a bucket. You came to explore the wilderness of a new country! And out here in Khao Yai, elephants occasionally squash cars and you’re likely to see barking deer as well as hundreds of bird species.

Now, tigers have been seen by camera but are rarely seen by people. Still, the national park feels a world away from the bustling metropolis of Bangkok. Once upon a time, all of Southeast Asia was as wild as this so it’s definitely worth a moment of reflection to think about the impact we humans have on the planet.

Bring your camping hammock with you and sleep the night in this beautiful national park for free! Camping is my favourite way to get right back in touch with the wilderness that is found in a place like Khao Yai.

Backpacking Chiang Mai

Most backpackers end up in this leafy laid back city at some point and with good reason. The historical, yet surprising cosmopolitan, walled city is surrounded by jungle and amazing hillside landscape. The area has become well known for homestay and hill-tribe trekking in Thailand . One downside, however, is that the treks here can sometimes feel commercialized, verging on a bit exploitive of the hill-tribe people.

I suggest either trekking elsewhere such as a national park or heading out on a longer trek to discover some more untouched areas, around the Myanmar border area. This way you’re actually trekking and taking on the responsibility of a hike instead of being lead around some vaguely forested areas by a guide.

Chiang Mai itself is well worth visiting if not only for the vast array of temples, then for the quaint coffee shops that seem to match them in numbers, often serving locally grown coffee beans and free WiFi.

Why is travelling to Chiang Mai every vagabond’s dream? Street food… of course! Magic is happening on these roads.

Prices for Thai massage are some of the cheapest I’ve come across too. And the massive night market is one of the best places to pick up souvenirs in the country.

There is a huge amount to do in Chiang Mai and it’s largely considered the digital nomad centre of the world (for better or worse). Chiang Mai has become not only one of the best places in Thailand to visit but also to live.

There is a cinema, a Crossfit box, tons of meetups and events and it’s very easy to slot into working life in Chiang Mai. So if you are thinking of pausing anywhere on your travels and need access to good WiFi, Chiang Mai is a good bet.

Backpacking Pai

A small town in the north of Thailand near Myanmar’s border, Pai has recently made it onto the backpacker circuit and is super popular. I fucking love Pai. It’s one of those special sticky spots that draws travellers in and somehow 4 weeks has passed! The drive from Chiang Mai to Pai is also especially epic if you do it by motorbike.

Pai is worth a visit in and of itself. There are incredible street food stalls, rolling hills packed with things to do , circus hostels, jazz bars (yes, jazz bars!) and parties that seem to roll well past dawn. Hippies and freaks are drawn here like moths to a flame partly because the weed and magic mushrooms are rather delectable. 😉

Now, if you have time, I strongly recommend getting closer to the Myanmar border and visiting some of the Karen villages in the area. The easiest way to do this is by motorbike.

When exploring these parts, you realise how many more layers there are to Thailand beyond the tourist bubbles. There are whole communities and tensions and beauty strewn throughout the far-flung corners.

There are also some cool and unique eco-resorts in Pai where your contributions help support local communities as well as lower your carbon footprint. Pai is such a special little getaway for any type of traveller – but especially for those digital nomads that end up living in Chiang Mai.

Backpacking Koh Samet and Koh Chang

Koh Samet and Koh Chang are good island alternatives to those in the south of Thailand. They’re a bit closer to Bangkok, a bit less developed, and a bit less hectic than some places in the south. They’re also conveniently close to Cambodia in case you were visiting there next!

To get to Koh Chang, you’ll need to take a bus from Bangkok – there’s one that departs near Khaosan Road – until you reach Trat, at which point you’ll take a boat. Most companies include the connection in a single ticket.

Once you’re on Koh Chang, it’s just a matter of finding a place to stay and renting a bike. Most of the guesthouses are near the port and they can help you rent a scooter.

Avoid the elephant sanctuaries on Koh Chang. They reportedly are an unethical business of exploitive animal tourism .

Koh Samet is located before Koh Chang and a bit closer to Bangkok. You’ll need to arrive in Rayong before taking a ferry to the island.

Koh Samet will be a similar experience to Koh Chang; maybe a bit more local as lots of Thais living in Bangkok like to escape here when they have the chance.

Island life promises an escape to anyone living in a city as chaotic and Bangkok. I quite enjoyed these islands as a way to make some Thai friends as much as to kick back with a beer and other travellers.

Backpacking Phuket

Phuket is the largest city in the south and the centre for things sleazy and debaucherous. In all honesty, staying in Phuket kinda sucks. I would only stay there for a night or two if I was on a layover or had the intention of making day trips. There are much better things to do around Phuket instead.

Head to Koh Yao Noi for an isolated treehouse experience. A fairly chilled-out place, it’s a short boat trip from Phuket where I spent a week living in an incredible treehouse in the forest. If you want to disconnect from technology (there is no electricity) or have a romantic weekend away, I highly recommend checking out The Island Hideout!

Arguably the best national park in Thailand, Khao Sok , is also a 3-hour drive from Phuket. This palace offers caves, jungles, rivers, and gorgeous limestone scenery. You can explore the park by using its hiking trail, raft, canoe, or kayak through the Sok river. If you’re lucky you may spot an elusive gibbon or two.

Ao Phang-nga National Park is also very close by. This place is famous for its surreal limestone towers and caves. Kayaking around the towers and through the caves is a really cool experience and definitely worth doing.

If you go with a tour operator, they will likely take you to Khao Phing Kan AKA James Bond Island, where scenes from The Man with the Golden Gun were filmed.

So basically, yes, there are some cool things to do AROUND Phuket, but not really in Phuket. Although, maybe it’s a little wrong of me to say, but people-watching in Phuket is disgustingly delightful. 😉

Need help deciding between Phuket and Krabi ? We’ve got you covered.

Backpacking Railay and Krabi

Railay and Krabi are ground-zero for all things climbing in Thailand. Here will find some of the most epic and exhilarating routes in all of Asia. If you’ve never climbed before, this is a great place to start!

Krabi is the main hub of the region. It’s not on the coast proper, rather further inland. Most people catch the first boat they can find to Railay, Tonsai, or one of the other nearby beaches. There are a couple of hostels in town if you need to crash.

Tonsai and Railay are the most popular places to stay near Krabi. Railay is slightly more developed and a bit more refined. Tonsai is like a scene out of Lord of the Flies , complete with feral children. Stay in Tonsai if you want to party, or Railay if you want something a bit calmer.

From either Tonsai or Railay, you ca organize lots of different day trips. I absolutely recommend going deep water soloing, which involves climbing (without gear!) directly over the ocean. It’s a bit nerve-wracking but totally worth it.

You can also arrange tours to the surrounding islands of Koh Poda, Tup, and Po Da Nak. There are quite a lot of places around Krabi worth seeing in fact.

Lots of people organize overnight trips to the legendary Koh Phi Phi islands from Krabi. These are among the most famous islands in Thailand – thanks to the film The Beach – and are justifiably gorgeous.

The problem is that the islands are pretty overrun these days and the scenery is at risk of being destroyed. There has been talk of limiting access recently – and they’ve done so at Maya Bay – but nothing has really changed yet.

Backpacking Koh Tao, Koh Samui, and Koh Phangan

Located on Thailand’s eastern coast, these 3 islands, which are quite close to one another, all offer something unique.

Koh Phangan is where you’ll find the (in)famous Full Moon Parties. They became so popular in recent years, that they started organizing one for each phase of the moon: there’s a New Moon Party, Quarter Moon, and so and so forth. Locals put a stop to this because things got out of hand though.

The parties aren’t really that great – just a bunch of sloppy tourists drinking horrible liquor from a bucket and burning themselves on flaming jump ropes. In fact, there are much better parties on the island .

Some of the parties last for several days. If you want to be present for all of them, stay somewhere on Koh Phangan (preferably on the east coast). Otherwise, stay on either Koh Samui or Koh Tao and make the trip over for one night.

Need help deciding between Phuket or Koh Phangan ? Check out our helpful guide.

Koh Tao is the best place to dive in the area. It is probably the cheapest place to get your diver’s license in Thailand and thus attracts a lot of aspiring dive masters. I preferred this island as you can still go over to Koh Samui

Even if you don’t dive, Koh Tao is a very chill place and worth spending a day on still. There are some nice beaches around and nothing is too far away.

Koh Samui is the “resort island,” mostly inhabited by older couples and Russians on holiday. It’s much bigger than either Koh Tao or Koh Phangan, which means there is a bit more to do on Samui . It is definitely more expensive, but luckily there are some hostels dotted around the island still.

Off the Beaten Path Travel in Thailand

Thailand is definitely well on the beaten track as far as destinations go. Everyone loves to come here and everyone wants to keep coming back.

The thing is, people really love to come to the same destinations within the country. So, it doesn’t take a lot to step off the tourist trail and see another side of Thailand.

Even as far as tropical islands go, you can find small islands that are totally uninhabited. If you’re exploring Southeast Asia by boat then you can truly go Robinson Crusoe and live off coconuts away from any people. Some of the better diving spots are pretty offbeat as well – the Similan Islands come to mind.

Koh Tarutao and Koh Phayam are two of the other islands that are more laid back and will deliver some seriously good vibes.

If you want to get off the beaten path but meet people while you’re at it, you need to head to Thailand’s borders. Whether you’re in the north near Myanmar, or down south near Malaysia borders are where things get interesting. I’m hesitant to recommend that everyone go exploring here, as there is sometimes tensions that flare up. However, the cultures are very interesting and the people are welcoming, too.

The jungles are unmatched and you certainly don’t feel like you’re in Thailand anymore. If you want to travel off the beaten path you simply have to avoid the tourists. 😉

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

There are literally too many awesome things to do in Thailand and you won’t fit them into a single trip! Now, a best-of list will inevitably ruffle some feathers, but this is a good start if you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Thailand.

1. Go Scuba Diving

Many backpackers fall in love with scuba diving whilst in Thailand. The country offers incredible diving opportunities in crystal clear waters with abundant marine life and plenty of wrecks for the underwater adventurer. The best islands for diving are the Similan Islands and Koh Tao , but no doubt the cheapest place to learn is Kao Tao.

2. Party Like a Machine!

Probably the most popular backpacker party in the world is the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan . 20,000 people partying until sunrise on Haat Rin Beach, Koh Phangan. It is extremely touristy, boozy, and the music is shit, but it is still worth a look.

I personally prefer the half-moon and Shiva Moon parties as there are not quite so many people and so prices do not skyrocket as much. Suffice to say, you’ll find plenty of parties and nightlife in Koh Phangan that you dig, but you may just need to look outside the standards.

Option 3 is just getting fucked up partying in Bangkok… Now that I can get behind.

Looking for something a bit different? There are a bunch of other festivals in Thailand to consider.

3. Go Jungle Trekking

There is some great jungle trekking in Northern Thailand. If you choose to go trekking make sure to go on a multi-day hike. The most popular places to go jungle trekking are Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai (Chiang Rai has some great hostels and the city centre is totally worth a visit too).

All that said, personally, I prefer trekking in Laos.

4. Chow Down on Amazing Street Food

Dude. Duuuuuuuuuuude, Thai food probably ranks as my favourite food in the whole world. It’s spicy in a way that kind of knocks you on your ass but goddamn it’s so flavoursome. There’s a huge variety of types of food too, but all of it focuses on fresh ingredients.

So not only are papaya salads and tom yum soups delicious, but they’re also available from every street cart. The street food in Thailand is cheap and off the charts delectable. Eat your way through this country’s pure goodness.

5. Learn to Cook Said Epic Food

Now that you’ve eaten your way through a city or two, it’s time to upskill. Learn how to cook up amazing flavorful dishes, so that you can take your skills back home with you and keep the Thai food train rolling.  It’s a memorable experience to try out on the backpacking route in Thailand. Plus, you don’t want to go home with only the memory of this incredible food – you need to be able to recreate it for yourself!

6. See Some Elephants ETHICALLY

Look, we all adore elephants, but the sad truth is that not everywhere you go backpacking in Thailand will have the most upstanding treatment of the adorable fellows. If you want to see elephants in Thailand, do your research and find an ethical elephant sanctuary .

At the end of the day, I really don’t think that riding elephants can ever be ethical but that doesn’t mean you can’t try and spot them in the wild. You can even go to the national parks and simply watch them in their natural habitat.

7. Climbing at Tonsai and Railay

You’ve also got some wicked rock climbing in Thailand’s south, particularly close to Krabi. It’s a chill life: wake up with a climb, down a mushie shake for brunch, hit the walls again before a lunchtime joint…

Check out Tonsai and Railay Beach if you’re keen to get stuck in the climber’s bubble for a couple of weeks (or more).

8. Stretch Your Booty!

If you are new to yoga, this is a great place to learn. It’s no India when it comes to the scale of yoga retreats , but there are certainly a lot around. You can also embark on fitness retreats in Thailand if you want to tone up or lose weight.

I think it can be such a great skill set to incorporate into your travels. You get to keep fit on the road while also focusing your attention on your mental health.

The yoga classes in Thailand tend to be more chill than in India, too. It’s definitely a nice introduction to yoga practice.

9. Explore Northern Thailand by Motorbike

Travelling by motorbike is (in my humble opinion) one of the best ways to travel a country – and Thailand is no exception! Backpacking Northern Thailand is already going to be a bit of an adventure because it takes you rather off the beaten path and into the epic jungles.

Being able to control your own itinerary and camp alongside your bike is an awesome way to see Thailand up close and it’s way easier to do this when you travel by bike. Plus, the locals are always pretty curious about your bike and your adventure!

No Motorbike? Go with Global Work and Travel

Northern Thailand can also be explored by those who’d prefer an itinerary with Global Work and Travel , an online platform with opportunities to volunteer, teach English, go on tours and more. They’ve got broke backpackers in mind, as they offer the chance to pay in interest-free instalments that you get to choose. The Northern Thailand: Hilltribes & Villages Tour is just one of the choices available for those wanting to explore Northern Thailand and beyond. Bring your appetite, there’s a lot of street food involved.

10. Go Island Hopping

Look, whether you live the boat life or whether you jump on the rickety ferries that run between the islands, you’ve got to see some of these paradises up close.

If you want to party then you’re going to want to hit up some of these islands. But in my opinion, you should head for the more low key islands. Not only is the diving better but you get to actually relax and destress on island time.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

For me, one of the most exciting things about being on the road is meeting new people and staying in new places. And what better place than Thailand to really jump into backpacker culture by staying in some of the most kickass hostels in Southeast Asia.

The hostels in Thailand are backpacker Meccas. They and great for meeting fellow travellers, exchanging exciting travel stories, and just chilling out.

There is an insane amount of accommodation options all around Thailand ranging from the squalid to the regal. It is usually possible to arrange accommodation as you go, on the day, by turning up and asking around.

The notable exception is Koh Phangan at Full Moon which does fill up with annoying kids so we advise booking ahead. Hostel life is one of the highlights of people’s backpacking years – even if it can be a bit of love/hate!

If you need a break from the hostel life or don’t think it really sounds like your thing, you can always try out one of Thailand’s premier Airbnbs. As with most things in Thailand, they aren’t super expensive but they are top-notch quality. Staying in an Airbnb can be a lovely break – even for the broke backpacker.

Another way you can keep the cost of your accommodation down is by camping in Thailand. All it takes is a good tent a little bit of discretion and the backcountry is your oyster.

Best Places to Stay in Thailand

Although certainly still cheap in the global sense, compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, visiting Thailand is more expensive . A beer costs around $3 and a bed in a hostel will set you back between $5 and $10 .

A lot of attractions in Thailand are cheap or even free, and transport is not too expensive either. Some of the bigger activities like SCUBA diving or trekking will be more expensive, for obvious reasons. Without too much effort, you can keep your daily costs in Thailand under $20 .

Below I have highlighted what things cost in Thailand in sections:

Although cheap, accommodation in Thailand is more expensive than most other countries in Southeast Asia. You can still find guesthouses for around $7 in the cities and $4 in the countryside, but you have to look harder.

Bungalows and beach huts start at around $4 but can cost way more if you haven’t perfected your haggling skills. It’s well worth having a hammock or a tent whilst backpacking Thailand as there are lots of very cool places to set up for a night.

Food is super cheap in Thailand and is some of the best in all of Asia!  Street food costs around $0.65, and if you eat locally, it is possible to get by on about $2-3 a day.  You can save a lot of money on your bar tab by taking advantage of happy hours or buying cheap beer from a 7-Eleven.

Transport is pretty cheap in Thailand if you don’t get ripped off by a tour operator.

• Only get in  taxis  which agree to run on the meter. A taxi ride normally costs under $3.
• Tuk Tuks are great fun but you have to haggle. They probably work out more expensive at around $5 a journey.
• Boats  between Thai islands cost between $7 and $15 and it sometimes works out better value to buy a boat and bus combo ticket.
• Buses  are pretty cheap and local buses cost just $0.25 in Bangkok.
• Trains  across the country cost between $7 and $18. When booking short-distance buses it often makes sense to simply book them on the ground but if you plan on  traveling to Singapore  or Malaysia it can be worth booking them in advance.
• If you choose to pay for a tour (I very rarely endorse this) it will cost between $15 and $35 a day.
• Trekking with a guide  costs between $30 and $50 a day.
• A  PADI dive certification  course costs around $300.

When you’re ready to travel around Thailand, forgo buying tickets at the station and book them online instead! You can now book transport in advance for most of Asia and doing so can really save you some stress (and maybe money, too).

Money in Thailand

There are lots of international ATMs and credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the more built-up areas such as Bangkok. But many of these, charge pretty insane withdrawal fees. So it’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once. Just make sure you hide it well!

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends  Wise  – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

And yes, it’s even better than Western Union!

Top Tips for Visiting Thailand on a Budget

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst travelling in Thailand, I recommend sticking to the basic rules of budget backpacking …

• Camp:  With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Thailand is an excellent place to take a tent. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking.
• Cook your own food:  I took a backpacking gas cooker with me to Thailand and cooked a lot of my own meals whilst hitching and camping. I saved a fortune.
• Couchsurf: Couchsurfing is a brilliant way to save some dollars in your Thailand backpacking budget AND connect with locals – boom!
• Haggle:   Haggle your holy heart out ! A room, a trinket, a few g’s of mushies – doesn’t matter!
• Hitchhike:  In Thailand, it is so, so easy to thumb a ride and it is an ace way to keep your transport costs down and instead spend it on smashing experiences. So hitchhike as much as you can when backpacking Thailand.
• Keep it Local : Where possible drink the local beer, eat the local delicacies, and for day trips, try to use local companies. By using local companies you can haggle a bargain price that larger, international tour operators won’t offer. Plus supporting local businesses thrive is awesome!

Why Should You Travel to Thailand with a Water Bottle?

There’s nothing worse than showing up to a picture-perfect beach, only to discover plastic bottles littering the sand. Whilst there’s a lot that we can do when it comes to travelling responsibly , reducing your plastic consumption is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do.

Don’t buy one-use water bottles, don’t take plastic shopping bags, and forget straws. All of this just ends up in landfills or in the ocean.

One way to get around this is by investing in a  premium filtered travel bottle  like the Grayl Georpress. You can filter any kind of water, save money on buying endless plastic bottles – and sleep easy knowing you’re not contributing to the plastic bottles lining our beautiful beaches.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

So when is the best time to travel to Thailand ? The peak tourist season in Thailand is  November to February when the weather is beautiful across the country but there’s a high chance you’ll run into a ton of tourists.

The really popular guesthouses fill up fast so this is a country where it can definitely be worth making reservations. It is difficult to find cheaper accommodation during peak season. The local people are a really friendly bunch and keen to help so if you have any problems don’t be afraid to ask for directions from the locals.

It is best to avoid northern areas of Thailand from February to April as the burning season starts and mountains will slowly be covered in smoke.

Monsoon season is in the summer for most Thai islands, so you can chill on the beach and enjoy yourself!

What to Pack for Thailand

Wondering what to pack for Thailand ? On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Honestly, Thailand is quite safe to visit , and the people are keen on helping you out! Thailand has some pretty wild parties though, and it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, and be careful with drugs and alcohol when you’re out partying.

Being smart and trusting your gut are the keys to staying safe in Thailand. Look, if you follow standard backpacking safety tips , you should be fine.

I’d watch your drink when you’re out and keep an eye out for taxi scams. But honestly, most people don’t mean you any harm so as long as you keep your head down and have a good time – you’ll be more than ok.

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia.  Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of 3 crashes in Southeast Asia over the last 10 years. On one occasion I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to hospital. It was an expensive mistake.

The local people are sick of scraping foreigners off the road. And, trust me, you don’t look cool for not wearing a helmet.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ’n’ Roll in Thailand

Even though drugs are free-flowing in the half-moon and full moon parties, Thailand has very very strict laws against the possession of drugs including imprisonment and the death penalty. Except weed that is! Drug tourism is now legally a thing in Thailand since it became the first country in Asia to legalize (and sell) cannabis in 2022.

Shrooms are also easily available in both Pai and the islands and it is possible to pick up LSD and MDMA but the quality varies enormously and the price is usually high.

Every now and again, unfortunate backpackers do get roofied so be careful with your drinks and don’t accept random shit from strangers.

Tinder is awfully common in Thailand but more as a hookup app than a dating app. If you are a foreigner rocking up into Southeast Asia for the first time, you’re in for a treat as you will suddenly be about ten times more attractive to the local girls than you are back home.

And, I’d be avoiding the elephant in the room if I didn’t talk about the sex industry in Thailand. Everything is cheap in Asia, including the services of sex workers. This has led to an industry in Southeast Asia that can be very ethically murky.

Regardless of your opinion on sex working in general – and whether or not you engage with sex working services – there is no reason for you to not have respect for another human being. There are enough people in this world with bad intentions and rotten hearts.

But you know that. While love and sex on the road are bound to happen, you can still be a good human about it. 🙂

Travel Insurance for Thailand

Travelling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

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.

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.

The best place to fly into is Bangkok. International airports are also located at Krabi, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai, but it’s easier to fly into these from other Southeast Asian countries.

You can enter Thailand by border crossing from Malaysia, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. You can also take a boat from Indonesia or even a slow boat from Laos to Thailand  on the mighty Mekong River.

Entry Requirements for Thailand

Many nationalities can receive a 30-day free visa waiver on arrival (if arriving by air; it’s currently 15 days if you arrive overland). You can generally extend the waiver once, to receive an additional 30 days, for a fee of around $60.

COVID has changed the visa situation a little bit. Select countries are not required to have a visa for tourism purposes for up to 30 days, but those wishing to stay longer will still have to apply for an appropriate visa.

If your nationality requires a pre-arranged visa or you want to sort out a Thai visa in advance, particularly for a longer stay, it is fairly simple to receive one at a Thai embassy at home or abroad.

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Thailand is a pretty big country, and if you are short on time, you may want to consider taking the odd internal flight while backpacking in Thailand. AirAsia is a great low-cost airline but you need to book your tickets in advance before it fills up or the prices go up. You can also get around by train but this is often not as fast or punctual as travelling by bus.

Thailand is a relatively easy country to drive around, compared to many of the countries I’ve driven in any way, and many backpackers explore the country by motorbike . Most roads are marked in Thai and English so it is pretty straightforward to find your way around. If you bring a tent, you can sleep just about anywhere as well.

Night buses and overnight trains in Southeast Asia are a great way to save on a night’s accommodation and get from A to B. As a whole, Southeast Asia is generally pretty well connected by trains.

Luckily, Grab (similar to Uber) is now readily available in Thailand! Grab is hand’s down the best way to get around cities; the price is locked in on the app so you can’t get ripped off and you can skip the haggling.

Hitchhiking in Thailand

Thailand is a great country to hitchhike in! As far as hitching goes, Thailand is a great place in Asia for beginner hitchhikers earning their stripes. But you have to be persistent and make sure the locals understand where you need to go or you will end up getting dropped at a bus station.

Hitchhiking in Thailand is pretty safe and easy; just find a good spot where the traffic is nice and slow and stick out your thumb. If you are backpacking Thailand on your own, there is a good chance you can hitch a ride with motorbike riders.

Onwards Travel from Thailand

There are 4 countries that share a border with Thailand. Although neither China nor Vietnam border Thailand, their territories lie within 100 km of Thai territory and are easily accessible from Thailand. You can enter Thailand from any of these countries by flight, road, or boat.

Overall, unless you’re heading home or to backpack Australia to restock your travel budget, chances are you’ll be heading somewhere else in Southeast Asia.

• Backpacking Cambodia
• Backpacking Laos
• Backpacking Malaysia
• Backpacking Myanmar

While Thailand is relatively easy to backpack under your own volition, it remains a very popular country to explore by way of joining an organised tour. Organised tours are particularly valuable to those who are maybe inexperienced travelers, are short on time, or solo travelers in Thailand who would prefer to join a ready made friendly group of like minded folk.

If you are looking to backpacking around Thailand but don’t have the time to plan things yourself, then maybe take a look at  Feel Free Travel who are among the best providers of organised Thailand tours. Their flexible payment options, with deposits starting at under $2, make them every broke backpackers dream. Their  South to North: 15 day Thailand Group Tour  is very like much a ‘best of Thailand’ in a well thought out 2 week itinerary. You get experience a perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time and nightlife.

Lots of digital nomads have based themselves in Thailand and there are sizeable communities spread throughout the country (according to recent digital nomad stats ). You can thank Thailand’s low cost of living combined with a relatively high standard of living for this.

Chiang Mai is an extremely popular place and is not only of the best places in Thailand for digital nomads but arguably all of Asia. Gatherings, like Chiang Mai SEO Conference, happen every year and these are great opportunities to network.

Others prefer to work out of Bangkok or one of the more well-connected islands in the south, like Koh Samui. Honestly, though just about any major city in Thailand is a good place to base yourself if you’re a digital nomad.

The internet in Thailand has become increasingly more reliable and fast. You can get free wi-fi at most hostels, hotels, cafes, etc. In the cities, you’ll see that Thai people are always connected and on their phones. You can get a SIM card for data pretty cheaply.

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 .

Teaching English in Thailand

Teaching English in Thailand is an extremely popular way to extend your travels here! Most people signup for some sort of organized placement. In this case, most of their living expenses and teaching fees will be covered. These placements are predictably quite expensive.

It is possible to just start backpacking in Thailand and then find a job on the ground. If you had a TEFL license before, your odds of landing a gig while abroad would be much higher. That being said, they aren’t always mandatory.

If you wanted to become accredited, use MyTEFL . Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (using the code PACK50).

Volunteering in Thailand

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Thailand ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

Thailand is an incredible destination, but the low-income wages mean backpacker volunteers are greatly appreciated. There are loads of opportunities to make a difference, including farming, childcare, and English teaching.

There is also an increasing number of technical jobs available, such as web design and SEO. You won’t need a special visa if you’re staying for less than 30 days, but you’ll need a 60-day visa if you’re staying for longer. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Thailand, then we recommend that you signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with travelling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

The people in Thailand are some of the kindest and warmest people I have come across. The friendly aura of the Thai people is immediately noticed stepping off the plane, and despite Thailand being famous for its beaches and jungles, it’s the people I come back for.

Thais are friendly, unpretentious, and generous. I feel like as a traveller it’s still easy to make connections with Thais, whether it’s at the market or at a bar.

Moreover, Thais are pretty accepting of different sexualities. While backpacking Thailand you’ll hear about “ladyboys” a lot. Thai people widely accept transgender people, as well as same-sex couples. You may meet transgender people from across Southeast Asia who have ended up in Thailand precisely because it is so welcoming of LGBT travellers and people.

The Buddhist culture in Thailand preaches non-violence and acceptance, so most of the time it’s extremely difficult to get Thai people visibly angry or upset. But don’t mistake this for them not being upset.

Also, it’s frowned upon to get into loud disputes so keep that in mind when you’re drinking. You don’t want to get carried away if you’re trying to start a life in Thailand.

Useful Travel Phrases for Thailand

While many Thais speak English in touristy areas, once you get off the beaten path, you’ll find almost no one speaks English. Even in popular cities, only basic English is spoken.

Knowing Thai travel phrases is one of the best pieces of advice I can give you to help you get around Thailand. But it’ll also help you connect with the culture!

• Hello  – Sà-wàt-dee
• How are you?  – Sà-baai dee mi
• Pleased to meet you  – Yin dee têe dâi róo jàk
• Excuse me  – Kor tôht
• Please  – Kor …
• Cheers  – Chon
• Crazy  – Ding- dong! (Sounds adorable not offensive.)
• Son of a bitch  – Ai hee-ah (Now that sounds more effective!)
• Ladyboy – Katoey (Very useful to know this in Bangkok!)
• No plastic bag  – Mimi tihung phlastik
• No straw plastic please  – Mimi fang pord
• No plastic cutlery please  – Mimi mid phlastik pord
• Where’s the toilet?  – Hông náam yòo n?i (crucial if you’re a lover of spicy South East Asian food)
• Yes  – Chai
• No  – Ma Chai
• Beer  – Bia
• How much  – Nee Tao Rai

What to Eat in Thailand

Thai food is honestly amazing. Their noodles and curries are full of flavour without being too heavy. They know how to cook something mouthwatering out of thin air.

As well as tasting absolutely wonderful, Thai food is one of the healthiest foods in the world.

Prepared with fresh ingredients, vegetables, herbs, and either rice or noodles, each dish is different but delicious! emember eating a particularly fabulous papaya salad on the beach and thinking, damn how is this so simple but so good?

The other amazing thing about eating in Thailand is that it’s all done on the street. Everything you can possibly want to eat can all be found cheaply and accessibly from street carts. This is such a communal and special way of eating out and I’d highly recommend getting as many meals as possible from the best street food in the world !

Plus, the streets just always smell good… Oh, Thailand I miss you.

• Tom Yung Goong: A soup blended with fragrant lemongrass, chilli, lime leaves, shallots, and lime juice with fresh prawns and straw mushrooms.
• Red Curry: Red curry paste made with coconut milk and meat, as well as kaffir lime leaves.
• Pad Thai: A delicious noodle dish with a fish and peanut based sauce, as well as chili powder. This is probably the most internationally recognized dish in Thailand.
• Khao Soi: This soup-like rice noodle curry dish is the most popular dish in the North of Thailand. It’s made with deep fried and boiled egg noodles, pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime, ground chilies, and meat in coconut milk curry.

A Brief History of Thailand

Like much of Southeast Asia, Thailand was once roamed by hunter-gatherers before a series of kingdoms came to rise and fall. The first of these kingdoms were heavily influenced by India; some of the later by China and Malaysia. The Thai kingdom that the first European explorers came to know was in conflict with both the Burmese kingdoms and the Khmer kingdoms.

Unlike most of Southeast Asia, Thailand evaded European colonisation and had its own colonies. However, in 1893 Thailand was forced to cede Laos to France. Later they also ceded Cambodia to France and Malaysia to Britain. This obviously fostered some anti-imperial sentiments.

Thailand tried to remain neutral during World War II but eventually chose to ally with Japan who promised Thailand that their former colonies would be returned to them from Western Imperial powers. Japan invaded and there was always a lot of support for the Free Thailand movement due to atrocities like the Burma-Thailand railway, and constant bombing by the allies.

In May 1946, Thailand formed a new constitution for Thailand was published, but there were still power struggles between kings and the military. In 1947 Field-Marshal Phibul staged a coup, and Thailand then became a military dictatorship. The reason that Thailand remained close to the USA during the 20th century is that they were also anti-communist and were allied with the US against their Southeast Asian neighbours like Vietnam and Laos.

There was no unified support for the US, with many students wanting a more democratic and egalitarian society – not one led by kings and generals.

Over the decades, people protested for a civilian government, and in 1992 after many student demonstrations the king stopped eventually returned Thailand to civilian government, and a new constitution was introduced in 1997.

There was another military coup in Thailand in 2006, but in December 2007 democratic elections were held again. Yet, the royal family remain an important – if very controversial – staple in Thai life.

There is an increasingly large generation gap with many young people pushing for further democratic reforms and the older generation being content with the monarchy. However, in a lot of ways, this is a continuation of the tensions of the last century of the military vs the royalty vs democracy.

Thai people have put up with a lot and they are very proud of their country and willing to fight and make it a better place.

There is so damned much to see and do it Thailand! It’s a storied country with incredible scenery, a rich culture, and delicious food to enjoy.

However, if there’s one activity that stands out more than any other as a unique experience in Thailand… it’s SCUBA diving. Truly, the diving here is off the charts incredible but it’s also affordable to get your certification. This is where many people dive for the first time and become HOOKED.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Scuba Diving in Thailand

Thailand has some of the world’s best scuba diving venues (psst – the Similan Islands are sublime). The problem is, the word is out. Millions of tourists flock to Thailand every year to enjoy the wonderful diving the country has to offer.

You can get your certification in Koh Tao or Koh Samui but it’s other islands that take the cake when it comes to the best diving. Anywhere in the Andaman Sea is going to put on a delightful show for you. The soft corals are glorious here, as are the multitude of sea life they attract.

Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi islands give you a good chance of swimming with manta rays, while the more offbeat Surin Islands give you a better opportunity for swimming with whale sharks. The more offbeat islands like the Surins or Similans are best explored by liveaboard. Because unless you have your own boat being on a liveaboard is the only way to get out here.

Luckily some of the best liveaboard experiences are right here in Thailand! Eat, sleep, dive, repeat. That is the name of the game. Sounds pretty sweet, right?

You’ve got questions about backpacking in Thailand and we’ve got answers! Before you head off, ask your questions and do your research to have a more enjoyable trip once you arrive.

Is Thailand a good place to go backpacking?

Oh yes, it is! Thailand is often people’s first experience with backpacking. This is because it’s affordable, beautiful, and easy to get around. You won’t run out of things to do in Thailand – nor will you go broke doing them! It’s a great place to begin your backpacking adventures.

How much does it cost to go backpacking in Thailand?

Thailand is not as cheap as the rest of Southeast Asia but it’s still possible to travel here for $10 – $15 per day.

What should I avoid doing in Thailand?

You should avoid unethical elephant tourism attractions, for one. There are some other overrated experiences like most of Phuket, but the biggest thing in my opinion is to avoid animal cruelty.

Is Thailand safe for solo female travellers?

Yep! Thailand is very safe for female travellers. You should still take the usual precautions to keep yourself safe, but the country is, on the whole, safe for female travellers to travel to.

What is considered rude in Thailand?

Avoid pointing your feet at people as they are considered the dirtiest part of the body. A lesser-known no-no is not getting into public or loud confrontations with people. It’s very taboo to be up in someone else’s space – especially if you’re angry.

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Thailand is a country that too many people barely scratch the surface of. It’s easy to get caught up in the party going, drunken blur and forget to actually visit Thailand. But it’s also easy to get caught up in the cynicism and avoid Thailand altogether.

Both would be a mistake.

This country has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty and rich cultural history. I ended up making some really close friendships with some of the Thai people I met while living here – and this was truly special for me.

Thailand can become a home away from home loaded with all the imperfections and joys of your motherland. Buuuttttt, the food is better here. 😉

So be good to Thailand. Enjoy what is sure to be an epic adventure in the land of blessed coral reefs, jungle mountains, and pad Thai. And make sure you leave the campsite cleaner than you found it, so to speak. We want to make sure that those who come after us are able to have an epic adventure in Thailand too.

Hopefully, I’ll see you somewhere in the north of Thailand one day as we both go on an epic Southeast Asian backpacking Thailand adventure. Until then, peace out!

• Check out all the best places to visit in Thailand for planning the most dope trip.
• We’ve also got where to stay in Thailand covered with our epic guide.
• You’ll also wanna stay in the best hostels in Thailand too!
• Our ultimate Thailand packing list has all the info you’ll ever need.
• Sort out your travel insurance for Thailand before your trip.
• Get your international sim card for Thailand organised to avoid hassle.
• Thailand is just the start of your awesome backpacking trip around Southeast Asia .

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!

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23 Comments

Hi Really want to travel without a detailed itinerary, I’m an older woman who has never travelled so far before but I have been planning it for most of my life, my kids have all left home but now with the pandemic find myself in two minds if now is the right time to go, any advice would be a grat help. Thanks

Actually, we have an article just for incredible humans like you… Give it a read!

Honestly, just do it. There’s a lot to learn, but also, there’s only so much you can learn until you get out there and live it, ya feel? I guess the two biggest questions is…

• Howdo you want to travel? (Just because you’re itinerary-free doesn’t mean you have to backpack.)
• Where do you want to go? (Thailand and the more basic countries in Southeast Asia like Malaysia or The Philippines are good choices. Or somewhere more developed, but remember that some Western hostels have age limits – that’s a whole separate rant.

In summary though: shit yeah! Do it. 😉

Backpacking in Thailand sounds like fun! I mean it’s pretty cheap, the food is great and the culture is interesting. Not being biased at all of course, having lived in Thailand for a while now 😉 I really want to go to Pai someday. Have been thinking about it for a while but somehow still never managed to go. After hearing all the wonderful things about Pai and seeing the amazing nature, I just need to just book a flight to the north asap! Thanks for sharing!

How easy or difficult 😉 is it to find weed in Chiang Mai? Are the police strict up there?

Police would be strict, but they’re not everywhere. You can ask around at hostels or in the night markets from people who (often discreetly) sell weed-related paraphernalia. There’s also a lady in a restaurant in the walled city that wears an orange apron with a cannabis leaf. Maybe give her a shout…

Thank you for everything you mentioned here!!!

I just went through blog and planned, executed my 15 days travel in Thailand.

Anytime! We hope you had a great time in Thailand!

Thailand is in my all-time top 5 – I loved it! You are a brave soul to be hitchhiking and camping! And I don’t mean cause it’s Thailand I just mean in general. This is a great resource that I am bookmarking for my next trip! Thanks for making it so detailed…

Hi, very well put together!! Lots of great information!! We spend a lot of time in Phuket , volunteering with the Soi Dog Foundation, which looks after 1000 rescue dogs and cats at any one time. A lot of the dogs have been rescued from the illegal dog meat trade, many were abused, run over by cars, neglected etc. They are a fantastic organization, that runs off donations and sponsorships and they manage to adopt a lot of these dogs and cats out in Thailand and to Europe, UK, USA and Canada

Then there is the Phuket Government Pound in Mai Khao in Phuket, where about 600 to 700 dogs live and they also need volunteers desperately, as they have a very small staff and only a few volunteers that keep the place ticking over.

Volunteering with the dogs is the most amazing rewarding experience, you meet many people from all around the world and make instant and lasting friends. Many volunteers that come for a week, have ended up staying for months and some even years!!

Both these organizations are also looking for travelers who are flying back home and are willing to be a flight volunteer to assist with getting some dogs to their forever home, at no cost what so ever.

If there is anything else you want to know, let me know and I’ll do my best to answer any questions. If you decide to volunteer or want to find out more, please look up soidog.org or Toni for the Animals on Facebook.

Hello, quick question: I am looking to go to Thailand in May and am planning my trip now. Thank you for your awesome guide! Do you think its best the secure hostels as you go? I will be traveling for 11 days and am wondering how far in advance should I book places to stay.

Whilst I cannot guarantee that every hostel in Thailand will be available, I can say that the odds of finding a free hostel the day-of are very, very high. I’ve traveled to many places in Thailand without booking anything and have never failed to find somewhere with vacancy. To be honest, I sometimes prefer more finding hostels as I travel instead of booking them ahead of time because it’s more fun!

Great tips for backpacking Thailand, I’ve visited the country some years ago and I’m planning to come back soon. I think we were totally wrong choosing August to visit Thailand, the touristic spots were crowed and street vendors too aggressive sometimes, but less crowed places such as khao sok were totally amazing

Great post, I’ll be backpacking Thailand for one month and this post is useful to plan my trip

Haven’t been to Mindful Farm, it looks interesting when I watched the video. Will definitely add that in my itinerary when I go back in Chiang Mai

Thanks you! I am rightnow on my journey trough thailand and this post helped me a lot!

I’m headed to Thailand in a couple of weeks! First time backpacker traveling solo! Excited to see what Thailand has to offer and experience my firs time traveling solo. Thank you for the great content, I’ll be using your website as a resource.

Great post. thanks for sharing.

Wonderful post! How long would you recommend someone stay in Thailand to hit all of the must-sees/dos?

At least a month.

Backpacking Thailand on The Cheap

Great guidance and tips. I hope to be traveling very soon, so this blog is timely for me. Great work.

Cheers Sharon…

Thank You for this! It was really helpful 🙂

You’ve written an amazing resource for traveling in Thailand that even a nonbackpacker like myself can use. Went to Thailand last year with family (2 kids), Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. We loved Chiang Mai so much that we are planning to move there to live in the next two years. Heard good things about Pai, so would definitely visit since it’s not far from Chiang Mai. I’ve also talked about volunteering with my wife, and will be sure to check out Love Volunteers to see what is available.

Great insights and there are so many reasons to backpack in Thailand. I love backpacking anywhere every time I have a chance.

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Backpacking Thailand: The Ultimate Guide 2024

Backpacking Thailand is one of the best experiences I have ever had. For budget travellers, Thailand is an absolute must. In fact, some may consider it a “rite of passage”.

Thailand is the most popular country for backpacking and for good reason. It has so much to offer from culture to islands, from food to animals – Thailand truly has it all.

Naturally, you might have some questions before setting off on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Thailand. Luckily for you, I am a full-time backpacker and most of my content focuses on Southeast Asia.

So I created this guide which covers everything you need to know before taking on Thailand on a budget.

Why you should backpack Thailand

There are a million reasons to visit Thailand , way more than I can fit into one paragraph.

To sum it up, it’s both easy and rewarding.

“What do you mean by easy?”, I hear you ask. As part of the Banana Pancake Trail , Thailand is one of the most popular backpacking countries there are.

This means that there is a well-connected network of hostels, cheap buses and backpacking communities.

Many Thai people also speak English , which makes communication much easier than if you chose to backpack Central America, for example. Another huge reason for backpacking Thailand (or Southeast Asia) is how cheap it is , but I’ll go into that later.

As for the rewarding aspect, Thailand has so much to offer. The culture of South-East Asia is completely different to anywhere else in the world , you HAVE to experience it at least once in your life.

There are so many different temples to explore, foods to taste, mountains to hike and more . Not to mention how welcoming the Thai people are. They always have a smile on their face!

Backpacking Thailand will create memories that stay with you for a lifetime.

Is backpacking Thailand safe?

Obviously, I cannot guarantee your safety, but I can reassure you that Thailand is a very safe country to solo travel .

As I said, there is an extensive network of backpackers, meaning that you are never truly alone.

You will always meet people in hostels, in bars and clubs, or out doing something fun. South-East Asia is widely accepted as the safest place to go backpacking.

By the way, make sure you know the drinking age in Thailand before you go into any bars or clubs to meet people.

How much does backpacking Thailand cost?

As I said, backpacking in South-East Asia is very cheap. For the average backpacker, b ackpacking Thailand will “only” cost around $1500 USD each month. That’s just $50 each day.

In some places, this can work out cheaper than paying your monthly bills! There’s a reason backpacking Southeast Asia, Central America , etc. is so popular.

Obviously, it depends on how you are as a backpacker. You could go ultra budget traveller and spend only $1000 a month, or travel with a bit more luxury and spend $2000 a month.

Your main expenses will be food, accommodation, travel and activities. Here is a rough guideline for how much to expect to pay each day.

As you can see, activities make up the largest part of the cost. So the amount of activities you do really determines your monthly cost for backpacking Thailand.

Activities in Thailand are still considerably “cheap” compared to Western prices, but if you do activities a few times a week, they quickly add up.

I created a budget calculator for backpacking Thailand and other popular backpacking destinations which you can use to estimate how much you will need for your trip.

Do you need a visa to backpack Thailand?

Most nationalities receive a 30-day Visa exemption. This includes Americans, Australians and most European countries.

You can check if you are eligible on the Thai embassy website .

You can also purchase a 30-day Visa extension while in Thailand, this costs about $50.

Alternatively, you can purchase a 60-day Visa for $50 before arrival, but it’s pretty pointless if you can have 30 days for free before deciding if you want to stay longer.

If you want to stay in Thailand for longer without needing a visa, you can take border runs to Cambodia or Laos.

When to backpack Thailand

There is no real answer to this as Thailand is an amazing country and is well worth a visit at any time of the year. That being said, Thailand experiences a monsoon season (heavy rains and floods) and this falls from July to October. I would recommend between November and February. You can expect temperatures on average of around 77°F (25°C).

How to get to Thailand

The most common and easiest way to get to Thailand is to fly into Bangkok. Coming from Europe or the US, you might find it difficult to get a direct flight at a good price. It often works out cheaper to have a stopover in Qatar. You can expect an indirect flight to Bangkok to cost around $400 , however, you can find it cheaper if you are flexible with dates using sites like SkyScanner .

How to travel while in Thailand

While in Thailand, you will do most of your travel on a bus. They are extremely cheap considering the distance of the journeys. For example, you can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (a 10-hour journey) for under $20.

The downside of buses in Thailand is that they often aren’t the best of conditions. This is usually fine for short trips, but for longer journeys, you may wish to consider a sleeper train. Don’t worry, I will tell you where and when to get these in the itineraries 🙂

There isn’t Uber in Thailand unfortunately. Though there is Grab , which is the next best thing. It’s pretty affordable and is used all throughout Southeast Asia.

What to bring to Thailand

When backpacking it is important to have the essentials but as little as possible. Do not overpack! You will regret it. There are essentials for any backpacking trip that you should bring, but on top of this, there are a few items that may be particularly useful for Thailand:

• Universal Charger Adapter – Thailand has a mix of American and European sockets so it is important to have both.
• Travel-friendly credit card – important to avoid the large processing fees, I recommend Revolut for Thailand .
• Padlock – used to keep your locker locked in hostels
• Day bag – you don’t want to carry your full backpack around every day!

Make sure you pack appropriate clothes for temples too. You won’t be allowed in otherwise. A general rule of thumb is to cover your shoulders and knees.

Backpacking Thailand Top Tips

Setting out on a long backpacking trip, or a solo backpacking trip can be intimidating. Not to worry! There are lots of general tips for travelling on a budget , but I’ve created some specifically for Thailand. So here are 5 amazing tips for backpacking Thailand:

• Keep your Netflix subscription – those bus journeys can be long, and you’ll want something to keep yourself entertained! There are some other apps I recommend having for Thailand too.
• Don’t get a taxi without agreeing on a fee before – taxi drivers will often try to scam you claiming their meter is “broken”
• Don’t overplan – it’s so easy to be spontaneous in Thailand, embrace it!
• Don’t drink the tap water – tap water in Thailand is not safe or clean, and don’t brush your teeth with it either! You can buy water cheaply throughout Thailand.
• Get your vaccinations – you usually need at least Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus before going. You may also wish to get Rabies and some other vaccines.
• Buy an eSIM – getting a Thai eSIM works out much cheaper than buying a SIM card at the airport. Their packages are so overpriced, and eSIMs remove all stress.
• Consider a group tour – there are many great budget group tours of Thailand that take you to all the best destinations and make it really easy to get an amazing Thailand experience.
• Keep track of timezones – it can be easy to lose track of time in Thailand, but make sure you always know the time at home for keeping in touch with your loved ones. For me, for example, the time difference with the UK is 6-7 hours.

Backpacking Thailand Itineraries

Backpacking Thailand is something that shouldn’t be rushed. I would highly encourage spending at least 4 weeks in the country, but I understand not everyone can commit to that. I have constructed 3 amazing itineraries for backpacking Thailand which you can follow.

However, I strongly encourage you not to book things ahead of time, it is so easy to be spontaneous in Thailand and make plans last minute . Often these things make for the best memories!

Choose your Itinerary here:

1 Week Backpacking Thailand Itinerary

If you only have one week in Thailand, you are going to want to see as much of the country as possible without rushing it. I have given you a few choices to make, as otherwise, you would be going places just for the sake of going there, and not getting a true sense of Thailand.

Day 1 and Day 2: Bangkok

After landing at Bangkok airport, you will spend your first and second days in the Thai capital. There are so many backpacking must-dos here such as the Floating Market, or simply walking down Khao San Road .

Bangkok isn’t expensive either so it’s a great introduction to the way of life in Thailand. The culture shock was real for me, but I loved it.

When staying in Bangkok, I recommend the Niras Bankoc Cultural Hostel. It’s right in the centre of Bangkok and has an amazing backpacking community, not to mention the cheap price. Book your stay here .

After two amazing days backpacking Bangkok , book a sleeper train to either Chiang Mai OR Phuket . You can book sleeper trains in Thailand through 12go . It should cost about $20.

Day 3 and Day 4: Chiang Mai OR Phuket

Due to the limited time you have in Thailand, you should choose between Chiang Mai OR Phuket. They are at opposite ends of the country so it is impossible to visit them both in one week without spending half your time in Thailand travelling.

Why choose Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a beautiful inland city surrounded by extraordinary mountains . This northern part of Thailand is full of jungles, hiking routes and elephant sanctuaries. If the outdoors is your thing, Chiang Mai is the option for you. In my opinion, there are so many reasons Chiang Mai is worth visiting .

When staying in Chiang Mai, I recommend Smile Robotist Hostel . This is one of my favourite ever hostels. The owner is so friendly and helpful and the hostel has a really home-like feel to it. Book your stay here .

Why choose Phuket?

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest beach resort . The beaches are some of the nicest in the world, it’s a great place to go for snorkelling, diving or just enjoying being by the sea. If you prefer to relax, choose Phuket.

When staying in Phuket, I recommend Phuket Sunny Hostel. As with all my suggestions, it’s such great value for money. Only $7 a night but for an amazing hostel ( with a working AC! ). Book your stay here .

Day 5 and Day 6: Pai OR Koh Phi Phi

If you chose Chiang Mai as the last option, you will be visiting Pai. If you chose Phuket as the last option, you will be visiting Koh Phi Phi.

You can get from Chiang Mai to Pai on a bus for around $6. It should take around 3 hours on the bus. Pai is a lovely place to relax and spend even more time outdoors . Pai is home to even more hiking routes to see some of Thailand’s natural beauty.

When staying in Pai, I recommend Darling View Point Bungalows. The clue’s in the name! It’s in an amazing area, and the host here is especially welcoming. Book your stay here .

Kho Phi Phi

You can get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi via a ferry which costs around $10 and takes just under two hours. It’s a lovely journey though! Koh Phi Phi is a beautiful set of Thai islands, an amazing way to continue the relaxation from Phuket . The Phi Phi islands are amazing again for swimming, snorkelling, and the lot, just look how blue that water is!

When staying in Koh Phi Phi, I recommend the Voyagers Hostel. This hostel has an amazing backpacking community and is located in an amazing location, just a minute’s walk from the beach. Book your stay here .

Day 7: Bangkok

Assuming you are flying out of Bangkok again, you will want to make your way back here for your last day. Simply follow the transport you took but in reverse. One last thing to do in Bangkok before going to the airport is to make sure you have seen its beautiful temples. They aren’t to be slept on! Taking a Bangkok temple tour is one of the best things you can do in the city.

2 Week Backpacking Thailand Itinerary

Two weeks in Thailand is enough time to see the most popular places, however, it is a tightly packed schedule! I would still encourage you to spend as much time as you can in Thailand.

You can’t backpack Thailand without exploring Bangkok. There’s an endless list of things to do in Bangkok from visiting Wat Pho to taking a bat along the Chao Phraya River . This is the heart of backpacking Thailand, and you’ll be sure to have an amazing experience.

Day 3 and Day 4: Chiang Mai

Head up north to Chiang Mai, the best option is to get a sleeper train as the journey is pretty long. In Chiang Mai you can go on endless jungle hikes and spend time with Thailand’s national animal: the elephant.

Day 5 and Day 6: Chiang Rai

Take a 3-4 hour bus journey for about $7 and you’ve made it to Chiang Rai! Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost major city. These northern highlands are designed for exploration. It is temples galore up in Chiang Rai! My favourite is the Blue Temple, but the most famous is the White Temple.

When staying in Chiang Rai, I recommend Get Hi Hostel. The reviews for this place say enough. It’s THE backpacking hub in Chiang Rai. Book your stay here .

Day 7 and Day 8: Phuket

Trying to squeeze the north and south of Thailand into a 2-week timeframe is tough! To get from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai to Phuket, you can either fly or take a very long (20+ hours!) train. I suggest flying. Once in Phuket, you are in a whole new world . The beaches are amazing and there are so many things to do!

Day 9 to Day 12: Island hopping

From Phuket, there are endless opportunities to go island hopping. Take your pick from the Phi Phi islands, see Phang Nga Bay or even the Surin Islands, there are so many options to choose from and you could easily spend a lifetime island hopping the south of Thailand.

Day 13: Krabi Town

Split the journey between Phuket and Bangkok by spending a night in Krabi Town. Another beautiful seaside town with a lot to offer, you’ll wish you had more time to spend . Then get the bus early the next day and make your way back to Bangkok for Day 14 and prepare to fly home.

When staying in Krabi Town, I recommend Kbunk Hostel. It has everything there is to need, from restaurants to bars, everything is on your doorstep. Book your stay here .

4 Week Backpacking Thailand Itinerary

Spending four weeks in Thailand allows you to see all of the main selling points. As well as going off the beaten track. That being said, four weeks still won’t show you all of Thailand. You could spend a lifetime here.

For spending 4 weeks in Thailand, I would suggest following the 2-week itinerary but spending an extra day or two in each place. That will allow you to see pretty much all the major attractions. On top of this, you may wish to visit somewhere a little more off the beaten track:

• Kanchanaburi
• Koh Tao (great for PADI courses)

Most of these are beautiful islands in the south of Thailand.

Things to do in Thailand

Backpacking Thailand is filled with fun adventures and activities. It’s impossible to make a list of everything there is to do. Instead, I have compiled a list of 5 must-dos when backpacking Thailand. In no particular order,

• Party like never before at the Full Moon Party

The most famous party for backpackers around the world is the Full Moon Party. Held in Ko Pha-ngan, the Full Moon Party is a huge festival that runs all through the night, with 30,000+ in attendance. Held every month or so, it’s a must-do when visiting Thailand!

• Get your PADI – Scuba Diving Certification

Thailand is renowned for its unbelievable diving spots. There’s no better place to get your PADI for this reason alone, but on top of this, it’s incredibly cheap! It costs around $300 compared to $700+ in the Western world. I did mine with Koh Tao Roctopus .

Once qualified, you’ll see a whole new world by diving in Thailand , it’s indescribable. You can see sharks in Thailand too which is cool!

• Interact with Elephants (ethically)

There is a lot of controversy around the livelihood of elephants in Thailand. Please never ride these beautiful animals, they are not designed for it and these elephants are treated so badly, please look into this if you are unaware.

Instead, visit a morally appropriate elephant sanctuary that allows the elephants to roam freely and does not force them into human interaction. It can create some of the most special memories!

• Eat Street Food

It’s impossible to not eat street food when backpacking Thailand. Street food is the best option there is. It’s so so cheap but tastes so so good. Also, it’s the most authentic form of Thai food you can get, you watch it being cooked right in front of you after all! When you go to Chiang Mai, I recommend the Chiang Mai Gate Market . If you ask me, it’s one of the best in all of Thailand.

• Get a Thai Massage

Similarly, it would be a sin to visit Thailand without getting an authentic Thai massage. Be prepared though, they can hurt! If you have a low pain threshold or don’t want to have your back feeling like an elephant’s just stampeded over it, there are other options in the massage parlours, like a normal oil massage. But make sure to get some form of massage while in Thailand!

Backpacking Thailand: The Wrap Up

And there you have it, a complete guide to backpacking Thailand.

It is one of the most amazing countries in the world and you will not regret visiting, regardless of how long your trip is. Hopefully, you leave feeling more confident about backpacking Thailand.

Now that you know everything there is to know about visiting Thailand, it’s time to start planning things to do. Did you know you can surf in Phuket ?

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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Thailand Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 22, 2024

Thailand is the travel hub of Southeast Asia . It’s the region’s most visited country and most backpackers make it their starting point for traveling around the region.

With its lush jungles, postcard perfect beaches, world-class diving, mind-blowing cuisine, and cheap prices, Thailand is actually my favorite country in the world! I’ve been coming to the country since 2005, lived there for 2 years, and always seem to be pulled back. It’s an easy country to travel and, because of the backpacker scene, you can meet a lot of other people there. It’s just a phenomenal country.

Since the country is such a well-worn destination, everything here is convenient and easy. You won’t have any trouble traveling around here. But, despite the crowds, there are still many off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore.

This Thailand travel guide will show you how to travel the country like a pro, give you suggested costs, the best things to see and do, ways to get around, and everything in between.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Thailand

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in thailand.

1. Visit Bangkok

Bangkok is a chaotic, must-see city. Here you can explore temples, royal palaces, amazing markets, one of the craziest nightlife scenes in the world, and, of course, eat all the amazing Thai food. Check out Khao San Road to see the backpacker’s haven, Thong Lor/Ekamai for local Thai nightlife, see the Grand Palace’s beautiful artwork and the emerald Buddha, and shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market. Bangkok is an onion that requires time to peel back. Wander off the tourist trail, eat the markets, explore the nightlife, and just relax.

2. Adventure around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city filled with lots temples, incredible food markets, night markets, lots of cafes, and a chill vibe. It’s a good launching pad for multi-day jungle tours, adventure activities, or visits to the nearby elephant sanctuarys where you can volunteer to help rescued elephants. And be sure to head to Wat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most famous temple (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of Buddha himself). Chiang Mai is also consdiered one of the foodie capitals of the country so be sure to get your fill of food. There’s also a big jazz scene here too!

3. Hike in Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park , located about 2.5 hours north of Bangkok, is one of Thailand’s best national parks. It’s visually stunning, filled with lush flora and fauna, lots of waterfalls, hiking trails, and even a few wild elephants. It’s an absolute must-visit place. Stay at the Greenleaf Guesthouse for the best tour/accommodation deals in the area.

4. Celebrate Songkran

Every April, Thais celebrate their new year by holding an enormous, three-day water fight. Songkran is meant to wash away the old and begin the year anew. This once-in-a-lifetime water party is the biggest in Bangkok and Chiang Mai so book your hostel ahead of time. In Bangkok, there’s an opening ceremony at Wat Pho temple where they bathe the Buddha. The whole country turns into a big water fight and everyone plays along. If you’re around Songkran, be prepared to get wet everywhere you go those days (so keep your electronics sealed in plastic). Everyone outside is fair game.

5. Go to Ko Lanta

While Ko Lanta has become more developed in recent years, it’s still a paradise compared to its more developed neighbors. Wide, white sand beaches, cheap and delicious food, gorgeous sunsets, great caves, snorkeling, and diving make this one of my favorite spots in the country. It’s a really chill place where you still get a a taste of old Thailand. For fun day trips, check out the Trang Islands, with their beautiful limestone formations stretching out of the water or head to Ko Rok for kayaking. Ko Lanta is one of the best islands in all of Thailand.

Other Things to See and Do in Thailand

1. visit the grand palace and wat pho.

Thailand’s royal palace, built at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I, is the official residence of the current monarch (though he doesn’t live there anymore; now it’s just used for ceremonies). It’s a striking place filled with numerous temples, including Wat Pra Kaeo, which houses the 15th-century Emerald Buddha. The architecture here is absolutely stunning. I highly recommend taking a guided tour as the signage here is minimal. Nearby Wat Pho is famous for two things: a 150 foot (46 meters) reclining Buddha statue and a very relaxing massage school. The temple is wonderful and the statue really impressive. Both can be done back-to-back and should definitely not be missed. It costs 500 THB to enter the Grand Palace and 200 THB to enter Wat Pho.

2. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in the south of Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best national parks in the country, offering incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. The park offers semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife (including sun bears, elephants, gibbons, and more), walking paths, and incredible sunsets. Park entrance costs 200 THB. Half-day guided treks cost 940 THB. Try to spend at least one night sleeping on the lake as the stargazing is top notch.

3. Hop around the ancient capitals

Thailand’s three ancient capitals — Sukhothai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya — lie between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Visiting them on your way north is a unique way to head between the cities. Lopburi, which is so old it is mentioned in texts by Marco Polo, was the capital in the mid-17th century while Sukhothai, founded in 1238, was the capital for over 140 years between the 13th and 14th centuries. Lopburi is famous for it’s monkeys (watch out as they are aggressive) and Sukothai is a massive complex that sees very few tourists! My favorite is Ayutthaya, which is located about 1.5 hours from Bangkok by train. It was the capital of Siam from 1350-1767 (it was razed in 1767 by the Burmese during the Burmese-Siamese War). You can visit on a day trip for just 900 THB.

4. Relax on the tropical islands

Thailand has tons of beautiful tropical islands. Some are grossly overdeveloped are still an undeveloped tropical paradise with few people and cheap accommodation. Some of my favorite spots are Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang , Ko Tao , Ko Jum, Ko Lipe , the Similan Islands, and Ko Samui. It’s hard to go wrong here as they all have beautiful beaches but the atmosphere of the islands will decide how much you enjoy it so think about whether you want to prioritize peace, parties, activities, etc. Some of the most chill beaches have fewer activities and accommodation options while more touristy places provide a range of lodging and tons of activities and parties but can sometimes be a bit intense. Be sure to do your research before you select a spot.

5. Hit the Full Moon Party

There’s no better party in the world than the famous Full Moon Party . The Full Moon Party is a giant festival-like party with a lot of drinking, dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling glow-in-the-dark face paint. Sure, it is super touristy, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a lot of fun if that’s your vibe. Just don’t take part in the fire jump rope — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

6. Go jungle trekking

There are some great multi-day jungle trekking opportunities in northern Thailand. For longer treks, the biggest departure points are Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. You can book these sorts of outings through the hostel or hotel you’re staying in. While day-trips are popular and cheap, try to head out for at least 3-4 days as you’ll be able to get to much more remote areas and see some incredible wildlife (there are tons of birds and bats, as well as lizards, monkeys, and even wild boars) as well as some gorgeous waterfalls. If you book online ahead of time, you will pay more. Skip the shorter day hikes that include meeting “authentic” hill tribes; they are exploitative and the visits are usually unethical. Expect to pay around 5,000 THB for a three-day tour.

7. Scuba dive in the Similan Islands

Scuba diving is a popular activity here because of the crystal-clear waters and majestic sea life. While you can dive all over the country, the Similan Islands offer some of the best uncrowded diving. Given the islands’ remote location, most of these dive trips last a few nights. If you dive here, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, as the reef there is home to plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 5,900 THB for two dives, including equipment and park fees.

8. Learn to cook

Thai food is delicious and it’s relatively easy to cook. There are cooking schools all over the country but the best are in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. It’s a fun experience as you’ll get to spend a day making and eating (hopefully delicious) food. I loved being able to go to the market and pick out my fresh ingredients and then learning how to make my own paste for a delicious green curry and a tasty shrimp pad Thai. A half-day cooking class in Bangkok (including a market visit) costs around 1,300 THB. Chiang Mai also has lots of cooking classes and, if you make it to Ko Lanta, Time for Lime is my favorite cooking school in the country.

9. Explore the Khmer temples in Isaan

There are many temples built throughout the Isaan region , all along the ancient roads connecting Angkor (the capital of the Khmer Empire) to the other villages. The largest of these is Phimai, located at the end of the ancient highway. It dates to the 11th century and is one of the largest Hindu Khmer temples in Thailand (and hardly anyone visits so you’ll get the place mostly to yourself). Two other magnificent Khmer temples (Phanom Rung and Muang Tum) can be found in the Buriram province, only a few kilometers apart. Phanom Rung is built on top of a hill, and Muang Tum is at the base of the hill. While in Isaan, be sure to spend a day or two in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) and visit Wat Ban Rai and Wat Phayap, two beautiful local temples that I especially love.

10. Take the day train to Chaing mai

Taking the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is not only cheaper but a much better way to see the countryside than the night train. Sure, you “waste” a day, but you see the countryside, experience how Thais take the train, and can eat from vendors coming on and off at every stop. The day train remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a good book as the journey is 10-13 hours long! You can also break up the journey by stopping in Lopburi and Sukothai.

11. Visit Elephant Nature Park

While you can come to Thailand and ride an elephant, once you know how they suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about this unethical activity. An even better way to get up-close-and-personal to the animals is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and letting you help these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will know why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs 2,500 THB for adults.

12. Admire Wat Doi Suthep

This stunning Buddhist temple lies in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, 16 kilometers (10 miles) outside of Chiang Mai. A tram or a trek up 300 steps takes you to the summit of Doi Suthep, where the glittering gold temple spire awaits you. The temple dates back to the 14th century and holds rare relics of Buddha. It’s too beautiful of a view to miss, so don’t leave Chiang Mai without visiting Wat Doi Suthep. Admission is free.

13. Visit the Golden Triangle

The point where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River is known as the Golden Triangle. It’s also the meeting point of Laos , Thailand, and Myanmar. Once known for its opium production (which is used to make heroin), today the region thrives on tourism. You can take a boat along the river and visit the Golden Triangle Park, check out some of the many Buddha statues, scenic viewpoints, and markets. It’s just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) north of Chiang Saen. Golden Triangle day trips from Chiang Mai cost around 2,200 THB. If you’d rather visit solo, you can visit the region from Mae Sai or Chiang Saen via songthaew. Don’t miss the Hall of Opium, one of the most interesting museums in the entire country. It explores the history of opium production, shows how it was made and trafficked around the world, and more.

14. Party on Ko Phi Phi

Ko Phi Phi is one of the most popular tourist islands in Thailand. From the infamous Maya Bay (made famous in the 2000 film, The Beach , with Leonardo DiCaprio) to the monkeys on the aptly named Monkey Beach, to the diving and nightlife, there are reasons people flock here. Destroyed by the tsunami in 2004, the island has been rebuilt and developed to an even greater extent than before. While I personally don’t love Ko Phi Phi , it’s nevertheless one of the most popular places in the country. You’ll just have to see for yourself whether it’s for you.

15. Relax on Ko Lipe

Located in southern Thailand, this semi-off the map island is one of my favorite places in the world. Here on Ko Lipe , the super friendly locals bring in the daily catch for amazing seafood meals. The beaches are beautiful, the water is warm, and the island is cheap. I came for three days and ended up staying a month. In the last few years, it has become more developed and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be, but it’s still way less developed than many other destinations in Thailand. Moreover, you’re near a pristine and undeveloped national marine park where you can snorkel and enjoy some beaches to yourself! It lives up to all the hype.

16. Explore Kanchanaburi Province

This region is home to a lush forest perfect for trekking, though the history of this area is rather dark. The infamous Death Railway linking Myanmar and Thailand runs through here, which was constructed during World War II by prisoners of war and civilians. Around 90,000 Southeast Asian civilian forced laborers and more than 12,000 Allied prisoners perished in the railway’s construction. The bridge over the River Kwai is also located here, built using POW labor and the subject of both a famous film and a book. While visiting is a haunting reminder, it is an essential part of Thailand’s history.

17. Motorbike through Northern Thailand

There are lots of picturesque routes for motorbiking all around the country, but especially near Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Many people rent bikes and tour the scenery, taking a day trip or a few days. The Mai Hong Son Province offers a great loop that you can do starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai. Note: Make sure that if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it and never (ever) drink and drive. Accidents are incredibly common.

18. Relax in Pai

Pai has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great place to escape the crowds and noise of the larger cities. In the last few years, it’s become a big center for yoga and holistic living. Located in Northern Thailand, it’s nestled in rolling green mountains, surrounded by waterfalls, and incredible hiking trails. While I wasn’t a huge fan of Pai itself but I loved the area. I spent a lot of time hiking and swimming. Be sure to take a day trip to the Tham Lot Caves, where you can stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot springs on the way there. It’s an awesome experience.

19. Bounce around Phuket province

Phuket is the biggest destination for tourism in Thailand. There are great beaches and amazing activities on this island, and if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the over-development and crowds. The more north you go, the more relaxed it is. Phuket draws a lot of tourists, and if you really want to enjoy the area, get out of the main spots. Don’t miss visiting Wat Chalong, hiking to the Karon Viewpoint, and visiting the weekend Night Market.

For information on specific destinations in Thailand, check out the following guides:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Ko Phi Phi Travel Guide
• Phuket Travel Guide

( Hey there! Wait one second! Did you know I also wrote an entire guidebook to Thailand filled with even more detailed information as well as itineraries, practical information (i.e. hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices, etc), cultural insights, and so much more? It has everything you want in a guidebook – but with a focus on budget and cultural travel! So, if you want to go into more depth, click here for more about the book! )

Thailand Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Thailand is very affordable, though you should expect to pay more on the islands and less up north. Hostels range from 270-500 THB per night for a 4-6-bed dorm. Larger dorm rooms with 10 or more beds can be found for 170-250 THB. Private rooms in hostels cost 700-1,000 THB. Hostels on the islands are going to be on the upper end of that range. During peak season, expect to spend about 20% more.

Free Wi-Fi is common and many hostels also include free breakfast and have air conditioning. It’s not uncommon for hostels to have pools either (especially if they are a party hostel).

You can find cheap guesthouses for as little as 400 THB per night in cities and 300 THB per night in the countryside, though in the big cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok, rooms cost about 1000 THB per night. On the islands or for a nicer room with an air-conditioner, expect to pay 1400 THB per night.

Budget hotels start at around 1,000 THB per night and go up from there. Big resorts on the islands start at 2,500 THB per night for a bungalow on the beach.

Airbnb is very popular in Thailand and you’ll find a lot of options in most major cities. Renting private rooms is not common, but renting full apartments is very affordable for the quality you get, starting at around 600-900 THB per night.

Food – Thai food is spicy and flavorful and uses many ingredients to create layers of flavor. Typical spices and fresh herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Thai food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas. Popular dishes throughout the country include pat tai (a fried noodle dish, more commonly known to Westerners as pad thai), tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

Street food can cost as little as 20 THB, though on average you’ll spend about 40-70 THB per meal.

Sit-down Thai restaurants begin at 65 THB for a dish. For larger dishes or curries, you pay spend up 120 THB per dish. In bigger cities, the malls have huge (and popular) food courts where you can get a filling meal for around 70-100 THB. On the islands, you’ll probably pay about 30 THB more per dish than you would on the mainland.

Western food is pricey compared to Thai food. Most Western dishes (burgers, pizza, pasta, etc.) cost between 170-340 THB, though they can be higher in fancier establishments. Most Western food also pales in comparison to its original so it’s best to skip it altogether. I mean, you didn’t come all this way to have a crappy burger or pizza, right? If you’re looking for sushi, expect to spend 2,000 THB or more for a meal and drinks.

Fast food like Burger King or McDonald’s begins at 150 THB for a sandwich and 300 THB for a meal.

When it comes to drinking, the cheapest beers cost about 60-85 THB each for a small one and 100-120 THB for a large. A glass of wine costs 180 or more THB and cocktails cost between 300-450 THB. You can save money by buying beers from 7-Eleven for half that price. In most places, especially tourist areas, you’ll find happy hours for 60-90 THB for beers and basic cocktails.

And, since food is so cheap, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. If you do decide to shop, expect to pay 600-800 THB for a week’s worth of basic staples like rice, veggies, and some meat.

Backpacking Thailand Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Thailand, budget between 800-1,125 THB per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm, eating food from the street vendors, enjoying a couple of drinks per day, using public transportation, and doing mostly free or cheap activities like swimming, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

On a mid-range budget of 1,750 THB per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or guesthouse with air-conditioning, eat a few meals at Western or sit-down restaurants, rent a motorbike or scooter, and do more paid activities like jungle treks and diving.

On an upscale budget of around 3,725 per day or more, you can do anything you want. There’s nothing you can’t do. After this amount, the sky is the limit and Thailand does luxury really well!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). I just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Thailand Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Thailand is an inexpensive country and it’s hard to overspend here unless you’re trying to splash out on high end meals, imported alcohol, and fancy resorts. If you stick to traveling like how Thais live (street food, public transportation, etc), it’s hard to spend a lot of money. To save money when you visit, here’s my tips on cutting costs in Thailand:

• Go local – The easiest way to save money in Thailand is to simply live like a local. Take local buses, eat street food, and drink local beer. The average Thai lives on less than 7,750 THB per month in Bangkok and on even less in the countryside. Keep it simple to keep it affordable.
• Eat street food – Thailand’s best food is on the street, and it costs a fraction of a restaurant meal. Stick to street food if you’re on a budget. There are plenty of delicious curries and rice, fresh juices, and meat skewers. Eating around the markets is a must-do in Thailand. Really that’s where you’ll find rhe best food anyway.
• Take advantage of happy hour – Thailand’s many happy hours have half-priced drinks and 2-for-1 specials. If you want to hit the bar, stick to drinking during happy hours. If you visit the areas frequented by backpackers, you’ll find even more drink specials.
• Buy beer at 7-Eleven – Buying beer at Thailand’s ubiquitous 7-Elevens and drinking outside will save you quite a bit on your bar tab. While you can’t get wrecked on the street, you can take drinks with you to sit outside your guesthouse or while on the beach. These places are usually 50% cheaper than drinking at the bar and they have tons of snacks.
• Don’t book tours before you arrive – Want to take a cooking class? Go zip-lining? Trek in the jungle? Dive? Wait until you get into Thailand to book anything. Travel agencies are located all over the tourist areas, looking to sell their tours. While you’re able to purchase these tours online before you arrive, you’ll be paying a lot more that way. Instead, book when you arrive so you can haggle for a better deal.
• Stay with a local – Nothing’s cheaper than sleeping for free. Couchsurfing connects you with locals who give you not only a free place to stay, who can introduce you to all the great places to see. Just make sure to send your requests early!
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia as the tap water isn’t potable. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too).

Where to Stay in Thailand

Thailand has every type of accommodation you can think of. Here’s my list of the best hostels and budget hotels in Thailand:

• Lub d Bangkok Siam (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• Smile Robotist Hostel (Chiang Mai)
• Chang Puak Hotel (Chiang Mai)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Balcony Party Hostel (Krabi)
• Noom Guesthouse (Lopburi)
• The Famous Pai Circus Hostel (Pai)
• Old City Guesthouse (Sukhothai)
• Mut Mee Garden Guest House (Isaan)
• Bodega Party Hostel (Ko Pha Ngan)
• Echo Beach Hostel (Ko Pha Ngan)

For more specific recommendations, visit the city and island destination guides as I have even longer lists there.

How to Get Around Thailand

Public transportation – Local buses cost as little as 8 THB per trip (for buses with no AC) and around double that for buses with AC. A week-long pass in Bangkok costs between 120-255 THB, depending on if you want buses with AC or no AC. The Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost 16-52 THB per trip.

In Chiang Mai, the buses have AC and cost around 20 THB per ticket. An unlimited day pass is 180 THB.

In many places, songthaews are the most common mode of local transportation. These converted pick-up trucks don’t follow set stops, simply going wherever their riders ask. They generally cost 30-50 THB for a ride.

Taxi – Metered taxi rides are usually 60-100 THB each. Always stick to the metered taxis, otherwise, you’ll get charged an overpriced ride. If you notice your driver not using the meter, get out and find a driver who will.

Tuk-tuks are un-metered and generally more expensive, costing 100-235 THB per ride. Be sure to agree on a price before you take off. I generally try to avoid tuk-tuks, but for very short distances they can be fun.

Motorbike taxis (in orange vests) are available all over the country with short trips costing about 35-80 THB, but you need to negotiate the price.

Bus – Coach buses in Thailand are incredibly cheap and a great way to get around the country. For intercity travel, you’ll pay more for better services like sleeper buses and air-conditioning. A budget bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes 10 hours and costs about 529-617 THB, while a first-class ticket for the same journey costs 825 THB. Bangkok to Trat (where you can then change to a ferry taking you to Ko Chang) takes 5 hours and costs about 250-300 THB. A two-hour bus journey from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi is just 120-140 THB.

Train – Trains in Thailand tend to be slow, but they’re an incredibly scenic option for getting around. Taking the train is a genuine Thai experience, making the journey as much a part of your trip as the destination. Day trains cost as little as 30-50 THB and night trains start at 875 THB for second class without air-conditioning. By the way, the air-conditioned night trains can be freezing so be prepared. A train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes 11-13 hours and costs 715-900 THB, while Bangkok to Pattaya takes 4 hours and costs 30-50 THB.

There is a new Bangkok–Vientiane train for getting to Laos, which takes 11-13 hours and costs around 1,000 THB. Taking the train is also a convenient way to travel between Bangkok, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.

Flying – Flights are a quick and affordable way to travel around the country, with prices ranging between 825-4,500 THB. Flights to the islands tend to be higher in price than flying between large cities or popular destinations. For example, Bangkok to Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Krabi all cost 450-825 THB for a one-way ticket, while a one-way from Bangkok to Koh Samui can be found for around 2,150 THB.

Budget-friendly airlines in Thailand include:

• Thai Lion Air
• Vietjet Air

Ridesharing – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber and it works the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi and you don’t have to worry about getting cheated on the price. I much prefer to use this app.

Ferry – Travel between islands and beaches is best done by long-tail boat, which costs around 150-275 THB per person for shorter trips. Bigger cities like Bangkok have regular ferries, costing 13-32 per ride.

Car rental – If you want to rent a car in Thailand, an IDP (International Driving Permit) is required. That said, unless you’re an adventurous traveler with experience driving in rugged conditions, I don’t recommend renting a car here as traffic in the cities is sluggish and the roads in rural areas can be unreliable.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars . Prices start around 700-800 THB per day.

Renting a motorbike is super popular in rural areas and on the islands, either for day trips or for road trips. Just make sure you wear a helmet and have insurance (and ideally have experience on a bike or scooter) as I’ve seen a ton of backpackers with road rash who wrecked their bikes because they just weren’t experienced enough.

When to Go to Thailand

Overall, the best time of year to visit Thailand is between November to March. The high season (cool/dry) is from November to March. Temperatures during this time are usually 30°C (86°F) or higher (yes, that is “cool” in Thailand). The islands are much hotter and more humid, though the entire country is very humid during this time. This is also the busiest time of the year so expect higher prices and lots of tourists, especially around Christmas/New Year’s.

If you plan on being in the north during this time, temperatures can drop quickly in the evenings so bring warm clothing. It gets cold at night, especially out in the mountains.

The shoulder season is from April to June, and it is HOT, with temps regularly over 40 C. It’s the hottest time of the year! The country is still really busy this time of year, though crowds begin to shrink after mid-April.

Monsoon hits the northern area at the end of May, bringing daily bouts of rain (though the weather is still warm). The low season is the rainy season, from July to October. Rainfall can be dramatic, ranging from light showers to major flooding. June and August have the heaviest rains, but things wind down during October. You might still get some afternoon showers, but October is also generally a good time to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Thailand

Thailand is a safe place to backpack and travel around. Violent attacks against tourists are uncommon. People who get in trouble here are usually involved with drugs or sex tourism, so if you avoid those activities you’ll likely not have any serious issues. I’ve been coming to Thailand for close to twenty years and have never felt unsafe or had a problem.

Solo female travelers will feel safe here (Thais are very respectful), though the standard precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Thailand is very safe for women but, since I’m not a female traveler, check out some female bloggers who can provide a better perspective.

When it comes to cannabis, Thailand changed some of its regulations on marijuana in June 2022. This means that there are licensed weed stores, cafes, vendors with cannabis-infused beverages, etc., where you’re allowed to buy it within that space to smoke it. However, while it is technically legal for people over 20 to smoke weed in ‘your residence’ or certain areas, doing so in public can still land you a 25,000 baht fine. If you want to take part, follow the laws and use common sense. Regarding other drugs, avoid them. The penalties are harsh (and include the death penalty).

Petty theft (including bag snatching) can occur around major tourist areas so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially while taking crowded public transportation. If you’re carrying a purse, wear it across your body and not over one shoulder so it’s hard for someone to take.

Scams in Thailand, unfortunately, are common (though they are rarely violent). The most common scam involves unmetered taxis and tuk-tuks. For that reason, always make sure the taxi driver is using the meter. For tuk-tuk drivers, make sure you know the price in advance so you don’t get ripped off while haggling.

For more information on common scams to avoid you can read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

It’s illegal to defame or talk ill of the monarchy so avoid doing so (avoid talking politics in general if you can). The penalty can be prison (or worse) so do not talk about the monarchy while you are in Thailand!

Anti-government protests are common around the country, but chiefly in large cities. If they occur when you visit, avoid them. They don’t usually turn violent but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance (112 from a mobile device).

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

The widget below can help you pick the right policy for your trip:

Thailand Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Thailand Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Where to Go
• When to visit
• Budget tips
• Accommodation
• Cultural tips

Backpacking in Thailand: The Ultimate 2024 Travel Guide

The most visited country in southeast asia, it’s time you took a look to find out why.

The home of picture-perfect white sand beaches, lush green jungles, ancient, intricately designed temples, street food to die for, and a bubbly community atmosphere, it’s no wonder Thailand often tops the bucket lists of backpackers worldwide.

Thailand is the hub of Southeast Asia, offering culture, wildlife, and delicious food. It’s one of the best places to visit if you’re on a limited time constraint or budget, making it a paradise for eager backpackers. 

Plus, one of the best things about Thailand is that even on a backpacker’s budget, you don’t have to “rough it” at all. Accommodation here is very cheap, and the best food in the country can be found at tiny street food vendors selling Pad Thai for as little as £2.

In this Thailand travel guide, you will find absolutely everything you need to know about backpacking in Thailand. We cover the best places to visit in Thailand and offer some suggestions for what to do. We also include helpful tips like the best time to visit Thailand, cheap accommodation, budgeting tips and so much more.

So prepare for an adventure like no other as we explain why Thailand is the place to visit for your next backpacking journey.

Where to Go in Thailand

Thailand is incredibly diverse, with famous and “must-see” sights all over the country. While this ensures you have plenty to do on your trip to Thailand, it does make it incredibly challenging to plan an itinerary that takes in everything. To make it just that little bit easier, we’ve rounded up the best places to travel in Thailand – everything else should be planned around these. 

The capital of the land of smiles, you can’t have a Thailand itinerary without including Bangkok . It’s a fantastically varied city, full of soaring skyscrapers and modern architecture nestled next to floating markets, historical cultural sights, traditional architecture, and some of the best museums you’ll find across the country.

Bangkok also has some of the best nightlife in Thailand. With a number of nightclubs, cocktail bars, rooftop bars, traditional Muay Thai fights and more, there’s enough to keep you occupied from 6 pm right through until 6 am

Sometimes referred to as Thailand’s northern capital, Chiang Mai exhibits a seamless blend of culture and nature. It’s home to over 500 temples, all fantastically built into the idyllic environment that is characterised by lush jungles and fast-moving rivers.

It’s here that avid hikers will find the Doi Inthanon , Thailand’s highest point, and there’s also an ethical sanctuary where travellers can interact with beautiful elephants knowing they’re not contributing to animal brutality. On a tour of Doi Inthanon , you will get to explore the serene corners of the park and can visit the tranquil waterfalls as you explore the verdant landscape.

The largest island in Thailand, Phuket is any backpacker’s dream destination. With the endless sandy beaches at Patong, the hedonistic nightlife, water sports, world-class shows and food so fabulous even the fussiest of eaters will enjoy themselves. What’s more, Phuket has some of the most famous cultural sites in the world, so it’s not one to be missed.

While here, make sure to check out Wat Chalong and the big Buddha, and set aside some time to marvel at the colonial buildings in Phuket Town.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s many ancient cities, full of sweeping ruins that date back to Siam’s golden age. These sights include Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon where visitors can climb the tall stupas, as well as Wat Mahathat with the famous stone statue of a head fully enshrined with the roots of a tree. 

You can visit the sweeping site by yourself but if you want to dive into the history and learn the intimate details of this majestic site, a guided tour is the best option. You can find a variety of tours to Ayutthaya, many of which will include transport from Bangkok. Both half-day and full-day tours are available, meaning you can fit Ayutthaya into any Thailand itinerary.

Kanchanaburi

Anyone who’s a fan of Bridge Over the River Kwai should add Kanchanaburi to their bucket list, as it’s here that the famous bridge can be found – and travellers can even take a ride on the infamous Death Railway. The area is a combination of natural wonders coupled with wartime monuments, and there are several museums dedicated to wartime history – including several wartime cemeteries.

Nature lovers should head to Erawan National Park where you can spot the Erawan Falls and the Phra That Cave, while Sai Yok National Park is perfect for an afternoon picnic surrounded by mini waterfalls.

What to Do in Thailand

Thailand is one of those countries that has something for everyone. Incredibly diverse, with a history and culture that spans the ages, it’s no wonder the country is full of exceptional sights, fantastic national parks, and intriguing traditions to get involved with.

Backpacking in Thailand gives you an excellent opportunity to explore this rich cultural offering and undertake unique experiences. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve got some top suggestions for what to do in Thailand.

Take a Thai Cooking Class

Thai food is some of the best in the world, and it turns out it’s actually incredibly easy to cook – once you know how, and where better to learn than with genuine Thai chefs in Thailand?

There are a number of places to spend an afternoon learning how to cook traditional Thai dishes across the country, but the best are in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. The Chiang Mai Kitchen Cooking School is one of the best, with courses starting from just £20. You can also combine a cooking class with a farm visit , for extra cultural immersion.

Get a Sensational Thai Massage

An absolute must-do in Thailand is getting a soothing massage which offers blissful relaxation as well as a glimpse into the country’s long-lived heritage. This therapeutic practice is known as ‘Nuad Thai’ in Thailand and combines aspects of acupressure, yoga and energy balancing. 

This holistic approach provides welcome relief and is a great way to loosen up tension after a long day of exploration. Upon arrival for your massage, you will be calmed by the serene atmosphere and can enjoy a peaceful footbath. The best part about a Thai massage is that you can be fully clothed for the entire experience, so you won’t feel embarrassed. 

There are many places in Thailand where you can enjoy aromatherapy and massage treatments, so it’s a great activity no matter where you go. From quaint local parlours to high-end wellness centres, there are so many different ways to get a Thai massage. It’s a Chiang Mai must do and there’s no place better than the Fah Lanna Spa to enjoy a fabulous treatment.

Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Tucked away in the south of the country, Khao Sok National Park is one of the best in the country. Full of hiking and trekking routes, as well as limestone karsts, relaxing rivers, more wildlife than you could spot in a year, and the best sunsets on the island, it’s not one to miss.

Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho

The royal palace of Thailand, the Grand Palace was first built during the late 1700s as dictated by King Rama I. Even today, it’s the official residence of Thailand’s king – although it’s no longer his home, but rather it’s just used for official ceremonies. 

The palace itself is incredible, with a number of temples – including the famous Wat Phra Kaew, where travellers can find the 15th-century Emerald Buddha. Extend your trip and visit Wat Pho nearby as well to catch a glimpse of a gigantic, golden, reclining Buddha statue. Many operators offer combined tours of the Grand Palace and Wat Pho , meaning you can easily visit both of these Thailand attractions in one day.

Attend the Full Moon Party

One of the most famous cultural festivals in the world, the Full Moon Party is a cornucopia of drinking, dancing, and loud music. If you like the sound of fire dancers putting on a show, booths covering you with glow-in-the-dark face paint, a selection of different music playing on the beach – all equally loud – and stalls of people lining up to sell you alcohol, then get ready for the best night of your life.

The best place in Thailand to experience the Full Moon Party is Koh Phangan, which is reachable from Koh Samui. The island is famous for its spirited nightlife and it’s the perfect place to enjoy the full moon festivities. You can purchase your Full Moon Party tickets in advance , which include ferry services and hotel transfers.

Scuba Dive in the Similan Islands

One of the most popular activities in Thailand is scuba diving, and the country is home to some of the best diving spots in the world. The island of Koh Tao is one of the cheapest places to learn, with most of the island catering specifically to diving – it’s one of the only reasons people tend to visit – but if you’re looking for the absolute best spot then head to the Similan Islands .

Here, divers will see the Elephant Head Rock, and a reef that’s home to snappers, rays, fish, and turtles.

The Elephant Nature Park

One thing you don’t want to do in Thailand is pay anyone any money to ride an elephant. Sure, it looks good on the ‘gram, and it seems to be the thing to do in Thailand, but the reality is that these institutions are incredibly abusive towards the majestic animals.

Instead, head to the Elephant Nature Park and spend some time volunteering at the Elephant Conservation Centre near Chiang Mai . A fantastic centre, it teaches visitors about the elephant tourism trade, educating tourists on why they should never ride elephants in Thailand, while simultaneously offering people the chance to give back and help the community.

Shop at the Floating Markets

If you’re a fan of shopping and unique experiences, then the floating markets of Thailand are an absolute must. Located in various spots throughout the country, the floating markets are a unique way to interact with the community and try some local foods. The best ones can be found in Ratchaburi, or during the Taling Chan Weekend Floating Market in Bangkok.

Just as you’d imagine, the floating markets consist of boats on the water, piled high with colourful goods and things to eat. Among the chatter of vendors and shoppers, you will see exotic fruits of all shades, intricate handicrafts and shining souvenirs. Touring the floating markets in Bangkok is a great way to get situated and experience the charged atmosphere.

Read More About Thailand

The Best Winter Destinations in the World

Bangkok or Phuket – Which is Right for You?

A Guide to Visiting Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand

What to Do in Phuket, Thailand for 2 Days

Where to Stay in Bangkok, Thailand – The Best Areas and Neighbourhoods

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What to do in bangkok for 3 days, backpacker itineraries for thailand.

One of the most important parts of planning a trip to Thailand is making sure you have a solid itinerary. Backpacking in Thailand is an amazing experience, but having a clear plan and keeping organised will pay tremendous dividends. You can find specific Thailand itineraries on our blog that focus on cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. 

If you need help making up a longer itinerary for Thailand, take a look at our examples below. 

1 Week in Thailand Itinerary

Day 1-2: bangkok.

• Explore the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
• Visit Wat Arun, known for its stunning riverside location.
• Take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River.
• Wander through the bustling street markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife in areas like Khao San Road.

Day 3-4: Chiang Mai

• Visit Doi Suthep Temple for panoramic views of the city.
• Explore the Old City and its ancient temples.
• Take a cooking class to learn Thai culinary skills.
• Experience the vibrant Night Bazaar for local crafts and street food.

Day 5-6: Phuket

• Relax on Patong Beach.
• Visit the Big Buddha and enjoy the views.
• Explore Old Phuket Town for its charming architecture.
• Take a day trip to Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island.

Day 7: Ayutthaya

• Visit the historical ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet.
• Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River to see the ancient city from the water.

One Month in Thailand Itinerary

Week 1-2: northern thailand.

• Follow the one-week itinerary for Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
• Explore Pai for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic landscapes.
• Visit the Golden Triangle region, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
• Trek in the jungles of Chiang Rai and interact with local hill tribes.

Week 3-4: Southern Thailand

• Spend time on the islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta or Koh Tao for diving.
• Relax on the pristine beaches of Krabi, Railay, and Phang Nga Bay.
• Explore the underwater world by snorkelling or diving in the Andaman Sea.
• Visit the historical city of Sukhothai and its ancient ruins.

Backpacker Accommodation in Thailand

There are several different styles of backpacker accommodation in Thailand, such as hostels, guesthouses, or a bungalow resort. And the great news is that they’re all ridiculously cheap if you don’t mind a basic room. There are so many cheap places to stay in Thailand especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai , making it a great destination for backpackers on a budget. 

As little as £1.50 is enough to get you a private, basic room or beach bungalow with a shared bathroom. Expect it to be a little bit tatty and dated, but it will definitely be clean, and as long as you’ve packed correctly you won’t find yourself at a loss for anything.

A lot of places will offer you the chance to upgrade for £1 a night, which gives you a room with a mosquito net over the bed. In Thailand, this is always a good idea so try and budget for this – or at least bring your own net. There’s nothing worse than trying to hike for hours with itchy bites rubbing against your boots and clothes.

Below you will find a helpful breakdown of accommodation in Thailand. For each major destination in Thailand, we’ve provided recommendations for places to stay that will suit a range of budgets. So if you’ve been wondering where to stay in Thailand, we’ve got you covered.

Getting Around Thailand

Transportation in Thailand is incredibly cheap, which means any backpacker can get around the country on a limited budget and see all the incredible sights. One of the cheapest ways to travel around Thailand is via a local bus. These can easily get you from town to town and cost as little as 8 THB per trip (£0.21).

There is also the Metro and BTS Skytrain for when you’re in Bangkok, which costs between 15-50 THB (£0.39 – £1.30), as well as metered taxi rides which cost between 60-100 THB (£1.56 – £2.60).

Tuk-tuks are the most popular form of transport for tourists, which means they tend to be more expensive – but definitely worth the experience, if you travel in one at least once. A single ride will set you back 100-235 THB (£2.60 – £6.10).

The trains across Thailand aren’t the most reliable, and they tend to be pretty slow, but they’re a great option if you’re travelling long distances and want to take the scenic route. Plus, it’s fairly cheap, with a day train costing just 50 THB (£1.30). A night train will cost 575 THB (£14.95) for a second-class ticket that doesn’t have air conditioning, which works great if you want to reach a different part of the country but not waste a whole day travelling.

The Best Time to Visit Thailand

Thailand is a diverse country, so the long and short of it is that the best time to visit will differ depending on where it is that you’re going. The islands on one side of the country, for example, have a slightly rainier climate than the other side, and the two sides will often be the exact opposites in terms of weather.

The Best Time to Visit Thailand for Good Weather

December through to March is Thailand’s driest season, making it the best time to visit if you want to avoid getting too wet – although bear in mind that, like any tropical country, there will always be short rain showers no matter when you visit.

This is the best time to visit Thailand if you want cooler temperatures and clear skies. The average temperature in Thailand in the dry season ranges from 25°C to 32°C and this can drop to a comfortable 15°C to 20°C in the evenings. The mild days are perfect for temple hopping and hiking in national parks. 

The Cheapest Time to Visit Thailand

April to June is great for cheaper prices but because it’s the shoulder season in Thailand, a lot of local businesses and ferry services on the smaller islands will shut down. It’s best to plan what you want to do first, and then if you can still do everything during the shoulder season go for it – you’ll at least save a few bucks.

This is also when the highest temperatures in Thailand can be experienced, with daytime averages ranging from 30°C to 35°C. It is also worth noting that March to April is when the smoke season in Thailand occurs. Farmers burn crops in their fields to prepare for the next growing cycle and this causes higher rates of air pollution and could have some impact on your Thailand travel plans. 

Festivals and Events in Thailand 

In terms of key events and festivals, February sees the Buddhist celebration of Makha Bucha, as well as the Krabi Naga Fest along the southern coast, bringing music directly to the beaches. There’s also the Phi Ta Khon Festival in June which sees people dressed in elaborate ghost costumes, as well as the Bangkok International Festival of Dance and Music in September.

How Much Does it Cost to Backpack in Thailand

Typically, Thailand is known for being really cheap – and it can be, as long as you’re sensible and don’t go overboard. You can’t expect to do every single activity going, eat at the fanciest restaurants, and stay at the nicest hotels and still have an affordable trip.

A daily backpacking budget through Thailand would be between 825-1150 THB, which converts to roughly £20-£40, which covers staying in a private room with a shared bathroom, street food, drinks, a few tours, and transport.

Typical costs while backpacking across Thailand:

Budget hotel

Pint of beer

Street food

Attraction entry

Public transport

Restaurant meal

Budget Tips For Thailand

Thailand is easy to visit on a budget – all you have to do is live like a local. There are a variety of ways to avoid spending money in Thailand, like eating at street food vendors, drinking local beer, and taking buses rather than cabs.

The average Thai lives on the equivalent of £188 a month in Bangkok – and that’s even less in the countryside. In fact, if you’re staying in local guesthouses and eating street food – which is completely safe, often safer than the restaurants – then you could spend less than £10 a day.

Take advantage of the happy hours in many of the bars, which include half-priced drinks and 2-for-1 specials, and it’s possible to find beer for less than £1 in the 7-11s.

To avoid overspending on public transport in Thailand, you may want to consider renting a bike or scooter. This is a much cheaper option for travelling around Thailand and means you can explore as much as you’d like whenever you like. Just be sure to wear your helmet at all times and be cautious while on busy roads. 

A great way to reduce spending on food and other items is to shop at local markets in Thailand and avoid convenience stores. Not only will you be able to haggle for fresh fruit and stunning handmade clothing, but you’ll save yourself a good chunk of your spending money in Thailand as well. 

A great way to reduce your budget for Thailand is by partaking in free activities. There are so many things to do in Thailand that are entirely free or very inexpensive. Many temples are completely open to the public and have an optional donation fee. Likewise, you can explore the idyllic nature parks and beaches completely free of charge. 

Backpackers in Thailand should also consider getting a local SIM card . This means you won’t have to worry about purchasing extra data for your trip to Thailand. Plus, it will allow you to keep in touch with your loved ones and stay connected as you travel across this gorgeous country.

What to Pack For a Thailand Trip

Knowing what to pack for a new destination is always daunting – especially when you’re backpacking, and you’re relying on whatever you can fit inside a backpack. Thailand especially can be difficult, as it’s humid and muggy, but also gloriously sunny with frequent rain showers. Below you can find some helpful suggestions for things to take to Thailand. 

The essentials for any backpacking trip are, of course: swimsuit, long sleeve tops, t-shirts, leggings, stretchy jeans that dry easily, underwear, shorts, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shower gel and a towel – unless you’re staying in a hotel, typical backpacker accommodation doesn’t come with a towel.

In keeping with the hostel theme, a pair of flip-flops is handy for the showers, as is a refillable water bottle to carry around with you during the day. If you’re planning to go on a lot of hikes and walks then make sure you have comfortable shoes, and bring a rain jacket to protect from the random outbursts of rain Thailand is prone to.

Other good things to pack, if you have space, include; bug spray, eco-friendly wet wipes, a first aid kit – as much as you can, but definitely band-aids and antibacterial cream – a universal charger, and a lock for your backpack.

Food and Drink in Thailand

Thai food is popular all over the world, but you’ve never had anything like it until you’ve tried traditional Thai from a Thai restaurant, in Thailand! Vegetarian travellers will have a variety of options and so will vegans, but just watch out for fish oil as it’s a common ingredient in many dishes. 

Known for its incredible flavours and fresh ingredients, without being too heavy, Thai food is perfect for the heat and humidity you can find here. Specialities include Tom Yung Goong, which is a soup blended with lemongrass, chilli, lime, shallots, prawns and mushrooms, and of course, there’s the famous red and green Thai curries made with coconut milk. 

Almost every street food cart will serve a delicious Pad Thai, consisting of thick noodles and a myriad of vegetables. While you’re backpacking, you absolutely have to try the Pad Krapow Moo which is chicken or pork served on top of white rice with a fried egg, as well as the Som Tum: shredded papaya with green beans, garlic, and chilli, topped with peanuts and typically served as a side salad.

Cultural Tips For Thailand

Thailand is a veritable backpacker’s dream; a remote paradise full of extraordinary cultural elements, tropical beauty, lively cities and more – all just waiting to be explored by adventurous travellers. 

For a place so far reserved from the western world, it’s no surprise that there a number of social norms that travellers should become accustomed to if they want to avoid an embarrassing encounter. 

• Don’t talk about the king – Thai’s are sensitive to anything that could be seen as a sign of disrespect against their king
• Cover your shoulders and knees when entering Thai temples and royal palaces
• Don’t point, but gesture with all four fingers extended and thumb flat against the palm
• Don’t put your feet up on anything that’s not meant for feet
• Don’t touch anyone’s head – it’s the most important part of the body
• Eat with your spoon – eating directly off your fork is considered crude 
• Women must never touch a monk or their robe
• The national anthem is played out loud every day at 8am and 6pm – if you’re in a public space, it’s customary to show respect by stopping and standing still until it’s over

Handy Phrases in Thai

A massive part of travelling is picking up handy phrases so that you can communicate with the locals – often leading to great deals, cheaper prices, and hidden activities off the beaten track.

The key with Thai is to know that there are slightly different rules to the language depending on whether you’re male or female. If you’re male, you have to end every sentence with the word “khrup/krap”, while females have to end their sentences with “ka/kap”.

• Hong nam yoo tee nai
• Phom dong gaan hai mor maa raak sa
• Mai pen rai
• Kun pood paasaa anggrit dai mai
• Mai khao jai
• A nee tao rai
• Translation
• Sorry / excuse me
• Where is the restroom
• I need a doctor
• Can you speak English?
• I don’t understand
• How much is this?

Visa Requirements For Thailand

One of the many reasons why Thailand is a great destination for backpackers is the Visa Exemption Scheme. Under this scheme, tourists from 64 approved countries are allowed to visit Thailand without applying for a visa beforehand. 

In order to qualify for the scheme, there are certain conditions which must be met. In short:

• You must be visiting Thailand from an approved country
• Your trip to Thailand must be purely for tourism purposes
• You hold a valid passport that is in date, at least six months before expiry
• You must have a valid address for where you will be staying in Thailand, hostels and hotels are fine
• You need to have a confirmed outbound flight departing up to 30 days after your arrival, open return tickets are not valid.
• You must provide proof of funds at a minimum of 10,000 THB for single travellers

If you are looking to stay for longer than 30 days, you can apply for a tourist visa in any Thai embassy before you travel, which gives you 60 days straight away. You can find more information about visa requirements on the Thai Embassy website . Likewise, travellers from the UK, USA and Australia can find more information from the links below.

UK Entry Requirements for Thailand

USA Entry Requirements for Thailand

Australian Entry Requirements for Thailand

Is Thailand Safe?

Thailand is one of those amazing places for backpackers to visit because it’s so incredibly safe – even if you’re travelling on your own.

The main type of crime it’s best to look out for is petty theft, such as bag snatching, which is common in major cities across the world and isn’t specific to Thailand. Another common scam is unmetered taxis, but aside from that it’s a very safe country to travel in, with helpful, friendly locals.

If you are worried, just remember to trust your instincts: don’t ride with a taxi driver who seems shady, and don’t be afraid to change hotels if you’re not happy. You can also make copies of your passport and ID and forward your itinerary to your friends and family back home, so they know where you are.

A Brief History of Thailand

Early archaeological sites put Thailand’s history back roughly 5000 years, showing evidence of rice cultivation and even bronze casting. During the early years of civilisation, Thailand was controlled by tribal groups, such as the mon and Khmer peoples who both equally established large kingdoms in different areas of the country.

After meeting with other South Asian populations, these kingdoms absorbed the religious, cultural, and political ideas from other countries which influenced the development of Thailand’s national identity as we know it today.

Between then 10th and 14th centuries, Thailand was largely ruled by the Khmer kingdom. However, as the empire weakened, city states across the country became to claim independence, until the 1500s saw most of the country fall to the Burmese.

In roughly 1768, General Taksin liberated the city-states from Burmese control, reuniting them under what was known as Siam. Through diplomatic means, Thailand entered into various treaties with western nations – notably Britain and France, which is one of the main reasons they managed to escape imperial colonisation.

In 1932, a Siamese Revolution ended the absolute monarchy of the Ayutthaya Kingdom that had been ruling for centuries, establishing a constitutional monarchy largely overseen by military personnel. For 60 years the military ruled the country until in 1992 a government was established.

Interesting Facts About Thailand

• Thailand is the only country in South-East Asia that was never colonised by a European power
• There is an annual festival dedicated entirely to monkeys where over 600 monkeys are invited to a buffet of over 2 tonnes of food prepared by locals
• All men used to become Buddhist monks 
• It’s home to fish that can walk on land, using two front and two back fins that propel the fish up waterfalls
• There are over 1,430 islands in Thailand
• The first known Siamese twins were born in Thailand
• It’s illegal to drive a car shirtless
• According to local belief, sneezing means that someone is missing you or talking about you

Extra Resources

If you really want to make the most of your time in Thailand, then check out these useful resources. When you’re backpacking, it’s always better to be safe and prepared than winging it.

https://www.skyscanner.net/routes/lond/th/london-to-thailand.html  

https://www.hostelworld.com/blog/backpacking-thailand/

https://www.worldpackers.com/articles/hidden-gems-in-thailand

https://www.allianz-assistance.co.uk/travel-insurance/destinations/thailand-travel-insurance.html

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/world/thailand

https://www.tourismthailand.org/home

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The Biggest Off-the-Beaten-Path Backpacker Guide to Thailand (Maps & Insider Tips)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

I’ve found myself strolling the chaotic streets of Thailand 5 times in the last 4 years–unearthing hidden gem attractions, perusing local markets, & getting to know the unexplored wilderness of Thailand’s most remote National Parks. I’ve also visited the ornate temples of Bangkok, spent some time with Thailand’s gentle giants & had a drunken night or two on Khao San road. Travel, like life, is all about balance. So, why do we keep returning? Because Thailand is so much more than meet the eye.

Thailand is a never-ending fountain of fascinating attractions. Every trip back I end up leaving with 5 more cities added to my bucket list. Alongside Indonesia , it’s the only country I return to again & again. And although I wouldn’t call myself an ‘expert’, I’m at least an aficionado of all things Thai.

Getting Off-The-Beaten-Path in Thailand

Thailand is often a first-trip. Or at least the first trip into the “developing” world. (Although, nowadays Thailand is very much developed). This means many blogs and guides on Thailand don’t dig very far beneath the surface. And I don’t need to be told for the 1,000th time to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok. ( Side note: Contrary to popular opinion, I would advise you to skip the Grand Palace, but more on that later. )

What I wanted was an interesting guide to Thailand.

A guide that recommended off-the-beaten-path cities and ornate temples no traveler has heard of. I wanted a Thai experience that wasn’t the same as every other backpacker on the planet.

So I decided to write one.

This guide covers it all. The food, the temples, the cities, and the excursions that uncover the real ‘ Siam ‘ and show you the best of Thailand. ( But don’t worry, I won’t skip over the highly traversed destinations if they are worth visiting.)

The Big Myth

There’s this garbage idea floating about the backpacker community that Thailand is a “ basic ” destination. That only newbie travelers or party hostel hoppers love Thailand. They claim Thailand is too touristy, too crowded, and with that has lost its authenticity.

Which is all just a load of bullshit.

A fellow long-term traveler we met in Myanmar actually had the audacity to state that she was visiting “everywhere except Thailand” on her round-the-world excursion ( cue dramatic eye-roll ).

Yes, Thailand sees 39 million tourists a year. In fact, Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok was actually the busiest airport in the world last year. Yes, there are places swarmed with tourists catered to obnoxious party backpackers or high-rolling resort-goers. But to discount an entire country because of a few overtouristed cities is doing a huge disservice to yourself.

My recommendations will take you outside the banana pancake trail ( nickname for the typical traveler route in Asia ), and prove that Thailand is STILL a country brimming with cultural experiences and authentic adventures. Getting off-the-beaten-path in Thailand is more than possible.

Thailand’s infrastructure is impeccable. Making it the easiest country to navigate & get off-the-beaten-path. A do-able destination even for beginners.

Best Time to Go

That depends on if you want crowds or perfect weather. There’s really no wrong time of year to visit Thailand. The rainy season can be dry & beautiful with sporadic showers in the late afternoon while the dry season is the most popular time of year to visit.

As with most destinations, I recommend the shoulder season. You get fewer tourists & better weather.

Rainy Season: July-October

Dry season: november-may, shoulder season: late may-late june & late october- early november.

Interested in visiting during a local festival ? Thailand has loads of really unique festivals celebrated country-wide and some are worth scheduling your visit to the country around. & although festivals aren’t really off-the-beaten-path attractions in Thailand they are a great way to easily connect with the local customs.

• Songkran (April) The water festival. A country-wide water fight to help ring in the coming years rainy season.
• Yi Peng (November) Lantern Festival. The most famous festival in Thailand. Best celebrated in Chiang Mai.
• Phi Ta Khon (June) The Ghost festival.
• Wing Kwai (November) The Water Buffalo Racing festival.

Visa Information

Most travelers to Thailand won’t require a visa. Those of us from the U.S., U.K., & Australia are allowed 30 days visa-free. You can check if you are visa-exempt here . The only catch is that you need proof of onward travel out of the country. This usually only applies when you’re entering the country by air.

Budget Travel Tip: If you don’t yet have a ticket leaving Thailand, book the cheapest 100% refundable flight on Expedia just before you arrive at the airport and then cancel once you’ve passed security.

Other Vital Info to Know Before You Go

• The currency is Thai Baht. Roughly 30 Baht to the dollar. If anyone tries to sell you something in USD they are likely overcharging you.
• English is widely spoken in Thailand. Don’t stress about communication. But it’s always nice to learn a few basic words before you go. ( Kah Poon Kahh *Thank you* & Wat = Temple)
• ATM’s in Thailand charge a flat fee of 200 baht for every use. If you feel you can keep track of it it’s best to withdraw as much money as possible in one go. The Gold ATMs let you pull out $1,000 USD at one time.
• It’s gotten better over the years but scams in Thailand are prevalent. For tips on how to avoid getting scammed in Southeast Asia check out my guide.
• Haggling is the norm. For everything from T-shirts to tuk-tuks, if the price isn’t clearly labeled the price is up for deliberation.

Transportation in Thailand

Thailand is a well-developed country. This means your transportation options are plentiful. Local buses, taxis, trains, tuk-tuks, tourist vans, & long-tail ferries are available all over the country.

Pro-Tip : Always book your bus & train tickets at the station. Tour agencies & hostels take a commission & you won’t be paying the cheapest price.

For local transport try to catch a bus whenever possible. A typical ride will set you back about 8-16 Baht. Tuk-Tuks are worth a ride at least once. They are the more expensive transport option but it’s just part of the quintessential Thailand experience.

For long routes- opt for trains. Overnight trains range from 3rd-class hard seats to 1st-class sleeper compartments with A/C. Below I lay them out from best to worst. I’ve done the 14-hour route to Chiang Mai from Bangkok in 3rd class seats….it was miserable. Opt for at least a sleeper berth on overnight trains.

1st Class A/C Sleeper Beds

2nd Class A/C Sleeper Bed (Perfect for long overnighters)

2nd Class Non-A/C Sleeper Bed

2nd Class A/C Hard Seat

2nd Class Non-A/C Hard Seat

3rd Class A/C Hard Seat (Rare)

3rd Class Non-A/C Hard Seat (Great for short journeys)

Pro-Tip: Never agree to a taxi without a meter. Metered taxies are the only way to avoid one of the most common scams in Thailand.

Thailand Backpacker Guide By City

Here’s a comprehensive guide to all the cities worth visiting in Thailand & why. I’ll cover the bucketlist attractions worth visiting & all the off-the-beaten-path destinations that will make you fall in love with Thailand.

I have an ongoing love affair with Bangkok. It’s without question my favorite city in the world. I’ll be honest it wasn’t love at first sight, but the city grows on you. Every corner holds opulent temples mix-matched with modern skyscrapers, the food unrivaled, and it’s streets hold just the right amount of chaos to keep them interesting.

Expect a full guide to Bangkok & all it’s best neighborhoods coming soon. Budget transportation, trendy local neighborhoods, & how to fall in love with this seemingly dirty grungy city.

Best of Bangkok

Marvel at thailand’s best & most underrated temples..

Spend any amount of time in Southeast Asia & you’ll see more than your fair share of ornate bejeweled temples. But Thailand with nearly 41,000 Buddhist temples, & Bangkok in particular, is home to some of the most impressive. These are the temples I recommend if you want to be truly dazzled.

• Wat Saket: The Golden Mount ($1.33/ person)

• Wat Pho: Temple of the Reclining Buddha ($6.25/ person)

Slip around the corner from Wat Pho & you’ll be surrounded on all sides by colorful hanging garlands of fresh flowers. Pak Khlong Talad is one of the largest fresh flower markets in Thailand & well worth a wander.

• Wat Ratchanatdaram ($0.65/ person)
• Wat Arun: Temple of the Dawn ($3/ person)

The real magic of Wat Arun is actually found on the opposite side of the Chao Phraya river. Watch the stupa glow in the warm morning light of dawn or wait until sunset & watch the red sun disappear behind its horizon. No need to pay the entry fee.

• Wat Benjamabhopit: The Marble Temple ($0.65/ person)
• The Grand Palace or Wat Phra Kaew ($15.50/ person)

Should you go to the Grand Palace? Here’s where my opinion becomes unpopular. Often listed as the #1 thing to do in Bangkok & touted as the “ best temple in Bangkok ” on essentially every blog written about the city—I think it’s overrated. Sure, it’s massive & ornate & well preserved & a great look at the many kinds of Thai architectural styles. BUT it’s also insanely crowded at all times of day, swelteringly hot ( I think Bangkok’s heat is actually radiating from the dazzling gemstones here ) & expensive at $15.50/ person. It’s more museum than actual temple so if that’s your style give it a look but I wouldn’t say it’s an absolute must-see.

Shop at Bangkok’s World Renowned Markets.

Bangkok is the king of massive shopping malls. Siam Center, Icon Siam, MBK, Siam Paragon, Central World—all are massive modern malls where you’ll find everything from phone chargers to genuine Prada stores to knock-off jerseys. But the outdoor street markets are what really make Bangkok special. Most of my evenings in Thailand were spent wandering from stall to stall people watching & snacking on street food. These are my favorites.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

15,000 stalls & one of the world’s largest shopping markets it’s popular among locals & tourists alike. Only open Saturday & Sunday.

Talat Rot Fai: Srinakarin

There are two different Talat Rot Fai markets, so don’t get confused. This one is known for its vintage antiques & is super popular among young trendy Thai locals. Thurs-Sun: 5 pm to 1 am .

Sampeng Market

Located in the heart of Chinatown, this is the best window-shopping market. Narrow alleyways with unidentifiable goods practically bursting with people. Daily: 9 am – 6pm .

Taling Chan Weekend Floating Market

Floating markets in Thailand can be SUPER touristy & a giant rip off if you’re not vigilant. I once was conned into a $40 taxi ( round-trip ) to Damoen Saduak Market ( way out of town ) only to be told once I got there that he expected another $100 for a ride into the market on the boat. Taling Chan however still has some of its original charms. & it is pretty neat to watch the small boats filled with veggies or serving fried fish crowd up the river.

The Infamous Khao San Road

Khao San is brimming with drunken young Aussie’s stumbling about pouring liquor down their throats by the bucketful. Scorpions are skewered & served on sticks, ice-cold Chang served in towers from scantily clad bar girls. But it makes for some great people-watching.

Patpong or Soy Cowboy

What begins as an innocent night on Khao San often leads here. The epicenter of sex tourism in Thailand. Neon flashing lights advertising ping pong shows and other debaucherous activities. Bars are tended by ladyboys dressed to the nines & naked women dance on the counters. Nothing good happens here.

Take a Day to Visit Koh Kret. An Island within a City.

Frequently visited by Thai locals this little island sits in the Chao Phraya River just North of Bangkok. It’s famous for pottery from the Mon people’s but its markets and streets make it an interesting day trip for travelers looking to see something different.

Sundowner Cocktails at a Skybar

You’ll never understand just how huge Bangkok is until you view it from above. Bangkok’s most stunning cocktail lounges are perched at 50+ stories high. Zoom Bar has happy hour until 8 PM where you can get 2 cocktails for $6. Red Sky Bar has a great happy hour until 7 PM as well.

Super Budget Alternative: Grab a few bottles of Thai Whiskey from your local 7/11 & climb the Sathorn Unique Condominium. It’s a long-abandoned skyscraper where you can get the sky bar views without the price tag. Just be careful since it’s half-built & not maintained.

Watch a Muay Thai Fight Night

Even if you’re idea of a perfect evening out doesn’t include Thai men beating one another senseless you can’t leave Thailand without watching a Muay Thai fight. Unlike most arena’s where tickets start at $25+, Channel 7 Boxing Stadium packs the audience for their televised shows. Show up at 12-1 PM & seats are free. Dress code is enforced.

Gorge Yourself on Local Dishes

Because Bangkok is one of the top foodie destinations in the world, you would be crazy to not indulge in street food & local dishes every chance you get— a hint: they’re not on Khao San Road. Check out the 28 street foods you absolutely must try in Thailand .

The secret to finding the best food in Bangkok is to walk down some dark alleyways. The best local joints are always tucked into some inconspicuous corner or unassuming street. Take a wander and eat wherever locals seem to be flocking. I would start in Chinatown .

The Best Street Food Tours in Bangkok

Finding local food in Bangkok is easy. But finding the BEST local food in Bangkok without some help is nearly impossible. The city is just too big. A Chef’s Tour offers two different tours of Bangkok’s food scene — both led by a local and focused on the heart of Bangkok, STREET FOOD.

The Ancient Cities: Ayutthaya, Lopburi, & Sukhothai

You have to visit at least one. The three ancient cities definitely fall into the category of off-the-beaten-path Thailand destinations & it’s very likely you won’t have to weave through crowds.

Back when Thailand was known as the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya was the capital city. Today, the ancient ruins lay spread over the sweltering flat landscape. Monasteries, statues, & stunning temples cover the archeological site & it’s arguably the most historically significant stop you can add to your Thailand itinerary. It reminded me of the ancient city of Bagan in Myanmar , renowned for its spectacular sunrises.

Ayutthaya Temples You Can’t Miss

• Wat Chaiwatthanara
• Wat Phra Mahathat . The face carved into twisting tree roots. This is one of the most famous sights in Ayutthaya.
• Wat Lokayasutharam
• Wat Phanan Choeng
• Chedi Phukhao Thong . The white temple.

Ayutthaya Tip : Loads of tour companies market Ayutthaya as a day trip from Bangkok. Go independently & stay overnight in the city. These kinds of dramatic brick temples look best at sunrise & sunset. The city is also the perfect landscape to explore by bicycle. Stay at Pan Din Boutique Guesthouse for a free bike and excellent room.

I would also add a visit to Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Phra Si Sanphet if you have the time.

Lopburi & Sukhothai

Lopburi is another great historical city but mixed among its ancient temples is monkey mayhem. Thousands of monkeys have turned these temples into a primate paradise. If you are terrified of these primates (I don’t blame you) , I would consider skipping Lopburi.

Otherwise, be sure to visit Phra Prang Sam Yod. The main monkey hangout.

Sukhothai was the first capital city of Siam. & although the temples of Ayutthaya are more world-renowned, Sukhothai is the choice for those looking to get off the beaten path. Because of all the day-trippers that flood the grounds of Ayutthaya just a short hour and a half drive from Bangkok, the experience of the ruins of Sukhothai is often a much more enjoyable experience.

Kanchanaburi

The attractions in Kanchanaburi can weigh a little heavy on your heart. Much like the genocide museums in Phnom Phen Cambodia , this Thai town saw a lot of atrocities. During WW2 Kanchanburi was an Allied POW camp & many American, British, Dutch, & Australian soldiers lost their lives here. These historical museums are worth visiting to gain a better understanding of Thailand’s past.

Death bridge

Constructed entirely by forced labor, this railway connects Thailand and neighboring Myanmar. Most of the track no longer exists but it is one of the most popular attractions in Kanchanaburi. I highly recommend getting a local guide to explain the history.

Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

Another powerful war memorial. This is where the POW who died during the construction of the death railway rest today.

Tham Krasae Cave

Like so many other caves in Asia, Tham Krasae Cave is also a temple. Ride the death railway train 2-hours to the River Kwai Bridge to marvel at the golden Buddha inside the cavern. The cave is pretty standard as far as caverns in Asia go but the journey is gorgeous.

Sai Yok Noi Waterfall 

Kanchanaburi is known for its phenomenal waterfalls. & like all the other stunning falls in Thailand, this one is bright blue, surrounded by dense jungles, & swimmable. The falls are inside the National Park but you don’t have to pay the entrance fee to reach them.

Erawan National Park & The 7-Tiered Erawan Waterfalls

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This is a waterfall worth chasing. If you visit one waterfall in all of Thailand, make it this one. Erawan Falls is 7 cascading levels flowing through the trees & the higher up the tiers you venture the prettier the views become. Level 7 is definitely the prettiest & least crowded level. The turquoise water starkly contrasts the white rocks framing the pool.

Cost: 200 THB ($6.50)

Tham Sua Temple

This is the most impressive temple in the region. Not to be confused with the Krabi temple of the same name, also known as “ the tiger temple “. Climb the colorful staircase or opt to save your legs & take the funicular to the giant golden buddha & ornate temple at the top.

The most beloved city in Thailand. You can hike to hillside monasteries, gorge yourself on Northern-style Thai food, browse some of Asia’s largest street markets, & marvel at magnificent temples some ancient & some new. Chiang Mai is also a hot digital nomad location & wandering the streets don’t be surprised to find the city filled with ex-pats.

It’s also home to the BEST food in all of Thailand. You must try Sai Ua – the succulent lemongrass sausage roasting at every street market.

Looking for the best street food tour in Chaing Mai?

Look no further. A Chef’s Tour (my favorite food tour company) focuses on culturally important dishes and offers two different tours in Chaing Mai. One for lunch and one for dinner. Expect to spend 5 hours seeing the city from a local’s perspective and tasting iconic dishes all while learning about the rich cultural history of North Thailand.

Where to Stay: If you’re looking for a really chill hostel experience, I highly recommend Oh My Bed Chiang Mai. Part tattoo shop-part cozy cat house, this hostel sits on the edge of old town.

The Best Temples in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is covered in temples. Seemingly every corner has an intricately carved stunning temple & even if you dedicated your entire trip to it you would never be able to see them all. Here are a few temples worth seeing.

• Wat Chedi Luang  
• Wat Buppharam
• Wat Lok Molee
• Wat Chiang Man

Doi Suthep is a little overrated in my personal opinion. It’s pretty far from the city & absolutely swarming with people. I recommend combining it with a small motorbike loop to the Hmong village for their signature coffee & freshly harvested strawberries.

• Wat Suan Dok . Time your visit for 5-7 Mon/Wed/Fri & you can chat with the monks. Ask them anything you would like. It’s a great opportunity to understand Buddhism a little bit better.
• Wat U Mong . Also known as the tunnel temple.
• Wat Sri Suphan . The silver temple. Be warned ahead of time that women aren’t allowed inside the main temple.

My favorite night market sits right outside Wat Sri Suphan. It’s massive & has the best street food options. You can find it on Maps.Me labeled as “Saturday Night Market”. Saturday 6pm – Midnight

Monks trail hike to Wat Pha Lat

If you’re looking for a peaceful hike with lovely views of Chiang Mai, I can’t recommend the Monks trail enough. The pathway begins near the Chiang Mai zoo and twists up into the hillside ending at Wat Pha Lat- an intricate temple several peacocks call home.

Elephant Nature Park

Seeing elephants in Thailand had always been a dream of mine. Unfortunately, in many places throughout Thailand elephants are abused & trained to entertain tourists. It was super important to me that I found an ethical elephant sanctuary whose main purpose was to keep the elephants healthy & happy. Chiang Mai has the most elephant sanctuaries & there are plenty to choose from but Elephant Nature Park is undoubtedly the best.

Elephant Nature Park is a rescue & rehabilitation center with a herd of more than 40 elephants all recovered from logging & tourist ride camps. If you want to get up close & personal with these gentle giants & learn more about the plight of elephants in Thailand this is the park for you.

Doi Inthanon National Park

This National Park is set in the mountains about 2 hours outside of Chiang Mai but it’s a popular day-trip for travelers and locals. Being the highest point in Thailand, it goes without saying that this park offers some of the best viewpoints in the country but it also holds some spectacular waterfalls & really unique temples.

Kew Mae Pan nature trail is a beautiful 2-hour loop that will take you past some of the park highlights but be aware it’s closed for reforestation from June 1st to October 30th.

How to Get to Doi Inthanon

You basically have three options for transport. Do it yourself (scooter), public transportation (yellow songthaew), or join a group tour. Personally, since the ride is substantial & very winding we opted to take public transport. Just find the bright yellow trucks & hop aboard for 150 baht.

If you’re like us & decide to go at it yourself, here’s a small list of attractions worth visiting in the park.

• Sirithan Waterfall
• Wachirathan Waterfall
• The Twin Pagodas

Mae Rim Loop

I always include a motorbike loop in my destination guides. There’s no better way to see the landscape & explore the areas surrounding a city. & you have the freedom to stop at every sight that strikes your fancy. & it’s an easy way to step off the well-trodden tourist track because many people don’t feel comfortable driving a motorbike.

This motorbike loop is easily navigable in one long day. & was my favorite day we spent in Chiang Mai. It doesn’t particularly matter whether you go clockwise or counterclockwise but keep in mind the waterfalls and best food stops will be the first stop if you chose to go counterclockwise. I opted to go in reverse so we could save the falls for swimming in the heat of the day (& not spend the whole day soaked on the motorbike). I mapped out the route below but here are the stops you MUST take along the way.

• Samoeng Forest Viewpoint
• Mae Sap Cave (you’ll have to backtrack a bit to get back on the loop after this stop but it was worth it)
• Mae Sa Waterfalls
• Riverside Restaurants for Lunch

As you get closer to town you’ll see cheesy snake farms, crocodile farms, & unfortunately elephant ride camps. We cut these tourist attractions off our loop but they are popular stops.

Chiang Mai is the ONE place in all of Thailand you WILL be ticketed for not having a motorbike license. It’s 500 Baht & they have checkpoints surrounding old town. The good news is once you pay your fine–the ticket you are given allows you to drive for three more days hassle-free. There is usually a checkpoint on the winding road up to Doi Suthep as well.

Best Markets in Chiang Mai

Sunday night market (ratchadamnoen road).

This market is madness. It’s massive & always shoulder-to-shoulder packed. But don’t let that stop you from visiting. You’ll find everything from wine to rotisserie quail & of course loads of gift-worthy handmade goods if you’re into that kind of thing.

Saturday Night Market (Wua Lai Road)

Much like the Sunday Night market but the wares are different. I thought the food was better here & it is often less crowded. ( Don’t forget to visit Sri Suphan while you’re in the area).

Ton Lam Yai Flower Market (Praisanai Road)

An impressive array of flowers set in a beautiful outdoor market. Perfect for a nice morning stroll.

On Your Bucketlist: The Yi Peng Festival

Golden glowing rice paper lanterns flicker across the dark skies, streets are crowded with local & foreign tourists– everyone brushing against one another in the hurry to light their own flimsy fire lantern.

It’s the most romantic festival in the world. Although, since I got engaged there I might be biased.

Chiang Mai is home to this extravagant beautiful festival. The Disney movie Tangled even featured the festival on the big screen. It happens every November on the 12th full moon of the year which means dates aren’t often known more than a month in advance.

If you’re interested in celebrating for free & like the locals I recommend purchasing your lanterns on the street & going to the Nawarat bridge for the release. Even better pop into a temple or the bridge just upriver for fewer crowds. Check out my complete guide to celebrating Yi Peng with the locals. The $100 ticketed events are for foreigners only. Great for Instagram shots, but not how the festival is typically celebrated.

Best Food in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the place to delve into street food. You absolutely cannot leave the city without sampling a big steaming bowl of Khao Soy. It’s a Northern Thai specialty. A warm spiced curry broth filled with tender chicken on the bone & al dente noodles–it’s one of my favorite foods in Thailand. Here are a few other spots you should try in the city.

Cowboy Hat Lady @ Chang Phueak North Gate

Anthony Bourdain may have made her famous but it’s because her pork is truly that good. Her food stall opens at 6 PM every day & it’s ALWAYS packed. Her signature dish is the Khao Kha Moo (tender perfectly spiced pork) smothered in her fresh-made sauce that sits in buckets atop her plastic tables. Get there early (or late) to avoid the rush.

50-Year Old Murtabak Cart

Yes, This woman has been selling murtabak for 50 years from this same cart. Murtabak is a tasty stuffed Arabic pancake–often stuffed with chicken, potatoes, and/or onions. She also makes sweet ones similar to the street banana roti. Unfortunately, I can only guestimate where her cart is located but check the map below.

Back in the 90’s Pai was a hippy haven. Vegan food, crisp mountain air perfect for clearing your mind, & plenty of yoga studios. 746 turns up a winding road north of Chaing Mai, you’ll still find the town attracting its fair share of dreadlocked barefoot travelers but it’s pretty much completely lost it’s ‘untouched by tourism’ feel. It’s well on the trodden path in Thailand.

In spite of this, I found myself loving Pai. The food was phenomenal & a welcome change to the pork heavy meals I had been indulging in in Chiang Mai. Pai is pristine nature. Stunning canyons, hot springs, hikes, & motorbike loops.

Transportation Tip : Rent a motorbike in Pai. There’s to much in the surrounding countryside to see to go without one. Be warned however that this is often the first place young backpackers try out motorbikes & can make the roadways prone to accidents. Checkpoints are common. Not for motorbike licenses but for drugs. Be sure to not carry any drugs on you.

Float the River

At your own peril. The river running through Pai is shallow & slow-moving. Mostly. You’ll be plopped 5 miles upstream for a few hours float and in a few places, the current tosses you straight into the banks of the river. The seemingly tame river has some teeth along the way. Don’t forget to stock up on some river beers & make sure you only bring what you’re prepared to lose. RIP to my GoPro . Most hostels and guesthouses will offer a drop-off service & tube rental.

Cost to Float the River: $7

Pai & Drugs. They’ve gone hand in hand since the first travelers fell in love with this isolated mountain village. Mushrooms & Marijuana are easily purchased and readily available. But in recent years, Thai Police have been cracking down. Random checkpoints are common & if you get caught with drugs you’ll be asked for a massive bribe or persecuted to the full extent of Thai law.

Stuff Your Face at the Night market

Pai’s can be expensive. All the vegan food comes with a hefty price tag. Enter the night market. Every night food vendors cart their stalls to Pai walking street & serve everything from fried chicken to dumplings, shampoo baked potato (still not exactly sure what made it Shampoo), & steaming sausages.

Best Vegan Food Spot: Blossom Cafe is hands-down the best vegan food in Pai. I still dream about their massive tempeh platter. If you’re going to splurge in restaurants this is the place to go.

Best Local Food Spot: Two Sisters. This restaurant is a little family-owned hut with some Burmese influence. The food was budget-friendly & insanely good.

Every evening at sunset all the tourists in Pai head to the canyon. 20 minutes on the back of a motorbike you’ll reach a packed parking lot & a few dust-covered trails. The sheer orange rock faces of the canyons are unlike any other landscape I’ve encountered in Thailand. The further along the canyon you hike the fewer tourists you’ll encounter. Follow the deep ravines carved by thousands of people’s feet along the ridges.

Pembok waterfall

An hour scenic motorbike ride from Pai, this waterfall is tucked into the crevasse of a cave & easily reachable by a short hike. If you’re feeling adventurous you can take a dip in the freezing turquoise waters or hike the trail above the falls and follow the flowing water to its source.

Waterfall Ticket: $1.25

White Buddha

What Thai city could be complete without a massive buddha overlooking the town? This massive white stone buddha sits atop of long staircase & offers great views of the town far below.

Sunset Yoga

It wouldn’t be Pai without Yoga. & there are quite a few places where you can enjoy yoga with a stunning view. Circus Hostel is one of them. If you’re a guest at the hostel, yoga is free.

Hot Springs

You’re early morning hangover cure. Or in my case an opportunity to rest my aching muscles from all the yoga. These natural hot springs are surrounded by forest and some are boiling hot. You can even hard boil eggs in a few of them (although the staff strictly prohibits this). Steep yourself in the hot rocky pools closer to the entrance.

Cost of the Hot Springs: $9

Odd Ball Attraction Worth a Visit : The Bunny Cafe. You’ve probably heard of a cat cafe but this coffee shop swapped cats for long-eared fuzzy rabbits. Enjoy your cup of joe with a furry friend.

Where to Stay: For those on a budget there are two stand-outs for accommodation . Circus Hostel ($15 per night-private room) & Pai Country Hut ($17 per night-Bungalow). Circus hostel has a pool, massive breakfast buffet, & offers free Yoga to the people who stay. Pai Country Hut is right near the river & walking street, but the real reason to stay is the wonderful little thatched-roof bungalows and tasty free breakfast in the morning.

Chiang Dao is seldom visited & that just sweetens its appeal. Sitting about halfway between Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai it seems a natural stop between the cities, unfortunately, it’s not so easily reached.

Because of this Chiang Dao has remained a sleepy mountain town. With one major bucketlist attraction.

On Your Bucketlist: Climb Doi Luang

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‘The last tooth of the Himalayas’. This peak sits at just over 2,000 meters & is the third tallest in all of Thailand. But the hike itself is renowned as Thailand’s best. Here are some important things you should know before you go.

• You MUST go with a guide. It costs around 1000 THB for a guide. You used to be able to summit solo but Thai police have cracked down & there are always guards watching the entrance.
• It’s a 9-mile hike & overall not difficult for those with a medium level of fitness.
• The hike snakes through the National Park & a stunning nature preserve so keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife.
• I highly recommend a tour where you camp near the summit. Not because it can’t be done in one day, but because watching the sky fill with stars all around you & then eventually the sunrise over the peaks is part of the whole draw to this adventure.

Other Attractions Worth Visiting

Chiang dao hot springs.

A nice soak will be just what you’re after following your hike up Doi Luang.

Wat Tham Pha Plong

It’s a little bit of a walk but this jungle temple is absolutely stunning & well worth the effort of the 500-step staircase.

Chiang Dao Cave

Reminiscent of the stunning Buddhist caves in Hpa-An, Myanmar , this walkthrough cavern is a must-see in the area.

Cost: $3 per person.

At first glance, Chiang Rai is just another small metropolis in Thailand. When the bus pulls in you’ll be set at the feet of the towns sprawling marketplace filled to the brim with artisan goods and thrift apparel. The flat landscape surrounding the typical Thai town is spotted with beautiful temples & rugged caves.

Free Shuttle Service Hack: Inconveniently, the tourist buses from Pai drop you off at the mall on the outskirts of town. Tuk-tuk drivers here charge an arm & a leg to take you the remaining mile or two into town BUT there is a free shuttle to the luxury hotels from the mall. Just hop on & tell them you plan to stay at one of the hotels & get off at the first stop and say you’ll walk the rest of the way.

Best Of Chiang Rai

Clay hot pots & seafood galore at the chiang rai night bazaar.

At 6 PM the market comes alive. Spindly tables crowd with Chinese tourists arranging piles of raw meat & the carefully stacked smoking coals for their hot pots. The large red clay bowls soon to be filled with shrimp, vegetables, & thinly sliced pork.

Although the market offers a variety of fried foods, noodle dishes, & kababs– the Hot Pots are the must-eat meal.

Budget Tip: The cheapest & tastiest passionfruit/mango smoothies sit right at the entrance to this market.

Wat Rong Khun: The White Temple

Although admittedly this “temple” is more an architectural wonder/art project inspired by Thai temples rather than an actual temple it’s the # 1 attraction in Chiang Rai.

Cost: $3.15 per person

Wat Rong Seua Ten: The Blue temple

This temple on the other hand is fully functioning & well worth the short drive out of town. It’s also free to visit & has plenty of food stalls serving fresh coconut ice cream & butterfly pea tea.

Baan Dam: The Black House Museum

About 40 buildings nearly all carved from dark teak wood in traditional Thai style, house paintings, other artworks, & animal skins. The museum is created by a Thai artist & with a guide you’ll get a lot more out of the experience. But even just for a quick visit, it’s worth a look.

Cost: $2.75 per person.

Get Lost in Chiang Rai’s Extensive Wet Markets

Near the old clock tower, you’ll find the morning wet markets. Even if you’re not stocking up on groceries I always enjoy browsing local treats & produce often sampling as I go. Our hostel had a kitchen for the first time in all our Asia travels so we bought a full chicken & veggies to make a delicious roast dinner over Christmas.

Stroll the Saturday & Sunday Walking streets for more market opportunities. You can find them on Maps.me

Wat Tham Phra Cave

If you’re looking for an underground experience this cave nestled against the Kok river is rustic & undeveloped but just what you’re looking for. A monk lives at the entrance but continue walking through and you’ll reach the cave entrance.

Wat Tham Tu Pu

This cave is hardly worth mentioning but if you find yourself visiting Wat Tham Phra then you can easily make a stop here. A steep staircase leads to the entrance of the small cavern.

Take the Scenic Route to Mae Salong

If you’re like me you love a good scenic motorbike journey . This is an opportunity to see the terrain of Northern Thailand. & glimpse a side of Thailand few tourists see.

Best Accommodation In Chiang Rai: Bed & Bike Poshtel. The rooms were ultra-modern & super clean. At $13 a night for a private, it’s slightly on the higher end of our budget but the HUGE family room upstairs made it worth it. It’s also the only hostel we have stayed at in Thailand with a fully functional kitchen to cook for yourself. The cheapest motorbike rental in town is also on the adjacent street

Waterfalls of Chiang Rai (Near-ish to Chiang Rai)

You’ll likely rent a motorbike in Chiang Rai so you might as well get your money’s worth. There are four nearby falls worth visiting.

• Khun Korn Waterfall (32 KM drive + 1.5 KM Trek) Arguably the most scenic of the 4.
• Huay Mae Sai (19 KM drive + short walk) Two-tiered falls good for swimming.
• Huay Kaew (25 KM rough drive) This is the most off-the-beaten-path falls.
• Pu Kaeng (70 KM drive + 40 min walk) 9 tiers of falls cascading through the dense Thai jungle. You will have to pay 200 Baht per person ($6) to enter the National Park there.

Whatever you thought you knew about Thailand, Issan changes your entire perspective immediately. No crowds, beautiful rural landscapes, & oddly enough…lots of ex-pats.

Not in the way Chiang Mai has attracted a constant rotation of digital nomads, but in the fall in love & settle down for an extended period of time kind of ex-pats.

Issan is a chance to truly get off-the-beaten-path & to catch a glimpse of what Thailand was like before the Westernization took over. & if you’re wondering where Issan is….it’s the eastern region that stretches to touch the Laos border.

Tips for Issan: Couchsurfing is super easy here since there are plenty of ex-pats. Definitely considering joining the community. As with many small towns in Thailand that don’t rely heavily on tourism, English isn’t always proficient.

Best of Issan

Visit the ancient temple complex of phanom rung.

If you’ve been to Angkor Wat in Cambodia you’ll recognize the architecture immediately. You also wouldn’t know it, but the park is also sitting on the rim of an extinct volcano.

Issan’s true appeal lies not in its attractions but in the peace & quiet. In the way you’re able to just slip into Thai life & experience a more authentic (pre-westernization & development) version of Thailand. It’s a destination that will feel foreign no matter how comfortable you have become in the country thus far.

East of Issan

There’s a whole sprawling region between Issan & the Laos border. If you’ve already ventured out this far you may as well continue on to some of the other small towns in this region. Surin . Sakhon Nakhon. Ubon Ratchathani . Here are a few of my favorite attractions in the region.

Temple of the Mountain at Wat Phu Tok

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Built in the ’60s by a local monk these wobbly wooden walkways cling to the side of the rust-red rocks of the cliffside overlooking the greenest valley you’ve ever seen. Stick to the path on the right side if you want to enjoy the slightly more daring scenic route along these wooden paths. The left will take you straight to the 5th level where you can admire the shrine.

Khao Yai National Park

Nearish to Issan this massive National Park is packed to the brim with wildlife and dense jungle vegetation. It’s my favorite National Park in Thailand. If you’re reeeeally lucky you can even spot a wild tiger (although unlikely), elephants, monkeys, porcupines…the list goes on.

Looking for the Best Hikes in Thailand?

If you’re an avid hiker looking for the best mountain peaks to summit in Thailand you may have to delve a little deeper & travel to cities few others visit. Here are the best hikes in Thailand that aren’t in the cities mentioned above.

Watch the Sunrise at Phu Chi Fa Viewpoint

Sit above the clouds and stare down at the green valley on the Thai-Laos borderland. Try to begin your hike at 5 Am to arrive at the summit before sunrise.

Get Vertigo at Khao No

If you’re looking for a killer photo op this is the place. But if you have a problem with heights this is probably not the hike for you. & if this peak seems a little too far out of the way you can always try the very similar peak in Laos another time.

Hang Nak Mountain Nature Trail

This is a relatively popular hiking path near Krabi town. It’s only 4.5 miles long & the views from above are phenomenal.

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn

About a 2 & a half-hour drive into the middle of nowhere from Chiang Mai you can reach these hillside temples stacked neatly into the cliffs. These white cap rounded temples are quite a sight to see.

Mount Mokoju

This is one of the highest peaks in all of Thailand. Summiting this monster will take 3-5 days and a relatively good level of physical fitness.

The Islands

The Thai islands. We’ve all seen the photos. Rugged palm-fringed beaches with impossibly white sand and aquamarine water. Unfortunately, not all Thai beaches are created equal. To avoid the expensive, the crowded, and the not so scenic–try these islands instead.

Koh Phangan

The island of the infamous full-moon party. Where hoards of Aussie teens and young backpackers flock to drink too much and cover themselves in neon paint. Now hear me out, Koh Phangan is still an island paradise.

The less-developed Northern end of the island is easily reachable via motorbike. & worth the extra effort to visit.

Koh Lanta has good- not great- beaches. But with the remote edges of this developed island still covered in traversable jungle, there is plenty to do here. It’s also the best place in Thailand to learn how to drive a motorbike.

Best of Koh Lanta

• Pay a visit to the historic old town. This little Thai fishing village has lots of shops & the best food options on the island.
• Hike around in Koh Lanta National Park. There are some really great seaside vantage points & Klong Chak cave and Klong Chak waterfall tucked into the jungle. Watch out for pesky monkeys.
• Rent a motorbike & explore the secret beaches. & far-flung corners of the island. The roads are well-maintained & it’s a great place to learn.
• Visit Sunshine Hill Viewpoint for a stunning sunrise. Or Koh Lanta Lighthouse for another great vantage point above the island.

This microscopic island is the tropical paradise of your dreams. Empty white sand beaches, warm turquoise oceans, and plenty of cheap bungalows to call home. This is one of my personal favorites of the Thai islands. I cannot recommend visiting here enough. DO IT.

Best Food on the Island : Thai Lady Pancake Shop. It’s directly across from the infamous “YooHoo” restaurant.

Best of Koh Lipe

• Kayak to the nearby Koh Adang & hike Chado Cliff to see Koh Lipe surrounded by bright blue water from above.
• Take advantage of the world-class snorkeling.
• Although Sunset beach was my favorite, Pattaya beach is great in the daytime when the tide receded & you can explore the soft sandy tide pools.

Paired with Koh Kradan and Koh Libong these are the three most underrated Thai islands in the Andaman Sea. Read my full guide linked above to see why I recommend them to all travelers looking to get away from the crowds.

I have one massive guide explaining why this island is the single best one in all of Thailand. It’s close to Cambodia and a little out of the way but I promise you the extra effort to reach it is well worth it.

A little more expensive and a little more crowded than the other islands on this list, but what Koh Tao lacks in isolation it makes up for in coral reefs. Known for its insane dive sites, this is the ideal place to finally get that PADI certification or just do some snorkeling over its renowned underwater world.

Koh Jum/Koh Pu

One island two different names. Easily accessible from Krabi, this is a true patch of paradise. Half the island remains undeveloped with nothing except sparsely scattered bungalows while the other end has sparkling white beaches rimmed-with a few luxury resorts.

Koh Tarutao

Tucked far away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, Koh Tarutao is undeveloped and great for those just looking to get away from it all. Silica sand, limestone cliffs, and abandoned prison cells. This island is so remote it was once used as a prison for Thai political rebels. Fortunately, somewhere along the way, it was decided it would make a better paradise than purgatory.

Islands I would Skip

Beautiful beaches ruined by over-tourism. Unfortunately, there are plenty of Thailand’s 1,400+ islands that are overcrowded and unjustly expensive. Oddly enough, those two things go hand in hand. Personally, I would skip these heavily touristed ‘island paradises’.

• Koh Phi Phi/James Bond Island
• Pattaya ( not an island, but still worth mentioning )

These are the places travelers visit and leave disappointed. Don’t let yourself be fooled by Instagram’s deceptive depictions. There are more people than beach & it’s far from the picturesque paradise of your imagination.

There is one reason to end up in Phuket…Food.

A Chef’s Tour hosts two different food tours in the popular tourist city. This is without a doubt the best way to experience the local cuisine and understand Phuket on a deeper level.

Getting Around the Islands

Island hopping in Thailand is easy. A little more expensive than transport in the rest of the country but nonetheless easy. Small speed boats connect all the islands and depending on the time of year leave 2 times daily.

Weather matters in the Islands. The rainy season is fine & dandy if you plan on traveling mainland Thailand BUT no one wants their beach days ruined with torrential downpours. Avoid May-November in the Thai islands.

Cost of Travel in Thailand

I’m sure most travelers already know that Thailand is a cheap backpacker destination. But exactly how cheap? That’s completely up to you.

Our 47-Day Thailand Budget Breakdown

Thailand can be easily & comfortably traveled on a budget of $35-40 per day. On my most recent visit, we spent $46.61 per day as a couple !!

The islands are the most expensive part of travel in Thailand. The speed boats that shuttle you between beach paradises are costly & alcohol on the islands is double the price. The more touristed a place is the more expensive it’s bound to be. But on the mainland, there’s always a local option–be it transportation, food, or just an alternate activity.

I love Thailand. Known as the “Land of Smiles” locals welcome tourists with open arms. I’ll probably never be “finished” exploring Thailand. But this complete backpacker’s guide to Thailand should give you ALL the info you need to make your trip to Thailand one of your favorites. & help you navigate away from the crowds & off-the-beaten-path in Thailand.

Questions about Thailand? Or planning your dream trip? Feel free to shoot me an email at [email protected]. I would love to chat & help.

Further Reading...

The Ultimate Koh Kood Guide: Thailand’s Pirate Paradise 

3 Underrated Thai Islands: Complete Guide to Koh Libong, Koh Mook, & Koh Kradan

Happy Elephants: Your Guide to Visiting Truly Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries

Exciting celebrations and festivals around the world - travel melodies.

[…] Where: Chiang Mai, Thailand […]

Good guide overall but I missed a strong stance against sex tourism in the Bangkok section. Especially startling because you clearly distance yourself from unethical elephant tourism.

Hello Lina! Thanks for reading! I definitely DO NOT encourage sex tourism. Just wanted to make that abundantly clear. Bangkok has so much more to offer than Patpong Market and I don’t recommend it for visitors. I talked about it on this list as it is a hugely popular place thats recommended for tourists and I wanted to explain what the area was just so unsuspecting tourists don’t accidentally wind up there.

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Thailand backpacking route | 4 – 8 week thailand itinerary.

Thailand, the land of smiles, is usually the place where first-time backpacker start their trip in Southeast Asia. To help you get started here’s the ultimate ideal first-timers backpacking Thailand route. This itinerary takes in the best highlights that the country has to offer. This itinerary can easily take 4 to 8 weeks to complete, depending on your travel pace.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Getting to Thailand

Not everyone needs a visa to visit Thailand . However, travellers who do, need to be updated on the entry policies. UK citizens are granted a 30-day free visa upon arrival , both via air and land. We entered Thailand 3 times on our trip; once by air and twice overland. Each time we were granted a free 30-day visa.

Thailand is well-connected with other countries in Southeast Asia. Many travellers often start their journey in Thailand, as Bangkok is the international hub of the region. Also, flights into Bangkok from Europe are often cheaper than those flying into neighbouring countries. Bangkok is where we started our journey. We managed to bag a flight for just £ 305 one way from Manchester, England, with a layover in Qatar .

If you’re entering Thailand overland, you can enter from Laos , Cambodia or Myanmar. The bus is the cheapest option. You won’t find it too difficult to book a bus to Thailand as it’s easily accessible. You can book both tourist buses and local buses from all the above countries. If you want to book your bus beforehand, you can book online through Bookaway .

Once in Thailand you can also utilize the bus transit system to get around. To properly navigate Thailand’s bus system, it is best to at least speak a little Thai. This way, you may question and check with locals about local bus timetables and the best routes in case any internet information is unclear. To do this, you can learn Thai free by using a language learning application, and you should make sure you at least have a basic understanding of certain Thai words so you can get around with ease.

Looking for what to pack? Check out this essential Southeast Asia packing list

Backpacking Thailand itinerary

A Thailand backpacking route can be broken up into the north and south. The north of the country is very cultural and scenic, whilst the south boasts many beautiful beaches for relaxing in the day and partying in the night. You’re probably wondering how long does it take to backpack through Thailand? Well, depending on your travel pace, we recommend anything from 4 – 8 weeks. 4 weeks would be an ideal time to spend in the North of Thailand, whilst 2 – 4 weeks would be great for relaxing on the beaches in the South of Thailand. First, let’s start this backpacking Thailand route in the north.

Bangkok itinerary – Backpacking Thailand route stop 1

Bangkok is usually the first stop when backpacking in Thailand. Thailand’s capital is a busy place with plenty to see and do. It’s a great introduction to the chaotic cities of Southeast Asia. Here are a few unmissable attractions!

Koh San Road

Here is where many backpackers stay and party in the early hours of the morning. Koh San Road is packed with all kinds of bars, clubs, street food and hostels. Use this opportunity to have a few drinks. After having a few too many beers, dare yourself to tuck into a crunchy creepy crawly on a stick.

Wat Phra Kaew

This temple is situated on the grounds of the Grand Palace. This is the most famous temple in Bangkok and attracts many visitors. The temple looks extremely magical and pretty from the outside, but we decided not to go inside as we felt the cost was too high at 500 Baht ($16.55) per person.

Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. Here you can see the famous reclining Buddha. The entrance fee is 100 Baht ($3.31)  per person and you also get a free bottle of water.

War Arun is also known as the temple of the dawn. You may need to cross a river to get to this one. The journey across the river takes less than 5 minutes and costs just 2 Baht ($0.06). The price to get into Wat Arun is 50 Baht ($1.65) per person.

Explore other temples

If you like to look at temples, there are plenty more across Bangkok to admire. The ones we have mentioned above are just the most well-known and visited ones. If you’re looking for more off-the-beaten-track secrets, make sure to check out these top 3 secret things to do in Bangkok!

If you have extra time, consider a side trip to Khao Sam Rot Yot National Park for some awesome outdoor adventures.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya

It is time to move on from Thailand’s bustlin’ capital and head to the quieter, ancient city of Ayutthaya. The fastest way to get to Ayutthaya is by taking a mini-van from Moh Chit BTS station. Mini-vans leave regularly throughout the day and cost just 50 Baht ($1.65). The journey takes less than 2 hours. Alternatively, if you’re not ready to navigate the bustlin’ bus station, you can always book a private transfer . Or, if you’re on a super tight budget, hitchhiking in Thailand is easy too.

Places to visit in Ayutthaya – Backpacking Thailand route stop 2

Old temple ruins.

There are many old temples in Ayutthaya to see. Take a tuk-tuk around the old city and explore. Try to team up with other people in your accommodation so you can share the cost of the tuk-tuk. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle, which is a great way to get around at your own pace.

Ayutthaya to Phitsanulok

After a relaxing few days in Ayutthaya, get ready for the ultimate Thai experience by taking the rickety train to Phitsanulok. The journey takes between 3-5 hours, depending on which train you choose and costs 350 Baht ($11.58).

Phitsanulok – Backpacking Thailand route stop 3

Phitsanulok night market.

A stop in Phitsanulok is just a quick one to break up the journey to Chiang Mai. There is a large night market where you can satisfy your inner foodie needs and experience some new flavours. After taking the time to stroll down the night market, you can visit a few temples in the area.

Phitsanulok to Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a nice little stop if you’re not quite ready for a long journey to Chiang Mai. Just a one-hour drive from Phitsanulok, Sukothai can easily be reached by one of the many mini-buses that leave daily from Phitsanulok bus station. Public buses cost between 28-50 Baht ($0.93 – $1.65).

Sukothai – Backpacking Thailand route stop 4

Temple tour of sukhothai.

A trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without a whiz around on a tuk-tuk. Sukhothai is a great place to snag your chance and hire a tuk-tuk for a few hours to take you around all the temples. The cost of a tuk-tuk tour is just 200 Baht ($6.62) each.

Sukothai to Chiang Mai

To get to Chiang Mai, you will need to take the 1-hour bus back to Phitsanulok. From there you can either take the train or bus directly to Chiang Mai. The bus is the quickest and cheapest option. The bus costs between 220 – 330 Baht ($7.28 – $10.92) and takes a little over 5 hours. The train takes around 8 hours and costs almost double the amount of the bus.

Chiang Mai – Backpacking Thailand route stop 5

Songkran festival in chiang mai.

Next up is Chaing Mai, one of the most beautiful places in Thailand . There are many attractions in Chiang Mai, such as temples, hill tribe villages , the 3D Art Museum, a zoo, and tons of shopping malls. However, whilst on our trip to Chiang Mai, we didn’t manage to explore any of the above, due to enjoying firing water guns and chucking buckets of water for the Songkran Festival.

We spent our days in Chiang Mai loading up water guns and spraying the hundreds of partakers in the streets. Chiang Mai is a great place to be for the annual Songkran Festival which takes place on the 13th of April every year.

Whilst we didn’t get the chance to thoroughly see Chiang Mai, there is plenty of things to do there. Make sure to check out this comprehensive 6-day Chiang Mai guide for more ideas.

Chiang Mai to Pai

To get from Chaing Mai to Pai , you have a couple of options. From Chiang Mai, minivans run regularly throughout the day and take 3 hours to reach Pai. The cost of the mini-van is 150 Baht ($4.96) per person. Beware though, the roads on this route are very windy and those prone to travel sickness will probably need to bring along a plastic bag. Alternatively, you can drive the popular Mae Hong Son Loop by scooter. Be careful! It’s not for inexperienced drivers and you should only do this if you feel confident enough and are used to driving scooters or motorbikes.

What to do in Pai – Thailand backpacking route stop 6

Explore by scooter.

The best way to get around Pai is by scooter. Finding the main attractions is very easy, as they are well signposted. We recommend just driving around, getting lost and going on an adventure. Don’t worry, you will see plenty of signs directing you to the many viewpoints anyway. Here are some of the amazing sights you will come across (most are FREE ):

Pam Bok Waterfall

Love Strawberry Farm

Back garden pool

The heat in April is just so unbearable, and sometimes you just need to take a break in a pool to cool down. We came across a pool in someone’s back garden that the owners allow tourists to use for 20 Baht ($0.66) each.

The Land Split is exactly what it says on the tin…a split in the land. Accordingly, the farmer woke up one day to find a split in his land. Since that day, the split has grown bigger. When you arrive at the Land Split the owners welcome you with a drink and fruit. There is no cost to see the split, but donations are welcomed.

Cross the Bamboo Bridge

Most accommodation is located on one side of the Bamboo Bridge, whilst the other side boats plenty of eateries and bars. Spend a night on the strip trying different foods and chilling out on a bean bag with a bottle of Chang.

Pai to Chiang Rai

To get to Chiang Rai from Pai, you will need to take a minivan back to Chiang Mai. From Chiang Mai take a 3-hour bus journey to Chiang Rai. The cost of the bus ranges from 150 Baht ($4.96) to 300 Baht ($9.93) depending on which bus you choose. We recommend shopping around at the different desks at the bus stations for the cheapest bus.

Chiang Rai things to do – Backpacking Thailand route stop 7

There are many things to see in and around Chiang Rai, many people seem to just pass through Chiang Rai on their way to Laos, but trust us, it has a lot to offer!

We partnered up with another couple for the day and hired a car and driver , to take us around the sights. You can easily find tour packages in the many tourist shops along the main strip. The tour costs 600 Baht ($19.86) per person for a full day. Here are a few stops we made whilst on the tour.

White Temple

A new and unique temple that represents walking through the two realms; heaven and hell. The cost to enter is free. Visitors are required to cover their knees and shoulders. If you are wearing shorts, then you can rent a long skirt for 20 Baht ($0.66) from a stall just before entering the temple grounds.

Black House

The temple has a very different spin from the rest. Aside from the oddly unique design, everything inside is Gothic-like. The cost to go inside the grounds and the main house is 80 Baht ($2.65) per person.

Tea Plantations

Watch how tea is created whilst admiring the rolling, lush green tea fields.

Doi Tung Villa

Doi Tung Villa is the house and the gardens of the Princess Mother. You can go inside and take a headphone-guided tour through the house before relaxing in the lush gardens. The cost to enter is 90 Baht ($2.98) and includes the headphone guide.

Golden Triangle and House of Opium

On our trip we drove up to the golden triangle; where Thailand, Laos , and Myanmar meet. The golden triangle is also well-known for the wide distribution of opium. The admission fee to the House of Opium is 50 Baht ($1.65) per person.

Getting from the north of Thailand down to the southern islands

After travelling to the North of Thailand, many people who are continuing their travels around Southeast Asia cross the border into Laos , either via bus or slow boat into Luang Prabang . After completing the banana backpacking trail through Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia it’s common for backpackers to head for some beach time in Bali or to loop back into Thailand and head South to the Thai islands. Given the choice though, we fully recommend beach time in Thailand over Bali. Find out why here !

For those who are just travelling to Thailand, you would need to take an overnight bus to Bangkok, or a flight to your destination in the South, before continuing your journey. If you’re travelling overland, once you reach Bangkok, there are plenty of transport options for the islands. Check out the journey from Bangkok to Koh Phangan here.

South of Thailand and the Islands – Backpacking Thailand route stop 8

After a whirlwind of time exploring the north, you may be ready for some relaxing time on the stunning beaches in the south. There are many islands in the South of Thailand, so you may find it difficult to choose which ones you would like to visit. It could take years to fully explore all the islands, so we had no choice but to choose just a few. We chose to spend our beach time in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, all of which we believe are the perfect spots for first-timers to Thailand. Each place is blessed with ocean waves, diving opportunities , magical sunsets, and late-night parties. We spent most of our time on the islands scooting around on a motorbike and relaxing by the pool or in the sea.

Looking for day trips to take from Phuket? Check out these 6-day trips here.

The above itinerary is best for those that have 6 to 8 weeks, but we know that some people can only take 2 weeks off work. Thailand has so much to offer and it can be difficult to choose where to go. Check out this 2-week itinerary to get the most out of your time.

Getting around the Thai Islands

Phuket – Krabi: Public buses run regularly, cost 150 Baht ($4.96) and take just under 3 hours. There is also the option to take a ferry, but the bus is the cheapest option for those on a budget.

Krabi – Koh Samui: Along the strip in Krabi many tourist shops sell packages to get to Koh Samui. We paid 800 Baht ($26.47) each for the package which consisted of the bus travel and ferry. The total length of the journey is around 12 hours, despite the estimated time of 8 hours. This was due to having to change the bus 3 times.

Koh Samui – Koh Phangan: Ferries run regularly between the two islands. Prices range from 200-250 Baht ($6.22 – $8.27) and take between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Koh Phangan – Koh Tao: Ferries run regularly and take 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Koh Tao. The cost of the ferry ranges from 350 baht – 500 Baht ($11.58 – $16.55).

All of the above journeys can now be booked through Bookaway , a website to help you get around overland easily. All you need to do is open up your phone or laptop and select your journey. No need to go to the ticket office the day before to book your place!

If you need more information on getting around Thailand, make sure to check out this awesome comprehensive guide to transport in Thailand !

How much does it cost to backpack in Thailand?

Overall, Thailand is a cheap country in Asia to travel to . Below is a breakdown of costs for backpackers.

Currency: The local currency is the Thai Baht. At the time of writing the exchange rate is 33 Baht to $ 1.

Daily budget: Thailand is extremely cheap, particularly in the North. For the North of the country, we budgeted 750 Baht ( $2 0) per day, per person. As the South is more touristy, prices of hotels, food, and drink are a lot more, so we budgeted 1,000 Baht ($33) per day, per person.

Accommodation: Hotels/ hostels in the north of Thailand ranged from 250 Baht ($8.27) to 500 Baht ($16.55), for a double room with a private bathroom. In the South, accommodation costs between 600 Baht ($19.86) to 800 Baht ($26.47) for a double room.

Food and drink: Local Thai food costs around 50 Baht ($1.65) per meal in the north. In the South and on the Islands, local food ranges from 80 Baht ($2.65) to 150 Baht ($4.96). The local beer, Chang, costs 50 Baht ($1.65) in the north and 100 Baht ($3.31) in the south.

Motorbike rental : The cost to rent a motorbike for the day ranges from 150 Baht ($4.96) to 200 Baht ($6.62).

For a more detailed breakdown of costs, make sure to check out this in-depth post on how much it costs to travel to Thailand.

Where to stay in Thailand for budget travellers

Charan 41 Hotel, Bangkok – A cosy hostel in a quiet area just outside Koh San Road. The hostel is run by a sweet woman who is very helpful. Every morning she cooked us a delicious breakfast before we started our day. On occasions, she even took us around the city, and to the hospital to help us get our jabs. It was the perfect place to stay for starting our Thailand travel route.

Ayutthaya Riverside House, Ayutthaya  – Located right on the river bank. The rooms are clean and there is a social space downstairs with hammocks to relax in. Perfect for those who want a tranquil stay.

Red Brick Guesthouse, Chiang Mai – A Very popular hostel for young backpackers. The hostel has a swimming pool!

Pai Loess Resort, Pai –  One of the cheapest accommodations with air conditioning. The little huts are very clean and well-decorated. There are also hammocks on the balconies to relax whilst surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Busket Hostel, Chiang Rai – Modern and cosy hostel that is excellently located in the centre of town, and close to transport links. Beds also have curtains for added privacy.

Bed Hostel, Phuket – A modern and clean hostel! It provides dorm rooms and private twin rooms. It’s perfect for the social butterfly.

J Hotel, Krabi – Large, cosy clean rooms with double beds, a TV, and a private bathroom. Some rooms have balconies that overlook the sea. Great views!

Backpackers Hacienda, Koh Phangan  – Located in the quieter area of Koh Phangan, near Thong Sala Night Market . The rooms are basic, but the pool is amazing. The pool overlooks the beach and there is a pool bar as well.

Looking for party hostels in Chiang Mai? Check out these top 4 places to stay and party!

Backpacking Thailand travel tips

Bangkok tuk-tuk scam – Whilst walking around Bangkok you may be approached by tuk-tuk drivers offering to give you a free tour of the city, providing you enter a few shops so they can get free petrol. This does take up a lot of your time, but if you are just hanging around waiting for a flight like we were, then it’s not too bad. If you do decide to do this, then make sure NOT to buy anything from the shops as you are likely to be overcharged.

Far away drop-offs – Beware that when you book a bus you may be dropped off a few kilometres outside of your destination. You will then be greeted by many tuk-tuk drivers, whom you will have to pay to get to where you should’ve been dropped off in the first place. Annoying, we know! Our most memorable bus drop off was at 5.30 am at a petrol station a couple of miles out from Chiang Mai Bus Station.

Temple clothing – On this backpacking Thailand route you visit many temples. When you enter the temples, you will need to cover your shoulders and knees. If you forget to take suitable clothing with you, then don’t worry. You can always rent them from a stall. But try to save your money and remember to bring a sarong.

Expensive south – For those of you who are travelling to the south of Thailand from the north, don’t expect to budget the same amount of money. The south is a lot more touristy, making the prices of accommodation and food more expensive. Even the cost of coffee and toasties in 7Eleven is slightly more expensive.

Couples avoid Pattaya – We would not recommend Pattaya as a beach place for couples and families; the tourism here is mainly aimed at single men. And we all know what we mean by that!

Always agree on a price – When taking a tuk-tuk, taking a tour, or even buying things from the market, always agree on a price first. By agreeing on a price first, you lower the risk of overspending, and both you and the seller know what to expect.

Mosquito bites – Everywhere we went, we were bitten by mosquitoes. We think partly because Thailand was our first destination and we had not yet acclimatized to this part of the world. We were also told that the types of food you eat can also cause more bites. For example, if you eat foods with a lot of oil you are more likely to be bitten. Make sure you get a good repellent and use it twice a day to reduce the risk of those pesky critters eating away at you.

I s Thailand safe for tourists? – All in all, Thailand is super safe for tourists who use their common sense. Just like in any country, don’t take any substances from strangers and always keep your eye on your belongings.

Essential resources for this Thailand travel route

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

We hope this backpacking Thailand route will help you plan your exciting adventure. Of course, this backpacking Thailand route is not fully comprehensive of all the destinations and places to visit in Thailand, but we believe this is a great introduction for first-timers to the country.

Where’s your next destination? Maybe you are crossing over into Laos! Check out our backpacking Laos guide.

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Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in Thailand [2023]

Thailand was one of the very first countries I travelled to when I was 18, and fresh-faced out of sixth form ready to see the world. It was one of my favourites countries then, and still is to this day. Backpacking in Thailand is one of my most fond memories!

From its stunning beaches, expert scuba diving and flavoursome cuisine, the country is a must-visit when thinking of visiting Southeast Asia.

I have now visited Thailand four times, all when I was backpacking in my early 20’s. I just couldn’t keep away from this magnificent land and that’s why I’ve pulled together this guide to spending backpacking in Thailand for you. 

Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in Thailand

Planning a trip to thailand.

Are you planning a Thailand trip? As Thailand is quite a complex country, with lots of islands, jungles and remote villages, it is crucial to understand how you will spend your Thailand holiday when you get to Thailand before you arrive. 

If you are travelling to Thailand soon, I have an array of travel blogs related to travel to Thailand. I’ve also got a blog post on where to stay in Koh Tao , how to spend 10 days in Thailand and things to do in Koh Tao . As well as lots of other content including my ultimate guide to backpacking in Southeast Asia, as well as Vietnam and Cambodia . 

Coronavirus Update: Thailand travel advice

Following a government meeting in Thailand on 26 March 2021, a plan has been announced to open up Thailand to vaccinated travellers without the need for quarantine. The plan will take place in phases. In the first phase, Phuket will lead the way for the reopening of Thailand .

From 1 July 2021, fully vaccinated travellers can visit Phuket without the need to quarantine on arrival.  From 1 October 2021, fully vaccinated travellers can visit Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Phang Nga and Phuket without the need to quarantine on arrival. By the end of 2021/start of 2022, Thai authorities say that quarantine should be lifted entirely in all areas of Thailand for vaccinated visitors. The proposed date for this to happen is on or before 1 January, 2022.

*This information is subject to change and I will update this information box as often as possible. 

How to get around in Thailand

There are many ways to get around Thailand, and one of the best is on an overnight train. You set off in the evening and wake up in a new place in Thailand. This is the best way to minimise the time required for your Thailand travel. This way, you will get the most out of your Thailand trip.

Getting a flexible form of transport is really important, as although you will be doing your research (like now!) on your upcoming trip, once you get there, you will learn that there are even more incredible things to do in Thailand. 

And remember, the best luggage for travelling in Thailand is a backpack. Here are some of the best travel backpacks for women .

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

I always visited Thailand between the months of April and July, which is technically monsoon season but I never found it to be an issue. The climate varies throughout Thailand, and you can visit all year round. The best time to travel to Thailand is during the cool and dry season between November and early April.

In the south, the climate differs between the eastern and western coasts so everywhere is suitable at different times of the year. Between the months from April through to May you can find temperatures rise, sometimes to 40 degrees celsius.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Thailand

Phi phi islands, ko pha ngan.

• Full Moon parties & Sunrise beach

Where to stay in Thailand

Thailand is incredibly cheap and if you are happy to stay in hostels then your 10 days in Thailand will be incredibly inexpensive. It’s the perfect back for that backpacking as you can find hostels in Thailand for as little as $5 a night in some places. But of course the cheaper the hostel, the more rogue they can be. I’ve stayed in some ‘interesting’ hostels over the years.

My fave has to be a 36-bed dorm in Phi Phi where I spent many hungover days recovering….

You can often find really nice accommodation that’s really cheap too, with even some of the more luxury hotels and hostels at less than $20 a night for a room. Also, check out this guide  from Conde Nast for further detail on each island.

• Nappark Hostel At Khao San, Bangkok – £tbc – Get a feel for authentic Thai living with chilled vibes and atmospheric décor at the award-winning NapPark Hostel. The newly renovated Thai house sits in a garden under an amazing 150-year-old tamarind tree. 
• Sunset Beach Club, Haad Rin –  £24 – Pared-back rooms & suites with balconies in a casual hotel offering 4 pools & direct beach access.
• Dancing Elephant Beach Club, Koh Phangan   – £tbc – The Dancing Elephant is run by a warm-hearted owner and his staff. You’ll enjoy a wonderful time at the beach, 
• Pak-Up Hostel, Krabi – £tbc – The first to open in Krabi, Pak-Up Hostel has become a legendary meeting place for like-minded travellers. Head down to our Playground Bar every night for a free barbecue.
• The Vista Pool Villa, Kanchanaburi – £29 – Informal rooms & villas, some with pools, in an understated lodging offering free Wi-Fi & breakfast.
• Stamps Backpacker, Chiang Mai – £tbc – Unlike most hostels in Chiang Mai, dormitories are set up using a semi-private sleeping pod concept with a variety of room options including single-bed pod dorms and shared bunk-bed dormitories.

10 days in Thailand // Itinerary

• Day 1 – Arrive in Thailand and explore Bangkok 
• Day 2 – Explore Bangkok
• Day 3 – Travel to Chiang Mai and explore
• Day 4 – Explore Chiang Mai 
• Day 5 – Travel to Phuket and explore
• Day 6 – Explore Phuket
• Day 7 – Travel to Krabi
• Day 8 – Explore Krabi
• Day 9 – Travel to Koh Phi Phi 
• Day 10 – Last day in Koh Phi Phi and fly home

Bangkok 

You are probably asking yourself, where is Chiang Mai? It’s located a bit further away from the other backpacker hotspots, in the north of the country.

This is another very popular location in Thailand with a lot of restaurants and high-class villas. Most people visit the place knowing how many days in Chiang Mai they want to spend. But this is an incredible location that you will not want to leave. 

NOTE: One thing you should NOT do whilst you are travelling around Thailand is to visit Tiger Temples .

One of my favourite place in Thailand has to be the Phi Phi Islands. They are an island group in Thailand between the large island of Phuket and the Straits of Malacca coast of Thailand. The islands are administratively part of Krabi Province but are a world away from the commercial centres of Krabi and Phuket. It’s a great place to visit on a budget. 

No trip to Thailand is ever complete without a night at Ko Pha Ngan’s famous Full Moon Party. And what a party it is! The island is in Thailand’s southeast and is renowned for its monthly Full Moon Party.

The crazy night-long celebration, which is tied to the lunar calendar to its southeastern peninsula, Haad Rin and Sunrise Beach. It’s a must-do for any backpacker travelling to Thailand. 

Become a Digital Nomad 

Over the past eight years, I have meandered from job to job, living in six houses, in two countries, taken over 100 flights, to 24 countries around the world, bought a house, lived with my parents again, got engaged, been fired, quit jobs, had meltdowns, and spent many countless hours putting blood sweat and tears into my business. 

Thailand has previously been identified as a favourite amongst digital nomads, but even more so in recent years as it has emerged as an increasingly popular spot. With its broad scope of coworking offices, ideal for those wanting to work amongst other travellers and entrepreneurs, make connections or perhaps even collaborate.

Apart from the distinct beautiful scenery beaches renowned for surfing, and a range of restaurants/nightlife, you are also able to live well here on a budget. Therefore, Thailand is an excellent place for those who want to save some of their hard-earned money to travel elsewhere in the future.

Thinking of travelling the world and working? Check out my guide to becoming a digital nomad . 

*Content is part of a campaign with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). 

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

To book flights, I always use flight search engine Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through  Booking.com.  I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with Airbnb already, you can use  this link  to get £25 off your first visit!

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. 

You can also find me on social media:  Facebook ,  Twitter,   YouTube  and  Instagram .

Did you know I also vlog my trips? Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel so you get alerted when all my travel videos go live… CHECK THEM OUT HERE

Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please  share it for me with all your friends and family!

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Global Gallivanting

The ultimate thailand backpacking route & 1 month itinerary (2024).

Are you planning a backpacking trip to Thailand and wondering where to go? I’ve put together the ultimate Thailand backpacking route to help you out after many, many visits to this incredible country.

From temples to islands and elephant sanctuaries to full moon parties, there’s so many beautiful places to visit and bucket list experiences to be had while backpacking Thailand. Plus, it’s easy, safe, fun and cheap!

With so much to see and do it’s worth planning your Thailand itinerary , or at least a rough Thailand backpacking route, to make sure you don’t miss out on anything.

The Ultimate 1 Month Thailand Backpacking Route

In this blog post you’ll find the best Thailand backpacking route – perfect for a 1 month Thailand itinerary – as well as all the tips you need for backpacking Thailand. I hope it helps you have an amazing time!

Why Backpacking Thailand is so Popular

Backpacking Thailand might be one of the best experiences of your life! Seriously, it was for me and I’m not alone!

Thailand is one of the most popular countries in the world for backpackers because of its diversity, interesting culture, fantastic food, friendly locals, affordability , safety and ease of travel.

If you follow the popular Thailand backpacking routes and stay in backpacker hostels it’s so easy to meet like minded people, make new travel buddies and have a lot of fun.

Backpacking Thailand will allow you to experience some of the world’s best nightlife, beaches and islands as well as amazing historical and cultural sights, natural beauty spots and adventure activities.

And you can do this all on a Thailand backpacker budget of only $25 – $40 per day!

Thailand is fully open without any covid related restrictions but it’s a good idea to double check the latest entry requirements and keep up to date with the latest news from the Thailand Tourism Authority.

Thailand has also decriminalised cannabis and there are many cannabis dispensaries popping up all over the country. Here’s what you need to know about cannabis in Thailand now.

How long to spend backpacking Thailand

There’s so much to see and do when backpacking Thailand – from the glittering temples, jungles, treks and hill tribes of the North, to the buzzing metropolis of Bangkok to the paradise islands in the South that you might be wondering how to fit it all in.

Most nationalities get a free 30 day visa on arrival and I recommend making the most of it and spending at least 1 month backpacking Thailand. This will give you time to see the best Thailand has to offer and still have time to party and relax on the beaches.

I’ve visited Thailand many times and also lived in Koh Phangan and Chiang Mai so I thought I’d share my ideal 1 month Thailand itinerary and backpacking route to help you see the most of this incredible country.

If you have less time check out my recommended Thailand itinerary for a 2 week trip.

Tips for Planning your Thailand Itinerary and Backpacking Route

If you’re planning a Thailand backpacking trip you might be wondering what the popular Thailand backpacking routes are, or how you are going to fit all the amazing things to do in Thailand  into one trip.

Well, with this ultimate 1 month Thailand itinerary you can experience the best of both north and south in one epic adventure!

Thailand is well set up for tourism and is one of the safest, easiest and best places in the world for your first backpacking adventure – even if your going alone or a solo female traveler.

It’s also a great destination for couples, families and everyone looking for an exotic, exciting but still relaxing, safe and comfortable holiday.

It’s especially easy to backpack in Thailand and plan your Thailand itinerary due to the numerous day tours and accommodation options, modern train and bus systems and numerous daily flights that take you all over the entire country and not forgetting the helpful and friendly locals.

Check out my comprehensive Thailand travel guide for more tips.

Why you need to visit both the North and South of Thailand

The north of Thailand and the south are completely different from one another, which is what makes this country so special, and both should be included in your Thailand itinerary or backpacking route.

Many people get stuck on the islands and miss out of incredible sights in Northern Thailand which is such a shame because you’ve only seen half of what this amazing country has to offer.

In the northern Thailand, you’ll find Chiang Mai , the historical and cultural heart of Thailand packed with ancient temples as well as hip cafes and bars. Nearby is the hippie backpacker haven of Pai , with tons of healthy cafes and adventure activities, like waterfall trekking and soaking in hot springs, to enjoy.

The south is home to various party islands like Koh Phangan and Koh Phi Phi, as well as the resorts of Phuket and tiny laid back islands like Koh Lipe, with its secluded white sand beaches.

If you’re looking to rock climb, visit Krabi, famous for its towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, or if you’re looking for some jungle trekking, Khao Sok National Park may be calling your name.

There’s more tips for backpacking Thailand at the end of this itinerary, like when to visit, how to get around and what the ideal Thailand backpacker budget is, but for now, let’s get on with the itinerary.

The ideal travel route for 1 month backpacking Thailand would be:

Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – Ayutthaya – Sukhothai – Chiang Mai – Pai/Mae Hong Son – Chiang Rai – Khao Sok National Park – Koh Samui – Koh Phangan – Koh Tao or  Phuket – Koh Phi Phi – Krabi – Koh Lanta – Koh Lipe

Read on and I’ll explain more about these places and the best things to do there.

Bangkok – 3 or 4 days

The capital of Thailand is one of the liveliest cities in the world and the ideal place to start your Thailand backpacking route so it makes sense to be the start of your Thailand itinerary.

Bangkok boasts a vibrant and fun nightlife, colourful temples, and mouth watering street food stands that seem to be around every corner of the city. There’s plenty of things to do in Bangkok to keep you busy for at least 3 or 4 days.

You could spend hours simply wandering and exploring the fascinating streets of Bangkok, soaking up the culture and buzzing atmosphere but there’s a couple of Bangkok tourist attractions you won’t want to miss.

Things to do in Bangkok

• Visiting Wat Phra Kaew to marvel at the huge, golden, reclining Buddha.
• Explore the spectacular Grand Palace , a gorgeous glittering building that is the former royal residence.
• Drink buckets and party on Khao San Road – the world’s backpacker mecca.
• Try Bangkok’s amazing street food.
• Take a tuk tuk tour around the temples and markets at night.
• Take a Thai cooking class and learn how to cook it yourself.
• Shop for bargains and souvenirs at Chatuchak weekend market.
• Cruise along the Chao Praya River.
• Explore the unique floating markets and jump out of the way as the train comes through the unique railway market. This is the tour we took.
• Take in the views of the Bangkok skyline from the observation deck of the Baiyoke Sky Hotel.
• Visiting the The Ancient City or Muang Boran, a huge open air museum that brings Thailand’s long and unique history to life, is also worthwhile.

Where to stay in Bangkok:

Lub-d hostel.

This boutique backpacker hostel is situated next to the skytrain in the Siam district making it one of the most conveniently located backpacker hostels in Bangkok. Getting around and exploring this exciting, mega city will be a breeze and the hostel has thought of every detail to ensure you have a comfortable and fun stay. No wonder it’s one of the most popular backpacker hostels in Bangkok.   Click here for price, availability and booking.

The Mulberry

Formerly known as the popular Rikka Inn, this recently refurbished hotel is one of the best budget hotels in Bangkok. Unique, cozy rooms decorated with vintage Thai memorabilia and a rooftop pool make this a great place to stay in Bangkok. Add to that its location on Khaosan Road means you only need to step out of the door to be in the colourful backpacker district that entices so many to this city, but the sound proofing means you’ll still enjoy a good nights sleep. Click here for price, availability and booking.

How to get to Bangkok:

Bangkok has two airports, Suvarnabhumi (BKK) – which handles mostly long haul flights, and Don Mueang , which handles low cost flights around the rest of Thailand the Southeast Asia. It’s one of the easiest cities in Asia to get to.

There are also many buses and trains that leave to and from Bangkok to other parts of Thailand, as well as Malaysia and Singapore. You can book tickets easily online with 12 Go Asia.

• The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide to your first time in Bangkok ,
• The Best Places to Stay in Bangkok,
• The Best Backpacker Hostels in Bangkok ,
• Tips for visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace

Kanchanaburi – 1 or 2 Days

Known for the WWII Death Railway, Kanchanaburi will help you gain some interesting history knowledge and insight of Thailand’s role during the war.

The town also has beautiful river views and a rich history to explore with its numerous museums and cemeteries. There’s actually quite a few interesting places to see in Kanchanaburi that you could add a couple days to your Thailand itinerary to explore the town if you have time.

If you want to stay longer to explore the natural side of Thailand, it’s a great starting point for many national parks such as Sai Yok. Visiting Erawan National Park , home to the beautiful seven tiered Erawan Falls, is a must.

You can also visit the Phartat Cave, the Burma Railway, or the JEATH War Museum, where you can learn about WWII and Thailand’s military history.

Things to do in Kanchanaburi:

• Learn the history of the Thai-Burma railway at the Death Railway Museum,
• Hike to waterfalls in the beautiful Erawan National Park.
• Marvel at the stalactites of Phra That Cave.
• Walk with giants at Taweechai Elephant Park.
• Check out the ruined temple at Prasat Mueang Sing Historical Park.

Where to stay in Kanchanaburi:

Westory hostel.

This hostel (or “poshtel” as they brand it) is designed around the theme of a train journey where mingling with your co-passengers is encouraged, making it a very sociable place to stay in Kanchanaburi. Transport hubs are within walking distance and the famous night market is only ten minutes away. Click here for price, availability and booking.

Siam Guesthouse

An unassuming guesthouse that has gained a reputation as the best budget hotel in Kanchanaburi. The service you will get here is far above the price you will pay with all rooms having a terrace and air conditioning as well as views over their pretty garden. Click here for price, availability and booking.

How to get to Kanchanaburi:

There are daily minibuses, buses and trains departing from Bangkok. The journey takes about 2 and a half hours.

You can also see Kanchanaburi with this day tour from Bangkok which saves time.

Ayutthaya – 1 or 2 days

Ayutthaya is a city in Thailand with crumbling ruins of palaces, temples, statues, and monasteries. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle and spend the entire day exploring the ancient ruins and learning about this ancient Siamese Kingdom.

Some of the popular temples that you will definitely want to check out include Wat Mahathat, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, or Wat Phanan Choeng, which has a golden Buddha. Don’t miss Ayutthaya from your Thailand itinerary if your interested in Thai history, religion and culture.

Things to do in Ayutthaya:

• Explore the old city ruins that form the Historic City of Ayutthaya.
• See traditional craftmanship at the Thai Boat Museum.

Where to stay in Ayutthaya:

Plus hostel.

Despite being a little out of town this backpacker hostel is a great place to stay in Ayutthaya. They provide free breakfast and dinner as well as healthy snacks during the day. There’s a beautiful garden to relax in and, most importantly, two fluffy pillows on each bunk bed. Click here for price, availability and booking.

T&N Home

This welcoming, family-run hotel is wonderful for first-timers to the city. Everything you want to do can be arranged by the hotel and they will suggest exciting activities if you don’t have your own plans. Clean, comfy and so very friendly. Click here for prices, availability and booking.

How to get to Ayutthaya:

Ayutthaya is about 2 and a half hours taxi from Kanchanaburi which will cost around 2,000 baht. You could also take a local bus 1.5 hours to Suphanburi and then change and take another local bus to Kanchanaburi (2 hours) Daily trains leave from Bangkok train station to Ayutthaya and takes 2-3 hours to reach.

If you’re short on time you can see the best of Ayutthya as a day trip from Bangkok. 

Sukhothai – 1 or 2 days

Known for its ancient ruins, Sukhothai will take you back in time. Sukhothai was Thailand’s capital during the 13 th Century C.E., and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historical park is now a ruined city with temples and Buddha figures.

There are bicycle tours you can join so you can see all of the ruins and learn a little bit about the history surrounding them. This is the fun small group bicycle tour we took – you learn so much more about the ruins which really brings them to life, plus you can cover much more ground than you can by just walking.

If you want to save time you could choose between including Ayutthaya or Sukhothai in your Thailand itinerary.

Where to stay in Sukhothai:

Dorm of happiness.

In an area with very few backpacker hostels you’ll be overjoyed with Dorm of Happiness. They provide bed linen and towels in every room (a rarity for hostels!) and there’s even a swimming pool and restaurant on-site for a very hotel-like experience on a backpacker’s budget. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

Thai Thai Sukhothai Resort

If you’re travelling as a couple or have a little extra to spend then you should take a look at Thai Thai Sukhothai Resort. It’s spacious, clean and green, with small gardens outside each room, and the wooden furnishings add a real touch of class to your stay. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

How to get to Sukhothai:

You can get a bus or train from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai and the journey takes about 6 hours.

Chiang Mai – 3 or 4 days

Chiang Mai is a beautiful cultured city nestled amongst the mountains of northern Thailand. It was founded in 1296, and the walls and moats from the Old City still stand today, making it a fascinating place to learn about Thailand’s history and culture so it should not be missed from any Thailand itinerary or backpacking route.

The Best Things to do in Chiang Mai

There’s so much to do in Chiang Mai and the surrounding area. The Old City is packed with gorgeous, ancient temples to explore, such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh and you can’t miss visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which perches over the city from the mountain top.

Chiang Mai is also a modern and fun city with tons of buzzing night markets, hip cafes and bars and cheap backpacker hostels. It’s not just one of the most popular places for backpackers in Thailand, it’s also one of the biggest hubs in the world for digital nomads with numerous cafes and coworking spaces.

If you’re a nature and animal lover, then Doi Suthep and the Elephant Nature Park are two popular places in Chiang Mai that may peak your interest. Read my full post on the best attractions and things to do in Chiang Mai for more.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai:

Chiang Mai is a diverse city so check out my guide to where to stay in Chiang Mai to find your perfect place.

Generally speaking the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai for backpackers are the Old City for history and culture or Nimman for modern cafes and nightlife.

Stamps Backpackers

Stamps is the place to be for meeting fellow backpackers in Chiang Mai. It’s often busy with friendly faces from all over the world and encourages social activities without spilling into being a party hostel.

The location is super convenient, situated by the moat of the Old City and within a short walking distance from the buzzing night bazaar.

Traditional bunk beds are available as well as funky modern ‘pod’ beds, and there’s also a bar and restaurant on site. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

Chill Chill Nimman

Centrally located and close to amenities, Chill Chill is a great affordable apartment hotel in the trendy Nimman area of Chiang Mai with good views over the city close to all the cafes, bars and boutiques. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

How to get to Chiang Mai:

Buses and trains take about 8 hours from Sukothai to Chiang Mai. There’s also an airport at Chiang Mai which operates international and domestic flights. It only takes 1 hour to fly from Bangkok but the best way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is on the overnight train which takes about 11 hours.

Pai, Mae Hong Son – 3 or 4 days

Pai is a hippie backpacker town nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand several hours from Chiang Mai.

Pai is one of the most popular places for backpackers in Thailand. Here you’ll find cosy cafes decorated with tapestries and colourful pillows that serve delicious vegan and vegetarian food, as well as bars that have live music nights, and tons of opportunities for you to explore the surrounding forest, hot springs, and mountains.

Make sure to spend an evening shopping and eating on Walking Street; you won’t be able to resist all of the delicious aromas of street food!

You can easily spend the day renting a motorbike and driving to the Tha Pai hot spring and then to Mae Paeng Waterfall, and to various treks around Pai.

Many backpackers watch the sunset from the Big Buddha or Pai Canyon, a gorgeous orange canyon just outside of the town that you can hike along.

Where to stay in Pai:

Blue house hostel.

Featuring a restaurant, swimming pool and bar, Blue House Pai is a great stop while backpacking in Pai. Situated close to the river in a quiet, green area you’ll be able to chill and meet other travellers without spending too much. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

The Nest House

The Nest House is one of the best reviewed hotels in Pai, and it’s affordable for all. Located very close to the walking street shopping area and with mountain views, it’s hard to fault this clean and comfortable budget hotel. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

How to get to Pai:

You’ll first have to arrive in Chiang Mai, and then take a minibus to Pai. The journey to Pai takes several hours and is quite windy, and there are multiple minibuses leaving from the morning to evening to Pai. You can also choose to rent a motorbike and drive to Pai, the company will deliver your bags for you!  

Chiang Rai –  2 or 3 days

Chiang Rai is famous for the spectacular and unique white temple, Wat Rong Khun , and is well worth including in your Thailand backpacking route.

The White Temple is more like an art exhibit than a temple and is one of the most amazing temples and sights I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen alot of temples!). Gaze at the intricate and interesting designs, and make sure to really explore the temple!

Also make sure you visit the Blue Temple (Rong Suea Ten) and the Black House Museum ( Baam Dam.) Further north you can explore Thailand’s Golden Triangle where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet along the Mekong River in an area that used to be famous for it’s opium production.

Where to stay in Chiang Rai:

Stay in chiangrai.

Surrounded by markets and restaurants, Stay in Chiangrai is an exceptionally located backpacker hostel. They offer a friendly, family-like vibe with social areas and well furnished bunks. Plus there’s a female-only dormitory for those that appreciate additional security and peace of mind. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

Sleepy House

Clean, bright and spacious with a noticeable cat theme throughout the property, there’s plenty to love at Sleep House. A very modern hotel right in the heart of town with easy access to all the best things to do in Chiang Rai. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

How to get to Chiang Rai:

The bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai takes 3-4 hours.

If you’re doing a trip around Southeast Asia catch the slow boat to Laos and then continue the rest of the Thailand itinerary from Bangkok once you get back around.

Heading down to the Thai Islands…

Thailand’s islands are some of the best in the world and it would be a crime to not include beach time in any Thailand itinerary! The islands are one of the highlights of backpacking Thailand and shouldn’t be missed.

Head back down to Bangkok by overnight train or bus. You’ll probably need to spend a night in Bangkok again before catching your connecting bus, train or flight to the South to Phuket or Surat Thani.

Khao Sok National Park – 1 or 2 days

Before you head off to Thailand’s amazing beaches and islands if you’re a nature lover visiting Khao Sok National Park is definitely worth including in your backpacking Thailand itinerary.

The park consists of towering limestone formations and a lush jungle that you can trek through. Relish in the species of flora, fauna, birds, and animals, and learn about Thailand’s natural environment first hand.

You can choose to explore the national park however you choose, whether that be hiking, kayaking, or rafting on the massive man-made lake, Cheow Lan Lake.

Where to stay in Khao Sok:

Khaosok secret hostel.

A funky backpacker hostel with super helpful staff, clean rooms and comfy beds. There’s a great vibe here with guests from all over the world and cute social areas to share your travel stories and pick up tips on what to see during your stay in Khao Sok. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

Green Mountain View

Surrounded by lush nature and great views, there’s something special about this budget hotel. Staying in one of the huts and cycling around the national park will give you the full Khao Sok jungle experience. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

How to get to Khao Sok:

The fastest way to get to Khao Sok is to fly to Surat Thani or Phuket. There are mini buses from both locations to Khao Sok.

Southern Thai Islands

Thailand is home to some of the very best beaches and most paradiscal islands in the world so no backpacking Thailand itinerary could miss out some beach time!

Depending on the season, you’ll want to visit either the East Coast or West Coast islands to avoid the rain. Between May – Oct its best to island hop on the East Coast and between Nov – April hit the beaches on the West Coast islands.

Read on to see my top tips for both sides…

East Coast Islands (May – Oct)

Koh Samui – 2 or 3 days

Start off your Thai island hopping adventure relaxing on the beach with a coconut on Thailand’s second largest island – Koh Samui. The island consists of white sand beaches, clear turquoise oceans, dense jungle, and plenty of opportunities to pamper yourself and take full advantage of the meaning of a holiday.

Koh Samui is a great place to include on everyone’s Thailand itinerary, whether you’re a backpacker, couple, or family, since you’ll find both a party atmosphere and a laid back, chilled out atmosphere on the island.

You’ll want to check out the popular Chaweng Beach, as well as make your way to two of the Na Muang Waterfalls. Also don’t miss exploring the temples and visiting the Big Buddha statue and the Secret Buddha Garden in the jungle, an interesting collection of Buddha statues.

Where to stay on Koh Samui:

It’s really easy to get to Chill Inn as it’s right on the main ring road, but it also faces out onto a beautiful secluded beach which completely takes you away from the busy streets. There’s waterfalls and viewpoints within close distance and the hostel provides beach games and water activities as well as great music all day long. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

The Summer House

Close to the airport, pier and several beaches, this hotel will help take out a lot of the stresses of travelling on a budget. Their rooms are fitted with all the essentials plus a few luxuries, and the hosts are really friendly too. Click here for prices, availability, reviews and booking .

How to get to Koh Samui:

Koh Samui has an airport but flights are usually quite expensive. You can also fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani and take a ferry to Koh Samui. I always buy the combined flight, bus, boat tickets to make the journey hassle free.

You can also buy combined overnight train from Bangkok, bus and ferry tickets to Koh Samui. An easy place to buy tickets online is 12goAsia . If you’re coming from Khao Sok take a bus to Surat Thani where you can easily connect to the bus and ferry.

Koh Phangan – 2 or 3 days

Koh Phangan is one places you shouldn’t miss out on when backpacking Thailand. The island is famous for its monthly Full Moon Party , a massive party on the beach that attracts tens of thousands of people every single month.

Deck yourself out in UV glow paint and sip on buckets at the Full Moon Party as you watch the sun come up over the horizon with various techno, house, and EDM beats blasting from the beach clubs and bars. If it’s not full moon time when you visit don’t worry as there are lots of amazing parties on all month.

Koh Phangan still has a lot to offer and should be in your Thailand itinerary even if you don’t want to party. There’s many yoga retreats as well as a massive national park called Than Sadet Ko Phagnan National Park, with numerous waterfalls, secluded beaches, and gorgeous hiking opportunities that you shouldn’t miss out on if you’re visiting the island.

Phaeng Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall with a nice lookout point in the jungle.  Haad Yuan Beach and Ao Thong Nai Pan are two stunning beaches with huts and bungalows that you should definitely visit.

Where to stay on Koh Phangan:

Echo beach hostel.

Just ten minutes from the full moon parties and sitting right on the beach, this hostel is perfect for a fun-filled stay in Ban Tai on Koh Phangan. This is definitely a social backpacker hostel and the good vibes you find here will stay with you for life. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

Seacroft Bamboo Village

A beautiful property with traditional wooden huts surrounded by coconut palms, you could easily think you were staying in a luxury resort. But the room prices are very reasonable and the host treats guests like family as well as being very knowledgeable about the local area. Highly recommended. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

See more: 7 Best Backpacker Hostels in Koh Phangan/ Where to stay in Koh Phangan (for all areas and all budgets)

How to get to Koh Phangan:

The ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan only takes about 30 mins.

Read More of my posts on Koh Phangan

Ko Tao – 2 or 3 days

Known for its colourful and vibrant coral reefs, Ko Tao is one of the best places in Thailand for scuba diving and one of the cheapest places in the world to get your PADI diving certification.

While diving you’ll have the chance to see rays and whale sharks, as well as other numerous species of fish and marine wild life.

The small island has a laid back atmosphere, lively nightlife and many beautiful bays, secluded beaches and viewpoints including the Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint which is one of the most picturesque in all of Thailand.

If you want to learn how to dive and get your PADI you’ll need to spend at least 5 days in Koh Tao but if you’re just checking it out 2 or 3 days in enough as it’s not a huge island – unless you fall in love and never want to leave that is!

Where to stay on Ko Tao:

Summer hostel.

Comfy bean bags in the common room and colourful bunks in the dorms make Summer Hostel a real pleasure to stay at. The beds are large and comfy, plus there’s private balconies and complimentary drinks. Overall a fantastic hostel on Koh Tao. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

Koh Tao Heritage

Right by the beach with spectacular views, this hotel really soaks you in the Koh Tao experience. The nightlife is close by and the hostess will always do her best to make your stay truly exceptional. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

How to get to Ko Tao:

The ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao takes about 1 hour.

West Coast Andaman Islands ( Nov – April)

Phuket – 3 Days

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and the country’s most popular tourist destination. It’s blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, the nightlife at Patong beach is legendary and there’s numerous attractions and things to do in Phuket . From waterparks and elephant sanctuaries to night markets and Buddhist temples – you’ll find everything in Phuket.

Before tourism, the island was a rubber and tin mining hub that attracted many traders from over the world. This created a unique culture which you can explore in colourful Old Phuket Town.

Visit on Sunday to combine your trip with the Sunday walking street night market and also make sure to go up and admire the Big Buddha pearched on a hilltop nearby offering stunning views over the island.

Phuket also makes a great base for island hopping with Koh Phi Phi and hundreds of other lesser known paradise islands that make a great day trip from Phuket.

If you’re limited for time, or just don’t want to move around so much, you could base yourself in Phuket and take some island hopping day trips for an easy way to experience some of the most beautiful parts of southern Thailand.

Where to Stay in Phuket:

Phuket is popular with backpackers, families and is also home to some amazing luxury resorts so there’s no shortage of accommodation and places to stay in Phuket whatever your budget.

If you’re looking for crazy nightlife, affordable backpacker hostels and a young and fun atmosphere head to popular Patong beach and Bangla Road.

Lub d Phuket Patong

Phuket’s branch of this popular stylish backpacker hostel chain offers air conditioned 4 bed dormitory rooms as well as deluxe private rooms in a sociable environment. There’s a large swimming pool, cafe and bar and plenty of lounging hang out areas. Great for meeting people to party with in Patong and chilling in the day.

U Sabai Living Hotel

A great budget hotel in Patong with lovely friendly staff in a convenient location that gives easy access all the action and is just 10 minutes walking distance from the beach.

How to Get to Phuket:

Phuket has an international airport receiving many flights from all over Thailand and the world. You can also get a sleeper bus from Bangkok or a train and bus combination.

Koh Phi Phi –  2 – 3 days

The Phi Phi islands are an archipelago of 6 islands, located between Phuket and Krabi, that are some of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in all of Thailand. The islands are home to beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, underwater marine life, limestone cliffs and tropical jungles.

Phi Phi Don has plenty of hostels, bars and restaurants and will be your base while you explore the islands. Nowadays it has become quite a party island with many beach bars, clubs, and restaurants that are open until early in the morning and boozy sailing cruises and boat trips. Phi Phi Viewpoint is an excellent place to hike up to for some awesome photos of this most picturesque Thai island paradise.

Nearby Phi Phi Leh is an uninhabited island where you’ll find Maya Bay and many other natural beauty spots like Viking Cave. Maya Bay and Koh Phi Phi shot to stardom after the movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed here in 2000 so whilst it does get crowded it’s a must see on everyone’s Thailand backpacker route.

Where to stay on Koh Phi Phi:

Voyagers hostel.

The complimentary hot drinks and biscuits are just the start of the exceptional hospitality you will experience if you choose to stay at Voyagers Hostel. The friendly and open atmosphere attracts many solo travellers and backpackers to share your time on Koh Phi Phi with. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

Viking Nature Resort

The simple, beautiful huts made from natural materials at Viking Nature Resort are surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation and placed on a private sandy beach making this hands down one of the best places to stay on Koh Phi Phi. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

How to get to Koh Phi Phi:

The ferry to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket takes about 2 hours. You could also take a ferry from Krabi

Krabi –  2 or 3 days

Krabi is more laid back and not as popular as Phuket, but just as beautiful!

Krabi is home to spectacular limestone cliffs that tower over the ocean, mangrove forests, a 150-kilometer coastline with stunning beaches, and tons of tiny islands just of its shores, including Koh Phi Phi.

Take a long tail boat from Ao Nang beach over to Railay Beach, a amazing place for rock climbing and one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Thailand. There’s also the chance to go kayaking, snorkelling, diving and trekking in Krabi.

If you’re after culture explore Krabi Town and browse the weekend night market, if you’re after nightlife you’ll find plenty of bars to party at in Ao Nang.

For a unique adventure in the nature head to the Tiger Cave Temple, a Buddhist temple and meditation centre situated on a hill with epic panoramic views.

Another one of my favorite things to do in Krabi was relaxing in the Klong Thom hot springs and the Emerald Pool nestled in the jungle of Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve.

Where to stay in Krabi:

Kbunk hostel.

A lively hostel with a party vibe, close to all the fun things to do in Ao Nang and super helpful staff. They offer affordable and tasty food that can be ordered at reception as well as organising local bar crawls and other day trips. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

Peak Boutique City Hotel

This modern hotel is in a quiet area with good connections to the city. The rooms are spacious with large beds and clean, private bathrooms. The WIFI is amongst the best around making it suitable for digital nomads, plus it’s one of the most affordable hotels in Krabi. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

How to get to Krabi:

There are plenty of ferries going from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi that take about 1.5 hours. You can also get a ferry from Phuket.

Krabi also has an airport that receives both domestic and international flights. You can also take an overnight bus from Bangkok.

Koh Lanta – 2 or 3 days

If you’re looking to get a bit more off the tourist trail then include the laid back island of Koh Lanta Yai on your Thailand backpacking itinerary.

Koh Lanta is the largest island in the Mu Ko Lanta National Park in Krabi province. It offers long sandy beaches, jungles, waterfalls and rich marine wildlife with great diving and snorkeling opportunities. You can go hiking to unspolit beaches in the national park at the southern end of the island.

While Koh Lanta has become popular with backpackers and digital nomads in recent years, and has some great coworking spaces and a low key nightlife scene, it’s still refreshingly more authentic than places like Phuket and Phi Phi.

Explore Ban Si Raya, Koh Lanta’s old town, where you’ll see old wooden stilt houses and a pier that give a glimpse into a more local side of Thai island life. There are also many beach bars and restaurants in Koh Lanta, so grab a coconut or cocktail and enjoy the laid back vibes.

Where to stay on Koh Lanta:

Hub of joys.

Located close to Long Beach, famed for its snorkelling and horse riding tours, this modern hostel offers everything that you would need while backpacking Koh Lanta. Don’t miss out on their free breakfast – essential after a night out on the island. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

Deep House Sea View

A serene location overlooking the sea where beautiful sunrises remind you that this truly is a paradise get-away. Very close to the Old Town Market and surrounded by mangrove forest, it can be hard to believe that this is an affordable place to stay. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

How to get to Koh Lanta:

From Krabi, the ferry ride to Koh Lanta takes about 2 hours.

Koh Lipe – 2 days

A gorgeous little island in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe is part of Tarutao National Marine Park and has white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, colourful coral reefs and shipwreck dive sites.

With its spectacular beaches this tiny island is even referred to as the Maldives of Thailand! Koh Lipe is a great place to relax, soak up the castaway island vibes and enjoy the spectacular sunsets away from the crowds at the popular Thai islands.

(P.S Did you know that it’s possible to explore the Maldives on a budget? Read my post about backpacking the Maldives if you want to tick this paradise off your bucket list too without waiting for your honeymoon!)

Where to stay on Koh Lipe:

The hideaway.

Set in a peaceful garden close to Sunrise Beach, The Hideaway offers beds in dormitories as well as private bungalows made from natural materials. They accommodate all types of backpacker and will assist in making the most of your time on this island. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

Forra Dive Resort

Breezy bamboo cottages just moments from the beaches and walking street. If diving, snorkelling and nature are your thing then Forra Dive Resort should be the first place you look at when staying on Koh Lipe. Click here for prices, reviews and booking .

How to get to Koh Lipe:

The ferry from Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe takes about 3 hours or you can take a quicker, but often bumpy, speedboat ride.

Once you’ve seen the best of the Thai islands then, if you are backpacking Southeast Asia you can easily continue down through Malaysia to KL or Singapore.

Take the boat from Koh Lipe to Langkawi island in Malaysia and check out my Malaysia backpacking Itinerary .

Or if it’s the end of your trip then take an overnight train, bus or catch a flight back to Bangkok to head home.

2 Week Thailand Backpacking Route

In this blog post I’ve focused on my 1 month Thailand itinerary which is ideal for the ultimate Thailand backpacking route and allows you to experience the best of what backpacking Thailand has to offer.

If you have less time you could also cover the highlights in just 2 weeks by skipping some places, taking day tours to save you time or spending fewer days.

If you’re really short on time then the places you really can’t miss out on are Bangkok, Chiang Mai and spending some time on the islands.

Here’s my suggestion for the best 2 week Thailand backpacking route:

Bangkok – Sukhothai – Chiang Mai -Pai/Mae Hong Son – Koh Phangan + Koh Tao or Phuket + Koh Phi Phi + Krabi

You can still see a lot of Thailand in only 2 weeks if you save time by taking day trips to some places from Bangkok and Chiang Mai and Phuket.

Backpacking Thailand: Essential Thailand Travel Tips

Thailand backpacking budget.

$25 – 40/day ( Read more here on my Thailand backpacking budget )

Best time to visit Thailand

There are generally three seasons in Thailand: hot, cool, and wet. Cool season provides favourable weather conditions with sunny, clear skies and warm temperatures.

The best time for backpacking Thailand is in the cool season during November- March but traveling in the rainy season is also possible and has advantages . ( Read more here on the weather )

Visas for Thailand

Many nationals from countries such as U.K., U.S.A., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand get 30 days visa free when arriving to Thailand via air with an onward ticket (that they sometimes check although they have never checked mine), and 15 days visa free when arriving via land.

You can extend your visa by another 30 days by going to an immigration office and paying about 2,000 baht or apply for a longer visa at any Thai Embassy. It’s better to get at least 30 days because there is so much to see in Thailand. More visa info here.

Getting around Thailand

Thailand’s transportation system is modern and efficient making it easy to backpack Thailand. Trains, buses, flights, boats, taxis and tuk-tuks operate all over Thailand.

Trains are comfortable and can save on night’s accommodation, and buses are convenient and comfortable, especially when you book a luxury bus. When planning your backpacking Thailand itinerary in advance you can book your transport in Thailand online easily using 12 Go Asia

Budget Accommodation and Backpacker Hostels in Thailand

Thailand has all types of accommodation, whether you’re looking for luxury 5 star hotels with rooftop pools or cheap guesthouses and sociable backpacker hostels.

I’ve recommended accommodation for each destination – you might also like these posts: The best places to stay in Bangkok ,   The best backpacker hostels in Bangkok ,   The best backpacker hostels in Thailand recommended by fellow travel bloggers.

Thailand is also an amazing place to take a yoga retreat – see my top 6 Thailand yoga retreats here.

Volunteering in Thailand

Thailand is an amazing country for backpackers and budget travellers however there are still many poor communities who could really do with your help.

Many backpackers in Thailand like to do something to give back to the community. Instead of paying 1000’s to volunteer sign up with Worldpackers and you can exchange your skills and time for free accommodation, food and many other benefits.

By volunteering you can get immersed into the local culture, make friends with the locals, learn new skills all while helping those in need and saving yourself money so you can travel for longer. Click on this link and use my discount code GLOBALGALLIVANTING to save $20 on the membership fee. Read more about volunteering in Southeast Asia for free with Worldpackers here.

Thailand Backpacker Tours

Thailand is easy to backpack or travel independently but if you don’t want to go it alone or just want to take the hassle out of planning and arranging your Thailand itinerary for yourself then there are some great backpacker tours of Thailand that will get you to all the highlights as well as off the beaten track to some less touristy experiences.

My favourite budget Thailand backpacking tour is the 15 days Thailand: Night Markets and Blue Waters tour by G Adventures, starting at $1000 it’s good for backpackers and young, fun, adventurous travellers who want to see all Thailand’s highlights – Bangkok, Chiang Mai, a hilltribe trek, Khao Sok National Park and the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Get more info here, or for more of my Thailand tour recommendations check out this post.

Best Thailand Guidebook

The  Lonely Planet Thailand Guidebook has tons of key information for pretty much every tourist destination in Thailand. It’s invaluable for backpacking Thailand and no traveller should leave home without it. Save money and buy it on Amazon.

More Backpacking Thailand Blog Posts

• A Backpacker’s Guide to Bangkok
• The best backpacker hostels in Thailand recommended by fellow travel bloggers.
• The best Thailand yoga retreats
• 2 week Thailand itinerary

Why I Hated Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party

The top 5 best backpacker hostels in mumbai.

Related posts

How to avoid the crowds when visiting the sistine chapel & vatican, why i loved backpacking cambodia and didn’t want to leave, is hoi an too touristy my honest opinion, 27 comments.

wow thailand super

Nice post. This was really helpful post, thanks!

Been to a lot of places in Thailand, but you have been to more!!! So jelly!

Damn, you’ve seen more in 1 month than me in 3 years living in Bangkok. Can’t wait to visit the north though, it looks amazing.

Thanks! You must be busy with work and life in Bangkok though so its understandable. Hope you get to see more of amazing Thailand soon! 🙂

cn you recommend any car companies with drivers in Thailand we are following your itinerary from Bangkok up to Chiang man and would like a recommended driver and company please

Hi Jacqui. Great to hear you liked the post and are following the itinerary! 🙂 I took public transport so I can’t really recommend a driver sorry. Hope you have a great time in Thailand!

Hey lovely!

This is a super fantastic itinerary. I’m currently planning my 9 months around SE Asia from Nov and I’m feeling overwhelmed with planning, it’s not my greatest strength so this is very helpful.

Why do you recommend doing the East Islands from May through to October? I’m thinking of seeing both but if there was a cruicial reason I’d reconsider.

Glad you found the post helpful – don’t get overwhelmed by planning! SEA is easy to travel around and you don’t need to book every single thing in advance – you can take it as you go along although its a good idea to have a general route planned.

Thailand has 2 monsoon periods – so thats why I recommend East coast islands in May – October and West Coast – Nov – April to avoid the rains – islands aren’t much fun in the rain but luckily because there are 2 monsoons you should be able to find a sunny island paradise whatever time of year you visit.

Hope you have a fab trip! 🙂

I am so much in love with all your blogs & itineraries and places that you had been travelled. Hope some day if i get a chance to meet you. My wish & dream is same to travel and be bagpacker, but i couldn’t manage my savings.

Thanks Suman, so nice to hear you love my blogs! I really hope you get a chance to travel more someday! 🙂

Hey! I’m planning a backpacking trip to Thailand in January. You mentioned Koh phangan and Tao for around October. Would it not be possible to visit these places during January? Thank you! 🙂

Yes, January is one of the best times to visit Thailand, both those islands should be in the dry season then. Have a great trip! 🙂

Loved Thailand in 83. Been back since…… Still us hippies did destroy, Ikons, within paradise. The Beach. So its a year of ..wait. re- discover. Sorry folks Kathmandu and Manalli, are over booked. Peace and love, for 2021. Regards. Wayne.

[…] My Ultimate Thailand Itinerary and Backpacking Route […]

I am super excited to visit Thailand, Which time is best for the visit to Thailand?

It depends on where you want to visit but in general the best time to visit Thailand is in the cool season during November- March

Thanks for sharing the post, It is helpful for me in the future I’m planning a backpacking trip to Thailand in 2023. I appreciate that I found such a kind of information in this blog.

[…] If you’ve got more time to play with then check out this 1 month Thailand backpacking route. […]

[…] adventure – it’s cheap, easy and there’s so much to do and explore. Check out my ultimate Thailand backpacking route and itinerary for where to go. Even though Thailand is cheap it’s always useful to know how much to […]

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[…] For more about the costs of living and traveling in Thailand check out my Backpacking Thailand Budget and for more tips and inspiration for traveling in Thailand on a budget check out my 1 month Ultimate Thailand backpacking itinerary  […]

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The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide to Thailand: 1 Month Itinerary

Thailand has been on our bucket list for a while now and luckily, last year we were able to spend many months exploring the ancient temples, beautiful beaches and vibrant street markets. 

After spending two months there, we have prepared for you the ultimate one-month Thailand itinerary so you can adventure around in the most effective way possible. This is not just an itinerary though, it is a real deep dive into backpacking around Thailand. We will show you how to navigate the local transportation, uncover hidden guesthouses, and embrace the art of backpacking, ensuring that your journey is as authentic and adventurous as can be.

So pack your bags and let the magic of Thailand sweep you away on an extraordinary odyssey. With our guidance, you’ll discover the perfect blend of awe-inspiring sights, exhilarating adventures, and soul-enriching experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your wanderlust-filled heart. 

Do you need a visa to spend a month in Thailand? 

Whether you need a visa depends on what citizenship you have. If you hold citizenship from Brazil, Argentina, South Korea, Peru or Chile then you can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 90 days!

However, it is more than likely that you can enter Thailand for up to 30 days visa-free. This is because countries such as the US, UK, Canada, France and many other European and Asian countries are in this category. Make sure to check out the guide to Thai visas here .

What to pack for 30 days in Thailand

Whether you are just spending a month in Thailand for an extended holiday or whether you are backpacking the whole of Southeast Asia, you are going to need to know what to pack! 

Our full Thailand packing guide is pending but here’s a quick rundown in the meantime.

Taking a roll-on suitcase when you are travelling Thailand is a HUGE no-no! Unless you are spending a couple of weeks in a 5* hotel in Phuket, you’re going to want a backpack that you’ll feel comfortable carrying for long periods at a time. 

We personally love the Osprey range of backpacks! My Osprey backpack is specially designed for the girlies meaning they are a lot easier and comfier to carry compared to your standard rucksack. This size in particular is perfect for backpacking Thailand, you really don’t need any bigger! 

Clothing 

The key to packing clothing for Thailand is light, breathable clothing and nothing that you don’t mind getting lost or ruined. You’ll probably buy at least 100 pairs of linen trousers at the street markets when you’re there so honestly just take as little as possible. 

Do pack a fleece or a jumper for evenings as sometimes it does get a little chilly and you might just use it to sleep in when someone turned the hostel aircon up too high. 

You will also need clothing that covers your legs and shoulders for visiting temples, but a lot of these items you will be able to buy cheaply out there so don’t worry too much! Do give our Do’s and Don’ts of Thailand article a browse to learn a bit more about temple etiquette.

I would also recommend bringing double the underwear and socks you think you need as these are things I always lost and couldn’t find anywhere to buy more of.

Shoes-wise, Birkenstocks or Crocs seem to be the current backpacking staple for visitors to Southeast Asia. I also took a pair of trainers with me and wore them way more than I thought I would! Walking shoes aren’t necessary at all and you will hate lugging them around.  

Other stuff

Make sure you buy a sarong pretty early on in your trip! These make great cover-ups, beach towels, and picnic blankets and work as a good curtain in hostels if you want extra privacy. You can find these so cheap at every market! 

I have a few guides on stuff you might need for travelling here: 

• Top Gadgets and Electronics you NEED for Travel !
• 15 Backpacking Must Haves!
• 21 MUST-HAVE apps for Travelling

But specifically for Thailand, I would say bring: 

• Sunscreen as a lot of the ones you can buy in Southeast Asia has skin lightening in them. 
• Any skincare or makeup you can’t live without 
• Bug spray with DEET 
• A tote bag for day-to-day use 
• Spare bankcards 
• Padlocks  
• Microfibre towel
• A good battery pack and an adaptor with a few USB slots 

What not to pack

• Any nice clothing 
• Expensive jewlery 
• Hiking gear 
• A wheelie suitcase 
• Too many clothes

How to get around Thailand

We have a whole guide for How to Get Around Thailand so I won’t go too much into it! We booked all of our travel around the country through 12Go Asia or through tourist centres and hostels. Getting around Thailand is SO easy so don’t let this bit stress you out at all. 

As we’ve highlighted in the majority of our posts on South East Asia, we relied heavily on 12 Go Asia and it didn’t let us don’t. It’s simple, and easy to use and provides everything you need to know. From highlighting your drop-off and pick-up locations to the cost and duration, there really is no better transport booking website you can rely on for traveling Thailand.

Renting Motorcycles 

If you want to travel Thailand in the most authentic way possible, hiring a motorbike is your best bet. This gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want and practically gets you anywhere you want to go. If you’re renting in Thailand for the first time, do be weary as the roads can get quite hectic and never let anyone hold your passport.

If you’re not confident about driving a motorbike or will only need transport for longer journeys, taxis are the perfect way to get about.

Thai taxi’s are often air-conditioned and provide a comfortable and safe way of getting from A to B. There is also not a shortage of taxis in Thailand, and they come in a variety of forms.

There are taxis you can book, hail down, official companies and unofficial companies. You’ll obviously find them in abundance in major cities so book or flag one down and if appropriate, make sure to haggle.

How much does backpacking Thailand for a month cost? 

It sounds cliche but you really can make backpacking Thailand as cheap as you want. To do this, make sure to eat at street markets or local cuisine. Staying in shared dormitories in hostels and renting a motorbike to get between places are other great ways of keeping your costs low.

Overall, we spent just over $1,250 per person (£1,000 GBP or 43,320bht) for one month in Thailand. That being said, we weren’t keeping our expenditure to a minimum but we were seeing all the beautiful things Thailand had to offer.

Where to start? 

Realistically you are going to start in Bangkok (probably after a long flight !) but whether you choose to go north or south first will be up to you! We personally chose to go up to northern Thailand first but we did spend two months in Thailand.

Our biggest bit of advice would be to plan your trip around going to the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan. This is one of the Best Nightlife Destinations in Thailand and a once-in-a-lifetime event to attend. Spending one month in Thailand will allow you to attend the full moon party but the date changes every month so make sure to keep up to date. Ideally, the party will be at the end or start of your trip which will allow you to decide whether to go north or south first.

Another thing to consider is the burning season which happens every year in Northern Thailand. We actually went up to Chiang Mai and Pai during the burning season and it didn’t impact us. However, the time does vary from year to year. You can ask locals before you go or look on Facebook groups to find out when you need to avoid the north. 

Starting point: Bangkok

Forget what some people say about avoiding Bangkok because we totally loved it! It’s the perfect kick-off point for your Thailand adventure because you’ll meet tons of fellow travellers just starting their trips too. 

Bangkok, as a city, is a wild mix of traditional and modern culture that will keep you on your toes. And guess what? Getting around is a piece of cake thanks to the Skytrain and taxis! You’ll have a blast exploring the vibrant markets, especially the Weekend Market that’s bursting with goodies. 

You could even take an adventure down the water taxi Chao Praya River which passes through the city. Simply hop on and off at various spots throughout the city and make sure you get on the right one. There are boats with green, orange and yellow flags and each cost 13 baht and you must pay on the boat.

For a day trip from Bangkok, why not take this tour to the Prasat Muang Sing Historical Park which showcases two remaining Khmer temples built in the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century? Lunch is included as is a tour guide throughout your trip.

Close by is the Erawan National Park , which is extremely popular thanks to its scenic hiking trails and mesmerising waterfalls, and the Death Railway Museum if you’re looking to explore the history of the Thaialnd-Burma railway.

Oh, and if you’re a backpacker looking for an unforgettable time, Khaosan Road is your paradise. It’s packed with fellow backpackers and has a buzzing atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Bangkok is where the fun begins, trust us!

How long to stay in Bangkok

Where to stay in bangkok.

Hostel –  Bed Station Hostel Khao San

Hostel –  Mad Monkey Bangkok

Hotel –  OYO 482 Pannee Lodge Khaosan

Top things to do in Bangkok

• Floating Market  
• Chachtun Weekend Market  
• Siam Paragon and Centralworld Shopping malls 
• Ride the BTS Skytrain
• Temples : Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Stop 2: Chiang Mai 

Chiang Mai is a whole different vibe compared to the south of Thailand. It’s like stepping into a whole new world! Plus, it’s the perfect base for awesome day trips. You can spend a day at a waterpark, visit elephant sanctuaries (they’re amazing!), and even take cooking classes to tickle your taste buds. 

We also took a day tour of Chiang Rai to visit the stunning temples. If you have a bit longer than a month in Thailand, Chiang Rai is worth a longer stay but if you are short on time, it’s an easy day trip from Chiang Mai, despite the early start. 

The city itself is pretty cool to explore on foot, just be prepared for the scorching hot weather. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure, right? And when the sun sets, get ready for some epic parties, especially at Zoe in Yellow. Trust me, the party scene there is off the hook! Oh, and the hostels are top-notch too, so you’ll have a comfy spot to crash after all the fun. 

How long to stay in Chiang Mai 

Four days with one full day spent visiting Chiang Rai.

How to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok

There are two main ways in which you can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, plane and train.

A plane ride takes just over an hour, costs $26 (900 baht) per person and can be taken from either Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi or Don Muang airports. This option is great if you’re short on time and super easy.

However, if you want to experience some culture or are backpacking on a budget, getting the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong train station is a great option. You have the option of booking second-class sleepers ($37), second-class ($20) and third-class seats ($10). We’d highly recommend either the first-class options or second-class sleepers as these are the only options you’ll get any sleep on. Third class have rigid metal seats that provide no comfort at all so for the additional money, you’ll be extremely thankful!

If you do choose the latter, make sure to always bring some dinner with you and an endless supply of snacks to last you the 10 hours. This is because, since Covid, they’ve stopped serving food on the trains. You’ll likely get to Chiang Mai early the next day so haggle for a taxi already waiting or call yourself a Grab to your next accommodation.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

Hostel –  Stamps Backpackers

Hostel –  24 Poshtel Chiangmai

Hotel –  DUM Hotel

Top things to do in Chiang Mai 

• Elephant Nature Park
• Cooking class
• Grand Canyon Water Park 
• Trip to Chiang Rai 
• Night markets 
• Temples: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh,

Stop 3: Pai 

Pai was genuinely one of our favourite spots in the whole of Thailand, so don’t skip it out! 

The best way to explore this awesome place is on a moped, so if you are choosing not to rent a bike it’s slightly more difficult to explore as you’ll have to rely on tours. 

What you definitely cannot do however is miss out on Tipsy Tubing in Pai ! It was by far our most enjoyable activity and really is an experience like no other! It’s like a rite of passage for backpackers, and it’s an absolute blast! 

The whole area has this incredible laid-back vibe that just puts you at ease. It’s way more authentic than some of the other touristy spots in Thailand, and that’s what makes it so special. 

Make sure to check out the mind-blowing Pai Canyon, or the street food market along Pai’s famous Walking Street. We highly recommend taking a tour of Pai where you can see the White Buddha (Chedi Phra That Mae), Santichon Village, another beautiful viewpoint and Pam Bok Waterfall. You’ll also find some of the best Thai food in the country here including Khao Soi which is mainly found in Nothern Thailand.

We actually took a full-day tour of Pai during our visit and would highly recommend it if you don’t want to rent a bike to explore yourself.

There are tons of hostels to choose from, so you’ll have no problem finding a nice one to base for your stay. 

How long to stay in Pai 

How to get to pai from chiang rai.

Pai is also incredibly easy to get to and again there are two main ways there, by minibus or by motorbike.

If you choose the minibus method then it’s really easy. Simply book your ticket on 12Go Asia, and take a Grab or Uber to the Chiang Mai bus terminal located just outside of the city where your bus will depart from. The bus costs roughly $6 (210 baht) per person and takes approximately four hours. This is a great way of getting to Pai with big luggage as they can strap it to the roof. Do bear in mind that the roads are incredibly windy so take some travel sickness pills if you need be.

As we’ve highlighted, we found Pai was best explored on a motorbike as it allows you to explore everything Pai has to offer without having to rely on a tour or other people to do so. Whilst there are places to rent a scooter in Pai, you can get 2-4-1 by renting a bike in Chiang Rai for 200 baht per day and using this to explore Pai. Even though this may be the optimal method, do factor in that you will have to transport your luggage on your back as well or pay one of the minibuses to take your luggage for you.

Where to stay in Pai

Hostel –  Pai Circus

Hostel –  UP2U Guesthouse

Hotel –  Lilu Pai

Top things to do in Pai

• Tipsy tubing 
• Pai Canyon 
• Santichon Village 
• Bamboo bridge walk
• Walking street 
• Street food

Stop 4: Phuket 

Alright, let’s talk about Phuket. To be honest, it’s a bit of a sleazy place! But if you’re all about the nightlife in Thailand , it’s the spot to be. Do be warned though, it can be pretty expensive, so it might not fit into your backpacker budget. 

It’s a good base for some cool day trips such as James Bond Island and it is kind of like the gateway to exploring the South of Thailand from the North. 

The main attraction has to be Bangla Road. This strip of bars and clubs is one of the most famous in the world and bustling with people and live music. Do be warned that the prices are on the expensive side but it’s still well worth visiting.

Other main attractions include Simon’s Cabaret Show , which was a great spectacle, the Big Buddha, Wat Chaithararam and an endless array of beaches! We ended up seeing a lot of the island’s sites on our tour of Phuket which we highly recommend!

Now, when it comes to accommodations the hostels are pretty pricey and it may be cheaper to get a hotel, depending on who you’re travelling with.

If you want to spend a few days in Phuket without the slimy men and expensive drinks, the east side of the island, away from Patong, is a lot more chilled. It also has a harbour where you can visit other islands and truly relax for a couple of days. 

How long to stay in Phuket 

3 days 

How to get to Phuket from Chiang Mai

Once you’ve finished in Pai, you’ll need to get back to Chiang Mai, using the same way you did before, in order to get to Phuket. There is really only one way to travel between the two and that’s by plane. This takes roughly two hours and costs $63.50 (2,208 baht) per person and you’re able to go direct from Chiang Mai International Airport to Phuket’s International Airport. There is an option to take the bus but this takes over 24 hours and doesn’t seem that practical.

Where to stay in Phuket

Hostel –  Bearpacker Patong

Hostel –  Lub d Phuket

Hotel –  Freedom Hotel

Top things to do in Phuket

• Bangla Road 
• Beach 
• Upside-down house
• Khao Rang viewpoint

Stop 5: Koh Phi Phi

Your next stop is Koh Phi Phi, we enjoyed it so much that we extended our stay here twice! The pool and beach parties are absolutely awesome but you’ll have the time of your life no matter what do you, trust us!

If you’re looking for a mix of the backpacker and island vibe then this is the place for you. There are street stalls in the centre with l oads of different restaurants in Phi Phi to eat at that are truly delicious.

Similarly, there are beaches all around the island that you can relax and snorkel at. You can get there by foot or hop on a boat and explore all the beautiful spots around the island. Snorkelling here is a dream too, the underwater world is mind-blowing. 

There are so many things to do in Koh Phi Phi and the best part? You can explore the whole island on foot! Don’t forget to check out all three of Phi Phi’s stunning viewpoints, they’re incredible spots! Koh Phi Phi is pure paradise, you’re gonna love it.

How long to stay in Phi Phi 

How to get to koh phi phi from phuket .

Again, there is only really one way to get to the Phi Phi islands and that’s by ferry. Get yourself a taxi or Grab to Rassada Pier Terminal on the southeast corner of the island where you can hop on a direct ferry to Ao Tan Sai Pier in Phi Phi. As ever, we’d highly recommend booking through 12Go Asia as you have all the tickets and information on your own making the process incredibly easy and stress-free. The ferry tickets cost $12.50 (435bht) and it takes just two hours, pier to pier.

Where to stay in Phi Phi

Hostel –  Blanco Beach Bar

Hostel –  Ibiza House Pool Party

Hotel –  Phi Phi Indigo Hotel

Top things to do in Phi Phi

• Beach parties 
• Fire dancing 
• Viewpoints 1,2 & 3 (inc hikes)
• Snorkelling 
• Boat trips 

Stop 6: Railay

Next is Railay or Railay Beach, this little gem nestled between Krabi and Ao Nang. It’s got these chilled Caribbean vibes that are pretty cool and different from the rest of Thailand. Whilst admittedly it wasn’t our absolute favourite spot, it’s still incredibly popular amongst backpackers. 

Even though the hotel we stayed at was enjoyable, if you stay there then be ready for a serious workout as there are a ton of steps. If we were to stay here again we’d definitely check out some other accommodations like Blanco Hideout which has a great swimming pool!

When you do visit, one thing you absolutely have to take part in is rock climbing . Railay is famous for it and it’s such a fun-filled activity you’ll want to keep going up again and again. Exploring the nearby caving is another unique activity to do in Railay. There’s also a tradition you cannot miss. At sunset every evening, everyone gathers on the beach to watch the magical sunset and it’s definitely something you must take part in.

If you do have time to spare, why not consider the beautiful islands of Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe? These islands are known for their fantastic scuba diving opportunities, exotic marine life and serenity.

Railay may not have been our top pick, but it’s got its own unique charm.

How long to stay in Railay 

2 days 

How to get to Railay from Koh Phi Phi

Another really simple journey as it’s just a 40-minute ferry ride between the two locations. This can sometimes include a transfer of boats at Krabi but the connections are all guaranteed by 12Go Asia. You’ll be dropped off at the Floating Pier in East Railay where it’ll likely be. short walk to your accommodation and this all costs just $25 (870bht).

Where to stay in Railey

Hostel –  Blanco Hideout Railay

Hostel –  Tinidee Hideaway

Hotel – Railay Hilltop

Top things to do in Railay

• Rockclimbing 
• Happy shakes 
• Sunset 
• Caving 
• Paddleboarding 

Stop 7: Khao Sok

Hidden amidst the lush jungles of southern Thailand lies a paradise waiting to be explored: Koh Sok National Park. Nestled in Surat Thani province, this untouched gem is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. 

As you venture into the park’s depths, prepare to be mesmerized by its biodiversity. Explore the intricate network of rivers and streams, where canoeing or kayaking unveils hidden caves and limestone formations. Embark on thrilling treks through dense forests, unveiling cascading waterfalls and discovering rare flora and fauna along the way.

For an unparalleled experience, spend a night in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by serene waters and towering cliffs. Wake up to the sounds of nature and embark on a sunrise hike to witness the misty peaks casting a mystical aura over the landscape.

How long to stay in Khao Sok 

1 day 

Where to stay in Khao Sok

Cheapest option –  Khao Sok Hostel

Hostel –  Chillax Khaosok Hostel

Hotel – 500 Rai Floating Resort

Top things to do in Khao Sok

• Explore the national park 

How to get to Khao Sok from Railay

Simply book through 12Go Asia where, for just $13.70 (465bht), you can take a four-and-a-half hour journey North to the beautiful Khao Sok National Park. This trip includes both a van and taxi journey with all transfers covered in your ticket, providing you with stress-free travel!

Stop 8: Koh Samui

Next is a trip to Koh Samui! Thailand’s second-largest island is a pretty touristy place and definitely more of a vacation destination than a backpacker’s paradise. 

But don’t worry, there are still some great hostels to choose from. Personally, we loved staying at Lub D as it felt like luxury as it had two pools, loungers and even its own outdoor bar!

The best bit about Koh Samui is that it has a bit of everything. There was even a huge shopping complex, Central Samui, which had its own indoor market and outdoor food market with some delicious produce. But the highlight was definitely the top-of-the-range cinema which really enjoyable.

However, it still has tons of breathtaking beaches and you can spend days exploring all the beautiful spots around the island. By far the best way to view the island however is to take a tour of Koh Samui so you can take in all of the sights!

We ended up being quite fortunate as we were here during Songkran which was a crazy experience and well worth taking part in. The area we stayed in had a great nightlife but the whole island is known for its beach parties and beach bars with fire dancing every single night!

If you’re looking for a fun day out, why not take a boat trip to the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park ?! This is not quite a UNESCO World Heritage site but it’s still an ASEAN Heritage site ensuring its natural beauty is protected!

Top Tip: If hostels in Koh Phangan are fully booked for the Full Moon Party, Koh Samui is a great alternative accommodation location.

How long to stay in Koh Samui 

3 days in Koh Samui is the perfect amount of time to spend on the island!

How to get to Koh Samui from Koh Sok 

This journey is deceptively long as it takes a staggering seven-and-a-half hours so make sure to download a Netflix series and stock up on some snacks! This trip involves a minivan and ferry ride and starts near to Wat Tham Phanthurat in Khao Sok’s village. As it involves a transfer, 12Go Asia have you covered so you won’t have any stress securing a ferry ticket! Despite the distance, this trip only costs $17.50 (610bht) so get booking!

Where to stay in Koh Samui

Hostel –  Lub d Koh Samui

Hostel –  The Rock @ Koh Samui

Hotel – Lotus Friendly Hotel

Top things to do in Koh Samui

• Central Samui food market
• Fisherman’s village 
• Beach clubs
• Major Central Samui cinema

Stop 9: Koh Phangan

​​Koh Phangan is home to the legendary Full Moon Party, which is what Thailand is so famous for amongst backpackers, and trust me, it’s a party you don’t wanna miss!

However, after the parties, a lot of people leave, and they’re missing out! Because away from Haad Rin, there’s so much more to explore. You’ll find some amazing food markets where you can munch on delicious treats. The locals are so friendly, welcoming and great people to talk to.

Koh Phangan has much more to offer than just the parties. We’d highly recommend renting a motorbike and spending a day exploring the island as there are some real hidden gems!

Top Tip: If you’re planning to visit for the full moon party, make sure to book accommodation as far in advance as you can. This is because everywhere fills up fast and becomes way more expensive. We booked the Yogurt House Hotel roughly one month in advance and it was practically on the beach with easy access.

How long to stay in Koh Phangan 

How to get to koh phangan from koh samui.

Due to the close proximity of the two islands, this is another journey that’s super easy. There are multiple piers where you can get a ferry from on Koh Samui, so pick whichever one suits you. However, when arriving in Koh Phangan you’ll need to make sure you arrive on Haad Rin Pier if you’re staying near to the Full Moon Party. Tickets can be bought at your respect piers ticket office for as little as $6.20 (215bht) and the journey takes between half an hour and one hour depending and where you’re going and what ferry you choose.

Where to stay in Koh Phangan

Hostel –  Bodega Beach Party Koh Phangan

Hostel –  Echo Beach Hostel

Hotel – Yoghurt House

Top things to do in Koh Phangan

• Full Moon Party 
• Phangan Food Court
• Half Moon parties
• Beach clean-ups

Stop 10: Koh Tao 

Lastly, we have Koh Tao which is hands down our favourite spot in all of Thailand! We loved it so much that we couldn’t resist extending our stay here. 

Koh Tao has so much to offer. From an array of amazing places to eat to watching a Muay Thai fight to hiking up to John Suwan’s viewpoint, there really is tons to do on this tiny island.

One of the highlights is undoubtedly the beaches. Koh Tao’s beaches are by far the best we’ve ever witnessed. All are white sandy beaches littered with deck chairs and an endless supply of bars ready to serve you a refreshing beer or delightful cocktail. To top it off, they’re great for snorkelling and you don’t need to good far to find fish or turtles!

However, by far the best thing to do in Koh Tao is to go Scuba Diving and there are multiple reasons why. Firstly, it’s one of the most affordable places in the world to get your PADI Open Water Scuba Diving Certificate. Once you’ve passed, you can use this to Scuba Dive anywhere in the world for infinitely cheaper. What makes things even better is that the underwater world in Koh Tao is utterly beautiful and awash with marine life. It’s a real bucket list activity that you HAVE to tick off!!

Koh Tao also has a famous beer crawl that you must join if that’s your thing. You get another chance to meet loads of people and enjoy some of Koh Tao’s best nightlife spots.

Ultimately, Koh Tao is a slice of heaven, you’ll never want to leave!

How long to stay in Koh Tao 

How to get to koh tao from koh phangan.

All of the ferries from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao leave from Thongsala Pier on the west coast of the island. If you’re travelling to this part of the island then make sure to come a little earlier to grab some food as there are some amazing places to eat. Similarly, you can buy a ticket to Koh Tao at the ticket office for as little as $16 (555bht) per person for the one-hour journey. In Koh Tao, you’ll arrive at the main Mae Haad pier where you can walk or grab a lift to your accommodation. Be wary, it’s deceptively hilly!

Where to stay in Koh Tao

Hostel –  Summer Hostel Koh Tao

Hostel –  Assava Dive Resort

Hotel – Koh Tao Regal Resort

Top things to do in Koh Tao

• Snorkeling 
• Scuba diving 
• Eat at amazing restaurants  
• Beach bars and parties 
• Viewpoints 
• Sunsets! 

Where to finish your one month in Thailand and where to go next! 

Hopefully, you’ll enjoy Thailand just as much as we did, and you won’t want to leave! But don’t be disheartened as there are loads of countries in the region that you should visit.

You’ll first need to get yourself to Bangkok from Koh Tao which trip from Mae Head Pier via a ferry and a bus to Khao San Lomprayak in Bangkok. This journey can take 10 hours and cost $43.50 (1,513bht) if you’re going via Surat Thani but will be significantly less for both via Chumphon.

We’re biased but our recommendation would definitely be Cambodia. We ended up spending One Month in Cambodia but you could easily spend just 2 Weeks in Cambodia if you’re short on time/money.

Getting to Cambodia is incredibly easy as it’s just a simple flight from Bangkok to the capital Phnom Penh . You can also travel over the border via the Krong Poi Pet, Khlong Yai or Thmor Dai border points but by plane is definitely the safest method.

If Cambodia isn’t your choice then there’s always Vietnam and Laos nearby or Japan, Philippines and Indonesia further afield.

One Month in Thailand FAQs

We spend just over $1,250 (43,320 baht or £1,000 GBP) per person during our one-month visit. However, you can make travelling as cheap as you want which is possible by doing multiple things.

Keeping within budget is easily done in Thailand as you can eat at local restaurants or at the street markets. Additionally, staying in hostel-shared dorms and renting a motorbike for your transport will allow you to keep costs down.

Between November and March is the best time to visit Thailand. This is when the weather is dry but cool and you’re highly unlikely to be impacted by rain. However, do bear in mind that this is the high tourist season when the prices of hotels and transport are increased.

We met loads of solo travelers during our trip and they all said they felt safe whilst traveling Thailand. That being said, do make sure to take extra precautions. Always let your hostel, friends and family know where you’re going and when. Also, make sure to keep your belongings locked away and don’t walk back on your own after a night out.

Yes, there are. When visiting temples, you should always cover up and take off your shoes as they’re extremely holy and sacred places. Also, be respectful of Buddhist statues and never climb them whilst you shouldn’t touch an individual’s head as this is considered sacred and the cleanest part of the body.

As we’ve highlighted, the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan and Scuba Diving in Koh Tao are essentials for any visit to Thailand!

There you have it, everything you need to know about spending One Month in Thailand. Outlining the best Thailand backpacking route with all the best places to go, how long you should spend there and where to stay. If you couldn’t tell, we absolutely loved visiting Thailand and were frustrated we couldn’t stay longer. We found that Thailand had a range of atmospheres and climates that made every day just as enjoyable as the last. From the beautiful sandy beaches in the southern islands to the culture-rich towns and villages in the north, Thailand had everything and more!

Let us know your thoughts on visiting Thailand or why it’s at the top of your bucket list in the comments below.

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10 comments.

I love that this itinerary is not rushed..by taking your time to really explore, you get a true sense of the culture..thanks for the inspiration

Thanks so much for your kind comment Jennifer! So pleased you enjoyed our guide.

I already had Thailand on my bucket list but you just made it move higher to the top! Khoa Sok looks like an absolute dream of a place!

Couldn’t agree more Ashton, Khao Sok is beautiful! You won’t regret going at all!

Woooowza! A month in Thailand would be incredible! It looks like you really packed in the adventures/cooking/culture and fun in that month! Places like Railay honestly look like a complete dream!

We couldn’t agree more Josy! Yes we really did, the cooking class in Chiang Mai was definitely a highlight! We absolutely loved Railay and Phi Phi and so wish we could go back!

Wow, what a comprehensive resource for backpacking in Thailand. I know I’ll be referring to it when I plan to go back.

Thanks for your kind comment Kim! So pleased we’ve been able to help.

This is one amazing overview! And it has been years since I visited Thailand, AND I never really got to explore Bangkos – that has got to change 🙂 Great article!

Thanks so much Hege!You should definitely go back, its so much fun and there’s SO much going on in Bangkok!

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Backpacking Thailand On A Budget: What Travelers Should Know

Find out everything you need to know for backpacking Thailand on a budget . Learn about the best travel tips, money, important information, top places to see, and more in this guide on the ultimate backpacking destination, Thailand!

Thailand is a must-visit destination and a highlight for many people traveling Southeast Asia. From palm tree-covered beaches, lush jungles, and incredible cities, backpacking Thailand will have you in awe of all the varied landscapes.

It is also a popular destination with young travelers due to being located on the famous banana pancake trail. You’ll find plenty of like-minded people backpacking Thailand on a budget.

Think $3.00 Pad Thais, $5.00 massages, and $1.00 beers. For any budget traveler, this is absolute paradise. Also, Any mistakes you make won’t cost you too much money and any scams won’t financially ruin your trip (speaking from experience).

There is an assortment of places you will want to visit, which I will get into later. Though you’ll find most backpackers generally spend around 1 month in Thailand. This gives you enough time to explore the country relatively in-depth and check out all the top spots. It is a big place so you’ll need to either splash out on a couple of flights or take a few overnight trains.

Though, before we get into all the details of the best places to see in Thailand, let’s start with the basics. I will cover for you everything you will never need to know about backpacking Thailand. From money matters, visas, when to go, accommodation, getting around and so much more before finally getting into where exactly you should go and do during your adventure traveling Thailand on a budget.

Backpacking Thailand On A Budget: All You Need To Know

What is the currency in thailand, travel budget for backpacking thailand, entry requirements for backpacking thailand, best time to travel thailand, sleeping in thailand on a budget, getting around thailand on a budget, food & drink in thailand, internet access in thailand, buying a sim card in thailand.

• Best Places To Visit While Backpacking Thailand On A Budget

The local currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht. Check online exchange rates.

I actually kept track of all my costs to travel Thailand on my first trip. This includes transportation, food, accommodation, activities, and even some souvenir shopping. I tracked all my expenses to make sure I kept on budget and it has also allowed me to hold onto that information to share with you.

In total, I ended up spending $23.60 per day. This was done by staying in the cheapest rooms, taking overnight buses, and only doing a few tours. I had actually budgeted to spend $25.00 per day, so came in just slightly below this.

The largest portion of my budget actually went towards food. This is because accommodation is so cheap, spending $13.00 or so each day on food eventually adds up. I could’ve kept this cost lower by eating street food. Though I am a bit of a fussy vegetarian so I preferred to eat at locally run restaurants where it would cost me $4.00 or so for a meal and a drink.

Your budget will go a lot further than the North compared to the South. The most expensive place I visited was Koh Phi Phi and looking back I definitely should’ve spent less time there. Especially considering I didn’t actually like it there.

Depending on your passport country of origin, you may not need a visa to enter Thailand. There is a list of countries that can enter visa-free for a period of 30 days. Some of these countries include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and The United States.

Though you will be required to show proof of departure when arriving at the airport. This is because many people travel to Thailand for work and end up overstaying. Alternatively, in the past, it has been a popular place to do visa runs to neighboring countries and then your 30 days stay restarts. Though in recent years these rules have changed where you can only stay 90 days in any 6 month period.

If you do not have proof of onward travel many travelers use such services as Onward Ticket . The company books a legitimate ticket in your name and cancels it after a certain period. You just need to pay a small service charge. This provides you with an actual ticket for proof of onward travel. I have used them before, but remember you still need to leave the country within 30 days of arriving. Though this is the perfect amount of time for my 3 week Thailand itinerary !

The high season in Thailand is between November and March when the weather is at its best throughout the country. This is also known as the dry season, with minimal rain and clear days. During this period, there is an influx of tourists as people come to visit and as a result, accommodation prices increase. Just be aware that the start of the year is also the burning season which brings poor air quality in certain areas of Thailand, so make sure to research Northern Areas such as when to go to Chiang Mai before booking.

I have traveled to Thailand during the months of February, April, and May. February falls in the high season, though April and May fall in the shoulder season. During this time the sunny days had a short period of thundering storms with pouring rain. Though these often occurred in the late afternoons or evenings. Most of the time we had already settled in for the night.

The good thing about Thailand is that when the weather is bad on one side of the country, for example, Koh Lanta, you can always travel to the other side and it will be better, e.g. Koh Phangan.

The North of the country is best to visit between November and May. Whilst June to October is the monsoon season up there and you will want to avoid traveling there then.

The East Coast Islands are best avoided from September through to December as this is when they get hit with heavy rainfall. Though the rest of the year they are perfectly fine to visit. Alternatively, the West Coast Islands should be avoided from April and October. Also, think twice before taking ferries in Thailand during the wet season as there have been numerous incidents throughout the years.

You can find an assortment of accommodation in Thailand. Though be aware that the further South you travel the more expensive the options are. Though cities themselves generally provide a good mix of hostels, guesthouses, and hotels for all budgets. No matter where you are in the country and what your budget is, it is very likely you will be able to find a suitable option.

Long gone are the days backpacking Thailand staying in cute little bamboo huts, well nearly. These used to cover the islands, but nowadays they are a lot harder to come by. Nevertheless, if you look hard enough to should be able to find a couple on each island. Though whether they will be affordable or a pricey Instagram hotspot is another question.

In Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket you will be able to find an assortment of relatively affordable luxury hotels. These three towns are quite well trodden on the backpacking Thailand scene and as such cater for all types of travelers. Almost all towns in Thailand now offer at least one hostel for those travelers on a budget. The only place I haven’t found one is in Chiang Khong , though instead, I booked a private room in a resort for $3.50.

Overall, if you are a dorm bed person I would budget about $8.00 per day to spend on accommodation. If you are like me and enjoy simple guesthouses, and also have someone else to split private room costs with, I would budget $12.00 per day just to be safe.

In my opinion, Thailand is super easy to travel around on a budget. Buses and minivans cater to tourists and are able to take you around the country with ease.

Planes: If you are on a budget then you probably won’t be taking any flights within Thailand. Though if you can afford to domestic flights connects Bangkok with the major hotspots in the country. There are quite a few airlines operating domestically in Thailand which creates competition to keep prices relatively low. There are a couple of long trips which you may consider a flight, for example, Bangkok to Chiang Mai .

Mini Van: Minivans are a popular way to travel when backpacking Thailand. They will pick you up from your guesthouse or hostels and drop you off at the bus station in the city you are traveling to. The prices are only a little bit more when compared to a bus. Though the journey will be a lot faster. The one downside is they will full up the minivans to the brims, full seats plus bags for each traveler does not make for a comfortable journey.

Bus: A slightly cheaper option than a minivan, the bus is a good choice for those who aren’t in a rush and are traveling Thailand on a budget. From experience, I generally find buses in Thailand of pretty decent quality. Most have comfortable seats and working air conditioning. They will also stop every few hours for a bathroom break. Though this isn’t the most convenient when you’re on an overnight trip and just want to sleep.

Train : Taking a train is a great way to travel around Thailand. In terms of pricing, it is generally somewhere in between a bus ticket and a flight. Though the plus side of the train is it makes for a super comfortable journey. This is especially true on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai where you get an actual bed to sleep in compared with a seat. The train can take you as far north as Chiang Mai and as far south as Hat Yai.

Boat: If you are wanting to head to the islands in Thailand, which you likely are then you will need to take some sort of boat. I personally like taking Lomprayah to the islands on the east coast such as Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui. They have a great reputation and they are always on time. Though on the west side of Thailand I have only booked random ferries through my guesthouses so don’t particularly have a preference. Just be aware that ferries in Thailand can be quite pricey, which you can check out in my Thailand Travel Budget post.

Motorbike: A less popular, but still doable option is to motorbike around Thailand. As you will likely be traveling North to South or vice versa then renting will not be an option. This means you will need to purchase one. It may not be as popular as doing it in Vietnam , though I can tell you it is still possible and people definitely give it a go.

In Thailand, you can easily find a wide assortment of food. This is even more true in tourist hot spots such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai , and Phuket. From vegan, Italian, Indian and Vietnamese. There is a variety of cuisines here for foodies.

Though wherever you find yourself in the country good food will not be far behind. I am a fussy eater and a vegetarian, luckily I had no issues whatsoever finding something suitable in Thailand. My personal go-to options were small locally run restaurants offering various stir fry tofu dishes.

In terms of local dishes, Thailand is a foodie paradise. From Pad Thai, Red Thai Curry, Khao Soi and so many more. You can easily find yourself exploring Thailand with your mouth.

At local eateries, you can plan to spend between $2.50-$3.50 per meal. Though, eating out at Western-style upscale restaurants you can easily double this amount.

Internet access is pretty decent in Thailand. As a result, it is a pretty popular place with digital nomads as they can easily work remotely. We never really had any issues with an internet connection, even when we were staying on islands. The price of the internet should be included in your accommodation as well.

The easiest way to buy a sim card in Thailand is definitely at the airport when you arrive. The people at these booths are trained to help foreigners and know what plan will be best for you.

This is exactly what I have done multiple times in the past, generally getting a plan with unlimited data for a certain period e.g. 2 weeks or 1 month. The only downside of doing it like this is that it is a lot more pricey than if you were to simply go buy a sim card from 7/11 and set it up for yourself. You are basically just paying for the convenience.

I found the 4G reception pretty good in Thailand, giving me plenty of use. The only times I struggled were on the overnight train journey to Chiang Mai where we obviously went through some patchy areas. It also works for a few hours on the slow boat to Luang Prabang if you are doing that journey (whereas the Laos sim cards will not work).

Top Places To Visit While Backpacking Thailand On A Budget

Welcome to one of my favorite spots in Thailand, Chiang Mai. This digital nomad hub is an absolute must-visit, even if you are only in Chiang Mai for 3 days . From elephant sanctuaries , cooking classes , night markets , and more! This is such an incredible city and is one I always recommend to travelers in Thailand. It is also a foodie hot spot with an abundance of affordable and delicious meals around every corner.

This ex capital of Thailand has a super interesting past and is actually a UNESCO Heritage Site. Ayutthaya is well worth a visit whether you wish to stay overnight or make it a day trip from Bangkok . Hire a bicycle or go on a tour and explore the numerous temples which call this place home.

Welcome to the capital of Thailand, Bangkok. It is likely you will either start or finish your backpacking Thailand journey in this city thanks to its great transport links to other countries. Though it is well worth spending at least 48 hours in Bangkok to experience the best of what it has to offer. Check out the impressive Grand Palace and some of the incredible nearby temples. Book a stay in a hostel on Khao San Road and join along in one of the best party places!

Koh Tao is also known as a divers paradise as this is one of the cheapest places to get PADI certified. Apart from that, there are some awesome nearby islands, beautiful beaches, and picturesque viewpoints. I even did a snorkeling tour in Koh Tao , though I had mixed feelings about it.

Koh Phangan

This place is so much more than the full moon party! Koh Phangan has some of the best beaches in Thailand. If you can definitely hire a motorbike and explore the island at your own pace. From waterfalls, viewpoints, and white sandy beaches, it is easy to spend weeks here!

I read in so many travel blogs to go to Krabi, don’t, go to Ao Nang instead. Here you will find a couple of gorgeous beaches, some chilled-out restaurants, and an assortment of accommodation options. It’s a lot more relaxed here than nearby in Krabi town. You can also easily take a day trip to Railay Beach to check out one of the most perfect places in all of Thailand (definitely spend a night there if you can afford it).

Koh Lanta is another perfect chilled-out place. I could honestly stay an extended period there if I hadn’t already planned further travel. It’s the perfect place to explore by motorbike. Get lost in the many viewpoints looking out to the sea, hang out with dogs at Lanta Animal Welfare and watch the sunset turn the sky all shades of red.

Koh Phi Phi

If you are looking for a bit of a party and to let loose during your time backpacking Thailand on a budget then you can’t do better than Koh Phi Phi . Apart from a party, there are also numerous day tours to nearby beaches, islands, and caves. Hike your way up the hillside to one of the many Phi Phi viewpoints .

Now I didn’t particularly fall in love with Koh Phi Phi, though that doesn’t mean you will have the same experience. If I started my trip in Phuket where I didn’t know better, then sure I may have had a good time. Though I visited as the last destination in my trip, having come from the relaxed pace of Koh Lanta. I found Phuket dirty, grimy, and scammy. Just keep in mind that is simply my opinion and I would go back as I honestly think it has more to offer.

Work For Accommodation In Thailand

Give working for your accommodation a try. Many hostels in Thailand offer those who are staying a free place to rest your head. Though in exchange you must be willing to help with cleaning, front desk, and other general duties.

Another option is WWOOFing or Helpx.

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Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….

• TRAVEL KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO
• VISITING THE WHITE TEMPLE IN CHIANG RAI
• COST TO TRAVEL THAILAND
• PHUKET TO KOH LANTA TRANSPORT GUIDE
• KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINTS
• ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
• A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
• BACKPACKING KOH LANTA
• VEGETARIAN COOKING CLASS IN CHIANG MAI
• KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI TRANSPORT GUIDE

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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The Best Thailand Travel Itinerary for Backpackers

Planning your Thailand travel itinerary can be difficult- there’s so much to see and do, yet usually very little time.

When we arrived in Thailand for the first time, we’d done very little planning and had no idea where to go once we landed in Bangkok. The trip very much became a case of trial and error, but it was an adventure we’ll never forget.

Thanks to our mistakes, we now have a pretty good idea of what a good Thailand itinerary for backpackers looks like. This covers the capital city, the north, and the islands over a one-month period . You can, of course, shorten your time in each place to fit your own travel schedule.

We actually took two months to explore Thailand as we moved slowly through each destination. To do this, you can either extend your 30-day visa at the embassy or cross the border into another country for a week or so. We took two weeks to explore Vietnam in between. Before you set off, make sure your documents are in check using our handy passport guide.

Here’s our perfect Thailand travel itinerary!

Bangkok – 3 to 4 nights

Bangkok is the easiest place in Thailand to fly into, and a great place to start your Thai adventure. Combine the vibrant street life with gorgeous hotels at cheap prices, and you’re off to a good start. We stayed four nights in the capital city, which we could have probably shortened to three. Here’s an idea of how to spend your time:

• Day One: Arrive at Bangkok International Airport, get a Grab taxi to your hotel, settle in, and go for a wander!
• Day Two: Get the metro to Chatuchak Market (this is open at the weekend, so plan accordingly) and take a few hours to explore the hundreds of stalls. Enjoy the food, chat to the locals, and maybe even get a haircut like Adam did!!
• Day Three: Head to Wat Pho to see the famous reclining Buddha. This is also a great time to visit the Grand Palace should you wish. 
• Day Four: Hit up the huge malls in the day, then a rooftop bar at night. We’re gutted we missed out on Bangkok’s rooftop bars, but we hear the Speakeasy Rooftop Bar is a pretty good shout.

Chiang Mai – 7 nights

Seven nights in the north of Thailand is probably a little more than what you’d expect, but you’ll understand when you arrive. Take the night bus from Bangkok to get there – you can fly, but the bus is a much better experience in our opinion. Bus operators say the trip takes between 9 and 10 hours, though plan to arrive a couple of hours earlier – some Thai bus drivers really know how to put their foot down!!

We don’t recommend planning your entire visit to Chiang Mai- we wouldn’t recommend that in any Thailand itinerary for backpackers. Rule three in our backpacking tips is to allow for spontaneity. Use your time to explore and eat great food at your own pace. The city is gorgeous and well worth taking your time . We’d suggest moving hotels a couple of times to spend some time in different parts of the city. Here are a few things you may want to work into your Thailand travel itinerary while you’re in Chiang Mai:

• Visit Doi Suthep: Get a songthaew (see also: big red bus) to Doi Suthep, and take in the magic of one of the holiest places in Thailand. You can also head back down the road to get away from the tourists take a hike through the national park. You’ll find gorgeous 360-degree views and even a hidden temple of two – we filmed it all to share with you below.
• Eat EVERYTHING. We mean it: Chiang Mai is home to some of the best food we’ve ever eaten. Whether you’re looking for the best Thai curry or pages and pages of breakfast options- this city has it all. I wrote a Chiang Mai food guide for the FarFromHolmes site which you should definitely check out for our full list of recommendations.
• Go to the Sunday market: It’s busy, but you’ll love it. You can quite literally spend hours browsing the stalls, eating street food, and enjoying the entertainment on offer. The Sunday market runs between 4 pm and midnight- most of the locals start heading out around 9/10 pm. Don’t forget the mosquito spray!!

Chiang Rai – 3 nights

Chiang Rai is the lesser-known city in the north of Thailand, just a 3-4 hour bus journey from Chiang Mai. This is a perfect addition to your Thailand travel itinerary if you have the time. Chiang Rai is known by backpackers for its beautiful temples and artistic, laid-back atmosphere. Here’s an idea of how to spend your time in the city.

• Day One: Arrive in Chiang Rai, check into your hotel, enjoy some great food, and take the day to walk around and explore at your own pace.
• Day Two: Visit the White Temple. Also known as Wat Rong Khun, this temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Chiang Rai due to its elegance and unusual touches. Visit early to avoid the rush.
• Day Three: Visit the Blue Temple. Yes, there seems to be quite the colour theme going on here- as Chiang Rai is also home to the Black House if you’d like to see that, too. The Blue Temple is a vibrant attraction recently completed in 2016, and free to explore.

Phuket – 1 to 2 nights

As far as we’re concerned, Phuket is a tick-box destination on your Thailand travel itinerary. Though it may not be top of your bucket list, it’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to make your way through to the islands. Take the night bus from the north into Phucket, or fly if time’s an issue. 

Watch the video below for an idea of how to spend 24 hours in Phuket . Monkey Hill and Phuket Walking Street are both worth a visit.

Phi Phi Island – 3+ nights

The reason we haven’t included an exact night count for Phi Phi Island is that it’s very much a Marmite destination – you either love it or you hate it. Phi Phi is a very party-heavy place, so if you’re not looking to go clubbing into the early hours every night, it might not be the place for you.

We stayed on Phi Phi for a week or so. While we didn’t like the overall vibe, I loved getting up super early every day to watch the sunrise on the beach as everyone else was just about off to bed. 

Koh Lanta – 4 to 5 nights

Koh Lanta is a gorgeous, laid back island. Though you won’t find much on offer in terms of activities, it’s a great place to spend a few days chilling on the beach – especially if you’ve just come from the hustle and bustle of Phi Phi. 

Make sure to enjoy the beautiful cafes and restaurants on the beach during your visit. You can also learn to dive in Koh Lanta too, should you wish.

Krabi – 4 to 5 nights

Jump on a bus to head from Koh Lanta to Krabi. Most bus services will take you the full way using the Krabi car ferry, so you won’t need to transfer to go across the waters. We recommend spending a couple of nights in Railay Beach to enjoy day trips, snorkelling, and great food, then going into Krabi Town. We strongly recommend staying at Well Timed Hotel – the staff members were all so lovely and happy to help us arrange any day trips or transport we wanted to take.

During our time in Krabi, we paid for an island-hopping day trip with Barracuda Tours. This set us back around £35, which we probably could have bartered down a little more if we’d wanted. We took the Hong Islands tour – consisting of: 

• Snorkelling around Daeng Island
• Enjoying the beauty of Hong Island
• Boat trip around Hong Lagoon
• Lunch and swimming at Pakia Island
• Exploring Paradise Island

We’d definitely recommended taking the trip – though make sure to pay the little extra to go by speed boat! The time you’ll save getting between each island is well worth it. 

The reason our Thailand travel itinerary finishes in Krabi is that you’ll then be able to use the airport to fly to pretty much wherever you’d like to go. We travelled onto Malaysia, but you can also fly into Bangkok to then head back to your home country nice and easily. 

Too Long, Didn’t Read?

• Bangkok: 3-4 nights
• Chiang Mai: 7 nights
• Chiang Rai: 3 nights
• Phuket: 1-2 nights
• Ko Phi Phi: 3+ nights
• Koh Lanta: 4-5 nights
• Krabi: 4-5 nights

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Backpacking Thailand Travel Guide

Thailand has been an incredible place for backpacking for years. The country offers something for everyone. From buzzing night markets, beautiful tropical beaches, world-class diving, delicious Thai food , and crazy parties, Thailand attracts travelers from all over the world. This backpacking Thailand travel guide is for frugal travelers who want to get the most out their trip.

The country is one of the most popular travel destination in Southeast Asia that caters to most budgets and styles. Whether you’re a novice, adventure seeker or experienced backpacker, you can find epic (yet cheap) hostels and guesthouses that won’t cost you a fortune.

Backpacking in Thailand is much easier than you might think. For many years, tourism in Thailand has paved the way. There are plenty of areas and businesses catering solely to international travelers. In busy resort areas, a tourist infrastructure is readily accessible to visitors. After all, many people in Thailand live off tourism and the Thais have adapted in many ways to Western wishes (such as punctuality).

In most places, you will also meet other travelers every day, so you’re never completely alone. Backpacking in Thailand is suitable for people with a bit of thirst for adventure, an interest in South Asian cultures and religions as well as a desire for lazy beach holiday and a little party.

I myself have been to Thailand a number of times. Often just making a layover in Bangkok because some of the cheapest flights to Asia are into this city. Bangkok is an exciting metropolis with great contrasts between the rich and the poor. As well as a number of palaces, temples, markets and shopping opportunities.

You Might Also Like: Travel Guide to Backpacking China

If you’re into culture, religion, and history, spend some time in Bangkok before traveling to northern Thailand. This region features huge Buddha statues, countless temples, world war history and gives the chance to witness everyday Thai life.

In the South, there are the islands of Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, the Full Moon Party, and beautiful coral reefs filled with colorful fish, perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

While there are still a few gems not yet discovered this easy travel guide to Thailand will help you plan your ultimate trip to the Land of Smiles. It features local advice, insider backpacker routes, and next level travel tips so you can travel Thailand like a pro. No matter what you want to do. Whether it’s taking a trip from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai of the north, visiting the exceptionally beautiful Similan Islands, or simply attending a walking tour to explore Bangkok. This backpacking Thailand travel guide has got you covered.

Where to Go Backpacking in Thailand

If you’re looking for a place to go backpacking in Thailand you’ll spoilt for choice. The country rightfully deserves to be such a popular backpacking destination because you can see so much without any border crossings. While Thailand is home to some of the most stunning beaches and islands in Southeast Asia , Northern and Southern Thailand are very different from each other.

North is traditionally considered more relaxed and what feels like a more authentic experience of Thailand, with areas like the Ayutthaya Temples in Central Thailand. The South much more geared towards partygoers and those on holiday with the focus being on hanging out with friends and relaxing on beaches.

Grab a motorbike and explore Thailand’s countryside far away from the tourist hotspots. Eat and party your way through the pulsating Thailand’s capital. Join a traditional yoga retreat, or get your scuba diving certificate in Koh Tao!

First things first, you want to decide whether you’re heading north or south. You may, however, also want or need to consider a Bangkok based round route if you’re short on time or have a flight in and out of there.

Read Next: The Ultimate Travel Guide to El Nido, Palawan

Because backpacking Thailand can suck up a lot of time you need to know what places you really want to visit. Whatever you do, make sure you soak up the sun on the soft sandy shores. Try Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup), and get to at least one National Park.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Thailand. You can just chill out in a hammock with a Chiang beer, check out the big golden buddhas, do a Buddhist meditation retreat or party all night under the full moon on Koh Phangan. What you can do in Thailand is only limited by your imagination. To give you more insightful ideas about places to visit in Thailand, I’ve put together some backpacking itineraries below.

Travel Itineraries for Backpacking in Thailand

Planning a backpacking trip to Thailand depends entirely on where you really want to go. For example, you might have no desire to visit Phuket or Similan Islands. Your heart is longing for Bangkok or Chiang Mai or Pai. Your travel itinerary will depend on your personal preferences, travel needs, your budget and the time of year.

Keep in mind, these Thailand itineraries cover some of the country’s highlights. Of course, there are loads of destinations off the beaten path to explore too! Obviously, the more time you have the more options available. A week or two roll by quickly so don’t be surprised if you end up coming back for more!

1. Northern Thailand Backpacking Itinerary

• This Northern Thailand backpacking route starts in Bangkok. Spend 2-3 days exploring the bustling capital before heading up north.
• If you’re serious about your exploration, stop off at Sukhothai in order to catch a spectacular sunset. Thailand’s ancient capital deserves a day or two of your time.
• Arrive in Chiang Mai and spend a few days visiting the city’s best temples and immersing yourself in a country’s culture. If you can allocate more time and want to explore the countryside, why not hit the trail that will take you through stunning nature, alongside hidden waterfalls, and beneath jungle canopies.
• Head three hours west to Pai, a town with a unique hippie atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
• Head further west to Mae Hong Son, a beautiful lakeside town featuring lots of nature, outdoor activities, a laid-back vibe, and interesting local culture.
• Spend a night in the mountain town of Mae Sariang, a sleepy town where most businesses are closed in the evening.
• Head the summit of Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand.
• Head back to Chiang Mai.
• Go north three hours to Chiang Rai to visit Wat Rong Khun aka White Temple.
• Continue to Chiang Khong on the Thai-Laos border, where you can start your backpacking adventure in Laos! Or fly back to Bangkok from Chiang Mai (the flight takes around one hour).

Why You Should Explore Northern Thailand:

It’s dirt cheap. Those backpacking Thailand alone on a shoestring budget should love this region. Don’t think twice, a plate of noodles in Chiang Mai will set you back 40 Baht, while the same bowl will cost you 70 Baht in the South.

It’s an outdoor paradise. From rugged mountains, lush jungles to diverse peoples, Thailand’s north has an endless supply of stunning scenery that’s just calling out to be explored on a road trip.

Northern Thailand is still less touristy than the south and offers a real local experience for travelers.

2. Southern Thailand Backpacking Itinerary

• I suggest you start this Thailand backpacking route in Bangkok as well. Spend a couple of days in the capital before hopping on an overnight train down south to Chumphon.
• Catch a ferry to the island of Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand. This is a popular destination for scuba divers and beginners looking to start their love affair with diving. Spend a few days getting your Open Water Course (PADI or SSI), try snorkeling or just chill on the island’s beautiful beaches.
• After a day or two of scuba diving, take a one hour ferry ride to Koh Phangan where you can experience the Full Moon Party (if the timing is right) or attend a few yoga classes. Yoga Retreat is in Haad Salad is one of the best here.
• Head back to the mainland to pay majestic Khao Sok National Park a visit. Here you can enjoy Thailand’s largest protected area, go rainforest trekking, learn how to cook Thai food and spot some elephants.
• Catch a minibus to Krabi and head to the stunningly beautiful Railay Beach. Learn to rock climb, trek to a lagoon, or even visit Phra Nang Cave (for more info on that see check out these unmissable things to do in Ao Nang! ).
• Hop on a boat to Koh Lanta for some serious snorkeling and cooking classes. If you have some extra time to spare, pick an island of your choice in the Andaman Sea to indulge in your own tropical paradise.
• From here, you can head to the island of Koh Lipe and onward to Langkawi or fly back to Bangkok from nearby Krabi Airport (KBV).

Why You Should Explore Southern Thailand:

It’s a no-brainer for backpackers to visit Southern Thailand. This part of the country features the most beautiful beaches in the world, while my Southern Thailand backpacking itinerary takes in some of the best!

Are you a culture junkie? If so, you should know that the Southern provinces are predominantly Muslim. Therefore, the foods here bear closest similarities to Indian food. Here you’ll find bread, in the form of Pan-fried Muslim Bread roti, which sometimes is stuffed with a curried meat and vegetable mixture, or comes with a curry sauce to dip in. A rich and fragrant massaman curry is a delicious complement. Unlike popular Thai curries in which fresh Thai herbs and spices like fingerroot, galangal, and lemongrass are the primary ingredients, many Muslim-influenced Southern curries boast roasted fragrance of dry spices more familiar in Indian cooking. There’s also plenty of vegetarian options that can be enjoyed only in Southern Thailand.

3. Combine Both the North and South of Thailand

As I said, the north and the south are completely different from one another, which is what makes this itinerary so special.

• Start in Thailand’s capital, explore Bangkok for a few days, taking a day trip to the ancient kingdom of Ayutthaya.
• Take the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Surrounded by scenic mountains and dotted with Buddhist temples of cultural importance, Chiang Mai is the best place to see the contrast between the South and North. Because of its laid-back vibe, moderate temperatures, diverse culture and great value-for-money in food and accommodation, it was the place I enjoyed the most. Not to mention the immense array of cultural activities like Thai massage, cooking classes, and feeding and bathing elephants at the sanctuary.
• Rent a motorbike or catch a minibus three hours west to the backpacker paradise of Pai with its mind-blowing mountain scenery and buzzing nightlife.
• Complete the Mae Hong Son Loop over a few days, or simply head back to Chiang Mai.
• Hop on a plane at Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) and take yourself to Krabi where your Southern Thailand adventure begins.
• Start in Railay, a picturesque bay that boasts some of the best rock climbing in Thailand.
• Catch a ferry to Koh Lanta for astounding beaches, snorkeling, caving and waterfall adventures. From here, you can take a day trip to one of the smaller islands in the Andaman Sea.
• Head back to the mainland where you can visit the beautiful Khao Sok National Park and indulge yourself in elephant trekking, cycling and jungle camping.
• While there are multiple options for getting to Surat Thani from Khao Sok, the easiest is still taking a minibus. From Surat Thani, you can easily reach.
• From Khao Sok, take a minibus to Surat Thani, jumping-off point for Koh Phangan, Thailand’s largest beach venue to celebrate. If that’s not your thing, spend some time doing yoga, meditation at any of the yoga retreats in Koh Phangan.
• Take a ferry just one hour to Koh Tao where diving is taken very seriously. Attend the open water diving course at Koh Tao or just snorkel in the crystal clear waters.

Travelling to Thailand for 2 weeks? Here’s my suggested travel itinerary for 14 days in Thailand !

When to Go Backpacking in Thailand

In a nutshell, the best time to visit Thailand is generally during the cooler, dryer months. The high season runs from November to around Mid-February and you can expect pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures. During the summer months from June to August, the heat quickly becomes suffocating in the south of the country, making it hard to do anything mid-day.

The rainy season (monsoon) (occurs roughly between June and October) isn’t all bad as you can escape the peak season crowds and enjoy a lush green Thailand that few people see. In fact, the rainy season can be one of the best times to visit Thailand. The prices for accommodation and tours are at their lowest. There are fewer people and the land is lush and beautiful. Occasional showers often comes all at once in a short burst of time in the afternoons, leaving the mornings bright, fresh and cool. Therefore, waking up earlier gives you plenty of time to explore. In addition, watching monsoon rains is an experience in itself.

To help you find the perfect time to visit Thailand during your backpacking adventure, check out my in-depth article on when to go backpacking in Thailand . Give it a quick look!

Backpacker Accommodation in Thailand

The streets and islands of Thailand are full of kickass hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels and finding a decent option is easier than you think. A bed in a dorm room is readily available for only a few dollars. While a private room in a guesthouse will set you back $10-15 per night. In general, accommodation in the north of Thailand tend to be cheaper than in Bangkok or the southern islands, where prices are usually higher (but still comparably low). Generally, you’ll find affordable options and get great value for money everywhere in Thailand.

Where To Stay in Thailand

Below are a few of my favourite hostels and budget accommodation options when backpacking Thailand:

Smile Society Boutique Hostel, Bangkok NapPark Hostel, Bangkok Counting Sheeps at CNX, Chiang Mai The Entaneer Poshtel, Chiang Mai BUSKET HOSTEL, Chiang Rai Juno Hostel Pai, Pai THE PORT HOSTEL BY SUWATCHAI, Suratthani Book a Bed Poshtel, Phuket Mini Boxtel Aonang Hostel, Krabi Link Hostel Aonang, Krabi @The Pier 519 Hostel, Koh Phi Phi Na-tub Hostel, Koh Phangan At Hostel Samui, Koh Samui The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel, Koh Tao Asleep Hostel, Koh Lanta The Bedrooms Hostel, Pattaya Busaba, Ayutthaya

Cost of Backpacking Thailand

In comparison to Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan, backpacking Thailand is quite affordable but it isn’t as cheap as Cambodia or Laos. Traveling in Thailand doesn’t have to be expensive. With some insider backpacker tips, hopefully, you won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

This backpacking Thailand travel guide also outlines some wallet-friendly budget accommodation options and other money-saving tips to help you keep your travel costs down.

Monthly Budget for Thailand

If you plan on spending a good amount of backpacking Thailand, then expect to pay around $950-$1200. Of course, this all depends on how you plan out your trip and if you honor your budget you should be able to meet it. Following these tips to backpacking Thailand will help you reduce your travel costs.

Daily Budget for Thailand

Plan to spend from $35 anywhere near to $47 with accommodation.

Let me not forget the important detail of booking a flight. Thankfully, finding cheap airfare isn’t too difficult if you know how to find insanely cheap airline tickets.

The big question that’s on everyone’s mind is: How much is this going to cost to go backpacking Thailand?

Accommodation

Bangkok is arguably one of Thailand’s most expensive cities. On average, hostels in Thailand cost about $9-12 for a dorm bed. Private Airbnb apartments are around $22 in Bangkok.

Food in Thailand

Fruits are especially affordable in Thailand, and a great way to save money. Street vendors and restaurants are extremely affordable too by Western standards. An average meal may cost $3-8. Beers from 7-Eleven stores like Singha, Leo, and Chang are about $2 for 330ml.

Motorbikes go for $5-16 and up depending on the type of bike and where. The north is generally cheaper. Helmets are not an option and tickets can run you $8-17 per infringement/depending which officer pulls you over. Thailand’s helmet law is not strictly enforced, especially in provinces and among tourist riders.

Long-distance buses are around $15 and more. Especially if it’s an overnight bus and depend heavily on which class you are in during the trip.

Trains are $23-50 depending on what class you get and for long distances. Prices can be as low as $0.50 for an hour or two ride.

Songthaews (large taxi truck things) are the cheapest public transport and can get you anywhere for $1.50.

If you’re a first-timer and not familiar with the route, ask a taxi driver to use the meter. Avoid getting in taxi if the diver refuses to use it. A taxi ride normally costs under $3. Tuk Tuks are great fun but you have to haggle, they tend to be more expensive at around $5 a ride.

Grab is available in Thailand too! This app is great for getting around big cities because it’s a bit more regulated and makes you feel more secure. Be sure to download the app in advance!

There are so many incredible attractions and cool activities in Thailand that won’t cost you a fortune. That’s exactly what makes Thailand so special – the incredible diversity at affordable prices. Even if you only have a week in Thailand, you can gather as many different impressions and experiences here as in just a few other travel destinations in the region. And with its strong tourism infrastructure, Thailand is also the perfect “gateway” for travelers and backpackers in Southeast Asia.

Many temples and museums are for free, and others like the Grand Palace and Wat Poh in Bangkok are very affordable. At the same time, the boat trips around the islands like Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Tao were the most expensive attractions.

The secret for saving some money on the tours is to check the price with different tour operators and haggle. There are plenty of things to do and see in Thailand, so if choose to pay for a tour it will cost between $15 and $35 a day. Trekking with a guide costs between $30 and $50 a day. A PADI dive certification course costs around $360.

How to Get Around Backpacking Thailand

Flights in thailand.

I definitely love the fact the fact that Thailand like Europe has a number of budget airlines. Flying is probably the quickest way to get around Thailand and reach the neighbouring countries like China, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. AirAsia is one the most popular low-cost airline and you can get some pretty good deals when booking in advance.

Also consider flying with Nok, Thai Smile and Thai Lion that can get you from Chiang Mai to Krabi in just a couple of hours including your time at the airport. They too offer some great deals and routings. If you’re flying to Thailand or plan to take short flights within the country, try using a few different flight comparison search engines. Kiwi and Skyscanner are the two best engines for finding the cheapest flights to Thailand.

Train Travel in Thailand

Thailand’s train system connects all the distant corners. The extensive rail network covers all major towns with the noticeable exception of Phuket which is reachable by bus. Overnight sleeper trains provide a much nicer way to travel long distances and all passengers get their own bed with a privacy curtain. Carriages are comfortable and clean and there is no shortage of food on trains regardless of class you are traveling on. Fares are generally quite cheap and tickets must be purchased directly from the train station or online.

Spending a night on a sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is a quintessential Thailand experience. Basically, Thai trains have three classes: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. 1st class includes fancy private air-con sleeping-cars with double beds on overnight trains. 2nd class comes in seat and sleeper versions has both A/C and non-A/C carriages, and is very comfortable particularly on sleeper trains and the A/C express railcars. Even the 3rd class is surprisingly clean and is a pleasant way to travel for many shorter trips. Since Thailand introduced stricter smoking laws all trains are now non-smoking. After my recent train journey, I tend to choose the second class because the beds are just as comfy as the 1st class with enough room for a backpack.

Bus travel in Thailand

No trip to Thailand is complete without taking a bus ride at least once.

Local buses are cheap and convenientю But once you need to find a bus stop you often should ask locals first. Sometimes, buses like open-air buses in Phuket do not necessarily stop at bus stops. They only stop when they see passengers waving at them saying, “Hey, stop, I want in!” If you need to wave the bus down, signal to the driver with a wave and stand back away from the road. Buses may or may not have ticket inspectors to collect the fare. If there is no bus inspector, the driver leaves his cabin every time there are new passengers to collect the fare.

Local buses are generally slower than trains and planes. But they offer an excellent opportunity to meet other travelers and locals, chat with them and enjoy the scenery passing by. While so many travelers out there opt for VIP buses, a ride on a local bus offers the feeling of the fresh air on your face and the wind blowing through your hair. Planning on visiting Sangkhlaburi in Kanchanaburi province? You MUST ride a local bus!

There are also many VIP buses across Thailand. These specifically cater to tourists and run the most popular routes. Bangkok to Chiang Mai, or Bangkok to Surat Thani, for example.

No, you don’t have to be a Very Important Person to use VIP buses in Thailand (obviously!). While, the acronym does represent a higher level of comfort than you will find on local buses, not to mention minibusses, traveling on a VIP bus offers a safe, fast, comfortable experience. Yup, they are affordable too compared to transport in Western countries. They are offer incredibly good value for money.

Drive Around Thailand in a Tuk-Tuk

I’m not telling you to explore the entire country in these three-wheeled vehicles because they are noisy, and uncomfortable for journeys longer than 10 minutes. However, these small open-air taxis with two-stroke engine is an extremely fun way to get around Thailand for short distances. Thais drive their tuk-tuks like crazy, cutting everyone up. Moreover, they charge a lot more than a regular motorcycle taxi or Songthaew. If haggling is your thing and you like speed driving, riding a tuk-tuk is something you’ll love.

Best Food to Try While Backpacking Thailand

Thailand’s cuisine is arguably one of the best in the world! That alone was reason enough for me to visit Thailand as a backpacker. Here, you can get a tasty Pad Thai or Khao Soi for only $1-2. Do not miss the tasty street food though. It’s nutritious and is bound to be a highlight of your backpacking Thailand adventure. Do not worry, the hygiene, because the food is prepared right in front of you.

For lunch, most Thais eat noodle soup, which contains noodles, a type of meat (chicken, pork, beef, fish or meatballs) and a sprinkling of vegetables in a tasty broth. A bowl of wholesome goyteow costs between 30-50 Baht ($1-$1.5 USD) depending on where you are and how posh the restaurant is. Other Thai street food dishes that are cheap are rice and noodle-based dishes range from Pad Krapow to Pad See Yew.

Western food like pizza and burgers is more expensive than local food, as you’d imagine. You can get a pizza or a burger for around 250 Baht $7-8 USD. There are many decent Western restaurants across the country that offer familiar foods you got used to.

Check out this article on best Thai dishes to try for more inspiration!

How To Visit Thailand on a Budget

To keep your spending as low as possible whilst travelling in Thailand I recommend utilising a few tried and tested methods of budget adventuring.

Buy Alcohol at Convenience Stores

It’s a no-brainer that buying beer and wine at bars can cost three times as much as buying at convenience store. Expect to pay around about 100-150 Baht per bottle in a pub, while buying a local beer at a convenience store will only cost you about 45-50 THB. Stick to drinking Singha, Chang or Leo because imported drinks quickly drain your wallet. Imported beers will cost you anywhere between 180-200 THB.

Shop at a Weekend Market

Hit local markets for pretty much anything. You’ll get great deals on goods like the famous hippie trousers, foods, trinkets, and more. It doesn’t really matter in which city you’re visiting the market. In general, they offer deals that you can’t get in the stores or from daily vendors. Don’t get too carried away though. You need to know exactly how much you want to spend before entering, because you could blow your daily budget, or more.

Haggle for the Best Bargain

You should know that there are two types of costs in Thailand. Thai local’s prices and prices for everyone who looks like a foreigner, or farang in Thai. Always negotiate a price especially while in local markets. You can always get a better price for things, services and activities. In tourist hot spots like Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Samui or Phuket, negotiate the fare before you take the ride. Make sure you exactly know the price before arriving and being stuck with the fare they say.

Eat Street Food

Thai food is definitely a highlight you don’t want to miss. I think you’ll agree with me when I say, there’s no better way to experience Thai food than eating from street stalls. It’s safe. It’s cheap and it’s an experience. Pick the busiest stall since their food has quicker turnaround times and fresher food. Delicious street food won’t put a stop on your spending, and you can point at a random dishes as many times as you want without blowing your budget.

Best Places to Visit in Thailand

You have probably realized by now that Thailand is one of the most budget-friendly countries in the world. That said, the Land of Smiles is filled with unbelievable natural scenery, beautiful islands, culture, history, wildlife, and delicious food. To make things easier for you, I’ve put together this list of the best places in Thailand that are still worth visiting, crowded or not.

Backpacking Bangkok

It is very common to hear that so many people set up a base in Bangkok. With an absolute ton of cheap hostels, arguably the most delicious food in Southeast Asia and vibrant nightlife, BKK is fantastic city to explore. However, the hectic heart of the backpacker scene isn’t a place one immediately falls in love with. Many travellers, hate it when they first arrive, but explore it a little further and you will come to love it. Check out these things you should know before traveling to Bangkok .

Backpacking Khao Sok National Park

The lowland rainforest of Khao Sok National Park is arguably the most beautiful place to enjoy in southern Thailand. Here you’ll find multiple waterfall trails, unspoiled jungle, staggering biodiversity and a clear blue jade lake of Cheow Lan with its floating bungalows. Khao Sok NP offers a plethora of different accommodation options to suite everyone’s travel style. These range from budget guesthouses to treehouse bungalows. Khao Sok is home to world’s largest flower too. Rafflesia flower typically blooms for 4 days and then begins to wither and smell attracting a lot of flies. You need to be there to see it with your own eyes.

Backpacking Chiang Rai

The charming city of Chiang Rai is a convenient base for exploring the scenic countryside as well as the Golden Triangle (Saam Liam Thong Kham). Chiang Rai is still much undiscovered and often overlooked by travellers for it’s larger neigbour – Chiang Mai.

I heard about Chiang Rai for the first time from my school teacher who was an avid globetrotter. Chiang Rai is just a little bit further north than Chiang Mai with plenty of affordable backpacker-style accommodation. You can also visit it on a day trip from Chiang Mai. Among the most popular attractions in Chiang Rai are the unique temples, particularly the Fish Tail Cave or Wat Tham Pla and the incredible White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) glistening in the sun.

Backpacking Sukhothai

The ancient capital of Thailand, Sukhothai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that makes a great stopover on the way from Chiang Mai to Bangkok or vice versa. The Old Sukhothai (meuang gòw) is a must for anyone seeking some real Thai culture and craving insight into Thailand’s fascinating history.

Rent a cheap bicycle and ride by ancient temples and impressive Buddha statues. Sukhothai Historical Park is broken up into several parts and makes it a relaxing place to explore. You can see most things of interest in a day. I’d recommend visiting at least one set of ruins when backpacking in Thailand. I’d probably say Ayutthaya is the best but Lopburi and Sukhothai are unmissable too. If you’re planning on renting a bike consider getting one at your accommodation (if you’re staying for more than a day). Keep in mind, rentals close to the park are much more expensive.

Backpacking Chiang Mai

This is the largest city in Thailand’s north and is like no other in country. Once a former seat of the Lanna Kingdom, it now has become a haven for backpackers, partyers and digital nomads escaping the frenzied buzz of the metropolitan cities. Chiang Mai is the most culturally significant city in the region. Its northern location makes the city a desirable destination for everyone willing to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

Chiang Mai boasts a well-preserved Old City with a moat and dozens of ancient temples neighboring the busy markets. I can’t recommend wandering the Old City and hitting the night markets along Wualai Street and Ratchadamnoen Road highly enough. A lot of travelers end up staying longer than they anticipated because once you immerse yourself in Chiang Mai’s markets and temples, you won’t want to leave.

Backpacking Pai

Situated in the hills of Mai Hong Son, the tiny town of Pai is like a magnet for backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts, and travellers who are into trekking with hill tribes. Just 15 very few people heard about this town and even fewer people had any idea where it’s on the map. But for those who do know and who do travel to Pai, there are Mo Paeng and Pam Bok waterfalls, the Pai Canyon and what they call the Land Split. I originally came to Pai for three days and ended up staying for additional 20 days. I definitely recommend renting a motorbike to explore the area at your own pace.

Backpacking the Thai Islands

Thailand has a plethora of jaw-dropping gorgeous islands. Many of them are large enough to offer accommodation, but some are part of a national reserve and thus only accessible by day trips. As I said before, southern islands tend to be more expensive than the northern areas. But this shouldn’t keep you from visiting the area though.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are some smaller tropical islands in the Gulf of Thailand that are pretty much uninhabited. Some other islands are very popular (read crowded) and some only have just a few bungalows on them. If you’re planning your perfect Thailand island-hopping adventure take a closer look at Koh Samet, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tarutao, Koh Chang, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, Koh Lanta, and the Similan Islands. To get more off the beaten track while backpacking Thailand, head on over to Koh Lipe.

Many of the lesser-known islands offer a charming and laid-back atmosphere. For a bit secluded treehouse experience – head to Koh Yao Noi. Catch a boat from Phuket heading to Koh Yao Noi, a fairly chilled out island where I spent seven days living in an amazing treehouse in the forest. This can be your best bet if you’re yearning for a hassle-free getaway in search of tranquility and relaxation, all in one.

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Thailand Travel Guide For Backpackers & Digital Nomads

You might have think you have an idea of what Thailand is after watching ‘The Hangover’ but trust me, this country is more than just party.Whether visiting the grand palace, witnessing a sunset at Railey Beach or passing by a limestone monolith of Phang Naga Bay, everything will leave you awestruck with its unique beauty. With the breath-taking views if its magnificent beaches, stunning ancient temples and even modern urban cities there won’t be you a moment to be bored in Thailand.

There is a reason that this country is the number one tourist spot in South East Asia. Also known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ the country is home to some of the friendliest and humble people.

Table of Contents

My thailand story, thailand at a glace.

English & Thai

Differs By Country

Uber & GrabTaxi

Looking For Friends Or Have Questions? Check our whatsapp chats , Dont see a group? Check “ More Travel Whatsapp Groups ‘

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Thailand Visa Requirements

Yes, Thailand provides an exclusive type of visa called a “Smart Visa” for digital nomads. This visa was made in 2018 to help business owners, professionals, and investors from other countries who want to invest in Thailand or work remotely . Remember that the application procedure might be difficult and time-consuming. 

Read more here: https://www.thaievisa.go.th/

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Thailand

1. The Grand Palace

2. Elephant Nature Park

3. Floating Market

4. The Golden Triang

5. Maaim Contemporary Art Museum

Other Things to See and Do in Thailand

1. kampon chang, 3. chiang mai, 4. phi phi islands, 6. ayutthaya, 7. mueang chiang rai, 9. doi suthep–pui national park, 10. hua hin, 11. kanchanaburi, typical costs.

Transportation

You can explore the country using its local transportation which is very cheap, costing only a few dollars. Tuk-tuks can be seen on every other corner in the big cities still, you should negotiate in advance before hopping on (usually not more than $5 for a good distance). Alternatively, you can think of renting a car which will cost you about $20 and mostly arranged by the hostels you are staying in. Now, bus transport has improved in the main cities of Cambodia which costs between $10-$20 per person from one main location to another.

Accommodation

If you choose to live in luxurious accommodation, the cost is high. Go for the shared rooms in hostel dorms or search through hosting websites to get cheap but comfortable accommodation. A nice hotel will charge you around $66 for a room per night. While in some cheap hostel you will get a bed for $3-$7 per night.

Try the local food. It is not only cheap but also lets you experience the local cuisine with its traditional taste. A meal from a local stall may consist of vegetables, rice and a small amount of meat will be for about $1-$1.75. However, if you opt for big meals from a variety of dishes and fish it will be for $2-$7. Indoor Thai restaurants with good atmosphere and air conditioner cost about $3-$7 per person while international or Japanese restaurant cost $10-$17.

Coming Soon

Cost Of Living In Thailand

Depending on your lifestyle, Thailand has a variety of cost of living options. A studio-style bedroom should cost between $320 and 640 per month, but if shared, it might be much less. Food costs roughly $62 to $80 per week, and one trip on the road may cost $2 to $6. A monthly budget of $700 to $1,000 is ideal.

Suggested Budget

It is better to decide your budget beforehand, no matter what your destination is. Formulating a daily budget helps you with managing your expenses properly. If you just go for a vacation without a budget you will be surprised by how fast you burn money.

Overall Thailand is a cheap country, compared to other tourist destinations. If you use the backpackers mode of transportation, eat from locals and stay in economical places, your trip would cost you about $30-$35 per day.

Want something more specific? Check out this !  Phuket budget guide

Budgeting Tips

1. tours: book through your hostel, or from a local, 2. use couchsurfing, 3. eat local & avoid western food, 4. bargaining, 5. negotiate, food in thailand, best cities in thailand for digital nomads.

• Chiang Mai 

Where To Stay

All around Europe, I used hostels, so that I can make some friends, here are some places that I stayed at and really enjoyed. 

NapPark Hostel

Counting Sheep at CNX

Pak-Up Hostel

The Grand Palace

The golden triang, nomad networking.

We Camp Thailand 

Thailand Day Trips Meet Up

Weekday Traveler Thailand

Bangkok Expat and Digital Nomads Meetup

Start Up Your Morning

Thai for Expats

Bangkok Tech Meetups

Bangkok Digital Nomads

Bangkok Entrepreneurs

Bangkok Expats Meetup

Thailand – COME TOGETHER – NETWORKING on Koh Samui

Thailand Business Network

Business & Networking Thailand

Erasmus+ Network in Thailand

Digital Nomads Thailand

Nomad Coworking And Working Spots

You cant be a digital nomad without wifi. So below are some spots where one can work comfortably. Don’t forget to check my nomad lunch break section for places you can still visit and/or work from during lunch.  #nomadworkspace

Floating Market

Tuber Co-Working Space (ทูเบอร์) : Address

RIVA Floating Cafe : Address

Elephant Nature Park​

Majestic Coffee: Address

WeWork Spring Tower : Address

Pier Lab : Address

Krisa Coffee House: Address

Nomad Lunch Breaks

Balancing work and exploring can be tough, here are some activities or places you can visit during a lunch hour. You will see the words hotspot, wifi, or break which indicates what you can use to work there, or if you cant and its time for a work break. #nomadlunchbreak

Elephant Nature Park

Wifi and internet in thailand.

Thailand has good internet access, and most urban areas have access to trustworthy WiFi. But internet speed and reliability are often inconsistent in rural areas and on smaller islands. It’s a good idea to have a backup local SIM and hotspot

Getting Around Thailand

The most popular way to get around. Make sure you agree on a price before getting on.

RideSharing

If you hire a taxi without a meter make sure to negotiate a fare before starting your ride.

Motorcycle taxis are also available in many towns and cities which you can find at markets, bus terminals, and road junctions. The driver will give you a helmet and cost before starting the ride, you can do this via grab (asia’s uber).

Go-Jek and Grab are two online taxi services popular in major Indonesian cities. You can easily order a car or bike through the app and pay the calculated fare. No need to bargain or worry about being scammed.

The cheapest mode of transportation but also very slow. Don’t choose trains if you are in a hurry. There are three classes of travel. First the most expensive class and only available in night trains, the second air-conditioned class with softer and comfortable seats, and third the cheapest class with hard seats and no air-conditioning. You can book your tickets online at  12go.asia  by paying a small surcharge. Check out my post about  12go.asia,  it will save you a lot of hassle.

The second best transport option is buses as trains do not go everywhere. Buses are generally comfortable and cheap. But they stop a lot on the way to pick up travelers, even from the roadside. They are not in a rush so don’t expect them to be quick.

Thai airlines is very cheap and affordable. Grab  a flight for quick travel.

Hitch Hiking

There are many ferries at different price points, compare prices online so that you don’t over pay.

https://12go.asia/en  : This link will get you buses, trains, taxis, ferries and flights for most major routes in Asia.

When To Visit Thailand: Weather And Seasons

Thailand weather can be divided mainly into three seasons; hot, cool and rainy. The weather varies throughout the region due to a distinct east versus west climate. The hot season runs from February to June in Central Thailand while to April in Northern Thailand. After that, the rainy season starts ending by September/October. October to January/February are cool months. The best time to visit Thailand depends on what activities you are more interested in. for snorkeling and scuba diving bets time is between March and April, but for sightseeing and visiting natural parks, I prefer the cool season. The peak time in Thailand is around January when the weather is dry and pleasant.

Pros And Cons Of Living As A Digital Nomad In Thailand

• Affordable Cost of Living 

In general, Thailand is cheaper than many other countries, especially when it comes to food, transportation, and lodging. 

• Beautiful Scenery and Beaches 

Thailand is a great place to work and unwind at the same time because it has the best beaches and natural scenery.

• Delicious Cuisine

Thai food is renowned for its strong flavors, seasonal produce, and affordable, delicious food that is easy to find.

• Growing Community of Expats and Digital Nomads 

Thailand is home to a growing number of digital nomads and expats, making it easy to meet people with similar interests. 

• Hot and Humid Weather 

Due to its tropical climate, Thailand can become very hot and muggy, especially in the summer.

• Language Barriers 

Despite the fact that many Thai people are English-speaking, it can be challenging for non-Thais to get around and interact with people on a daily basis.

• Traffic in Major Cities

In Thailand’s largest cities, especially Bangkok, where traffic is notoriously heavy and makes it difficult to travel and move around, congestion can be a major issue.

• Potential for Scams 

Be cautious and stay away from anyone who offers guaranteed interest or sizable discounts because there is always a chance of scams and crimes that are specifically targeted at tourists.

Common Questions About Thailand

Although availability and cost will vary depending on location and season, it is typically easy to find affordable lodging in Thailand. The three cities of Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket are favorites of digital nomads.

Obtaining a long-term visa in Thailand is still possible, even though being a digital nomad makes it slightly more difficult. The type of visa you require will depend on your specific situation, including whether you are an employee, an entrepreneur, or a freelancer. It might take a long time and a lot of paperwork to obtain long-term access in Thailand.

How To Stay Safe and Aware of Scams

Generally, Thailand is a safe country and people are also very sweet and helping. But there are also exceptions. Keep a few things in your mind and you will have a wonderful trip without any major problems.

1. Motor Bike Scam

2. tuk tuk drivers, 3. credit card fraud, 6. petty crime, packing list.

Depending on the length of your stay your list may be a little different but here is a small outline of what items you may want to pack for 1 week.

2 Pairs of Shorts

5 long sleeve

8 pairs of underwear

2 Pair of jeans

Swim Trunks

Comfortable Sneakers

Quick dry towel

Laundry Bag

8 pairs of socks

Hand Sanitizer

Sun Glasses

Did I Miss Something? Let Me Know In The Comments!

Final thoughts: is thailand good for digital nomads.

Thailand remains as a top destination for backpackers and digital nomads. Its diverse nature, bustling cities and plenty of cafes and coworking spaces, make this a perfect country. 

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Thailand Travel Guide 2024

Thailand, the vibrant heart of Southeast Asia, is the perfect introduction to backpacking around Asia. It has the perfect blend of culture shock and adventure, balanced with a friendly and accommodating population. Thailand is a well-trodden route for backpackers, so it is well-geared up for foreigners trying to find their way around.

Bangkok, Thailand’s pulsating capital, offers an exciting fusion of historical and contemporary attractions for backpackers. Highlights include the mesmerising Grand Palace and the sacred Wat Phra Kaew, vibrant street markets like Chatuchak for unique finds, and the famed backpackers’ haunt, Khaosan Road, for night-time partying and street food.

Northwards, in Chiang Mai, immerse yourself in cultural experiences like traditional cooking classes and meditation retreats. Wander around the ancient temples of the Old City, or venture into the mountains for an awe-inspiring hike.

Down south in the Islands, Koh Phangan, renowned for its full moon parties, enthrals with its pristine waters for diving and snorkelling, and jungle trails leading to hidden waterfalls. In Krabi, beach and adventure lovers can kayak through mangrove forests, rock climb at Railay Beach, and dive into the vibrant marine life. Unforgettable experiences await with island hopping to Phi Phi Islands or Koh Lanta. Please take a look at our destination guides to find out more.

Currency: Baht  (฿) ( THB ) Timezone: UTC +7 ( ICT ) International Dial code: +66

Koh Phi Phi Guide

Koh tao guide, koh samet (koh samed) guide, koh phangan (koh pha-ngan) guide, koh samui guide, koh lanta guide, when is the best time to go to thailand.

This all depends on your preferences. Seasonal temperatures might be important to you, so check out our Seasonal Weather in Thailand guide.

High season for tourists, meaning busy destinations and higher prices, is usually November to March.

April is one of the hotter months and is also the time of Songkran, the Thai New Year. This is a major Thai holiday, which means lots of celebrations, but also means locals book a lot of the transport. Also, it’s one of the more dangerous times to travel on the roads. March/April can also be a time for lots of pollution in the Northern regions such as Chiang Mai, where it is the burning season. If you have any breathing conditions you may well wish to avoid these areas at this time.

Understandably the wetter months are usually quieter, but this is reflected by lower prices too.

Thailand Visa Requirements

Many countries are offered a visa waiver, where you can get 30 days on arrival without any paperwork. However, as these things tend to change from time to time it’s best to check with the Thai visa website as well as with your own country’s Government travel advice.

Health & Safety

Travelling in Thailand is a safe and trouble-free experience for the majority of visitors. However, it is wise to be aware of a few factors that might be different to your home country.

The most important consideration is to make sure you have adequate travel insurance. Understandably, this is not an inspiring part of your adventure – but it would give you peace of mind. There are often stories of travellers who have neglected this aspect of their responsibility and have ended up in dire need of assistance without it. It is not worth the risk of going without. You should also be aware of common exceptions to claims such as being under the influence of alcohol and riding motorcycles without a licence or protective helmet.

Roads – Thailand has one of the world’s worst records for road safety. It is not recommended to hire a vehicle to drive unless you are experienced with the vehicle (especially bikes) and are used to the cultural driving norms – probably very different from home.

Food Safety – Stomach bugs abroad can be common, often just due to exposure to new germs you may not be used to. However, being more proactive in basic hygiene such as hand washing can help prevent this. The best rule to stick to is to eat where it is busy. Don’t be afraid to eat at street vendors if you can see they are cooking things fresh and hot..

Scams – While violent crime is relatively low in Thailand, you are more likely to be scammed or robbed via stealth. Be aware of overly friendly people trying to give you advice or give you a “special deal”. The rule applies especially in high tourist areas, with become a magnet for thieves and scam artists. It’s probably one of the worst detractors from visiting the country, having to maintain a level of scepticism – whilst not letting it spoil your enjoyment of your trip. It gets easier with practice, however!

Transport in Thailand

One of the great things about Thailand for backpackers is that it is very easy to get around. It helps add to that sense of freedom and spontaneity. When travelling long distances, there are several airports, which is particularly helpful if you are short on time. These are mostly served by local airlines which can be cheap and cheerful. However, a network of trains and coaches also offers a more environmentally friendly option, with the bonus of scenery and adventure en route. There are also local transport links via Taxis and the world-famous Tuk Tuk rickshaws. You will find plenty of tour agents willing to help you arrange transfers around the country, often selling combination tickets which combine a bus and a ferry ticket, common for Island transfers.

Flying – Airlines such as Air Asia, Nok Air, and Bangkok Airways operate at competitive prices depending on when you book. But note that Bangkok Airways has a monopoly on flying to Koh Samui, so expect their prices to be higher for comparable flights.

Buses – There is a huge array of buses, ranging from Government run busses to private budget buses to luxurious buses that let you lay flat out for a night’s sleep. If you are really (un)lucky you might get subjected to an extended period of Thai karaoke music.

Trains – Thailand has a good train network and is relatively cheap. Night trains are also a popular option which also saves you the cost of a hotel room. Popular routes, such as between Bangkok and Chiangmai, often need to be booked a month in advance because they sell out.

Boats – With all of the Islands in Thailand – you can expect to see a lot of ferry action. For shorter distances, you will find a lot of speedboats or long-tail boats willing to take you where you need to go, sometimes at negotiable prices. In Bangkok – river ferries are a very reasonably priced way to get across the city.

Local Transport – In major cities, you can now use smartphone apps such as Grab or Bolt. Otherwise, you can get meter taxis – which sometimes try to persuade you not to use the meter, for a fixed fee. This can sometimes work in your favour if you are knowledgeable about your journey, but it’s usually best to insist on a meter. Motorcycle taxis also exist, if you feel fearless or need to get somewhere in a rush.

Buses, especially in large cities, are cheap but very slow; they are quite an experience if you want to feel authentic. The iconic, noisy, raucous Tuk-Tuk are usually more orientated towards tourists. This is reflected in higher prices than taxis. They are also more negotiable, as the initial quoted fare is usually grossly inflated. But they are fun and part of the experience of being in Thailand – so worth at least one trip. (Just don’t get drawn into the scam of getting dragged around the driver’s “friends” shops.) A cross between a bus/taxi/tuk-tuk is the Songtaew. These are converted pickup trucks with bench seats. These are more commonly found in smaller cities with tourist centres and also on the islands. They often wait to have a few passengers before they set off – or they can go immediately if you are prepared to pay extra. Motorbike rental – This can be a controversial subject. Bike hire is cheap and plentiful across Thailand and can be one of the most freeing forms of transport. However, this can come at a heavy cost. Thailand’s roads often take the unenviable title of most deadly in the world. Roughly 20,000 deaths per year occur, mostly on motorbikes. Culturally speaking, as a foreigner, if you are involved in an accident, you can sometimes be held accountable, even if it wasn’t your fault.

If you are injured or liable for damage and need to claim in your insurance, most policies will not cover you if you are not licensed to drive a similar bike at home. Similarly, not if you are not wearing a suitable helmet or have consumed alcohol.

Even if you do have a motorbike licence at home, you may find the rules (written and unwritten!) of the road completely different. Where you may expect people to adhere to rules of the road at home, don’t be surprised to encounter people driving the wrong way down the road without lights at night and other ‘interesting’ violations of rules at home.

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Guide and Tips to Flying With a Backpack: Is It a Carry-On?

Posted on Published: 04/02/2024

Backpacks are often considered bags for students or hikers, but in reality, they are very convenient traveling bags. When flying, a backpack can be easy to carry throughout the airport, leaving your hands free for rolling your suitcase. Good travel backpacks also offer a variety of convenient features when traveling.

But, you may be wondering how to best travel with your backpack, what the best backpacks for traveling are, and if your backpack will be considered a carry-on or a personal item. This post will help you learn how to best travel with a backpack for your next flight.

This post contains affiliate links, and a purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own. The bags listed below were purchased at our own expense.

Guide to Traveling With a Backpack

Is a backpack considered a carry on or personal item .

In most cases, a standard backpack will likely be considered a personal item. This will vary, however, depending on your specific airline’s rules and the exact size of the backpack you’ll be using.

You’ll want to check both of these before packing for your trip. It can be frustrating to arrive at the airport and find out that your bag is over the stated limit.

In general, a backpack will be considered a personal item if it fits under the seat in front of you. While airlines may have more restrictive policies, the FAA limits each person to one carry on bag and one personal item . Your backpack counts as one of these items.

Most airlines describe a personal item as a diaper bag, handbag, briefcase, camera bag, or computer bag. Generally, any bags that are this size will be considered a personal item.

Some gigantic backpacks, however, may not even be considered a carry-on bag. Again, you’ll want to know the exact dimensions of your packed backpack and compare them against the stated regulations of your airline.

The easiest way to find these regulations is to search on the website of your airline. That’s where you will generally find the most accurate and updated information. there may also be weight restrictions in addition to size restrictions for carry-on luggage.

Pros of Using a Backpack for Travel

I love flying with a backpack as my personal item because then it’s a convenient bag to use at my destination. Whether I’m visiting a theme park or going on a city vacation, a backpack is versatile and can hold a lot.

If you find just the right travel backpack, you’ll also have options for carrying in through the airport. While most people do choose to wear a backpack on their back, some travel backpacks offer a sleeve in the back which can be used to attach the bag to the handle of a roller bag.

I prefer to use the backpack as a personal item. That’s because with most airline fares (although not all economy fares), I can bring both a personal item and a carry-on. I use the backpack as my personal item, and a larger roller bag as my carry-on (this is the bag that goes in the overhead bins).

Checking luggage? While most airlines charge for a checked bag (and sometimes for a carry-on bag), you can generally bring a personal item free of charge. Again, this depends on the airline and the fare you’ve booked.

What Features to Look for in a Travel Backpack

If you are purchasing a new backpack for travel, there are some features you’ll want to look for. The most important is to make sure it’s personal bag or carry on size. If you want it to count as a personal item and don’t want to put it in the overhead compartment, you’ll need to be more careful about size.

Other features can make a backpack more useful for travel, especially if you want to use the bag at your destination. Here are a few things to look for:

• A padded laptop pouch
• Dedicated spot for a water bottle
• Back sleeve or strap to put over a rolling bag handle
• Padded straps
• Separate pouch (to store wet items)
• Large zipper pocket to easily store clothes and other travel essentials
• External pocket to quickly store your boarding pass and ID
• A color selection that fits your personal style and is unique (to stand out among other bags)

My Favorite Travel Backpacks To Buy

I have three different travel backpacks that I recommend. These all have different features and functionality and are at different price points.

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag

Baboon to the Moon offers some fun, unique, and functional travel bags, and their backpacks are among my favorites. The Go-Bag is available in three sizes, and the mini (32L) is best for an airline personal item.

The Baboon to the Moon Go Bag is made of Phthalate-free PVC fabric, and opens like a suitcase rather than a backpack. This makes it much easier to pack.

It has a zipper rain pouch, an external passport pouch, top and side handles, comfortable straps, and lockable zippers. The Go-Bag comes in some bright fun colors, including some limited colors.

When packed, it looks more like a duffle bag than a backpack. This bag, however, doesn’t have a sleeve or a strap in the back to attach to a roller bag.

You can find the Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag on their website .

Beis: The Expandable Backpack

Beis is popular for offering trendy and stylish travel products that are also functional. Their Expandable Backpack is a fan favorite, and it is a great option as a travel bag

The Beis Expandable Backpack is made of recycled water bottles. It includes a water bottle pocket, a laptop sleeve, and a key fob leash. A sleeve along the back makes it easy to place on top of your rolling suitcase.

As the name implies, this bag can be opened further to fit even more. But, once you are at your destination, if you choose to use it as a day bag, it won’t feel quite as big.

You can find all of the Beis bags, including the expandable backpack, on their website .

Large Travel Backpack

This budget-friendly backpack, sold by Amazon, is a favorite among travelers. It comes in a huge variety of different colors, and includes a lot of helpful features. These include a shoe compartment, a wet pouch, a strap on the back to attach to a rolling suitcase, and a laptop pouch.

You can find this travel backpack on Amazon .

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