Everything You Should Know Before Traveling to Thailand
Thailand was a dream destination for me. One of my favorite cuisines is Thai food, so naturally Thailand has been on my bucket list for a long time! Once I finally went, I understood why people keep going back. It’s vibrant, affordable, spiritual, chaotic in the best way, and surprisingly grounding all at once.
That said… Thailand is not a destination you want to wing. There are a few things I really wish I knew before landing—and if you’re planning your first trip, this post will save you some stress and help you enjoy it so much more.
1. The Travel Is Long—Plan for Recovery Time
Getting to Thailand is no joke. Between long-haul flights, layovers, and the time difference, jet lag hit hard. Don’t plan anything for the first 24-48 hours so you can move at your own leisure and allow body catch up before you try to explore.
2. Entry Requirement
Visa Exemption: Many nationalities (including U.S., Canadian, and most European passports) can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days when arriving by air. If you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa once for 30 more days at immigration offices. Always double-check requirements before traveling—rules can change.
3. Best Time to Visit
Cool Season (Nov–Feb): Best weather, cooler temps, peak travel season. Hot Season (Mar–May): Very hot, but fewer tourists. Rainy Season (Jun–Oct): Lush landscapes (especially in Chiang Mai), lower prices, but expect afternoon downpours. I would avoid Thailand, especially if you plan to hop around between the regions, during Rainy season. Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai) is drier in winter, while the islands have different wet seasons (Gulf islands like Koh Samui can be drier when the Andaman side is wet).
4. Packing & Dress Code
For the most part, you can wear whatever you want throughout Thailand. However, if you plan on visiting Temples your shoulders and knees must be covered. Carry a scarf or buy inexpensive cover-ups locally. The local shops will definitely stop you and force you to buy coverups if you’re dressed inappropriately. And definitely pack comfortable walking shoes—especially for temple visits and markets.
5. Money & Budgeting
The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are everywhere, but charge a withdrawal free. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for street food, tuk-tuks, and markets. Thailand can fit every budget: from $20/day for backpackers to $200+ for luxury travelers.
6. Transportation Tips
- Grab App: The Southeast Asian version of Uber—super convenient for taxis and food delivery.
- Tuk-tuks: Fun, but always agree on a price before hopping in.
- Domestic flights: Cheap and efficient—great for covering long distances quickly. We flew VietJet Air (recommend!) and AirAsia (the equivalent to Spirit airlines).
7. Food & Drinks
- Street food is a must—try pad thai, mango sticky rice, satay skewers, and Thai iced tea.
- Be cautious with spicy levels—Thai “mild” is often hot!
- Tap water is not safe to drink—stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Don’t miss a cooking class!
8. Culture & Etiquette
- Respect the monarchy: Speaking negatively about the royal family is a serious offense.
- Temple etiquette: Remove shoes before entering, dress modestly, and keep voices down.
- The Wai greeting: A slight bow with palms pressed together is polite.
9. Safety & Scams
- Thailand is generally safe, but watch out for common scams (like tuk-tuk drivers offering “free” temple tours that end in jewelry shops). Use official taxi lines and GrabApp at airports. And like any safety general advice, keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas.
10. Beauty & Health
The beauty industry is soooo cheap in Thailand! Services I highly recommend getting done while there: teeth whitening, laser hair removal, laser therapy for acne scars, facials, and going to a head/scalp spa for a thorough cleansing of your scalp.
