Around a decade ago, the question of whether Thailand was cheap didn’t even arise. It was an undisputed fact that Thailand was an inexpensive destination, although it wasn’t as popular as it is today, and the services and amenities were less advanced. But now, things have changed. The variety and quality of experiences in Thailand have improved, but so has the cost of travel. While Thailand is still not as expensive as Europe or North America, it’s no longer as cheap as its neighboring countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, or even Vietnam.
Debunking the Myth
The question of whether Thailand is cheap has taken on a life of its own, thanks to the game of telephone. Many people who pontificate about Thailand haven’t been there in years, so either it was genuinely cheaper when they visited, or they simply forgot about the costs. Additionally, those who find Thailand extremely cheap often compare it to their experiences in Europe or wealthier Asian countries, without considering the truly inexpensive countries in Southeast Asia. So, while Thailand can be relatively cheap, it’s important to remember that those who give Thailand its cheap reputation might not know what they’re talking about.
Breaking Down the Costs
Hotels
Let’s be frank: Thailand offers affordable accommodation. From luxurious five-star properties in Bangkok to lush resorts in Krabi, you get a lot more than what you pay for. On the other end of the spectrum, budget hotels and Airbnb apartments are available for next to nothing, often costing as low as 20 USD per night or even less. And we haven’t even mentioned the negligible costs of staying in hostels across Thailand.
Transportation
Transportation also plays a role in making Thailand a budget-friendly destination. Whether you’re riding the BTS or MRT systems in Bangkok, using ride-hailing apps like Grab, or flying with low-cost airlines such as Thai AirAsia and Thai Smile, getting around Thailand is generally affordable. However, be cautious of taxi monopolies in certain areas like Koh Samui or parts of Phuket, where prices can be exorbitant. Tuk-tuk rides can also be expensive due to their novelty.
Food and Drink
When it comes to food, Thailand can still be considered cheap, as long as you indulge in authentic Thai cuisine. Street food stalls offer classic dishes like khaaw man gai (chicken rice) or pad ga prow gai (fried chicken with holy basil) for as little as 30 or 40 THB per plate. Even in nice Thai restaurants, foreign food, especially non-Asian cuisine, can be expensive. Seafood, especially near upscale resorts in Phuket, Krabi, or the Trat islands, can also come with hefty price tags. As for alcohol, real spirits can be relatively expensive, with cocktails easily costing around 400 Baht or more. (TIP: You can save on your culinary adventures in Thailand by using amazing travel credit cards that offer no transaction fees and rewards with every purchase!)
Activities
Some activities in Thailand may not be as cheap as you expect. However, it’s important to consider the relative prices compared to other countries. For example, ethical excursions like Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai might cost around 100 USD for a half-day, but that cost contributes to the welfare of the animals. On the other hand, activities like scuba diving, although expensive by local standards, are still relatively affordable compared to other countries.
Other Expenditures
Thailand does have some hidden costs that you need to be aware of. For instance, most Thai ATMs charge a transaction fee of about 220 THB (approximately $7-8). Additionally, some businesses add a 2-3% fee when paying with a credit card to protect their profits. It’s also important to sharpen your bargaining skills to avoid paying the so-called “farang (foreigner) price” at places like Bangkok’s Chatuchak Weekend Market.
The Value of the Thai Baht
To determine if Thailand is cheap, we need to consider the value of the Thai baht. Over the years, the currency’s value has fluctuated, influencing prices for travelers. To avoid disappointment, it’s helpful to view the value of the baht as slightly overstated. For example, considering 20 baht as worth a little less than a dollar, 100 baht as $3, and 3,000 THB as 100 USD is a good rule of thumb. Assuming the baht’s value is around 30-33 per US dollar can prevent any major shocks.
Is Thailand a Good Value?
Ultimately, the question is not solely about whether Thailand is cheap, but about the overall value it offers. In many cases, the answer is a resounding yes. Thailand provides excellent value for accommodations, ranging from hotels to guest houses, and mouthwatering street food experiences in Chiang Mai or rooftop dining in Bangkok. Transportation, however, is less straightforward. Locals might consider Bangkok’s BTS and MRT systems expensive relative to their salaries, and low-cost domestic flights in Thailand aren’t drastically cheaper than those in other parts of the world.
Is Thailand still cheap? That’s subjective. However, the value of a trip to Thailand remains high, even when compared to neighboring countries. Cambodia and Vietnam may technically be cheaper, but they also come with more hassles such as scams, traffic accidents, and food-related illnesses. In comparison, Thailand offers a relatively modern and sophisticated experience.
FAQ About the Cost of Travel in Thailand
How much money do you need per day in Thailand?
If you’re willing to stay in budget hotels or hostels, you could get by on 25 USD (around 900 Baht) per day or less. However, most travelers would find a comfortable budget to be at least double that, with 100 USD per person per day guaranteeing a more enjoyable experience while traveling in Thailand.
How much does a meal cost in Thailand?
When it comes to food, especially street food, Thailand remains cheap. You can savor classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai noodles or Khaaw Man Gai chicken rice for as little as 30 Baht (1 USD) per plate, even in the heart of Bangkok.
How much does it cost to vacation in Thailand?
While Thailand may not be as affordable as Vietnam, vacationing in Thailand still offers good value. A two-week trip for two people can cost under $3,000, excluding flights to and from Thailand. With strategic planning, Thailand can be a budget-friendly destination.
The Bottom Line
So, is Thailand cheap to travel? Well, it depends on your definition of “cheap.” These days, it’s difficult to travel comfortably in Thailand without spending a minimum of about 50 USD per person per day. However, when compared to destinations in Europe and North America, Thailand still offers good value for the quality of services and amenities it provides. If you’re looking to plan the ultimate trip to Thailand, without worrying too much about your budget, consider commissioning a custom Thailand itinerary today!