Thailand is a sought-after destination for many travelers, and with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, it’s easy to see why. But one question that often comes up is: Is Thailand expensive? To answer this, we’ve compiled a range of tips and budget advice for visiting Thailand in 2023.
The cost of a trip to Thailand can vary greatly depending on your travel style. Budget-conscious backpackers might spend between $8 – $15 daily on food and the same range for accommodations. On average, a week-long vacation to Thailand for one person may cost around ฿28,531, while a couple can expect to spend about ฿57,063. For a two-week stay, double these amounts.
When traveling with family, costs per person can decrease since children’s tickets are usually cheaper, and hotel rooms can be shared. A high-end travel budget for a family of four could range from $5,301 to $19,167 for a week, considering all daily expenses and premium lodging.
Transportation costs are fairly reasonable, with local bus fares rarely exceeding 30 baht. An all-day ticket can be as low as 150 baht, and overnight buses, such as the route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, can be found for under 600 baht, doubling as a night’s accommodation.
For the budget traveler, you can manage with approximately $30 per day, excluding flights. Hostel dorms are the cheapest accommodation option, around $8 per night. However, if you’re looking to indulge in local brews, the cost of beer like Chang is quite affordable, usually ranging from 70 – 100 baht per bottle when purchased at local convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Imported alcohol tends to be more expensive, so sticking to local options is wise.
Considering transportation, while prices may vary slightly, the class of bus chosen—standard versus VIP with air conditioning—can influence the cost. The VIP options are pricier than the standard class.
For more in-depth information, you can refer to a range of resources: The Broke Backpacker discusses the question of Is Thailand Expensive?; TripSavvy provides insights into How Much Money Is Needed for a Trip to Thailand; NOMADasaurus breaks down a Thailand Trip Cost; Budget Your Trip looks at the Average Price of a Vacation to Thailand; and Champion Traveler offers a guide on How Much Does a Trip to Thailand Cost?. Southeast Asia Backpacker provides a detailed 2023 Travel Budget Breakdown, and Lists by Lukiih compares the best flight deals for a Trip To Thailand Cost.
