Backpacking Thailand is one of the most popular ways to travel to the country. Thailand is the mecca of tourism in Southeast Asia. It is cheap, easy to travel, has a fantastic tourism infrastructure, and a great introduction to the region.
Once you have decided on where you want to go, the things you want to do, and what you want to see, then you need to start planning your transportation, accommodation, and packing list. Not overpacking is vital to any trip to Thailand. Select Your Arrival and Departure Dates The season varies drastically. March through June is the hottest time to visit. The monsoon season starts in May runs through October. If you are planning on going to the Full Moon Party in Thailand you’ll want to head there before rainy season.
During the rainy season, expect a few hours of heavy rain each day. If you plan to travel to Thailand during this time, you will need to pack rain gear. The peak tourist season goes from November to February, which means more tourists and higher prices, but the weather is cooler. The low season is July to October, which means fewer tourists and lower costs. Check If You Need A Visa Most people won’t need to get a visa for Thailand. As many travelers from the USA, Europe, and Asia get a stamp on arrival. There is no fee for the stamp, and it’s valid for 30 days of travel in Thailand.
But it is important to check Thailand’s immigration website to see if you need to apply for a visa before arriving. Plan to Enough Time in Each Place Rushing from city to city will leave you feeling worn out and stressed. Stay three full days in each place. It gives you enough time to see the sights, explore the culture, and relax. For example, if you are traveling for three weeks, then plan on visiting 6 to 7 cities. Any more and you risk getting burned out. Buses are the primary mode of transportation in Thailand. Some of the bus rides over 10 hours. You need to account for this in your itinerary.
Pick Your Accommodation Based on Your Budget
Hostels
Thailand has a big backpacker culture for travelers doing the Southeast Asia circuit, so there are hundreds of hostels across the country. If you are traveling on a budget, then hostels are your best choice. On average, a hostel in Thailand will cost anywhere from 8 to 15 USD for a dorm room.
Many of the hostels are clean, offer free WiFi, lockers, and breakfast. It is important you check out the amenities before booking. The general rule is the more beds in a room, the cheaper the cost per bed. Many of the hostels offer private rooms that will cost anywhere from 25 to 40 USD according to this backpacking Thailand article.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is another affordable way to travel to Thailand. And an excellent way to save money, as it is free most of the time. Couchsurfing lets you meet locals and discover local events. Head to couchsurfing.com to see available couches in the area you will be staying in.
Thailand has a large number of couch surfers, so it is a relatively safe and affordable way to backpack Thailand on a budget.
Hotels
Thailand is affordable, and even budget travelers can find decent hotel rooms for cheap. Although staying at a hotel is still the most expensive option. Hotels are cheaper in the off travel season. Get a credit card that lets you earn miles and points for each purpose of earning free hotel rooms.
How to Get Around Thailand
Bus
Buses are the cheapest and easiest option when traveling in Thailand. There is an extensive network of tourist buses that will take you anywhere you want to go. If you are headed to the islands, they sell the bus/ferry tickets together. Bus tickets will cost between 10 -30 USD the length of the journey. Take night buses. This lets you save on a night of accommodation.
Train
Thailand has a decent train network, as well. Traveling by train is more prevalent in the north of Thailand and is an excellent way to get to the major cities. Trains are more expensive than buses but are a little faster and more comfortable.
Budget Airlines
Another option for getting around Thailand is flying.
This is perfect for people traveling for only a short time, like two to three weeks. Budget airlines are cost-effective but don’t fly everywhere. The best budget airlines are Air Asia and Thai Smile. Look at the terms, fees, and allowances before booking. If you don’t follow their rules, they will raise the price.
Rent A Motorbike
A popular way to travel around the north of Thailand is by motorbike. A bike is a good option if you want to visit the countryside and small villages. You can rent bikes by the day, week, or month and cost as little as 10 USD a day, or 60 USD a month.
Make sure you have the right international driving license, or you get tickets. Before You Go Travel Tips Picking the Right Backpack Make sure to research your backpack. Picking the right backpack will make traveling much easier. For Thailand, you will want a backpack that has an internal frame, adjustable straps, and is water-resistant. Try to avoid picking a huge pack.
With backpacks, less is more. Get a carry on backpack to avoid airline luggage fees. If you want a backpack you can check, it needs to be between 30 to 40 liters.
Pack the Basics
Only bring the basics. This will reduce the weight and keep you organized. If you discover you left something that you need, then buy it on the road. Bring four to five tops, two to three shorts, one pair of pants, one light sweater, and two pairs of socks. You will also need a good pair of sandals, swimming trunks, sunglasses, a scarf, and basic toiletries. Clothes in Thailand are cheap.
You can get a shirt for 3 to 4 USD. This means you can pack less and buy clothes as you travel. Tell Your Bank Your Traveling When banks see a transaction for a foreign country, they often lock the account to protect you. Call your bank and let them know you are traveling to avoid being able to withdraw money.
There are more fees when withdrawing money abroad. Ask about any international ATM fees. Get a card that has free international withdraw. For those of you from the USA, the best option is Charles Schwab.
Get a Passport
You cannot enter Thailand as a foreigner without a passport. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after entering Thailand. Make a photo and electronic copy of your passport just in case it gets lost. Email yourself a copy and keep a picture of your passport on your phone.
Book Your Flights
Start searching for flights a few months in advance, this will help you find the best price. If you are traveling in high season, it is essential to book your accommodation in advance to secure your spot.
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