Tips for a successful budget trip to Thailand - Why spend more for the same fun?

Who on earth doesn’t want to go to Thailand at some or the other point of time. be you a student, bachelor or a honeymoon couple looking for a romantic getaway, Thailand is the first that comes to your mind. 

There are many ways in which you can explore Thailand. also in many kind of budget, this article is dedicated to people who wants to explore Thailand but a limited budget. Personally i feel this is the correct approach of traveling anywhere including the dream destination Thailand.

Here are few point you should take care when you are on a trip to Thailand to save cost, plus you will get to see the real color and flavor of the country,

1. Visit Thailand in Low Season

Traveling between May and November is much cheaper than peak season, Rooms, food and vehicle are often discounted. Also there are fewer tourists to get bothered from, so you’re more likely to feel welcomed and get personal service.

2. Stick to Basic Accommodation

Simple rooms can be available for less than 250 baht a night, or you can share with another bargain hunter to split costs. Dorm rooms are even cheaper and still available in some areas. you can get some good deals online too. so, try your luck.

3. Travel Overnight

You can go a long way for very few baht on overnight trains, and save a few hundred baht by not needing a room for the night. 

4. Use Local Transport

Local buses and, songthaews (shared taxis) go everywhere, if a little slowly at times.  Busses are pretty good in this country and you can bank on it. 

5. Avoid Western/Indian Food

You can buy ten Thai meals for the cost of one pizza in Thailand. Nearly all foreign food is imported at great expense, and it rarely tastes the same as back home anyway.

6. Eat Like the Locals

Thais love food, and you will always be close to a market selling curry and rice, or a small restaurant making Thai food to order. Roadside stalls are everywhere, especially at night, and it’s all very cheap.

7. Don’t Leave Tips

Tipping is not expected in local restaurants, so don’t worry about it. Thais rarely tip.

8. Buy big bottles of water

Buy big bottles rather than small bottles fro 7-eveven they are much cheaper than smaller bottles that you buy from hotels.

9.  Buy  Alcohol from supermarket

In supermarkets beer are for one third of the price. It can be really expensive in bars. check rates before ordering. 

10. Make the Most of Free Entertainment

It is not all about money in thailand, Enjoy the sights and sounds of Thailand all around you! Thais exercise at local parks, often there are free aerobics groups, basketball, tennis, tagraw, or some performance going on – especially in the northeast around the holidays. 

11. Buy Clothes and Personal Items in Thailand

Clothes are very cheap and completely suitable for the hot climate. Toiletries will be much cheaper than back home.  Keep in mind you may not find the exact brand you’re used to, but with an open mind you’ll find something that works. wear clothes there and dump it while coming back. 

12. Consider Bringing Specialized Equipment

If you are planning to do more recreational activities, it could be better to bring your own gear from home rather than renting it. Much of what Thailand has is made in China and not the same quality you’re probably used to. Bring what you can’t do without.

13. Watch Your Money

Keep track of what you spend so you can see where it is going and what you are buying unnecessarily. on the other hand, your trip should be enjoyable and not crippled by obsessive budgeting. You can keep a check by writing down your expenses.

14. Avoid Unnecessary Money Charges

If you use a bank card and are charged a flat fee for withdrawing money, make fewer but larger withdrawals. If you have to pay a fee each time you exchange a Travelers Check or cash, order larger denominations before you come. you can read about this in our other blog. 

15. Haggle Over Prices

Bargaining for some items is expected in Thailand. Anything from a market can be discounted. Room prices can be negotiated, especially in low season or for longer stays.

16. Do Your Own Laundry

A packet of washing powder and a few minutes each day is all that you need. If you buy loose, light clothing here, it will dry in minutes in the hot sun. Buy a sarong here to use instead of a heavy towel.

17. Be Aware of Motoring Regulations

This is also a safety tip, Bring an international driving license with you and always carry it when driving. Always wear seat belts in cars and helmets on motorbikes, or you will be risking an on the spot fine. 

18. Obey the Local Laws

Don't be that tourist who litters, Littering is an offense in Thailand, and people have been fined for dropping cigarette butts on the ground. Police will pay more attention to the actions of a foreigner, so be aware especially in Bangkok.

19. Don’t Get Scammed or Robbed

A detailed discussion about this is doe in our pervious post. getting trapped in this can make you bankrupt here, forget saving. so be careful when talking or interacting with strangers. 

So now that you are clear on how to save and have an amazing budget trip, i am sure you are heading to Thailand. Most of the tourist who come here forget all the tips as soon as they land to Thailand, don't be that tourist; be an explorer!