20 Things to Know Before Going to Thailand (2026 Guide)

Culture & Etiquette

1. Respect the Monarchy

Thailand has strict lèse-majesté laws. Never disrespect the king, queen, or royal family — even jokingly. This includes stepping on Thai currency (which has the king's image). Penalties can include imprisonment.

2. Remove Shoes Indoors

Always remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some shops. Look for shoes at the entrance — if you see a pile, take yours off too.

3. Dress Modestly at Temples

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. No shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. Some temples provide sarongs for rent if you're underdressed.

4. Don't Touch Anyone's Head

The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. Never touch someone's head, even children.

5. Use Your Right Hand

Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, eating, and handshakes. The left hand is considered unclean.

6. The Wai Greeting

The traditional Thai greeting is the "wai" — pressing palms together at chest level and slightly bowing. Return a wai when someone offers one. The higher the hands, the more respect shown.

Money & Payments

7. Cash is King

Many places don't accept cards, especially street food stalls, local shops, and small restaurants. Always carry cash (Thai Baht). ATMs are everywhere but charge 220 THB (~$6) per withdrawal.

8. Negotiate at Markets

Bargaining is expected at markets and with tuk-tuk drivers. Start at 50-60% of the asking price and negotiate from there. Fixed prices at malls, restaurants, and 7-Eleven.

9. Tipping Culture

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Round up restaurant bills or leave 10-15%. Tip massage therapists 50-100 THB. No need to tip tuk-tuk or taxi drivers.

10. Exchange Money Wisely

Don't exchange at airports (worst rates). Use SuperRich or Vasu Exchange in Bangkok for the best rates. Withdraw from ATMs only when needed to minimize fees.

Getting Around

11. Use Grab Instead of Tuk-Tuks

Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) is safer and cheaper than tuk-tuks for most trips. Tuk-tuks often overcharge tourists. If you do take a tuk-tuk, negotiate the price before getting in.

12. Bangkok Has Great Public Transport

BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway cover most of Bangkok. Buy a Rabbit card for convenience. Boats on the Chao Phraya River are cheap and scenic.

13. Domestic Flights Are Cheap

AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air offer flights between cities for $20-80. Book early for the best prices. Bangkok to Chiang Mai: 1.5 hours by air vs 12 hours by train.

14. Songthaews Are Budget-Friendly

Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are the cheapest way to get around in smaller cities. Just flag one down, tell the driver where you're going, and pay 10-30 THB.

Food & Dining

15. Street Food is Safe (and Amazing)

Thai street food is generally safe. Eat at busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid stalls that have been sitting with food out for long. Pad thai from a street cart: $1.50.

16. "Thai Spicy" is VERY Spicy

When Thais say "spicy," they mean it. If you're not used to Thai heat, say "mai pet" (not spicy) or "pet nit noi" (a little spicy). You can always add chili later.

17. 7-Eleven is Your Best Friend

7-Eleven in Thailand is incredible. Cheap drinks, snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and even toasties (grilled sandwiches). There's one on every corner.

18. Try Local Dishes

Must-try: Pad Thai, Som Tum (green papaya salad), Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Massaman Curry, Mango Sticky Rice, and Thai iced tea.

Safety & Health

19. Thailand is Generally Safe

Thailand is safe for tourists. The main risks are petty theft (pickpockets in crowded areas), scams (tuk-tuk overcharging, gem scams), and motorbike accidents. Avoid drinking tap water.

20. Get Travel Insurance

Healthcare in Thailand is excellent but expensive for foreigners. A basic travel insurance plan costs $30-80 for a week and covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

Practical Tips

• SIM cards: Buy at the airport. AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove offer tourist SIMs for $5-10 with data.
• WiFi: Available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
• Power outlets: Thailand uses Type A, B, C, and O outlets. Bring a universal adapter.
• Language: English is spoken in tourist areas. Learn basic Thai: "sawadee" (hello), "khop khun" (thank you), "mai pen rai" (no problem).
• Water: Don't drink tap water. Buy bottled water (cheap everywhere).
• Time zone: UTC+7 (ICT). No daylight saving time.

Frequently Asked Questions