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Introduction to Preparing a Trip to Thailand
There is truly so much to see and do in Thailand. Thailand is home to high mountains, lively cities, beautiful beaches, steep cliffs, lush rainforests, and much more. Thai people are nice, the cuisine is delicious, and the activities are limitless.
Preparing a trip to Thailand is important. There are several items to pack and tasks to do before the departure date. In order to be more confident in the trip preparation, it is recommended to check out these tips and tricks before entering in Thailand.
Knowing essential information ahead of time can certainly make the trip more fun and smoother, and maybe save visitors both time and money.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Preparing a Trip to Thailand
- When to Visit Thailand
- Choosing an Airline to Thailand
- Tourist Visas and Passports to Thailand
- Finances in Thailand – Currency, Cash, Credit Card and More
- Internet Access in Thailand
- Electricity in Thailand – Plugs, Sockets & Mains Voltage
- Conclusion to Preparing a Trip to Thailand
Hua Lumphong Railway Station in Bangkok
When to Visit Thailand
Although different sources identify Thailand’s tourist seasons differently, the following is a simplified classification of high and low tourist season periods in Thailand:
- High Season: November to April
- Low Season: May to October
Many people visit Thailand between November and early April, when the heavy rain has stopped and the skies have cleared. During this period, the days are pleasant, which is ideal for a day at the beach or seeing the many heritage sites. From April through June, the heat can become unpleasant, and the rainy season returns.
Nevertheless, Thailand is a large country that stretches more than 1,600 km (above 1,000 miles) from north to south, thus circumstances will vary depending on where each visitor is in the country.
Choosing an Airline to Thailand
Thailand has a large number of airlines. Thailand is one of the most visited countries in the world. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), the country’s main airport, is one of Southeast Asia’s largest international airports, hosting many international airlines. This makes visiting Thailand convenient for travelers from all around the world.
It is also quite convenient for visitors to take domestic flights to different regions of Thailand. Each region of Thailand has its own regional airport and flight options. In addition to regional airports, there are also smaller airports with flights mostly from Bangkok.
Choosing an airline to Thailand is another activity to complete during the trip preparation. From budget to luxury, there are many airlines to choose from.
Suvaranbhumi Airport (BKK) in Samut Prakan
Tourist Visas and Passports to Thailand
It is convenient to visit Thailand. People from many countries are able to visit the country without a visa thanks to the Visa on Arrival or Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme. Visitors can stay for up to 30 or 45 days under certain restrictions.
It is vital to know that while in the country, a visitor cannot work or conduct business. If a person is coming for a reason other than pleasure, they must consider alternative visa options. Visitors who realize that 30 or 45 days is not enough for the trip can apply for a Tourist Visa at a Thai Embassy or Consulate.
Certain documents are necessary when applying for a tourist visa, and an application fee is required to pay. The documentation and fees are subject to change at any moment and without notification, so it is recommended to check with the local Thai Embassy or Consulate before planning the application.
Finances in Thailand – Currency, Cash, Credit Card and More
Thailand’s official currency is the Thai Baht (THB) and 1 Baht is equal to 100 Satang (Thailand’s official currency sub-unit). Coins are available in the following denominations: 1, 2, 5, and 10 Baht, as well as 25, and 50 Satang. Banknotes are issued in the following denominations: 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Baht.
Bringing home currency and using one of the several Thailand currency exchange services to acquire Baht is a recommended concept of an overall money preparation while visiting Thailand. This will save visitors money from ATM fees and possibly from the bank card issuer. While it may be more convenient to exchange currency before landing, visitors are unlikely to find a better rate than exchanging it in Thailand.
In Thailand, Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted. American Express cards are only accepted in major supermarkets, luxury restaurants and hotels. Other credit card issuers such as Discover, Union Pay, and JCB are less accepted. Credit cards are widely used in urban areas such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, but less so in rural areas.
Internet Access in Thailand
Traveling in the current day typically means that it is not difficult to find free Wi-Fi hotspots. However, if the plan is to visit rural areas or smaller towns in Thailand, it may not always be simple to find freely available internet. Thus, it is recommended to rent a pocket WI-FI or buy a local SIM card.
AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC are the three main mobile operators in Thailand. These mobile operators have good coverage over the country, offer high-speed mobile Internet, and special packages for travelers (often known as “Tourist SIM card”). SIM cards can be purchased online and pick up at the airport. Another option to purchase it directly at a local convenience store after arriving in Thailand (but this can be a problem if there is no helper around).
Internet connection in Thailand is fast and has great coverage. While the mobile internet speed in Thailand is about average, its fixed broadband internet speed is among the best in the world when compared to other countries (according to Ookla). So, there is no need to be concerned about internet connectivity when traveling in Thailand.
Electricity in Thailand – Plugs, Sockets & Mains Voltage
Thailand currently uses 220V alternating current (AC) outlets at 50Hz. Thai electrical sockets will accept any device with the following plug types:
- Type A: Two flat parallel pins
- Type B: Two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin
- Type C: Two round pins
- Type O: Two round pins and a grounding pin
Globally, electricity supply can range from 100V to 240V. It is extremely risky to operate an electrical appliance rated at a voltage different than the supply. Because the voltage varies by country, visitors may need to utilize a voltage converter or transformer when in Thailand. The regular operation of an electrical appliance may be impacted if the frequency is different.
By inspecting the appliance rating plate, visitors may determine whether a converter or transformer is required. If the body of the device or its power supply says ‘INPUT: 110-240V,’ then no converter or transformer is required (only a travel adaptor).
A standard plug socket in Thailand
Conclusion to Preparing a Trip to Thailand
There are several things to consider before traveling to Thailand. Regardless of whether you’re first-time or return visitor, it’s critical to do the research ahead of time to guarantee a stress-free experience. After you’ve checked the boxes, feel free to look at further tips and tricks in planning a trip to Thailand:
