BACKPACKING THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE FOR 2019

Thailand is ​the​ travel hub of ​Southeast Asia​. Most people coming into the region fly into
Bangkok and make that their base for doing the circuit around Southeast Asia. With its
lush jungles, famed beaches, world-class diving, amazing food, friendly and cheap
prices, Thailand is by far my favorite country in the world!

I’ve been coming to the country since 2005, lived there for 2 years, and always seem
pulled back to it. It’s an easy country to travel and you can meet a lot of other people
there. You’re never alone!

The country is a well-worn destination on the backpacking trail and everything is

convenient and easy. However, there are still many off the beaten path destinations
aways from the crowds and the prices they bring.

Overall, Thailand speaks for itself. When you hear its name, you already think about
beaches, beauty, jungles, and food. And your thoughts are spot on.

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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Thailand

1. Visit Bangkok
This crazy city​ is a must-see. Explore temples, palaces, amazing
markets, shops, one of the craziest nightlife scenes in the world,
and of course, amazing Thai food. At first, I didn’t like this place
but now it’s one of the places I feel most at home in. I love this
city and return frequently.

2. Adventure around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai​ ​is an old city filled with temples, food markets, regular
markets, amazing food, and a chill atmosphere. It’s a good launching pad
for jungle treks into the area and there is a nearby elephant sanctuary.

3. Hike in Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park​, ​located about 2.5 hours north of Bangkok, is one
of Thailand’s best national parks. It’s truly amazing — visually stunning,
empty of tourists, filled with lush flora and fauna, and even a few wild
elephants. Stay at the Greenleaf Guesthouse for the best
tour/accommodation deals in the area.

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4. Throw water during Songkran

Between April 13-15th, the Thai celebrate Thai New Year by holding an
enormous, three-day water fight.​ ​Songkran​ ​is meant to wash away the old
and begin the year anew. It’s an unforgettable experience! Be prepared to
get wet everywhere you go those days (and keep your electronics sealed
in plastic).​ ​Here’s a glimpse of the festivities.

5. Go to Ko Lanta
While Ko Lanta has become more developed in recent years, it’s still a
relevately paradise compared to its developed neighbors. Wide, white
sand beaches, cheap food, and gorgeous sunsets, great caves,
snorkeling, diving, – this is one of my favorite spots in the country.

Other Things to See and Do-

1. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho
Thailand’s royal palace was built at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I and
is the official residence of the current monarch (though he doesn’t live there
anymore; now it’s just used for ceremonies). It’s a striking place filled with
numerous temples, including Wat Pra Kaeo, which houses the 15th-century
Emerald Buddha. Nearby Wat Pho is famous for two things: a larger-than-life
golden reclining Buddha statue and a very relaxing massage school.

2. Visit Khao Sok National Park

Located in the south of Thailand, ​Khao Sok National Park​ is constantly rated as one
of the best in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling
rivers, and a glistening lake. You’ll find semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife,
walking paths, and incredible sunsets. Park entrance costs 200 THB.

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3. Hop around the ancient capitals

Between Chiang Mai and Bangkok are Thailand’s three ancient capitals –
Sukhothai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya. Visiting them on your way north is a unique way
to head from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You’ll get to learn about ancient Thailand and
see rural life at its best. My favorite is Ayutthaya.

4. Relax on tropical islands

Thailand has a million and one beautiful tropical islands. Some are overdeveloped,
while others only have a single bungalow on them. You’ll find everything here.
Some of the best islands here are – Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang,
Ko Tao, Ko Jum, ​Ko Lipe​, Ko Phi Phi, Phuket, the Similan Islands, and Ko Samui.

5. Partake in the Full Moon Party

If you like partying, there’s no better party in the world than the famous ​Full Moon
Party​. The Full Moon Party is a giant festival-like party with a lot of drinking,
dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different
music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with
people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling
glow-in-the-dark face paint. Sure, it is super touristy but that doesn’t mean it’s not a
lot of fun and it’s as much a part of Thailand as anything else.

6. Go jungle trekking
There are some great jungle trekking opportunities in northern Thailand. Be sure to
go on a multi-day hike. The shorter hikes aren’t as good and the hill tribes you visit
are like visiting a rural impoverished Disney World. The biggest departure points
are Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Don’t book any tours ahead of time, you can book
these sorts of outings through the hostel or hostel you’re staying in closeby. If you
book online ahead of time, you will pay more.

7. Go scuba diving in the Similan Islands

Scuba diving here is a popular activity because of the crystal clear waters and
majestic sea life. The cheapest place to learn is on the island of Ko Tao, which
caters specifically for dive trips. Most people don’t go unless they’re planning on
diving. While you can dive all over the country, the Similan Islands offer the best
diving. If you dive the Similan Islands, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, and the
reef houses plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 3,700 THB.

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8. Learn to cook
Thai food is delicious and it’s relatively easy to cook. All over the country, you’ll find
places to teach you, though the best are in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Even if you
don’t plan to cook back home, at least you get to spend a day making and eating
scrumptious food.

9. Explore the Khmer temples in Isaan

There are many temples built ​throughout the region​, all along the ancient roads
connecting Angkor to the other villages. The largest of these is Phimai, located at
the end of the ancient highway. In the Buriram province are two other magnificent
Khmer temples only a few kilometers apart. Phanom Rung built on top of a hill and
Muang Tum which is at the base of the hill.

10. Get off the trail in Isaan

One of the most under visited areas of the country, ​Isaan​ is mostly a land of farms
and villages. This is a great place to escape the frantic tourist atmosphere of the
rest of the country. It is not overrun by tourists, and you get a chance to experience
Thai culture in a different, more personal way. I think it’s one of the most interesting
places in the country.

11. Take the day train

Taking the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is not only cheaper but a much
better way to see the countryside than the night train. Sure, you waste a day but
you see the countryside, you experience how Thais take the train, and you’re
treated to vendors coming off and on every stop selling meals for 15 THB. The day
trip remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a
good book!

12. The Elephant Nature Park

Sure you can come to Thailand and ride an elephant, but so many of them in this
country suffer from abuse. An even better way to get up-close-and-personal to the
animals is to volunteer at the Elephant Conservation Center near Chiang Mai. A
one-day visit costs 2,500 THB for adults.

13. Admire Wat Doi Suthep

This stunning Buddhist temples lies in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, 10 miles out of
Chiang Mai. A tram or a trek up 300 steps will take you to the summit of Doi

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Suthep, where the glittering gold temple spire awaits you. The temple dates back to
the 14th century and holds rare relics of Buddha. It’s really is too beautiful of a view
to miss, so don’t leave Chiang Mai without visiting Wat Doi Suthep. Admission is 30
THB. It’s open from 6am-6pm.

14. Visit the Golden Triangle

The point where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River is known as the Golden
Triangle. You can take a boat and head to the Golden Triangle Park, or check out
some of the many Buddha statues and markets.

15. Ko Phi Phi

This is one​ of the most popular tourist islands in Thailand. From the famous of
Maya Bay (made famous in ​The Beach​) to the monkeys on the aptly named
Monkey Beach to the diving and nightlife, there are reasons people flock here.
Destroyed by the tsunami in 2004, the island has been rebuilt and developed to an
even greater extent than before.

16. Ko Lipe
Located in southern Thailand, this semi-off the map island is one of my favorite
places in the world. Here on ​Ko Lipe​, the super friendly locals bring in the daily
catch for amazing seafood. The beaches are beautiful, the water warm, and the
island cheap. I came for three days and then lived here for a month. In the last few
years, it has become very developed and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be
but it’s still way less developed than many other destinations in Thailand. Moreover,
you’re near a pristine and undeveloped national marine park where you can snorkel
and enjoy some beaches to yourself!

17. Shop at the floating markets

Thailand is full of markets. Perhaps the most whimsical of these are the floating
markets, which can be found throughout the country. Some of the best are
Damnoen Saduak, in Ratchaburi, and the Taling Chan Weekend Floating Market in
Bangkok. You’ll find rickety boats piled high with colorful goods and eats. You’ll get
plenty of great photos! (Although it’s become majorly touristy to go to the floating
markets, you’ll not want to miss a morning shopping from boat to boat.)

18. Backpack in Kanchanaburi Province

Here you’ll find a lush forest perfect for trekking, though the history of this area is

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rather dark. The infamous Death Railway is located here, linking Burma and
Myanmar, which were constructed during WWII by prisoners of war. This is also
where you will find the Bridge on the River Kwai, built using POW labor and the
subject of a both a film and a book. While it is a haunting reminder, it is an essential
part of Thailand’s history.

19. Motorbike through Northern Thailand

Around the Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai areas, there are lots of great routes. Many
people rent bikes and tour the scenery. You can take a day trip, or you can take a
couple of days – whatever suits your schedule. The Mai Hong Son Province offers
a great loop that you can do starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai. ​Note:​ Make
sure if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it and never (ever)
drink and drive.

20. Relax in Pai

Pai​ has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great
place to escape some of the craziness of your larger cities. It is a true backpackers
town, located in Northern Thailand. It is nestled in rolling green mountains and
surrounded by waterfalls and incredible hiking trails. Be sure to take a day trip to
the Tham Lot Caves, where you can take a stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot
springs on your way there. Stay on the outskirts town in a lovely little bungalow, rent
a bike, traverse the hills, and bathe in the cool waterfalls.

21. Go to Phuket
This island​ is the biggest destination for tourism in Thailand. You’ll find great
beaches and amazing activities this island, and if you stay away from Patong
Beach, you can avoid most of the over-development and crowds. Phuket draws a
lot of tourists, and if you really want to enjoy the area, get out of the main spots. 

Typical Costs
Accommodation​ – Thailand is very cheap, though the north is far cheaper than
Bangkok and the southern islands. You can find cheap guesthouses for as little 300
THB (9 USD) per night in cities and 200 THB (6 USD) per night in the countryside,
though in the big cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok, rooms start at about 400 THB (12
USD) per night. On the islands or for a nicer room with air-conditioner, expect to pay

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600 THB (18 USD) and up per night. Basic bungalows cost the same. Hotels start at
around 1,350 THB (41 USD) per night and go up from there. Big resorts on the islands
start at 1,700 THB (15 USD) per night for a bungalow on the beach. Dorm rooms, which
are increasingly widespread throughout the country, range from 100-150 THB per night.
Airbnb is also growing in Thailand and a good amount of cities have a nice selection. A
shared room starts around 350 THB (11 USD) per night and renting a full apartment
starts around 700 THB (21 USD) per night.

In Thailand, it’s actually usually cheaper to book your accommodations online via
websites like Booking.com and Agoda than to show up in person. While some places
allow you to negotiate rates, most places don’t (unless you are booking long term). The
online booking websites offer discounts far better than what you’ll get offered if you just
show up, so always book online if you can!

Food​ – Food is really cheap in Thailand. Street food costs as little as 20 THB (0.60
USD), though on average you’ll spend about 35-50 THB (1.05-1.50 USD) per meal if
you want something really filling. If you stick to the local street food, you can eat for
around 120-170 THB (4-5 USD) a day. Most western dishes (burgers, pizza, pasta, etc)
cost between 170-340 THB (5-10 USD), though they can be higher in the fancier
western establishments. Since food is so cheap, there’s no point in grocery shopping
unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Visit each city guide for
specific food recommendations in each place!

Knowing that their target customers are primarily tourists, Western food venues can be
pricey compared to Thai food. Also, some of the ingredients need to be imported, which
contributes to the higher costs. Most Western food also pales in comparison to its
original so it’s best to skip it altogether. I mean, you didn’t come all this way to have a
crappy burger or pizza, right?

Activities​ – Day tours cost 500-1,200 THB (15-36 USD) depending on the activity.
Jungle trekking costs 1,000-1,685 THB (30-50 USD) per day. Keep in mind, you have
more bargaining power if you go with a group. Most parks and national museums cost
between 50-100 THB (1.50-3 USD) to get into (as a non-Thai, you’ll always pay a higher
rate). A PADI dive certification course (very popular in Thailand) costs around 10,000
THB (300 USD), but often includes accommodation.

Always book your tours and activities when you arrive. Stick to travel agents who are
selling on the ground (they’re easy to find, and your guesthouse will probably have

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someone). If the first travel agent won’t negotiate with you, move on to the next.
Booking tours online is always more expensive.

Backpacking Thailand Suggested Budgets 

How much does it cost to visit Thailand?

If you’re backpacking Thailand, plan to budget between 825–1150 THB (25–35 USD)
per day. This range will get you your own room (fan only) with a shared bathroom (or a
dorm room on the lower end), food from the street stalls, a couple of drinks per day, a
few tours here and there, and local transportation.

If you’re spending more time on the islands where things tend to be more expensive,
budget towards the higher end or even upwards of 1330 THB (40 USD) a day. On a
budget of around 1,650 THB (50 USD) per day, you would be able to fly between some
destinations, eat more delicious seafood dinners and international meals, take more
tours and activities you wanted, sleep in air-conditioned rooms, and drink more.

If you’re looking to stay in Western hotels or expensive resorts, eat mostly Western food
or in tourist areas, drink a lot, do a lot of tours, and fly a lot, you should budget
3,300–5,000 THB (100–150 USD) per day. After that, the sky is the limit.

 
(Luxury transit and attraction options might include car rentals and private tours, while mid-range might
include a scooter rental and organized tours.) 

Money Saving Tips

Thailand is an inexpensive country and it is hard to overspend. However, there are a
few things that will blow your budget (such as alcohol, tours, and trips to the islands). If

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you’re on a really tight budget (or just want to cut costs), here’s how to save even more
money during your visit.

1. Go local​ – The easiest way to save money in Thailand is to simply live like
a local. Take local buses, eat street food, and drink local beer. The average
Thai lives on a less than 7,750 THB (233 USD) per month in Bangkok, and
on even less in the country side. If you stay at cheap guesthouses and eat
street food, you can spend as little as 335 THB (10 USD) per day.
2. Eat street food​ – Speaking of street food, don’t be afraid to eat it. It’s safe
— sometimes it’s even safer than restaurant food. If it wasn’t, Thai people
wouldn’t be packed in the food stalls each day. You’ll find the best of
Thailand’s food on the street and it will cost you a fraction of what you pay
at a restaurant.
3. Take advantage of happy hour​ – Thailand’s many happy hours have
half-priced drinks and 2-for-1 specials.
4. Buy beer at 7-Eleven​ – Buying beer at Thailand’s ubiquitous 7-Elevens
and drinking outside will save you quite a bit on your bar tab. A beer in
7-Eleven is about 35 THB (1.05 USD), while the same beer will cost
100-170 THB (3-5 USD) in a restaurant or bar.
5. Don’t book any tours before you arrive​ – Want to take a cooking class?
Go zip-lining? Trek in the jungle? Dive? Wait until you get into Thailand to
book anything. Travel agencies are located all over the tourist areas,
looking to sell their tours. Time to brush up on your negotiation skills.
You’re able to purchase these tours online before you arrive, but you’ll be
paying a lot more!
6. Couchsurf​ – Nothing’s cheaper than sleeping for free. Couchsurfing
connects you with locals who will give you not only a free place to stay, but
also a local tour guide who can introduce you to all the great places to see.
7. Stay in hostels​ – Hostels are both an economical and social choice for
Thailand. There are tons to choose from, especially in the really touristy
areas of Thailand. Bring some earplugs and prepare to save a lot of money!
8. Pack a water bottle​ – A water bottle with a purifier will come particularly in
handy in Southeast Asia. My preferred bottle is ​LifeStraw​ ($49.99).

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Where to Stay in Thailand

Looking for accommodation in Thailand? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in
Thailand. (For more suggestions, check out the specific city guides we have.)

● Green House Hostel​ (Bangkok)

● Mad Monkey Hostel​ (Bangkok)
● The So Hostel​ (Chiang Mai)
● Julie Guesthouse​ (Chiang Mai)
● Pooh’s​ (Ko Lipe)
● Koh Lipe Backpackers Hostel​ (Koh Lipe)
● Green Leaf​ (Khao Yai)
● Pineapple Guesthouse​ (Phuket)
● Patong Backpacker Hostel​ (Phuket)
● Hi-Ayutthaya Youth Hostel​ (Ayutthaya)
● Asleep Hostel & More​ (Kanchanaburi)
● Balcony Party Hostel​ (Krabi)
● Noom Guesthouse​ (Lopburi)
● The Famous Pai Circus Hostel​ (Pai)
● Old City Guesthouse​ (Sukhothai)
● Mut Mee Garden Guest House​ (Isaan)
● Lonely Beach Resort​ (Ko Chang)
● Sonya Guesthouse​ (Ko Lanta)
● Goodtime Beach Backpackers​ (Ko Phangan)
● Freedom Hostels @Phi Phi​ (Ko Phi Phi)
● Samui Hostel​ (Ko Samui)

How to Get Around Thailand

Like everything in Thailand, transportation is also cheap. Local buses cost as little as 8
THB (0.22 USD) per trip, the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost 15-50 THB (0.45-1.50
USD) per trip and metered taxi rides are usually 60-100 THB (1.80-3 USD) each.
Tuk-tuks are un-metered and generally more expensive, costing 100-235 THB (3-7.06

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USD) per ride. Motorbike taxis (in orange vests) are available all over the country with
short trips costing about 35 THB (1.05 USD), but you need to negotiate the price.

Trains in Thailand tend to be a slow but scenic option to get around. Taking the train is
a genuine Thai experience, making the journey as much a part of your trip as the
destination. While they may not be as quick, the trains are relatively comfortable and
cheap, and safer than traveling by road. There is a new Bangkok–Vientiane train that
will get you to Laos with ease. Taking the train is also a convenient way to travel
between Bangkok, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.

Train service around the country is cheap – day trains cost as little as 50 THB (1.50
USD). Night trains start at 575 THB (17 USD) for second-class without air-conditioning.
Boats to/from the islands cost between 250-475 THB (7.50-14 USD). Coach buses are
a great way to get around the country. For example, a bus ride from Bangkok to Chiang
Mai costs 550-700 THB (16-21 USD) and a bus ride from Bangkok to Phuket costs
500-1,000 THB (15-30 USD).

Always stick to the metered taxis, otherwise you’ll get charged an overpriced ride. When
it comes to tuk-tuks, be sure to agree on a price before you take off. Drivers are very
friendly, but if you’re going to act like a naïve tourist, they will take advantage of you. I
generally try to avoid tuk-tuks, but for very short distances they can be fun. (Taxis that
put the meter on will almost always be cheaper in the end.)

Flights around the country generally cost between 1464-6656 THB (44-200 USD) one
way when you book at least two months in advance. Flights to the islands tend to be
higher in price than flying between large cities like Bangkok and Thailand.

Buses in Thailand are incredibly cheap. The fare for city buses start at around 7 THB
(0.22 USD)! For intercity travel, you’ll pay more for better services like sleeper buses
and air-conditioning. The distance you’re traveling also makes a difference. For
example, a budget bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai would take you 10 hours and cost
about 699 THB (21 USD), while Bangkok to Ko Chang would take seven hours and cost
about 600 THB (18 USD). A 3-4 hour first-class bus journey from Bangkok to
Kanchanaburi is around just 100 THB (3 USD).

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When to go to Thailand

The best time of year to visit Thailand is between November to February.

The high season (cool/dry) is from November to March. Bangkok is “coolest”

during this time (but still averaging a hot 29ºC/85°F), and it’s also the driest. If
you plan on being in the north during this time, temperatures can drop quickly
in the evenings. Bring warm clothing!

Shoulder season is from April to June, and it is HOT. Temperatures can be

unbearable for those who are not use to them. Monsoon hits the northern area
at the end of May. The low season is the rainy season, from July to October.
Rainfall can be dramatic – ranging from light showers to major flooding. June
and August have the heaviest rains, but things wind down during October.
You might still get some afternoon showers, but October is also generally a
good time to visit.

When to go to Thailand

Thailand is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel – even if you’re

traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks are
uncommon. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of
crime here. There are some common scams around like unmetered taxis but
for the most part, this is a safe place to travel. People are nice and helpful and
you’re unlikely to get into trouble. The people who do tend to be involved with
drinking or drugs or sex tourism.

For tips on specific scams, read this ​article on the 14 major travel scams to
avoid.

Remember to always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop
the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there.
You have every right to remove yourself from the situation. Make copies of

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your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your
itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it here!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel
insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and
cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I
never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

I use ​World Nomads​ when I travel.

Thailand Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel to Thailand. They are included
here because they consistently find deals, offer world-class customer service and great
value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the ones I use the most
and are always the starting points in my search for travel deals.

● Momondo​ – This is my favorite booking site. I never book a flight without

checking here first.
● Skyscanner​ – Skyscanner is another great flight search engline which
searches a lot of different airlines, including many of the budget carriers
that larger sites miss. While I always start with Momondo, I use this site too
as a way to compare prices.
● Airbnb​ – Airbnb is a great accommodation alternative for connecting with
homeowners who rent out their homes or apartments. (If you’re new to
Airbnb, ​get $35 off your first stay!​)
● Hostelworld​ – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there, with
the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
● Agoda​ – Other than Hostelworld an Airbnb, Agoda is the best hotel
accommodation site for Asia.
● Intrepid Travel​ – If you want to do a group tour around Southern Asia, go
with Intrepid Travel. They offer good small group tours that use local
operators and leave a small environmental footprint. If you go on a tour with

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anyone, go with them. And, as a reader of this site, you’ll get exclusive
discounts when you click the link!
● STA Travel​ – A good company for those under 30 or for students, STA
Travel offers discounted airfare as well as travel passes that help you save
on attractions.
● Grassroots Volunteering​ – For volunteering, Grassroots Volunteering
compiles a list of good local volunteer organizations that keep the money
within the community.
● World Nomads​ – I buy all my travel insurance from World Nomads. They
have great customer service, competitive prices, and in-depth coverage.
I’ve been using them since I started traveling in 2003. Don’t leave home
without it!

Thailand Gear and Packing Guide

What’s the best backpack for traveling Thailand? If it’s your first time in Thailand,
knowing what to pack can be a little daunting. In this section, I’ll give you my suggestion
for the best travel backpack – and tips on what to pack.

The Best Backpack for Thailand 

I recommend the ​REI Flash 45 Pack​. The pack is light and comfy, the padding is thick,
it’s front loading, and it fits perfectly in an airplane’s overhead bin.

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Size:​ 45-47L

Straps:​ Compression technology pulls the pack’s load up and inwards so that the
pack is closer to your center of gravity

Features:​ Removable top lid, large pocket at the front, hydration compatible, 3D
contoured hip belt

If you want something smaller, refer to my article on ​how to choose the best travel
backpack​ for more.

What to Pack in Thailand

Clothes

● 1 pair of jeans (heavy and not easily dried, but I like them; a good
alternative is khaki pants)
● 1 pair of shorts
● 1 bathing suit
● 6 T-shirts

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● 1 long-sleeved T-shirt
● 1 pair of flip-flops
● 1 pair of sneakers
● 8 pairs of socks (I always end up losing half)
● 7 pairs of boxer shorts (I’m not a briefs guy!)
● 1 toothbrush
● 1 tube of toothpaste
● 1 razor
● 1 package of dental floss
● 1 small bottle of shampoo
● 1 small bottle of shower gel
● 1 towel
● Deodorant

Small Medical Kit (safety is important!!!)

● Band-Aids
● Hydrocortisone cream
● Antibacterial cream
● Eyedrops
● Earplugs
● Doctor-prescribed antibiotics
● Tylenol
● Hand sanitizer​ (germs = sick = bad holiday)

Miscellaneous

● A key or combination lock​ (safety first)

● Zip-lock bags (keeps things from leaking or exploding)
● Plastic bags (great for laundry)
● Universal charger/adaptor​ (this applies to everyone)
● LifeStraw​ (a water bottle with a purifier)

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Female Travel Packing List
I’m not a woman so I don’t know what a woman wears, but Kristin Addis, our solo
female travel guru, wrote this list as an addition to the basics above:

Clothing

● 1 swimsuit
● 1 sarong
● 1 pair of stretchy jeans (they wash and dry easily)
● 1 pair of leggings (if it’s cold, they can go under your jeans, otherwise with
a dress or shirt)
● 2-3 long-sleeve tops
● 2-3 T-shirts
● 3-4 spaghetti tops
● 1 light cardigan

Toiletries

● 1 dry shampoo spray & talc powder (keeps long hair grease free in
between washes)
● 1 hairbrush
● Makeup you use
● Hair bands & hair clips
● Feminine hygiene products (you can opt to buy there too, but I prefer not to
count on it, and most people have their preferred products)

For more on packing, check out these posts:

● What I Pack For My Travels

● The Ultimate List For Female Travelers
● How to Choose and Buy the Right Backpack

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Travel Guide: Suggested Reading 

The Beach​, by Alex Garland

This story about backpackers and their search for off-the-beaten path “authentic”
paradise is one many of us can relate to. Following Richard and his quest to “do
something different” in Thailand, he heads off the beaten path in hopes of an authentic
experience but finds that things aren’t always what they appear. The book is part
adventure and part an exploration of why travelers always search for utopias and the
consequences of that quest. It was turned into a movie featuring Leonardo DiCaprio
back in the 90s. However, the book is a lot different (and much better). Focusing on the
ideal of travel, I can’t recommend the book enough.

Sightseeing​, by Rattawut Lapcharoensap

This collection of masterful stories from award-winning author Rattawut Lapcharoensap
is an absolute must-read if you’re visiting Thailand. Each story has a different theme,
whether it’s a tale of family bonds, young romance, generational conflict, or the cultural
shifts occurring in modern Thailand. You’ll be hooked right from the first story about a
beachside motel owner that falls in love with a young American tourist.

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Anna and the King of Siam​ by Margaret Landon

Anna Leonowens was a young Englishwomen who inevitably changed the course of
Thai history. She was hired in the 1860’s by King Mongkut of Siam to help him
communicate with foreign governments, and also to be the tutor to his children (and his
favorite concubines). This book is about Leonowens’ experiences, including the tutoring
of young prince Chulalongkorn, who was so impressed by Western ideals he went on to
become one of the country’s most progressive kings. This book is beautifully written and
gives some insight into untouched Thailand.

Mad About the Mekong,​ by John Keay

The author’s story retraces the voyage of Francis Garnier, a historic 19th-century
French explorer who sailed up the Mekong River looking for the “back door” into China.
Keay describes the modern world of the Mekong River from Vietnam up through
Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Burma, while recreating Garnier’s failed voyage which
included two ships bearing naturalists, soldiers, artists, and geologists. It’s a fascinating
read.

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The Orchid House,​ by Lucinda Riley

Julia Forrester, a concert pianist, spent much of her childhood in her grandfather’s
hothouse at the Wharton Estate in England where he tended to exotic orchids. After
losing her child and husband, Julia heads back to the hothouse where she meets Kit
Crawford, heir to the estate. When they discover an old diary, Julia sets out to find her
grandmother and to uncover the truth about the love affair that almost destroyed the
estate. This book jumps back and forth between the world of Wharton Park and
Thailand during WWII, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you reading!

Bangkok 8,​ by John Burdett

Bangkok 8 is a thrilling detective novel based on the murder of a suave Marine sergeant
under a bridge in Bangkok. There are just two witnesses: two cops, and within minutes
one of them is murdered. His partner, Sonchai Jitpleecheep, sets out on a mission to
find the killer. Sonchai is paired with a beautiful FBI agent (who inevitably wins his
heart), and is soon launched into a sinister world of drugs, prostitution, and corruption.
This one will keep you on the edge of your seat.

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Private Dancer,​ by Stephen Leather

Here’s a little insight into Bangkok’s wild go-go scene. Peter wanders into a go-go bar
and meets the love of his life: Joy, a stunningly beautiful (and young) pole dancer. But
Pete is soon launched into a life of drugs, sex, and deception as he discovers that his
private dancer is not who she says she is. This book is a #1 bestseller in Thailand!

Want all of My Money-Saving Tips for Thailand?

Get my detailed, 350+ page guidebook made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out
the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you
need to travel and save money while in Thailand, a country I used to call home (so I
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You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten
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My Other Must Have Guides For Traveling to Thailand
Nomadic Matt’s Guide to Bangkok
I share all my best tips, tricks, and secret
spots so you don’t have to make rookie
mistakes like falling for the tuk-tuk temple
scam or being overcharged for a riverboat
cruise.
How to Teach English Overseas
This book will teach you everything you
need to know about landing your dream job
and features interviews with dozens of
teachers, recruiters, detailed information on
the top teaching destinations, sample
resumes, advice on nailing your interview,
and much more.
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How to Get Free Flights
This book shows you how to take money
out of the travel equation and and master
the points and miles game. It will show you
how to easily collect and redeem travel
points for free airfare and accommodation.
How to Travel the World on $50 a
Day
My ​New York Times​ best-selling
paperback guide to world travel will
teach how to master the art of travel so
that, no matter how long you want to
travel for, you’ll save money, get off the
beaten path, and have a more local,
richer travel experience.
 
  

Articles About Thailand

The Saturday City: Bangkok, Thailand

What to Do and See in Bangkok: A 4 Day Itinerary

This is the Best Thai Food Outside of Thailand

How to Visit Khao Yai National Park

The Saturday City: Chiang Mai

9 Reasons to Visit Thailand in 2018

Click here for more articles--->

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