Last updated Feb 2026
Thailand
Everything you need before landing in Thailand: visa requirements, best eSIM plans, Bangkok airport transport options, ATM tips, and essential apps.
Visa
| Passport | Status | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇧UK | Visa-free | 60 days | Free |
| 🇺🇸USA | Visa-free | 60 days | Free |
| 🇦🇺Australia | Visa-free | 60 days | Free |
| 🇪🇺EU countries | Visa-free | 60 days | Free |
| 🇨🇳China | Visa-free | 30 days | Free |
| 🇮🇳India | Visa-free | 30 days | Free |
eSIM / SIM card
Buy before you fly — an eSIM activates automatically when you land, no airport queue needed. Prices are approximate USD and may vary.
Short stay — up to 10 days
Long stay — 10 to 30 days
No eSIM on your device? Physical SIMs from AIS, DTAC, or TrueMove are available at Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports.
Airport Transport
Airports: CNX – Chiang Mai International
| Option | Time | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grab | 10–20 min | 80–150 THB ($2.50–4.50) | Fast and affordable — airport is very close to the city |
| Official metered taxi | 10–20 min | 120–180 THB ($3.50–5.50) | Reliable backup if Grab is unavailable |
| Red Songthaew (shared truck) | 20–30 min | 40–60 THB ($1.20–1.80) | Budget travellers comfortable with shared transport |
Cash & ATMs
Verdict
Thailand is moderately cash-dependent. Street food, markets, small guesthouses, and tuk-tuks are cash-only. Cards are widely accepted at malls, mid-range restaurants, and 7-Elevens. Keep 1,000–2,000 THB on hand at all times.
ATMs
ATMs are everywhere but charge a flat 220 THB (~$6.50) foreign transaction fee regardless of amount. Withdraw large amounts (10,000–20,000 THB) to minimise fees. Kasikorn Bank (KBank) and Bangkok Bank tend to offer the best exchange rates. Use a Wise or Charles Schwab card to offset the fee.
Tipping
Not mandatory but appreciated. Round up taxi fares, tip 20–50 THB at restaurants for good service, and leave 100–200 THB for massage therapists. Hotel housekeeping 20–50 THB per day.
Essential Apps
Grab
Ride-hailing and food delivery. More reliable than tuk-tuks, prices fixed upfront.
LINE
Thailand's dominant messaging app. Hotels, tour operators, and locals all communicate via LINE.
Google Maps
Offline maps work well in Thailand. Download Bangkok, Phuket or Chiang Mai before landing.
Bolt
Ride-hailing alternative to Grab — often cheaper in Bangkok and Phuket.
Agoda
Thailand-based hotel booking platform with the best deals for Southeast Asian properties.
First Day Tips
- 1Get your eSIM working before you leave the plane — activate it while on board using the QR code so you have internet as soon as you're through immigration.
- 2At Suvarnabhumi (BKK), head to the Airport Rail Link station on the basement level (B floor) rather than queuing for a taxi. It's 26 minutes to Phaya Thai station for 45 THB.
- 3Stop at any 7-Eleven after clearing customs to grab a Thai SIM top-up, water, and snacks. There are multiple 7-Elevens airside and landside — Thailand has more per capita than almost anywhere.
- 4Exchange a small amount of cash (1,000–2,000 THB) at the airport money changers for your first taxi or meal, then use ATMs in the city for better rates. SuperRich currency exchange booths in Bangkok offer excellent rates.
- 5Download LINE and add your accommodation's LINE ID before you arrive — most Thai hotels and guesthouses prefer LINE messages over WhatsApp or email for check-in coordination.
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