10 Thailand Travel Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

A motorbike struggles through a flooded street in Bangkok during heavy rain, with street food stalls and a pharmacy in the background – a reminder of Thailand’s intense rainy season.

10 Thailand Travel Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

By Siri- 2/19/2025

Thailand is one of my favorite destinations, but after more than ten trips, I’ve learned that some mistakes can turn an amazing adventure into a stressful experience. From overpriced taxis to unexpected visa issues, here are the biggest travel mistakes I’ve seen (and made myself!)—so you can avoid them.

1. Not Researching Visa Requirements

Interior view of Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, featuring modern architecture and travelers walking through the terminal.

Did you know that not all nationalities can enter Thailand visa-free? Many travelers assume they can stay for as long as they want, but visa rules vary. Some countries get 60-day visa-free entry, while others need a visa before arrival. Always check the latest visa requirements before booking your trip.

2. Ignoring Travel Insurance

Damaged motorcycle after an accident on the road in Thailand – a reminder of why travel insurance is essential.

Thailand is an amazing place, but accidents happen - whether it’s a scooter crash, food poisoning, or a lost passport.. I’ve heard so many stories of travelers in Thailand who skipped travel insurance and ended up with massive medical bills. Tip: Many hospitals in Thailand require upfront payment if you don’t have insurance!

3. Visiting During the Wrong Season

Tuk-tuk driving through a rainy Bangkok street market, with colorful flags and street food stalls in the background. A glimpse of Thailand's monsoon season.

Thailand’s rainy season (May to October) can completely change your trip. Some islands shut down, ferry services get canceled, and flooding can be an issue in Bangkok. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. If you must travel during the rainy season, the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao) generally has better weather than the Andaman side.

4. Underestimating How Big Bangkok Is

Bangkok skyline at dusk, with illuminated skyscrapers and city lights stretching into the horizon.

Bangkok is huge, and choosing the wrong location can add hours to your commute. Many tourists stay on Khao San Road, thinking it’s central, but it’s actually far from the BTS Skytrain and key areas. Instead, consider staying in Sukhumvit, Silom, or near the riverside for better transport options.

5. Taking the Wrong Type of Taxi

View from inside a car driving through Bangkok's Chinatown, with a pink taxi and colorful neon signs lining the street. A vibrant look at the city's bustling atmosphere.

Taxi scams are common in Thailand. Many drivers refuse to use the meter and overcharge tourists. On my first trip, I learned this the hard way when I took a tuk-tuk in Bangkok and ended up paying triple what a metered taxi would have cost. Always:

Use Grab or Bolt (ridesharing apps like Uber)
Say “Meter, please” when entering a regular taxi
Avoid tuk-tuks for long distances (they often charge more than taxis!)

6. Overpacking and Bringing Unnecessary Items

Flat lay of an open suitcase with travel essentials, including a straw hat, camera, and skincare products, ready for a tropical vacation.

Thailand’s tropical climate means you can leave the heavy jackets and extra jeans at home. With affordable laundry services available for just $2-3 per kilo, packing light is the way to go. Plus, you’ll find everything you need locally—whether it’s sunscreen, toiletries, or clothes from the markets!

7. Disrespecting Thai Culture and Customs

Golden Buddha statues in a row at a Thai temple, reflecting the cultural and spiritual beauty of Thailand.

Thailand has strong cultural traditions, and it’s important to be respectful:

Never touch someone’s head (it’s considered sacred)
Dress modestly at temples (shoulders and knees covered)
Don’t point your feet at people or Buddha images
Wai (palms together) when greeting locals – a handshake is less common

8. Not Trying Street Food (And Missing the Best Dishes!)

Thai street food skewers being grilled at a bustling night market, with fresh pineapple, vegetables, and marinated meat sizzling over an open flame.

Some travelers avoid street food out of fear of food poisoning. In reality, Thai street food is safe and delicious, as long as you pick the right places. Look for stalls where locals eat, and go for freshly cooked food. Some must-try dishes include Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, Som Tam (papaya salad), and Khao Soi (northern curry noodles).

9. Relying on Credit Cards Instead of Cash

Traditional Thai money tree donation at a Buddhist temple, featuring banknotes attached to decorative poles with flowers.

Thailand is still a cash-first country, especially in smaller towns and markets. Many street vendors, tuk-tuk drivers, and local restaurants don’t accept cards. Always carry enough Thai Baht for daily expenses. ATMs are widely available, but they often charge high withdrawal fees, so withdrawing larger amounts at once is smarter.

10. Forgetting to Check National Holidays and Festivals

People celebrating Songkran, Thailand's water festival, with water guns and hoses during the traditional Thai New Year.

Thailand has many public holidays and festivals that can affect travel plans. For example:

Songkran (April 13-15) – The Thai New Year water festival, where cities turn into water fights! One of my favorite festivals!
Loy Krathong (November) – A beautiful lantern festival where people release floating baskets on rivers.
Buddhist holidays – Many bars and alcohol shops close on religious holidays.

Checking the calendar before booking your trip ensures you don’t run into unexpected closures or disruptions.

Insider tips for your next adventure