Cost To Travel Thailand And My Thailand Travel Budget: $23.00 Per Day

Find out exactly how much it will cost to travel Thailand budget backpacker style and the cost to travel Thailand. Let’s talk about the price of accommodation, transportation, food, and more before I let you know my EXACT Thailand trip cost and the recommend Thailand travel budget!

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Keeping a budget for each of my travels allows me to keep on track of my spending. Bonus, it also allows me to write information-filled posts such as this so I can share the cost to travel Thailand and my recommended Thailand travel budget.

When you search online Thailand is generally in the middle range for prices of countries in Southeast Asia. Though in all honesty, it is as easy to spend a little amount of money here as it is a lot.  Most websites seem to recommend anywhere from $25.00 to $60.00 per day. Though this is a huge range! So how cheap is Thailand really?

Surprisingly even in Asia traveling can be expensive. It’s easy to find yourself craving a taste of home and sitting down in a British-style pub. Perhaps you want to book a hotel room in Bangkok with an infinity pool with views of the skyline. Once you get a small taste of luxury it can be hard to go back to sitting on the curb with a meal or sharing a room with 12 other strangers.

Nevertheless, budget travel and backpacking is a great way to explore a country. You’ll meet some great people, taste delicious food and discover the beauty of varied landscapes.

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Thailand Budget and How Much Does It Cost To Travel Thailand?

• Accommodation Costs In Thailand
• Food Prices In Thailand
• Transportation Costs In Thailand
• My Daily Cost To Travel Thailand
• My Total Thailand Trip Cost
• Budgeted VS Actual Thailand Travel Budget
• Money Saving Tips To Decrease Your Cost To Travel Thailand

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How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12.Go Asia

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My partner, James joined me a couple of weeks into the backpacking Thailand trip. This allows us to split certain costs such as private rooms, taxis, hiring a motorbike, etc. Where this is true I will state that the cost is ‘shared’ or ‘split’. Now time to get on to find the cost to travel in Thailand…

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Accommodation Costs In Thailand

Accommodation costs vary a lot in Thailand. As said above it’s very easy to crave a taste of relaxation and book yourself into a fancy hotel. Though hostels are plentiful in the country and generally of pretty good quality. This is a great way to travel Thailand on a budget and save money. Though if you are not up to sharing a dorm room you can find affordable private rooms in locally run guesthouses.

Personally, I like using Booking.com to book accommodation everywhere I travel. This is due to the fact that they offer free cancellation allowing me to change my plan relatively last minute. You will also find in Southeast Asia many of the places you will still need to pay at the property as they prefer cash.

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Cost of Hostels In Thailand

One of the cheapest ways to travel Thailand is by staying in hostel dorm rooms. They range from super modern pod style to your typical metal childhood bunk beds and everything in between.

We stayed at quite a few hostels throughout our backpacking Thailand journey. This was mostly in the South and in Bangkok where it is a lot more touristy and private rooms were typically out of the budget. I have actually visited Bangkok numerous times and have only stayed in a private room for work. Otherwise, I will always book hostels in Bangkok to stick with my Thailand travel budget.

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Cost of Guesthouses In Thailand

Guesthouses are another excellent and affordable option when booking a backpacking trip around Thailand. They sit somewhere between a hostel and a hotel. You will get your own private room, though this is to more Thai standards than Western standards.

For example, the bed may be hard, your shower might be located straight over the toilet, and don’t expect an onsite restaurant. Typically they are in a large house and run by the family who owns it.  You will get a private bathroom and clean room. Though the furniture might be a bit dated.

I find guesthouses the perfect option if traveling as part of a couple. Generally, prices are around the same as booking 2 dorm beds, so is the perfect option. Though don’t expect the same social atmosphere as a hostel.

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Cost of Hotels In Thailand

Now, apart from work, I will basically never stay in a hotel in Thailand. Personally, they are out of my budget. Though if you enjoy a bit of luxury, though cannot often afford it in Western countries. Then you will absolutely love hotels in Thailand.

You can find plenty of affordable hotels here starting from $30.00 per night. Brand name hotels will be a bit pricier, though it is much cheaper than you can find elsewhere in the world. The service is often second to none and you will be living in uttermost luxury.

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Food Prices in Thailand

Thailand is a hub for any foodies and is at the top of travelers lists for the country with the best foods. When in Thailand definitely eat as the locals do. Try the dishes that Thailand is famous for and you won’t regret it.

Meals in Thailand, as well as being tasty, and also pretty affordable. I never spent too much more than $5.00 on a meal out with a drink. Though you’ll find street food even cheaper than this again.

If I am being honest, when I travel Thailand, and Southeast Asia generally, I never buy my own food to cook. This is because eating out is so affordable. You will also find the same thing happening with local people who will often head to one of the many street food vendors for a meal. As a result, in Thailand, it can be relatively hard to find apartments with a full kitchen.

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Streetfood in Thailand

Thailand is a mecca for delicious street food. A good meal is never too far away. There are also so many delicious meals here. Up in Chiang Mai, you will need to try Khao Soi. Also, don’t pass up a delicious Pad Thai (though the ones of Khao San Road are pretty bad).

You can find these dishes starting from just a couple of dollars. You will see further down that I didn’t really spend too much money on street food. Well apart from the occasional banana pancake which is my weakness. In all honesty, I simply enjoyed eating delicious stir fry and curries and locally run side of the road restaurants.

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Restaurants in Thailand

Restaurants in Thailand are amazing. Whether you want an authentic red Thai curry or a wood-fired pizza. You will be able to find both options in the main tourist hubs without having to look far.

There is plenty of places that cater to vegetarians and vegans, so it was so easy for me to find a delicious spot to eat. Tofu is the norm in many Thai restaurants. The prices here are insanely affordable and there is always a variety of choices available. I was always able to eat at a restaurant for whatever I was craving and even splurged on fancier options a couple of times.

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Transportation Costs in Thailand

Thailand is a large, spread-out country. No doubt you will be needing to take some sort of transportation to get around. Though luckily it is extremely easy to travel thanks to there being so many options you can choose from. Whether you want to shuttle bus, train, bus, boat, or fly there will always be some option to take you from point A to point B.

Mentally prepare yourself for a couple of overnight journeys, such as Bangkok to Koh Tao or Bangkok to Chiang Mai (though the sleeper train is great). Definitely check out 12.Go Asia to book your transport for easy and comfortable options with reviews so you can know what to expect.

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Trains in Thailand

There is a great train network in Thailand and this is a great option for traveling long distances. There are private berths on some trains. Though the majority is is where you all share a carriage and the seats convert to beds in the night.

Trains are one of my favorite ways to travel. I just find them quite comfortable compared to buses and you generally get a pretty good view of the landscapes, unlike planes.

I recommend taking the train between Bangkok and Chiang Mai (I have both bused and trained this journey and the train is so much better). It might be a bit more expensive than the bus. Though it is worth it for a journey where you can sleep through the entire night and have an actual bed.

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Buses In Thailand

Taking the bus is one of the cheapest ways to travel so it will definitely help your Thailand travel budget. Though it certainly is far from the most comfortable way to travel.

Nevertheless, I have taken my fair share of buses in Thailand, then overnight buses. Honestly, I would recommend checking out reviews before booking, especially on those long journeys. Though for short journeys they are a relatively fine option.

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Shuttle Buses In Thailand

The tourist alternative to taking buses for short journeys is the infamous shuttle bus. These are basically 8 or so seater vans which will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you off at the bus terminal in the town you are wishing to reach.

These are okay for shorter journeys. Though I would think twice before booking one for more than a 6-hour trip. This is simply because the drivers will often pack you in like sardines. Just because it is an 8 seater van does not mean there is room for 8 people and 8 full-size backpacks and suitcases.

Nevertheless, the shuttle bus is an easy and relatively affordable option when it comes to getting around Thailand. Making it a staple in any traveler’s Thailand travel budget.

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Flying in Thailand

I actually may not be overly qualified to talk about this simply because I have actually never taken a domestic flight in Thailand. The country has pretty good ground transport which is a lot more affordable. As a result, this doesn’t make flying an appealing option.

Though you will find airports in all major cities around Thailand. Also, there are plenty of budget airline choices and it makes a great alternative for those long 12+ hour overland journeys.

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How Cheap Is Thailand and My Daily Cost To Travel?

Thailand Travel Budget In Bangkok

Day One: Bangkok

After a short flight from Mandalay in Myanmar to Bangkok, I purchase a Sim Card with unlimited data for 2 weeks for $19.08 / 599 THB at the airport

I take the easiest option to travel from Don Mueang Airport to Khao San Road with the limo bus which costs $4.78 / 150 THB

Next, I have dinner by myself at an upscale restaurant consisting of a pasta dish with a side of Fanta for $7.49 /235 THB

I stay in a 20-bed dorm room on Khao San Road for $7.65 / 240

Daily Cost In Thailand: $39.00 / 1224 THB

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Day Two: Bangkok

I grab a late breakfast/lunch of fried rice and banana smoothie for $4.78 / 150 THB

At the 7/11 I pick up a small bottle of water, large water, and coke for $1.02 / 32 THB

Shopping on Khao San Road I spot a cute across-the-body bag that I have been wanting to buy. This costs me $6.37 / 200

For dinner, I join a couple of other travelers having some street food. I grab a banana and peanut butter pancake for $1.27 / 40 THB and a passionfruit smoothie for $1.27 / 40 THB

I stay in a 20-bed dorm room on Khao San Road for $7.65 / 240

Daily Cost In Thailand: $22.36 / 702 THB

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Day Three: Bangkok

I grab brunch at the hostel I am staying at. This consists of a banana and oreo milkshake with falafel sandwich that costs $6.82 / 214 THB

While exploring I grab chocolate bread and a large bottle of water for $0.83 / 26 THB

I purchase a bus ticket on 12.Go Asia to Chiang Mai which costs $17.78 / 558 THB. I also have to pay to hostel $0.32 / 10 THB to print it out.

It back to my new favorite street food for dinner. A banana and peanut butter pancake for $1.27 / 40 THB and a passionfruit smoothie for $1.27 / 40 THB.

I also try some gross cheese ball on a stick for $0.32 / 10 THB

I stay in a 20-bed dorm room on Khao San Road for $7.65 / 240

Daily Cost In Thailand: $36.26 / 1138 THB

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Day Four: Bangkok

I grab a cheap breakfast from 7/11 consisting of a croissant and mango juice for $2.87 / 90 THB

For lunch is a sanwhich, lemon juice, and water $6.53 / 205 THB

I then get chatting to some other travelers and manage to convince them to let me share their prebooked taxi to the bus station for $4.46 / 140 THB

I don’t have any accommodation cost as I am taking an overnight sleeper bus which ticket was purchased yesterday.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $14.00 / 435 THB

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Thailand Trip Cost In Chiang Mai

Day Five: Chiang Mai

I take a songthaew from the Chiang Mai train station to my hostel for $1.59 / 50 THB

As it’s too early to check in I go grab breakfast at Blue Diamond Breakfast Club. I order a set breakfast which includes egg, potato, a bread roll, tea, and avocado for $5.74 /180 THB

Exploring the streets of Chiang Mai I grab a fresh orange juice for $1.28 / 40 THB

For dinner, I stop at the nearby Uno Pizza Italy for a pizza and passionfruit juice that costs $6.54 / 205 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel in Chiang Mai which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $18.98 / 595 THB

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Day Six: Chiang Mai

For breakfast, I head to Bagel House Cafe & Bakery which becomes my new favorite spot. I grab an avocado, egg, and cheese bagel as well as a tangerine juice for $4.46 / 140 THB

At 7/11 I purchase a large bottle of water for $0.48 / 15 THB

It’s also washing day! Finding a random spot on the side of the road costs me$2.07 / 65 THB for 2kgs of washing

The evening is spent exploring the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market. While there I purchase 3 samoas’s, a bowl of coconut ice cream, a few sweets, and a passionfruit juice for $3.22 / 101 THB

I also buy a scarf for $3.19 / 100 THB and a bracelet for $1.28 / 40 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $18.53 / 461 THB

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Day Six: Chiang Mai

Unfortunately, I end up getting a bit sick. The coming few days are basically just some food to keep my energy levels up.

For breakfast, I grab a banana shake which costs $1.43 / 45 THB

Lunch consists of a packet of chips, water, and toastie from 7/11 for $1.43 / 45 THB

I stop in at By Hand Pizza Cafe for dinner where I buy a pizza and water for  $5.85 / 175 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $12.54 / 385 THB

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Day Seven: Chiang Mai

I head to Bagel House Cafe & Bakery which becomes my new favorite spot. I grab an avocado, egg, and cheese bagel as well as a soda for $3.83 / 120 THB

Next, I stop at 7/11 to buy some mosquito repellent, water, chips, and dried mango which comes to $2.71 / 85 THB

For lunch, I stop at a pancake stall and grab a banana and milk pancake for $0.80 / 25 THB

Dinner consists of a toasted jam sandwich from 7/11 for $0.70 / 22 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $11.87 / 372 THB

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Day Eight: Chiang Mai

I head to Bagel House Cafe & Bakery. I grab an avocado, egg, and cheese bagel as well as an orange juice for  $3.83 / 120 THB

Then, I stop at 7/11 to buy some water and a soda for $0.96 / 30 THB

I finally also stop at a pharmacy to get some flu & cold medication. The lady at the counter gives me some pretty potent stuff which knocks me out hard for $13.30 / 417 THB

When I finally awake from my slumber I grab 2 toasties from 7/11 for $1.34 / 42 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $23.26 / 729 THB

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Day Nine: Chiang Mai

I head to Vigie Sist Cafe for a croissant, piece of carrot cake, and tea that costs $3.99 / 125 THB

I wake up just before dark and head to 7/11. While there I purchase a packet of chips, water, chocolate milk, and dried mango for $2.71 / 85 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $10.53 / 330 THB

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Day Ten: Chiang Mai

I head back to Vigie Sist Cafe for a croissant, cheesecake, and tea that costs $4.46 / 140 THB

For dinner, I grab butter paneer, rice, and naan from New Dehli Indian Restaurant. This costs $7.97 / 250 THB.

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $16.26 / 510 THB

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Day Eleven: Chiang Mai

For breakfast, I head to 7/11 and grab two toasties and large water for $1.72 / 54 THB

For dinner, I grab butter paneer, rice, and naan from New Dehli Indian Restaurant. This costs $7.97 / 250 THB.

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $13.52 / 424 THB

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Day Twelve: Chiang Mai

For breakfast, I head to 7/11 and grab two toasties, a packet of mentos, and large water for  $1.63 / 51 THB

The evening is spent back exploring the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market. While there I purchase 3 samosa’s and a bowl of coconut ice cream for $1.91 / 60 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $7.37 / 231 THB

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Day Thirteen: Chiang Mai

I head to Bagel House Cafe & Bakery. I grab an avocado, egg, and cheese bagel as well as a banana smoothie for  $4.78 / 150 THB

Feeling a bit better now. For lunch, I head to 7/11 and grab 2 toasties and a grab bottle of water for $1.75 / 55 THB

Wanting a quick and easy dinner I head to the few streetfood stalls down the road and grab a banana and peanut butter pancake as well as a passionfruit smoothie for $2.55 / 80 THB

I stay in a 6-bed fan dorm bed hostel which is $3.83 / 120 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $12.61 / 405 THB

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Day Fourteen: Chiang Mai

It’s an early morning this morning as I pick James up from the airport to join me on this crazy adventure. I grab a quick breakfast at 7/11 consisting of a large bottle of water and a croissant for $0.64 / 20 THB

I pay for the tuk-tuk to the airport (he pays for the return from the airport to Chiang Mai Old City). This costs $4.78 / 150 THB

Of course, I have to take him to my favorite Bagel House Cafe & Bakery. I grab an avocado, egg, and cheese bagel as well as a juice for $3.83 / 120 THB

For dinner, we celebrate at By Hand Pizza Cafe. This costs me $8.93 / 280 THB for a pizza and a couple of drinks.

We stay at Wayside Guesthouse in a private room which costs $7.17 / 225 THB each per night.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $25.35 / 795 THB

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Day Fifteen: Chiang Khong

We head to 7/11 for breakfast. I buy 2 toasties, large water, and a packet of Fishermans Friends for $2.71 / 85 THB

The bus then picks us up to transport us to Chiang Khong. This cost $12.76 / 400 THB each and was purchased through our guesthouse.

We stop at the White Temple in Chiang Rai for lunch. Though it is so busy we don’t go inside. I grab some hot chips and a soda for $3.79 / 110 THB

Once at our accommodation we get our washing cleaned, which costs $2.55 / 80 THB

We have dinner nearby at PadThai Baan Yim Restaurant. Its so cheap we order Pad Thai, 2 drinks, fried rice, plain rice, sweet & sour tofu, and spring rolls for $5.58 / 175 THB each

We stay at Namkhong Guesthouse & Resort in a private room which costs $3.19 / 100 THB each per night.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $30.58 / 950 THB

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Day Sixteen: Chiang Khong

We head to 7/11 for breakfast. I buy a toastie, large water, and a packet of noddles for $1.59 / 50 THB

After a walk around exploring the town, it’s back to 7/11 for lunch. I grab noodles and chocolate milk for $1.59 / 50 THB

We have dinner again at PadThai Baan Yim Restaurant. I order plain rice, sweet & sour tofu, lemon juice, and hot chips for $5.42 / 170 THB each

We stay at Namkhong Guesthouse & Resort in a private room which costs $3.19 / 100 THB each per night.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $11.79 / 370 THB

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Day Seventeen: Chiang Khong & Bangkok

As I left Thailand on day seventeen and reentered later on after visiting Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia, I will add the first day I got back into Thailand to this day.

It’s back to 7/11 for breakfast, plus some extra food for the journey ahead. I grab 2 toasties, a croissant, a large bottle of water, a packet of chips, and a muffin for $2.23 / 70 THB.

We take a tuk-tuk to the Thai Lao border for $4.78 / 150 THB and also need to pay $0.80 / 25 THB for the bus over the friendship bridge.

This is where we left the country.

We obviously came back and missed 7/11 as that is the first place we went. A quick toastie costs me $0.80 / 25 THB

For dinner, we grab street food which costs $2.55 /80 THB

We stayed in a hostel in a dorm room which we actually managed to have all to ourselves. This cost $6.95 / 218 THB each per night.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $18.11 / 568 THB

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Day Eighteen: Bangkok

As a budget traveler, I grab breakfast at a random bakery for $2.07 / 65 THB. I also stop at 7/11 are get a toastie and drink for $1.75 / 55 THB

We have lunch at a little restaurant on Khao San Road. This costs me $4.15 / 130 THB

In the evening I manage to go get a foot massage which I have been dying to try. This costs $4.78 / 150 THB and is well worth it!

For dinner, I grab a toastie and a bottle of water for $1.43 / 45 THB. Outside the 7/11 is a small donut cart, I buy an assortment for $0.32 / 10 THB.

We stayed in a hostel in a dorm room which we actually managed to have all to ourselves. This cost $6.95 / 218 THB each per night.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $21.45 / 673THB

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Day Nineteen: Bangkok

I grab breakfast again at the random bakery for $2.07 / 65 THB. I also stop at 7/11 to buy a few packets of lollies and a bottle of water for $1.34 /  42 THB

It’s the lead up to Songkran, the Thai New Year, and quite a few places are closed. We have Indian for dinner at Chilli Chilli Indian Restaurant. It costs me $7.17 / 225 THB and honestly I would not recommend, it was very tasteless.

Back at 7/11, we grab some snacks to keep us going on our upcoming overnight bus journey. Think chips, water, pastries, etc. This costs me $1.69 / 53 THB. We also grab some donuts from the cart outside for $0.48 / 15 THB.

Booked with Lomprayah, we get on our night bus & ferry package to Koh Tao which costs $35.08 / 1100 THB each.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $47.83 / 1500THB

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Day Twenty: Koh Tao

After a long travel day/night we grab lunch nearby at a local restaurant called Yang Thai Food. I order sweet and sour tofu and a drink for $3.83 / 120 THB

After a long walk around the island, we find ourselves back at Yang Thai Food. This time I order a tofu budger and soda for just $1.91 / 60 THB.

We stay at Baan Rock Inn in a private room. This costs us $7.75 / 243 THB per night each.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $13.49 / 423THB

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Day Twenty-One: Koh Tao

We grab a couple of toasties and a large bottle of water from 7/11 for $1.91 / 60 THB for a quick breakfast.

Next up, a snorkeling tour of Koh Tao. We booked this through a nearby hostel for $19.13 / 600 THB each which includes lunch.

On the snorkeling tour, we also stop at Koh Nang Yuan. This has an additional entry fee of $3.19 / 100 THB. You also aren’t able to bring bottled water with you so we have to buy one on there for $0.96 / 30 THB.

For dinner, we are back at Yang Thai Food. I order a stir fry tofu and a drink for $3.67 / 115 THB

We stay at Baan Rock Inn in a private room. This costs us $7.75 / 243 THB per night each.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $36.61 / 1148 THB

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Day Twenty-Two: Koh Tao

For breakfast, we are back at Yang Thai Food. I order scrambled eggs on toast with tea for $2.71 / 85 THB

Today is also easter so I sneak off to the 7/11 to buy James some chocolates for $3.64 / 114 THB

Once again it’s back to Yang Thai Food for lunch. I stir fry tofu and a drink for $3.19 / 100 THB.

I also have the exact same as above for dinner. When you find an affordable and yum restaurant, it can be hard to go elsewhere. Another stir-fry tofu and a drink for $3.19 / 100 THB.

We stay at Baan Rock Inn in a private room. This costs us $7.75 / 243 THB per night each.

Daily Cost In Thailand: $20.48 / 642 THB

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Day Twenty-Three: Koh Phangan

For breakfast, we grab a couple of toasties from 7/11 and a drink that costs $2.23 / 70 THB

We then take a ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan for $15.94 / 500 THB each

Once in Koh Phangan, we take a taxi from the pier to our accommodation which we share with some other travelers. This costs $3.19 / 100 THB per person.

Nearby where we are staying is an assortment of delicious local restaurants. We stop here and I order a mushroom and tofu stir fry with a soda for $2.23 / 70 THB

For dinner, I also order the same thing, another $2.23 / 70 THB

On the way back we stop in at 7/11 to grab some after-dinner snacks. This costs $2.55 / 80 THB.

We stay in a dorm room at Goodtime Beach Backpackers. This costs  $3.19 / 100 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $31.56/ 990 THB

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Day Twenty-Four: Koh Phangan

For breakfast, we grab breakfast downstairs at the hostel. This costs $3.03 / 95 THB for scrambled eggs, toast, juice, and tea.

We stop in at 7/11 for some essentials costing $0.64 / 20 THB

Lunch is back at the super-cheap local restaurants. I get garlic and pepper tofu and a drink for $2.23 / 70 THB

For dinner, I also order the same thing, another $2.23 / 70 THB

Throughout the day I also got 2 ice creams to help beat the heat. Altogether they were $1.12 / 35 THB

We stay in a dorm room at Goodtime Beach Backpackers. This costs  $3.19 / 100 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $12.44 / 390 THB

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Day Twenty-Five: Koh Phangan

For breakfast, we grab a breakfast set at one of the local restaurants by our hostel. This costs just $1.91 / 60 THB for scrambled eggs, toast and tea.

We stop in at 7/11 for some essentials costing $0.64 / 20 THB

Lunch is back at the super-cheap local restaurants. I get stirfry tofu and a drink for $2.39 /  75 THB

Dinner is back at the local restaurant. I get red curry tofu and a drink for $3.79 / 110 THB

Lastly we stop off at 7/11 to grab some much needed water and snacks costing $2.23 / 70 THB

We stay in a dorm room at Goodtime Beach Backpackers. This costs  $3.19 / 100 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $14.15 / 435 THB

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Day Twenty-Six: Koh Phangan

For breakfast, we grab a breakfast set at our hostel. This costs $3.19 / 100 THB for scrambled eggs, toast and tea.

Today we decide to hire a scooter to explore the island. The cost is split between the two of us so I pay $3.99 / 125 THB. We also need to get petrol which is $0.64 / 20 THB

Even with a scooter, it’s still back to what we know is good for lunch. I get garlic and pepper tofu and a drink for $2.23 / 70 THB

Throughout our exploration, we also get a bit peckish so grab a toastie and drink from 7/11 for $1.12 / 35 THB

We grab a pasta dinner at the hostel which costs $4.15 / 130 THB

We stay in a dorm room at Goodtime Beach Backpackers. This costs  $3.19 / 100 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $18.51 / 580 THB

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Day Twenty-Seven: Krabi

For breakfast, we grab breakfast at one of the nearby restaurants. This costs  $2.55 / 80 THB for scrambled eggs and toast.

On the way back to the hostel we grab snacks for today’s journey from 7/11 coming to $1.91 / 60 THB

We need to take a taxi to the ferry terminal in Koh Phangan, this costs $1.59 / 50 THB

We will be traveling with Lomprayah on a boat + bus package to get us to Krabi. This cost $27.10 / 850 THB each

Once in Krabi and very hungry we grab a quick and easy dinner consisting of an assortment of 7/11 yummies costing $2.87 / 90 THB.

We stay in a guesthouse in a no window private room. This costs $6.38 / 200 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $42.40 / 1330 THB

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Day Twenty-Eight: Krabi

For breakfast, we head to a nearby cafe. I get a four-cheese panini, hot chips, and an iced coffee. This comes to a total of  $5.10 / 160 THB

We quickly realize that Krabi isn’t the town for us. We spend the day exploring alternatives.

A simple 7/11 lunch and dinner set us back $5.74 / 180 THB for both

We stay in a guesthouse in a no window private room. This costs $6.38 / 200 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $17.22 / 540 THB

 

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Day Twenty-Nine: Ao Nang

For breakfast, we head back to the delicious cafe from yesterday. I get a four-cheese panini and an iced coffee. This comes to a total of $4.53  / 142 THB

We jump on the songthaew which will take us to Ao Nang for $1.59 / 50 THB each

While we wait for our accommodation to pick us up we have lunch at Doogies Pizza & Bar for $3.83 / 120 THB

We grab some essentials at 7/11 costing $1.91 / 60 THB before checking into our accommodation

We head back out for dinner and try out an assortment of street food options coming to a total of $2.23 / 70 THB. I also purchase a scarf for $3.19 / 100 THB

We stay at Soodsai Resort in one of their basic little bungalows. This costs $8.77 /  275 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $26.05 / 817 THB

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Day Thirty: Ao Nang

We get up early and decide to take the first taxi boat from Ao Nang to Railay Beach costing $6.38 / 200 THB each

We have breakfast on Railay at a small cafe outside of the main populated area. This costs $3.19 / 100 THB for scrambled eggs on toast with tea.

Back in Ao Nang, we grab lunch at 7/11 before heading back to our accommodation for $1.91 / 60 THB.

For dinner, we splash out and eat in at an Indian Restaurant. This comes to a total of $8.29 / 260 THB

We stay at Soodsai Resort in one of their basic little bungalows again. Though this isn’t prebooked and they give us a better rate of $6.38 / 200 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $26.15 / 820 THB

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Day Thirty-One: Koh Phi Phi

We get up early and pop down to 7/11 for a breakfast toastie and some water costing $1.40 / 44 THB

Afterward we get the ferry from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi. This was booked through our accommodation and cost $9.57 / 300 THB each

We also need to pay the Phi Phi clean up fee on arrival which is $0.64 / 20 THB

Once on Koh Phi Phi, we grab lunch of Pad Thai from a small hole-in-the-wall restaurant. This costs $5.39 / 160 THB with a drink

For dinner we grab a few slices of pizza and a drink costing $7.97 / 250 THB

We stay at Phuphaya Seaview Resort in the cheapest private room which costs $12.60 / 395 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $37.57 / 1169 THB

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Day Thirty-Two: Koh Phi Phi

We grab a breakfast set at a small cafe which includes toast, scrambled eggs, juice, and tea. This costs $4.15 / 130 THB.

For lunch, we keep it simple and go to 7/11. We grab a few snacks, water, and toasties as Phi Phi is expensive! This costs $3.83 / 120 THB

Dinner consists of a few slices of pizza and a drink costing $6.38 / 200 THB

We stay at Phuphaya Seaview Resort in the cheapest private room which costs $12.60 / 395 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $26.96 / 845 THB

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Day Thirty-Three: Koh Phi Phi

Realizing how expensive this island is we skip breakfast and have a brunch breakfast set. This includes toast, scrambled eggs, juice, and tea and costs $4.15 / 130 THB.

Dinner consists of a few slices of pizza and a drink costing $6.38 / 190 THB.

We also stop into 7/11 and stock up on water for $1.59 / 50 THB

We stay at Phuphaya Seaview Resort in the cheapest private room which costs $12.60 / 395 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $24.72 / 765 THB

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Day Thirty-Four: Koh Phi Phi

We stop in at our go to cafe for a breakfast set. This includes toast, scrambled eggs, mushrooms, tomato, juice, and tea and costs $4.78 / 150 THB

Lunch is a slice of pizza for $2.55 / 80 THB

Dinner is two slices of pizza for $5.10 / 160 THB (don’t judge its like the cheapest meal option on the island!)

I also buy a bottle of water for $0.64 / 20 THB

We stay at Phuphaya Seaview Resort in the cheapest private room which costs $12.60 / 395 THB each per night

Daily Cost In Thailand: $25.67 / 805 THB

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Day Thirty-Five: Koh Lanta

For breakfast, we stop at 7/11 for a couple of toasties and a drink costing $2.55 / 80 THB

Before boarding our ferry we also grab lunch of a croissant from a small cafe by the wharf. This costs $3.51 / 110 THB

We board the ferry which we purchased through one of the travel agencies in the main town. This cost us $9.57 / 300 THB

Once on Koh Lanta we also pay for a taxi to our accommodation which costs us $4.78 / 150 THB each

We buy our dinner at the onsite restaurant at our accommodation. I order a tofu massaman curry for $2.23 / 70 THB

For dessert, we head to a nearby bakery and have a slice of cake for $2.87 / 90 THB

We also put$0.64 / 20 THB worth of petrol in our motorbike

We stay in a bamboo bungalow at a local guesthouse house. It cost $4.78 / 150 THB each per night and included free motorbike rental

Daily Cost In Thailand: $30.93 / 970 THB

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Day Thirty-Six: Koh Lanta

For breakfast, we stop at 7/11 for a toastie costing $0.80 / 25 THB

Next up, we visit Lanta animal shelter and donate $1.59 / 50 THB

We grab lunch nearby at Thai Smile Restaurant where I get a tofu stir fry costing $3.83 / 120 THB with a Thai iced tea

Next up, we make our way down the coast to visit Koh Lanta National Park which has a $6.38 / 200 THB entry fee. We also pay $0.32 / 10 THB to aprk our motorbike

We stop in at Bobby Big Boy Thai Restaurant for dinner. I order a mushroom and tifu stir fry and a drink for $4.78 / 150 THB

For dessert, we head to a nearby bakery and share a slice of cake for $1.43 / 45 THB

We also put $0.64 / 20 THB worth of petrol in our motorbike

We stay in a bamboo bungalow at a local guesthouse house. It cost $4.78 / 150 THB each per night and included free motorbike rental

Daily Cost In Thailand: $24.23 / 770 THB

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Day Thirty-Seven: Koh Lanta

For breakfast, we eat back at Thai Smile Restaurant where I order scrambled eggs on toast with a tea for $3.19 / 100 THB

We then explore the island on the motorbike and stop at a few different restaurants. We end up spending $1.91 / 60 THB on drinks.

For lunch, we stop in at 7/11 and grab some toasties and noodles with water. This costs me $3.83 / 120 THB

Dinner is back to 7/11 for some more toasties and noodles. I end up spending $3.19 / 100 THB this trip.

We also put  $1.56 / 40 THB worth of petrol in our motorbike

We stay in a bamboo bungalow at a local guesthouse house. It cost $4.78 / 150 THB each per night and included free motorbike rental

Daily Cost In Thailand: $18.46 / 570 THB

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Day Thirty-Eight: Phuket

For breakfast, I grab a toastie for $1.12 / 35 THB and a deodorant for $2.55 / 80 THB

We take a ferry to Phuket that was booked through our guesthouse. This costs $15.94 / 500 THB

Once in Phuket we then take a shared taxi to our accommodation for $6.38 / 200 THB

Lunch is 7/11 for some more toasties and noodles. I end up spending $2.23 / 80 THB

Dinner is back to 7/11 for some more toasties and noodles. I end up spending $3.19 / 100 THB this trip.

We stay at Bella Guesthouse in a private room for $6.03 / 199 THB

Daily Cost In Thailand: $37.44 / 1159 THB

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My Total Thailand Trip Cost

Cost To Travel Thailand	BAHT	USD
Accommodation	7014	$223.67
Food	11952	$381.15
Sim & Data	599	$50.99
Airport Transfer To Koh San Road	150	$4.78
Small Bag	200	$6.38
Bus Bangkok To Chiang Mai	558	$17.79
Printing Bus Ticket	10	$0.32
Shared Taxi To Bus Station In Bangkok	140	$4.46
Songthaew To Chiang Mai Hostel	50	$1.59
Washing	145	$4.62
Scarf x2	200	$6.38
Mosquito Repellent	35	$1.12
Flu & Cold Medication	417	$13.30
Tuktuk To Chiang Mai Airport	150	$4.78
Bus Chiang Mai To Chiang Khong	400	$12.76
TukTuk To Thai Lao Border	150	$4.78
Bus Across Friendship Bridge	25	$0.83
Foot Massage	150	$4.78
Bus & Boat To Koh Tao	1100	$35.08
Koh Tao Snorkeling Tour	600	$19.13
Koh Nang Yuan Entry Fee	100	$3.19
Ferry To Koh Phangan	500	$15.94
Taxi To Pier In Koh Tao	100	$3.19
Scooter Hire In Koh Phangan	125	$3.99
Taxi To Pier In Koh Phangan	50	$1.59
Bus & Boat To Krabi	850	$27.11
Songthaew To Ao Nang	50	$1.59
Return Boat Trip To Railay Beach	200	$6.38
Ferry To Koh Phi Phi	300	$9.57
Koh Phi Phi Clean Up Fee	20	$0.64
Ferry To Koh Lanta	300	$9.57
Taxi To Accommodation In Koh Lanta	150	$4.78
Lanta Animal Welfare Donation	50	$1.59
Koh Lanta National Park Entry	200	$6.38
Motorbike parking	10	$0.32
Deodorant	80	$2.55
Ferry To Phuket	500	$15.94
Taxi To Phuket Accommodation	200	$6.38
Petrol	100	$3.19
Total Costs	28155	$897.86
Cost Per Day	740	$23.60

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Budgeted VS Actual Thailand Travel Budget

	Budgeted	Actual	Difference
Total Spend	$950.00	$897.86	$52.14
Cost per day	$25.00	$23.60	-$1.40

I ended up ever so slightly under budget for my 38 days backpacking Thailand budget. Though, if I am being honest, this very easily could’ve gone over budget. Getting sick in Chiang Mai was a big contributor to saving so much money as I spent many days just sleeping and recovering.

Using Lomprayah to travel around Thailand was also a rather pricey choice, which looking back on I may not do again. It was just a good and easy option for a traveler to get between large distances. Alternatively, I could have split some of those journeys up a bit more and stayed on the mainland longer.

Honestly, I don’t know if I would go back to Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Maybe I was staying in the wrong part or I couldn’t afford the best of what was on offer. But in those places the majority of my budget went towards accommodation, leaving me very little to do activities.

Lastly, I did not really eat any street food in Thailand. I many stuck to local restaurants, though even the prices in those add up. Looking back I would eat less pizza and more local curry dishes. 

Though, all in all, my cost per day of $23.60 was pretty damn good and I had a fantastic time exploring Thailand.

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How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12.Go Asia

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Money Saving Tips To Decrease Your Cost To Travel Thailand

• • Book hostels with free breakfast.
  • Check out whether your accommodation also includes free water.
  • Share transport with other people, waiting ten minutes to see if anyone else is going to the airport/bus station could save you money.
  • Don’t just do a short trip up North. It’s so cheap up there and will even out your budget from the pricey South.
  • Use Uber or Grab instead of taxis whenever possible. I swear this saved us from being scammed so many times and we always knew the price we would pay.
  • If the city does not have Uber make sure the taxi driver uses the meter.

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How I Book Cheap Transport In Thailand: 12.Go Asia

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Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….

• TRAVEL KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO
• VISITING THE WHITE TEMPLE IN CHIANG RAI
• PHUKET TO KOH LANTA TRANSPORT GUIDE
• KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINTS
• ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
• A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
• BACKPACKING KOH LANTA
• VEGETARIAN COOKING CLASS IN CHIANG MAI
• KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI TRANSPORT GUIDE

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