Practical guides, destination deep-dives, and everything you need to backpack Thailand like a pro.
139 guides available

Everything you need to transition from backpacking to nomad life in Chiang Mai — cost of living, co-working spaces, neighborhoods, internet speeds, visa options, and community.

Not all elephant sanctuaries are equal. This guide ranks 10 sanctuaries by ethical standards — no riding, no chains, rescue-only — so you can visit elephants responsibly.

The real guide to Thailand's Full Moon Party — what it actually costs, how to stay safe, where to stay, what to skip, and whether it's still worth it in 2026.

Complete guide to avoiding tourist traps, scams, and overpriced tourist zones in Thailand. Learn to find local prices, spot fake guides, and eat where locals eat.

Real talk about who gets denied entry to Thailand, why it happens, the red flags immigration officers look for, and how to prepare so you don't get turned away at the airport.

Everything that changed in Thailand's visa system — longer stays, stricter land borders, Cambodia closure, DTV updates, and TDAC requirements. What backpackers need to know.

Visa exemption vs tourist visa vs DTV — cut through the confusion. Interactive decision guide for backpackers with 2026 rule changes, costs, and extension options.

The only Thailand visa comparison you need — every visa type from exemption to Elite, compared by cost, duration, requirements, and who each one is best for.

Complete 30-day Thailand itinerary: 4 phases from Bangkok through north mountains, gulf islands, and Andaman beaches. Pace guide, visa info, and budget.

The best 2 week itinerary in Thailand: classic Bangkok → Chiang Mai → islands route with 3 variants. Day-by-day guide, budget breakdown, and booking tips.

A realistic 7-day Thailand itinerary covering Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the Gulf Islands. Three pace options, daily budgets, and transport guides.

A 2-week Thailand itinerary at three budget levels — $25/day backpacker, $40/day comfort, and $60/day semi-luxury — with real prices and tips.

First time in Thailand? Complete beginner's guide: why Thailand is perfect for first-timers, what to expect, classic route, culture tips, and first-timer mistakes to avoid.

Thailand islands itinerary: choose between Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Tao) or Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi). Both routes, 1-week itineraries, ferry booking, best times.

Thailand's weather varies dramatically by region and month. This guide breaks down Bangkok, north Thailand, Gulf islands, and Andaman coast by month so you can plan around the weather.

Explore Thailand's ancient capital - a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with temple ruins, Buddha statues, and 400 years of history. Complete guide to visiting Ayutthaya from Bangkok.

Everything first-time backpackers need to know about Bangkok: where to stay, what to see, how to stay safe, and how to do it all on $30-45/day.

Complete Chiang Mai guide for backpackers and digital nomads. Temples, night markets, coworking spaces, Muay Thai, trekking, and living on $25-50/day.

Everything you need to know about diving in Koh Tao: PADI Open Water certification, best dive sites, budget breakdown, and where to stay on Thailand's diving island.

Krabi is Thailand's adventure capital - world-class rock climbing on towering limestone cliffs, stunning beaches like Railay and Ao Nang, epic island tours, and backpacker vibes. Complete guide for adventure seekers.

Explore Sukhothai Historical Park - Thailand's most atmospheric temple ruins and birthplace of Thai civilization. Complete guide to visiting the ancient capital by bicycle.

Learn essential Thai phrases every backpacker needs. From greetings to bargaining, ordering food to emergencies - basic Thai language guide with pronunciation help.

Complete Thailand budget guide with real 2026 prices. From ฿800/day budget travel to ฿2,000+ comfortable trips - exact costs for accommodation, food, transport, activities. Sample daily budgets, regional differences, and money-saving tips.

Planning your first trip to Thailand? This complete guide covers everything from visas and budgets to itineraries and cultural tips. You've got this!

Complete Thailand packing list for backpackers. Category-by-category gear guide with real prices, season tips, and what to skip.
GuideComplete price guide for every adventure activity in Thailand — from zip-lining and diving to Muay Thai and rock climbing. Real costs in THB and USD with money-saving tips.
GuideHow to find, inspect, negotiate, and rent a monthly apartment in Chiang Mai — from 5,000 THB studios to 15,000 THB condos. Includes deposits, contracts, scams to avoid, and neighborhood picks.
GuideWiFi speeds tested, outlet counts verified, and coffee quality rated at 20 Chiang Mai cafes that actually welcome laptop workers. Neighborhood by neighborhood.
GuideNimman for cafes, Old City for temples, Santitham for local vibes — every Chiang Mai neighborhood compared by rent, food, walkability, vibe, and who it's best for.
GuideThe complete guide to Chiang Mai's social scene for digital nomads and backpackers — meetups, Facebook groups, language exchanges, co-living, sports leagues, and weekly events.
GuideActual costs for living in Chiang Mai in 2026 — rent, food, transport, co-working. Budget ($600/mo), mid-range ($1,200/mo), and comfortable ($2,000/mo) breakdowns with real examples.
GuideEvery coworking space in Chiang Mai tested and compared — WiFi speeds, prices, atmosphere, and which ones are actually worth paying for when cafes are everywhere.
GuideHow to spend one month in Chiang Mai as a backpacker or digital nomad — week-by-week breakdown covering accommodation, activities, day trips, and the daily rhythm that makes people stay for years.
GuideTwo nomad capitals, completely different vibes. Compare cost of living, coworking, neighborhoods, nightlife, visa logistics, and quality of life for remote workers.
GuideA practical guide to responsible backpacking in Thailand — from elephant encounters and temple etiquette to overtourism, environmental impact, and supporting local communities.
GuideEssential guide to hiking and trekking gear for Thailand. Learn what to pack for Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai treks, Khao Sok, and jungle hikes. Real-world tested gear recommendations and what to skip.
GuideCompare 8 trekking companies, choose between 1-day and multi-day treks, and know what to pack for northern Thailand's jungle trails. Includes ethical hill tribe visit guidance.
GuidePaddle through Phang Nga Bay sea caves, explore Ang Thong's hidden lagoons, and kayak Krabi's mangroves. Complete guide to Thailand's best kayaking with costs, operators, and seasons.
GuideWant to stay in Thailand for months or years? Compare ED visas, DTV, Thailand Elite, border runs, and the retirement visa. Practical breakdown of every legal long-term option.
GuideTrain Muay Thai where it was born. Compare 10 camps across Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Phangan — prices, intensity, accommodation, and what to expect as a total beginner.
GuideRailay has 700+ climbing routes on limestone karsts rising from turquoise water. Here's every climbing school compared, routes by difficulty, costs, gear, and Deep Water Soloing.
GuideEveryone dives Koh Tao, but Thailand has world-class sites from the Similan Islands to Richelieu Rock. Compare 8 lesser-known dive areas with costs, visibility, and marine life.
GuideCompare Thai cooking classes in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and the islands. Prices, what dishes you learn, market tours, group sizes, and which class is worth your time and money.
GuideComplete border run guide with costs, transport, processing times, and difficulty ratings for all Thailand land crossings. Updated with 2026 restrictions.
GuideThe DTV gives you 180 days in Thailand, extendable to 360. Here's exactly who qualifies, how to apply, what documents you need, and whether it's worth it vs visa exemption.
GuideThe real consequences of overstaying in Thailand — fine structure, ban lengths, blacklist rules, and what to do if you've already overstayed. No sugarcoating.
GuideStep-by-step guide to applying for a Thailand tourist visa (SETV and METV) — required documents, embassy process, common rejection reasons, and whether you even need one.
GuideGet 30 extra days in Thailand for 1,900 THB. Complete walkthrough of the visa exemption extension process — which immigration office, what documents, how long it takes, and tips to avoid problems.
GuideUpdated 2026 visa exemption rules for Thailand — 93 eligible countries, air vs land entry differences, extension process, and the new restrictions you need to know.
GuideEverything you need to extend your Thailand visa — TM.7 form explained field by field, what documents to bring, how to avoid common mistakes, and immigration office tips.
GuideComplete guide to Thailand's Visa on Arrival — which 31 nationalities qualify, how the airport process works, costs, documents needed, and whether VOA or visa exemption is better for you.
GuideThailand has surprisingly good white water from Chiang Mai's Mae Taeng to Kanchanaburi's Erawan region. Compare rivers, rapids classes, operators, costs, and seasons.
GuideCompare Thailand's top zip line courses from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui. Covers Flight of the Gibbon, Eagle Track, safety records, costs, and what to expect.
GuideHow to maximize 10 days in Thailand: choose one region, avoid transport traps, and actually relax. Three proven routes with day-by-day planning.
GuideHonest, in-depth review of 12Go Asia for booking trains, buses, and ferries in Thailand. Price comparisons, booking walkthrough, pros, cons, and when to book direct instead.
GuideLearn to spot authentic Thai restaurants vs overpriced tourist traps. Price comparisons, neighborhood guides for Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and insider tips.
GuideThe 40L vs 60L debate settled for Thailand backpackers. Plus the features that actually matter in SE Asia heat and the best brands by budget.
GuideEvery way to get from Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to Bangkok city. Prices, step-by-step guides, scam warnings, and late-night options.
GuideFour great Bangkok day trips with exact transport costs, routes, and what to see — from the 15-baht Ayutthaya train to a weekend beach escape at Koh Samet.
GuideTrain, bus, or flight? Compare every way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai with prices, durations, pros and cons, and step-by-step booking guides.
GuideEssential beach safety guide for Thailand covering rip currents, jellyfish seasons, drowning prevention, and beach-specific danger ratings for Phuket, Koh Samui, and the islands.
GuideThe definitive Bangkok street food guide: 80+ stalls across 10 neighborhoods, prices in Baht, night markets, and how to eat all day for under 500B.
GuideExplore Thailand's 4 regional cuisines: 50+ signature dishes from Northern, Southern, Central, and Isaan kitchens with prices, where to eat, and what to order.
GuideDefinitive comparison of buses vs trains for every major Thailand route. Costs, comfort, travel times, overnight options, and which to choose for Bangkok-Chiang Mai, islands, and beyond.
GuideComplete guide to traveling Thailand with only carry-on baggage. Packing techniques, airline rules, laundry strategy, and weight-saving hacks.
GuideComplete guide to eating in Chiang Mai for under 100B per meal. Specific restaurants, stalls, food courts, and local secrets across every neighborhood.
GuideThe classic North Thailand loop: Chiang Mai → Pai → Chiang Rai → Bangkok. Two versions — 5-day express and 10-day explorer — with transport costs and daily budgets.
GuideEverything you need to know about the Chiang Mai to Pai journey. Minivan vs bus vs motorbike, motion sickness survival tips, the 762 curves explained, and whether Pai is worth it.
GuideDengue risk in Thailand by region and season. Prevention with DEET, protective clothing. Symptoms, treatment, and when to see doctor. Recovery timeline.
GuideWhat to pack for working remotely in Thailand — the best travel laptop, essential tech gear, SIM card strategy, and co-working space tips for Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Koh Lanta.
GuideThailand electronics guide for backpackers. Power adapters, voltage info, essential tech, waterproofing, and SIM cards explained.
GuideFood poisoning risk in Thailand. Prevention tips (street food is safe!). Symptoms, self-treatment with ORS, when to see doctor, recovery timeline.
GuideEssential safety guide for Thailand's Full Moon Party — bucket drinks, drugs, theft, fire hazards, and how to survive the night on Haad Rin beach.
GuideComplete guide to reaching Koh Tao. Every route from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other islands. Ferry operators compared, combined tickets explained, pier guides, and seasonal warnings.
GuidePractical comparison of Grab ride-hailing vs traditional taxis in Thailand. Price comparisons, scam avoidance, app setup, and when each option wins by city and situation.
GuideThailand's heat can be dangerous. Learn the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, when to seek help, and how to stay safe in 40°C tropical heat.
GuideComplete guide to Thai island ferries — Gulf and Andaman routes, operators, prices in Baht, schedules, pier info, and booking tips for backpackers.
GuideThailand's LGBTQ+ scene for backpackers — legal rights, gay-friendly destinations, nightlife, events, healthcare, and practical safety tips for queer travelers.
GuideThe practical guide to managing your period in Thailand — where to buy tampons (not everywhere!), menstrual cup availability, beach swimming tips, and OTC options at Thai pharmacies.
GuideLoneliness, overstimulation, decision fatigue — they're common on long trips. Here's how to recognize travel burnout, when to slow down, and where to find help in Thailand.
GuideExtreme minimalist packing guide for Thailand. Live out of a 20L daypack for weeks. One bag travel tips and laundry strategies.
GuideStep-by-step guide for handling a motorbike accident in Thailand. Covers emergency response, hospital procedures, insurance claims, police reports, and prevention tips.
GuideComplete guide to overnight buses in Thailand. VIP company rankings, what to pack, safety assessment, booking tips, popular routes, and how to actually sleep on a Thai bus.
GuideStay safe at Thailand's night markets. Covers pickpocket prevention, common scams, food safety, drink spiking awareness, and tips for specific markets like Chatuchak and Rot Fai.
GuideThe definitive guide to Thailand's best night markets: what to eat, what to buy, prices in Baht, how to get there, and insider tips for 15 markets across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and beyond.
GuideNavigate Phuket's notoriously expensive transport system. Airport transfers, beach hopping, scooter rental, Grab vs tuk-tuks, songthaew routes, and avoiding scams.
GuideEverything about renting a scooter in Thailand — license requirements, insurance, costs by destination, safety tips, scam warnings, and what to do if you crash.
GuideComplete guide to Thailand's sleeper trains. Class comparisons, major routes, schedules, booking walkthrough, and everything you need for overnight train travel.
GuideEverything women traveling alone need to know about Thailand — safety, hostels, transport, health, and how to make the most of an incredible solo adventure.
GuideComplete guide to Thai local transport — songthaews, tuk tuks, motorcycle taxis, Grab, metered taxis. Prices, etiquette, scams, and Thai phrases.
GuideStep-by-step guide to ordering Thai street food without speaking Thai. 20+ essential phrases with Thai script, payment tips, spice levels, and stall types.
GuidePractical food safety guide for Thailand: how to pick safe stalls, ice myths debunked, what to avoid, pharmacy remedies, and when to see a doctor.
GuideComplete guide to Thailand temple dress codes and etiquette. What to wear, behavior rules, and temple-by-temple requirements.
GuideEverything you need to know about visiting Thai temples respectfully. Dress codes, behavior rules, photography etiquette, monk interaction, and temple-specific guides.
GuideHonest comparison of Thai cooking classes across Thailand: prices, what you learn, best schools by city, and whether they're worth the money for backpackers.
GuideComplete guide to 25 Thai desserts with Thai names, pronunciation, prices, where to find them, and how to order. From mango sticky rice to hidden gems.
GuideComplete Thai food allergy guide with allergen tables for 30+ dishes, Thai phrases for allergies, printable allergy cards, and emergency info for travelers.
Guide30 must-try Thai dishes ranked from mild to adventurous. Thai names, spice levels, prices, flavor profiles, and exactly what to order your first time.
GuideChiang Mai's air quality hits dangerous levels from March to April during burning season. Here's when to go, when to skip, and how to protect yourself if you're already booked.
GuideWhat to pack for Thailand's islands — reef-safe sunscreen (Koh Tao's rules), snorkel gear (rent vs buy), dry bags, and the island-specific items most guides miss.
GuideHow to travel Thailand on $25/day (800 THB) — exact accommodation, food, and transport costs by city, with the route that makes ultra-budget travel possible.
GuideThailand has excellent cheap gear markets. Here's what to buy at Chatuchak weekend market, Decathlon, and MBK — and what not to waste money on.
GuideFive 2-week Thailand itineraries built around what you actually want to do — diving, beaches, culture, nightlife, or family travel — with specific routes, costs, and tips.
GuideGood news — Thailand has no COVID entry requirements in 2026. No vaccine proof, no tests, no forms. Here's what you do need to enter Thailand.
GuideComprehensive guide to Thailand's drug laws in 2026. Covers cannabis regulations, penalties for illegal substances, police encounters, and what to do if arrested.
GuideEmergency numbers, embassy contacts, and step-by-step guides for stolen passports, arrests, hospitalization, and every crisis scenario in Thailand.
GuideA compact first aid kit for Thailand backpackers — what's cheap to buy at Thai pharmacies vs what to bring from home, with pharmacy phrases for getting help.
GuideComplete health guide for Thailand travelers — vaccinations, hospitals, insurance, common illnesses, pharmacies, and emergency medical procedures.
GuideBest hospitals in Thailand for tourists. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui hospital list. Costs, English-speaking doctors, emergency numbers, insurance tips.
GuideNan Province, the Mae Hong Son Loop, Koh Lipe, Umphang — Thailand's hidden gems for experienced travelers ready to go beyond Chiang Mai and Koh Phangan.
GuideA women-specific Thailand packing guide covering modest clothing for temples, feminine hygiene availability, safety items, and what you can easily buy in Bangkok.
GuideThailand pharmacies stock antibiotics, antiparasitics, and malaria pills without a prescription. Here's what's available, what it costs, and how to use pharmacies safely.
GuideThailand's rainy season isn't what you think — the Gulf and Andaman coasts have opposite monsoons, meaning great beach weather exists somewhere year-round. Here's how to plan.
GuideEvery common Thailand scam explained — gem scams, tuk-tuk tricks, jet ski damage, and more. How to spot them, avoid them, and what to do if you get caught.
GuideEverything you need to know about traveling solo in Thailand. Covers meeting people, hostels, budgeting, safety, itineraries, and practical tips for solo backpackers.
PostA clear breakdown of Thailand's train classes — which is worth paying for, which is fine for short trips, and why 2nd class AC sleeper is the backpacker sweet spot.
GuideEvery transport option in Thailand explained — trains, buses, flights, ferries, tuk-tuks, and more. Costs, booking tips, and route recommendations for backpackers.
GuideThailand's tap water is not safe to drink anywhere. Here's where to get safe water in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands — plus hydration tips for the heat.
GuideWhy travel insurance is non-negotiable in Thailand. Compare SafetyWing, World Nomads, Heymondo + AXA. Motorbike coverage, claims process, costs explained.
GuideDo you need vaccines for Thailand? Which ones recommended vs optional. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis costs + timeline. Pre-travel checklist.
GuideComplete guide to vegetarian and vegan eating in Thailand: jay food, safe dishes, Thai phrases, city ratings, restaurant picks, and 7-Eleven options.
GuideThailand clothing guide for backpackers. Climate tips, fabrics, what to wear by activity, and local perspectives on tourist fashion.
DestinationChiang Rai guide for backpackers. White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House, Golden Triangle, hill tribe trekking, and the art scene beyond Chiang Mai.
DestinationHua Hin is where Thais go to the beach. Night markets, kitesurfing, national parks, and zero backpacker crowds — all on a $20-35/day budget.
DestinationKanchanaburi guide for backpackers. Bridge over the River Kwai, Erawan Falls, Death Railway, tiger temples controversy, and floating raft houses.
DestinationYour complete guide to Koh Chang: pristine waterfalls, jungle trekking, ethical elephant sanctuaries, world-class diving, and the best backpacker beaches. Less developed, more adventure.
DestinationKoh Lanta guide for backpackers who want beaches without the party scene. Laid-back vibes, snorkeling, Old Town, and the island for travelers who hate crowds.
DestinationEverything you need to know about Koh Phangan's legendary Full Moon Party, plus non-party beaches, yoga retreats, and survival tips for Thailand's ultimate party island.
DestinationKoh Samui budget guide for backpackers. Best beaches, nightlife, day trips to Ang Thong, and how to enjoy Thailand's party island without breaking the bank.
DestinationEverything you need to know about Pai - the laid-back mountain town where backpackers come for 2 days and stay for 2 weeks. Waterfalls, hot springs, the Pai Loop, and that famous hippie vibe.
DestinationPattaya has more to offer than its reputation suggests. Coral islands, water sports, Thai boxing, night markets, and day trips — all on a backpacker budget.
DestinationPhuket backpacker guide - find the real Phuket beyond luxury resorts. Budget beaches, Old Town culture, island hopping, and doing Phuket on $30-50/day.
DestinationRailay Beach is Thailand's premier rock climbing destination, with 700+ routes on towering limestone cliffs, boat-access-only beaches, and a laid-back backpacker vibe. Your complete guide to climbing, beaches, and adventure.
GuideComplete guide to Thailand's seasons, weather patterns, and when to visit for the best experience. Covers dry season, rainy season, regional differences, and monthly breakdowns.
GuideMaster Thailand's transport system - from domestic flights to tuk-tuks. Learn costs, booking tips, and safety advice for trains, buses, ferries, scooters, and local transport.
GuideThe ultimate Thai street food guide for backpackers: 25+ must-try dishes, safety tips, ordering hacks, costs, and where to find the best street food in Thailand.
GuideComplete guide to finding accommodation in Thailand - from ฿200 hostel dorms to monthly apartment rentals. What to expect, what to pay, and how to book.
GuideIs Thailand safe for backpackers? Yes! But knowing common scams, theft prevention, and safety tips will keep your trip worry-free. Essential guide for solo travelers.
GuideEverything you need to know about Thailand visas in 2026: visa-free entry, tourist visas, extensions, border runs, and entry requirements for backpackers and digital nomads.