Thailand Travel Guide: Safety Tips & Travel Advice for Thailand

Travel Guides
Thailand

Travelling to Thailand could be the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re visiting Thailand’s beaches and scenic mountains or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. If you’re travelling to Thailand from Australia, Fast Cover’s Thailand travel guide provides essential travel advice and requirements, safety tips, and practical information to help you plan your trip and navigate Thailand.

Any advice is general advice only and doesn't consider your personal circumstances.

Safety in Thailand

When to Visit Thailand

Health in Thailand

Thai Laws and Customs

Advice for Tourists

Packing for Thailand

Transport in Thailand

Important Contacts

Thailand Travel Advice Level Explained

Wondering if it’s safe to travel to Thailand? Whilst Thailand is a popular destination for Australian travellers, it’s always wise to stay informed about any travel advisories or travel alerts when planning your trip.

Travel Advisories

Before leaving for your trip, make sure to check the latest travel advice for Thailand on the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website for up-to-date travel advisories and entry requirements for Thailand.

Travel Alerts

Fast Cover also monitors travel conditions and issues timely travel alerts to keep our customers informed and updated on situations that may impact their travel to Thailand.

Learn more about how to choose a safe travel destination for your next holiday.

How to Prepare for a Trip to Thailand

Being prepared before you travel to Thailand can help you manage unexpected events more easily. These actionable tips can help you prepare for your holiday to Thailand.

Check Travel Requirements

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and check if you need a visa for Thailand. Entry and visa requirements for Thailand may change depending on the nature and duration of your trip.

Research Thai Destinations

Thailand’s regions boast unique landscapes from island coastlines to mountains and bustling cities like Bangkok. Whether you’re visiting Phuket or Krabi, make sure to research your destinations thoroughly.

Plan Your Activities

From cruises to adventure sports, Thailand offers unique experiences for everyone. Check if your planned activities are covered under your travel insurance policy.

Pack Smart

Thailand’s weather is typically tropical with seasonal variation. Pack accordingly for the regions and season you will be travelling in, as well as for the types of activities you will be doing on your trip to Thailand.

Organise Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for Thailand can provide cover for unexpected events like overseas medical emergencies, trip cancellation, or lost luggage. Fast Cover offers a wide range of policies for Australian travellers that can be customised depending on the travellers' individual needs, so you can make the most of your trip to Thailand.

Travel Documents

Organise your travel documents before you depart for your trip. Keep copies of your itinerary, flight tickets, passport, visas, accommodation details, tour and activity tickets, and any pre-arranged transport tickets. Don't forget your travel insurance policy and emergency assistance contact information.

Safety Advice for Travelling in Thailand

Travelling through Thailand can be thrilling, particularly for younger Aussie travellers. Staying alert and considering safety precautions can make all the difference on your trip to Thailand. Use our Thailand travel guide to stay informed of general risks and safety tips.

Crime and Travel Scams in Thailand

While tourists are generally safe, you may fall victim to petty crime and travel scams. Familiarising yourself with local tourist scams and staying cautious ensures a safer and smoother experience when travelling to Thailand from Australia.

Pickpocketing

Tourists can be targeted by pickpockets in crowded areas like busy markets, public transport hubs, and tourist attractions or major cities. Keep your personal items and valuables close and avoid leaving bags unattended.

Unlicensed Tour Operators

Some unlicensed tour operators may offer tourists cheap trips to popular destinations, but provide substandard services instead. Stick to properly licensed and reputable local operators for long tail boat rides and other excursions.

Inflated Private Transport Costs

Stick to travelling with reputable and licenced taxis and tuk-tuks around Thailand. Agree on costs upfront to prevent issues like rigged taxi meters or inflated charges.

Civil Unrest and Terrorism in Thailand

The security situation in Thailand can be unpredictable so monitor updates from Smartraveller or Fast Cover travel alerts. Large protests occurring in Bangkok and other areas can disrupt travel plans. In case of an emergency, save the contact details for local authorities and emergency services in Thailand.

Safety for Sports and Adventure Activities

From rock climbing and bungee jumping to elephant riding and scuba diving, Thailand offers exciting activities for travellers. Ensure you have the relevant skills and safety equipment for the activities you will be participating in and follow your instructor's safety briefing. Consider taking out travel insurance to provide cover for your chosen activities in Thailand.

Sports and Leisure Activities

Fast Cover’s list of Covered Sports and Leisure Activities provide cover for a wide range of activities.

Adventure Activities

Fast Cover's optional Adventure Pack provides cover for many more adventure activities for an added premium.

Always check the eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Climate and Natural Disasters in Thailand

Thailand’s tropical climate and natural geography create unique weather conditions. Researching your destinations and understanding the potential natural disasters will help you prepare for your trip to Thailand. Remember, Fast Cover’s travel alerts can also provide updates during severe weather events.

Floods

Flooding is common during the wet season from May to October and can cause transport delays impacting your travel plans. Check weather updates and avoid flood-prone regions if rain is forecasted.

Earthquakes

Though less frequent, earthquakes might occur. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with safety procedures in case of an emergency.

Tsunamis

Coastal areas in Thailand can be at risk of tsunamis. Follow safety and evacuation advice from local authorities if staying along the coast in Thailand.

When is the Best Time to Visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand depends on your interests and weather preferences. Thailand has a humid tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round. The cool season is ideal for beach days, exploring cities, or hiking through national parks. The wet season can be a good time to enjoy lush landscapes or quieter rural areas.

Season	Wet Season	Cool Season	Hot Season
Months	May - October	November - February	March - May
Weather Conditions	The rainy season has plenty of rainfall, particularly in the mountainous regions.	Average temperature is cooler and there is less rainfall.	Temperatures and humidity rise during the hot season.

Popular Activities in Thailand During the Wet Season

Popular activities during the wet season include indoor sightseeing such as visiting temples and museums, wandering the shopping malls, relaxing in a spa and exploring the culinary world of Thailand through cooking classes.

Popular Activities in Thailand During the Cool Season

Popular activities during Thailand’s cool season include hiking and trekking, exploring national parks like Doi Inthanon National Park and Khao Yai National Park and relaxing by the beaches of Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui.

Public Holidays in Thailand

Knowing Thailand's public holidays helps you avoid peak travel times, crowded tourist attractions, and higher travel costs, but also lets you plan to be part of festive seasonal events. It also ensures you're aware of potential closures and cultural events to help plan your itinerary.

Expand to see the dates for some of the key public holidays in Thailand.

Date	Official Public Holiday
January 1	New Year's Day
February 12	Makha Bucha
April 6	Chakri Day
April 13, 14, 15	Songkran Festival
April 16	Songkran Festival (Observed)
May 1	Labor Day
May 4	Coronation Day
May 9	Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day
May 11	Visakha Bucha
June 2	Bridge Public Holiday
June 3	Queen Suthida's Birthday
July 10	Asalha Bucha
July 11	Buddhist Lent Day
July 28	The King's Birthday
August 12	Queen Mother's Birthday
October 23	Chulalongkorn Day
December 5	Father's Day
December 31	New Year's Eve

Expand All

Ready to Embark on your Thai Adventure?

Explore the benefits and cover options available with Fast Cover’s travel insurance for your trip to Thailand.

Health Advice for Travelling to Thailand

Here’s what you need to know about health risks, healthcare, and medication when travelling in Thailand.

Health Risks when Travelling in Thailand

There are some health risks to be aware of before you travel to Thailand:

Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning

Beware of drink-spiking and avoid homemade cocktails and leaving your drinks unattended. Methanol may be used in unregulated alcohol production and is highly toxic. Avoid unlicensed alcoholic beverages and seek medical attention immediately if you suspect methanol poisoning.

Disease Outbreaks

Dengue Fever, Malaria and Zika Virus are mosquito-borne viral infections posing risks to travellers, particularly during the wet season from May to October. Wear long sleeve clothing and mosquito repellent to minimise risk.

Allergies

Soy, prawns and shellfish are common food allergens in Thailand. Use translation apps, check labels carefully and ensure you have your medication on hand in case of food allergies.

Tap Water

Avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled or filtered water.

Pollution

Thailand has high levels of pollution with major cities experiencing haze. Poor air quality can worsen lung, asthma and sinus conditions so minimize outdoor activity if air quality is poor.

Healthcare in Thailand

For those who stay in Thailand, modern healthcare is accessible in larger cities, while travellers in rural areas may face limited facilities leaving you at risk in medical emergencies. Emergency medical and hospital expenses can become costly for travellers.

Fast Cover's Medical Benefits

Fast Cover’s international travel insurance policies include:

overseas 24/7 emergency medical assistance,
overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses,
overseas emergency dental, and
overseas emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

to help cover you if you become unexpectedly injured or sick while in Thailand.

Travel Insurance for Existing Medical Conditions

If you have an existing medical condition, Fast Cover may be able to provide some cover. You’ll need to complete a medical screening process online or call our Aussie based sales team.

To find out more about our medical screening process, and how the policy will apply in relation to an existing medical condition, please read and consider the PDS for eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits that apply.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Medication in Thailand

On your visit make sure your medication is legal by checking with authorities before travelling. When travelling to Thailand from Australia with medication, be aware that some medications may require special permits or customs clearance to bring them into Thailand. A reliable travel guide can help locate important information on rules about restricted medications. Follow these steps to prepare for travelling to Thailand with medication and avoid potential issues at customs:

Check Thailand’s Medication Regulations

Contact the Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra or visit the Thai Government Ministry of Public Health website to verify if your medication is allowed and stay up to date as these requirements may change over time.

Obtain a Permit for Restricted Medications

You may need to apply for a permit or customs clearance for some medicines before entering Thailand.

Carry Documentation

Bring your prescription, a letter explaining the purpose of the medication from your doctor and keep medications in their original packaging.

Travel Limits

Bring the amount of medication you will need for your stay in Thailand, ensuring the amount of medication matches what’s stated on your prescription and documentation.

Thai Laws and Customs for Travellers

Understanding laws and customs in Thailand will help you avoid misunderstandings with locals and local authorities. Keep in mind that travel insurers generally don’t cover you when your claim arises from breaking the law, so it’s best to familiarise yourself with Thai laws before your trip to Thailand.

Obeying Local Laws When Travelling Through Thailand

Respecting local laws is important for a trouble-free trip to Thailand. Below are a few common tips to follow to avoid legal trouble.

Registration and Identification

If you stay in Thailand for an extended period, you must register your residence with immigration authorities. Hotels usually handle this for guests, but those staying in private accommodations should ensure their host submits the information to local authorities.

Use and Possession of Drugs and Alcohol

Thailand enforces strict laws on drugs and public alcohol consumption. Penalties for drug possession include imprisonment or fines, and excessive drinking in public can result in detainment.

Traffic Offences

If you plan to drive, rent a vehicle or ride a motorbike in Thailand, ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), a local licence if required as well as your Australian driver's licence. Follow local traffic rules, including speed limits and safety requirements such as fastening seatbelts and wearing helmets.

Social Customs in Thailand

Respect and etiquette are important in Thai culture. Follow these tips to help navigate social situations in Thailand.

Common Greetings and Gestures

The “wai” gesture is a slight bow with palms pressed together used to show respect. Use the wai to say hello, goodbye or thank you.

Clothing

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. For example, sleeveless tops and shorts are not typically acceptable in religious sites so aim to cover your shoulders and knees.

Food and Restaurant Etiquette

Avoid pointing with utensils in restaurants. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Thailand.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Travelling to Thailand

Australians can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, but longer stays require a visa. Check current requirements before your stay.

For travel related to work or business, travellers must obtain a non-immigrant visa. This includes the requirement to secure a work permit for employment during your stay. Ensure all documentation meets local regulations to avoid complications with authorities.

Starting from 1st May 2025, foreigners including Australian travellers entering the country by air, land or sea will be required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online, within 72 hours or 3 days of their scheduled arrival date to Thailand. For more details, visit our Thailand entry and visa requirements page.

Passport Requirements in Thailand

Australian travellers must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond entry into Thailand. Make sure to renew your passport in advance to avoid travel disruptions. Read our article on passport safety tips to learn how keep your passport safe while travelling in Thailand.

It is important to note that your travel insurance policy may not provide cover if you do not comply with Thailand’s visa or other entry requirements. To help ensure you are prepared for your trip, you should research and understand the relevant entry conditions before you travel.

Advice for Tourists Travelling in Thailand

Travelling to Thailand offers incredible experiences, but it’s important to be well-informed about practical details like what to pack, currency, staying connected and transport. For more information, visit the official Thai tourism website.

Currency in Thailand

Thailand uses the Thai Baht (THB).You can convert currency at banks or exchange counters and use a currency converter to check exchange rates before your trip.

Common Payment Methods in Thailand

While cash remains a commonly used payment method, digital wallets and digital payment apps, such as LINE Pay, TrueMoney and PromptPay are becoming popular in Thailand. Check if these apps are compatible with your bank before travelling to Thailand.

A mix of cash and digital payment methods would be a good option to consider, particularly if you are travelling to rural areas.

Internet and Wi-Fi in Thailand

You can access the internet in Thailand by purchasing a local SIM card from popular providers like DARC, AIS or TrueMove H, renting a pocket Wi-Fi device or using free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and airports.

Mobile Phones and eSIMs in Thailand

If you’re using a mobile phone in Thailand, check if your provider offers international roaming. Alternatively, you can purchase an eSIM or local SIM card for data and calls, at airports, electronics stores, or online before your trip.

Travel Adaptors and Electronics

Thailand operates on a 220V supply and uses Plug Type A, B, C and F. Pack a universal travel adaptor or one compatible with Thai outlets to keep your electronic devices charged. Consider a portable power strip with USB ports if you are travelling with multiple devices.

What Should You Pack for a Trip to Thailand?

Planning what to pack for Thailand ahead of time will ensure you’re well-prepared and have taken measures for a stress-free holiday when it comes time to go. Here’s our guide on what to pack for your holiday to Thailand.

Seasonal and Regional Packing

Thailand’s climate is tropical but wet and dry seasons may impact what you will need to pack, so tailor your clothing to the weather and activities you will be participating in. Use a TSA-approved luggage lock and set a unique pin to keep your luggage secure. Add a tracking tag to keep track of your luggage location. These small measures can reduce the risk of potential loss or theft.

Wet Season

Pack rain gear for the rainy season including an umbrella or light raincoat and enclosed shoes. Opt for layers, including thermal innerwear, scarves, gloves, hats.

Dry Season

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, layers, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Luggage and Personal Effects Insurance

Fast Cover’s luggage and personal effects benefit may provide cover for theft, loss, or damage to your luggage and personal items. If you’re travelling to Thailand with high value items, you can declare many of them as specified high-value items to help cover them for more than what they are currently covered for under the standard policy terms and conditions.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Transport in Thailand: Getting Around Thailand

Thailand offers a variety of transport options to suit every traveller’s needs. Whether you're exploring bustling Bangkok or the islands of Koh Samui, here’s what you need to know about getting around in Thailand.

Riding a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter in Thailand

Exploring Thailand on two wheels offers a unique and thrilling way to experience the country's diverse landscapes and iconic motorcycle loops like the Mae Hong Son Loop.

Before hopping on a motorcycle, scooter or moped in Thailand, ensure you’re familiar with local road laws and have the correct licenses and permits, including an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). Make sure to wear safety gear, such as a helmet and protective clothing including enclosed shoes and gloves.

Rental Vehicles in Thailand

Renting a vehicle in Thailand offers freedom and flexibility to explore rural areas and national parks at your own pace. Consider if your travel insurance policy covers your rental vehicle excess.

Buses and Trains

For intercity travel, Thailand’s buses and trains including the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are affordable, fast and reliable making them ideal for avoiding traffic. VIP buses are great for longer journeys, while sleeper trains are a scenic way to travel overnight between popular tourist destinations like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Check schedules and book tickets in advance through platforms like 12Go Asia.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

Metered taxis are widely available in cities, but always ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. Ride-sharing apps like Grab, Bolt and inDrive are popular budget alternatives for travellers. Ensure you download the apps and connect your payment method before arriving in Thailand.

Boats and Ferries

In coastal areas and islands, ferries and long-tail boats are essential for getting around. Bangkok also has river taxis along the Chao Phraya River, offering a unique way to explore the city. For those visiting Koh Samui or other islands, ferries are a key part of Thailand’s transport network. Visit Lomprayah or Seatran Ferry for ferry schedules and bookings.

Driving Permits and License Requirements

To drive in Thailand, travellers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their valid license. IDPs can be obtained in Australia before departure. Ensure you carry your IDP, Australian driver’s licence, and rental vehicle insurance at all times.

man wearing helmet riding yellow scooter

Coverage for Riders with Fast Cover's Motorcycle Pack

Fast Cover’s Motorcycle Pack is an optional extra available under our International policies that may provide cover to you for being the rider or passenger on a:

Motorcycle,

Moped, or

Scooter.

Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess Benefit

Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess benefit may provide cover for the rental vehicle excess component of your rental vehicle insurance with your car hire company in Thailand, up to the specified limit in your travel insurance policy. This benefit applies to a:

Sedan, hatchback, or station wagon,

Four-wheel drive or minibus/people mover, or

A campervan or motorhome (up to 4.5 tonnes),

rented from a licensed motor vehicle rental company (including vehicles rented from peer-to-peer carsharing platforms).

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Important Contact Information in Thailand

Having the right contact information on hand can make all the difference in an emergency. Save these essential details before your trip to Thailand.

Thailand International Country Code: +66

This code is vital if someone needs to reach you on a Thai mobile number, especially when using services like an eSIM. For example, dial +66 followed by the local number (dropping the initial 0) to make a call.

Emergency Contacts in Thailand

Police: 191

Fire and Rescue: 199

Ambulance and Medical Emergency: 1669

Government Contacts

Thai Consulate in Australia

Website: Royal Thai Consulate-General Sydney
Phone Number: +61 2 9241 2542 (Sydney Consulate-General)

Thai Embassy in Australia

Website: Royal Thai Embassy Canberra
Phone Number: +61 2 6206 0100 (Canberra Embassy)

Fast Cover 24/7 Emergency Assistance

In Australia: 02 8320 7999

Overseas: +61 2 8320 7999

Email: emergency@fastcover.com.au (monitored 24/7)

FAQs

Is it safe to travel to Thailand?

Whilst Thailand is a popular destination for Australian travellers, changing civil, political and climate conditions may change as to whether it is considered safe to travel to Thailand. It’s important to stay informed about local conditions and follow safety advice from the Australian Government via Smartraveller and any travel alerts issued by your travel insurance provider.

What is the currency in Thailand?

The official currency is the Thai Baht (฿). While cash remains a commonly used payment method, digital wallets and digital payment apps, such as LINE Pay, TrueMoney and PromptPay are becoming popular in Thailand. A mix of cash and digital payment methods are recommended for travelling to Thailand.

When is the ideal time to travel to Thailand?

The ideal time to visit Thailand depends on your interests and the activities you prefer to do as the climate varies by season. Thailand has a tropical climate and experiences a wet season and a dry season. Researching activities and regions will help you decide on the best time to travel to Thailand.

What do I need before travelling to Thailand?

Before you travel to Thailand from Australia, make sure to research your travel destinations and the activities you will do in Thailand so that you can pack accordingly. Ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements. Consider purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Thailand. Fast Cover offers travel insurance policies that can be customised with optional extras to suit many travellers travel plans to Thailand.

What is the best travel insurance for Thailand?

The best travel insurance policy for your trip to Thailand is a policy that provides cover for the type of trip that you’re taking. When looking for the best travel insurance for Thailand, it’s important to choose a travel insurance policy that aligns with your specific travel needs. This might include the nature of your trip to Thailand, who you are travelling with, the types of activities you plan to do and other considerations that apply to you and your trip.

Here are some examples of things you may wish to consider when reviewing policy options:

Have you booked your Thailand tour, accommodation or flights? You may wish to consider whether the policy includes cancellation cover in case you can’t travel to Thailand due to an unforeseen circumstance such as an unexpected illness or injury.
Have you just bought a new phone and you’re worried that it will be stolen in Thailand? You may wish to consider whether the policy includes cover for luggage and personal effects, including any applicable limits, sub-limits or conditions.
Will you be riding or be a passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter in Thailand? You may wish to check whether the policy provides cover for injuries resulting from those activities, and what conditions (such as licencing requirements or helmet use) may apply.
Will you be doing adventurous activities like riding a quad bike or zip lining in Thailand? You might wish to consider whether your policy provides cover for these activities or whether you need to add cover and pay an additional premium to include cover for those activities.

These are just some of the considerations that you might wish to consider when looking for the best travel insurance policy for Thailand, so you know what cover is available to you before and during your trip to Thailand.

Before you decide on the best travel insurance for Thailand, you should read the PDS to check what the policy will and won’t cover you for, any conditions and exclusions that might apply to you and whether the policy provides the cover that you’re looking for.  

Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs.

Thailand Travel Hub

Discover travel resources, advice and tips for your next holiday to Thailand.

Thailand Visa Requirements

Thailand visa requirements vary for short-term tourism, work or study. Learn about visa requirements for Thailand and new changes to the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before travelling to Thailand from Australia.

How to Choose a Safe Travel Destination

Safety is a key concern whenever you travel overseas. If you're planning a holiday, here are a few tips Fast Cover have compiled to help choose a safe destination where you can relax and enjoy yourself.

Travel Insurance for Thailand

Whether you’re enjoying the vibrant street life in Bangkok, relaxing by the water in Phuket or riding a scooter to hidden temples, Fast Cover’s Thailand travel insurance offers different levels of cover to suit many types of travel in Thailand.