Are you planning a holiday in Thailand, but you are not sure whether to choose a tour package or go on your own? I have a clear answer for you: Thailand without a tour package is the best choice! Whether you are an adventurer, a digital nomad or a beginner traveler. Trust me, Thailand will welcome you with open arms.

It is a country of contrasts, tastes, smells and smiling people. From the bustling streets of Bangkok, to the sacred places of the north to the turquoise sea in the south. It is no wonder that it is one of the most popular destinations for individual travelers. Why? Because in Thailand everything is possible and everything can be arranged. Thanks to the excellent infrastructure, cheap services and friendly people, it is ideal for a “do-it-yourself” holiday.

If you speak at least a little English, you don’t have to worry about traveling in Thailand at all. But it’s good to be prepared and you just need to follow a few basic rules. Here are 12 tips on how to enjoy Thailand to the fullest. In short, on your own and without stress. You will understand why you should travel to Thailand without a travel agency. And believe me, there is something for everyone. Whether you like being on the beach, in the mountains, with a backpack, in luxury or looking for spiritual peace.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO THAILAND WITHOUT A TICKET

My first more exotic trip was to Thailand. Personally, I think it’s an Asian country for beginners. We planned the trip so that we stayed a few days in Bangkok and spent a lot of time on the island of Koh Samui. By the way, did you know that third season of the series White Lotuswas filmed here White Lotus? I also recommend you watch the series “The Believers” non Netflix, which will explain how Thais deal with faith and how easy it is to become a monk. Of course, you can’t miss the cult film The Beach with Leonardo Di Caprio. And it was then, after my first visit to Thailand, that I decided that I would travel alone forever. Well, not completely alone, but without a travel agency. Because I think I can handle it perfectly. If I prepare for the trip, then completely without any problems!

Traveling on your own will cost you significantly less than a tour with a travel agency. You can find discounted airfares, and choose accommodation according to your budget – from a simple bungalow on the beach to a stylish boutique hotel. Without a travel agency commission, you will save thousands of crowns. I am convinced that if you decide to go to Thailand without a travel agency, it is not about courage, but about preparation. The good news is that most of it can be solved for you today with a mobile phone, the internet and a little common sense.

BEFORE YOU GO, PREPARE YOURSELF

Don’t expect a perfect plan. Or even a plan. In Thailand, they say: “Mai pen rai“. That’s something like “it’s fine, no stress“. The bus isn’t running? It’s not running. Did it arrive two hours early? So is Thailand. Have a general plan, but be prepared to improvise. That’s half the fun you’ll have here.

1. DOWNLOAD THE MOST USEFUL APPS

📱 Most travelers in Thailand today can’t go without these apps:

Grab – Thai Uber. Cheap and safe transportation around cities (cars, scooters and food).

12Go Asia – A great platform for buying tickets for trains, buses, ferries and domestic flights.

Google Maps / Maps.me – orientation in cities, offline maps and navigation.

Agoda / Booking – booking accommodation anywhere and anytime, often with discounts.

Google Translate – will help with communication and menu translation.

XE Currency – current exchange rate of the baht (THB) against the crown.

Klook / GetYourGuide – for booking trips, tickets and experiences (e.g. Thai cooking class, river cruise or entrance to an elephant reserve

2. FIND OUT YOUR VISA REQUIREMENTS

🇨🇿 For tourist trips to Thailand as citizens of the Czech Republic, you do not need a visa. Just register. in online systém TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) no later than three days before arrival. You will fill in your personal details, travel information and the address of your stay in Thailand. Upon arrival, you will receive a free stamp in your passport, allowing you to stay for up to 60 days.

To enter you need:

Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry. Be careful!
Proof of funds upon request (20,000 THB – 13,000 CZK per person or 40,000 THB – 26,0000 CZK per family)

MY TIP:

Have your return or departure ticket ready, they may want to see it. And also the address of your first accommodation. A completed immigration card form (TM6) – usually digitally upon arrival.

3. BE ON THE RECEPTION! SIM CARD AND INTERNET IN THAILAND

The internet is your best friend. It will help you find accommodation, connections and maybe even what you’re actually eating. 🙂 A Thai SIM card with data costs a few hundred crowns and will save you a lot of nerves.

Best operators: AIS, DTAC, TrueMove

Buy a tourist SIM card right at the airport: e.g. 15 GB of data for 15 days for around 300 CZK

Or eSIM in advance via Airalo, Nomad, etc.

MY TIP:

And how did I do it? My experience from traveling around Asia is that it is always cheaper to get a SIM card right at the airport.

4. ABSOLUTE FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT.

TRANSPORTATION IS CHEAP AND EASY

Have you ever thought to yourself, “I wish I could stay longer here because you just discovered a great café or beach?” No problem. Without a travel guide, you are the master of your own time and schedule. You can create your own itinerary, without compromise, of course.

In Thailand, you have absolute freedom of movement. There are great connections by train, bus, boat and plane. Apps like Grab, 12Go Asia or Google Maps will help you find your way around. You can buy tickets online or on site. And the prices? Absolutely affordable.

FLIGHTS

If you want to get cheap flights, you will have to buy them a few months in advance and keep an eye on the offers. They can be found more expensive and cheaper, but you have to keep an eye on cheap flights, not have a fixed date and, most importantly, be flexible, not flying from Prague, for example. Honestly, I fly from the Czech Republic because the costs I spend on travel and food are not really worth it to me. And don’t mix airlines too much. If one flight is canceled, you may have trouble finding another one quickly.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO THAILAND

It is worth following events on portals such a Skyscanner, Pelikan , Student Agency or Kiwi.com. And then buy a ticket directly from the airline.

Suvarnabhumi Airport, the pearl of Southeast Asia

Suvarnabhumi Airport is the most modern international airport in the country. It handles 76 flights per hour, 45 million passengers and 3 million tons of cargo per year. So quite a lot. Find out more on the website https://www.airportthai.co.th/en/.

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS IN THAILAND

Domestic flights are provided by companies such as AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air or Bangkok Airways. Prices start at a few hundred crowns. And that’s worth it rather than spending the whole day on a bus if you’re short on time. In Bangkok, domestic flights are often operated from Don Mueang Airport, not the main Suvarnabhumi Airport. Keep this in mind when planning your trips. You’ll need some time for the transfer.

MY TIP:

Overnight flights save you a day and a night. And if you fly with hand luggage, you’ll save even more.

TRAIN

The State Railways of Thailand (SRT) serves all major cities in the country via a 4,500 km network. The trains are divided into three types and three classes. They run very frequently, are exceptionally punctual, clean and comfortable. On longer journeys, you can order food and drinks. Slower trains, which are used for shorter distances, may only have third-class seats.

Three lines connect Chiang Mai (Northern Line), Nong Khai (Southeastern Line) and Singapore via Butterworth and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia (Southern Line). A train line between Bangkok and Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border has recently been opened.

The State Railways of Thailand (SRT) organizes one- or two-day economy trips to various destinations during weekends and holidays. Train timetables can be obtained at Hua Lamphong Central Station in Bangkok. Train tickets for all classes can be purchased 90 days in advance at the main stations and at the Advance Booking Office at Hua Lamphong between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Or check out the website www.railway.co.th

BUS

Bus travel is a cheap option, but the comfort varies. VIP buses are quite comfortable, regular buses are more for the adventurous.

Most of them are buses with fans and air conditioning. So always have a sweatshirt or sweater on hand. Don’t freeze!

There are three main bus terminals in Bangkok. The Northern Bus Terminal is located on Kamphaengphet 2 Road, the Southern Bus Terminal on Pinklao-Nakhon Chaisi Road and the Eastern Bus Terminal on Sukhumvit Soi 62. For more information, visit www.transport.co.th

SCOOTER

For local travel, a scooter is ideal, provided you know how to ride one, so be careful! If you want to rent a motorbike in Thailand, you must have an international driving license. In Thailand, driving is on the left and traffic in the big cities is very busy, Thai roads are dangerous and without a driver’s license you risk not only a fine, but also that your insurance company will not cover any damages.

SHIP

Thailand has two main coastal areas. The Gulf of Thailand coast and the islands and coastlines in the Andaman Sea. In addition, Thailand has many rivers and canals. An interesting experience is a boat trip on the Mekong River, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

If you can’t get to your dream island directly by plane, you can get there comfortably by speed boat or classic long-tail boat. There are many transport companies in Thailand that can provide you with both a train or bus ticket from Bangkok and a connecting boat ticket. You can of course also buy the speed boat ticket itself. Everything can now be bought online.

3. DISCOVER THE REAL THAILAND. HAVE AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES OFF THE TOURIST TRAIL

While travel agencies will take you to the “must-see” attractions, you can find hidden treasures on your own. Local markets, a temple that tourists don’t visit, a beach that you have all to yourself, or a restaurant where your grandmother cooks according to the family recipe.

When you are not in a tourist resort, you have a better chance of experiencing authentic Thai life. You will get to know Buddhism and festivals that you often miss with a travel guide. The best things in Thailand come unexpectedly. It could be an encounter with a monk, a spontaneous sunset on a boat, a local who gives you a ride on a scooter. These are the moments you would not often experience with a travel agency. And they are what make traveling on your own worth it.

4. THAILAND IS SAFE AND FRIENDLY. RESPECT LOCAL CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

Every country has its traditions and places that are not affected by tourism and still retain their original character, lifestyle and atmosphere. Thais are known for their hospitality and smiles. Even if you don’t speak perfect English, you can communicate with your hands, feet and mobile phone. Traveling in Thailand without a travel document is safe even for solo travelers or women on the go.

In Thailand, it is definitely worth going to local villages and getting to know the daily life of the locals. Each area is unique in some way, each village is specific in some way. You don’t have to spend your visit to Thailand just in a hotel complex or in frequented tourist destinations. If you are looking for an unusual experience, don’t be afraid to ask the locals where it is worth going. And discover Thailand as it really is – colorful, unique, smiling and always pleasantly surprising.

BUDDHISM AND RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE

Religious tolerance in Thailand is more than just a statement of faith. It is a deeply rooted attitude at the heart of everyday life. You can find members of different religions in families, yet they all participate together in traditional ceremonies and holidays. This shows mutual respect.

Buddhism, which professes a philosophy of peace and harmony, is firmly rooted in Thai culture, which forms the basis for a unique atmosphere of religious tolerance. The Buddha’s teachings, with their emphasis on kindness, compassion and impartiality, permeate the daily lives of Thais, who find meaning and inspiration in this religion.

Buddhism is not only a religion, but also a lifestyle based on the teachings of the Indian thinker Buddha, who encourages the fulfillment of one’s life tasks, compassion for other living beings, rejection of the use of violence and encouragement to overcome one’s own suffering. Thanks to this, Buddhism is probably one of the most tolerant religions and is capable of coexisting with any other religion.

Buddhists go to the temple every day or worship the Buddha statue at home. Buddhist ceremonies take place in a wat, which is a combination of a monastery and a temple, of which there are around 40,000 in Thailand! Of course, their number is growing.

5. EAT ON THE STREET, GREAT FOOD IS AVAILABLE ON EVERY CORNER

Anyone who has been to Thailand knows that the local street food is divine. Thais get up early in the morning and rush to the market to buy the freshest pieces. In daylight, it is better to choose than in the artificial brightness of the supermarket and the prices are also favorable. The ubiquitous stands with dishes of all tastes and aromas are also famous.

You will soon discover that street food in Thailand is simply great. And you will not be alone. It is not just tourists who taste noodles or fantastic soups at the stalls. During the week, serious gentlemen and ladies in suits and costumes also head to the plastic tables. At the stall, you can best enjoy mango dessert with sweet sticky rice (mango and sticky rice), Pad Thai noodles in a thousand ways or meat, vegetable and fish skewers or coconut soup. You choose where and what you will eat and without the restrictions of hotel half board.

6. FLEXIBILITY IN PLANNING. YOU CAN’T DO EVERYTHING AND THAT’S OKAY

Want to take a day off? Add a trip to Laos or Bali? It’s easy with your own plan. You’re not tied to a fixed date or organized program. You can change the plan according to the weather, your mood and tips from other travelers.

Don’t try to travel the entire north, south, Bangkok and three islands in two weeks. Thailand is not Pokémon! You really don’t have to catch them all. 🙂 Pick one or two main places and leave the rest for next time.

7. ACCOMMODATION ACCORDING TO YOUR BUDGET

In Thailand, everyone can find accommodation according to their budget. From a cheap hostel to a luxury resort with a rooftop pool. Thailand offers countless accommodation options. I usually search through Booking.com. You can try Airbnb or Agoda. Ratings and reviews will help you find exactly what you are looking for. I recommend reading the reviews carefully.

12 TIPŮ, JAK SI UŽÍT THAJSKO NA VLASTNÍ PĚST — This is what our accommodation in Chiang Rai looked like. At the cats’ place. They took the cats here as therapy, but for me it was a nightmare. But otherwise it was all good.

MY TIP:

I don’t trust the stars on Booking.com much. I usually check real photos and reviews on Google. The reviews there seem more realistic to me.

8. NO STRESS FROM AN ORGANIZED PROGRAM

Don’t want to get up at 6 am for a trip when it rained the night before? With a travel agency, you have to. If you’re traveling alone, you’ll say to yourself: “All I need today is a massage, a coconut, and a book.” And you’ll do it. Thailand without a travel agency means no stress, no pressure. You’ll experience more than you expect.

9. CHOOSE THE RIGHT INSURANCE. A THING YOU SHOULD NEVER UNDERESTIMATE!

This is not a tip, but an absolute must. Before you go, get proper travel insurance! And I don’t mean a basic package that doesn’t really cover anything. Do you know how much such transport and subsequent hospitalization costs? Hundreds of thousands! For your trip to Thailand, be sure to get insurance with sufficiently high limits – at least 5 million CZK for medical expenses. Also, make sure that the insurance covers the activities you plan to do (diving, riding a scooter, etc.).

10. DON’T BE “THAT TOURIST”. TRAVEL SAFELY AND AVOID PROBLEMS

When you traveling alone, safety can be one of the biggest concerns. The truth is, most countries are no less safe than our own, and the vast majority of people you meet on your travels will be nice. To help you stay calm and reassure yourself and your loved ones, remember that there are many things you can easily do to travel safely.

A FEW SMALL RULES

You can start by following these principles:

LET PEOPLE KNOW WHERE YOU ARE (Before you leave, be sure to share your approximate itinerary with your family and friends at home, and let them know about any changes that may occur during your trip.)

LEAVE VALUABLES AT HOME (You’re not going to a fashion show! Leave your jewelry and valuables at home. Whenever you’re out and about, keep your money and other valuables on your person (never in your pocket) and don’t leave your belongings unattended or on the seat next to you. It’s simple, it’s about not drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.

DO NOT LEAVE MONEY IN MULTIPLE PLACES (Never carry all your cash or credit cards with you at once. It’s better to leave at least one in your room and only take as much cash with you as you need for the day.)

SCAN/COPY IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS (Don’t forget your passport and other documents, scan or copy them. In case you lose these valuables while traveling and need new ones, these simple tips will probably save you a lot of time and nerves.)

HAVE TWO PASSPORTS (You are entitled to two passports. Therefore, check their validity when you leave and ask for a second one. Put it in a place where if someone steals it, someone at home can send it to you. It is not a cheap matter, but I know from my own experience that it was the only chance to get out of the country and continue your journey when visiting other countries.)

DRINK BOTTLED WATER (Do not drink tap water in Thailand, even by mistake. Fortunately, there are cheap water barrels everywhere, or bring your own filter if you want to be an environmental hero.)

AVOID DRUGS (Despite the recent legalization of marijuana, other drugs are still strictly prohibited in Thailand and the penalties are extremely high.)

DO NOT TAKE UNNECESSARY RISKS (You probably wouldn’t walk alone in an unfamiliar neighborhood in the dark in your own country, would you? Much of what we consider “dangerous” can be easily avoided by acting with caution and trusting your intuition. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Never leave your drink unattended, don’t go out alone at night, don’t provoke by wearing inappropriate clothing that goes against local customs, and don’t go on strange-sounding trips with strangers.)

MY CHOICE:

I actually discovered it by accident, but now I can’t let it go. It’s a small wallet in the shape of a map. It’s so trustworthy that no one would think of stealing it from you. The only downside is that you can’t really put coins in it. I usually keep them separately.

You can buy the wallet at my favorite store Pod 7 kilo – here. In Bali, the stores were selling it, and whenever I took it out, everyone asked me where I could buy it.

11. LEAVE SPACE IN YOUR BACKPACK, BECAUSE THERE WILL BE SHOPPING!

Thailand is a shopping paradise and also a souvenir collector’s trap. The main rule, as with all trips, is: “Don’t take too much!” It may seem like an impossible task, but if you only take the most important things with you, you can buy the rest in Thailand. I no longer carry full backpacks with me and I have learned to pack in such a way that there is always some space left in a small carry-on suitcase or backpack. But it’s true that it took me quite a while.

And what about packing for Thailand? It couldn’t be easier. You’ll need less than you think.

DON’T FORGET

CLOTHES (take only the most necessary things, they will dry quickly in the sun and you can wash them cheaply or just buy them) + SWIMSUIT

COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES (I usually leave all the fancy stuff aside and choose shoes that I am comfortable in – sturdy shoes that I wear on the plane, sandals, flip-flops)

BASIC MEDICINES (medicines for diarrhea, painkillers, plasters) + MOSQUITO REPELLENT (I usually buy this directly on site now)

SUNSCREEN (it is not the cheapest in Thailand) + a small COSMETIC BAG (Thailand is a paradise for cosmetics, so if you do not need any special ones, you can buy everything here. From Thai, Korean, Japanese to the ones sold in Europe.)

POWER ADAPTER (in Thailand they use the same ones as here, but some hotels have British or American ones sockets)

A LIGHTWEIGHT SCARF (it will come in handy when visiting temples. Or buy one directly in Thailand, like I do. It’s a very nice souvenir.)

A SMALL SPOON (I take this every time, it comes in handy when you want to buy yogurt, for example)

ELECTRONICS (charger, headphones)

Don’t pack clothes for more than a week in your luggage and choose ones that you can mix and match well. As for toiletries, take only a small pack. In Thailand, there is a drugstore on every corner, and especially in Asia, you can find a 7-Eleven, where you can buy the most necessary things.

And above all, remember that you are not flying to Mars! Anything you forget at home, i.e. a phone charger, something for hygiene, non-prescription medications, or a piece of clothing, can all be easily purchased in the place you are going.

12. SMILE. ALWAYS. IT REALLY WORKS

In Thailand, a smile is the key to everything. Better food, cheaper prices, the open hearts of the locals. You don’t have to speak perfect English. But if you smile and bow, Thailand will open its arms to you.

Thailand without a tour guide is the best way to discover a true paradise. And traveling on your own is easier, cheaper and more rewarding than you think. You don’t have to be an experienced backpacker – all you need is a little courage and a desire to explore. Thailand will surprise you with its friendliness, affordability and beauty. If you crave adventure, flexibility and freedom, Thailand without a tour guide is just for you. So, when do you pack?