Helpful advice and insider knowledge, to help you make your Thailand adventure smoother, safer and more relaxing. From packing essentials to cultural etiquette, find practical tips that help you travel with confidence

CategoriesTips and insights By Tokay Tours

Essential Travel Guide to Thailand: Visas, TDAC, Insurance & More

Please note! this is a guide and not definitive travel advice, please make sure you do your own checks and decide what is best for you and your family before travel.

Travel Guide to Thailand: Visas, TDAC, Insurance, Money & More.

Thailand remains one of the world’s favourite destinations, but before you pack your bags to enjoy it’s beaches, jungles and temples, you’ll need to meet the latest entry requirements. The good news is, for most nationalities it is refreshingly straight forward.
In 2025, the rules have evolved with new visa options and the introduction of a digital arrival system (TDAC). Here’s a clear guide to help you prepare for your trip.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Thailand

Every foreign visitor needs either a visa or an entry permit to cross the border. The right option depends on your nationality, purpose of travel, and length of stay.

  • Visa Exemption Scheme: Citizens of 90+ countries (including the UK, EU, US, and Australia) can currently enter visa-free for up to 60 days, with the option to extend by 30 days at a Thai immigration office. The government has announced plans to reduce this to 30 days later in 2025, so check before traveling.

  • Visa on Arrival (VOA): If your nationality isn’t covered by the exemption scheme, you may qualify for a 15-day visa on arrival at airports and land borders. You’ll need cash in Thai baht, a return ticket, and a valid passport.

  • Tourist Visas: For longer visits, apply for a Single-Entry Tourist Visa (60 days, extendable once) or a Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (valid six months, each stay capped at 60 days).

Long-Term Visa Options

If you plan to stay longer or return frequently, Thailand offers special long-term visas:

  • Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) – Designed for digital nomads, freelancers, and cultural participants. Valid for 5 years, allowing stays of 180 days per entry, extendable once. This makes it possible to remain in Thailand for almost a year before leaving and re-entering.

  • Thailand Privilege Visa – Formerly the Elite Visa, this is a premium, long-term residency option. Available in 5–20 year packages, it includes multiple entry, one-year stays per visit, and perks like fast-track immigration, airport lounges, and discounts on leisure services.

Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

As of May 1, 2025, the old paper TM6 form is gone. All visitors must now complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before entering the country, whether arriving by air, land, or sea.

You’ll need to submit details such as your passport number, flight information, and accommodation address up to three days before arrival. Without it, you risk long delays at immigration, or even being refused entry. Keep a screenshot or printout of your confirmation to show at the border.

Money Matters in Thailand

Thailand is still largely a cash-based society, but things are changing fast, especially in places like Khao Lak, where even local markets are starting to accept digital payments through QR codes, card readers, and mobile tap-to-pay. That said, cash remains essential for street food, small shops, souvenirs and tips.
ATMs are easy to find everywhere, though most charge a flat fee of THB 220 per withdrawal (around £5 or $7), so it’s worth bringing a debit or credit card that doesn’t pile on its own international charges.
For the best exchange rates, skip the airport and hotel counters and change your money at one of the many kiosks in Khao Lak itself, which usually offer the going market rate. You will also find these kiosks in many other destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi.

In terms of budgeting, Thailand caters to all wallets: a street meal can be as little as THB 50–100 (£1–£2), while a sit-down meal in a local restaurant often falls between THB 150–300 (£3–£7). Larger hotels and tourist-oriented restaurants will happily take cards, but for everything else, it’s best to carry a mix of cash and a card that works well abroad.

CategoriesTips and insights By Tokay Tours

Is it Safe to Go to Thailand?

Thailand is one of the world’s favourite travel destinations, drawing millions of visitors every year with its golden beaches, lively cities and deep cultural traditions. For most travellers it is a safe and welcoming country where things run smoothly as long as you use a bit of common sense.
Pickpocketing and tourist scams can happen in busy places such as Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya, but if you stay alert and pay attention they are easy to avoid. The bigger concern for many travellers is road safety. If you decide to hire a scooter or a car, always wear a helmet, drive cautiously and check that your travel insurance covers accidents.
Respecting local laws and customs is another way to keep your trip stress free. Be aware of rules around drugs, smoking, vaping, and remember the importance of showing respect for the monarchy, religion and local people. A smile and a polite attitude will get you much further than raising your voice or showing frustration.
With a little preparation, some travel sense and an open heart, you will find Thailand every bit as safe, welcoming and unforgettable as you imagined

.

Two girls strolling by a line of parked tuk tuks, laughing and having fun

Petty Crime

The most common issues travellers encounter are relatively minor, but they can spoil your experience if you are not prepared. Pickpocketing tends to happen in crowded nightspots where alcohol is involved and people are less alert, rather than in resorts or smaller towns. If you plan to enjoy Thailand’s nightlife, simply keep an eye on your belongings, drink responsibly and you should be fine. In more relaxed destinations such as Khao Lak, Krabi, Chiang Mai or Ayutthaya, incidents are far less frequent and in many cases non existent.
Overcharging on motorbike or jet ski rentals is another complaint visitors sometimes share. It is not unusual for companies to claim damage that was already there. The best way to protect yourself is to rent from a reputable company, take clear photos of the vehicle before you set off and never hand over your passport or driving licence. A photocopy is more than adequate.

For more information, see Common Scams in Thailand from Siam-Legal.com

A girls sits on a swing, turquoise water and limestone karsts in the background

Thai-Cambodia  Border Situation

The places where tensions occur are remote rural districts in the northeast. They are hundreds of kilometres away from the beaches, islands and cultural sites that make up the usual travel route. It would take a very deliberate effort to go anywhere near them. For the average visitor, there is no reason to even pass close. That is why airlines, hotels and tour operators continue to welcome guests without disruption, but it is always worth checking the latest updates and travel advice from government sources.

General Safety in Thailand

The roads in Thailand are busy and accidents are unfortunately common. If you decide to hire a scooter or a car, always wear a helmet, drive cautiously and never underestimate local traffic. Make sure your travel insurance covers driving and medical care in case of an accident. Public transport, tuk tuks  and taxis are good alternatives if you are unsure about driving yourself . Public transport is widely used and feels secure, especially in cities and tourist areas. Healthcare standards are high in major centres, which is reassuring if you are travelling with family.
The Thai sun is strong and burns can happen quickly, even on cloudy days. Always use sunscreen and reapply it regularly, especially after swimming. If you are planning to snorkel or dive, choose reef safe sunscreen to help protect the marine environment. A hat and lightweight clothing also go a long way to keeping you comfortable.
Mosquitoes are part of life in tropical countries and Thailand is no exception. In most tourist areas the risk of serious mosquito borne illness is low, but bites can still be irritating. Bring a good repellent, especially if you are visiting rural or forested areas, and consider long sleeves in the evening. Hotels and guesthouses usually provide mosquito nets or screened rooms.
Thailand is home to monkeys, snakes, lizards and a variety of insects. Most encounters are harmless but it pays to keep a respectful distance. Do not feed wild animals and avoid leaving food unattended on balconies or beaches. If you are hiking or visiting national parks, stick to marked trails and listen to local guides.

A Practical Approach

Thailand has built it’s reputation on hospitality, has excellent healthcare in major cities and tourist areas, which is one reason the country is popular for medical tourism. Even so, it is better not to need it. Stay hydrated, eat from busy food stalls and restaurants where the food is freshly prepared, and pace yourself if you are not used to the heat.
Like any trip abroad you are responsible for your own health and safety. Take care on the roads, respect local customs, protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes, and give wildlife space. Do that and you will find the country every bit as warm, beautiful and memorable as you hoped.