Finding the Best Deals in Thailand

[CharlieH]

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Messenger Share via Email

 

 PHOTO: Thailand by Mathew Schwartz, Unsplash

 

Navigating the myriad of myths and misconceptions about bagging the best hotel deals can be a tricky task, especially when planning a trip to a popular destination like Thailand. With the advent of the Internet age, the travel landscape has transformed significantly, rendering some traditional methods obsolete. This article aims to debunk those outdated notions and arm you with savvy tips to secure the best deals.

Understanding the seasonal dynamics of hotel rates in Thailand can be a game-changer. Most establishments adjust their prices according to tourist influx, with rates peaking from November to April. However, a little flexibility and indifference to a bit of rain could see you saving a significant chunk of your budget.

Booking your flight well in advance and choosing to travel on cheaper weekdays are other smart strategies to consider. Stick around as we delve deeper into these tips and more, to help you plan a cost-effective, unforgettable Thai adventure.

 

How to find the best deal in Thailand

Contents

• How to find the best deal in Thailand
  • Fly to Thailand on weekdays
  • Compare before booking trip
  • Avoid peak season
  • Take public transport or hire a motorbike
  • Eat like a local
  • Ask help for the locals
  • Get the in-depth budget guide
  • Bargaining in markets in Thailand
• Benefits of having promotions

PHOTO: Markus Spiske, Unsplash

Fly to Thailand on weekdays

A substantial financial saving occurs when scheduling flights to Thailand on off-peak days. Tuesdays stand out as the cheapest day for travel in the week. Prices inch up on popular travel days, especially weekends. Remember, flexibility in travel dates opens up a treasure trove of deals to Thailand.

 

Compare before booking trip

A rule of thumb in travel planning, that comparison, reigns supreme. Multiple platforms, including Agoda, Hostel World, and Airbnb, offer diverse accommodation deals across Thailand. Stir in some time, explore these sources and compare prices to find the most appealing deal that fits the budget.

Avoid peak season

Understanding Thailand’s seasons aids in planning a budget-friendly trip. November to April marks the tourist high season, coinciding with escalated hotel rates. A staggering 30 to 50% leap in prices becomes characteristic of these periods. Off-peak seasons, notwithstanding the mild weather fluctuations, present an opportunity for pocket-friendly deals in Thailand.

Take public transport or hire a motorbike

The plethora of cheap transportation options in Thailand outshines the idea of renting a car. Buses and trains offer a cost-effective mode of hopping city to city. Day and night trains, alongside buses, link Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chumphon, Surat Thani, and various key tourist stations. Rental motorbikes, starting from 150-300 THB per day, offer the flexibility of exploring the country’s nooks and crannies at a bargain.

PHOTO: Tuk Tuk by Chris Arthur-Collins, Unsplash

Eat like a local

Embrace the local cuisine and the wealth of street food options for an affordable gastronomic adventure. Eating local dishes in Thailand not only saves money but also offers a unique cultural experience.

Ask help for the locals

Local insights carry a treasure of useful tips for affordable tourism. From information about budget accommodation to local eateries or hidden gems off the beaten track, local input remains invaluable. Asking for help could unearth deals in Thailand that remain obscure to the regular tourist.

Get the in-depth budget guide

Comprehensive budget guides offer curated information, crucial in planning a cost-effective trip to Thailand. These guides, often available online, carry tips on discounted transport, affordable accommodation, meals, and attractions.

Bargaining in markets in Thailand

Haggling over price in Thai markets stands as one of the ways of scoring deals in Thailand. Starting prices in local markets often lay inflated, expecting a round of bargaining. Step into the negotiation dance and watch as prices drop to pocket-friendly ranges.

Benefits of having promotions

Utilising the information in this article, you’ll be equipped to confidently explore Thailand’s vibrant markets and upscale resorts. You’ll know when to book cost-effective airfare and accommodation, and how to savour local dishes without straining your budget. This guide is not just about reducing costs—it’s about fully experiencing the unique Thai culture. By understanding seasonal rate changes, leveraging online comparison tools, steering clear of peak tourist times, and negotiating like a local, your trip to Thailand can maintain budget-friendly boundaries. Thus, it isn’t only about securing deals but also maximising their value for an unforgettable experience.

 

Source

[Chivas]

Certainly agree with the Tuesday/Wednesday departure date for airlines. Not set in stone but good guide

My next outbound flight to Thailand is on a Wednesday. The Saturday departure was £22 higher

[Nick Carter icp]

4 hours ago, CharlieH said:

Bargaining in markets in Thailand

Haggling over price in Thai markets stands as one of the ways of scoring deals in Thailand.

 

   A better way would be to go to shops where they have items priced at the going rate , rather than going to markets where they charge what they want .

   Priced items in shops are usually always the cheapest option 

[Nick Carter icp]

 

   Grab cars are much cheaper than Tuk-tuks .

Taxis are sometimes cheaper than Tuk -Tuks , or about the same price . A metered Taxi would be cheaper than a Tuk-tuk

[CharlieH]

4 minutes ago, Nick Carter icp said:

 

   Grab cars are much cheaper than Tuk-tuks .

Taxis are sometimes cheaper than Tuk -Tuks , or about the same price . A metered Taxi would be cheaper than a Tuk-tuk

My personal fav is Bolt, they are a great price, always newish vehicles and a much more pleasant experience than getting rinsed by a Tuktuk or taken on some excursion

[Surasak]

19 hours ago, Nick Carter icp said:

 

   A better way would be to go to shops where they have items priced at the going rate , rather than going to markets where they charge what they want .

   Priced items in shops are usually always the cheapest option 

Haggling over a price in the markets is all part of the fun of a market visit. I learnt that lesson in Chiang Mae over 30 years ago. A very nice tooled leather belt with a buckle I really liked. 500b was the price quoted. I paid 300b which at that time would have been £6:70. I still have that leather belt, but it is now too short.

[Nick Carter icp]

4 minutes ago, Surasak said:

Haggling over a price in the markets is all part of the fun of a market visit. I learnt that lesson in Chiang Mae over 30 years ago. A very nice tooled leather belt with a buckle I really liked. 500b was the price quoted. I paid 300b which at that time would have been £6:70. I still have that leather belt, but it is now too short.

 

   I don't like haggling , I just want to know the price and then decide whether to make a purchase .

  "How much is this "

"900 Baht , special price 700 Baht , you how much"

I would rather go into a shop and see the 300 Baht price label 

[Surasak]

4 hours ago, Nick Carter icp said:

 

   I don't like haggling , I just want to know the price and then decide whether to make a purchase .

  "How much is this "

"900 Baht , special price 700 Baht , you how much"

I would rather go into a shop and see the 300 Baht price label 

Up to you.