I'm new to the group so please forgive/ignore me if this topic has already been aired and exhausted.

I see references in shops to VAT refunds for tourists and I gather the threshold is 5000 baht. I have been buying some stuff for my place here but haven't done anything in the way of form filling so far. I'd be interested in members experience of the system. Is it reasonably straightforward or is it so involved that it's hardly worth the effort. Also, does the term "tourist" have any special significance. Is someone in the administration likely to ask what kind of a tourist buys a washing machine or freezer.

In my book the system is largely cosmetic.

Unless you plan to buy expensive designer items do not bother.

There are better locations to shop for these anyway.

In Thailand they may well be fakes anyway.