Thailand is one of the easiest places in the world to travel on a small budget. I wanted to see how far I could stretch twenty dollars a day without feeling like I was missing out. Here is exactly how I did it.
Accommodation
I stayed in budget guesthouses that cost between ten and twelve dollars a night. They were clean, had air conditioning, and offered free Wi Fi. Booking in person often saved me a few dollars compared to online prices. [Link to booking partner]
Food
Street food was my main source of meals. For less than two dollars I could get a plate of Pad Thai, a soup, or grilled meat with rice. Fruit stands kept me stocked with mango and pineapple for snacks.
Transportation
I used songthaews and local buses to get around. A short ride was usually under a dollar. I walked when possible to save money and see more of the city.
Activities
Many of the best things to do were free or cheap. Temples, street markets, and public parks filled most of my days. I paid small entry fees for a few attractions and took one low cost cooking class. [Link to booking partner]
Daily Breakdown
Accommodation: $11
Food: $6
Transport and Activities: $3
Why This Works
Thailand rewards slow travel and local spending. Avoiding tourist traps and overpriced tours kept my costs down while still giving me a great experience.
If you want more budget travel tips and destination guides, check Timothy’s Travel Tips and Tim in Thailand.