20/02/2026
1. Overpacking: Laundry is cheap and almost all accommodations have it available at your convenience. It's also a good place to buy cheap but quality clothing.
2. Overplanning: Less is more, 1-2 Must-visit places per day is enough if you're staying for a week or longer, spending more time in each let's you experience more, find hidden gems, & drains less of your energy (You cannot visit everything on your first trip, you'll be coming back again, trust me 😉)
3. Withdrawing small amounts: It's usually best to withdraw a one-time big amount, enough for your whole stay in Thailand since most, if not all, ATMs charge a fee for international cards withdrawal, 220THB - 280THB or more, depending on the bank. Another option would to get Thai Baht would be exchanging your local currency, the currency exchange at the basement floor of Suvarnabhumi Airport, just beside the Airport Rail Link entrance, usually gives the best rate.
4. Rush-hour taxis: 5 PM traffic can turn 20 minutes into 2 hours. You can visit almost all places in Bangkok via BTS Sky Train or MRT, usually cheaper, no traffic, and easier to access.
5. Tourist scams: "Closed temple" and "Foreign Currency collector" still work on people, especially first-timers.
6. Avoiding street food: You're missing the best meals in the country. One night market per day = happy tummy
7. Not trying out 7-eleven foods/toasties: If there is a 2nd best 7-eleven next to Japan, it would be Thailand, in terms of food quality, and a lot of variety offerings.
8. Ignoring the heat: Do not wear heavy clothing, it's always hot in Thailand, wearing a cap and putting on sunscreen can help reduce its effects.
9. Not knowing basic Thai phrases and numbers: Knowing how to greet, order, and bargain in Thai goes a long way. Since in most places outside the city center, you'll less likely find someone that speaks fluent English.
10. No small cash: Street stalls can't break big bills.
11. Thai culture basics: Respect goes a long way, not only here but everywhere. Wearing shoes into a temple or touching someone's head without realizing
12. No insurance: Hospitals are great, bills aren't cheap without it.
