These are my personal tips for traveling to Thailand. I was there in November 2025, and these are the most important and different things compared to other trips. These tips come from my personal travel experience.
Use of cash
Credit and debit cards are rarely used or accepted in Thailand, so if you have a credit card, you won’t be able to use them easily. It’s always best to have cash in Thailand. My advice is to withdraw money from ATMs or exchange euros at the many currency exchange centers you’ll find everywhere. Therefore, bring plenty of cash in euros that can be exchanged. Unfortunately, all ATMs charge withdrawal fees, even if you have a local currency account.
Internet connection
An internet connection is essential for travel and any other purpose. You can make and receive calls via WhatsApp; the connection is fast and reliable. An internet connection is essential if you use taxi or travel apps, as well as for everyday needs, such as email and social media.
You can use the e-sim
Latest-generation cell phones also support e-SIMs, virtual SIM cards that don’t require installation but are activated very quickly, simply by scanning a QR code. This way, you can purchase an e-SIM before you leave and activate it as soon as you land in Bangkok. Various card sizes and prices are available depending on the length of your stay. You can check your smartphone’s e-SIM compatibility and find step-by-step registration instructions.
I suggest you e-sim of Airalo . These e-SIMs are also available in many other countries, therefore where there are no roaming problems.
Roaming charges with your mobile operator could be very expensive. If your smartphone doesn’t support e-SIMs but only traditional SIMs, you can still order an international SIM card fromDrimSim
Health insurance
It’s essential to have valid and effective health insurance when you’re in Thailand. Hospitalization is very expensive in the event of illness or injury. Make sure you have good health insurance before you leave. I personally recommend choosing a reliable insurance company and not just looking for the cheapest price. It’s important to have maximum support and assistance in the event of an accident or any other travel issue.
I suggest you the insurance with Klook
Hygiene rules
It is advisable not to drink tap water, as it may contain bacteria that cause diarrhea and other problems. Avoid raw vegetables, exposed raw goods, and street food with questionable hygiene. For personal hygiene (especially brushing your teeth), it is advisable to use bottled water or the water provided in hotels. However, taking lactic acid bacteria therapy before leaving is recommended. Drinks with ice are often safe because they are often made with purchased ice, not prepared with tap water. Be wary of drinks prepared or diluted with water of questionable origin. Bottled mineral water is very inexpensive (10–20 baht).
Hotel
I recommend always relying on Klook to find accommodations with all the guarantees of a reliable company.
Movements
For travel in Thailand, we recommend using taxis with the GRAB app. Taxis are very cheap compared to the Italian average, making them an excellent way to get around. We don’t recommend using taxis in Bangkok, as the city is very busy and it can take a long time to reach your destination.
If you’re in Bangkok, try to use the subway, overground train, or boat.
Avoid tuk-tuks. They’re fun and unique, but they often take you to destinations other than the one you requested, take long drives, and try to take you to shops to buy products they recommend.
You can also rent a car or other vehicles, such as a scooter, but you must first have an international driving license, as an Italian (and European) one is not valid and you risk hefty fines, as well as further problems in the event of an accident.
I suggest you GetRentaCar