Thailand on a Budget for Solo Travellers (2025 Guide)
Thailand is the dreamland for solo travellers, with rich culture, vibrant vibes, and super-friendly people. Often considered the best place for solo travelling, however it can get a bit crowded with tourists and not always as cheap as advertised. However, not everything has to break your bank.
You can keep costs low and still have a great time. Here’s a simple guide for our SoloBudd users on what you’ll spend day to day, plus easy ways to save without feeling like you’re missing out. The Budget lists an average value of costs in Pounds(£) per day, per person. You can choose your favourite activities based on your preferences and comfort.
What “solo budget” looks like
This guide assumes you’re paying for everything yourself, staying in hostels or simple guesthouses, and using public transport, scooters or short taxis. Prices shift with season and exchange rates, so treat the ranges as a baseline, not a rulebook.
Daily budget at a glance
Low-Range: £25–£55 per day
Mid-Range: £60–£130 per day
High-Range: £150–£220 per day
That’s for Bangkok. Chiang Mai is often a touch cheaper. Beach hubs and islands can be a touch higher.
Accommodation:-
There are ample amounts of places to stay in Thailand based on your comfort and needs. You can find a nice and friendly hostel or, if you are more inclined to luxury, a beachside resort may be more fitting, all providing an amazing experience.
Generally, the cost of lodging is much cheaper in the monsoon from May to October and rises during peak tourist season from November onwards, however with prior planning, you can always find an affordable option.
Low-Range | £9 - £40 |
Mid-Range | £40 - £200 |
High-Range | £200 - £1000 |
Tip: book 1–2 nights online, then extend in person for better weekly rates. Be friendly with the hotel staff, you'll be surprised at what they can do.
Food & Drink:-
It is fair to say that Thailand may have one of the most vibrant food cultures in the world, with rich and bold flavours. Do not shy away from trying out the street market and experiencing an essential part of Thai. You can read more about the Street markets of Thailand. Or you can experience an innovative and exquisite dining experience in a high-end restaurant.
Street food / food courts will be your cheapest options, with cafes being a slightly more expensive alternative. Naturally restaurants and dedicated food bars will be the most expensive.
Low-Range | £3 to £15 |
Mid-Range | £15 to £40 |
High-Range | £40 to £200 |
Tip: Eat where it's busy - fresh food, fair prices
Local Transport:-
Everyone wants to experience the lovely tuk-tuk rides around the streets of Thailand, but travellers beware, these can cost a leg and an arm. Most can travel on a budget using local taxi apps such as Grab or hire a scooter/bike if staying for an extended period.
Bangkok BTS / MRT / Buses | £0.4 - £1.50 per ride |
Low-Range Scooter Hire | £3 to £5 |
Low-Range Scooter Taxi | £5 to £10 |
Mid-Range Taxi | £10 to £15 |
High-Range Tuk-Tuk | £15 to £30 |
Tip: In Bangkok if your getting a taxi always make sure they use the meter. However in places like Phuket and Koh Samui you have to agree the price before.
Travel:-
When travelling within Thailand, you can find a range of options from local buses to domestic flights. While some options are scarce to find in certain parts of the north, not having as many options, it is essential to have this planned ahead, as certain islands have a few transport systems.
Low-Range Buses and Trains | £5 to £20 |
Mid-Range Taxis | £20 to £30 |
High-Range Flights | £25 to £60 |
Tip: If your planning on going further a field think about pairing up with fellow travellers, hostel chats and our app is perfect for splitting up taxi and ferries.
Activities:-
For our beloved solo travellers, there are some really fun group activities to enjoy and socialise. You can read more about activities to do in Thailand. There are varied activities to do in Thailand, from experiencing a peaceful retreat to a more adventurous scuba diving; the list is endless. Just enjoying the beach or the streets of Thailand is absolutely free; it all depends on your preferences.
Low-Range | £0 to £5 |
Mid-Range | £5 to £15 |
High-Range | £10 to £35 |
So once you have decided on what your preferences and comfort zone are, you can plan and budget your dream adventure in Thailand.
Quick Solo FAQ
When is it cheapest?
May–October generally, with a higher chance of rain.
Cash or card?
Keep small cash for markets/taxis. Cards are fine in malls/cafés. Avoid dynamic currency conversion.
How do I meet people on a budget?
Pick hostels that run activities, try free walking tours, and use hostel chats to split rides or download our app to find like minded travellers near you.
