What It Really Costs to Travel Southern Thailand for a Month? – Budget Breakdown

Table of Contents

December 10, 2024

Southern Thailand, although popular with tourists, remains an incredibly affordable place to travel. So if you’re dreaming of an unforgettable and adventurous trip, you don’t need to worry about spending a fortune.

I’m basing this statement on my one-month stay there during the high season, from January to February. It cost us around $1,500 per person to travel Southern Thailand for a month.

I shared most of the costs with my boyfriend, which helped reduce expenses, especially for accommodation and transportation. We traveled from Koh Lipe to Krabi Town, stopping at four different islands along the way.

And while some places in Southern Thailand can be slightly more expensive in terms of accommodation, the costs for food, transport, and basic activities (like kayak rentals) are quite similar across all destinations.

Read on to discover what it really costs to travel Southern Thailand for a month and learn our proven tips on how to save money while making the most of your adventures.

Summary of Expenses for a Month in Southern Thailand

A estimated budget breakdown for a month-long trip to Southern Thailand will look like below:

Category	Estimated Cost
Flights (Round Trip)	$600–$1,000
Accommodation	$900 (based on $30/night for 2 people); or $450 per person
Food	$750 (around $25/day per person)
Transportation	$100–$200 (scooters, ferries, buses)
Activities	$300–$600 (tours, excursions, etc.)
Other Activities	$200+ (massage, cooking class, etc.)
Shopping	$50–$150 (souvenirs and goods)
Local SIM Card	$10–$30

Total Estimated Budget for One Month in Southern Thailand

Low Range: Approximately $2,900 with flights; $1,500- $2,000 without flights – cost per person
High Range: Approximately $4,500, depending on your activities and preferences.

Flights: How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Southern Thailand?

The biggest expense for your trip will likely be your flight to Thailand. The cost depends a lot on where you’re starting from. For travelers from Europe, North America, or South America, flights are usually long and pricey.

In my experience, getting to Asia has become more expensive, especially if you prefer convenient, direct flights. On the other hand, travelers from Australia have an advantage, as flights are often cheaper. Of course, the most affordable options are usually found within Asia.

To get the best deals, it’s a good idea to book your flights well in advance. Prices tend to go up, especially if you’re planning to visit Thailand during the peak travel season, like Christmas or New Year’s Eve.

If you’re looking for the cheapest tickets, be prepared for long layovers. Flights from Europe often have layovers in big hubs like Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul. If you’re flying from the US West Coast, you’ll likely stop in Tokyo or Seoul.

It’s worth keeping an eye on airline promotions and sales, as you might find good deals on direct flights. Use flight comparison websites to find the best prices. From my experience, Skyscanner, KAYAK, and Momondo are the most reliable. Make sure to check a few websites, as the options can vary.

Flights Cost

For flights, plan to spend at least $600 for a round trip. If you want more comfort or shorter connections, you should budget closer to $1,000.

Accommodation: How Much Does a Comfortable Stay Cost?

The second biggest cost of your trip will be accommodation. Depending on your budget and expectations, your options can vary widely. That being said, Thailand is an affordable destination, and you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly places to stay.

For two people, room prices start at around $20 per night, and you might even find cheaper deals. If you’re traveling solo and prefer a hostel, dorm beds are available for about $12 per night per person.

Booking a private room can be cheaper per person if you’re sharing the cost with a travel partner. But if you’re on your own, hostels are typically the more economical option.

If you have a specific hotel or dream location in mind, it’s a good idea to book in advance to secure your stay. However, apart from that, you can stay flexible and book rooms after you arrive in Thailand.

A great approach is to book a few nights at your first destination and then decide where to go next once you’re there.

Booking in advance can also save you money, as popular hostels and budget accommodations tend to fill up quickly. That said, Thailand has a ton of options, so you shouldn’t stress about not finding a place to stay.

To find cheap accommodation, you might need to compromise on location. For example, staying farther from the beach, like on Koh Lanta, is usually cheaper. Thankfully, many small islands are easy to walk around, so even budget accommodations on an island like Koh Lipe can still be close to the beach.

That being said, Koh Lipe is one of the pricier islands we visited, as it’s small and lovely, but very popular. You’ll likely pay more for accommodation in places like that – smaller but very popular.

On larger islands, like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, or less touristy like Koh Mook you’ll find a wider range of affordable options.

The absolute cheapest way to stay in southern Thailand is camping. If you enjoy sleeping in a tent or hammock and don’t mind mosquitoes, you’ll find places to camp—often for free.

You might need to pay an entrance fee to access a campsite, especially in national parks or small islands. Campsites with full facilities are more common in the mainland.

For us, double rooms cost between $20 and $40 per night. We didn’t stay in hostels or luxury hotels, so if you travel like us, you can budget about $30 per night per room for two people.

Where to Book Accommodation

Websites like Booking.com and Agoda have the widest range of options. You can also check hotels availability on Google Maps where all other websites to book your accommodations will be also listed. While Airbnb is more limited in Thailand, it’s still worth checking.

For hostels, the Hostelworld app is also a great resource.

Total Accommodation Cost for a Month

If you budget $30 per night, you’ll spend about $900 for a month of accommodation (based on a double room for two people).

For one person it will be $15 per night, and when travelling solo on average $20 per night.

Food: What to Budget for Eating and Drinking

Food will be another significant part of your expenses, but enjoying the local cuisine in Thailand doesn’t have to break the bank. The cheapest options include small local eateries, street food stalls, and instant noodles or ready made meals from convenience stores.

However, you definitely shouldn’t limit yourself to just the cheapest choices. You can easily find a big, delicious dish in Southern Thailand for less than $5. When going to foreign restaurants or popular tourist destinations expect to pay more.

How much you spend on food also depends on your appetite. You might want to order several dishes to try different flavors and cuisines, or you can keep it simple with a Thai-style omelet for just $3.

For one person, a daily food budget of $20–$30 should be enough. Keep in mind, though, that if you plan to drink alcohol, your expenses will go up.

Total Food Cost for a Month

If you budget an average of $25 per day, your monthly food cost will be around $750.

Transportation: Costs of Getting Around Southern Thailand

When visiting Southern Thailand for a month, transportation costs are something to consider. You’ll need to budget for getting from the airport to your hotel and, depending on how much you plan to explore, for ferries, speedboats, tuk-tuks, and scooter rentals.

If you’re sharing costs with someone—for example, by splitting a taxi fare or sharing a scooter rental—your expenses will be obviously lower.

Ferries and Boats

Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the distance. A short trip to a nearby island might cost around $5, while longer journeys can be more than $20.

If you don’t enjoy long boat journeys, check for alternative routes on land. Taking a shared minivan to the closest pier is often a bit more comfortable and cheaper, with only a slightly longer travel time.

Taxis

Taxis are usually the most expensive option, but they’re sometimes your only choice—especially if you need a safe, reliable ride early in the morning, such as to the airport.

When you fly in, taxis will be available at all airports, but many drivers don’t use meters, so it’s important to agree on a price in advance or book at a prepaid taxi counter to avoid overcharging.

If you’re unsure of the price, check online forums or groups to compare how much you should be paying. If the price seems too high, don’t hesitate to negotiate.

The shortest journeys will cost around $5, while a taxi from the airport to a hotel in popular areas will typically cost $15 or more.

Grab and Bolt Apps

Apps like Grab and Bolt are often more affordable alternatives to regular taxis, but they’re not always available, especially in rural areas.

Try using them at the airport, where you should have access to free Wi-Fi to book a ride even if you don’t have a local SIM card. Remember to download these apps before arriving in Thailand and save the address of your accommodation to make your journey stress-free. You can also easily add your card as a payment method.

We used Grab frequently in Krabi Town and usually paid around $5 for a 2–3 km (1.5-2 miles) journey.

Shared Minivans

A shared minivan is one of the most budget-friendly options to get from the airport to your hotel or the closest pier if you’re catching a boat to the islands. It’s a popular choice among locals too.

However, keep in mind that the journey won’t be very quick as the minivan will stop at multiple locations and will only depart when it’s full.

You can expect to pay around $15 for a 15 km (9 miles) shared minivan ride from the airport to the pier or Town center.

Scooter Rentals

Scooters are a popular and affordable way to get around if you want to stay flexible and independent. Rental prices range from $6 to $15 per day, depending on the type of scooter you choose.

Not all places require renting a scooter, as there are many very walkable islands in Southern Thailand. Tuk-tuks will also be available if you need a lift.

Tuk-Tuks

Getting on a tuk-tuk is an affordable and fun experience you need to try. Tuk-tuks are not only enjoyable but also very convenient. They are available almost everywhere, especially in tourist areas (apart from Tonsai Village on Koh Phi Phi, which is walk-only).

Tuk-tuk drivers are often found near piers, waiting for arriving tourists heading to popular destinations. You can also find them near beaches or walking streets.

As the most affordable option, we paid less than $2 per person for a ride on Koh Mook, a compact island where transportation is still helpful.

scooters park under palm trees by the beach

Long Distance Journey – Trains, Buses, and Domestic Flights

If you’re starting your trip in Bangkok and traveling to southern Thailand, you’ll need to prepare for a long journey. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

Domestic Flights

Flying is the fastest way to travel but is usually the most expensive, especially if you have large luggage and need to pay additional fees. While it’s a great choice for saving time, it may not be the most budget-friendly option.

Prices start at around $20, typically including cabin luggage only. During peak times, such as Christmas, prices can be significantly higher.

Sleeper Buses

Sleeper buses are one of the cheapest ways to travel long distances in Thailand. While they take longer than flights, they can be comfortable if you choose a VIP bus, which offers reclining seats, snacks, and air conditioning at a reasonable price.

You might also find very cheap buses, but these can lead to a rough journey in an old vehicle with hard seats and a bumpy ride.

Prices start at $20 for basic options, VIP packages for sleeper buses cost around $30.

Trains

Trains are another budget-friendly option to travel from Bangkok to southern Thailand. The 3rd class is the cheapest and easiest to book, but it doesn’t offer beds, which might make a long journey less comfortable. For a better experience, consider 2nd class sleeper trains that provide beds for overnight travel.

First-class coaches are the most expensive and sell out quickly, but they offer more privacy and comfort.

3rd class: Around $9
2nd class sleeper: Around $30
1st class: Over $50

Total Cost of Transport

It’s a good idea to budget at least $100 for transportation during your trip. This amount can vary depending on how much you travel and whether you share costs with others.

Activities: What You’ll Pay for Excursions and Experiences

Organized Trips and Excursions

Once you’ve covered the basics like accommodation, food, and transportation, it’s time to think about how much you want to spend on extra activities.

In southern Thailand, you could easily spend your vacation relaxing on the beach or hiking, which costs nothing. But if you want to experience more, you’ll need to budget for it.

The most expensive activities are usually organized day trips or island-hopping excursions. Southern Thailand has countless travel agencies offering a wide range of options—group or private tours, half-day or full-day trips, with or without lunch, or hotel transport.

Short group tours tend to be the cheapest, while private long-tail boat tours for a full day are the most expensive. If you’re traveling with others, you can share the cost of a private boat, making it more affordable.

From my experience, group tours were often underwhelming, while private long-tail boat tours were absolutely worth the extra money. A good idea is to try both group and private tours to see which suits you best.

Before booking, ask the tour agency about group size and whether the itinerary is flexible. Also, paying extra for packed lunch is never worth it from my experience.

Best way to Booking Affordable Tours

Booking tours in southern Thailand is very easy. Most islands with hotels will have agencies nearby where you can arrange tours. If not, your hotel will likely work with local agencies and can book for you—just ask at check-in.

To get the best price, it’s usually cheaper to book directly at an agency’s stand. Hotels might charge extra for commission, and online prices are often the highest, though not always.

Websites like GetYourGuide or Viator are good for browsing options, but it’s worth comparing prices and negotiating directly with vendors.

Organized Trips Costs

Tour packages start at around 500 baht (about $15) per person and can go up to $100 or more, depending on the experience you’re looking for.

Scuba Diving License

One of the most exciting and adventurous activities you can try in southern Thailand is scuba diving. If you’ve ever dreamed of getting your PADI Open Water certification, Southern Thailand is one of the most affordable places to do it.

Andaman Sea offers excellent dive sites, abundant marine life, and great water visibility, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced divers.

You’ll find diving centers on almost every island, but for more options, head to divers hot spots like Koh Lipe or Koh Phi Phi, which have many dive centers to choose from.

Scuba Diving Costs

PADI Open Water Certification (3-day course): Around $500
Single Dive or Fun Discovery Dive: Around $75

If diving is on your bucket list, southern Thailand is a fantastic and budget-friendly destination to make it happen!

Snorkeling Gear

Many trips in southern Thailand will include snorkeling at beautiful sites, and the gear is usually provided as part of the package. However, if you want to explore on your own—whether off the beach or while kayaking—you’ll need to bring your own equipment or rent it locally.

Rental costs are quite affordable. You can rent a mask and flippers for less than $5 each per day, though prices may vary depending on the location.

Kayak Rental

If you want to enjoy a bit of adventure and explore Thailand’s unique coastline on your own, renting a kayak is a popular and affordable option. Many beach bars and local vendors offer kayak rentals, so finding one won’t be a problem.

A full day of kayaking typically costs around $20, but you can rent one for a half-day at a lower price.

Other Popular Activities

Massage: Prices range from $8 to $30, depending on the type and location.

Elephant Ethical Sanctuary: A full-day trip costs around $100.

Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Thai dishes for about $35.

Koh Phi Phi rocky shore, big stones, boats, clear blue sea and limestone cliffs in the distance

Local SIM card

Another expense to consider is getting a local SIM card. You’ll need it for ordering taxis through apps, using maps, and, of course, for communication.

The cheapest option costs less than $10 (around 300 baht) per month for a SIM card with data and calls. However, getting these prices isn’t always straightforward.

The most reliable place to buy a SIM card is at an official telecom shop, but it can be hard to find it on the small southern islands. Fortunately, 7/11 stores also sell SIM cards.

Pay attention to the price, and if it seems too expensive, shop around, as some places claim to sell “tourist SIM cards” at inflated prices. Be cautious when buying SIM cards at the airport, as prices there tend to be higher as well.

If you want to have data as soon as you arrive in Thailand, the most convenient option is an eSIM, as you can buy and activate it before coming to Thailand. Unfortunately it’s not the cheapest option, as eSIM packages for a month in Thailand cost around $30.

Shopping: Souvenirs and Local Finds

Shopping is one of the hardest expenses to estimate since it depends on whether you enjoy buying souvenirs or prefer to skip it altogether. Personally, I’m not a big shopper and would rather spend money on experiences than things. That said, Thailand is a great place to find handmade crafts and stylish clothes.

You can spend as little or as much as you like on shopping—it’s entirely up to you. If you’re being moderate, $50 should be enough to pick up a few nice souvenirs.

People walking and the sculpture on the Koh Phi Phi tonsai village

Money and Payment: Cash is King

When it comes to payment methods, cash is king in Thailand. Be prepared, as many places won’t accept cards. Getting used to a different currency can be confusing at first, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with Thai bills and denominations to avoid potential scams.

Exchanging Money in Thailand

The most budget-friendly way to get cash in Thailand is to bring a widely accepted currency like USD or GBP and exchange it after you arrive. Pay close attention to exchange rates, to find the most beneficial.

One of the best places to exchange money is Superrich Exchange, which usually offers best rates. However, it’s only available in major areas like Phuket, Krabi Town and Ao Nang, and some airports.

Ensure the bills you bring are crisp and undamaged, as exchange counters in Thailand often won’t accept torn or marked bills.

If you’d rather arrive with some Thai baht, exchange a small amount in your home country before traveling. As a general rule, exchange rates are usually better in Thailand than abroad.

Using Debit and Credit Cards in Thailand

Carrying large sums of cash might not feel safe or comfortable, so an international debit card is a great alternative. Cards like Revolut, Monzo, or Wise (depending on availability in your country) are the best options for getting better exchange rates and avoiding unnecessary fees.

You can use these cards to pay at some hotels and restaurants. We personally never encountered issues with them. However, convenience stores like 7/11 often have a minimum spend to use a card.

ATMs in Thailand

ATMs are widely available, and you can use them to withdraw Thai baht. Even small islands will have at least one ATM (unless it’s uninhabited, of course). When withdrawing money in Thailand keep in mind:

Every ATM in Thailand charges a 220 baht fee per transaction – no matter what type of card you are using.
Additional fees and exchange rates will depend on your bank or card provider.

How to Travel Cheap in Southern Thailand

Traveling on a budget in southern Thailand is very doable if you make smart choices. Here are some tips to help you save money:

Accommodation

For couples, a small double room will be cheaper than booking two beds in a hostel.
For solo travelers, hostels will be the cheapest
Most affordable hotels will be located further from the beach and in less popular areas.

Transportation

For short rides use tuk-tuks and apps like Grab or Bolt instead of taxis
Avoid renting a scooter unless you plan to use it daily.
For longer distances, sleeper buses and 2nd or 3rd class on a train are more affordable than flights.

Food

Eat at small local restaurants and street food stalls.
Snacks, drinks, and ready meals like noodle soup from 7/11 are quick and cheap option.

Activities

Choose group tours instead of private ones, or share the cost of a private long-tail boat with other travelers to minimize the cost.
Enjoy free or low-cost alternatives like hiking, kayaking or visiting local temples.

Money and Payment

Bring your home currency (like USD or GBP) and exchange it in Thailand. The best rates can be usually found in Superrich exchange.
Ensure bills you want to exchange are crisp and undamaged.
Avoid using ATMs frequently, as each transaction comes with a 220 baht fee. Withdraw large amounts at once to reduce the number of transactions.
Use an international card like Revolut, Wise, or Monzo to save on fees and get better exchange rates.

Final Thoughts on Cost of Travel to Southern Thailand

Thailand is an affordable destination, especially for travelers from the West. Compared to popular holiday spots in Europe or the US, the cost of accommodation and dining is very budget-friendly.

The biggest expense to consider will likely be your flights, especially if you’re looking for a fast and comfortable journey. Once in Thailand, your spending will largely depend on how luxurious you want your stay to be. For backpackers staying in basic rooms or hostels, the trip can be incredibly budget-friendly. The same applies to food and activities.

A great advantage of Thailand’s Andaman Coast is that it offers many budget options and is incredibly safe to explore. You can easily enjoy breathtaking sights and free or low-cost activities like hiking, snorkeling, visiting temples, and exploring old towns.

However, if you want to try and experience everything Southern Thailand has to offer, remember to plan your budget accordingly to make the most of your trip.