Thailand budget calculator
Daily spend by traveler type and destination. 2026 numbers, real on-the-ground.
Per-day baseline (Bangkok, 2026)
| Tier | Accom. | Food | Transport | Activities | Total/day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | ฿500 | ฿300 | ฿100 | ฿200 | ฿1,100 |
| Mid-range | ฿1,800 | ฿800 | ฿250 | ฿600 | ฿3,450 |
| Comfort | ฿3,500 | ฿1,500 | ฿500 | ฿1,200 | ฿6,700 |
| Luxury | ฿8,000+ | ฿3,000+ | ฿1,000+ | ฿2,500+ | ฿14,500+ |
FAQ
How accurate are these numbers?
Numbers come from on-the-ground spending logs through early 2026, then averaged across travelers in each band. Your bar tab and tour habits drive the variance, not the listed price floors.
Is Thailand still cheap in 2026?
Yes for the backpacker tier — 1 200 baht a day still gets you a hostel, two meals from street vendors, BTS rides and one drink. Mid-range has crept up: 3 000–4 500 baht/day now reflects what was 2 200 baht in 2019.
What hidden costs do people forget?
ATM withdrawal fees (220 baht each), the 700 baht tourist tax (when actually enforced), departure taxes on domestic flights, scooter deposits, and travel insurance — easily 300–500 USD across a two-week trip.
Is Phuket more expensive than Bangkok?
Accommodation and tours yes (often 1.5–2× Bangkok), but food and transport are similar. Pattaya sits between them. The cheapest large destinations are Chiang Mai and Hua Hin.