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You are here: Home / Travel / What to Wear in Thailand: Stay Practical, Cool & Respectful

What to Wear in Thailand: Stay Practical, Cool & Respectful

Upon landing in Thailand, you’ll likely be greeted by warm, sunny weather and a serious blast of humidity.

That jumper you wore on the plane will have you sweating like crazy as soon as you exit the airport arrivals floor.

But before you tear off your clothes and go bare-chested, or put on a bikini or pair of Speedos, bear in mind that Thai culture promotes a conservative dress code in public.

With this in mind, you will need to pack clothes that help you stay cool and look casual, and conservative when necessary – when visiting cultural sites and temples.

It's not just about making sure you're not offending anyone, but also about being comfortable and not dripping in sweat.

This guide will help you pack the right attire for your trip:

You'll learn what's appropriate on the beach and in the local town, what clothes are best to wear when shopping in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and what clobber to wear in the evening when you're up for a party.

From the shops to the beach to the bar, this guide contains everything you need to know.

What to Wear in Thailand: Cultural Tips 101

traditional-dress-thailand

Traditional dress in Thailand is modest, characterized by fitted clothes that cover the legs and arms.

Even though it's boiling hot, you may be shocked to see Thais wearing long trousers (pants) and long sleeves. Often just looking at locals makes you feel hot.

One reason for this is to cover their skin from the sun, but another is that Thai culture values modesty, along with respect and courtesy too.

Many Thais, particularly women, feel more comfortable in modest clothing. That's not to say Thai women don't love dressing up for an evening out like Western females do, but there's a time and a place.

This is certainly the case at local temples and when visiting government buildings and places considered to be of a “high level”.

Unsuspecting tourists may find themselves getting a few frowns from locals for wearing package-hugging shorts and a vest at a temple, or for walking shirtless around a shopping center.

Aim to be a traveler who’s in touch with the local customs by treating places of worship and authority with respect.

Of course this is a holiday, and naturally you'll be packing your shorts, vests, and flip flops, but you should also bring some full length trousers and a shirt or two with you – one with short and one with long sleeves.

For those staying at 4/5 star hotels, it isn't the done thing to wear a vest down to dinner in the evening, so you may need some casual garments.

For men: throw in a couple of polo shirts, button-down collared shirts, and full length cotton/linen trousers. You'll certainly need these if visiting the Grand Palace and other temples.

For women: bring along loose pants and tops that cover the shoulders. Summer dresses are great as they are versatile and can be worn in many situations, keeping you cool and looking modest.

For public places, you might choose to avoid spaghetti strap tops, especially without a bra underneath – this is a classic tourist error.

That said, you can always drape a shawl or sweater over your shoulders when need be.

All tops should have modest necklines. Too much cleavage is considered immodest, particularly on public transport.

Even though you will most likely see some cleavage on show from young Thai women, particularly in Bangkok, you won't get a pass because you are the foreigner :).

That's the way it goes!

Materials for Keeping Cool

If possible, wear clothes made from a moisture-wicking fabric; it will help immensely with the heat and humidity.

If you can’t find quick-dry, buy clothes that are synthetic-polyester blends.

Though they don’t sound appealing, they’ll be much lighter and airier than cotton, which gets soggy from sweat.

Be careful with your choice of long pants and jeans. While an acceptable form of leg wear, they can also be stifling if you’re not used to the heat. The last thing you want is a sweaty crutch and wet patches showing on your bottom.

Choose light, airy garments. Thailand gets really humid; to the point that you'll find yourself sweating just minutes after having a shower.

Keep a light top or shawl handy, though. The air-con in malls, shops, and hotels can be really cold, and coming in from one temperature extreme to another can at times make you feel feverish – especially when you're feeling jet lagged.

Practical Footwear

Before you depart on your Thai adventure, don’t forget to consider your footwear.

You should opt for comfort first and style second. After all, you are likely to be doing a lot of walking.

Some tuff rubber-soled sandal-type shoes – with good ventilation – that can easily be slipped on and off are perfect.

Instead of, or in addition to, bringing flip flops for the beach, I recommend beach shoes that can be worn around the pool, on the beach and in the water. Flip flops are good for slipping on and off but beach shoes can be kept on and tend to protect your feet better.

Keep in mind that if it rains it may be slippery (check the weather for that time of year), and the water can come up past your ankles in some places. So don’t waste space packing too many heels or shoes that can’t be worn in a range of weather situations.

rain-clothes-thailand

When it rains, it can rain hard. You don't want to be wearing socks and non-waterproof shoes!

Avoid bringing shoes that insulate your feet, like heavily lined boots. Such shoes require socks, which you generally won't be wearing. Socks get very smelly in Thailand!

If you're trekking this will be an exception, but go for lightweight trekking boots if you can.

Note that you will be removing your shoes frequently, as it is customary to take off your shoes when entering Thai homes, some shops, your hotel room, and temples. So you'll want to pack easy slip-on-slip-off shoes.

While taking off your shoes is customary when entering someone's home and some shops, do not walk around without shoes on in the street.

This is a common mistake that tourists make, particularly on the islands.

The islands make you feel free and want to let go of your cultural norms, but Thai culture has specific rules pertaining to feet. Walking around the city and then entering a temple, home or shop is considered dirty and potentially offensive.

Certainly don't sit down and put your feet up so that they are pointing at people waking past or sitting opposite. Soles of the feet should remain on the floor.

Clothes for City Shopping

When shopping, adhere to the general rules of modesty and wear clean, non-revealing clothes.

Casual-cool is a good way to describe a positive dress code.

Again, just because you see a Thai person doing it, doesn't mean you should do it too.

You may see a woman wearing a really short skirt and high heels, or a man with his t-shirt rolled up to his chest to give his stomach some air, but that doesn't mean it's acceptable for you to do the same.

Ladies, wear a bra, or a sports bra if that's more comfortable in the heat. No nipple exposure please!

Men, no Euro-style shorts with your package on show. And put a top on. We don't care if you have a six-pack or not, even though I'm jealous!

Thailand Dress-Code at the Beach

Thousands travel to Thailand’s southern shores to splash in the Kingdom’s crystal blue waters, which of course necessitates a bathing suit.

You'll notice when you go to the beach that most Thais are fully clothed on both sand and in the sea.

This is quite typical; largely because they are covering up from the sun and don't want to get any browner.

You will notice that Thais tend to go to the beach after 4pm when the sun is much weaker. They think we are crazy for doing otherwise!

So, what should you wear on the beach in Thailand?

what-to-wear-in-thailand

Two-piece swimsuits are fine on the beach, but have a sarong to hand to cover up when you walk away from the beach.

Swimming trunks or shorts are acceptable for men, and it is generally acceptable for female travelers to wear a two-piece bathing suit.

Women should try to wear suits that are not overly revealing, especially in areas of Thailand that are adjacent to Malaysia: there’s a large, conservative Muslim population there.

Thongs are generally a no-no and may attract a lot of the wrong attention.

The beach is pretty relaxed though, and no one is going to tell you off for a revealing costume.

Topless bathing is unacceptable, and certainly don't go nude!

What you really need to be aware of at the seaside is the etiquette when walking away from the beach.

Always have a cover-up handy, and never walk through a neighboring beach town without proper shoes and a sarong or t-shirt on.

The same rules apply for riding motorbikes. Visitors should never hop atop a scooter in their bathing suits or without shoes.

That said, many guys wear swimming shorts instead of trunks, which are of course fine for riding a scooter.

Either way, good etiquette is to put on shorts and t-shirt/vest when riding/walking around.

Visiting Temples & Historical Sites

If you’re visiting a temple, opt for loose fitting breathable clothes.

The general rule is that the shoulders and knees should be covered; a practice that applies to both men and women.

Women should opt for knee-length shorts, a skirt to the knee or beyond, or a dress. Leggings are often frowned upon, so try to wear flowing pants or a long skirt if you can.

Women can carry a sarong or scarf to tie around their waist or throw over their shoulders if need be.

Men should completely button their long sleeve shirts and wear trousers. Cotton or linen full length trousers work nicely, as does a long sleeve cotton/linen top, with or without buttons.

clothes-temple-thailand

These tops are great for temple visits. Pick one up for around 200 Baht in Thailand.

Some temples are stricter than others, and you may not be allowed to enter if you don't have the proper garb. The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a prime example of strict dress code.

Clothes for Trekking

If you’re planning a jungle adventure, you’ll need to pack accordingly.

Be sure to bring good hiking or trekking shoes/boots that have a deep tread. The Thai jungle is often wet from rain, and you don’t want to slip.

Be sure that your boots are lightweight and easy-dry. Pack long socks that will cover your ankles and shin skin.

Keep in mind that sandals and other open style footwear are a bad idea for even light trekking, since they allow easy access for hungry mosquitoes and leeches, not to mention that any exposed skin may be hurt on hazardous terrain.

Though it’ll likely be humid, your best bet is to hike in sports leggings, long pants or light sweatpants.

It’s also wise to bring along a poncho or raincoat in case of a sudden downpour. Always carry mosquito and bug repellent on a jungle adventure.

Clothes for the Bar & Disco

If all you’re after is a cold beer at the end of a hot day, you can relax because most casual bars in Thailand don’t have a dress code.

Of course, a fancy hotel will have a dress code, and “hi-society” bars and clubs in areas of Bangkok like Thong Lor will do too.

Regardless, you’ll want to make sure that you’re seen in a good light and that you're being respectful.

Choose tops with sleeves and bottoms that extend to the knees.

Wear shoes, and make sure you’re showered, even after a long day of exploring in the sun! Thais tend to take at least two showers a day, so make sure you aren't the one smelly foreigner :).

If the venue is a fancy one in the city, you can bet that there will be a dress code.

Men should shy away from wearing vests, shorts, or flip flops.

Both men and women should eschew athletic wear and choose footwear other than sneakers.

Baseball hates usually aren't allowed, and the same goes for sandals and open-toed shoes.

General Footwear Tips

While they may not be everyone's cup of tea, Crocs are a lifesaver in Thailand.

Lightweight, comfortable, waterproof and bacteria free, they’re pretty much the optimal shoe for a climate like Thailand's.

For those who don't like the clog style Crocs, men can choose from a loafer style and women can even pick up Croc ballet flats.

You don't have to pay the expensive price for the original Croc brand either. There are a number of Croc-like shoes available in markets all across Thailand that will do the job.

The reason I suggest Crocs is because you won't want to wear socks in Thailand, but when you wear trainers or shoes with a thick lining, without socks the shoes will start to smell because of the bacteria that builds up in the heat.

The key is comfortable and breathable, and to avoid any shoe that will make your foot sweat and smell.

Your feet will definitely thank you!

10 Essentials for Your Packing List

  1. A good pair of breathable walking shoes that you can slip on and off
  2. A versatile and non-wrinkly shawl
  3. Loose, breathable pants (linen is a great option)
  4. Sunglasses and a sun hat
  5. Men: A polo top or collared shirt
  6. Women: A beach coverup or sarong
  7. Sunscreen
  8. Quick dry t-shirts for  hot days
  9. A poncho or a raincoat: you can also buy cheap ones in Thailand from 7-Eleven
  10. Mosquito repellant

10 Tips You'll thank Me For

  1. Remember that you are a visitor, and therefore you should act politely and respectfully. Sometimes that means dressing the part, even if you see others doing the opposite. Set the example, don't follow the crowd.
  2. Avoid immodest outfits in cities and rural towns.
  3. Always bring sufficient covering when visiting sacred and holy sites.
  4. Beware of mosquitoes: They are especially active at night, so take care and use spray on bare arms and legs.
  5. Shower regularly: the Kingdom is hot and humid and you’ll likely get sweaty and stinky after a few hours of exploration. Thai culture appreciates cleanliness and good hygiene.
  6. In addition to frequent showers, use anti-perspirant.
  7. Prepare for the sun: the sun in Thailand may be much stronger than what you’re used to. Bring along a hat, sunblock, and shades to keep cool.
  8. Avoid moisturizer! It can block your pores and make your skin sweat even more.
  9. Opt for light makeup that won't sweat, drip, and stain your clothes.
  10. Do laundry frequently: There are many self service laundromats in Thailand, but you can also get it done cheaply and reliably through your guesthouse or hotel. Take advantage of these services and wash your clothes often – or they will smell!

Tips to Start Planning Your Trip Now

Book Your Accommodation:

The best hotel rates in Thailand are found at Agoda and Hotels.com.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I never travel without it. I use SafetyWing for reliable cover.

Need a New Backpack?

Check out these awesome backpack recommendations.

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Last Updated on December 21, 2022

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Comments Sort by : newest | oldest

  1. Longfinger Kirk says

    March 5, 2022 at 6:29 pm

    Very good and useful article, thank you. All visitors to the Land of Smiles should read this!
    Reply

    Mar 05, 2022 at 6:29 pm

  2. Chris says

    June 15, 2021 at 4:29 pm

    Tide Swell says
    “Frowns and STAIRS?”
    Do you even speak English?
    ------------------------------------------------
    Jeeeez, talk about calling the kettle black.
    "STAIRS" Tide Swell, are what you use to walk up or down an elevated surface or incline, "NOT" what you do with your eyes, doh.
    FYI... "Stare(s)" IS the correct pronunciation.
    Like the man said.......
    "Please go elsewhere if you want to insult people"
    Reply

    Jun 15, 2021 at 4:29 pm

    • JamesE says

      July 3, 2021 at 9:55 am

      Oh, yes. The good old days when Tide would come on and harass all and sundry.
      Reply

      Jul 03, 2021 at 9:55 am

  3. Ian says

    October 31, 2019 at 8:34 pm

    so Can you wear 3/4 lengh trousers as long as the knees are covered as im assuming it will be hot out there
    Reply

    Oct 31, 2019 at 8:34 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 31, 2019 at 9:48 pm

      You don't have to cover your knees anywhere other than temples and historical sites like the Grand Palace. 3/4 length trousers would be fine at such places.
      Reply

      Oct 31, 2019 at 9:48 pm

      • Ian says

        October 31, 2019 at 10:01 pm

        Thanks! That's a relief
        Reply

        Oct 31, 2019 at 10:01 pm

  4. Martin1 says

    January 6, 2019 at 11:09 pm

    I usually wear long-sleaves clothing in Bangkok - not only because of cultural respect - but as an excellent protection against those fu***** mosquitoes!!!

    As footwear I can recommend (not only for Thailand) shoes fromItalian brand GEOX, as they let feet breath and let go sweat easily out.
    (Personal recommendation - I don't work for any footware brand)
    Reply

    Jan 06, 2019 at 11:09 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 7, 2019 at 7:15 pm

      Thanks for the tip. I have been wearing Vivo Barefoot shoes. They do different types. I have a couple of pairs; one is a slip-on pair quite similar to GEOX but with a thinner sole.
      Reply

      Jan 07, 2019 at 7:15 pm

  5. Starla says

    November 1, 2018 at 7:12 pm

    I wish this article could be given out to every foreigner who comes through Thai customs. Thank you for compiling this! Very helpful and the least we can do is to be aware of what is respectful as we come as visitors.
    Reply

    Nov 01, 2018 at 7:12 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 1, 2018 at 7:16 pm

      Glad you found it useful, Starla.
      Reply

      Nov 01, 2018 at 7:16 pm

  6. Ken F says

    July 13, 2018 at 2:55 pm

    Great article but I’m kind of surprised that you did not address the nudity issue. But then again, its been so long since I’ve been back to Thailand that for all I know they may have finally cracked down on female western tourists going topless on Thai beaches. Or perhaps you just felt that the issue has already been covered extensively by others. After all, I know that Joe Cummings covered the issue way back in the 70’s in his Lonely Planet travel guide.

    Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against nudity. In fact, I’ve always been completely comfortable being nude around dozens of strange men and women at various hot springs throughout California. I do however have a BIG problem with people being disrespectful of their hosts when being a guest in someone else’s country and that is why it bothers me so much when I see women going topless on Thai beaches. Just because the police choose not to arrest you for it does not make it acceptable behavior.

    As for not wearing swimwear on a motorbike when going to the beach, I’m not sure I entirely agree with that one - at least not for men. Naturally I would never let my girlfriend ride around on the back of my motorbike in a bikini, but men’s board shorts go down to the knees and don’t look much different than regular shorts - although in recent years the mid-thigh length swim trunks from the 1960’s have actually been making a comeback here in the states.

    In any case, here in California I often do the surfer's change (changing under a towel wrapped around ones waist) before getting into my car after a swim at the beach. When living in Phuket however I usually just rode home from the beach wearing my board shorts and a t-shirt. Although I still think its idiotic riding around on a motorbike with no shirt on, and I would see westerners doing this all the time in Phuket. To me, at least in Thailand, it just looks more crude than carefree – maybe even a bit white-trashy, and seeing this makes me somewhat embarrassed to be a westerner there.

    By the way, what does “vest” refer to in the UK? It must have a very different meaning than it does here in the USA because I dont recall ever seeing anyone at the beach in Thailand wearing what we would refer to as a vest here in the states.
    Reply

    Jul 13, 2018 at 2:55 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 13, 2018 at 8:00 pm

      Thanks Ken. I didn't address nudity explicitly, but I make continual references to modesty. I thought it was somewhat of a given that going topless wouldn't be appropriate, but perhaps so at that in to make it clear. in reference to swimwear on the motorbike: beach shorts are of course fine, in fact I often wear the same shorts for swimming as I do for walking around. I should have made it clear that I meant Speedo type swimwear and bikini bottoms for women. I'll do that.By vest I mean an armless t-shirt with the top of the back and the chest cut out (semi circle).
      Reply

      Jul 13, 2018 at 8:00 pm

      • James E says

        July 13, 2018 at 9:53 pm

        Hi TTL,

        "By vest I mean an armless t-shirt with the top of the back and the chest cut out (semi circle)."

        Here in the US that's known as a "wife-beater"...
        Reply

        Jul 13, 2018 at 9:53 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 13, 2018 at 9:58 pm

          We call "wife beater" the tight, white variety, which are worn more so as an underwear garment. What would you call a running vest, or a basketball vest?
          Reply

          Jul 13, 2018 at 9:58 pm

          • James E says

            July 13, 2018 at 10:38 pm

            If worn whilst not running or playing basketball...??? A wife-beater.

            If talking to someone wearing same in those conditions the socially acceptable (as in not getting beat up) term is "tank top".

            But, yes, you're correct, the tight, white variety is the archetype for the term.
            Reply

            Jul 13, 2018 at 10:38 pm

      • Ken F says

        July 14, 2018 at 3:57 am

        Ahh yes! We call that a tank top over here (although some people use the slang term “wife beater”). We also have what is known as a sleeveless t-shirt, or a “muscle tee”. These look like a normal t-shirt with the sleeves cut off but they pretty much went out of style back in the 80’s - almost as soon as they came into style.

        As for the tank top, it has been used as an undergarment since before my dad’s time, but these days oversized tank tops are also worn as sportswear or when doing other hot and sweaty activities.

        Anyway, here in the states a “vest” is an armless top, which buttons up in the front. Bikers and cowboys sometimes wear leather vests and a vest is also sometimes part of a business suit (known as a 3-piece suit).

        So just out of curiosity, what exactly do you call what we call a vest over here? I always thought I was pretty well versed on British English after living with a bunch of Brits but that one seems to have somehow slipped right by me.
        Reply

        Jul 14, 2018 at 3:57 am

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 16, 2018 at 5:59 pm

          I think we'd call that a vest or a tank top. A tank top here is just any sleeveless, muscle type top that isn't a vest, as you described.
          Reply

          Jul 16, 2018 at 5:59 pm

  7. Tide Swell says

    July 9, 2018 at 3:20 am

    “Even though you will most likely see plenty of cleavage on show from young Thai women, particularly in Bangkok, you don’t get a pass because you are the foreigner

    That’s the way it goes.”

    What deplorable double standards. So it’s OK for a Thai woman to show her cleavage, but not acceptable for a Western woman to do so, purely on the grounds of race?
    Disgraceful. How dare you advocate such hypocrisy?
    Reply

    Jul 09, 2018 at 3:20 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 9, 2018 at 6:23 pm

      Not advocating it. Just telling you how it is. Not every Thai is of this opinion, but generally it is frowned upon. And many Thais would frown upon their own doing it too.
      Reply

      Jul 09, 2018 at 6:23 pm

  8. Neil Fleming says

    June 27, 2018 at 3:25 pm

    Thank you very good as always. Ladies at the Grand Palace open shoes might see you wearing a pair selected for you and not flattering. Wear enclosed shoes. Never ceases to amaze me that Euro and other tourist would never enter the Vatican or other special places in "holiday gear ".
    An advantage of wearing nice casual clothes dressed respectfully will give you entry to deluxe hotels. You will be amazed how much nicer their toilets are and the gardens and views.
    Reply

    Jun 27, 2018 at 3:25 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      June 28, 2018 at 4:59 pm

      Hahah. I like that: Dress casual and then no one questions you when you walk into a posh hotel and use the toilet. They probably wouldn't question a foreigner anyway. The majority of people wear vest and shorts on holiday regardless of the hotel they are staying in.
      Reply

      Jun 28, 2018 at 4:59 pm

  9. Thomas says

    June 20, 2018 at 2:38 am

    As usual. Good Information. Thanks for sharing. Best website out there. Bar none.
    Reply

    Jun 20, 2018 at 2:38 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      June 20, 2018 at 5:07 pm

      Thank you Thomas!
      Reply

      Jun 20, 2018 at 5:07 pm

  10. Jaroslav says

    April 12, 2018 at 9:07 pm

    Yes, good article. Things are quite simple in Thailand! The key word is DECENCY. Thai are very tolerant people, so this quality should not be abused. And remember, Thais have no inclination to multiculturalism, they are not stupid! They have old and wonderful culture (May be not so prominent in BKK) and this gives us great opportunity to learn the true meaning of culture. Never forget to wear a smile.
    Reply

    Apr 12, 2018 at 9:07 pm

  11. Pat says

    April 4, 2018 at 2:55 am

    I still find it bizarre that, despite the warnings and notices, many young tourists think it's all fine to appear at immigration wearing vests, shorts and flipflops.

    Ditto young women tourists, sometimes too much skin, thighs, cleavage on show.. It's immigration, not a beach shack serving buckets.
    Reply

    Apr 04, 2018 at 2:55 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      April 4, 2018 at 3:09 am

      I think it's just a case of following the crowd. Everyone else seems to do it, so people think that that is the norm. I don't think I've ever seen anyone being warned or told off about the dress code anywhere in Thailand, though I certainly have seen some frowns and stares.
      Reply

      Apr 04, 2018 at 3:09 am

      • Tide Swell says

        July 9, 2018 at 3:06 am

        “Frowns and STAIRS?”
        Do you even speak English?
        Reply

        Jul 09, 2018 at 3:06 am

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 9, 2018 at 3:55 am

          I have been using dictation software because I've had a hand injury. Occasionally it makes mistakes. Please go elsewhere if you want to insult people.
          Reply

          Jul 09, 2018 at 3:55 am

  12. James E says

    March 31, 2018 at 7:57 am

    Hi TTL,Brilliant post! This one of the biggest issues I see 'round the world and not just in Thailand. I've developed the "Driver Default"wardrobe which in short is just dress like most taxi drivers. It's mostly long pants, a collared shirt (although I see more T-shirted drivers in Thailand than elsewhere. And No Backpacks! The largest number for farang related eye-rolls I see is when people wearing backpacks don't take them off in public transportation. They've forgotten that they are now as thick as a water buffalo is long and wreak havoc on their hapless neighbors when the doors open behind them.I had a really difficult quest for workable footwear. I've got all sorts of foot problems while at the same time really love to walk. I was introduced to Olukai sandals the year before last and found them amazing. I can now walk from hell to breakfast across Bangkok and return with no pain. I just bought a pair of their normal shoes and am going to test them out this trip.I go the other way when it comes to fabrics. Nothing but cotton. I've found that the wicking/synthetic fabrics feel more like I'm wearing an extra layer of skin despite their benefits. They are a bit cooler in the shade but I find them much hotter in the sun.
    Reply

    Mar 31, 2018 at 7:57 am

    • Pat says

      April 4, 2018 at 3:01 am

      I dress casually in Bangkok. Long trousers, jeans.

      I have an unwritten rule, no shorts with flipflops.

      Jeans and flipflops is fine.

      Touts in tourist areas tend not to offer you a taxis, gold shop temple tours or .....worse
      Reply

      Apr 04, 2018 at 3:01 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      April 4, 2018 at 3:07 am

      Hi James, I like the "driver default mode" idea, that's quite a good code to follow. I forgot to mention the backpacks thing. I see this on the MRT and BTS a lot; backpacks getting swung around and almost into some unsuspecting Thai person's face. I know it isn't intentional and is probably very easy to become unaware that your backpack makes you about twice as thick, but Thai people can be quiet a bit shorter than Western folk and therefore the backpacks can be quite a hazard. I had not heard of those sandals, and having a look online now.
      Reply

      Apr 04, 2018 at 3:07 am

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thethailandlife

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Hotels: Agoda offers good deals on hotels in Thailand. This is because they are located in the region and secure lots of special promotions. It's also worth trying Booking.com and Hotels.com for comparison.

Travel Insurance: SafetyWing is great for trips to Thailand and elsewhere. I've used them many times. If you're from the UK/Europe you can also try True Traveller.

Over 70? Insure My Trip. has policies for those struggling to find travel insurance cover due to age restrictions.

Bank Account

Need an international bank account that holds multiple currencies and lets you transfer, receive & spend wherever you are, with a MasterCard. I've used one for 4 years. Check out Wise.

Rent / Buy Property

Looking for an apartment to rent or a home to buy? For the largest selection of properties in Thailand, and a completely free service, visit PropertyScout here.

Data Security

To keep your data secure you should use a VPN when using public WIFI and when accessing internet banking and other sensitive information online. I use both Vypr VPN and Nord VPN.

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