Thailand still feels magical on a first or second visit, but the rules in 2025–26 are not the same as a few years ago. Entry rules, weather patterns, and even arrival cards are more digital now, so updated advice matters more than old blog posts or memories from pre-COVID trips.
This guide walks through the key Thailand travel tips for 2025–26 in plain English. It covers visa exemptions and new digital systems, the best months to visit, money and safety basics, and why adding quieter places like Chiang Rai makes a trip feel more real and less like a rush between tourist hot spots.
Entry Rules and Visas for Thailand in 2025–26
For most short‑term tourists, visiting Thailand in 2025–26 is still simple, but it does need a bit more planning before the flight.
Many passport holders from Europe, North America, and parts of Asia can enter without a visa for a medium‑length stay. Others need a tourist visa in advance. On top of that, new systems such as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and upcoming Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mean travellers should check official sites shortly before departure, not months ahead.
A clear summary of the new travel requirement for visitors to Thailand in 2025 is available on the Thai Embassy website at this guidance page.
Visa exemption, 60‑day stays, and how long tourists can visit
Most visitors from visa‑exempt countries now receive:
- 60 days visa‑free on arrival for tourism
- A possible 30‑day extension inside Thailand at immigration, for up to 90 days in total
Basic conditions usually include:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Enough funds for the stay, often checked only at random
There is also a yearly limit on how many times tourists can use the visa exemption. From late 2025, most travellers can only enter this way twice per calendar year. Frequent border runs are no longer a good idea for long stays.
New Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and ETA: what travellers must do
From 1 May 2025, Thailand began rolling out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for almost all foreign visitors arriving by air, land, or sea. Instead of filling in a paper form on the plane, travellers complete an online form in the three days before arrival.
The TDAC asks for:
- Passport details
- Flight or transport information
- Planned address for at least the first night
- Basic trip details, such as the purpose of the visit
After submitting the form, travellers receive an email or QR code to show at border control. Forgetting to do this will slow things down at immigration, and in some cases could mean filling it in on a phone at the airport with poor Wi‑Fi and tired kids.
The official TDAC launch notice from the US Embassy in Thailand on this page explains the roll‑out in more detail.
From mid‑2025, an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) will also be added for many visa‑exempt travellers. This is usually a free or low‑cost online pre‑check, done before flying, similar to systems already used in Europe and other regions. Since rules can shift again, visitors should confirm the latest steps on official Thai immigration or embassy sites a few weeks before travel.
When tourists should consider a tourist visa or Destination Thailand Visa
A visa exemption suits most tourists who plan a single holiday of up to 60–90 days. A tourist visa or multi‑entry visa is better when:
- The trip is longer than 90 days
- Several entries over the year are planned
- There is a need for more predictable rules on extensions
For remote workers or people who want to spend longer stretches in the country while working online for overseas clients, the newer Destination Thailand Visa or other long‑stay options may be a better fit than a simple visa exemption.
Any kind of work, study, or long‑term stay needs the correct visa. Overstaying or working on a tourist visa can lead to fines, bans, or cancellation of future trips, so it is safer to pick the right route from the start.
Best Time To Visit Thailand in 2025–26 (Weather, Seasons, Festivals)
Thailand is a year‑round destination, but the feel of a trip changes a lot by month. In 2025–26, weather experts expect the usual pattern, but with a chance of heavier rain in late 2025 and hotter, drier spells linked to El Niño in 2026.
Cool, dry season (Nov–Feb): perfect for most tourists
The period from November to February offers warm days, lower humidity, and bright skies in most regions. Bangkok and central areas sit around the mid‑20s to low‑30s Celsius, which feels comfortable for sightseeing.
In the north, places such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai can drop to single‑digit temperatures at night, especially in the hills. A light jacket or hoodie is handy for early‑morning markets or sunrise viewpoints.
This is also peak season. Hotels and flights cost more, and popular islands and cities feel busy. Travellers who like cooler evenings, clear mountain air, and classic postcard beach days usually prefer these months.
Hot season (Mar–May): when heat lovers enjoy beaches
From March to May, Thailand turns up the heat. Daytime highs often pass 35°C, with strong sun and sticky afternoons.
Heat‑tolerant travellers still enjoy this time, especially on the islands where sea breezes help a little. It suits those who like quieter beaches, long pool days, and air‑conditioned hotel rooms.
Simple heat‑safety habits matter:
- Drink water often, not just soft drinks or beer
- Plan temple visits and city walks early or after 4 pm
- Choose rooms with air conditioning and, if possible, a pool
Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival in mid‑April, falls in this season and turns the heat into a giant water fight.
Rainy season (Jun–Oct): green scenery, but plan around storms
The rainy season runs roughly from June to October. Monsoon showers often come in short, heavy bursts in the late afternoon or evening, then clear.
Travel is still possible, and prices have dropped in many areas. Rice fields turn bright green, waterfalls swell, and cities feel less dusty. Some Gulf islands, such as Koh Samui, can have better weather than the Andaman side at certain points.
Forecasts hint that September and October 2025 might bring heavier rains and some flooding in parts of the country. Flexible plans, good travel insurance, and a relaxed attitude to the odd wet day will make trips during this period smoother.
Festivals and events worth timing a Thailand trip around
Two festivals shape many trips:
- Songkran (13–15 April each year) is the Thai New Year, with water fights, street parties, and temple visits across the country.
- Loy Krathong, usually in November, sees people float candle‑lit offerings on rivers and lakes. In Chiang Mai, it often combines with Yi Peng, where thousands of lanterns rise into the sky.
These festivals are beautiful and fun, but they attract big crowds and higher prices. Those who want to visit at these times should book flights and key hotels months ahead.
Planning a Thailand Itinerary for 2025–26 (Including Chiang Rai)
A simple way to think about a Thailand route is to mix three elements: a big city, a northern base, and an island or coastal stop.
Classic first‑time route: Bangkok, islands, and northern cities
A relaxed 10–14-day trip might look like:
- 3–4 nights in Bangkok
- 3–4 nights in Chiang Mai and/or Chiang Rai
- 4–6 nights on an island or beach in the south
Trains, buses, and short flights link these areas well. Travellers with more time can stretch stays rather than adding too many extra stops. Slow travel leaves space for rest days, street‑food wandering, and last‑minute ideas from locals.
Why tourists should add Chiang Rai to their Thailand trip
Chiang Rai is a quieter northern city that pairs well with Chiang Mai. It offers:
- Striking temples such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
- Green hills and tea plantations
- Smaller, more relaxed night markets
- A calm local pace away from big crowds
Two to four days in Chiang Rai works well. It suits travellers who care about culture and scenery more than nightlife and shopping malls, and who want to see a different side of Thailand without long extra travel days.
Where Chiang Rai fits by season and trip style
Chiang Rai shines in the cool season, when blue skies and cooler air make trekking, cycling, and rural day trips pleasant. During the hot season, early starts and shaded cafés help. In the rainy season, showers make the hills vivid and fresh, though some dirt roads can get muddy.
It is a good pick for visitors who feel that islands might be too busy, or who want mountain views, local villages, and gentle evenings instead of loud bars.
Money, Safety, and Health Tips Tourists Need in 2025–26
Daily life in Thailand is still straightforward for most tourists. A bit of cash management, common‑sense safety, and basic health care go a long way.
Paying in Thailand: cash, cards, and daily budgets
Thailand remains a cash‑friendly country, especially in markets, small cafés, and rural areas. Big hotels, malls, and many mid‑range restaurants accept cards and contactless payments.
ATMs are widely available but usually charge a fixed fee per withdrawal, so taking out larger amounts less often can cut costs. Keeping some Thai baht on hand for taxis, snacks, and small tips keeps things simple.
Typical daily budgets vary by style: budget travellers might stay in guesthouses and eat street food, while mid‑range visitors pick boutique hotels and a mix of markets and sit‑down restaurants. High‑end resorts and fine‑dining restaurants cost far more but are optional extras, not a requirement for comfort.
Staying safe: common tourist scams and how to avoid trouble
Most trips pass without serious problems, but a few annoyances repeat:
- Taxi and tuk-tuk overcharging: Use ride‑hailing apps where possible, or ask for the meter. Agree on a price before riding in tuk-tuks.
- Fake or low‑quality tours: check online reviews and book with known companies.
- Motorbike rental issues: take photos of any damage before driving off, wear a helmet, and carry a valid licence.
- Bars and card scams: keep bank cards in sight when paying, and avoid running large tabs in places that feel pushy.
Carrying drugs or vaping gear is a serious offence, with strict penalties. Respecting local laws keeps small problems from turning into big ones.
Health tips for Thailand’s heat, food, and outdoor adventures
Simple health habits make trips far more pleasant:
- Drink plenty of water, especially in the hot season
- Use sunscreen and a hat during the day
- Go easy on alcohol in strong heat
- Choose busy food stalls where dishes are cooked fresh
Travellers should pack any regular medicines, bring basic supplies like painkillers and plasters, and have travel insurance that covers medical care. In rural or jungle areas, insect repellent helps reduce mosquito bites.
Culture, Etiquette, and Getting Around Thailand Smoothly
Thai people are generally patient and kind with visitors who try to show respect. A few easy habits help avoid awkward moments.
Respecting Thai culture: temples, dress, and basic manners
In temples and some homes, shoes come off at the door. Shoulders and knees should be covered in sacred places, so a light scarf or long shorts help.
It is polite not to touch monks, especially if the visitor is female, and to keep voices calm in public areas. Simple Thai phrases like “sawasdee kha/krub” for hello and “khop khun kha/krub” for thank you can brighten many small encounters.
Transport tips: flights, trains, buses, and local rides
Domestic flights work best for long routes, such as Bangkok to the southern islands or the far north. Trains and buses suit those who like slower travel, especially between Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and nearby towns.
In cities, travellers mix taxis, tuk tuks, songthaews (shared pick‑up trucks), and ride‑hailing apps. Keeping valuables close, avoiding very tight connections, and allowing extra time in heavy rain or rush hour all help trips run more smoothly.
A smooth trip to Thailand in 2025–26 rests on a few simple steps: check the latest visa, TDAC, and ETA rules before flying, pick a season that fits personal heat and rain tolerance, and mix big‑name spots with calmer places like Chiang Rai.
Add in basic money sense, scam awareness, and kind respect for local culture, and Thailand still feels as warm and welcoming as ever. A little planning now makes room later for what matters most: long street‑food dinners, quiet temple courtyards, and those first views over palm trees and sea.
