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Bangkok Travel Tips: Things You Should Know Before You Go

Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Bangkok

As one of the world's most visited cities (according to Mastercard), Bangkok draws countless travelers to Thailand's vibrant capital each day. Eager to explore, eat, shop, and immerse themselves in the local culture, many arrive solely to sample every delicious bite of street food they can find; indeed, Bangkok has rightfully earned its title as the “Street Food Capital.”

Every year, we can’t help but fly over and spend a few weeks here to get our Bangkok fix. After so many visits, we find ourselves drawn back year after year for our "Bangkok fix." After so many trips, friends planning their first visit often ask us what to expect or watch out for, especially since first-timers often feel a mix of excitement and a little anxiety. To help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable, we’ve put together some essential things to know before you travel independently in Thailand (with a focus on Bangkok).

About the World’s Most Visited City
This ranking comes from Mastercard’s Global Destination Cities Index. Since 2015, Bangkok has consistently topped the list as the city most visited by international travelers. In the 2018 report, Bangkok welcomed over 20.5 million visitors, with London and Paris coming in second and third. On average, international visitors stay about 4.7 nights in Bangkok.

This guide, “Bangkok Travel Tips: Things You Should Know Before You Go,” focuses on the questions and cultural quirks travelers most often encounter, such as tipping etiquette, cultural differences, and common tourist scams.

For other practical tips, including what to pack or how to stay safe, be sure to check out our other detailed articles: What to Pack for Thailand: 35 Essentials to Check Off Your List, Thailand Voltage & Plug Guide: How to Charge Your Devices, Is Bangkok Safe? Solo Travel Safety Tips for Food, Transport, and More

Alright, let’s dive in!

1. Thailand Isn’t Really a Tipping Culture: When to Tip and When Not To

Many people assume Thailand is a country where tipping is expected everywhere — what we’d call a “tipping culture.” You’ll even see this idea pop up in travel blogs from time to time. But the truth is, Thailand is not a tipping culture the same way the United States is.

For example, in the US, it’s normal to tip almost anytime you dine out, grab coffee, or receive service; it’s simply part of the bill. In Bangkok, however, no one will stand next to your table waiting for you to leave a tip. Even in upscale restaurants, tipping is not required, and at street food stalls or night markets, it’s never expected. Just like in many Western countries where service charges or taxes are already included in your bill, you simply pay the total amount — no extra math needed. The same goes for taxis, tuk-tuks, or Grab rides; the price is clear up front.

Of course, if you feel the service was truly exceptional, you’re welcome to tip — but remember, it’s totally optional.

That said, there are a few exceptions where tipping is more common, such as:

When hotel staff help carry your luggage.
When housekeeping cleans your room (place the tip on your pillow).
After a massage — you tip the therapist directly, not the shop.

For these situations, a typical tip is about $1 USD or 30–50 THB for hotel staff. For massage therapists, if you really enjoyed their work, 100–200 THB is generous; if you weren’t so impressed, a symbolic 50 THB is still polite.

2. Where to Exchange Money in Bangkok? SuperRich is the Best

Exchanging currency is one of the most important parts of any overseas trip. If it’s your first time in a new city, you might feel overwhelmed by the endless money exchange booths and wildly different rates.

In Bangkok, your best bet is SuperRich. SuperRich is a popular chain of privately run currency exchange counters across the city. They’re known for their competitive rates and you’ll spot them in two main colors: green and orange (there are other colors too, but less common). Both are fine — either one usually offers a better rate than banks or random street booths.

Always bring your passport when exchanging money. Also, keep in mind that most exchange counters — including those inside BTS or MRT stations and malls — close by 8 PM.

For a complete list of SuperRich locations and hours, check out our full guide: Where to Exchange Money in Bangkok: SuperRich Branches & Hours

3. Make Sure Your ATM Card Works for International Withdrawals

Another thing you should always check before you fly is whether your ATM card is enabled for international withdrawals.

In case you run out of cash, misplace it, or just spend your Thai baht faster than planned — and the exchange counters are already closed — you’ll need your ATM card to withdraw money.

One thing many travelers don’t realize: your everyday ATM card usually works with a chip, but international ATM withdrawals often use the magnetic stripe (on the back of your card). The stripe can get demagnetized easily and you might not notice since you rarely use it at home. So, before you leave, visit your bank and have them test the magnetic stripe to make sure it works.

Your international ATM PIN may be different too — many banks issue a separate four-digit PIN for overseas withdrawals. Since you probably never use it at home, double-check that you know it and it’s active before your trip.

Also, make sure your card is part of a global ATM network like Visa Plus, MasterCard Cirrus, or UnionPay — look for these logos on ATMs to avoid extra hassle.

4. Tap Water in Bangkok is Not Safe to Drink (Even if Boiled)

Tap water in Bangkok is not safe to drink. And boiling it doesn’t make it safe either — it should only be used for washing or bathing.

Because Bangkok is hot and humid, you’ll want to stay hydrated at all times. Thankfully, bottled water is cheap and easy to find at any convenience store. For example, a small bottle of Nestlé costs about 6–7 THB, and a large one is around 14 THB; the 7-Select brand is usually even cheaper.

Many hotels provide two complimentary bottles of drinking water per day, but we still recommend buying a few large bottles to keep in your room, plus smaller ones to take when you head out. You’ll sweat a lot, so make sure you drink plenty of water!

Since the tap water isn’t drinkable, be extra cautious with street food ice. If you’re not sure whether the ice was made with purified water, it’s best to skip it — better safe than sorry.

5. Thai Food: “Mild Spicy” Isn’t Always Mild

Bangkok Street Food: Tasty, But Mind the Spice!

If you love spicy food, Thailand will be a dream come true — just about every dish comes with a fiery kick.

But if you’re not a fan of heat, things can get challenging. Thai food labeled as “spicy” is seriously hot, and even “mild spicy” can make you break a sweat. Sometimes, even when you ask for no spice, your dish still shows up with a surprise burn. It makes you wonder — have Thais just built up a spice immunity, or did the staff forget your request? Either way, if you want to avoid the heat, be clear and say “No Spicy.” If your server doesn’t understand English, say it in Thai: ไม่เผ็ด (pronounced *mai phet*). It might not be 100% spice-free, but it’s way better than the usual level of heat.

6. Some Fruits Are Banned from Hotel Rooms and Public Spaces

Thailand is famous for its delicious tropical fruits — some you can’t easily find elsewhere, or they cost a fortune back home. So, it’s pretty common for travelers to buy fresh fruit from street stalls or supermarkets to enjoy later in their hotel room.

But watch out: fruits like durian and mangosteen are often not allowed inside hotel rooms. Some hotels will fine guests who ignore this policy (fines can range from 1,000–2,000 THB). It’s not just hotels — some public places ban these fruits too.

Why the strict rules? Durian’s smell is famously strong; it spreads quickly and lingers for days, which not everyone appreciates. Mangosteen is banned because its dark juice can easily stain bed sheets and pillows. So before you stock up on fruit, double-check your hotel’s policy!

7. Mall Food Courts Have Their Own Payment System: Prepaid or Charge Cards

Bangkok is packed with amazing food, but mall food courts are still a go-to for many visitors. They offer lots of options, clean seating, air conditioning, and wallet-friendly prices. But the payment system is different from what most travelers are used to — it can be confusing if you’ve never done it before.

In Bangkok’s mall food courts, you’ll usually find three payment methods:

Buy a prepaid card first, then get a refund for any unused balance when you’re done.
Use a charge card, which you pay off at the cashier when you’re finished eating.
A few food courts still let you pay vendors directly with cash, but this is less common.

Buy a Prepaid Card, Get a Refund When You Leave

The first system is the most common: you buy a prepaid card and get a refund for any leftover balance when you’re done eating. Major malls like Terminal 21, Siam Paragon, MBK, and The EmQuartier all use this system.

Here’s how it works at Terminal 21’s famous Pier 21 Food Court: when you arrive, go to the cashier booth near the entrance and load up a prepaid card — you can choose any amount. Let’s say you add 200 THB. If you want mango sticky rice for 35 THB, just hand the card to the vendor to swipe it; now your balance is 165 THB and you can keep ordering from other stalls. If you spend 150 THB total, go back to the cashier when you’re ready to leave and they’ll refund your remaining 50 THB.

Just remember: don’t lose your card! If you misplace it, you won’t get your money back.

Use a Charge Card, Pay All at Once When You Leave

The second system is similar but you don’t pay upfront — you settle the bill afterward. For example, at the Eathai Food Hall in Central Embassy, you’ll be given a long paper charge card when you enter. Each person gets one and you need to keep it safe — lose it and you could be charged a default fee of 1,000 THB. Every time you order something, the vendor swipes your card to record it. When you’re ready to leave, hand the card to the cashier, and they’ll total up your bill for you to pay in one go.

Pay Vendors Directly with Cash

The third way is the simplest: just pay each vendor directly with cash — exactly like food courts in many other countries. For example, SookSiam Food Court at IconSiam works this way. However, this system is less common in Bangkok’s mall food courts — the prepaid or charge card system is far more common, especially the prepaid one.

8. Get Around Bangkok Using the MRT and BTS (Metro and Skytrain)

Bangkok traffic can get really congested!

One of the smartest ways to get around Bangkok is to use the MRT (metro) and the BTS (Skytrain). These two public transit systems cover a lot of the city and make it easy to reach most major attractions. For areas like the Old Town (Grand Palace, Chinatown, Khao San Road, or the Ghost Gate area), you can also hop on a canal boat or the Chao Phraya River ferry.

Another big reason to use public transport: Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. It’s common for major roads to turn into giant outdoor parking lots without warning. If you’re stuck in a taxi, you’ll quickly wish you’d walked a few extra blocks to catch the MRT or BTS instead!

The MRT is government-operated, so tickets tend to be cheaper. For the same distance, BTS fares are a bit higher. So if both lines go to your destination, the MRT is the budget-friendly choice. That said, BTS stations are more densely spaced and often more convenient for sightseeing.

9. Metered Taxis, Tuk-Tuks, or Grab: How to Choose the Right Ride

If you need to take a taxi in Bangkok, always check that the car has a “By Meter” sign. This means the driver should use the meter instead of quoting you a flat fare — otherwise, you’ll likely be overcharged. Unfortunately, the “By Meter” sign is sometimes just for show. It’s not uncommon to get in, barely settle into your seat, and have the driver switch to haggling for a fixed price instead, which can be frustrating and awkward.

Your best bet is to download the Grab app before your trip, sign up in advance, and activate it as soon as you land in Thailand (Note: you can register abroad but you can’t activate the service until you’re in a Grab service area). Then, whenever you need a ride, just use Grab instead.

Grab works the same way as Uber — the fare is transparent and the route is clearly tracked. In fact, Uber has merged with Grab in Thailand, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries, so Grab is your go-to.

As for tuk-tuks, many visitors want to ride one at least once just for the experience of zipping through Bangkok’s streets — and that’s fine, but once is probably enough.

Tuk-tuks are fun but can come with their own pricing headaches. While most drivers are honest, a few might try to haggle or overcharge, which can put a damper on your day. And don’t think tuk-tuks can magically skip traffic jams — they get stuck in gridlock just like cars do. Plus, sitting in a tuk-tuk breathing in exhaust fumes during a traffic jam isn’t exactly fun!

10. Never Criticize the Royal Family or Royal Symbols

In Thailand, it’s strictly illegal to criticize the royal family or anything that represents the monarchy. It’s a criminal offense. Whenever you’re near royal sites, institutions, or images of the king, be mindful and respectful — don’t joke around, make loud comments, or gesture rudely. Always keep a polite, respectful attitude.

11. Monks Are Highly Respected in Thailand

Thailand is a Buddhist country with deep-rooted temple traditions, and monks are highly respected. For example, when riding the MRT or BTS Skytrain, you’ll see priority seating signs not only for the elderly, pregnant, or disabled, but also for monks.

Female travelers should never touch a monk. If you see an empty seat next to a monk on the train, it’s best for women to avoid sitting there — otherwise, the monk may immediately stand up and leave, which could draw unwanted stares from other passengers.

Also, when visiting temples, dress respectfully: no sleeveless tops, short shorts, or skirts above the knee. Keep your behavior calm and polite inside temple grounds too.

12. The Thai National Anthem Plays at 8 AM and 6 PM

In Thailand, the national anthem is played every day at 8 AM and again at 6 PM on radio stations and in many public places — like train stations, BTS and MRT stations, and even in movie theaters. When you hear it, you’ll see locals stop, remove their hats if they’re wearing one, and stand quietly until it finishes. As a visitor, it’s respectful to do the same — just pause and stand still with everyone else until it’s over.

13. Expect Security Checks at Stations and Shopping Malls

Another thing that might feel unusual if you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time: you’ll often see security checks at BTS stations and at the entrances of many large shopping malls.

At train stations, security staff do quick, random bag checks after you pass through the ticket gates. It only takes a moment and they’re just looking for prohibited items. Large malls like IconSiam, Terminal 21, and CentralWorld also have security lanes where your bag may be checked. If you’re selected, don’t worry — it’s very normal, just cooperate for a few seconds and you’re good to go!

14. Watch Out for Common Tourist Scams

Bangkok is generally safe and welcoming, but like any busy tourist city, there are always a few people trying to take advantage. Here are some common scams to watch out for:

Taxi or tuk-tuk drivers agreeing on a price, then raising it once you’re on the road.
Drivers offering to take you to a famous store or landmark but detouring to a fake version instead.
Someone near a tourist attraction telling you it’s “closed today” and offering a free ride elsewhere — it’s usually a scam.
People (sometimes foreigners) asking to see your foreign currency and then swapping it out when you’re not looking.
Someone who seems like a fellow traveler claims they’ve lost their wallet and asks to “borrow” taxi money — it’s an old trick.

How to Avoid Them:

When it comes to getting around, it’s safest to use Grab or ask your hotel staff to book a taxi for you.

Grab makes pricing clear and the route is tracked in the app, so you can compare it with Google Maps if you’re worried. A taxi arranged by your hotel is also more trustworthy since the driver knows the hotel staff are aware of your destination.

For other scams, just keep your money and valuables discreet and never hand your wallet to strangers. When in doubt about a place’s hours or location, ask your hotel or check online first. Honestly, most experienced travelers spot these scams from a mile away — so just stay aware and enjoy your trip!

15. Tourist Police: Your Best Friend While Traveling in Thailand

Thailand has a dedicated Tourist Police force to help visitors stay safe and handle any problems that come up. There are hundreds of Tourist Police stations throughout Bangkok, including at the Grand Palace, Patpong Night Market, and Lumphini Park, and in other popular spots like Phuket, Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. It’s a great extra layer of safety for travelers.

Even better, in Bangkok, Phuket, Ayutthaya, and Chiang Mai, you’ll often find Tourist Police officers who speak English — and sometimes other languages too — so you don’t have to worry about communication if you ever need help.

To reach the Tourist Police in Thailand, dial 1155 from a local Thai SIM card. Here are a few other important numbers to save:

Emergency Contacts for Tourists in Thailand Use a local Thai SIM card or a public phone to dial these numbers.
U.S. Embassy Bangkok	(+66) 2 205 4000
British Embassy Bangkok	(+66) 2 305 8333
Australian Embassy Bangkok	(+66) 2 344 6300
Canadian Embassy Bangkok	(+66) 2 636 0540
Find Your Embassy in Bangkok	View Full List
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)	(+66) 2 694 1222
Tourist Police	Dial: 1155
Tourist Information Center	Dial: 1672