First Time in Bangkok: 10 Common Traveler Mistakes
What Not to Do in Bangkok on Your 1st Visit
This list of traveling mistakes made by first-time visitors to Bangkok reminds you that everyone has to start somewhere and learn the ropes of a new destination. We’ve collected all the useful travel tips in Bangkok that we wish we knew back before many of us decided to stick around.
From what to pack, where to stay, and how much time to allow to discover the city, there are plenty of things first-time visitors might get wrong. Read on to see some of the most common mistakes made by wide-eyed tourists touching down in Thailand’s capital.
1. Packing too many clothes
Stylish clothes at low prices are easy to find
Good for: Couples, Families, Shoppers
Packing too many clothes to Bangkok is a common mistake, but packing light for any trip, not just to Bangkok, is easier said than done. As the city has such a wide range of affordable shopping options, it genuinely makes sense to pack light and buy most of your travel clothes and essentials once you arrive.
From breezy outfits to toiletries and accessories, you’ll find everything you need. That said, it’s definitely worth packing at least a couple of pairs of underwear, since no one wants to go shopping straight off a long-haul flight.
Packing too many clothes
2. Booking a hotel in the wrong area
The cost of staying too far from the action
Good for: Couples, Families
Bangkok is a big, vibrant, and often congested city, so it really makes sense to avoid booking your hotel in the wrong area. Try to stay as close as possible to the main attractions or neighborhoods where you plan to spend most of your time. The last thing you want is to waste valuable time stuck in traffic when you could be out exploring, shopping, or enjoying great food.
It’s worth checking out a rundown of Bangkok’s most popular districts to find the one that best suits your trip and itinerary.
Booking a hotel in the wrong area
3. Underestimating the sun at the start of your trip
Why your first sun sessions need extra care
Good for: Couples, Families
Many tourists visiting Bangkok look forward to enjoying a relaxing morning lounging by the pool but often underestimate the sun at the start of their trip. If you try to get a deep tan too quickly, you might end up burning your skin. This could leave you looking patchy for the rest of your trip or peeling and going home with the same complexion as when you arrived.
To avoid this, remember to pack sunscreen and apply it regularly. You can start with a high SPF and gradually reduce it over time to build a healthy base tan without damaging your skin.
Underestimating the sun at the start of your trip
4. Underestimating Bangkok’s notorious traffic
Navigating the challenges of busy streets
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families
Underestimating Bangkok’s notorious traffic is a common mistake, but the rush hour traffic is no joke; the roads can get completely gridlocked, causing significant delays. It’s important to leave yourself plenty of extra time when traveling around the city, especially if you’re heading to the airport. Missing dinner plans is regretful, but missing your flight can be a serious pain and expense you definitely want to avoid.
Fortunately, the Bangkok Skytrain (BTS) system continues to improve and is the preferred, fastest way to get around downtown when you’re in a hurry. Using this air-conditioned mode of transportation can save you time and help you avoid the stress of heavy traffic jams.
Underestimating Bangkok’s notorious traffic
5. Not giving yourself enough time in the city
One night isn’t enough to see it all
Good for: Food, Nightlife, Shoppers
In your haste to reach the beaches in southern Thailand, you might not give yourself enough time in the city. But one night in Bangkok is hardly enough time to appreciate everything this vibrant city has to offer.
Sure, there’s no beach here, but Bangkok makes up for it with world-class shopping, dining, nightlife, and entertainment. It’s a truly cosmopolitan city that deserves more than a quick stopover. Take our advice: plan for at least a couple of nights to really soak it all in.
Not giving yourself enough time in the city
6. Not buying a local SIM card to use while in Thailand
Staying connected doesn’t have to be expensive
Good for: Budget, Shoppers
International roaming charges in Bangkok can cost a fortune, so buying a local SIM card to use while in Thailand is the wise choice. This allows you to stay connected and navigate the city without breaking the bank.
Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports both have TrueMove shops with SIM cards available, and you can also get them from plenty of convenience stores, phone shops, and kiosks throughout the city.
Not buying a local SIM card to use while in Thailand
7. Not buying travel insurance
Why peace of mind is worth the extra cost
Good for: Couples, Families
Buying a travel insurance is one of the most important things to take care of for any trip. It might not be the most exciting part of your preparations, but it could end up being the most valuable.
Bangkok is a thrilling, fast-paced city, but like any major destination, things might not always go to plan. Whether it’s a missed connection, lost luggage, or a sudden illness, having coverage gives you peace of mind while exploring the city. In a nutshell, don’t travel without travel insurance.
Not buying travel insurance
8. Exchanging large sums of currency before your trip
Better exchange rates and convenient ATM access throughout the city
Good for: Couples, Families, Shoppers
Another common mistake made by first-time visitors to Bangkok, and Thailand in general, is exchanging large amounts of cash at generally bad exchange rates in their home country.
There’s really no need to do this because exchange rates in Bangkok are almost always better, and ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Additionally, most restaurants and shops accept credit cards, making it easy to pay without carrying large amounts of cash. Plus, you spare yourself the constant patting of pockets or checking of your hand luggage due to the anxiety of losing all your cash while exploring.
Exchanging large sums of currency before your trip
9. Not bargaining (or bargaining too much)
When bartering is expected, and when it’s not
Good for: Budget, Shoppers
Not bargaining, or bargaining too much, can affect your shopping experience at Bangkok markets. Bargaining is all part of the game at these markets, and it’s fun too. Don’t be shy about bartering for a better price by using some tried-and-tested methods.
Yet, don’t get carried away and start bartering in restaurants or 7-Eleven. If you’re paying a bit more for a bottle of water at a remote location, consider the effort it took to get it there and pay the extra.
Not bargaining (or bargaining too much)
10. Not being adventurous enough
There’s more to discover beyond the familiar
Good for: Adventure, Unusual
Not being adventurous enough can limit your experience in Bangkok. This is a safe city and, as long as you keep your wits about you, you can really explore this urban jungle from top to bottom without worry. Don’t just stick to shopping mall meals and western pubs, especially if it’s your first time here.
Instead, follow your feet and see where they take you in Bangkok; you’re bound to discover something truly remarkable. It could be a hidden street food stall, a vibrant market, or a quiet temple tucked away from the busy streets.
Not being adventurous enough
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.