Thailand's visa-free entry period for most backpackers has dropped to 30 days as of September 15, 2026, down from the previously quoted 60 days. Nationals of 60 countries, including the UK, US, Canada and Australia, qualify for this shorter exemption, which now covers tourism only. Business trips require a visa. The Tourism Authority of Thailand confirmed the change.
A 30-day extension is available at Thai immigration offices using form TM.7 and paying 1,900 THB in cash, though approval is not guaranteed. Overstaying carries fines of 500 baht per extra day, up to 20,000 baht, and lengthy overstays can result in bans from re-entry.
Thailand plans to introduce a flat 450-baht entry fee for all foreign visitors, replacing an earlier tiered system. The government targets collection to begin in the first quarter of 2027, starting with air arrivals. As of October 9, 2026, officials still needed to set collection rules and complete a 30-day public hearing before Cabinet approval. Never pay third-party websites for entry fees; wait for the official channel.
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaced the paper arrival card on May 1, 2025. All foreign arrivals must complete the free form at tdac.immigration.go.th within 72 hours before arrival. Copycat sites charging fees are scams. Save the confirmation or QR code screenshot for immigration.
Cannabis shops require customers to have a prescription from a licensed practitioner as of June 2025. Public smoking carries fines. Vaping is banned entirely for tourists and locals alike. Two British tourists paid a 40,000 baht fine in 2025 for vaping on a beach. Alcohol sales restrictions changed on a 180-day trial from December 3, 2025, allowing sales 11am to midnight, but the final status remains unclear.
Backpackers should budget £25 to £30 daily. Dorm beds at Bangkok's Khao San Road hostels range from €7.61 to €16.89 per night as of October 2026. Street food costs around £1 to £2. Thai ATMs charge flat fees of 220 to 350 baht on foreign cards, so withdraw larger amounts less frequently.
Common scams include strangers claiming major sights are closed to redirect you to gem or tailor shops, gem "investment" schemes, jet-ski damage claims, and unmetered taxis. Use Grab or Bolt for fixed upfront pricing. Verify the Grand Palace's actual opening hours yourself rather than relying on unsolicited advice.
Long-distance travel options include overnight trains and buses between Bangkok and Chiang Mai or southern Thailand, which save accommodation costs. Within cities, Bangkok's BTS Skytrain and MRT are faster than taxis. To islands, bus-and-boat combo tickets work best. Scooter rental requires your home driving licence plus an International Driving Permit.