Tips from Locals: How to Stay Safe While Traveling in Thailand

Dr. Theodore (Professor Bear) 9 min read

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Thailand is famous for its lively culture, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. Still, it can also be challenging for tourists in many ways. Safety should always come first, whether you're going to walk through the busy streets of Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), see the old ruins of Ayutthaya, or relax on the beaches of Phuket.

Thai people are very religious and follow old traditions. Lack of knowledge may unintentionally result in disrespectful conduct.

So, understand the general "dos and don'ts," and ask the locals if you're unsure what to do. You can avoid common problems by following the advice in this article, which we compiled using information gathered from Thai locals. 

Identifying the Common Risks in Thailand

Thailand is usually a safe place to visit, but it does have its share of risks and threats, just like any other country. Learning about these risks before you start your trip is critical. For your safety, here are some of the most common concerns to think about:

• Scams
  • Tourists are a common target for con artists; scams are sometimes nothing new in Thailand.
  • Be careful when strangers approach you and offer deals that seem too good to be true. In tourist places, be extra cautious and always go with your gut.
  • Here are some common scams that you need to be aware of:
    
    
    • Tuk-Tuk Scams
      One of the most common scams in Thailand involves some Tuk-Tuk drivers who offer tours of places for meager prices. Sadly, travelers on these tours are often led to places or shops that charge too much or that they didn't agree to go to. Always agree on the price and the location you want to visit before you start your trip.
      
      
    • Jet Ski Scams
      As the name suggests, these scams usually happen at beaches where you can rent jet skis. Some dishonest operators may say you damaged their equipment and charge substantial repair costs. Please take pictures of the jet ski before you rent it so you have proof of how it looked before you rented it.
      
      
    • Gem Scams
      A friendly local or tuk-tuk driver may tell you about a once-in-a-lifetime sale of valuable gems the government puts on. This is usually the start of a gem scam. The gemstones are usually worthless, and you can't sell them in your home country for any money. It's best not to buy expensive things like gems unless you are an expert or buying from a trustworthy store.

     

  • Always remember that the first thing you can do to stop these scams is to know about them. Watch out, believe your gut, and don't hesitate to say no if something doesn't seem right.

• Car Accidents
  • Thailand's roads are crowded, and some people drive wildly. Car accidents are usually a significant cause of injury and death there.
  • Be careful when you walk, ride a motorcycle, or take the bus or train.

• Natural Disasters
  • Thailand is prone to many natural disasters, such as storms and landslides.
  • Keep up-to-date and pay attention to any advice from the government.

• Street Crime
  • Petty crimes and pickpocketing happen often in tourist places.
  • Keep your valuables safe, and don't bring expensive items or large amounts of money.

• Wildlife Encounters
  • Thailand is home to many beautiful animals, but some can be dangerous to people.
  • Keep your distance from animals and avoid hazardous activities like riding elephants.

Exploring General Safety Tips While in Thailand

Stay Vigilant in Crowded Places 

Thailand is well-known for its packed marketplaces, streets, and other tourist destinations. Even though these spots are must-sees, they can also be easy targets for some thieves and pickpockets. Always keep your goods safe and know what's happening around you.

Dress Respectfully 

Thai society emphasizes modesty, particularly in religious settings. When you go to temples, churches, or other holy places, it's best to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. This will show that you value the country's culture and might help you avoid trouble.

Be Mindful of Your Alcohol Consumption 

Alcohol is readily available in Thailand, but it's essential to drink responsibly. A few drink-spiking incidents have been reported in popular tourist areas, so be cautious and never leave your drink unattended.

Research Before Partaking in Adventure Activities 

Thailand has a lot of exciting things to do, like scuba diving in clear water and zip lining through the jungle. But it's essential to look into the company's safety record and read reviews before you go on any adventure activity. Never put your safety at risk for the sake of chasing thrills.

Choose Reliable Transportation 

As mentioned earlier, traffic accidents are a significant concern in Thailand. Be sure to choose reliable transportation options and avoid taking risks on poorly maintained vehicles or with inexperienced drivers.

Trust Your Instincts 

If you're traveling around Thailand and something doesn't feel right, go with your gut and escape the situation. Regarding your safety, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Always trust your gut, listen to the people who live there, and do research before going on an adventure in this beautiful country!

Food and Water Safety 

Thai cuisine is well-known for its rich and varied dishes, but food and water safety measures must be taken. Remember these things:

• Avoid Drinking Tap Water
  • Stick to bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas. 
    
    
• Be Aware of Ice Cubes
  • Make sure that any ice used in drinks is made from purified water.
    
    
• Wash Fruits and Vegetables Thoroughly
  • Before eating raw fruits or vegetables, wash them with clean water.
    
    
• Eat Cooked Food
  • Choose hot and freshly cooked meals over pre-packaged ones to reduce the risk of food poisoning. 

Remember, trust your instincts when it comes to food choices. If something doesn't look or smell right, it's best to avoid it. 

Health Precautions 

Before traveling to Thailand, taking the necessary health precautions is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Get Vaccinated
  • Consult with your healthcare provider beforehand and get any recommended vaccinations.
    
    
• Protect Against Mosquito Bites
  • Dengue fever and malaria are prevalent in Thailand. Use insect repellent and cover up when spending time outdoors.
    
    
• Be Cautious of Street Food
  • While Thai street food is delicious, it's also important to ensure it is prepared safely before consumption.
    
    
• Stay Hydrated
  • With hot weather year-round, staying hydrated is crucial for your health. Carry a water bottle with you always and drink plenty of fluids.

Respect Local Laws and Customs 

Respecting local laws and customs is essential when visiting Thailand. Here are some important aspects to keep in mind:

• Be Respectful of the Monarchy
  • Thailand's monarchy is highly revered, so be mindful of your words and actions.
    
    
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection
  • While it may be acceptable in Western countries, public displays of affection (such as kissing or hugging) are considered inappropriate in Thailand.
    
    
• Dress Modestly in Religious Sites
  • Appropriately dress when visiting temples and other sacred places.

By respecting the country's laws and customs, you respect its culture and avoid potential legal issues.

Adventure Activity Safety 

Thailand has several thrilling sports. Before doing any adventure activity, check the safety record and reviews. Always put your safety first, even if you're in the middle of an exciting adventure.

Beach and Water Safety 

Thailand is home to beautiful beaches and stunning islands, but practicing water safety is crucial when swimming or participating in any water activities. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Be aware of Rip Currents
  • These can be strong and dangerous, so always check with locals or lifeguards before entering the water.
    
    
• Wear a Life Jacket
  • Accidents can happen, so it's essential to take precautions by always wearing a life jacket.
    
    
• Follow Warning Signs
  • Pay attention to any warning signs posted on beaches. They are there for your safety.

By following all these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Thailand without putting yourself at risk. Remember, always prioritize your safety.

Staying Safe in Different Thailand Locations

Cities and Tourist Areas

Thailand's cities and popular tourist areas are generally safe, but taking precautions is still essential. Here are some tips for staying safe in these locations:

• Avoid Carrying Large Sums of Cash
  • Pickpocketing is common in busy cities, so only take the money you need for the day.
    
    
• Be Cautious at Night
  • Like any city, it is best to avoid walking alone and stick to well-lit areas.
    
    
• Stay Informed About Protests
  • Protests can occur in various parts of Thailand, especially in Bangkok. Stay informed through local news sources and avoid areas where demonstrations occur.

Rural Areas

While rural areas may offer a more authentic experience of Thailand, they also come with their own set of safety precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe in rural areas:

• Stick to Well-known Trails and Paths
  • It's best to stick to them when hiking or exploring. Venturing off the beaten path can be dangerous.
    
    
• Be Cautious of Stray Animals
  • While Thailand is known for its friendly street dogs, it is always essential to approach them cautiously.
    
    
• Respect local customs
  • In rural areas, locals may have different customs and practices than you're used to. Always show respect and ask for permission before taking photos or participating in cultural activities.

Always trust your instincts and avoid any situation that doesn't feel right.

Discovering Thailand's Cultural Norms and Etiquettes

Thailand has a diverse culture that Buddhism primarily influences. Knowing about norms and manners is vital before you go to this beautiful country to avoid any problems. Remember these things:

• Remove Your Shoes
  • Enter barefoot in homes and temples. This is a sign of respect in Thai culture.
    
    
• Dress Appropriately
  • When visiting religious sites or government buildings, dress modestly and make sure you also cover your shoulders and knees.
    
    
• Show Respect for the Monarchy
  • The Thai people hold their royal family in high regard, so it's essential to show respect when discussing the monarchy.
    
    
• Avoid Pointing with Your Feet
  • In Thailand, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body, so pointing at someone or something with your feet is rude.

By being mindful of these cultural norms and etiquettes, you respect the local culture and avoid potential misunderstandings or offenses. 

Why Listening to Thailand Locals Matters? 

Locals can help you stay safe while you're traveling in Thailand. You can benefit much from their knowledge of local customs and how to avoid offending people in their country. They are also very familiar with possible dangers and can give you helpful advice on how to stay safe.

Here are some reasons why it's essential to listen to locals

• Insider Knowledge
  • Locals know everything about it, from its habits and customs to its hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots.
  • You might learn about a side of Thailand that most people never see if you listen to them.
    
    
• Cultural Understanding
  • Each country has its own culture, which can help you fit in better.
  • Locals can help you understand cultural differences by telling you about their social rules, customs, and etiquette.
    
    
• Safety Tips
  • Locals offer valuable advice on safety in their country, including knowing where to avoid scams at night.
  • If you listen to them, you might be able to avoid risks or accidents.

Essential Thailand Emergency Contact Information

Knowing who to contact is important during an emergency in Thailand. Here is a list of significant numbers:

• Tourist Police: 1155
• Police (General Emergency Call): 191
• Ambulance and Rescue: 1554
• Fire: 199
• Medical Emergency Call: 1669
• Highway Police: 1193

Always keep these numbers handy and dial the country code (+66) before the number if you're calling from a non-Thai phone.

Preparing is necessary to ensure your trip to Thailand is safe, pleasant, and fun. Knowing the area laws, customs, and safety rules is essential. Putting your safety first and following local rules is important whether you're experiencing busy cities, quiet rural areas, or exciting adventures.

Make sure you always have easy access to your critical emergency contacts. By doing this, you can fully experience Thailand's rich culture and stunning landscapes, making memories that will last a lifetime. Have a great trip!