Information for First-Time Travelers
Learn about Thailand’s main airport, SIM cards, currency exchanges, and more.
Suvarnabhumi Bangkok (BKK) Main International Airport
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is Thailand's main international airport. It’s modern, English-friendly, and is relatively simple to get around for first-time travelers.
- Immigration & Arrival
- Immigration & Arrival: Expect to fill out an arrival card on your flight and ~30–60 min at immigration. Collect your bags, walk through customs, and you’re in Thailand!
- Language & Signs
- Language & Signs: Airport signs are in English & Thai. Most airport staff speak basic to moderate English.
- Airport Wi-Fi
- Airport Wi-Fi: For free Wi-Fi, connect to @AirportTrueFreeWiFi.
- Currency & ATMs
- Currency & ATMs: After customs, you can exchange money or withdraw cash at ATMs.
Passport & Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
If you’re travelling out of the country, remember to check your passport. Must be valid for 6+ months.
All visitors who are not Thai citizens must fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before entering the country. Please fill out your TDAC online 3 days in advance before your arrival date in Thailand.
Airalo eSIM card: Stay Connected
Download the Airalo App for Instant Mobile Data. No SIM Card Needed! Skip the airport lines and stay online from the moment you land. With Airalo eSIM, you can install a Thailand data plan in minutes. No Thai phone number, no stress. Activate before your flight to use Grab, Google Maps, WhatsApp/Line, and more right away.
Money tips for Thailand
What to know for currency exchanges and before you withdraw.
- Tips
- Tips: Exchange your currency at your local bank at least 2 weeks before your trip. Bring around 2,000 Baht/day (~$60) for meals, transport, and daily spending. Add an extra 3,000–6,000 baht for shopping or sightseeing.
- Atm fees
- Atm fees: All ATMs in Thailand charge a flat 220 Baht fee (~$7) per withdrawal. If using at ATM, withdraw a large amount (~20,000 baht) to avoid multiple transaction fees. If the ATM machine offers to convert your home currency, always decline to avoid in-machine exchange rates.
Resources, Tips, & Tricks
Check the weather & stay cool in the heat
See the forecast near the wedding venue at Royal Cliff Grand Hotel. Thailand is hot and humid. If you're sensitive to heat, bring a portable electric neck fan to stay comfortable.
Food & bathroom tips
- 1. Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues
- 2. Skip ice from street vendors and eat only hot, freshly cooked food to avoid foodborne illnesses
- 3. Carry baht coins for snacks, drinks, & public bathrooms (some public bathrooms charge a small fee)
- 4. Bring toilet paper or tissues in your bag (some places don’t provide it)
- 5. Malls and shopping center bathrooms are usually clean and hygienic