How To Stay Safe When Travelling In Thailand

Thailand is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world, and yes that includes for solo female travellers. Media headlines in recent years have been plagued by horrendous stories of murder and deceit, yet it is important to highlight that these incidents are, thankfully, very rare. Here, we give some useful tips on how you can stay safe in the Land of Smiles.

Each year Thailand welcomes millions of tourists who, after a trip of a lifetime return home safely. Thai people are known for their friendly, warm-hearted nature and frequent stories of losing something with it being safely returned to the owner are pleasingly common. Locals will also keep an eye out and check on travellers well-being, they want to ensure you have a good time and take great pride in being fantastic hosts. In saying that, like every country, there are a few ill-intentioned individuals and it’s best to take every precaution to keep safe.

Cultural respect

The old adage “do as the locals do” really does speak volumes when it comes to your safety. It is always a good idea to do your research before you travel and read up about the culture, including the ‘do’s and dont’s’ lists. It is also advised to read about specific places you will visit on reputable travel methods, places to stay, eat etc. Acting and dressing respectfully are extremely important and could avoid landing yourself in a sticky situation. If you are unsure how to behave ask your local hosts, they’ll be delighted that you took the initiative.

Money and passport

There are a few basic tips to bear in mind with regards to keeping your valuables safe when travelling in Thailand (or anywhere else for that matter). Keep your passport on you in the safety of a money belt tucked inside your clothes or in your hotel safe. Always make a copy of your passport and email it to yourself as well as leave a hard copy with your family or friends back home. It is advised to not travel with wads of cash, rather take out smaller amounts and keep some stashed in another bag just in case you lose your wallet. A top tip is to register where you are travelling with your respective embassy and to keep up to date on any travel warnings they may have in place.

Common sense

What you would or would not do back home applies in Thailand too. For example, you would not drink and drive at home (at least we hope not) so why would you do it in Thailand? Just because some things might appear to be more relaxed or unregulated, in reality, it’s not always the case. Some common sense needs to be applied when it comes to walking around alone, hopping into a tuk-tuk or leaving your drink unattended. When in doubt it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Safe and happy travels!