The Travelling Wee

Planning a family holiday to Thailand? With bustling cities, golden temples and sun-soaked beaches, Thailand offers unforgettable experiences for both adults and little explorers. But before the adventure begins, make sure you’ve ticked off these essentials for a smooth and joyful journey.

✈️ 1. Book Flights Early

• Compare fares using Skyscanner or Google Flights
• Bangkok and Phuket offer the widest international routes
• Choose airlines with child-friendly services and flexible rebooking options

🏨 2. Find Family-Focused Accommodation

• Look for hotels with pools, children’s clubs and babysitting services
• Book well in advance during peak season (November to February)
• Areas like Krabi, Koh Samui and Chiang Mai offer a slower, family-friendly pace

🩺 3. Check Vaccinations & Pack a Health Kit

• Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Rabies
• Pack mosquito repellent, sun cream and child-safe medications
• Travel insurance is a must – double-check child coverage and activity exclusions

🛂 4. Fill in the Digital Arrival Card & Check Visa Rules

Thailand now offers visa-free entry for up to 60 days for passport holders from over 90 countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, Canada and much of Europe.

New Requirement: Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

• 📲 Must be completed online within 3 days before arrival
• ✅ Required for all non-Thai nationals – including children
• 🔁 Extensions for up to 30 days are possible once inside Thailand
• ✈️ Unlimited entries by air (restrictions apply for land or sea borders)

🖱️ Fill your TDAC online via the official portal 🌐 For visa eligibility by nationality, visit the Thai Embassy visa page or Tourism Authority of Thailand

💧 5. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

• Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth
• Reusable bottles with filters are great for day trips
• Avoid ice unless you’re certain it’s made with clean water

👕 6. Pack Wisely for Heat & Culture

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for tropical weather
• Modest attire for temple visits (shoulders and knees must be covered)
• Essentials: swimwear, sandals, sun hats and sunglasses

🧘 7. Teach Kids Thai Etiquette

• Learn the ‘wai’ greeting (palms together, slight bow)
• Don’t touch people’s heads or point your feet at others – both are considered disrespectful
• Show respect at temples – stay quiet, dress modestly and follow local signs

🐘 8. Choose Ethical Animal Experiences

• Avoid activities like elephant riding or staged animal shows
• Opt for welfare-focused sanctuaries and conservation centers
• Help children understand the importance of animal kindness and ethical tourism

🏖️ 9. Plan Child-Friendly Activities

• Explore sandy beaches in Phuket or play in waterfalls near Khao Yai
• Visit cultural shows, interactive museums and local night markets
• Look out for guided family tours tailored to different age groups

📱 10. Sort a SIM or eSIM

• Grab a Thai SIM card at the airport or use an eSIM for convenience
• I recommend Airalo – easy setup and great coverage across Thailand
• Make sure your phone is unlocked
• Download Google Maps, Bolt, Grab, and Translate apps

💸 11. Set a Sensible Budget

• Thailand’s great value – but extras add up quickly
• Most Thai ATMs charge 150–250 THB per withdrawal for foreign cards
• AEON Bank ATMs have the lowest fees (around 150 THB)
• Your home bank can also charge a foreign transaction fee
• Withdraw larger amounts to minimise per-transaction fees
• Use budgeting apps to track spending

💤 12. Prepare for Jet Lag

• Thailand is 6–7 hours ahead of the UK
• Gradually shift sleep schedules a few days before you fly
• Keep your first day easy-going to give everyone time to adjust

🧾 13. Finalise Your Travel Insurance

• Include cover for medical emergencies, delays and luggage issues
• Make sure children are included and double-check any adventure exclusions

🛍️ 14. Leave Room in Your Luggage

• Thailand’s markets are perfect for unique keepsakes – from handmade crafts to local snacks
• Pack light to make room for treasures
• Be cautious when buying electronics or luxury goods – ask about guarantees

🌟 Stay Tuned for More Thailand Adventures

We’re just getting started! This guide is only the beginning of our unforgettable family journey through Thailand — from sun-drenched beaches to bustling night markets and everything in between.

👉 Follow and subscribe to The Travelling Wee for honest reviews, helpful tips and plenty of stories as we explore the wonders of Thailand one family adventure at a time. We’d love to have you along with us.