When traveling in Thailand, women should dress comfortably while respecting local culture, especially at temples and sacred sites—lightweight, breathable clothes are perfect for the warm weather, but it’s best to cover shoulders and knees with tops that have sleeves and skirts or pants below the knee when visiting temples, palaces, and government offices. Some places provide a sarong for tourists who are wearing shorts when they visit, but not everywhere, so you can take your own sarong in order to dress properly when visiting those places. Loose dresses, long pants, and shawls are great choices, and a scarf can be handy for quick cover-ups. In beach areas, swimwear is fine by the sea or pool, but not when walking around town. Comfortable shoes or sandals are ideal for exploring, and dressing modestly will help you feel confident, respectful, and warmly welcomed wherever you go.

For women traveling in Thailand, be prepared for a hot and humid tropical climate year-round, so lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential to stay cool and protected from the sun. The rainy season brings sudden showers, especially from May to October, so a compact umbrella or light rain jacket is useful. During the cooler season and in air-conditioned malls, buses, or planes, a light sweater can keep you comfortable. Staying hydrated, carrying a reusable water bottle, and planning outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon will help you enjoy Thailand’s climate safely and comfortably. 

GMT + 7 hours

It’s helpful to know that the country uses Indochina Time (ICT), which is UTC+7, with no daylight saving time, so you may need a day or two to adjust if you’re coming from far away. Try to get plenty of rest on arrival, stay hydrated, and plan light activities at first to ease jet lag. Many shops and attractions open around 9–10 a.m., while street markets and nightlife come alive in the evening, so organizing your day around local rhythms will help you make the most of your trip while staying energized and safe.

Business hours—Most offices are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, but government offices are open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Monday through Friday (except on public holidays).

General banking hours—open Monday thru Friday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Some banks are open in department stores, which are open every day.

Many stores are open 12 hours a day, seven days a week. Big department stores usually open from 10:30 am to 9:00 pm.  All Seven-Eleven stores or Express stores are open 24 hours a day.

The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB), with 100 satangs equal to 1 Baht, and cash is still widely used at markets, small shops, taxis, and street food stalls, so carrying small bills is very practical. Banknotes come in 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Baht, with coins in 1, 5, and 10 Baht, plus smaller satang coins. Foreign currencies can be easily exchanged at banks, hotels, and money exchange booths, and ATMs are widely available for international cards, though fees may apply. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, shopping malls, and larger restaurants. In addition, QR code payments and mobile banking are now widely used across Thailand, from small shops to big malls, making it convenient to pay with just a smartphone, though visitors should still keep some cash on hand. 

It’s helpful to know that electricity runs at 220 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, and the most common plug types are A, B, C, and O, so bringing a universal travel adapter is a smart idea. Many hotels provide outlets that accept multiple plug types, but not all do, and some older places may have limited sockets, so a small power strip can be useful. If your devices are not dual-voltage, you may need a voltage converter. Carry a portable power bank for long days out, and always unplug chargers when not in use to keep your electronics safe and ready throughout your trip. 

Respecting Thai culture will make your journey more enjoyable and meaningful, as Thai people are known for being extremely polite and friendly. When visiting temples or homes, dress modestly and remember to remove your shoes and hats before entering. Avoid touching anyone on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body, and be mindful not to sit or point your feet directly at people, which is seen as disrespectful. Using the traditional “wai” greeting, speaking softly, and keeping a calm, friendly manner are appreciated, since kindness and respect are highly valued in Thai society. Showing courtesy to monks, elders, and the royal family, along with a warm smile and patience, will help you feel welcome and connect more deeply with local people. 

Bargaining in Thailand can be a fun and friendly part of shopping, especially at street markets and small local shops, and it’s best done with a smile and polite attitude. Prices are fixed in department stores, malls, and supermarkets, but in markets and some tourist areas, bargaining is often expected, and vendors may start with higher prices for visitors. Begin by offering a lower price and negotiate gently until you reach a fair deal, keeping in mind that it should be enjoyable rather than confrontational. Your success often depends on your bargaining skills, patience, and friendliness, and staying calm and respectful will help create a pleasant experience for both you and the seller. 

Most locals in Thailand are friendly and welcoming, but women travelers should still be cautious when interacting with strangers and always trust their instincts. Be polite, yet avoid sharing personal details such as where you’re staying, and don’t accept drinks or food offered by people you don’t know—it’s safer to buy your own. If someone approaches you with offers for tours, special deals, or help that seems too good to be true, politely decline, as tourist scams can happen. When traveling alone, stay in public, well-lit areas and avoid remote places, and if anyone offers to be your guide, ask to see an official tour guide license. Keep your belongings secure, let someone know your plans, and remember that Thailand’s tourist police are available to assist if you need help, so you can explore with confidence and peace of mind.