How to Book Family Flights to Thailand

Book family flights to Thailand 2-3 months ahead for best prices, use flight comparison sites to check multiple airlines, and consider flying into Bangkok (BKK) then taking domestic connections to other destinations. Expect to pay $800-1,200 per person from the US, less from regional Asian hubs.

  1. Choose your arrival airport. Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi (BKK) has the most international flights and connections. Don Mueang (DMK) is cheaper but mainly budget carriers. Phuket (HKT) and Chiang Mai (CNX) work if that's your final destination, but fewer flight options.
  2. Check multiple booking sites. Start with Google Flights or Skyscanner to see all options. Then check airline direct websites - sometimes they have family discounts not shown on booking sites. For Asia routes, also check Expedia and Kayak.
  3. Look for family-friendly airlines. Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and ANA offer good family services and seat selection. EVA Air and Cathay Pacific are solid mid-range options. Avoid ultra-budget carriers like AirAsia for long-haul with kids - no free meals or entertainment.
  4. Book seats together. Pay for seat selection when booking, especially with children under 12. Airlines are required to seat families together but this often means middle seats scattered throughout the plane. Aisle + middle + window in a 3-seat row works well for families.
  5. Consider stopovers strategically. Direct flights from the US West Coast run 15-17 hours. One stop in Tokyo, Seoul, or Taipei breaks up the journey and often costs less. Singapore and Hong Kong work but add 2-3 hours. Avoid connections under 2 hours with kids.
  6. Book 60-90 days ahead. Sweet spot for international flights to Thailand is 8-12 weeks before departure. Earlier than 4 months and prices haven't dropped yet. Less than 6 weeks and you're paying premium rates.
Should I book all flights at once or separately?
Book as one ticket for better protection if flights are delayed. If one leg is cancelled, airline must rebook entire journey. Separate tickets mean you're on your own if connections don't work.
What's the best day to fly to Thailand?
Tuesday/Wednesday departures typically cost $100-200 less than Friday/Saturday/Sunday. Flight time doesn't change much - you'll cross the international date line regardless.
Do kids need their own frequent flyer accounts?
Yes, children 2+ need their own accounts to earn miles. Sign them up before booking so you can enter their numbers. Miles earned on family trips add up quickly.
Should I buy trip insurance for family flights?
Yes for international family travel. Kids get sick, plans change. Look for policies that cover pre-existing conditions and trip interruption, not just cancellation. Cost is typically 5-7% of trip price.