Is it cheaper to book one-way flights separately?

Usually no for US-Thailand. Roundtrip tickets are typically $100-300 cheaper than two one-ways. Only book separate one-ways if you're planning complex multi-country travel.

Should I book directly with airlines or through booking sites?

Use booking sites to compare, then book directly with the airline. You'll get better customer service if flights get cancelled, and some airlines offer price matching.

How much do baggage fees add to budget airline tickets?

Asian budget carriers charge $50-80 each way for checked bags. Factor this in when comparing to full-service airlines that include baggage.

Are there seasonal price differences?

December-January costs 40-60% more due to high season and holidays. April-May and September-October are cheapest. Avoid Thai New Year in mid-April for best prices.

How to find cheap flights from the US to Thailand

Book flights to Bangkok (BKK) 6-8 weeks ahead, fly Tuesday-Thursday, and use connecting flights through Asian hubs like Tokyo or Seoul. Expect to pay $800-1200 roundtrip if you're flexible with dates and routes.

Search Bangkok as your main destination. Bangkok (BKK) has the most flight options and lowest prices. Even if you want to go to Phuket or Chiang Mai, fly to Bangkok first and take a domestic connection. It's almost always cheaper than flying direct to other Thai cities.
Book 6-8 weeks before departure. This is the sweet spot for US-Thailand routes. Earlier than 10 weeks and prices haven't dropped yet. Later than 4 weeks and you'll pay premium. Set up price alerts if you're more than 8 weeks out.
Target Tuesday-Thursday departures. Weekend departures cost $200-400 more. If you can leave on Tuesday and return on Wednesday or Thursday, you'll save significantly. Monday departures are middle-ground pricing.
Choose connecting flights over direct. EVA Air through Taipei, JAL through Tokyo, Korean Air through Seoul, or Qatar through Doha are often $300-500 cheaper than direct flights. One connection adds 3-5 hours but saves real money.
Use multiple search engines. Start with Google Flights for overview, then check Kayak, Momondo, and airline websites directly. Asian carriers like EVA and ANA often have deals that don't show up everywhere.
Consider nearby departure cities. If you're not near LAX, SFO, or SEA, check flights from Vancouver (YVR). Sometimes Canadian departures are cheaper even with the extra travel to get there.

Is it cheaper to book one-way flights separately?: Usually no for US-Thailand. Roundtrip tickets are typically $100-300 cheaper than two one-ways. Only book separate one-ways if you're planning complex multi-country travel.
Should I book directly with airlines or through booking sites?: Use booking sites to compare, then book directly with the airline. You'll get better customer service if flights get cancelled, and some airlines offer price matching.
How much do baggage fees add to budget airline tickets?: Asian budget carriers charge $50-80 each way for checked bags. Factor this in when comparing to full-service airlines that include baggage.
Are there seasonal price differences?: December-January costs 40-60% more due to high season and holidays. April-May and September-October are cheapest. Avoid Thai New Year in mid-April for best prices.