Is it cheaper to fly or take the bus?

Buses and trains are significantly cheaper. A bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is roughly $15, whereas a flight can range from $40 to $100 depending on how early you book.

Can I use an ATM on a budget?

Yes, but Thai ATMs charge a flat fee of 220 THB (~$6) per withdrawal. Withdraw the maximum amount allowed to minimize the impact of this fee.

Thailand on a Shoestring Budget

You can comfortably explore Thailand for $35 to $45 per day by sticking to street food, traveling via overnight trains or public buses, and choosing local guesthouses over international hotel chains. Avoid the islands during peak season and utilize the robust network of shared minivans to keep transport costs under $10 per trip.

Eat at street stalls and local markets. Avoid 'tourist' restaurants. Look for stalls with high local turnover. A plate of Pad Thai or Khao Soi should cost between 40 and 60 THB ($1.20 - $1.80).
Use public transit for long hauls. Book second-class sleeper trains for inter-city travel. It saves you the cost of a night's accommodation. Use the '12Go Asia' app to check prices but book at the station to avoid service fees.
Ditch the domestic flights. Domestic flights in Thailand are fast but blow a shoestring budget. Use the government-run bus network (BKS) which offers safe, air-conditioned routes between all major hubs for a fraction of the cost.
Drink local, not imported. Alcohol is heavily taxed in Thailand. Stick to local beers like Chang or Leo and avoid cocktails or imported wines to save roughly $10 per night.

Is it cheaper to fly or take the bus?: Buses and trains are significantly cheaper. A bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is roughly $15, whereas a flight can range from $40 to $100 depending on how early you book.
Can I use an ATM on a budget?: Yes, but Thai ATMs charge a flat fee of 220 THB (~$6) per withdrawal. Withdraw the maximum amount allowed to minimize the impact of this fee.