Traveling Thailand as a Couple on $50 a Day

To stretch $50 a day for two, prioritize street food, stick to public transport like trains and buses, and stay in local guesthouses rather than international hotels. You will need to track expenses daily and avoid excessive alcohol or guided tours to keep costs within this limit.

  1. Book budget accommodation. Look for guesthouses priced between $15 and $20 per night. Use booking apps to find spots with high ratings for cleanliness, but avoid the 'resort' style listings.
  2. Eat street food exclusively. Stick to night markets and food courts. A meal of pad thai or khao soi should cost no more than $2 per person. Drink bottled water bought from 7-Eleven, not hotel mini-bars.
  3. Use public ground transport. Take the overnight train for long distances; it doubles as a bed, saving you a night's accommodation cost. In cities, use the BTS/MRT or public songthaews rather than private Grab cars or tuk-tuks.
  4. Limit alcohol and nightlife. Alcohol is the fastest way to blow your budget. One beer at a bar costs as much as a full meal at a street stall. Stick to fruit shakes or tea.
Is $50 per day enough for two people?
Yes, if you prioritize street food, avoid private taxis, and stay in basic guesthouses with fans instead of AC.
How do I get around cheap?
Use overnight trains and long-distance buses. Avoid domestic flights, as the cost of getting to and from the airport often exceeds the bus fare.