Thailand Travel Guide 2026: Safety, New Entry Rules & Tech

Introduction: Is Thailand Safe for Western Tourists in late 2025?

As we approach 2026, geopolitical headlines regarding the Thai-Cambodia maritime disputes (MOU 2001) have sparked concern. For travelers flying in from London, New York, or Sydney, the pressing question is, “Is it safe to book my holiday now?”

The short answer is yes. Thailand remains the ultimate getaway. However, the “land of spontaneity” has introduced new regulations. This guide synthesizes advice from Western embassies and local reality to ensure your trip is smooth and secure.

Safety Briefing: The Border Conflict & Your Security

While tensions exist, they are highly localized. It is important to separate political friction from the tourist experience.

Zones to Avoid

The friction is concentrated along specific land border crossings in Surin and Si Sa Ket provinces. If you were planning an overland border run to Cambodia, we strongly advise changing your plans to fly instead for 2026. Avoid the disputed areas near Preah Vihear Temple.

Reality in Tourist Hubs

In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. The conflict has zero impact on resorts or nightlife.

• Real Risks for Westerners: Statistically, your biggest risk isn’t geopolitical—it’s road safety. If you plan to rent a scooter on the islands, ensure you have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and strictly wear a helmet. Police crackdowns on tourists without licenses are frequent in 2025.

2026 Entry Rules: Visa Exemptions & The ETA

For passport holders from the USA, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia, entry is easy, but there are new digital hoops to jump through.

• 60-Day Visa Exemption: The standard visa-free stay has been extended to 60 days for most Western nations, perfect for extended winter breaks.
• The Mandatory ETA: Thailand has rolled out the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Even for visa-free entry, you must register online before your flight. Airlines may deny boarding without it.
• Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration officers are increasingly strict about seeing a booked return flight to prevent illegal overstays. Have your itinerary ready on your phone.

Internet & Connectivity: Skip the Roaming Charges

For Western travelers, staying connected is about safety and navigation. Relying on hotel Wi-Fi is no longer sufficient.

The Problem with Roaming

Carriers like Verizon, AT&T, or O2 charge exorbitant daily fees for international roaming. Alternatively, buying a physical SIM card at Suvarnabhumi Airport involves long queues and handing over your passport for photocopying—a hassle you don’t need after a 12-hour flight.

The Modern Solution: eSIM

Tech-savvy travelers are switching to eSIM technology. Providers like Volarsky eSIM have become a top choice, especially for travelers looking to buy Thailand eSIM plans before they even pack their bags.

By setting up your Volarsky eSIM before you leave home, you bypass the airport kiosks entirely. It uses local premium networks (like AIS), ensuring you have 5G speed whether you are in a Bangkok rooftop bar or a remote island bungalow. For Western tourists used to efficiency, this seamless “land and connect” experience is the new standard.

Transportation: Getting Around Without Getting Scammed

• Ride-Hailing Apps: Western tourists are prime targets for taxi overcharging. Download Grab and Bolt before you arrive. Link your credit card to the app so you don’t have to fumble for cash. Bolt tends to be cheaper for short hops, while Grab is more reliable for scheduled airport transfers.
• The BTS & MRT: In Bangkok, the Skytrain (BTS) and Metro (MRT) are world-class. You can now use your contactless Visa/Mastercard directly on the MRT Blue and Purple lines, just like the London Underground or NYC Subway.

Money Matters: Cards, Cash, and Fees

Forget about Alipay or WeChat Pay—those are for Chinese tourists. Here is how Westerners should pay in 2026.

• Cash is Still King: You cannot survive on cards alone. Street food, tuk-tuks, and local markets only take Thai baht.
• The ATM Fee Trap: Thai ATMs charge a flat fee of approx. 220 THB ($6-$7 USD) per withdrawal for foreign cards. Tip: Withdraw the maximum amount allowed (usually 20k-30k THB) at once to minimize hits from this fee.
• Use Travel Cards: Do not use your primary bank debit card for daily spending due to foreign transaction fees. Use a Wise, Revolut, or Monzo card. These are widely accepted at 7-Elevens (for purchases over 200 THB), malls, and restaurants, offering the best mid-market exchange rates.