Thailand with kids
Everything you should know before you go!
Thailand with kids: Everything you should know before you go!
Considering a family trip in Thailand? 10 great reasons to travel to Thailand with kids and important things to know before you decide.
When we dreamt of an extended family getaway, Thailand stood out as the perfect choice. Having explored this captivating country as a young couple (yes, it’s where our love story began!), we cherished memories of its beauty.
Adapting for a family trip meant making a few adjustments, like steering clear of family scooter rides on Thailand’s winding roads. Yet, the excitement far outweighed any concerns, and the countless perks of exploring Thailand with kids turned it into a paradise for young families.
The Pros
1 
Budget-Friendly
Budget-FriendlyThailand is a pocket-friendly destination, allowing you to indulge in family-friendly activities and resorts that might be a stretch in Europe or North America.
Here you can check out Thai Baht exchange rates.
2 Tourist Haven
With millions of visitors each year, Thailand is well-versed in catering to families. The locals know their stuff, ensuring a warm welcome and preparation for the needs of little ones.
3 Diversity
From serene beaches to bustling Bangkok, Thailand offers a plethora of experiences. Exotic landscapes, vibrant markets, and children’s classes provide endless entertainment for the whole family.
4 Child-Friendly Culture
Thais adore little ones, evident in friendly smiles, free gifts from vendors, and VIP treatment on flights and ferries. Public places even boast changing tables and, occasionally, dedicated children’s toilets.
5 Effortless Transportation
Getting around Thailand is easy – with various transportation options including flights, ferries, buses, and trains. Taxis and vans cater to larger families for short trips, with easy online bookings and excellent punctuality.
Here you can find lots of useful information about transportation in Thailand
6 Kid-Centric Activities
Thailand offers a range of kid-friendly attractions, from water parks in Phuket to petting farms near Hua Hin. Massive playgrounds in Bangkok and spontaneous beach games with sea wheel vendors add to the excitement.
7 Solid Infrastructure
While relative to Southeast Asia, Thailand boasts advanced medical facilities, safe roads, stable electricity, and a reliable transportation system. Fewer existential challenges mean more relaxation for you.
8 Seaside Serenity
The beach is a natural playground for kids. Let them revel in days of seaside fun.
9 Cultural Intrigue
Temples, monks, and traditional culture provide an enriching experience.
10 Bonus Treats
Thailand serves up exotic fruits, refreshing coconuts, and cold smoothies at irresistible prices — available at every corner.
The Cons
1 Sanitation and Health
Southeast Asia brings its share of tropical diseases like dengue and malaria. Be cautious, especially with little ones prone to putting everything in their mouths. Skip sites with fresh water and pack essentials like poldine and antibiotic ointment for minor wounds.
2 Vaccinations
On a related note—travel experts recommend getting vaccinated against diseases like hepatitis A, Japanese meningitis, and tetanus before arriving in Thailand. If you or your little ones are hesitant about vaccines, you might want to wait a bit.
3 Mosquitos
Thailand has a lot of them. They’re generally annoying and, in this case, can also carry diseases.
The solution: lots of mosquito repellent!
4 Pollution Alert
Food, water, and air—Thailand has its share of challenges! Skip the tap water and stick to bottled or filtered options (we used a filter jug). Wash fruits well with soap and water (we packed natural soap and a brush), and try to cook veggies or choose organic ones.
Click here for more tips on eating healthy in Thailand.
Regarding air pollution, Stay updated on air pollution, especially in northern Thailand, after the harvest season. Try to time your visit to the stunning northern regions (Chiang Mai area) for when pollution levels are lower, or if that’s not possible, consider visiting the south instead.
5 Water
Be mindful of water scarcity, especially during the dry season. Many homes, especially on islands, rely on personal water tanks. Check with your accommodation host about water availability and any usage quotas. Conserve water accordingly to ensure a smooth stay.
6 Road Safety
Thailand faces a relatively high level of road accidents. Stay vigilant, and prioritize safety measures, such as using safer vehicles like cars instead of two-wheelers. When sidewalks are absent, ensure children stay close.
Here you can find detailed safety information for cars and transport options in Thailand.
7 Weather issues
Heat and humidity dominate the dry season, while heavy rains and monsoons can disrupt plans in the wet season. Build your children’s resilience to weather changes, stay flexible with travel plans, adapt to the conditions and stay updated on forecasts. If extreme storms or floods are predicted, consider postponing the trip for a safer time.
8 Jellyfish Alert
Beyond the typical stinging jellyfish, be aware of the Box Jellyfish, a more dangerous species found mainly in southern Thailand. Stay informed about potential jellyfish presence through beach signs and take warnings seriously. With jellyfish around, focus on beach games and avoid diving, especially with children.
9 Crime Caution
Thailand boasts relatively low crime rates compared to its neighbours. However, be cautious of fraud and corruption. Exercise extra vigilance when renting jet skis, ensuring you go to reputable providers. When renting a car, ensure comprehensive insurance coverage to avoid potential complications in case of accidents. Consider using taxis if driving isn’t your comfort zone.
10 Thailand’s size
Thailand is a very big country that includes diverse islands and regions. Opt for one or two areas per visit to avoid travel exhaustion for both kids and your wallet.
Here you can find our Our top recommended areas for staying in Thailand with kids.
In Conclusion:
Thailand with kids: now you know, time to go!
Thailand beckons as a family-friendly paradise, offering a blend of affordability, cultural richness, and diverse landscapes. While challenges like water scarcity, road safety, and unpredictable weather exist, informed planning and cautious measures can ensure a safe and memorable family adventure.
Safe travels, and may your family’s Thailand adventure with kids be filled with joy and discovery!
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