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Thailand, with golden temples, vibrant markets and idyllic beaches, has long been a favourite for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Who says luxury has to come with a hefty price tag? Whether you’re eyeing an all-inclusive resort or a jam-packed holiday package, there are smart ways to enjoy Thailand without breaking the baht. Here’s how to travel luxe for less.
Opt for an all-inclusive Thailand resort
While the upfront cost may be higher, an all-inclusive stay offers exceptional value once you’re at your resort. With meals, drinks and daily indulgences covered before you even arrive, take the hassle out of your holiday and slip into relaxation mode without worrying about the bill.
The best all-inclusive Thailand resorts offer seamless experiences everywhere you turn; free-flow cocktails, round-the-clock dining and thoughtful extras – like beachside yoga or club lounge access – mean you can say yes to all of life’s little luxuries without reaching for your wallet.
Book your travel outside peak season
Off-peak travel is a smart move for the savvy traveller. Travelling during Thailand’s shoulder season (typically from April to June and then again from September to October) means generous savings on flights, accommodation and tourist attractions.
Don’t let the wet season deter you. Rain showers are usually brief and refreshing, with plenty of sunshine in between. The seas stay warm; the beaches are less busy and popular attractions are crowd-free – all while you enjoy tropical temperatures hovering around 29°C, without having to fight for the prime spots on golden beaches.
Find a Thailand holiday package with extra inclusions
The smartest way to stretch your budget is by choosing a stay that comes with generous extras. Think return airport transfers, daily breakfast, spa treatments and sunset cocktails, all bundled into one holiday package. Thailand is known for going above and beyond, and the best escapes follow suit.
Even perks like late checkout or complimentary kids’ stays can make a big difference, especially for families. The more that’s included upfront, the less you’ll spend once you arrive – and the more you can focus on unwinding and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Eat like a king at Thailand’s street markets
From bustling night markets in Bangkok to laidback weekend stalls in Chiang Mai, street markets are a must for anyone wanting to experience Thailand. Fresh and tasty, Thailand’s street food scene is a budget traveller’s dream – rich in flavour, light on cost. For just a few baht you can feast on smoky grilled meats, mango sticky rice, steaming bowls of khao soi and generous plates of prawn-loaded pad thai – often for less than the price of a coffee back home.
Carparks and laneways turn into open-air kitchens filled with irresistible aromas and sizzling grills. Free to enter and found in most towns and cities, it’s convenient gourmet eating at street prices, perfect for those who want to dine well without blowing the budget. Train Night Market Srinagarindra is the place to be for trying som tum, Thai desserts and grilled meats, prawns and fish. For the best flowers, head to Pak Khlong Talat, and indulge in delicious street food at Naka Market.
Book your Thailand flights in advance to save more
Securing the best fare often comes down to one thing: planning. Booking your flights at least nine months in advance can help you lock in the best prices – especially if you’re travelling during peak holiday periods. Flexibility also pays off: midweek departures tend to be cheaper, while school holidays and long weekends can push fares up significantly. When it comes to travel, booking early means you’ll also have access to a wider range of options – whether that’s the best hotel rooms, ideal flight times or popular tours that may sell out.
Consider stopovers in major hubs like Singapore or Kuala Lumpur to score better rates, and don’t forget to factor in travel insurance. It may seem like an added cost, but in the event of cancellations, lost luggage or delays, it can save you serious money (and stress). If you’re flying budget, double-check baggage limits to avoid surprise fees.
Leverage loyalty programs and points
Make the most of travel loyalty programs to stretch your budget further and get in control of your travel. Members of Luxury Escapes’ new loyalty program Société earn points every time they book hotels, flights, tours and more, which can be used towards future escapes, turning today’s holiday into tomorrow’s savings. Joining Société could be a game-changer for your travel – it’s all rewards, and no restrictions.
For VIP perks, consider investing in LuxPlus+, Luxury Escapes’ premium travel club. With exclusive member-only rates, bonus inclusions like hotel credit and complimentary upgrades, early access to new deals and hidden offers not available to the public, LuxPlus+ can easily pay for itself in a single trip.
You can also use airline miles or credit card points to reduce flight costs or score upgrades on your Thailand holiday package or resort stay.
