Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–25 | $30–60 |
| Food | $5–15 | $15–30 |
| Transport | $5–15 | $15–40 |
| Activities | $5–20 | $20–60 |
| Entry Fees | $5–15 | $15–30 |
| Daily Total | $30–90 | $95–220 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Visa-free 60 days
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance at all times
- Entry fees for Koh Tao should be paid in THB — exchange money before arriving
Health & Safety
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential
- Bring a basic first aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic, painkillers, and any personal medication
- Sun protection is essential — apply SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours
Getting Around
- Scooter rental is cheap and popular but check insurance coverage
- Download offline maps before arriving — mobile data coverage can be patchy in remote areas
- Negotiate transport prices before departure or use metered taxis and ride-hailing apps
Connectivity
- Buy a local SIM card at the airport on arrival for affordable data — much cheaper than international roaming
- WiFi is available at most accommodation but signal quality varies. Download offline maps and guides before heading to remote areas
- Share your itinerary with someone at home and check in daily, especially for remote treks or island visits
Money
- Currency: THB (Baht). Cards accepted in tourist areas, but carry cash for local vendors
- ATMs are available in towns and cities. Visa and Mastercard are most widely accepted
- Tip 10-15% at restaurants. Guides and porters appreciate tips — budget $5-10 per day per person
Packing Tips
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest, water shoes, and a dry bag for electronics
- A reusable water bottle, headlamp, and portable phone charger are essential for any outdoor adventure
- Quick-dry clothing is ideal — you can wash and wear repeatedly, reducing pack weight
Cultural tips
Respect Local Customs
Remove shoes before entering temples or homes. Point with your whole hand, not a finger. The head is considered sacred — never touch anyone on the head.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all rubbish. Stay on marked trails and paths. Do not touch, feed, or disturb wildlife. The natural beauty of Koh Tao depends on every visitor treating it with respect. Take only photos, leave only footprints.
Photography Etiquette
Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in indigenous or traditional communities. Many religious sites have photography restrictions — check signage and respect these rules. Drone regulations vary — check local laws before flying.
Language & Communication
Learn a few words in Thai — greetings, please, thank you, and numbers go a long way. English is limited outside tourist areas but a translation app helps bridge gaps.
Support Local Communities
Choose locally-owned guesthouses, restaurants, and guides over international chains. Buy handicrafts directly from artisans. Your spending has the most impact when it goes directly into the local economy rather than through large tour operators.
Pace & Patience
Things move at a different pace here — embrace it. Delays, diversions, and unexpected encounters are part of the adventure. Patience and flexibility will transform your experience.
