Thailand on a budget

Cheapest months to go

Peak is November, December, January, February. The weeks either side of that window usually carry most of the weather with much less of the price.

Getting around for less

Realistic options in Thailand:

• Domestic flights link Bangkok with the north and the southern islands quickly
• Trains and long-distance buses cover the country affordably, including overnight services
• Urban rail and river boats make Bangkok manageable without a car
• Ferries and speedboats connect the Andaman and Gulf island groups

Where to base yourself

Fewer bases means fewer paid transfers. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket cover a lot between them.