Planning to Do Backpacking in Thailand? Let’s Find Out the Budget First!

Backpacker-style travel is a favorite for many when they want to spend less. This is not only for domestic trips, but you can also go backpacking for international trips. For instance, if you plan to visit Thailand. 

What is Backpacking?
Backpacking is independent travel without using a travel agency, where you typically carry only essential items and keep expenses to a minimum. One key feature of backpacking is leaving the suitcase behind and opting for a backpack with a size that suits your needs.
Backpacking is possible for anyone, including those used to regular or even luxury travel. For example, you can swap your usual suitcase for a backpack. Since backpacking focuses on minimizing costs as much as possible, it is best to avoid booking rooms at luxurious hotels.

How Much is the Budget for Backpacking in Thailand?
What if you want to try backpacking abroad, such as in Thailand, which is known for having a cost of living similar to Indonesia? No problem! You can do it just like backpacking to any other place by following these four steps:
1. Use a backpack to pack your things and carry only essential items during the trip. 
2. Plan the trip on your own, without involving any travel agency, from booking your flight tickets to hotels and creating your travel itinerary.
3. Choose budget hotels that are low-priced but are comfortable and, most importantly, safe.
4. Opt for dining places offering affordable meals that are relatively inexpensive but are delicious and suit your palate.
Now, how much will it cost to backpack in Thailand? The total amount you need largely depends on how long you stay in Thailand and which attractions you visit. But, below is a cost breakdown to help you budget for a backpacking trip to Thailand.
 

Accommodation
Just like in Indonesia or other countries, Thailand offers a variety of accommodations at a wide range of prices. For those planning a backpacking trip, budget options such as hostels, guest houses, or dormitories are available. The cost per night ranges from Rp250,000 to Rp400,000.
 

Transportation
The first transportation cost you definitely need to prepare for is the flight to and from Thailand. If you book last-minute, a one-way ticket typically costs around Rp1,200,000 to Rp1,800,000. However, if you plan well in advance, you can save money by purchasing flight tickets during travel fairs, which often offer promotions.
Meanwhile, for transportation within Thailand, it will depend on how many and how far apart the places you visit in Thailand. If you want to save money, consider taking buses or trains while traveling around Thailand.
 

Food
While some restaurants are pricey, Thailand is filled with street food stalls, which offer delicious meals at affordable prices. For food expenses, you can expect to spend around ฿200 or approximately Rp91,000, or even higher if you want more food options.
How much will you need in total to backpack in Thailand? If you want to keep a really tight budget, assuming you choose accommodation at around Rp300,000 per night and spend about Rp100,000 per day on food, you should prepare at least Rp3,200,000 for accommodation, meals, and flights. 
The amount does not include entrance tickets to tourist attractions and transportation costs within Thailand. However, as mentioned earlier, if you manage to purchase flight tickets at promotional prices, your total expenses will go down. Also, these costs are subject to change, depending on the exchange rate between Baht and Rupiah.
Even if you are trying to save money by backpacking, there is one important thing you should pay attention to Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia. Purchasing this insurance policy means you will be covered during your trip, including if you get sick while traveling. So, make sure to protect your journey with this Travel Insurance.