How to plan the perfect budget for 10 days in Thailand trip

Thailand, with its shimmering golden temples, crystal-clear beaches, unique culture and rich cuisine, is a dream destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. The country’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in the diverse experiences it offers, from bustling cities to peaceful countryside. 

If you are planning a 10-day trip, setting a reasonable budget is essential to fully enjoy your travel without worrying about expenses. This article will help you create a detailed budget for 10 days in Thailand trip, suitable for various travel styles, from mid-range to luxury options. 

Let Hanoi Voyages help you design an unforgettable Thailand journey that fits your budget perfectly.

Flight costs to Thailand: How much should you budget?

When planning your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip, one of the biggest initial expenses to consider is the flight. While Thailand might seem far away, airfare can actually be quite affordable, especially if you book early and compare options. Factors like your departure country, airline choice, travel season and booking time significantly impact the price.

Flights from the UK

Most flights depart from London Heathrow (LHR), operated by airlines such as Thai Airways, British Airways, Qatar Airways and Emirates.

• Average round-trip cost: $500 – $700, depending on the season and booking window.

Flights from Canada

Canadian travelers often fly with Air Canada or Thai Airways.

• Average cost: $550 – $700, with higher prices during school breaks and holidays.

Flights from the US

Major US cities like Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK) and San Francisco (SFO) offer various connections via United, Delta and Thai Airways.

• Estimated cost: $600 – $900, especially when booking in advance or selecting layovers.

Flights from Australia

Popular airlines include Qantas, Thai Airways and Emirates.

• Ticket range: $400 – $600, with lower prices during the off-peak season.

👉 Tip: Booking a few months in advance helps reduce your total 10 days in Thailand cost, freeing up budget for experiences, food and accommodation.

Getting around Thailand: Transportation costs and options

Transportation within Thailand is both diverse and budget-friendly. Whether you're hopping between cities or navigating busy Bangkok, understanding the average costs will help you plan a smart budget for 10 days in Thailand trip.

Tuk-tuks

These iconic three-wheelers are fun for short trips, but you’ll need to bargain.

• Typical fare: $3 – $8 depending on the distance and location.

👉 Tip: Always agree on the price before the ride to avoid overpaying.

Taxis and ride-hailing (Grab, Bolt)

Taxis are widely available in big cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

• Starting fare: ~$1 for the first km, then ~$0.30/km.

• Grab/Bolt: Around 20–30% higher than metered taxis but reliable and app-based.

Public transport (Metro, Buses, Songthaews)

• BTS Skytrain / MRT in Bangkok: $0.50 – $2 per ride.

• Public buses: The cheapest option at $0.30 – $1.

• Songthaews: Shared pick-up trucks in cities like Chiang Mai, costing $0.50 – $2 per ride.

Trains

Thailand’s rail system is an economical way to travel across the country.

• 3rd class (no A/C): $8 – $11

• 2nd class (A/C seats): $15 – $22

• 1st class sleeper cabins: $35 – $45 – ideal for night travel with privacy.

Boats and ferries (for island trips)

Traveling to the islands usually involves a ferry or speedboat.

• Phuket → Koh Phi Phi: $12 – $18

• Koh Samui → Koh Phangan: $5 – $12

• Bangkok → Koh Tao (train + ferry): $25 – $35

Intercity buses and minivans

Buses are a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.

• Bangkok → Chiang Mai: $18 – $30 (10–12 hours)

• Bangkok → Phuket: $25 – $35 (12–14 hours)

• Minivans (e.g., Bangkok → Ayutthaya): $5 – $17

Accommodation options: Where to stay based on your budget

Accommodation plays a major role in shaping your experience and controlling your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip. Fortunately, Thailand offers a wide range of lodging options, whether you're aiming for practical comfort or elevated luxury.

• For mid-range travelers, expect to spend around $40–70 USD per night on quality 3- to 4-star hotels, boutique guesthouses, or stylish homestays. These places often include amenities like air-conditioning, private bathrooms and breakfast. 

Ao Nang Aonang Princeville Villa Resort & Spa	Phuket Baan Krating Phuket Resort	Bangkok Le D'Tel Bangkok

• For those seeking a luxury experience, nightly rates range from $150 to over $400 USD. You can stay in lavish beachfront resorts, five-star hotels with rooftop pools, or private villas complete with butler service and panoramic views. 

Bangkok Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok	Chiang Rai The Riverie by Katathani	Chiang Mai  Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai

When calculating your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip, it’s helpful to book accommodations in advance to secure better rates, especially during high season. Whether you choose chic city hotels or serene resort getaways, Thailand offers a wealth of options to suit your travel style and budget.

For more options, you can read: 

Top 10 luxury hotels in Thailand for an unforgettable stay

Thailand activity costs: Plan your travel budget wisely

When calculating your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip, don't forget to include sightseeing and activity costs. Thailand offers a wide range of experiences, many of which are surprisingly affordable. Here's a breakdown by price level:

Free or low-cost activities (~$3 per person)

Perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for local culture and nature.

• Visiting temples (many are free or have symbolic fees)

• Exploring local street markets

• Hiking nature trails and viewpoints

• Relaxing on public beaches

Standard attractions ($5–$22 per person)

Great value for iconic cultural experiences and educational fun.

• Entrance fees to Wat Pho, Doi Suthep, or other famous temples

• Cultural museums and historical sites

• Traditional dance shows or cabaret performances

• Thai cooking classes

• National park fees (e.g., Doi Inthanon, Erawan Falls)

Adventure & guided tours ($27–$90 per person)

Ideal for outdoor lovers or group travelers wanting more active exploration.

• Snorkeling and island-hopping tours (Koh Phi Phi, Similan Islands)

• Jungle trekking in Chiang Mai or Pai

• Sea kayaking or bamboo rafting

• Guided bike or food tours in Bangkok or Chiang Mai

Premium experiences ($85+ per person)

Perfect for those with a more flexible budget who want personalized or luxury moments.

• Scuba diving certification courses

• Ethical elephant encounters in sanctuaries

• Private yacht or long-tail boat cruises

• Rooftop fine dining with panoramic views (Bangkok, Phuket)

Including a variety of these activities in your 10 days in Thailand trip will add depth and excitement to your journey, while keeping your expenses aligned with your budget and travel style.

Dining costs in Thailand: Options for every taste and budget

Food is a highlight of any trip to Thailand—and depending on your style, meals can be both affordable and luxurious. Below is a detailed look at what to expect when dining at mid-range, luxury and Michelin-starred restaurants during your 10 days in Thailand trip.

Mid-range restaurants ($8–$20 per person)

Mid-range dining is perfect for travelers who want quality food in a comfortable setting without overspending. These restaurants often feature casual but well-designed interiors and offer an excellent introduction to both authentic Thai cuisine and Asian fusion dishes.

A typical meal in this category may include:

• A flavorful main course (e.g., green curry, pad Thai with prawns)

• A refreshing drink or cocktail

• Occasionally, an appetizer or dessert included in set menus

These restaurants are widely available in urban centers like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket, often located near tourist areas, shopping streets, or boutique hotels. They’re a great balance between value and experience—ideal for daily lunches or relaxed dinners while sticking to your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip.

Luxury restaurants ($30–$80 per person)

For travelers looking to elevate their dining experience, luxury restaurants across Thailand provide sophisticated ambiance, exceptional service and creative, beautifully plated cuisine.

Typically found in:

• High-end hotels

• Sky bars and rooftop restaurants with panoramic views

• Stylish standalone venues with curated menus

These meals often include:

• Two to three courses (starter, main, dessert)

• Wine pairings or signature cocktails

• Attentive service and elegant presentation

Luxury dining is especially popular in places like Bangkok’s riverside, Phuket’s beach resorts, or Chiang Mai’s romantic old town. It’s ideal for celebrations, date nights, or just one or two “treat-yourself” evenings on your 10-day trip.

You can read: Top 9 luxury restaurants in Thailand you can't miss

Michelin-starred dining ($90–$250+ per person)

If you're a food enthusiast or simply want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Michelin-starred restaurants in Thailand offer world-class meals at surprisingly accessible prices (compared to Western fine dining).

Key highlights:

• Multi-course tasting menus crafted by award-winning chefs

• A blend of traditional Thai flavors and global haute cuisine

• Impeccable service, artistic plating and thoughtful wine pairings

• Intimate dining spaces, often with limited seating

For more options, you can read: Top 9 restaurants Michelin Thailand in 2025

Estimated travel costs for Thailand in 10 days

When planning your Thailand in 10 days itinerary, understanding the overall cost is key to building a trip that matches your expectations and budget. Thailand is known for being travel-friendly, offering options for both budget-conscious and luxury-seeking travelers.

• For a mid-range trip, you can expect to spend around $180–200 USD per day. This includes accommodation at 3- to 4-star hotels, local transportation (taxis, domestic flights, or private transfers), meals at nice local restaurants and entrance fees to attractions or guided tours. That adds up to approximately $1,800–2,000 USD for the entire 10-day journey.

• If you prefer a luxury travel experience, the daily budget typically ranges from $400–500 USD or more. This covers stays at 5-star resorts, private drivers, fine dining, exclusive spa treatments and premium experiences like private boat trips or scenic flights. A luxury Thailand in 10 days trip can total around $4,000–5,000 USD or higher.

Having a clear estimate helps you choose experiences that offer the best value while making room for the occasional splurge. Whether you're traveling comfortably or in style, Thailand offers incredible value at every price point.

To make the most of your Thailand in 10 days trip, let Hanoi Voyages craft a seamless and unforgettable journey for you. With our carefully curated tours, you can explore the best of Thailand and its surroundings.

Thailand tour 14 days From Bangkok to Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Koh Yao Yai: culture, nature, authentic encounters and relaxation on the beaches.	Thailand tour 18 days Discovering the magic of the North with its landscapes, the ethnic groups of Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle.	Thailand tour 21 days 21 Day Thailand Panorama offering a first encounter with the Kingdom of Siam, a journey rich in history and culture

Tips to maximize your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip

Planning your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means spending wisely to enjoy the best experiences at the right price. Here are some practical tips to make the most of your 10 days in Thailand trip:

• Choose a trustworthy travel company: To stay within your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip, consider booking with a trusted travel company. A reliable operator like Hanoi Voyages helps you avoid hidden costs and ensures a smooth, well-organized journey tailored to your needs.

• Book accommodation in advance: Booking early, especially during peak seasons, can save you money and guarantee better options. Look for mid-range hotels with free breakfast and central locations to reduce transport costs.

• Use local transportation: Public transport like BTS/MRT in Bangkok, songthaews in Chiang Mai and ferries in the islands are budget-friendly and give you a more local experience. Avoid overpaying for taxis by using apps like Grab.

• Buy a local SIM card with data: Staying connected helps with navigation, finding nearby food options and using transport apps—all of which can help you save time and money during your 10 days in Thailand trip.

• Have a daily spending limit: Break your total budget for 10 days in Thailand trip into a daily target. This keeps you financially aware and helps you make flexible decisions if you want to splurge occasionally.

With so much to see, taste and experience, Thailand truly delivers incredible value. By planning your budget for 10 days in Thailand trip wisely, you can enjoy a well-rounded journey that matches your travel style. If you’re looking for a seamless travel experience that stays within your budget while still offering comfort and cultural depth, Hanoi Voyages is here to help. Our local expertise and tailored service ensure every detail is handled with care.

👉 Contact Hanoi Voyages today and start planning your worry-free Thailand adventure!