Been to Thailand many times: Bring PERFECT large bill cash for exchange, if you drive a scooter you need to have a motorcycle endorsement on your int'l DL. Take pre rent photos of scooter, jet ski, or car rental. Don't give rental your passport. Cash deposit. Use copy or phone photo of passport (portrait and stamp). Put everything (money, cards, phone, laptop) in safe. Bring a spare phone. Also, bring a "wireless" charger. If your phone gets wet you won't be able to plug n charge but you will be able to charge with a wireless. use bolt app or require taxi to turn on meter. Don't argue or be disrespectful. pay your bar bill. Don't get too drunk. don't drink or brush teeth with tap water you will get sick. ICE is usually OK with drinks. Use mosquito spray especially if you are out of the cities....and have a great time.
I’ve been visiting every year since 1998 and can absolutely agree with all these recommendations. I would add to wash your hands and pay attention to the hygiene of the street food vendors you use. Try to get the food HOT.
A motorcycle license endorsement on your international driver's license is required if you want to ride a motorcycle. You must have a motorcycle license in your country of origin to get that endorsement. They only last 12 months from the issue date.
I'm new to traveling abroad. First time going to Thailand from the United States. I'll be there in the middle of November through the middle of February for 3 months with my Thai girl that I've met 8 months ago. That's where I plan on retiring full-time. Just turned 60 and my Thai girl is a nurse at 50. This is great information. Very helpful. Thank you. ✌️
Great info, thanks. When withdrawing cash from an ATM, get odd instead of round number amounts. This will (hopefully) give you some smaller bills as well as the large ones.
GREAT POINTS! 😎As you said, be sure you have a translation app installed on your phone.. MOST importantly have Thai language definition pre-downloaded. Like the Google translation app, you can download the small language translation database locally on your phone. This is GOLD until you get a local Thailand SIM card, or if you have no cell connectivity, translation apps won’t work without connectivity on your phone. You’ll need it most when you’re traveling out in the sticks and have no cell connection but desperately need to communicate to locals.
u heard of this unknown store called 7 eleven..Very good razors 2 pack cost 20 baht and small shaving cream cost ´50baht ..i prefer a real knife shave for 80 baht...anyway
Cash: $100 bills in perfect condition for best exchange rates. Super Rich and T.T. Exchange best and you can find such in lowest level at BKK Airport, near rail connection. Medical kit: pharmacies every 10 yards it seems. ATMs: Expensive. Bring about $1,000 in $100s to exchange to reduce cost. Always remove max cash to cut number of uses. Bolt best in Pattaya, but during holidays and high season weekends be grateful for any ride. Bring your memories of why you got out of your home country and make the best of your time here.
@@josh.onthemove FYI: In every exchange booth hangs a sign showing exchange rates for $100s, $50s, and then smaller bills. They will reject any bills with markings or even slight tears. Same at banks.
I always carry two cards and on one account I keep 90% of my money and slowly transfer it over to the card that I use daily. If it gets compromised they don't get much from me. And this just recently happened to me and everything worked out fine.
First things I do is to make a appointment at the hospital I use in BKK to get refills on my meds second things is to purchase a new phone and download all my apps and contact from my U.S phone to the new one in cast I loss my phone and then buy the thai Sim card to make locate call also I Contact my U.S phone company and purchase an International phone plan ThIrd thing I do is make at least 20 copy of my US passport with my Driver license on the same copy to avoid carrying around my passport all the time last thing and very important is to give my family all my credit and debit card information so if I loss one or one is stolen they can cancel it immediately lastly I leave them additional Cash to wire me if I run Into a money problems great video again to first time International traveler's or even world traveler's like yourself also yes please purchase travel insurance
A couple of top tips from me, tell your bank your going abroad, what can happen is if your away and the bank sees unusual activity on your card they will block it! The same with your phone, also whilst your in Thailand buy a cheap cheap phone, 1 if you loose your main phone you can use the back up phone as a translator for help, you can have Google maps, translation also back up any e tickets and a copy of you pasport, and flight details, keep that phone away from you keep it in you suit case or something phone in Thailand are very cheap, for what it costs ifset against the hassle of no connection, and loosing all of your details its a game changer
Concerning SIM card booths in Thailand do not get it before you leave the customs immigration restricted area. Sometimes the very same company is franchise to somebody else and they say you have to go to where you bought your SIM card and you cannot go back into the immigration area. This happened to me at the Phuket airport. And the very same company is just outside the immigration exit door.
I feel your pain. I find it faff swapping sims just for the OTP but if your phone can’t hold two sims active at the same time that’s the best option for sure. Thanks for the comment!
A medical kit is a must have in that hot, humid, bacteria rich environment of SE Asia. Translation apps are great; especially if you have one that you can take a picture of a menu, for example, and then have it translated. ESimms just confuse most people when they are traveling I have found. I don't use it even though my phone is capable. I bring my US phone that has international service and then my other phone to put a SIMM into for local travel. Having a local number is a good idea so that one can communicate locally with hotels, car hire, tourist crud....
Thanks for the comment. With my phone it lets me keep my UK sim as an eSIM without it being in my phone and then have an actual Thai sim in my phone so I don’t need to swap, super handy!
I have been to Thailand countless times, and the thing that stands out is the number of tourists injured on motorcycles. Thai roads are dangerous, congested, and road rules are suggestions only, hire a motor cycle, and jeopardise your holiday. I agree with everything he has said
Good tips there, what i will add about money is this idea of exchanging cash or using bank cards. Get a top up travel card Revolut/Wise etc. You get perfect interbank rates and you can exchange your money from one currency to THB in app, if your savy youll keep checking and add a notification so you can exchange when Baht goes uo against the pound. Then you have Baht in your account, then, you can walk into a bank in Bangkok (at the counter) and withdraw money without ATM charges. No street exchange will give you rates as good as interbank and bank cards tend to charge fees (although i know a few dont).
Looks like a " Cyanea barkeri" jellyfish light to dark brown with spots. You mentioned travel insurance but not all insurance will cover all, ie participating in sports. If you are training a gym, they should have a plaster!
"Wun ov dem liss" ( you need a translator!) 555 Some basic knowledge of useful Thai sentences can be very helpful. 2 phones are essential, both with bank apps and passwords. A good padlock and cable to use on a hired motorcycle. Not cheapies. Useful to secure luggage as well. No surprises for me. I've visited 23 times. Thanks heaps. Great advice for newbies!
With regard to your bankcard comments, remember to inform your bank that you're travelling abroad, I had problems years ago with my Nationwide card, you didn't have to tell them you were travelling abroad but after I used my card once they locked it, I had to spend half an hour convincing them that it was me that had used my card.
Very similar to the sitch I’ve had. Supposedly you don’t need to tell my bank either but I’ve been locked out twice. It’s both a good and bad thing, good they notice odd behaviour and lock the card, annoying you can’t use it!
One thing your viewers need to be careful of on item 10 is the capacity of the power pack. When you are departing Bangkok and you have your power pack in your carry on they will check the capacity of the unit. If it is higher than what they allow they will take it off you. It happened to me a few years ago.
Question does it make sense to pack light and purchase some clothing footwear in Thailand rather than packing it? Thanks for the very informative video.
Could do either, there is everything you need here and you might then know more of what you’ll want with you rather than overpacking the wrong things 👍🏻
@@JereKleinbach that’s a great idea. I do it every year. In fact, I bring old clothes and unwanted clothes. I wear them until I replace them there. I get them laundered and leave them in the hotel when I check out or take them to a temple. The only area of caution with this is shoes. If you have large feet, finding new shoes can be a challenge for big feet.
Bringing a eain coat when you get one for cents in any 7 feels a bit unnecessary. Bring jai yen yen and insurance 😂 i can recommend opening s wise account and ordering their visa debit card. I use it to pay for so many things including phone bill, taxis, domestic flights, hotels. And you can use it as a subway ticket in Bangkok. Btw pack all your medication in carry on. I have a sticker on it which says prescription medicine inside. Nobody ever cared if I had a little more than 7kg. I can add traveloka to agoda. Sometimes they’re a little cheaper. I brought almost nothing but still too much because i thought i will be too bored in 2 weeks quarantine. 3 years later and i still have stuff that i brought and never used
Thanks for the additions and the comment, the rain coat though… every time I’ve bought one in 7/11 it’s torn, got stuck on me and isn’t as nice/ comfy to wear on the scooter. This will last me months, maybe a year. The 7/11 lasts me about 5-10 wears, you’re missing out mate 😉.
@@josh.onthemove i have mine from decathlon but for most travelers the 7eleven ones are good enough. I bought all my rainy season gear there. Expensive for thai standards but good quality
Got pulled over on my scooter, showed them my “international driving license”, they laughed and charged me 500 baht for not having a license. I used it later for a paper airplane…..if you are pulled over at one of their mobile extortion stations, you will pay for something. Better advice, avoid riding your scooter in popular areas between 10am and 2pm. Oh and the raincoats are at every 711 for $1.
I’ve been pulled over 10+ times in the past 12-18 months, valid IDP and helmet, no issues. Assuming you’re not riding like an idiot or rude, you shouldn’t be fined. No need to avoid riding unless you’re not allowed to ride. The raincoats from 7/11 aren’t the same quality and mostly will be pullover ones, not button up ones + why not bring from home to save a job when here :) thanks for the comment 👍🏻
International driving license/permit yes is good to have but don't be too smug if you think you can drive anything, I remember tourist being stopped only to be told there not licensed. If your not covered in your own country then your not cover here and insurance invalid.
I mean it’s kind of a tongue in cheek comment. It’s never a good thing to be smug to police, especially in Thailand… you can feel more smug on the inside tho sir (assuming you’re valid on what you’re riding/ driving)🫡. Thanks for the comment!
Thanks for this, although reference the international driving licence the advice is not correct, you still cant legally drive a scooter in Thailand just with an international license, you need to have a full UK motorcycle licence, they can still pull you over and fine you with an international licence.
Thanks for the comment and info. As far as I understand, assuming you have a license that permits you to ride a scooter in the UK, your IDP will permit you to ride here also. I’ve never done a motorcycle test of any kind in the UK and I can ride a scooter in the UK and abroad with a relevant IDP 👍
@ you have to have a motorcycle endorsement on your international licence these last for 12 months, i have been stopped and fined in Samui and Phuket even with a UK international licence.
All rental businesses will give you a helmet with your bike. Go with a good company like Jungle wheels in Samui and they’ll give you a good/ proper helmet too, and if you’ve got a passenger they’ll give you an extra one. No extra fees 👍🏻
Haha I can’t remember the name now but pretty sure it was identical to this one from Amazon - www.amazon.co.uk/onaEz-Upgraded-Breathable-Comfortable-Traveling/dp/B09D8WL4JT/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?crid=1J47582YKH5CB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.almY5W9LMWqc9IKjS7SYHqLtVr8wSM111m3EPv1aKj3bmzSGzNb87MuRjjPkgVyeEZ1DH1ulnnSX6UwWZynlKL_FLrcT5e4zn-LxdXmUTJDXNM5iCaA8_uhvAUEx5dhKpqMZ-9bFfqP8sEt4_7Af5SoNeNEkUsCWKO20Tii5YXSdyLtcWp5z2GEZnnTUCVcpXjeHPTByR8NX29rDLfstrg.49rz-Vb6J2rqyMoaoYGZE6UTo7ttbwq7BxAFtzSBRLs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Eyes+mask+padded&qid=1726703033&sprefix=eyes+mask+padde%2Caps%2C244&sr=8-11 Thanks for the comment 👍🏻
Mosquito spray I’ve found is better and cheaper here than back home, what do you think? That’s why I didn’t mention it. Thanks for the comment, everyone has a different essentials list 👊🏻
@josh.onthemove yes I got mine the the company called AAA it's a insurance/ toe company they also do travel stuff, but from what i looked online it was roughly the same price last August in 2023
Old saying if you can't afford travel insurance you can't afford the holiday. Bad enough to get injured but the consequences of no insurance is horrific.
Actually, Thailand says that your passport MUST be valid for 6 months after you LEAVE Thailand. I know because it happened to me last year. I had a condo rented & flight already paid for & had to cancel them both. Luckily I got my money back. I was going for 5 months beginning November 1st & returning March 31st. My passport was good until the end of July which was about 5 months after I left Thailand. I called the Thai embassy in Chicago & they told me that is the law. Just sayin'!! Other than that, great video!!
Cheese and chocolate with ice packs in your case , snacks and T bags ,international drivers licence, plenty of cash , Dtec SIM card top up in a shop not in a airport, Book your flight early for a good price , medical and travel insurance with all ailments noted with insurance co , sun cream , common sense !
Get an international driving permit (IDP), they’re different to a licence. You should have one here to avoid any issues, they’re cheap and easy to get 👍🏻
Driving license is ok, but idp is better, the post office stopped doing them the other year, some shops do them now, your options is a 1 year or five year, 5 year was a £10 or less
@@myopinion262 no they’re not, they’re international driving permits (IDP) and depending on which one you get for which country, they last between 12 and 36 months.
@@josh.onthemove I have one in my hand! and I have used about 25 of them since 1975. In Australia they cost AUD$52 and expire 12 months after the issue date. No countries are listed on the IDP. You can see if a particular country accepts the IDP using a drop down box on the site with an internet search.... Excerpt from official IDP site: An international Driving Permit (IDP), is also known as an International Drivers Licence. IDPs are officially sanctioned by the United Nations and accepted worldwide (in over 150 countries). If you're renting or driving a car overseas, an IDP means you don’t need to apply for a licence in the country you’re visiting. (for over 150 signatory countries). It contains a translation of your current valid domestic driver’s licence photo card into most major languages and assists to interpret the categories of your driver’s license for international law enforcement, customs, and hire car companies The Australian Government selected the following nine (9) languages - English, Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Greek, German and Japanese. You’ll be able to use your IDP for 12 months from the date of issue as long as your (Australian) driver’s licence is also valid.
If ya gonna live of ya debit/credit card, get a wise prepaid debit card, the exchange rate is in most cases better than you can get in Thailand. I ran out of sun screen one time, cause me mam & niece robbed mine, we were on Koh Kood, £18 for nivia factor 50. Don't get the sim airside, wait till you've got ya suitcase.
Having stubbed my toe numerous times in Thailand due to multiple floor elevations, of course where you least expect it, i wear closed toe shoes. Hard not to cuss when it happens, which shows loss of face. Be sure and smile while you are expressing your thoughts verbally!👹
That’s potentially all you ‘need’ and you can buy most things but I think bringing things with you for most people if possible would be easier… and you can’t get two bank cards from your home country in Thailand 👍🏻
Apps: LINE or Whatsapp to communicate with Thais or others in Thailand (or anywhere). For those from the US - the Schwab card - all fees refunded at end of month.
Thanks for the comment, I’ve found LINE is used more/ preferred in certain areas than others but still useful app to download if you’re here longer term. Good tip with the Schwab card, I hadn’t heard of that.
@@markmorris4979 I wouldn’t now, but for convenience, if I was a first timer and wanted connection and ease of use instantly, the airport is a great option for a slightly higher price.
That’s interesting but not surprising, pretty sure it’s similar in the UK or the testing body provide the bike on the day possible. Thanks for the comment 👍🏻
A lot of places require some sort of riding school to be completed as well now. The pricer ones will provide bikes for the course and sometimes for the test and a rare few are tied into the DMV to help streamline testing. I remember when it was more for driving while on base. But it seems to be slowly creeping into a requirement.
I use really well made strapped sandals. They slip on and strap in but a lot of the foot is covered. But still airy enough to breathe and/or rinse out the sand w/o having to remove them (most of the time at least). It seems to be a perfect middle ground between crocs and flip flops IMO.
Hope you’re having a great day Billy 🙂. Buy at the airport OR an eSIM (this was the option suggested before travelling), OR in a Thai mall (not recommended for first timers)… What unsettled you here?
Been to Thailand many times: Bring PERFECT large bill cash for exchange, if you drive a scooter you need to have a motorcycle endorsement on your int'l DL. Take pre rent photos of scooter, jet ski, or car rental. Don't give rental your passport. Cash deposit. Use copy or phone photo of passport (portrait and stamp). Put everything (money, cards, phone, laptop) in safe. Bring a spare phone. Also, bring a "wireless" charger. If your phone gets wet you won't be able to plug n charge but you will be able to charge with a wireless. use bolt app or require taxi to turn on meter. Don't argue or be disrespectful. pay your bar bill. Don't get too drunk. don't drink or brush teeth with tap water you will get sick. ICE is usually OK with drinks. Use mosquito spray especially if you are out of the cities....and have a great time.
Lots of people tell me that you don't need category A on your driving license to ride a scooter. Are they wrong?
I’ve been visiting every year since 1998 and can absolutely agree with all these recommendations. I would add to wash your hands and pay attention to the hygiene of the street food vendors you use. Try to get the food HOT.
@@leikindDon’t ride a scooter if you have no motorcycle experience,,
@@cabovermike in my country (Belgium) you can ride a 125cc motorcycle with category B only, and I do ride one
A motorcycle license endorsement on your international driver's license is required if you want to ride a motorcycle.
You must have a motorcycle license in your country of origin to get that endorsement.
They only last 12 months from the issue date.
I'm new to traveling abroad. First time going to Thailand from the United States. I'll be there in the middle of November through the middle of February for 3 months with my Thai girl that I've met 8 months ago. That's where I plan on retiring full-time. Just turned 60 and my Thai girl is a nurse at 50. This is great information. Very helpful. Thank you. ✌️
Thanks for the comment! Sounds like life’s just getting started 🙏🏻🇹🇭💙
Am in Phuket now. From US. Before planning to retire here, come see if this lifestyle is for you. It is not the US. :))
Great info, thanks. When withdrawing cash from an ATM, get odd instead of round number amounts. This will (hopefully) give you some smaller bills as well as the large ones.
Thanks Albert, good tip 👍🏻
Also bring Picaridin insect lotion for mosquitoes. Prevents dengue fever and lasts at least 8 hours without a smell.
GREAT POINTS! 😎As you said, be sure you have a translation app installed on your phone.. MOST importantly have Thai language definition pre-downloaded. Like the Google translation app, you can download the small language translation database locally on your phone. This is GOLD until you get a local Thailand SIM card, or if you have no cell connectivity, translation apps won’t work without connectivity on your phone. You’ll need it most when you’re traveling out in the sticks and have no cell connection but desperately need to communicate to locals.
Thanks for the comment mate. Great point too, we’re reliant on having connection for nearly everything now right !?
Good advice
I've lived in Laos for years and finally I took my driving test here. Not difficult and the police love it.
Thanks for the comment. If I’m in TH long enough I’ll take my test here too. Was it difficult in Laos?
This will be a killer vid in the long run Buddy...great advice simple and straight to the point(s)
Thank you mate 👊🏻!
The sun creams a great point...also Razors & shaving cream...they cost a fortune out there best 2 bring them with you
Good shout! Thanks for the comment Chris 👊🏻
u heard of this unknown store called 7 eleven..Very good razors 2 pack cost 20 baht and small shaving cream cost ´50baht ..i prefer a real knife shave for 80 baht...anyway
Really great list!!! Thank you!!!
Thanks! Glad you found it useful
Cash: $100 bills in perfect condition for best exchange rates. Super Rich and T.T. Exchange best and you can find such in lowest level at BKK Airport, near rail connection.
Medical kit: pharmacies every 10 yards it seems.
ATMs: Expensive. Bring about $1,000 in $100s to exchange to reduce cost. Always remove max cash to cut number of uses.
Bolt best in Pattaya, but during holidays and high season weekends be grateful for any ride.
Bring your memories of why you got out of your home country and make the best of your time here.
Thanks for the comment. Interesting you’ve found they value bigger, crisper notes more than any currency. Didn’t know that!
@@josh.onthemove FYI: In every exchange booth hangs a sign showing exchange rates for $100s, $50s, and then smaller bills. They will reject any bills with markings or even slight tears. Same at banks.
@@kennethmcgurn3830 interesting, never noticed previously!
Before you go change your money in super rich office, check krungthai bang rates...
Subscribed as a gesture to say thanks for this video, mate.
Thanks mate!
I always carry two cards and on one account I keep 90% of my money and slowly transfer it over to the card that I use daily. If it gets compromised they don't get much from me. And this just recently happened to me and everything worked out fine.
First things I do is to make a appointment at the hospital I use in BKK to get refills on my meds second things is to purchase a new phone and download all my apps and contact from my U.S phone to the new one in cast I loss my phone and then buy the thai Sim card to make locate call also I
Contact my U.S phone company and purchase an International phone plan ThIrd thing I do is make at least 20 copy of my US passport with my
Driver license on the same copy to avoid carrying around my passport all the time last thing and very important is to give my family all my credit and debit card information so if I loss one or one is stolen they can cancel it immediately lastly I leave them additional Cash to wire me if I run
Into a money problems great video again to first time International traveler's or even world traveler's like yourself also yes please purchase travel insurance
A couple of top tips from me, tell your bank your going abroad, what can happen is if your away and the bank sees unusual activity on your card they will block it! The same with your phone, also whilst your in Thailand buy a cheap cheap phone, 1 if you loose your main phone you can use the back up phone as a translator for help, you can have Google maps, translation also back up any e tickets and a copy of you pasport, and flight details, keep that phone away from you keep it in you suit case or something phone in Thailand are very cheap, for what it costs ifset against the hassle of no connection, and loosing all of your details its a game changer
Concerning SIM card booths in Thailand do not get it before you leave the customs immigration restricted area. Sometimes the very same company is franchise to somebody else and they say you have to go to where you bought your SIM card and you cannot go back into the immigration area. This happened to me at the Phuket airport. And the very same company is just outside the immigration exit door.
#4 is a total must. ATM's eat your cards here. I just carry my canadian sim when i have to get a onetime password sim roams in thailand
I feel your pain. I find it faff swapping sims just for the OTP but if your phone can’t hold two sims active at the same time that’s the best option for sure. Thanks for the comment!
THIS IS GOLD BRO. CHEERS.
Thank you mate, hope it helps!
Tried an eSIM never again.
Could not access service and couldn’t get my money back.
Local sim the way to go.
Good information Josh, thank you.
I’ve heard good and bad things but I’d defo lean towards buying one local! Thanks for the comment!
Very good, keep up the good work
Thanks Kelvin!
The card trick is probably one of the best tips iv seen didn’t even think about that haha 👍
I’m unsure if this is sarcasm or not but either way, thanks for the comment 😏
@@josh.onthemove sorry no I ment it haha is a good tip ! I’m planning Thailand atm so thanks for the tips
@@p4_gang841 haha thanks! You wouldn’t believe the amount of twats in comment sections… I take everything with a pinch of salt 🤣
@@josh.onthemove😂I can imagine lol , keep up the good work bro
A medical kit is a must have in that hot, humid, bacteria rich environment of SE Asia.
Translation apps are great; especially if you have one that you can take a picture of a menu, for example, and then have it translated.
ESimms just confuse most people when they are traveling I have found. I don't use it even though my phone is capable. I bring my US phone that has international service and then my other phone to put a SIMM into for local travel. Having a local number is a good idea so that one can communicate locally with hotels, car hire, tourist crud....
Thanks for the comment. With my phone it lets me keep my UK sim as an eSIM without it being in my phone and then have an actual Thai sim in my phone so I don’t need to swap, super handy!
So much great info thanks 👍🏻
Thanks, glad it was helpful!
Great advice as per usual!
Thanks bro!
I have been to Thailand countless times, and the thing that stands out is the number of tourists injured on motorcycles. Thai roads are dangerous, congested, and road rules are suggestions only, hire a motor cycle, and jeopardise your holiday. I agree with everything he has said
Thanks for the video. Will be going to a Muay Thai camp in a few weeks and am doing some research. Your video was very helpful
Thanks for the comment, there’s another video on my page about Muay Thai too, check it out it might also be helpful. Have a good one bro!
@@josh.onthemove that's awesome. Will check it out. I will be in Chiang Mai. Have you been training there before?
Good tips there, what i will add about money is this idea of exchanging cash or using bank cards.
Get a top up travel card Revolut/Wise etc. You get perfect interbank rates and you can exchange your money from one currency to THB in app, if your savy youll keep checking and add a notification so you can exchange when Baht goes uo against the pound. Then you have Baht in your account, then, you can walk into a bank in Bangkok (at the counter) and withdraw money without ATM charges.
No street exchange will give you rates as good as interbank and bank cards tend to charge fees (although i know a few dont).
Great tip! The notification of the current exchange rate changes is a massive bonus 🙌🏻
Thank you so much I had 7 of the 10!!!
That’s a pretty good number. I still forget one or two from my own list even now 😅😅
Thanks mate great advice:)
Thanks Clive 👊🏻
Excellent advice thank you
Thanks John 👍🏻
Those Jellyfish are an absolute treat Bro bit of chili and garlic.
Haha are you cooking?
@@josh.onthemove Yeah Josh do a bit now n then with a coupla bevies.
Very useful , thanks
Thanks for the comment!
Looks like a " Cyanea barkeri" jellyfish light to dark brown with spots. You mentioned travel insurance but not all insurance will cover all, ie participating in sports. If you are training a gym, they should have a plaster!
"Wun ov dem liss" ( you need a translator!) 555
Some basic knowledge of useful Thai sentences can be very helpful.
2 phones are essential, both with bank apps and passwords.
A good padlock and cable to use on a hired motorcycle. Not cheapies. Useful to secure luggage as well.
No surprises for me. I've visited 23 times.
Thanks heaps.
Great advice for newbies!
Very helpful vid as always🥰
Rip to the 🪼
Thank you! RIP 🪼
With regard to your bankcard comments, remember to inform your bank that you're travelling abroad, I had problems years ago with my Nationwide card, you didn't have to tell them you were travelling abroad but after I used my card once they locked it, I had to spend half an hour convincing them that it was me that had used my card.
Very similar to the sitch I’ve had. Supposedly you don’t need to tell my bank either but I’ve been locked out twice. It’s both a good and bad thing, good they notice odd behaviour and lock the card, annoying you can’t use it!
Well done mate, good info
Thanks mate 👊🏻
One thing your viewers need to be careful of on item 10 is the capacity of the power pack. When you are departing Bangkok and you have your power pack in your carry on they will check the capacity of the unit. If it is higher than what they allow they will take it off you. It happened to me a few years ago.
I believe the capacity is 28,000 but it would be worth checking. I bought the maximum allowance size I could. Thanks for the comment!
Good information buddy
Thanks Wayne!
Great top tips Josh cheers!
@@MJP1970 thanks!!
I always bring a few zip ties are a great help
That’s a new one, I guess it depends what you get up to 😅
@@josh.onthemove You can get up to anything with the right zip ties. Those and Gorilla tape make anything possible 😄
Question does it make sense to pack light and purchase some clothing footwear in Thailand rather than packing it? Thanks for the very informative video.
Could do either, there is everything you need here and you might then know more of what you’ll want with you rather than overpacking the wrong things 👍🏻
@@JereKleinbach that’s a great idea. I do it every year. In fact, I bring old clothes and unwanted clothes. I wear them until I replace them there. I get them laundered and leave them in the hotel when I check out or take them to a temple. The only area of caution with this is shoes. If you have large feet, finding new shoes can be a challenge for big feet.
Hi Mate, looks like your back in hu
Bringing a eain coat when you get one for cents in any 7 feels a bit unnecessary. Bring jai yen yen and insurance 😂 i can recommend opening s wise account and ordering their visa debit card. I use it to pay for so many things including phone bill, taxis, domestic flights, hotels. And you can use it as a subway ticket in Bangkok. Btw pack all your medication in carry on. I have a sticker on it which says prescription medicine inside. Nobody ever cared if I had a little more than 7kg. I can add traveloka to agoda. Sometimes they’re a little cheaper. I brought almost nothing but still too much because i thought i will be too bored in 2 weeks quarantine. 3 years later and i still have stuff that i brought and never used
Thanks for the additions and the comment, the rain coat though… every time I’ve bought one in 7/11 it’s torn, got stuck on me and isn’t as nice/ comfy to wear on the scooter. This will last me months, maybe a year. The 7/11 lasts me about 5-10 wears, you’re missing out mate 😉.
@@josh.onthemove i have mine from decathlon but for most travelers the 7eleven ones are good enough. I bought all my rainy season gear there. Expensive for thai standards but good quality
Got pulled over on my scooter, showed them my “international driving license”, they laughed and charged me 500 baht for not having a license. I used it later for a paper airplane…..if you are pulled over at one of their mobile extortion stations, you will pay for something. Better advice, avoid riding your scooter in popular areas between 10am and 2pm. Oh and the raincoats are at every 711 for $1.
I’ve been pulled over 10+ times in the past 12-18 months, valid IDP and helmet, no issues. Assuming you’re not riding like an idiot or rude, you shouldn’t be fined. No need to avoid riding unless you’re not allowed to ride. The raincoats from 7/11 aren’t the same quality and mostly will be pullover ones, not button up ones + why not bring from home to save a job when here :) thanks for the comment 👍🏻
@@josh.onthemovegood clarifixaions
I saw my condo in the background, Hua Hin
That’s it Kevin 🫡
International driving license/permit yes is good to have but don't be too smug if you think you can drive anything, I remember tourist being stopped only to be told there not licensed.
If your not covered in your own country then your not cover here and insurance invalid.
I mean it’s kind of a tongue in cheek comment. It’s never a good thing to be smug to police, especially in Thailand… you can feel more smug on the inside tho sir (assuming you’re valid on what you’re riding/ driving)🫡. Thanks for the comment!
I arrived yesterday one a one way flight and wasn’t questioned.. phew
I’ve also had no issues previously, a good friend has though. I’ll find out again in a few weeks, thanks for the comment 👍🏻
jeez hair looking fire
Haha thanks
Great video thanks for the info (allow them jellyfish) 😅
@@Midlifehits there’s a lot of em knocking about mate
Thanks
👊🏻
Thanks for this, although reference the international driving licence the advice is not correct, you still cant legally drive a scooter in Thailand just with an international license, you need to have a full UK motorcycle licence, they can still pull you over and fine you with an international licence.
Thanks for the comment and info. As far as I understand, assuming you have a license that permits you to ride a scooter in the UK, your IDP will permit you to ride here also. I’ve never done a motorcycle test of any kind in the UK and I can ride a scooter in the UK and abroad with a relevant IDP 👍
@ you have to have a motorcycle endorsement on your international licence these last for 12 months, i have been stopped and fined in Samui and Phuket even with a UK international licence.
Bottom line....
Don't get caught without a raincoat.
Never get caught without a raincoat 😅 (in the wet season anyway)
What about your motorcycle helmet? Do you rent one with the scooter or buy local or pack your own? I've got 2 weeks left to figure that out! 😁
All rental businesses will give you a helmet with your bike. Go with a good company like Jungle wheels in Samui and they’ll give you a good/ proper helmet too, and if you’ve got a passenger they’ll give you an extra one. No extra fees 👍🏻
Thanks for the great tips, can I ask what the name of that eye mask that was in your drawer at (13:40 )… I could use one of those !
Haha I can’t remember the name now but pretty sure it was identical to this one from Amazon - www.amazon.co.uk/onaEz-Upgraded-Breathable-Comfortable-Traveling/dp/B09D8WL4JT/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?crid=1J47582YKH5CB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.almY5W9LMWqc9IKjS7SYHqLtVr8wSM111m3EPv1aKj3bmzSGzNb87MuRjjPkgVyeEZ1DH1ulnnSX6UwWZynlKL_FLrcT5e4zn-LxdXmUTJDXNM5iCaA8_uhvAUEx5dhKpqMZ-9bFfqP8sEt4_7Af5SoNeNEkUsCWKO20Tii5YXSdyLtcWp5z2GEZnnTUCVcpXjeHPTByR8NX29rDLfstrg.49rz-Vb6J2rqyMoaoYGZE6UTo7ttbwq7BxAFtzSBRLs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Eyes+mask+padded&qid=1726703033&sprefix=eyes+mask+padde%2Caps%2C244&sr=8-11
Thanks for the comment 👍🏻
I don’t have travel insurance cause family is here. Anti septic cream, electric shaver, Delhi belly tabs, mosquito spray, etc
Mosquito spray I’ve found is better and cheaper here than back home, what do you think? That’s why I didn’t mention it. Thanks for the comment, everyone has a different essentials list 👊🏻
Also those little yellow travel sickness pills from any pharmacy ( cheap) stop sea sickness if your doing island hopping,,
Last year cost me roughly $20-$25 for my international permit
That's interesting to know, is that USD? It cost me around £8-10 including the photos
@josh.onthemove yes I got mine the the company called AAA it's a insurance/ toe company they also do travel stuff, but from what i looked online it was roughly the same price last August in 2023
Old saying if you can't afford travel insurance you can't afford the holiday. Bad enough to get injured but the consequences of no insurance is horrific.
Not heard that before but wise words 🫡
Man I’m old school, keep cash with me 😂
Cash is still king 🙌🏻. Always keep cash with me too but at some point it’ll run out and I’ll need to top up 😅
@@josh.onthemove haha yeah man for sure 👌🏻!
Good video ,keep it up tho 😎👌🏻
Actually, Thailand says that your passport MUST be valid for 6 months after you LEAVE Thailand. I know because it happened to me last year. I had a condo rented & flight already paid for & had to cancel them both. Luckily I got my money back. I was going for 5 months beginning November 1st & returning March 31st. My passport was good until the end of July which was about 5 months after I left Thailand. I called the Thai embassy in Chicago & they told me that is the law. Just sayin'!! Other than that, great video!!
Thanks for the comment and sharing that experience! Sounds like stress mate. Hopefully people can learn from that 👊🏻
Cheese and chocolate with ice packs in your case , snacks and T bags ,international drivers licence, plenty of cash , Dtec SIM card top up in a shop not in a airport, Book your flight early for a good price , medical and travel insurance with all ailments noted with insurance co ,
sun cream , common sense !
Sadly, common sense isn't too common anymore.
43 days but hey who’s counting😈
Excited for you!
@@josh.onthemove thanks Josh!
43 days to be a trick lol
@@binyam11 afterwards I’ll be going to Ethiopia and paying your parents 100birr per month to wash my feet. Enough money to feed your entire village
@@jbrobele don’t be mad at me because u can’t get a girl … we Ethiopians got beautiful , feminine girls so don’t hate
Don´t bring sun cream, it could get you in trouble. No joke.
do you need internation dirving license there (am planning to visit Bangok, Surat thani & Koh Samui) - i do have my home country driving license
Get an international driving permit (IDP), they’re different to a licence. You should have one here to avoid any issues, they’re cheap and easy to get 👍🏻
Driving license is ok, but idp is better, the post office stopped doing them the other year, some shops do them now, your options is a 1 year or five year, 5 year was a £10 or less
What type visa did you use on this trip?
Just a visa upon entry for 60 days, can renew once for 30 days at the immigration office 👍🏻
@@josh.onthemove perfect.
Got pulled over in Samui…the man in brown didn’t know what an international permit was.😂
I’d be surprised if that wasn’t a bit of a bluff… Did you have to pay? You shouldn’t have had to if you had a valid permit and helmet on 👍🏻
@@josh.onthemove They are not permits. They are International Drivers Licenses
and only last 12 months.
@@myopinion262 no they’re not, they’re international driving permits (IDP) and depending on which one you get for which country, they last between 12 and 36 months.
@@josh.onthemove
I have one in my hand! and I have used about 25 of them since 1975.
In Australia they cost AUD$52 and expire 12 months after the issue date. No countries are listed on the IDP. You can see if a particular country accepts the IDP using a drop down box on the site with an internet search....
Excerpt from official IDP site:
An international Driving Permit (IDP), is also known as an International Drivers Licence.
IDPs are officially sanctioned by the United Nations and accepted worldwide (in over 150 countries).
If you're renting or driving a car overseas, an IDP means you don’t need to apply for a licence in the country you’re visiting. (for over 150 signatory countries).
It contains a translation of your current valid domestic driver’s licence photo card into most major languages and assists to interpret the categories of your driver’s license for international law enforcement, customs, and hire car companies
The Australian Government selected the following nine (9) languages - English, Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Greek, German and Japanese. You’ll be able to use your IDP for 12 months from the date of issue as long as your (Australian) driver’s licence is also valid.
I’d that her use an eSIM app
back in hua hin ?
Does the beach look familiar ;) ?
Yeah maze you walked passed my condo on the beach . 2 buildings left of the new standard hotel. Would be good to catch up. .
The new standard that's getting built. Not the one that's open in town.
If ya gonna live of ya debit/credit card, get a wise prepaid debit card, the exchange rate is in most cases better than you can get in Thailand. I ran out of sun screen one time, cause me mam & niece robbed mine, we were on Koh Kood, £18 for nivia factor 50. Don't get the sim airside, wait till you've got ya suitcase.
Having stubbed my toe numerous times in Thailand due to multiple floor elevations, of course where you least expect it, i wear closed toe shoes. Hard not to cuss when it happens, which shows loss of face. Be sure and smile while you are expressing your thoughts verbally!👹
Clean change of clothes, passport and cash is all you need. Anything else you can get it in Thailand.
That’s potentially all you ‘need’ and you can buy most things but I think bringing things with you for most people if possible would be easier… and you can’t get two bank cards from your home country in Thailand 👍🏻
Apps: LINE or Whatsapp to communicate with Thais or others in Thailand (or anywhere).
For those from the US - the Schwab card - all fees refunded at end of month.
Thanks for the comment, I’ve found LINE is used more/ preferred in certain areas than others but still useful app to download if you’re here longer term. Good tip with the Schwab card, I hadn’t heard of that.
you can buy a poncho for 100 baht from 7_11
The quality isn’t comparable, the 7/11 last a few wears, these actually last 👍🏻
If aspirin isn't on the list is should be.
Potentially if you need it, I’m not sure it’s a must take for everyone though. I never bring it/ take it. Thanks for the comment though 👍🏻
i would never get a sim package at an airport ,way over priced ,so easy to just wait to go shopping mall or 7/11
@@markmorris4979 I wouldn’t now, but for convenience, if I was a first timer and wanted connection and ease of use instantly, the airport is a great option for a slightly higher price.
Here in SFO, CA, can't rent a motoscooter for the test for motocycle license. You have to either borrow or own one.
That’s interesting but not surprising, pretty sure it’s similar in the UK or the testing body provide the bike on the day possible. Thanks for the comment 👍🏻
A lot of places require some sort of riding school to be completed as well now. The pricer ones will provide bikes for the course and sometimes for the test and a rare few are tied into the DMV to help streamline testing. I remember when it was more for driving while on base. But it seems to be slowly creeping into a requirement.
all good but please not use shoes like crocs for long walk ;)
I been going to Thailand for a lot longer than 6yrs and I dont take more than half of these suggestions..... :)
Fair 👍
Travel Insurance
Indeed 👍🏻
Get yourself a crypto card and travel all over the world without having to worry about cash and banks. thank me later.
I wouldn’t even know where to start, but I’m interested.
i found crocs terrible for my travel footwear. good flip flops are the way to go.
I’ve been converted and completely feel the opposite now. I like to be strapped in, in sports mode 🤣
@@josh.onthemove i hated the feeling once a little sand got in them.
I use really well made strapped sandals. They slip on and strap in but a lot of the foot is covered. But still airy enough to breathe and/or rinse out the sand w/o having to remove them (most of the time at least). It seems to be a perfect middle ground between crocs and flip flops IMO.
OMG at 1:18, that's my grandpa's house on the far left of the screen. The white one.
Beach front? What a spot!
"10 things you must TAKE to Thailand" BUY a sim card in a Thai shop!!!!Eh
Hope you’re having a great day Billy 🙂. Buy at the airport OR an eSIM (this was the option suggested before travelling), OR in a Thai mall (not recommended for first timers)… What unsettled you here?
And crab cream
CONDOMS
The other vital raincoat 🤣