Backpacking Thailand: Solo Female Travel Guide!

Backpacking Thailand was my first big solo travel adventure, and I can’t even begin to explain how much it changed my life.

I’ve been back to Thailand twice and spent almost 5 months exploring every corner of this stunning country. 

Oh, and all that without renting a scooter, so you know it’s possible!

In this guide, I’ll show you all the fun things to do in Thailand, the best backpacking route, how to get around, and where to stay.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

8. Temple Hop In Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is home to the famous White Temple, which most people say is the most beautiful temple in Thailand. You should also visit the Blue Temple, Giant Buda, and the Black House.

9. Take A Photo In Maya Bay

You see how I didn’t say swim in Maya Bay? That’s because this iconic bay is more of a photo spot. You can only get in the water up to your knees, but it’s so beautiful that it’s still worth visiting.

10. Stay In Overwater Bungalows In Khao Sok 

Khao Sok National Park is one of the best hidden gems in Thailand. Spend a night in one of the overwater bungalows and jump in the water from your balcony!

11. Full Moon Party On Koh Phangan

Another iconic Thailand experience is the Full Moon party on Koh Phangan. Sure, it’s crowded and loud, but it’s one of those things you just have to tick off your bucket list.

12. Watch The Sunset In Koh Phi Phi

Before traveling to Koh Phi Phi, I thought it was an island for couples. It’s a fantastic destination for backpackers with beach parties, hostels, and a stunning sunset viewpoint hike in the middle of the island.

13. Snorkel With Turtles In Koh Tao

Even if you don’t dive in Koh Tao, you can explore the marine life and coral reefs on a snorkeling tour. Turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, as I learned when swimming after several potential turtles during the tour I joined.

Thailand Backpacking Route 

Basically, you can travel from north to south or vice versa. 

I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Thailand and followed a different route each time I visited.

Both routes are popular with backpackers and work great, so it really depends on your interests.

Most backpackers will start their Thailand adventure in Bangkok, as it’s the main international gateway. 

I started my first trip in Bangkok and I think it’s the perfect place to start backpacking in Southeast Asia. 

Bangkok is chaotic, and exciting, and gives you a taste of Thai culture right away.

The downside of starting in Bangkok is that you’ll probably need to fly at one point, from the islands to Chiang Mai, or take a long bus/train trip.

However, these flights tend to be very affordable. I took a flight from Chiang Rai to Phuket for under €30!

Of course, your route will depend on how much time you have in Thailand. 

On my first trip, I traveled to Laos after Chiang Rai, and on my second trip, I took a flight to the South.

Best Hostels in Thailand

Hostels were one of the highlights of my trip to Thailand. I’ve met some of my best friends and people who made this trip as memorable as it was. 

Since Thailand is such a popular backpacking destination you’ll find many hostels throughout the country. 

However, they’re not all made the same! 

If you’re a solo traveler who wants to make friends, I suggest going to social hostels. That’s not necessarily party hostels, as those can be a bit intense and I usually avoid them.

Getting Around Thailand

If you’re following the typical backpacker route, getting around Thailand is a breeze.

The country has a well-developed transport system, with trains, buses, ferries, and budget flights connecting all the major tourist spots.

However, don’t expect perfect punctuality as arrival times are usually just a rough estimate.

Traveling By Bus

I took several long-distance buses in Thailand, and I’d say it’s an effective and affordable way to get from one place to another.

I traveled by bus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai and Pai, from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai, and from Ao Nang to Phuket, among others.

I booked most of my buses on this website, and I didn’t encounter any problems. Buses are usually comfortable, relatively on time, and well-organized.

🚌 Get your bus tickets here!

Traveling By Train

The most popular train route in Thailand is the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or the other way around. 

Taking this train is one of the iconic backpacking experiences in Thailand, but I haven’t done it yet as I split my journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

However, some of my friends have, and they really enjoyed it. If you book a first-class ticket, you’re in for a treat!

I took a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya and that one worked great for me. 

If you’re taking the overnight train, I suggest booking your ticket online to ensure you have a seat in advance. The Ayutthaya train is quick, so you don’t have to worry much about it.

🚂 Book your train tickets here!

Traveling By Ferry

If you’re going to the islands, you’ll have to take a ferry or a speedboat.

Phuket and Koh Samui also have an airport, but they wouldn’t be my first choice for backpackers.

When choosing between a speedboat and a ferry, I highly recommend opting for the ferry. Speedboats can be borderline dangerous, especially in rough seas.

Also, bring motion sickness pills just in case. Even if you’re not prone to seasickness, it’s better to have them on hand.

I took more than five ferries in Thailand without any issues until I ended up on the worst ferry ride of my life, where nearly everyone was throwing up around me.

You can buy ferry tickets online or from one of the many ticket stands throughout the city. 

If you’re not in a rush, compare prices before booking. Sometimes tickets are more affordable online, while other times, buying in person is the better deal.

⛴️ Check ferry prices here!

Taking Domestic Flights

I don’t usually take flights when backpacking, but the ones I took in Thailand were cheaper than taking a bus!

Flights are the best option if your luggage is under 7kg. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay extra, which can make the flight more expensive.

As always, booking in advance ensures you get the best price.

Public Transportation

Bangkok is the only city I visited in Thailand with a well-developed public transport system –metro and buses. 

Other cities either have a basic bus system or no public transportation at all. 

Chiang Mai is famous for its red Songthaews, which serve as public transport. However, there are also buses. I took a bus to get around Chiang Rai and Phuket, too.

Taxi And Grab

If you download one app for backpacking in Thailand, it should be Grab.

Forget about negotiating prices with taxis and tuk-tuk drivers. Just open your Grab app, order a ride, and enjoy the ride because you have not been scammed.

I used Grab countless times all over Thailand, and it completely eliminated my fear of being bankrupted by taxi drivers.

Best Time to Visit Thailand

Like other Southeast Asian countries, Thailand has distinct high and low seasons, which align with the wet and dry seasons.

Ideally, you’d visit Thailand during the dry season, which runs from November to March.

That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Thailand during the rainy season, but choosing the dry season gives you a better chance of sunny weather.

However, just because you visit during the dry season, doesn’t mean you won’t see any rain. 

For example, I visited Koh Tao in February, during the dry season, and had two days of torrential rain. 

At the same time, I was backpacking Cambodia during the rainy season and barely saw any rain at all.

Also, avoid the burning season in the north of Thailand which runs from January to April. 

Dates are not fixed, and you may be lucky and skip it like I did when I visited Chiang Mai for the first time in late January. 

Thailand Backpacking Budget

So, how much does it cost to backpack around Thailand?

It depends on your budget. Thailand is a country where you can get by on €20 or €200 per day. 

On average, I suggest you budget €30 to €50 per day for backpacking Thailand. 

• Hostels: €10-20 per night
• Food: €2-8 per meal
• Transport: €5-20 per day
• Activities: €5-25 per day

Personally, I spent about €48 per day during my last trip to Thailand. 

That included staying mainly in private rooms, going on several boat tours, taking 2 flights, and generally treating myself to the best vegan food.

I spent significantly less on my first trip where I exclusively stayed in dorms, took buses everywhere, and ate street food most of the time. 

That being said, your budget will vary depending on how you spend your time and money. 

Are you renting a scooter, going out for drinks, or taking on bucket-list experiences like a diving course in Koh Tao?

All of these add up and affect your final budget.

Is Thailand Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

The main question I had before traveling to Thailand was if it was safe for solo female travelers.

I’m glad to report that I felt safer in Thailand than in most of Europe!

Thailand is one of the safest countries for tourists, with very low rates of violent crimes. 

Sure, you should always stay alert and pay attention to your belongings, but I didn’t get into any situations where I felt uncomfortable while in Thailand.

Also, don’t mess around with illegal substances. They’re illegal for a reason and you don’t want to get in trouble, sick, or worse.

Another danger I wasn’t expecting when preparing for my trip was the risk of getting bitten by stray animals. 

There’s still rabies in Thailand and I highly suggest avoiding touching animals and having good health insurance to get your vaccines in case you get bitten. 

Final Thoughts: Backpacking Thailand

I know it sounds cheesy, but backpacking Thailand changed my life, and I can’t recommend it enough to other solo female travelers.

This trip taught me so much about different cultures, the world, myself, and others.

Thailand is a popular travel destination with endless things to explore. Don’t just listen to people who visit solely for the beaches and parties, because that’s the least of what Thailand has to offer.

From intricate temples in Chiang Mai to the laid-back atmosphere of Pai, beach hopping in Koh Tao, and partying until the morning on Kao San Road, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure!

Are you planning a big SE Asia backpacking trip? Read my other backpacking guides next:

• The Ultimate Guide For Backpacking Vietnam
• Backpacking Bali For First-Time Visitors
• The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Cambodia
• Backpacking Malaysia: BEST Guide For First-Timers