Thailand Travel Safety Guide for Women

Thailand stands out as one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia for female travelers, but navigating its strict laws requires taking precautions to ensure a secure and enjoyable vacation. Read through this article completely for a detailed Thailand Travel Safety Guide before your trip.

Your choice of destinations and planned activities in the country can significantly impact safety levels for certain travelers. Also, make sure to read our essential travel safety tips for women.

Similar to any country, Thailand has its share of areas with safety concerns. However, armed with the knowledge of what to do, the ability to steer clear of potentially unsafe locations, and, more importantly, awareness of what to avoid, you are poised for an incredible experience in Thailand.

Explore the beauty of Thailand with confidence, armed with the know-how to make your journey not just memorable, but also safe and enjoyable

SAFETY IN THAILAND

While tourism significantly contributes to Thailand’s economy, safety considerations are not always prioritized at various attractions and resorts. Beaches typically lack lifeguards, and there is a lack of identification for hazardous areas and activities, coupled with staff that may not be adequately trained or certified.

Access to appropriate medical treatment is often limited outside major cities. Consequently, the State Department advises U.S. citizens to invest in travel medical insurance with comprehensive coverage, including medical evacuation.

TRAVEL SAFETY RATINGS

Measures of global safety give Thailand mixed ratings. The country is: 

Thailand is ranked 92nd out of 163 countries for peaceability, according to the latest Global Peace Index. The country receives commendable scores for limited access to weapons and a low homicide rate. However, it earns middling marks for personal safety and poor marks for a high incarceration rate.

The U.S. State Department gives Thailand a level-1 rating (exercise normal precautions).

However, Bangkok, the principal city, receives low marks according to the global safety app GeoSure. The city is particularly rated poorly for nighttime safety and basic freedoms in the GeoSure rankings.

SAFETY IN THAILAND FOR WOMEN

Thailand is a highly sought-after destination for female travelers, with a reputation for respectful treatment in this friendly, Buddhist-majority nation. However, there are some safety concerns that female tourists should be aware of, ranging from scams to bag snatching and drink spiking

• Ways to stay safe in taxis/tuk-tuks

• Be wary of pickpockets and bag snatchers

• Keep a watch on your drinks for drink spikers

• Be careful around other travelers

Ways to stay safe in taxis/tuk-tuks

In recent years, there have been reports in Thai media of women facing abduction and assault by taxi drivers, though it’s not widespread. Female travelers can enhance their safety using taxis. It is highly recommended to use a taxi app like Grab, which is convenient, cheap, and safe, providing fixed fares and driver details.

In situations where using Grab is not possible, especially at airports, take a photo of the driver’s ID when in a regular taxi. This precautionary measure not only records details but also makes the driver cautious. Take your safety to a higher level by downloading offline maps of the regions you will be visiting in Thailand before your trip on GPS apps like Maps.me or Google Maps to track your travel route. Make sure your usage of the app is visible in order to make the driver extra cautious.

Be wary of pickpockets and bag snatchers

While violent tourist robberies are rare, pickpocketing and bag snatching pose threats. Bag snatchers on scooters often target women carrying bags slung over one shoulder. To prevent this, carry your bag on the shoulder facing away from the street. Pickpocketing is prevalent in crowded areas, so wearing pants or shorts with zippered pockets is advisable. Women can protect against pickpockets by holding handbags in front or investing in a crossbody bag that will make it difficult for thefts.

Keep a watch on your drinks for drink spikers

Thailand has documented cases of drink spiking, posing risks of sexual assault or robbery, especially for solo female travelers. Find companions when heading to bars alone, and never leave your drink unattended. Tap water is a greater threat than drink spiking; avoid consuming tap water and opt for sealed bottled water.

Be careful around other travelers

Thailand attracts a diverse crowd, including shady tourists and expats. While connecting with fellow Westerners is natural, be cautious, especially in nightlife areas. Thailand’s stereotypical image as a hedonistic destination attracts individuals with dubious intentions. Stay vigilant, and exercise the same caution as you would back home when approached by strangers, particularly in nightlife settings.

TERRORISM AND DEMONSTRATIONS

While periodic incidents of terrorist-related violence in Thailand persist, there has not been a significant event since 2019.

According to the State Department, terrorists are increasingly resorting to less sophisticated methods, such as knives, firearms, and vehicles, to target various locations, including high-profile public events like sporting contests, political rallies, and holiday gatherings, as well as hotels, clubs, restaurants frequented by tourists, places of worship, schools, parks, shopping malls, markets, and public transportation systems.

Demonstrations around the U.S. Embassy and consulates are not uncommon. It is advisable to stay clear of these protests. Enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) provides real-time reports on locations to avoid while traveling in Thailand.

There is also a risk of terror-related violence in the far southern region of Thailand, with limited U.S. government support. In general, it is prudent to steer clear of this area, sign up for STEP, and regularly check the Thailand page on travel.state.gov for the latest updates.

CRIME IN THAILAND

While violent crimes in Thailand are relatively rare, they do occur. Crimes against women are also a possibility, often linked to drinking and/or drug use involving one or both parties.

Regrettably, in many male-female crime situations, Thai police are often more inclined to favor the male party, especially if the male is Thai. In such instances, the State Department recommends reaching out to the embassy at +66 (0) 2-205-4049 and seeking assistance from a local attorney.

It’s crucial for victims to report crimes to local authorities by dialing 19 or contacting Thailand’s special Tourist Police at 1155.

Thailand Travel Safety Guide – Scams

Thailand is not a stranger to various scams that specifically target tourists, such as:

1. Rental scams: Watercraft, car, or motorbike companies may withhold your passport until you settle alleged damages. The solution? Never use your passport as collateral.

1. Inflated bar/club tab scams: Visitors may face exorbitant charges for drinks or encounter high cover fees.

1. City-tour scams: Often by drivers of the three-wheeled motorized rickshaws known as tuk-tuks.

1. Fake-gem scams

1. Internet romance scams

1. Financial scams: According to the State Department, scammers frequently impersonate U.S. citizens in desperate situations. Common scams include money transfers, targeting grandparents/relatives, offering free trips or luggage, and fraudulent work permits/job offers.

Stay vigilant to safeguard your travel experience in Thailand.

Thailand Travel Safety Guide – Other crimes

If you’re contemplating a visit to Thailand, and the thought of breaking local laws crosses your mind, think again. Crime doesn’t pay in Thailand.

Being apprehended for immigration violations—such as overstaying a visa—can lead to up to two weeks of confinement in overcrowded facilities with subpar healthcare and personal security.

The penalties for illegal drug-related offenses are severe, carrying lengthy jail sentences in harsh conditions, hefty fines, or even execution for possession, use, or trafficking.

Shoplifting can result in substantial fines and extended detention, followed by deportation. Additionally, the possession of counterfeit or pirated goods is a criminal offense.

Ensure a trouble-free visit to Thailand by respecting local laws and regulations

PROTECTING YOURSELF IN THAILAND

It’s easy to travel safely in Thailand if you follow a few simple guidelines. They include:

• Be taxi-smart

• Be careful with your words

• Be careful when you travel solo

• Hydrate and protect against the sun

• Be water-smart

• Lean on the embassy and consulate

• Buy travel insurance

Be taxi (and all transportation)-smart

Taxis generally provide a safe mode of transportation in Bangkok, but staying informed is key. Here are essential tips:

1. Watch the meter: Ensure that the meter starts at 35 Thai baht when you enter a taxi. If it begins at a lower amount, consider finding another cab. If in a pinch, and the taxi does not have a working meter, haggle the fare’s rate before getting in the car.

1. Avoid airport taxis: Opt for official airport pick-up areas, public transportation, or vehicles from limousine counters or your hotel.

1. Clearly state your destination: Communicate your destination clearly and slowly to the driver without engaging in unnecessary conversation.

1. Track your destination: Make sure to have an offline GPS map of the region you are visiting in Thailand and visibly track it when in a taxi or tuk-tuk. Reliable apps to use are Maps.me and Google Maps, just make sure you have the region downloaded on your app before venturing out. Using the app visibly alerts the driver that you are also keeping a watch on where you are going, to avoid any funny business.

1. Tuk-tuk considerations: Always negotiate the fare before boarding a tuk-tuk. The base rate is 50 baht. Be cautious if a driver quotes a lower fare, as they may steer you towards tourist traps.

1. Long-distance bus thefts: a lot of theft happens in many of the buses traveling quite a distance, typically the overnight buses. Bags in the storage compartment and the upper level are ransacked while passengers are asleep. Travel with a waist pouch to store money and travel documents if you must travel using this method.

1. Avoid becoming a motorcycle casualty: Don’t rent a motorbike unless you’re an experienced motorcyclist, way too many tourist experiences fatal and near-fatal accidents on the road from motorcycle recklessness.

Navigate Bangkok’s transportation with confidence by adhering to these guidelines for a secure and hassle-free experience.

Be careful with your words

Please make sure to note that freedom of speech in Thailand is not the same as it is in your home country.

Making a critical or defamatory comment about the royal family can get you up to 15 years in prison per offense. This includes intentionally ripping up Thai bank notes, which carry an image of the king.

Along those same lines, even criticizing a tourist venue can get you in trouble. A few years ago, an American working in Thailand wrote a scathing review about a resort in Koh Chang on Tripadvisor and ended up in jail for it. According to BBC, “he was subsequently detained and charged under Thailand’s strict anti-defamation laws. He was later released after issuing a public apology.“

The case was eventually settled, but not before the tourist spent two nights in jail and TripAdvisor had a first-of-its-kind warning label on the hotel’s page.

Be careful when you travel solo

Solo travel in Thailand is popular but can lead to dangerous situations, especially when alcohol or drugs are part of the mix.

If you’re a woman traveling alone, be aware that revealing or provocative clothing may be misinterpreted by Thai males. While it’s unfortunate, it’s best for women to wear modest clothing whenever possible, and carry a cover-up to throw on if taking a cab or walking down the street.

When traveling alone, exercise caution, stay near other travelers, and ensure friends or family know how to contact you.

Enrolling in STEP can help with access to the local embassy, also sign up for an app like bSafe (Android / iOS).

Hydrate and protect against the sun

Keep yourself hydrated by carrying a water bottle wherever you go. Upon reaching your destination, head to the nearest convenience store (7-Eleven is popular in Thailand), and stock up on as many water bottles as you can carry. Not only is it a safe practice, but it’s also a more economical choice compared to the minibar.

When it comes to tap water, never consider it even in a pinch, as it poses a severe risk of illness. Opt for bottled water or use a water filter to purify your drinking water. While ice is generally made from purified water, prioritize safety and avoid it as much as possible.

Moreover, the tropical sun can be relentless. It is highly advisable to wear sun protection whenever you step outside (except during a monsoon). Stay safe and enjoy your time with these essential tips.

Swim-smart

As highlighted earlier, numerous beaches in Thailand operate without lifeguards, making it important to exercise caution. Rip currents are a potential threat, and encounters with marine life are not uncommon.

For a safe swimming experience in Thailand, it’s crucial to be aware of underwater conditions, swim parallel to the shore, and refrain from drinking while swimming.

If these precautions pose challenges, consider opting for the pool at your resort for a secure and enjoyable aquatic experience. Prioritize your safety while making the most of your time in Thailand’s waters.

Lean on the embassy and consulates

The U.S. Embassy in Thailand and its consulates are vital resources for American travelers to Thailand. They can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care

• Help you report a crime to the police

• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent

• Explain the local criminal justice process

• Provide a list of local attorneys

• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support

• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home

• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Don’t know where to find the nearest embassy or consulate? The STEP program can help with that, and so can the State Department’s Smart Traveler app (Android / iOS).