7 mistakes I made whilst solo travelling in Bangkok (And How You Can Avoid Them)

Bangkok is a city that buzzes with energy, from its neon-lit streets and floating markets to its grand temples and street food stalls. But like any first-time visitor, I made my fair share of mistakes while navigating Thailand’s capital. To help you have a smoother experience, here are some of the missteps I took – and how you can avoid them.

1. Wearing Shorts in Temples

One of the biggest mistakes I made was assuming that casual attire would be fine for visiting temples. Many of Bangkok’s stunning temples, including Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, have strict dress codes. When I showed up in shorts, I was denied entry and had to scramble to find a sarong to cover up. This was not only an inconvenience but also an unnecessary expense.

To avoid this, plan your temple visits in advance and dress appropriately. Lightweight trousers or a long skirt will ensure you are always prepared, and covering your shoulders with a light scarf or shawl is a great way to respect local customs while staying cool in Bangkok’s heat. Some temples do offer clothing rentals at the entrance, but the quality and cleanliness might not be up to your standards. Additionally, dressing appropriately shows cultural respect, as temples are sacred places for Thai people.

2. Taking Unmetered Taxis

Bangkok’s traffic is infamous, and taxis can be a convenient way to get around – if you do it right. One of my early mistakes was hopping into a taxi without checking if the driver had turned on the meter. This led to a haggling session where I was overcharged, and I ended up paying double what a metered fare would have cost.

To avoid this, always ensure the driver turns on the meter before you start your journey. If a driver refuses to use it, politely decline and find another taxi. Better yet, use the Grab app, which works like Uber and provides a clear fare estimate before you ride. Grab also offers the advantage of cashless payments, so you don’t have to worry about carrying small change. Additionally, be cautious during peak traffic hours as you might find yourself stuck in gridlock. In such cases, it’s often better to take the BTS Skytrain or MRT instead of a taxi.

3. Falling for Tuk-Tuk Scams

Tuk-tuks are an iconic part of Bangkok, and I was excited to take my first ride. However, I quickly learned that some drivers offer “cheap” rides only to take you on a detour to overpriced souvenir shops. They often claim that certain temples are closed and instead take you to tailors or gem stores where they earn commissions.

If a tuk-tuk driver offers a suspiciously low fare, be wary. It’s best to negotiate the price upfront and specify your destination clearly. If a driver suggests a detour, politely decline. While tuk-tuks can be a fun experience, they are not always the most practical or economical mode of transport. If you want to try one, do so for a short, direct journey and agree on a fair price before hopping in.

4. Overpacking for the Heat

Bangkok’s heat and humidity can be intense, and I made the mistake of overpacking unnecessary clothes. I brought heavy fabrics that were completely unsuitable for the city’s tropical climate, making walking around uncomfortable.

Instead, pack light and opt for breathable, moisture-wicking clothing. Linen and cotton fabrics are ideal, and loose-fitting clothes will keep you comfortable. A good pair of sandals or breathable sneakers will also make exploring the city much easier. Since Bangkok has frequent rain showers, a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket can also be a lifesaver. Another essential item is sunscreen, as the sun can be unforgiving, especially when sightseeing outdoors for long hours.

5. Not Carrying Enough Cash

While Bangkok is modern in many ways, cash is still king, especially in street markets, food stalls, and some taxis. I assumed I could rely solely on my card, only to realise that many places didn’t accept it. This left me scrambling to find an ATM, often resulting in unnecessary withdrawal fees.

To avoid this, always carry enough Thai Baht, especially for small purchases. Exchange some cash at reputable exchange booths in the city, as they typically offer better rates than the airport. Having a mix of small and large bills is useful, as many vendors may not have change for larger denominations. Additionally, some ATMs charge high fees for foreign cards, so withdrawing a reasonable amount at once can save you money in the long run.

6. Skipping the Street Food

At first, I was hesitant about eating from street vendors, worried about hygiene. But avoiding Bangkok’s incredible street food was a huge mistake. Some of the best meals I had were from food stalls serving pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and grilled satay. Not only is street food delicious, but it’s also an essential part of the local culture.

To ensure you have a great street food experience, choose vendors that have a high turnover of customers, as this indicates freshness. Avoid stalls where food has been sitting out for too long, and stick to cooked-to-order dishes. If you have a sensitive stomach, start with mild options and gradually work your way to spicier dishes. Also, carrying hand sanitiser or wet wipes is a good idea, as not all food stalls provide napkins.

7. Underestimating the City’s Size

Bangkok is massive, and I didn’t realise just how spread out it was. I initially thought I could walk between attractions, only to end up exhausted. The heat and humidity made long walks even more tiring, and I wasted time and energy trying to get around on foot.

Instead, use the efficient BTS Skytrain and MRT systems to get around quickly. These public transport options are affordable, reliable, and help you avoid the city’s notorious traffic. Plan your itinerary wisely by grouping attractions in the same area together. For example, if you’re visiting the Grand Palace, also explore nearby attractions like Wat Pho and Wat Arun on the same day. This will save you from unnecessary back-and-forth travel across the city.

Final Thoughts

Travelling solo in Bangkok was an unforgettable experience, and despite the mistakes, I wouldn’t change a thing – each misstep was a lesson learned for the next time I am in Bangkok. If you’re planning your own trip, keeping these tips in mind will help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your adventure. Bangkok is an incredible city full of culture, history, and amazing food, and with the right preparation, your solo adventure will be much more enjoyable.