Thailand scams to avoid
Nine scams that still catch visitors, and the simple way to dodge each one.
Thailand is a safe country to travel, and most people you meet are honest. A handful of well-known scams still catch thousands of visitors every year. Knowing them is enough to avoid them.
1. "The Grand Palace is closed today"
A friendly stranger near the palace says it is closed for a ceremony and suggests a tuk-tuk tour instead. It is not closed. The tour ends at gem or tailor shops that pay commission. Walk to the official entrance and check yourself.
2. The ฿20 tuk-tuk tour
Unbelievably cheap all-day tuk-tuk rides exist because the driver gets fuel vouchers or commission from shops. You will spend your day in showrooms.
3. Gem and suit "bargains"
Gems sold as a "government sale" or investment are almost always overpriced or fake. Do not buy gems you cannot value yourself.
4. Taxis that will not use the meter
Insist on the meter in Bangkok. If a driver quotes a flat price, get out and take the next one, or use Grab. From the airport, the ฿50 surcharge and tolls are legitimate.
5. Jet-ski and scooter damage claims
Rental owners claim you caused existing damage and demand large payments. Avoid beach jet-ski rentals, and film any scooter with the owner present before you ride. Never leave your passport as a deposit.
6. Bar bills and "free" shows
Shows advertised as free in nightlife areas can end with a huge bill. Check prices before you sit down and pay for each drink as you go.
7. Dynamic currency conversion
Card machines and ATMs offer to charge you in dollars or euros. It sounds helpful but uses a worse rate. Always choose baht.
8. Paid copies of the free arrival card
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is free on the official immigration website. Several look-alike sites charge a fee to submit it for you.
9. Tour packages that skip the park fee
Cheap island tours sometimes leave out the national park fee (฿400 for Phi Phi Leh) and collect it on the boat. Ask before you pay what is included.
Quick rules
- Be wary of anyone who approaches you first with a deal.
- Agree prices before any ride or service.
- Book tours and transfers through reviewed, fixed-price platforms.
- Keep your passport in your room safe, not with a rental shop.
Partner links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
Questions people ask
What is the most common scam in Thailand?
The "Grand Palace is closed" approach followed by a cheap tuk-tuk tour to gem and tailor shops.
Is it safe to rent a jet ski in Thailand?
Beach jet-ski rentals, especially on Phuket, are linked to damage scams. It is best to avoid them.
Do Bangkok taxis use the meter?
Official taxis should. If a driver refuses, take another taxi or use Grab.
Is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card free?
Yes. The official TDAC is free. Avoid websites that charge to submit it.