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We already knew a lot about travel in Thailand, having previously lived in Bangkok teaching English and visiting multiple times on holidays.
It’s a country that we know well, and have found it to be an easy place to travel to whether you’re alone, or as a family.
We thought we knew what to expect when travelling to Thailand with kids and felt prepared for the adventure, but that was until we got there and realized there were a few things we could have done to make it a bit easier.
Thailand is one of our favorite destinations in Southeast Asia, and so we want you and your family to fall in love with it the same way we did.
To help you out, and to make your trip run a little smoother, we’ve listed our top tips for traveling Thailand with kids so you can know what to expect and can plan ahead.
- Tips for Traveling to Thailand with Kids
- 1. Get organized and plan ahead
- 2. Get a direct flight to Thailand
- 3. Time it so you arrive in Thailand for your children's bedtime or before
- 4. Make your first day in Thailand a relaxing day with the kids
- 5. If you can, save visiting Bangkok until the end of your trip
- 6. Allow for several days before your children adjust
- 7. Only do one big activity a day in Thailand with the kids
- 8. If you have a toddler, take an umbrella stroller
- 9. If flying out of the old Don Mueang airport, save money for a taxi
- 10. For toddlers, make sure you check your hotel room has baby cots
- 11. Visit one or two cities in Thailand with kids
- 12. Pack homely comforts
- 13. Know it's rare to find a seat belt, let alone a baby car seat in Thailand
- 14. Ease them into Thai cuisine
- 15. Keep your children hydrated with plenty of water
- 16. Duck into places with A/C often
- 17. Stay at family-friendly resorts with entertainment
- 18. Have lazy beach or pool days or mornings / afternoons
- 19. Involve your children in activities they will enjoy
- 20. Be prepared for your children to be adored by the Thai people
- 21. Don't go to too many temples
- 22. Be mindful of elephant sanctuaries
- 23. There's no shame in going to a theme park
- Best Time to Visit Thailand with Kids
- Family Travel Planning Toolkit
- Thailand Travel with Kids Videos:
- Where to Book Thailand Tours?
- More Travel Tips for Thailand
- Save on Pinterest:
Tips for Traveling to Thailand with Kids
Below you will find our top tips for traveling with kids in Thailand to help you plan a trip to Thailand with kids with ease. Some of these tips will require you to plan ahead, so my first tip for you is…
1. Get organized and plan ahead
I highly recommend you book flights, accommodation and key tours you want to do beforehand. Not only does this save you money but it also means you will have more options available to you.
Not every hotel has a family room, and the good vacation rentals get booked up well in advance thanks to the boom of digital nomads.
If you want a good place to stay, and you want to ensure you are booked on tours, you need to plan ahead these days.
It also helps your kids prepare for the trip too. Knowing what’s going to happen can ease their anxiety and help them settle into this new experience in Thailand.
2. Get a direct flight to Thailand
We flew from Sydney via Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia (4-hour wait) and it was too long a journey for the girls and an unnecessary extra leg of travel each way.
Airports tend to be a stressful environment for kids if they are waiting around for too long. Most of airports don’t offer much in the way of entertainment, and there’s only so many toys you can pack with you.
Sorry Air Asia, but I think our “long haul” relationship with you is over. Yes, you were cheaper, BUT next time we will fly direct and pay the little bit extra to avoid the airport meltdowns.
You can find cheap deals on flights by searching on SkyScanner. Read more of our tips for finding cheap flights.
3. Time it so you arrive in Thailand for your children’s bedtime or before
We FINALLY checked in to our hotel in Bangkok at 2.00 am (Australian time). This was a little too much for the girls to handle and they were exhausted by the time we arrived.
With a little foresight, we should have timed it so they had time to unwind in the hotel before going to bed.
It also helps if they can sleep on the plane.
4. Make your first day in Thailand a relaxing day with the kids
Going to the crowded Grand Palace the morning after an extremely long day of travel and tiring flight was the cause of a meltdown in the most important temple in Bangkok.
The first day you will all be tired, not just the kids. Don’t rush straight into the itinerary and have an easy day into adventuring.
Use the first day as an orientation day. Go for a walk, try some local Thai food, and relax. You might also need to get used to the tropical climate!
5. If you can, save visiting Bangkok until the end of your trip
Most tourists tend to fly to Bangkok start the trip there. But you can also find direct flights to Phuket, which is a much more relaxing environment than Bangkok.
If you can, save Bangkok to the end when the kids have adjusted to Thai culture.
Bangkok can be a little too crazy for a young, fresh-to-the-country mind to absorb first up. Plus, you won’t have to carry all your “shopping purchases” around with you.
It’s also hot and humid in Bangkok, so you’ll find it easier if your kids have got used to the weather before spending a day exploring Bangkok’s attractions.
6. Allow for several days before your children adjust
One of the best parts of travel is experiencing new cultures, weather, and experiences.
But for kids, it takes time for them to get used to the new time, temperature and culture.
Don’t stress if they are still not used to it by the third or fourth day. Allow them at least a week to settle in.
7. Only do one big activity a day in Thailand with the kids
The easiest way to tire your kids out and cause a tantrum is to pack too much into your day. Don’t try to visit too many attractions in one day, pick one big one to visit and make it in the morning while they are fresh.
Relax more in the afternoon, play by the pool or go to a play park. Try to incorporate some of your “normal life” into your trip too so they don’t feel too much outside their comfort zone.
8. If you have a toddler, take an umbrella stroller
They will be lighter and easier to move around the crazy, uneven streets. They will also offer protection from the hot Thailand sun.
9. If flying out of the old Don Mueang airport, save money for a taxi
There are two airports in Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi airport (BKK) which is the main international one, and Don Mueang airport.
If you are flying into Suvarnabhumi then you don’t need to worry, there is a fast and easy to use Skyrail direct to the city, plus several buses.
But if you fly to Don Mueang, then save for a taxi to and from the airport in Bangkok into Siam because the public transport is long and a hassle. It is worth the spend.
You have to get the shuttle bus from the airport to Chit Lom sky train station, and then into the city, and then figure out where your hotel is.
Not all sky train stations have escalators, and don’t connect to every part of the city. If it’s a scorching hot day, or raining, it can be tiring with your kiddies and all your luggage climbing stairs.
For the rest of your time in Bangkok, the Skytrain (BTS) is awesome! Also kids love riding around in tuk-tuks. They are expensive but would be a fun first day activity.
Read more: A guide for getting around Bangkok
10. For toddlers, make sure you check your hotel room has baby cots
These are not always available in Thailand, so unless you co-sleep, be sure to request a rollaway crib beforehand.
It is not common and you don’t want to be chasing a toddler around the room at 4 am.
Read more: tips for travelling with toddlers
11. Visit one or two cities in Thailand with kids
Moving around a lot is too taxing for your children and you. I recommend you visit just one or two cities, and don’t try to pack in a full Thailand itinerary.
Kids cannot travel like backpackers, they need time to adjust and every time you take long-haul transport you can expect it to tire them out.
Pick a couple of places you want to visit, and stay for at least 5 days before moving on to somewhere else.
Check out this 10 Ideas For What to Do in Bangkok With Kids
12. Pack homely comforts
Most baby essentials are easy to find across the country, but if you or your child is fussy to a certain brand then pack enough supplies.
Having a few things from home that your child associates with home can help them feel at ease.
It can be as simple as a few snacks that they like, to their favorite toy or blanket, or even a familiar brand of soap.
It’s a simple trick to ease their anxiety.
13. Know it’s rare to find a seat belt, let alone a baby car seat in Thailand
Be prepared to wrestle your toddler the whole trip, or bring your own car seat if you are that concerned (not sure how you will go hooking it up though!).
If you are travelling in a van or a bus, you may be lucky enough to have enough space to pop in your pram with your baby strapped inside (what we did).
14. Ease them into Thai cuisine
You’ll be able to find Western food easily enough, but if you want your child’s taste buds to explore then we recommend Pad Thai or Pad See Ew as an easy way to start.
Other foods might be a little too spicy for your child’s stomach. You can ask for a dish to be not too spicy (nid noi) which means little bit in Thai.
15. Keep your children hydrated with plenty of water
7/11 stores are EVERYWHERE and you can buy bottled water for cheap.
Fresh coconuts, if they like the flavour, is great for hydration (and cheap too compared to here in Australia).
Read more: Tips for travelling with kids in the heat
16. Duck into places with A/C often
Shopping malls, 7/11 stores or even Starbucks are a great place to go for a little A/C cool down.
This can really help your child readjust to the heat and give them a break. Hot children can turn into cranky ones fast.
17. Stay at family-friendly resorts with entertainment
If you are staying in a resort hotel, they often have babysitting and kids club services. And the Thai’s are GREAT with kids. Use it once or twice for a break.
It’s not just your kids holiday, but yours too, so take some time for yourself.
18. Have lazy beach or pool days or mornings / afternoons
This is another easy way for your kids to relax and have fun.
If you plan to visit Phuket, you’ll find many white sand beaches for them to play on, or if you visit Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, many of the beaches there have shallow water that’s ideal for kids to paddle in.
Most beaches in Thailand have entertainment options – mostly kayaks and canoes for rent, or snorkel gear to go snorkelling. Some may even have inflatable toys or obstacle courses (Koh Samui is known for having these).
You can even take them to some waterfalls for an alternate break from the beach.
19. Involve your children in activities they will enjoy
There are plenty of fun things for kids to do. Kalyra loved doing the Thai cooking class with me and she was fascinated learning about preparing coconut and rice, and of course drinking Thai condensed milk tea and coconut milk sweets.
She also loved getting her hair braided.
20. Be prepared for your children to be adored by the Thai people
Thai people are so friendly and love children, so be prepared for your kids to receive a lot of attention. You will find the locals will want to pick them up, cuddle them, photos taken with them, and playing games with them.
This was actually a really great way for mom and dad to relax. It was like free babysitting and allows you a moment to breathe!
21. Don’t go to too many temples
There are many buddhist temples in Thailand that are world famous, such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, or Wat Pho in Bangkok, home to the famous reclining buddha.
But temples are not exactly exciting for kids. They might be tired after one or two.
22. Be mindful of elephant sanctuaries
Our kids love wildlife and so we always try to fit in some time to see the animals when we travel, but be mindful that in Thailand not all animal tourism is ethical tourism.
If you plan to visit elephant sanctuaries, do some research into an ethical one and make sure it’s safe for kids.
Some of the ones in Chiang Mai allow you to feed, bathe and play with the elephants, which gives me anxiety thinking about my little ones standing next to one of these huge giants.
You may find it better to do a wildlife safari or jungle walk in Khao Sok National Park instead, where you can observe but don’t get too close.
23. There’s no shame in going to a theme park
You might be thinking that you’re in Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and known for its incredible nature and unique culture, why spend it in an amusement park?
Thailand has a lot of great theme parks and amusement parks, and kids love them.
Dream World in Bangkok is a great theme park for kids and you could easily spend a full day there.
Best Time to Visit Thailand with Kids
Thailand is warm and sunny all year round, which makes it a popular destination for travelers.
But if your kids are not used to the heat, then a good time to visit would be in November, December or January.
This is high season in Thailand and is when there is the most amount of tourists, so while it has the coolest and most comfortable weather, it also has the crowds, so book in advance.
March, April and May are not great times to travel with kids as they are the hottest months of the year. It’s also when the farmers are burning their fields in the north which brings pollution across the whole country.
June to September (sometimes into October) is the rainy season. It won’t rain all day, but it will probably rain every day, which can make planning your activities difficult.
Family Travel Planning Toolkit
Want to have the ultimate toolkit for planning travel with kids? Click the image for immediate and free access to the toolkit.
Thailand Travel with Kids Videos:
Where to Book Thailand Tours?
When it comes to saving money and stress when traveling, you may want to plan ahead and book tours.
Get Your Guide is a place where you can find many Thailand tours and attractions tickets, which are operated by local tour operators and businesses.
They have no booking fees or hidden charges and are perfect for family travelers wanting to be organized.
You can pre-book tickets and skip the line at top attractions and cancel up to 24 hours before if you change your mind.
Some best-selling tours are below:
More Travel Tips for Thailand
Need more inspiration for your trip to Thailand? Check out these other guides…
- How to Plan a Trip to Thailand with Kids
- Things to do in Bangkok
- Ayutthaya Day Trip From Bangkok [A Complete Guide]
- Complete Guide to the Grand Palace, Bangkok
- 8 Unmissable Things To Do In Chinatown Bangkok (A Complete Guide)
- 10 Must-Visit Places to Try Thai Street Food in Bangkok
- 13 Places To Visit in Bangkok that offer Serenity
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Have you visited Thailand with kids? What tips can you share? Let us know in the comments.
Yes I have, we did Bangkok, Koh Samet, Ayuthaya and Hua Hin this time last year. We had a great time, no problems with anything. The boys did get very fed up of being pinched and poked by child obsessed Thais a few times. Bangkok was fine for us, as you say, we went early to the big attractions and came back to our guest house for a rest and a play in the afternoon. We also took them to Dusit Zoo, that was a winner. No problems with trains or transport at all, the boys loved them, even when we were delayed for 4 hours. They were Tuk Tuk crazy too.
The tuk tuks are so much fun for kids. Kalyra loved riding around in one.
You went to some lovely, quiet areas, except Bangers of course!!
We used to go to Hua Hin for the weekends when we lived in Bangkok, we loved it there.
Hi, I’m going to Thailand in October with my partner and daughter she will be 16 months when the time arrives.
We’ll be staying in The Kee resort in Phuket. You said Thai’s are great with Kids. People I know have said they wouldn’t leave there children there because of the corruption.. My travel agent said it’s fine but I’m starting to wonder now if it is safe enough?
Also can you drink the water in the hotel or just bottled water the whole trip?
Thanks
Oh no I wouldn’t be concerned about the Thais. Corruption is in every country and it’s on a government level mostly. The people are lovely. Sure things might go wrong, but they can anywhere. Generally families will be fine. It’s more the backpackers smoking dope that they target. I seriously wouldn’t worry about it. You’ll have to drink bottled water for the trip. The tap water is not safe for drinking.
Hi!
We booked flights to Thailand (3 weeks in December ’15).
By doing some research I ended up reading your Tips to travel with kids around Thailand. My twin boys are almost 3 years old.
Is traveling easier with our big stroller, 2 small strollers or Deuter backpacks to put your child in? We are thinking of spending 1 week in the north, 9 days on or near the islands and nationale parks in the south and ending around christmas in Bangkok. Can you give me some names of nice childfriendly (maybe with small children beds) guesthouses? Thank you for you help! Heleen
Hello. Have you done the trip with the big stroller? I am planning to be in south asia with my twins for 10 weeks and I was wondering if that was a good idea. They are 4 now
Hello. I am wondering about moving to Thailand with my 16 months daughter as a single mom. please help me with any suggestions about jobs, life style, place to live for 3 months, environments or any thing else. thank you!
I can’t really help you in regards to jobs. Some places that might be good to live are Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Koh Lanta
Hi
Love the blog and useful replies. I am planning to travel to Bangkok for work and want to extend it to a vacation withy family. However, some of my family are against us bringing our 8 month old due to her being too young for the vaccines. I have been researching and it appears that breastfeeding protects amongst many of these disease ie typhoid. Please let me know if you had your kids vaccines? Please advise.
Thanks
Lindsay
Our youngest was 17 months when we went to Thailand and she was not vaccinated as she was also too young. We didn’t have any problems. Just be extra cautious
thanks for your reply about vaccine. i was concern about that too. i love your blog.
Hi there
i usead to go to thailand many times.. i went to huahin phuket pattaya chingmai and bangkok with my dughter 8 and son 5.. but this may ill have my third baby… so he will be only 2months the time that we arrive.. ill give himthe vaccine for 2 mons then ill travel…but do u think its safe for him
thnx
Hi Caz, appreciate you sharing your experience. We are heading to Thailand in two weeks, Bangkok and Koh Samui. Our son is 15 months and while my hubby and I are well travelled, I am a little nervous about hygiene and sterilising for our little guy. Can you elaborate on your advice to be “extra cautious”?
How did you sterilize baby bottles and sippy cups from a hotel room?
What are the foods we should be most cautious of?
I know we can’t let our son eat ice, but are there any other big no no’s I should be aware of?
Instead of looking forward to the trip I’ve started stressing about these questions. Any advice would be great!
Thanks! 🙂
We take our girls there every year and love it so much!
You’re so right about doing the one big activity in the morning. I also find that if you’re staying somewhere with a pool, letting them swim in the morning before the activity is essential, otherwise they’ll nag all day until they do.
We swim between 8.30-9.30 then head out on adventure, making sure to be back by 3.30pm before the almost certain rain.
The heat of the day is best spent in shopping centres with them I find.
Also, if they are getting too tired and fractious, my magic wand tip is to take them for a massage. We all go together and within a couple of minutes they are sleeping in the chairs beside you while you’re relaxing to your hearts content. MAGIC! 🙂
Great tips Candice! We did let Kalyra swim early in the morning a couple of times to escape the day long nagging too!! Makes such a difference.
Love the massage idea- will try that one next time. We had a massage while Kalyra had her hair braided. She loved that and so did we
Great tips, I agree with all of these! Even though we don’t have any kids these are good overall tips for travelers! We were there in March which is the hottest month, and boy was it! We were at 7/11 every hour for either water or a Chang! We landed at 945 Bangkok time so we went to bed at midnight and were fine when we woke up, after the 21 hour worth of flights we were ready for bed! This coming December we are flying from Sydney to Bangkok and have that layover in KL but only 2.5 hrs but we also don’t have any kids…Great tips again!
We used to love 7/11 for our regular dose of air conditioned 5 minute comfort. That time of the year is stifling in Thailand.
I think the layover in KL is fine without kids. We would have managed it okay. It’s just far too long for them and for our sanity!
Agree 100% with all of your tips. Taking advantage of the time difference and doing activities in the morning when it’s cooler was key for us. Taking the afternoon off and snoozing or playing in the pool and then going out for dinner was plenty of “activity” for the rest of the day. We quite often ended up running out for takeaway or street food and eating out of plastic bags on our bed because even dinner was a bit much sometimes. Bring or buy a plastic bowl and spoon.
We loved the movies in Thailand. They were so cheap and a great way to cool off and have a break from walking around.
Yeah we did the Thai takeaway on the first evening when Kalyra started a meltdown on the streets.
time to go!!
The movies are so great in Thailand. We love the King’s song. Although sometimes they can be a little too cold
Such great tips! Bookmarking this page. 🙂
I have not travelled with my children to Thailand, but three quarters of these tips apply to adults as well, especially first time visitors to Asia.
These are great ideas for Asian travel with kids that could make the difference between a stressed out holiday and a pleasant peaceful one.
Agree with Jan, lots of really usefl tips that apply to adults here as well. Can’t agree enough though about doing trips/sightseeing etc in the mornings when the kids are fresh. Hot, sticky, grumpy afternoons are no fun for anyone.
Oh no those afternoons are the worst. You definitely want to be close by to a pool and a glass of wine!
Great Post. We (my son and i) are heading to BKK in under a week for a 4 month stint between thailand and Vietnam as part of our 12 rtw trip.
The pre-travel jitters have set in and the nerves of it all too but reading this post has been a great way to remember that practicality goes a long way. Its also reminded me of really how wonderful it will be…warts and all!
Thanks for re-inspiring me in my pre-jetting jitters!
Oh my pleasure! And thank you. This is exactly why we write posts like this to help others feel equipped and empowered to make their travels the best they can be. Enjoy your time, you will LOVE it!
Great to see you exploring the world with your family. Different challenges as they get older, but kids learn so much.
ciao
Simon
Huge list of great tips here. A lot of these are really good tips for ANYONE (not just families) going to ANY DESTINATION. Especially the tips about just relaxing and keeping your cool.
People often want to pack as much as possible into a trip. Moderation can be a good thing. Enjoy yourselves. Take your time.
Travel is a “leisure” pursuit. Be leisurely.
Holidays don’t always have to be fast-paced scavenger hunts… where you’re just rushing through a checklist and getting red faced in the process. (Though there is room for fast-paced travel in the world too… It’s just not for everyone, all the time.)
Yes. The Amazing Race is just for entertaining TV. It’s not fun in real life.
Great blog – thank you! I’m going with my son (5 years) and wondered if there’s a resort or area you would recommend or equally one to avoid? We are going for 3 weeks. I’m a single mum, it will be our first break – just the two of us 🙂
I would avoid Patong in Phuket. I really like Krabi, or Koh Lanta and I’d choose Koh Samuii over Phuket. If you go to Phuket I’d head more towards the north west part of the island. Enjoy it. You will be so relaxed!
i would like to know why would you avoid patong? i need to know cautions before i head there with my 16 month old
It just wasn’t a good fit for us. It’s full of Aussies and is really overcrowded and a big party scene. WE much preferred the quieter beaches
I came across your website through pinterest and I,m so glad I did.
My partner & I did a dream trip to laos, koh samui and bangkok after a year saving, it was my 1st long haul trip from Yorkshire (UK) where we live.
We loved it so much we vowed to go back but had conceived our daughter Amber on the beautiful island of Koh Chang. I adore that she originated from such a lovely place but had always wondered if we actually would make it back now we have an infant of 3.
The long flight especially fills me with dread, even I was grumpy towards the end even though we did it direct, so what you say makes so much sense.
I,m reassured you managed it with 2 kids no less and will be saving your post to keep me informed. Thanks for the time you put into your post its made our dream trip revisit now likely to happen.
Helen Shevels
Hi Helen!
Thank you for finding us. I love that your daughter was conceived in Koh Chang. I think you will have the perfect time going back. Travel with a 3 year old is not that bad. I think it’s ages 1-3 which are the most challenging. Once they turn 3 they find their feet and are more settled. The tantrums will still come but they are manageable, more so than the constant toddler chasing.
Thank you for your blog!
I am half Thai and American, my mother is Thai and we usually spend a lot of time in Bangkok with family during Jan through Apr. I haven’t been back since 2010 because my twins were born that year. Now that they are 3, we’re planning a trip for a couple of weeks in January 2014, and my partner and I are taking all 3 of our children (6 y/o boy and 3y/o twins). My Thai mother recommends that my children be immunized and to prepare them with a gastric distress treatment before we travel to Thailand. What do you think about this recommendation?
Also, with three children, we’ll be renting a microbus type vehicle to be able to fit the whole family. I’m hoping that I’ll be able install their car seats in those types of vehicles with either seat belts or carseat hooks.
Had I seen your blog before, I would have booked a direct flight, but we’re taking EVA and the stop over is in Taipei with an hour layover. So, hopefully they’re ready to travel there and meet their cousins, more so, am I ready to take them..!
Michael
Hi Caz,
this is a great blog!
our daughter will be 3 in September and I have been wanting to take her backpacking since she was born! We are considering a month- 6 week trip to Thailand and Vietnam in December/Jan ……or maybe Thailand/Malaysia would be keen to get in touch with you for some advice!
thanks
Cat
No worries. Any of these destinations would be great. We don’t know a lot about Malaysia, but certainly love Thailand and Vietnam. 3 is a great age to travel with kids as well
Hi Caz,
Enjoying your site very much, tnx!
Planning my trip w/ husband & 2 kids (3 and 5) starting next week – for 4 weeks! First 3 nights in BKK are booked…nothing else yet. Have some ideas though about the jungle, but still not sure which beach/island to go.
Deciding between Krabi, Ko lanta, ko samui (only because of weather) and Hua Hin (even ko samet as we will prob go twice to a beach place). Like to go right after our stay in BKK. Do you have recomendations on where to stay in Krabi or Ko Lanta? Love your picture of Ko Lanta beach – we like relaxed places – bit lay back – not too cultivated, but also do like to run in some other people and may be have a choice where to eat…and snorkling. Sorry for long message…
I think Ko Lanta is the perfect place. It has everything that you just said you wanted. I don’t know of many places to stay though as we stayed several years ago and just lobbed up to some bungalows on the beach. I can’t even remember the name or where they were. That was before blogging when I didn’t feel I had to record everything 🙂 Have a little search online and you should get lots of suggestions. Be sure to read the reviews and poke around a bit. I also love Railey’s Bay near Krabi. It’s actually my favourite place in the world. It’s much quieter, very laid back a little isolated, but has enough people around and choices of places to stay and eat. My dream place to stay there is Rayavadee. It is number one on my bucket list. May be some time before I pull that off 😉
Wonderful blog! So glad I found it through Pinterest. We have been contemplating a trip to Thailand for a while now but are terrified to make the flight(s) from the US to BKK with a 3 and 1 1/2 year old. Any suggestions on what time of year to travel to Thailand to best enjoy the country with little ones? I feel once we nail down the time of year then we can get to planning the rest!
Thanks!
I’m so sorry Daniela, I’ve only noticed your comment and question now. The best time is between November- Feb. Dec and Jan will be pretty busy. April is incredibly hot so you might want to miss that month. The rest of the year will be the rainy season, but its not too bad, usually a big downpour once a day
Excellent blog and very informative. I have just returned from my first trip thailand, 5 nights in pattaya and 2 in bangkok for a bucks party with 5 other late 20’s males. After returning home I spoke with my wife about going for a family trip with the 2 kids (1 aged 6 and 1 aged 1) would you recommend bangkok for 10 days or break it up with somewhere else?
I loved bangkok when I was there and 2 nights was nowhere near enough
Cheers
I would say break it up with something else when you have the kids. I think Bangkok is just too crazy for them. A trip to the islands will give your kids a bit of calm and beach fun
hi , what wonderful tips . My fiance and are getting married in Thailand and taking our kids along for ceremony and holiday i hope its safe for them and should i vaccinate 5 year old daughter , what meds can take along ?
Hi Margo! What an amazing place to get married. I’d check with your doctor in regards to the vaccination and medication. I’d hate to tell you the wrong thing!
awesome thank you for the feedback , i will ask our travel agent to get as much info as possible with regards to foods , allergens etc i am so excited about this vacation 🙂
Hi there, Thanks for all the great tips! We’re thinking of taking our 1.5 yo to the north and are considering driving ourselves around… do you have any tips on transportation rentals? Have u ever ridden a motorbike with your baby, like the thais do??? Thinking of busing out of BKK to someplace more peaceful then renting from there…? Your thoughts? THANKS!
Hi Kristen,
We rented a car in the Chiang Mai and drove in the north. It was fine and the roads weren’t overly crowded. Great way to see a different side of Thailand. This was pre-kids and with another couple. I don’t have many tips as my friend organized the rental through his friend who owned a guest house. It was pretty simple and cheap. I haven’t put my kids on a motorbike and don’t think I’d have the stamina to do it. I know others who have and have’t had a problem.
Hello,
me and my husband are planning to travel to Thailand (Phukhet), with our 16 month old girl, and I’m wondering if you could answer a few questions? Are there a lot of mosquitos, should we take a strong repellent with us? Did you, or anyone you know had any problems with the food, our little one is quite adventures and likes to eat weird food, we would like how possible will that be.
Thank you very much in advance
Micaela
Hi Micaela,
There will be lots of mosquitos so take some repellent definitely. We’ve never had problems with the food, but I’m sure others have, just like they do in their own country. Generally, its pretty safe. There’s plenty of cockroaches for sale at the markets, your daughter will love!! 😉
Thank you very much for your answer. I have one more, is malaria very common?
No not in most parts of Thailand. Only if you go way into the jungle
Hello Caz,
Love the site!
My husband and I are about to head off to Bangkok for Christmas with our 4 year old and 2 year old. We’ve hired an apartment for our 4 week stay and can’t wait to get there!
Some nights we’d love to go out (as a little holiday for us) but we’re struggling to find a babysitting service – and wondered if you had any advice or suggestions?
Thanks very much for all the great travel tips!
Best
Buffy
Unfortunately I don’t know anything about baby sitting. I know how much a night out is needed for the parents!! Perhaps you can contact some of the hotels/resorts, as they often provide baby sitting services, so they may know of reputable companies to contact. Let me know how you get on
hi!
Great post, thanks! Really helpful.
We are going to koh samet for three weeks with our baby, which will be almost 5 months when we arrive (going Nov 21st-dec 12th).
Do you have any tips regarding packing? We’re planning to bring our car seat, BabyBjorn, a stroller (light&easy), a floating west and travel bed. We’re bringing some uv-suits, sun hats etc, but I am really unsure about how much clothes to bring otherwise. Do you have any thoughts? Are there any essentials you think we are missing?
Appreciate it if you reply:-)
I would reconsider the car seat. I’m not sure how you are planning to get around, but most Thai transport don’t even have back seat belts, so you wouldn’t even be able to attach the car seat. Unless you are travelling in a pre-arranged private car. That’s the challenge with Thailand you have to travel with the kids on your lap- it’s scary, but you get used to it. Try to limit the clothes to save on packing, laundry is pretty cheap in Thailand so you can easily wash what you have. I think you have it covered apart from that. The baby bjorn is a must!
Hi CAZ,
Very nice tips for Thailand Vacation with Kids. I am planning to go with my Family. Your post very helpful for me and I am going to follow those tips. Thanks for sharing thoughts.
Thanks,
Henry
Such an informative post! Heading to Thailand in May with my 5 year old and found this very helpful. Thanks!
Love this blog! The information on this site is better than any lonely planet guide. Thanks!
This summer, we’ll visit Thailand for the 1st time. Our kids (6 and 8) will also fly for the 1st time (14 hours flight from Belgium to BKK). Really exciting!
This is my proposal for our round trip:
1. Kanchanaburi (first relax around the bridge over the river), then Jungle Rafts (floating hotel) 2. Khao Yai national park, 3. Chiang Mai, 4. Railay Bay (thanks for the tip, love Rayavadee too, but it’s a little bit too expensive 😉 ), 5. Bangkok
Did I miss something? I saw some info about Malaria and Jungle… is Khao Yai a risk? If so, I can leave it out.
All the best,
Erik
You’re itinerary sounds great. Good combination of mountains and island life. I’m not too sure about the malaria risk for Khao Yai. It’s usually only deep in the jungles up north, but I would check that with your doctor, or you can probably find out online.
Enjoy your trip, it will be amazing!
P.S One day we’ll enjoy a stay at Rayavadee- I’m determined!!
Remember last year? We’ve had all kinds of questions about Thailand. And you have helped us! Thanks to your blog and some other info, we discovered paradise! Included, you may find a movie we made from our trip through Thailand. http://youtu.be/sNqEgWS2kL0
Keep up the good work!
Erik
Hi, were traveling to Phuket in April with our girl, she’ll be 15 months then. I am a little worried as I am pregnant with number 2 and will be 23 weeks then. We’ve tentatively booked a seat for her on the plane, although to an extra $900! Debating whether to do it or not but I think we should! My hubby and I have been to Thailand 2 times before so it will be a very relaxing holiday and a little bit of shopping! Do you have any tips for me? Nervous! aha
I think you should be fine. Just talk to your doctor to make sure and be very careful of what you eat. It will be very hot in April so something else to think about. We honeymooned in April and I think it’s one of the hottest I’ve ever been. It’s a great place to take it easy so you should be okay. But do check with your doc.
i know that american airlines charge a seat for extra if you want a big leg room for you and your child. but other airline like qatar are nice to move you to big leg room seat at no charge. we tried air france and other airlines other than american, they are nice for moms to move up to big seat if no one sits there. i hope this helps.
hi!
Great post, Really helpful. Highly informative!!
We are gonna be travelling with a 3 month old and with another friend who would be 5 months pregnant. We are planning to do a Mumbai(India) – Krabi – Bangkok – Pattaya – Mumbai from the 15th of May for around 20 days. I need to know how would the heat and mosquito situation in these places. While we haven’t booked a 5 star hotel, the accommodation seems pretty. Should i be worried about anything else too ??
Take care,
Riaz
Helpful tips. Thailand and generally big cities in southeast asia aren’t dangerous. I have been working and living here in Thailand with my family for 3 years and we have never felt unsafe. I’ve been working and living here in Thailand for 3 years and I’ve never felt unsafe. I guess it’s just a matter of exercising caution and using common sense.
Thanks for a great blog that I am just discovering. We live in Nepal with our two girls (3 year old and 1 year old) and are trying to plan a quick get away April 10 for about 9 days. Am I a bit late in planning this, I wonder? We were thinking about Koh Samui and staying in a resort with pool for kids, playground, yeah, maybe even a kids club. Do you have any good recommendations on resorts or places to go (maybe instead of Koh Samui that seems to be quite booked)? Thanks for your help:-) Ingrid
You could try Koh Lanta or Phuket, but if you go to Phuket go to Surin or Bang tao Bay
Another great article! Thailand is November, after Japan, China and Cambodia on our upcoming ten month rtw trip and you really helped me picture the day to day of it. We are doing BKK, Chiang Mai and Ko Lanta in one month, so lots of stopping. Then we will be off to a month in Sri Lanka. Thank you for your great site and Pinterest boards!
Your welcome Michelle. Enjoy Thailand and the rest of your trip in Asia.
Thanks for sharing such usefull information. We are going to Thailand this month (5 days in Krabi and 2 days in Bangkok) with my 16 month old girl. I would greatly appriciated if you could give me some more information as mentioned bellow:
1. Should we take my girl on a speed boat to Koh Phi Phi?
2. Is there any non-spicy food for baby? such as: steam rice/porridge with omelette or something like that because we dont want to bring too much jarred food.
Thank you so much!!!
hi, i also will be bringing 16 month old. i was told to take a ferry from phuket to ko phi phi, not speed boat. because of bumpy ride. im sure there are non spicy food. maybe order plain white rice from your main lunch dinner plate , and ask for non spicy chicken.
Hi!
Great blog with some really good points about travelling with small children. We’re planning a 3-week trip to Thailand in June/July with our 1 year old son and I was wondering if you could answer a few of my concerns. We went there 2 and 3 years ago before we became parents and (of course) fell in love with the country. I know that there is some rain during these months, but as I understand it usually comes within shortterm spans in the afternoon, which I’m sure is no problem. We’re planning on flying (direct as you also recommended) from Oslo, Norway to Bangkok and then going directly to Phuket where we will book about 4 days at the Kata beach, and we’re also thinking of going to Koh Lanta and perhaps one more place (but no more as we don’t want to move around too much). We’ll decide on where to go on from Kata after we get there and figure out how the little one agrees with the heat and humidity.
We’re thinking og bringing a cross country child carrier (he’s starting to be a bit heave for the baby bjorn) and also a lifewest for him (or do they have small ones available that we can rent?). We’re also not sure of how much food (porrage and dinner) we should bring, or whether these things are available at the local stores?
Do you recommend any specific hotels or places to go on from Kata that work well with children? And are there any other concerns we should have with taking the little one as opposed to when it was just the two of us?
Thank you for any advice and pointers you can throw in my direction. There sure is a bit nervousness attached to travelling with him for the first time, compared to the worry-free trips that we have enjoyed in the past. But as you apparantly also set out to do, we will not let that stop us from continuing to explore Thailand and hopefully many more beautiful places and countries in the years to come. Cheers!
Hi Tobias,
We didn’t take any food with us over for our daughter. We did have 2 tins of formula for her though. She ate the Thai food, or western food from the restaurants and was fine. She was sick for a couple of nights but I’m not sure what caused it. I’d bring your own life vest- just to be sure.
I don’t know of any hotels in kata for families, but there are plenty there, it just depends on your budget. IT is daunting for sure, but you will have a great time!
Hi
Thanks for writing such a great blog.
Me my wife and my 2.5yo daughter are travelling to thai in mid may. 4 days in phuket 4 in koh samui and 2 in bangkok patong.
Is patong a good place to stay with the family and does my itinerary contain beachea shopping and nightlife as this is my first time.
Any suggestiona of a nice itinerary and good hotels ?
Hey Sameer,
For families better beaches to stay at are Karon, Kata and Surin. Patong is pretty full-on but those other beaches are within reach but quieter.
On Koh Tao Island they offer childcare for infants to teenagers! 🙂 kindergarten called Koh Tao Childrens Day Garden and have also babysitting services! Very useful if parents want to example go Diving together, enjoy night life etc.. 🙂 and this is good to know if planning staying long term.
Hi, Great tips!! I have been to Thailand with my wife, but now we go back with 2 families. In total 5 kids from 2 till 7 yo. We start in Bangkok and will move to the islands. We try to avoid the western (expensive) hotels. Do you have suggestions for places to stay in Bangkok or a great website to get info from?
Thanks!!
Hi Willem,
Here is our comprehensive city guide to Bangkok which includes suggestions on accommodation: https://www.ytravelblog.com/things-to-do-in-bangkok/
Enjoy!
Great blog and great tips. Just take it easy is good for evrybody. Flying direct is a good tip, but sometimes too expensive. For us (AMS-BKK) a direct flight is at least 40% more expensive. Starting to fly in the morning instead of the evening gives you a headstart though. For dutch speakers: take a look at our website (“travelfamiliy”), or the excellent website http://www.verrereizenmetkinderen.nl.
Love the blog! I was actually looking for a bit of advice. I’ll be in Thailand in a couple of months time with my 3 year old. He’s well used to budget travel, having been to over 20 countrieson a shoestring budget already! We will be in the North of Thailand for a few weeks and then have 5 days to spend at a beach on the way to malaysia. We’re thinking the East coast due to the weather in the Andamans at that time of year, although I have always wanted to visit Koh Lanta . Have you ever been to any islands in the rainy season? If so would you recommend against it? Should be just stick the the east coast? What beach on what island would you recommend for young kids and parents that like a quiet, a laid back vibe, no crowds and beautiful beaches?
The islands can be hit an miss in the rainy season. You must just get daily downpours that don’t last long or you could have torrential rain all day. It’s hard to say. It depends on what risks you want to take. Research it a little more. I like Koh Lanta the best for the quiet laid back vibe. ‘m not sure of the best beaches though. Its’ been years since we’ve been there
Yikes – just realised we’ll actually be there at the end of THIS month – how did it get to be June already??
We are planning on going to Thailand for my 30th in jan 2016. We have a 2 year old little boy. Where is the best family place to visit? I have been to Bangkok and Phuket before but didn’t find it family orientated. Mainly ladyboy bars and dancers etc.
Hi Natasha, if you go to Phuket you need to get out of Patong. Karon Beach and Kata Beach are much better options for families in Phuket.
Other than that we love Koh Lanta and Krabi. Also Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui is ok too. Enjoy 🙂
Koh Samui or Koh Lanta or Krabi would be good. Or Chaing Mai if you like the mountains.
Great blog, me and my partner are hoping to go travel for 2 months with our 3 year old boy, but were wondering how much budget we should allow for?? And best places to go?
We are in the process of planning a trip to Thailand for July/August 2015. We have a while to organise as we want to make sure we’re well organised.my husband and I will be travelling with a 16 year old and a 10 year old. Chiang Mai has been recommended to us, but we’re hoping to travel for a few weeks so will want to travel around. My husband wants to visit kanchanaburi too. How easy is it to travel across the country? Any recommendations would be great. We like animals, beauty spots, architecture etc)
Thank you x
Thanks for this tips. We have a little son and it is not easy to travel with him, he is too curious about everything. Hopefully this tips will help:)
Awesome blog! My husband and I have travelled to Thailand 3 times before however our upcoming trip in feb 2015 will be very different as we will have our 8 month old son with us. We roll be staying in Bophut on Koh Samui and was wondering if there are any activities or tours you can do with a baby?
Also with regards to food for bubs what would you recommend as I’m presuming he would have old been started on solids for a couple of months?!?
Thanks so much
Yes. He will be on solids. He should still be on forumla, or still breast feeding. If you are using formula just take what you need with you to ensure you don’t get stuck. The tours just depend on what is on offer and how comfortable you feel I’d research it before hand and find out how suitable it is for kids. Bear in mind safety won’t be as big a deal as it is in the western world.
We are going in February with our 3 kids! My daughter has Many food sensitivities that include gluten, msg, food colorings. She gets horrible headaches and stomach pains. Can you offer any advice for our dining? Thanks !
I would carry cards that have the dietary issues written in Thai. Find out what the Thai words are for the issues and have them written down. That way you can show it to the waitress and clearly show your needs. I think Thai curries should be okay, but I don’t want to say that in case it’s not.
Hi, we are travelling to Thailand in March next year with our 4 year old. We have both been before and are visiting Bangkok, Krabi, and the quieter side of Phuket and will be looking to re-visit some of the fantastic snorkelling spots that we done before. I’m looking forward to it but am paranoid about anything happening to my little boy Oliver, particularly in the reefs where I am a confident swimmer but by no means a match for a shark. Last time we went I couldn’t wait to go swimming with the black tips off Phi Phi so am quite comfortable with the wildlife but now I have more important things to think about. Any tips would be much appreciated as my partner is beginning to think I’m loosing the plot with questions like “should I take a diving knife just in case?”…..I think she may be right!!
I think wait until you get there and see how you feel. Ask around to see what other families there think – if they’ve been snorkelling. Ask the guides. I don’t think you need to take a diving knife though. Look at the facts and statistics – have they had incidents before where sharks have attacked people? Are there any sharks bigger and hungrier than black tips.
I totally understand your fear and when we become parents it goes to ridiculous levels and often illogical. I freak out whenever my kids go near the window of a high rise building, even though logically I know they can’t fall out of it. It’s truly insane.
But, if you just try your best to calm those fears down so you can see the facts and get a better assessment. If it’s too overwhelming for you and you just don’t want to risk it then don’t feel bad about it. That’s still a fair choice. You could maybe even split up for the day, one go snorkelling while the other stays behind on the beach and then perhaps switch the next day.
Btw, we’ve just had the past five months in the Top End of Australia and I almost didn’t come because I was so scared of the crocodiles and my girls getting too close to the river bank in a moment when I my hawk eye watch faltered. I would seriously wake up in a sweat at night over it. Alas, we’ve had no problems and we’ve had the most amazing time. I’m so glad I didn’t let me crazy Mumma bear fear get in the way.
Hope that helps
Great blog. Really great. Heading to Natai Beach for a friend’s wedding at Jivana Villa (chaCHING!) this Apr w our 15mth old. We are seasoned budget travellers, preferring to arrive, check the scene and find a nice but cheap place but have resided to the fact that a reservation is probably a good idea with the baby. Will budget accomodation be doable or do you really need to stay in bigger, more expensive hotels. Does anyone know of any nice but cheap places on or near Natai Beach? What about leaving the babe with someone for the day to go diving? What about live-aboard tours? Know of any for families with small kids? Is it even advisable to try to do one with babe? Thanks for any tips!
I think budget accommodation will work okay. As long as it’s safe and comfortable and you’re okay with it. It might be a good idea to get a reservation just so it is one less thing for you to worry about. You’d have to ask around for baby sitting options. I’m sure there are some there just be very diligent with checking credentials etc. Usually the big resorts will have that as a service. I don’t know of any diving tours that would cater for kids. It’s not likely, but you never know.
Hi Caz and Craig!
Your information is so helpful, not to mention your family snapshots amazing and getting me so excited to bring my two children to Thailand this March 2015 for 2 1/2 weeks.
Can you suggest YOUR favourite beach and resort for us to go to in the south for 5-7 nights. We really want to swim, explore the area, sleep well at night. I’m thinking Railay Beach in Krabi…but there are an overwhelming number of beaches and blogs to try to get a handle on. Please help steer me into making the right choice.
With thanks and appreciation,
Charlotte
Railay Beach is my favourite beach. I do also love Koh Lanta I can’t recommend any resorts though as it’s been years since we stayed there and we only stayed in guest houses and backpacking places.
Hey there… Great Blog… I have been to Thailand twice and trained in Mauy Thai… Its always been my dream to take my son there, He will be 4 in March.. Its odd because I have never had travel anxieties! but now a parent its a weird change! I am thinking Koh Lanta as its chilled, has yoga for my sister and a gym for me to train.. My main anxieties are travelling down from Bangkok with my son, I was thinking of getting a flight to Samui? then a boat across? Anyone else done this with a child? Also accommodation wise previously I’d just rock up wherever, but with my son I want somewhere pre-booked.. We are going for 3 weeks. I haven’t decided on Koh Lanta and also looking at Koh Tao and Krabi.. We are going April-May.. so I know it will be super hot.. Whats the best way to get down to the islands with a child? Pre-book? just turn up?
Thanks
Sorry.. meant Krabi Airpot…
I wouldn’t get a flight to Samui as it’s not in the same ocean as Lanta and Krabi. I’d fly to Phuket and then get either a bus or boat. With a child it might be best to prebook something – it’s just one less thing to worry about.
Hi Laura, we got a flight from Bangkok to krabi and then got a taxi van to Koh lanta. Air Asia flights were cheap. There were loads of families holidaying in Koh lanta and you are close enough for a day trip to Koh phi phi.
Hi, I’m a sole parent looking at taking my 10yr old daughter to Thailand in January for 2 weeks. Starting of in Bangkok-Kanchanaburi-chumpom-surat thani – khao sok Bangkok. Do you think it is safe to travel by train,bus? I was thinking of hiring a driver but appears to expensive. Can anyone give advise please.
We did a month of travelling in Thailand with our 3 children aged 8, 4 & 2 back in February 2014.
We would advise to book accommodation in advance (we were there in high season) as the last thing you want to be doing is driving around desperately looking for a suitable room with kids in tow.
In 4 weeks we covered a lot of ground visiting Koh Lanta, koh phi phi, koh Samui, koh phangan, kanchanaburi, koh samet and Bangkok. With 6 of us in our group we used private mini van hire to get around the country. The kids didn’t mind the long road trips and we could all stretch out and relax with out disturbing anyone.
I have to say we did have a few crazy experiences with the Thai peoples interest in our children. The children and especially our youngest son who was 2 at the time were constantly touched through the streets of Bangkok, photographed and filmed with camera phones in markets and malls where ever we went. It did get a bit creepy at times.
7/11 shops were great for picking up yogurts and snacks for the children for days out and long journeys.
Hi there! I am so grateful to have found this blog! My husband and I are planning on travelling to Thailand for 6-12 months with our two children, aged 3 and 1 1/2. A major concern is how we are going to get around with them! We are not sure whether we should bring a double stroller or kid carriers. Keep in mind that we intend on spending anywhere from 1-3 months in each location. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Hard choice as you are going for so long, you don’t want to be carrying them all the time. I wouldn’t worry about a stroller for the three year old. And possibly not worry for the younger one as the footpaths aren’t that great and they can be a hassle to lug around. Although if you are staying in one place for awhile it might be worth it. Maybe just take a small, cheap one for the little one and then if it becomes too much of a hassle you can just leave it behind.
Hi – We will be traveling to Thailand with a 5/6 mo old. We live in Asia, so I don’t really care to spend too much time in the big city of Bangkok, but I do want to fly in/out of there. Any recommendations for a small town near by (have been to Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam etc. so I don’t feel like I’m dying to see every stupa etc.) just want some sights and some relaxation. Thanks!!!
I really liked Ayutthaya https://www.ytravelblog.com/ayutthaya-thailand-a-bike-and-boat-tour-of-the-royal-kingdom/ although it is a place for temples, but very chilled and not too far from Bangers.
Thank you for the helpful information! We have never been to Thailand and we have a 1 year old and a 3 year old. We are most concerned at this point with car seats and how to travel with small children once we are there. It sounds like you didn’t use car seats when you were there then? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Yeah no car seats. They don’t really have seat belts so you couldn’t strap in a car seat anyway. You just have to sit them on your lap!
Thank you for a very well organized post. Very informative! Do you have any specific experience with Krabi?
We have been to Krabi many years ago and loved it. But that was before we had kids, so can’t recommend from the family angle so to speak. But it was one of our fave spots in Thailand and I’m sure it’s still great.
We will visit Thailand on the second week of February 2016. My 8 year old son wants to visit elephants show and wants to experience elephant ride. Can you suggest places in Thailand near Pratunam area with elephant show
Hi guys. Thanks for the helpful post. We are about to leave for a 2 week stay in Koh Lanta/Krabi with our 2 year old. I was all cool with everything until I started reading up on the roads there, and now I am very anxious about getting into taxis at Phuket, transfers here and there etc. especially since they don’t care for safety seats. What can you tell me about this? Also, we have changed our plans so that we take ferries more than roads. Are the ferries ok in January? I am a bit of a worrier unfortunately!
I´m considering going to Thailand for two weeks alone with my 5 year old daughter – would you consider it safe for me, as a single female, to travel alone with my 5 year old daughter? (Bangkok and Islands)
Hubby and I will be taking the kids in April. Youngest will have just turned one. Should I consider taking long life cows milk over for her? We are just staying in Patong for 8 nights.
It might be an idea Cassie. They’re not big on milk in Thailand. I’d say being in Patong, they’d have it in some of the stores but it might be pricey and you may want to take some just in case.
We had a great trip in Thailand with the 2 year old, though he mostly ate fried rice.
The biggest thing we noticed was the improvement in his swimming, 3-4 swims a day will do that!
This is a great article! We spent six months living in Bangkok last year with our two-year-old daughter and she absolutely loved it. The Thai people are so accommodating when it comes to children and we felt very welcome everywhere we went. Also, if you have a fussy eater then 7eleven is your best friend. They stock everything from fresh muffins to mini pizzas to fresh fruit and everything was just so cheap! Thailand is an awesome destination to take kids.
I am thinking of flying to Thailand with my 2yr old twin girls do they allow u to fly as a single parent
Yes of course!
Hi Caz,
I am planning to visit Phuket and Bangkok with my 1 year daughter in the month of May so wanted to know is there much to do when we have an infant with us and is it possible to do the day tours (Phi Phi Island, James Bond Island) with the infant.
Any other tips to be included in itinerary would be of great help.
Yes it is. Our daughter was 17 months so not far off 1 year. Totally doable. Just hold them close to you while on the boats!
Thank you so much for the tips! My husband & I have been twice to thailand in our child free days but now we have a little one and would love to share the experience with her. She is 14 months at the moment but we are looking at going next year when she is 2ish. How did your kids handle to heat? I am concerned she might get heat stroke.
They were fine. We live in Australia so the kids are used to heat. Just take precautions and probably don’t go in April – the hottest time of the year.
Hi caz,
I am thinking about traveling to Thailand in October with my almost 3 year old girl, I’ve been thinking about this for over a year and I’m getting a little fed up now of not making it happen. There our tons of places I’d like to visit, but I just don’t know where to start, I don’t know how to even begin to plan and how far ahead to plan, could u please help me? I wish to travel around Thailand for 6 weeks roughly.
Would a night train be safe with just me and a little girl. I dont want to be staying in luxury hotels because budget is tight and I think we would get as much out of it. I am just so stressed and I don’t think this trip will ever happen if I go on like this! Haha
Jess X
Hey Jess,
I am also debating travelling to Thailand with my two girls and have concerns about safety and budget! Curious for when you are hoping to travel, and if perhaps are two heads together are better then one! feel free to msg. [email protected]
we are a family of 6
we have four boys
twins that are 10
one that is 8 and one that is 6
is june and july too hot to travel to thailand ????
what safe and clean adventure places to go and or to stay would you recommend for four active and curious boys in thailand ???
Great article with lots of useful tips.
When travelling with kids it’s always best to choose an already well developed places like Samui or Phuket.
Just so you know that there won’t be any bad surprises and the living standards are high.
We are travelling to Cambodia. Vietnam & Thailand in September with our 3.5 month old (due any day now!). Am just wondering if anyone has some hints/tips for us?
Thanks in advance, Renee
We are visiting Thailand in August with 3 kids ages 7,5,2. We are there for 10 days We do want to go to a beach what areas do you recommend
Thanks
Hi,I’m planing to take my 8 year old son to Thailand next april,and I was wondering if it’s necessary to have him immunization prior the trip?
It’s best to check with your doctor Aylin
Hi. I’m considering travelling to Thailand for an extended amount of time. Staying with only myself and my two daughters – 10yrs old and 2yrs old. We are Canadians, my oldest daughter and I are ginger and my youngest is Albino, so two redheads and shock white hair.. we probably look somewhat like our Canadian flag from skies view 😉
I’m concerned about drawing attention and the safety of my daughters traveling abroad. The furthest I have ever travelled is Mexico or Hawaii. I’m also concerned about not being aware of any special precautions I should perhaps be taking as a single mother with kids.. Any insight from anyone who has travelled abroad would be greatly appreciated!!
I’m going to travel to Kuala Lumpur with my wife and little daughter.
I wish to rent a car and travel with the baby (1.5).
Found just this article about car baby seats in Kuala Lumpur – http://kualalumpurcarbabyseat.blogspot.com/
Do you have experience travelling with the baby? What car rental companies worth to use? Which companies provide car baby seats? Is it safe to drive there?
Hi, Thanks for the lovely writing & reliving details. I have started feeling a bit better after reading this artical from you. We have a 10 month baby & he is going to be exactly an year old at time of travel.
1. Can you please suggest us placeses apart from BKK that we can travel with our kid. We have a plan for one week in Thailand AND we will start booking our tickets from day after tomorrow.
2. Also what all places we can visit in BKK that are more relevant for kids.
Thanks in advance
Akshat
[email protected]
+919886216516
I am planning on taking my one year old to Thailand to visit her dad who is there at the moment I’m really worried about the flight out there by myself! Do you recommend anything that will help or shall I try an go with my mum for extra support?
Hi Catrin, here are our tips on flying with kids: https://www.ytravelblog.com/tips-for-flying-with-kids/
Hi Caz,t
We are planning to go to Thailand for 3 weeks in April with our 6 months old daughter, but we don’t know where to start. Can you please help us?
Hi we are planning travelling se Asia and Oz and NZ from September. Last night i sacred myself reading about terrorism and shootings and road side bombings. I really want to go but dont want to put my son in any danger. I know anything can happen anywhere, but do you think il constantly be on edge or will i relax ?
Do you mean you read about it in these countries? I haven’t heard of anything happening like that in these countries. There are some areas of Thailand to avoid down near the border of Malaysia. If you don’t go there you’ll be fine. I’m sure you’ll relax. The world is much safer than the news likes to tell you
I like all the tips you had for traveling with little ones, mine will be just over a year when we are thinking of going. What beach is the most relaxing/kid friendly/beautiful? Also, what time of the year would be best? I was told around March was ideal time.
March is a good time although hot. April is the hottest time of the year. Might want to avoid that with kids. As for beaches, there are so many, it’s hard to answer that question. I’d look at Koh Lanta or Krabi
What a useful guide!! Thank you. We leave for Thailand in two days, so obviously now is the time to google ‘Thailand with kids’. Our flight is direct from London, but annoyingly arrives at 2am, so we’ll have to see how a 1 year old does time zones…so glad I found your blog!
Hi there- I am planning to spend about a month in Thailand with my husband and almost 2 year old, this summer. The month of July. I’m wondering if you’ve visited Hua Hin and if you think there is enough to do there to spend an entire month. We are just looking for a relaxing getaway from Beijing, where we live. Thank you!
We visited Hua Hin a couple of times on a weekend getaway when we lived in Bangkok. It’s nice. It was very quiet compared to the other beach destinations in Thailand, but I don’t think the beach is as nice as some of the ones you can get to. I’m not sure about there being plenty to do for a month. I wouldn’t choose to go there for a month, but it might be different for you so I can’t say for sure,. Koh Lanta is an island I’d recommend going to for a month for sure.
I we are travelling to Phuket with out two boys 7yr old and 16month old and just want to double check that we won’t need baby seat for our 16month old at all during our trip.
No. I wouldn’t worry about taking one
Thank you very much for the wonderful article. Making the desire to travel with the children to Thailand.
I especially enjoyed the picture of the cooking workshop 🙂
Hi!
My husband and I are about to embark on a 6 month global travel adventure with our three kids (daughter age 7 and twin boys age 9). We live in California and our first stop will be Japan, then China followed by Southeast Asia. Do you have any favorite beaches in Thailand? I’d love to find a relaxing beautiful spot to relax after two weeks of city life in Japan and China. Or if you have other favorite spots in Southeast Asia, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Thank you so much!
Lauren 🙂
I love Koh Lanta. It’s probably grown a lot since we were there but it still will be quieter. Koh Like is also wonderful but it is very far down near the Malaysian border
Hi, thanks for the article! A quick question – do you know if it is mandatory to have an international driving permit to drive in Thailand on holiday? Thanks! Penny
Hi Penny, yeah not sure about that. But probably a good idea. We have never driven anywhere in Thailand, always taken public transport.
Oh, I couldn’t agree with you more. Air Asia could be considered as the optimal choice for solo or young travelers with the tight budget, but when going with family for a vacation, we should fly with the traditional airlines with the non – stop flight. The long stopover at every airport will make children feel tired, especially with the transit time beyond 3 hours. Thanks for your post, very informative!
Hi, Caz! It seems like you and your kids really had a great time visiting here in Thailand. I’m glad you were able to go to a lot of places without too much stress. 🙂
My son is sixteen when we travel to Tailand is it worth taking him along to bungla rd at night.
Hello Caroline. Your tips are very helpful. It looks like you may have gone to Thailand in March.
Our jobs will not permit us to go to Thailand until June, a hot month indeed. I am concerned whether my 15 month old would be okay this time of year in such a climate. Any thoughts on this? Is it a terrible idea?
Thanks
April is the hottest time of the year so June should be fine.