Travel Scams in Thailand to Avoid in 2025
Thailand is one of the most loved travel destinations in Southeast Asia, famous for its rich culture, tropical islands, and delicious street food. But like many popular tourist spots, it has its fair share of travel scams. If you’re planning your trip, especially if you're booking Thailand tour packages, it's important to be aware of common scams to avoid being taken advantage of. Staying alert can help you enjoy your holiday stress-free and make the most of your journey through this beautiful country.
Whether you're hopping between temples or heading to tropical getaways like Koh Tao Island Thailand, knowing what to look out for can protect your wallet and your experience. Most scams aren’t dangerous, but they can be frustrating, and some can be quite costly. So here are the most common travel scams in Thailand to avoid in 2025, and how to deal with them if they come your way.
1. The “Grand Palace is Closed” Scam
This is one of the most common scams in Bangkok. A friendly stranger will approach you near a popular tourist site like the Grand Palace and tell you it's closed for a religious event or royal visit. Then, they’ll offer to take you on a tuk-tuk ride to other places instead — often overpriced shops where drivers get a commission. Always check opening times online or ask an official at the gate before changing your plans.
2. Overpriced Tuk-Tuks and Meterless Taxis
Tuk-tuks are a fun way to get around, but if you don’t settle the price beforehand, you might get charged five times the normal rate. Similarly, some taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter and try to charge a flat fare that’s far too high. Always insist on using the meter, or better yet, use ride-hailing apps like Grab, which show prices upfront.
3. Jet Ski Damage Scam
This scam usually happens in beach destinations like Phuket or Pattaya. Tourists rent a jet ski, enjoy the ride, and then are told they caused damage when returning it — even if they didn’t. To avoid this, inspect the vehicle carefully before use, take photos or videos, and only rent from reputable companies.
4. Fake Tour Operators
You’ll find plenty of tour operators offering trips to islands, temples, or jungle adventures, but not all are legit. Some may take your money and cancel last minute, or provide a poor-quality service. Always read reviews online before booking and try to use trusted sources or your hotel’s recommendation. This is especially true when booking trips to remote spots like Koh Tao Island Thailand, where safety and timing are crucial.
5. Gem Scams
This scam has been around for decades but still traps many tourists. You’ll be told that a special gem sale is happening today only and that you can resell the gems back home for a profit. Spoiler: the gems are usually fake or overpriced. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
6. Bird Feeders and Costume Photos
In some areas, people may offer bird seed or a photo with someone in costume and then demand an outrageous payment afterward. Politely decline any offers you didn't ask for. Street performers and vendors should never force their services on you.
7. Timeshare Presentations
You might be offered free tours, meals, or show tickets in exchange for attending a “brief presentation.” These are usually high-pressure sales pitches for timeshares that eat up hours of your day. Unless you’re seriously considering buying property in Thailand, it’s best to skip these.
Final Thailand Travel Tips
While these scams can sound intimidating, don’t let them discourage you from visiting. Thailand remains a welcoming and safe destination for millions of tourists each year. A little preparation goes a long way. Research your Thailand travel tips, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to walk away if something feels off.
By staying alert and knowing what to expect, you can focus on the amazing parts of your trip — from spicy tom yum soup and floating markets to postcard-perfect beaches. A few smart choices can mean the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable adventure.
