Thailand Travel with a Toddler: Essential Tips for Stress-Free Adventures

Planning on traveling to Thailand with a toddler or baby? Here’s everything you need to know!

Traveling to Thailand with young kids, especially toddlers, can be a rewarding adventure, but it comes with unique adjustments.

Based on our firsthand experience with our 3-year-old, we’ve compiled practical tips to help you prepare and ensure a smooth journey.

From navigating cultural norms to handling transportation and meals, there’s a lot parents should know before setting off. Thailand is a family-friendly destination, but planning ahead can make all the difference.

Here’s everything we learned to help you make the most of your trip with little ones and to make you feel as prepared as possible.

🤝🇹🇭 Why trust us on this topic? My mother and her side of the family are Thai, so Thailand isn’t just a destination for us—it’s another “home.” Our trips are rooted in authenticity, as we’re guided by family members who live there. This personal connection gives us unique insights that go beyond typical tourist experiences, ensuring you get advice you can truly rely on!

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Quick View: Tips for Thailand Travel With a Toddler

Long Flights

Book a layover long enough to allow for a stay at an airport hotel.
You NEED access to airport lounges for long-ish layovers (we use the Chase Reserve credit card with Priority Pass access).

Sleeping & Accommodation

Look for hotels that offer free beds for kids or provide cribs so you don’t have to pay for a triple room.

Basic Health & Safety

Don’t underestimate the risk of a stomach bug—be prepared with the right medicines.
Always spray your kids with bug spray whenever they leave the hotel.

Food

Avoid tap water and drinks with ice cubes.
If you’re not experienced with traveling to intrepid destinations, skip the street food and opt for restaurants instead.
Kid-friendly foods that won’t overwhelm their tastebuds include sticky rice, fruit, omelets, grilled chicken, and fried rice.

Amenities

Don’t expect to find many (if any) public playgrounds throughout Thailand.

Walking Around

Walking in major cities and towns can feel hectic, with lively streets that are far different from European cities like Rome.

Receiving Attention

Your kids are likely to attract admiration from locals and other tourists. Don’t be surprised if they’re handed gifts, invited somewhere, or even photographed.

Laundry

Use hotel laundry services—they’re incredibly convenient and very affordable.

Activities

Wherever you are in Thailand, there is an abundance of animal-centric attractions that so happen to be perfect for kids. Sanctuaries, animal farms, and zoos are easy to find.

Equipment & Gear

Leave the stroller at home. Instead, rely on a baby carrier, hiking backpack, or your active toddler to walk everywhere!

Packing

Large supermarkets in Thailand carry many familiar brands, so don’t overpack items you can easily buy once you arrive.
Do pack any preferred medications.

Emergencies

Clinics and pharmacies are widely available in all major Thai destinations. As a bonus, foreigners don’t need to worry about outrageous medical bills—healthcare services are very affordable.

The Essentials for Visiting Thailand With Kids

📞 Use a Thai eSIM (we use Airalo) to easily make calls to emergency services.

💊 Take stomach bugs seriously! Have remedies on hand in case you can’t get to the pharmacy in time.

🐒 While Bangkok is incredible, young children may prefer other parts of Thailand where they have more freedom to roam. Consider Koh Samui for a beach getaway or Chiang Mai for nature and animals.

🦟 Don’t leave the hotel room without applying bug spray. You might also want to use a plug-in repellent in your room—mosquitoes are no joke!

👶🏻 Leave the stroller behind. You won’t need it in Thailand.

🌞 Travel to Thailand with a toddler in November or December. The weather is perfect, and your kids won’t be overwhelmed by the heat.

12 Things to Know for Thailand Travel With a Toddler

1. Managing Long Flights

Flying to Southeast Asia usually involves a long flight (or series of flights), which can feel daunting for any parent with young children. While you can’t predict exactly how your toddler will handle the journey, you can take charge of other aspects, like airport experiences and layovers.

At the Airport(s)

Navigating airports with a toddler—or even better, a baby—can feel like having a golden pass. This is especially true at major European airports, and we found the same to be the case in many Asian airports.

Once staff see you juggling a young family, they often guide you to shorter immigration lines, expedited security checks, and sometimes even dedicated check-in desks.

If this doesn’t happen automatically, don’t hesitate to ask! Take advantage of the situation. Not everyone feels comfortable doing this, but personally, we have no shame in using our toddler to make airport experiences smoother (we promise we’re good parents).

🤫 Security Hack: We went through airport security with a FULL water bottle in our daughter’s backpack on about 10 different occasions. Once the staff knows it’s for a young child, they allow it.

Layovers

If budget isn’t a concern, you’re probably opting for a direct flight. However, if you’re like us, the cost of flights plays a bigger role, making a layover unavoidable. That said, we strongly advise against any flight with more than one layover.

When considering layovers, we ask ourselves two key questions:

1. Is the layover long enough to book a hotel and unwind or sleep through the night?
2. Is it short enough to relax and enjoy a meal at an airport lounge before the next flight?

From our experience, handling a layover in one of these two ways is the best way to make a long travel day bearable—or even enjoyable.

While we might one day get away with sleeping in an airport with a teenager, for now, we’re more than willing to pay a premium for convenience if it means our toddler can enjoy a comfortable night in an airport hotel.

Thankfully, we have airport lounge access through Priority Pass, thanks to our Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card. If you’re an avid traveler and don’t already have this card, stop what you’re doing and apply now.

Free food, charging stations, and clean bathrooms are lifesavers when traveling with young children!

2. Sleeping + Booking Accommodation

Most hotels in Thailand typically offer either one double bed or two twin beds. While triple rooms are convenient when traveling with one young child, they are not a common accommodation type in Thailand.

Instead, look for hotels that provide free extra beds (such as rollaway beds) or cribs. This allows you to book a double room at the standard price while ensuring your child has a comfortable place to sleep.

Additionally, avoid hotels that charge extra for children to begin with. This practice is uncommon in Thailand, so there’s no need to unnecessarily overpay.

Booking a hotel room with multiple beds becomes more challenging if you’re traveling with more than one child. Unless you’re bringing travel beds of your own, you’ll likely need to book more than one room.

🦟 Mosquitos in Hotels: We packed a plug-in mosquito repellent to use in case we ended up in a hotel room with mosquitos. You never know what the situation will be like, and instead of going to bed with bug spray on, the plug-in repellent worked perfectly.

3. Prioritizing Basic Health and Safety

While this should be a given for any trip, prioritizing basic health and safety practices is especially important for travel to Thailand with a toddler.

• Do not drink tap water; stick to bottled water only.
• Be cautious about beverages with ice cubes. You never know exactly how the ice was made, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Always have a mini medical or first aid kit on hand. I carried band-aids, basic medications, and creams like anti-itch or burn relief in my bag at all times. This can be a lifesaver, especially when visiting more remote locations.
• Mosquitos are one of the biggest dangers due to the diseases they can spread, so wearing bug spray at all times is essential. If you’re extra cautious, pack your favorite brand (like we did!) that you know works well.
• Be selective about “street food,” as stomach bugs are a common occurrence for foreigners eating in Thailand.
• Use these toilet seat covers for your toddlers who are prone to touching everything and anything in a public restroom.

4. Eating in Thailand

Thai food is the greatest food in the world. I may be completely biased, but ask anyone, and you’ll find it’s hard to disagree with this statement! Truth be told, one of the best things to do in Thailand is simply to eat.

But hold your horses! If you or your children aren’t particularly accustomed to eating street food, your bodies might not adapt well. In that case, it’s best to stick to restaurants or sit-down establishments.

One of the best things about eating in Thailand is that food is readily available at any hour of the day—great news for parents who need to satisfy the random hunger of toddlers.

😋 Did you know? Most Thai people don’t cook much at home and instead buy meals throughout the day. When meals are guaranteed to be delicious and super affordable, why would you cook?!

Kid-Friendly Food in Thailand

Thai cuisine offers a huge variety, and while not every dish will appeal to less adventurous eaters, there are a handful of fail-proof options your kids are sure to enjoy.

Foods like sticky rice, fried rice, grilled chicken, fruit, clear broth noodle soup, Pad Thai, Pad See Ew, and omelets are fan favorites that are sure to appeal to even the greenest of palates.

Additionally, you cannot leave Thailand without making a snack stop at a 7-Eleven convenience store. One of our favorite activities was letting our daughter pick out a daily treat from the insanely wide selection of snacks.

5. Child-Friendly Amenities

The lack of public playgrounds is perhaps the most noticeable difference for foreigners (and residents of EU countries) traveling in Thailand with a toddler. If you’re used to a place with countless parks, green spaces, and outdoor jungle gyms for kids, not having access to these can be a bit of an adjustment.

However, we did find some indoor play parks at malls that charge an entrance fee, so it’s good to be aware of those as an alternative.

One of the most memorable experiences was watching our daughter make friends with local kids who were building a boat out of cardboard boxes. Sometimes, it’s the simplest type of play that works best!

Traveling to Thailand with a toddler may mean your kids will learn to entertain themselves in creative ways.

6. Walking Around

In the traditional sense, we wouldn’t describe most major cities or towns in Thailand as walkable. Of course, you can walk anywhere, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with its fair share of hurdles.

The bustling streets of Thailand can feel lively and unpredictable, especially when traveling with toddlers. There’s constant movement, some of which doesn’t stop at any time of day.

Traffic is heavy and includes all sorts of vehicles—cars, taxis, vans, buses, scooters, and bicycles. It can be a lot to take in depending on where you’re travelling from.

Moreover, sidewalks and crosswalks aren’t always available, which requires some crafty maneuvering when planning your route.

Overall, it’s a good idea to do some research beforehand to determine if the area you’re staying in or planning to explore is quieter or overrun with traffic.

7. Receiving Attention

Thai people love kids, especially babies and toddlers. As foreigners, you’ll likely stand out and should expect to receive attention. Unfortunately, whether you like it or not.

Don’t be alarmed if people offer your children gifts, invite your family somewhere, or even take photos of your kids. The latter may raise privacy concerns for some, but as a heads-up, it can happen.

Strangely enough, our daughter caught the attention of a few Chinese tour groups. She’s shy around crowds of strangers and luckily covered her face while they tried to take photos of her. Mentioning this might sound odd, but it’s an experience worth sharing with others.

8. Laundry

The chore you never knew would mean so much until you have kids—laundry. Oh, how quickly it piles up when traveling with children.

Particularly in Thailand, it becomes difficult to rewear clothes more than once before needing to wash them. The reason is simple: it’s hot, everyone gets sweaty, and there’s also the combination of dust from being out and about.

I was fully convinced I’d be doing laundry in hotel sinks every day and even brought a tube of detergent with me. Then, I realized I’d be insane to spend 40% of my travel time just doing laundry.

Book hotels that offer laundry services when traveling in Thailand with toddlers. It’s convenient, inexpensive, and a far superior solution to scrubbing clothes in the sink or shower.

Additionally, you’ll find many laundromats in Thailand. These are self-service, but they typically require you to stay nearby while you wait for your laundry.

9. Finding Things to Do

Aside from the major landmarks and sites in the destination you’re visiting, you may crave something more kid-specific. If that’s the case, start your search for animal parks and farms. Thailand is packed with animal-centric attractions, which are perfect for toddlers.

Depending on where you are in Thailand, you might have the opportunity to visit an ethical animal sanctuary, often home to elephants or monkeys.

Animal parks featuring birds, insects, reptiles, and even old-fashioned petting zoos are also common. While in big cities, do a quick search for a cat café, and chances are you’ll find a few.

Most hotels in Thailand also act as tour agencies. Ask them for recommendations on family-friendly activities – they’re an easy resource.

10. Equipment and Gear

If there’s one thing to take away from this guide, it’s this: do not bring a stroller to Thailand when visiting with a toddler. You’ll only use it at the airport, which is just a small fraction of your entire trip.

The streets and logistics of getting around in Thailand are not suited for stroller use. Even if you’re thinking, “But I’m just visiting urban environments in Thailand,” don’t do it. Your stroller won’t be of much use, even in Thailand’s big cities.

Instead, consider using a hiking backpack seat for toddlers or start training them for walking marathons. If you’re visiting Thailand with a baby, a baby carrier is the ultimate solution.

11. Packing

Major supermarket chains in Thailand, like Lotus’s or Big C, carry a wide variety of brands you’ll likely recognize from home. Because of this, avoid overpacking your suitcase with items you can easily find and purchase in Thailand.

This is one of the biggest packing mistakes people make—assuming they won’t be able to find their favorite brand of toothpaste and proceeding to pack six tubes of it.

What you should focus on packing are any preferred or prescribed medications and valuable clothing items that aren’t easily found elsewhere. Toddlers should pick out one or two of their favorite toys or stuffed animals for comfort, but otherwise, leave the playroom at home.

Leaving room in your luggage is essential because, whether you plan to or not, you’ll inevitably buy souvenirs and gifts to bring home.

Affordable and non-bulky items for toddlers to bring back from Thailand include coloring books, stickers, and iconic elephant-print clothing.

12. Handling Emergencies

Young children are accident-prone, so it’s important to know what to do when traveling in Thailand with toddlers. Thailand has a helpful tourist hotline you can call at 1155 for any emergencies, where you’ll be connected with an English-speaking representative.

The general emergency hotline is 191, which covers the police, ambulance, and fire services.

It’s also wise to know the location of the nearest hospital or emergency room to your hotel. These facilities are open 24/7, but in times of panic, it’s important to know exactly where you’re headed.

Healthcare services are relatively inexpensive. While you will pay for medical expenses in the event of an emergency in Thailand, the amount will not be shockingly high.

📞 Pro Tip: Use a Thai SIM card (eSIM or physical SIM) so you can easily make phone calls for emergency services.

FAQs Visiting Thailand With Toddlers

Is Thailand Safe for Families?

Thailand is overall considered safe for tourists with families. Like any destination, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Be mindful of petty crime, especially in tourist areas.
• Traffic can be chaotic, so exercise caution when crossing streets and hold your toddler’s hand.
• For health, drink bottled water, avoid ice, and be cautious with street food.
• Check weather conditions for seasonal monsoons and be aware of natural hazards like strong currents or wild animals in rural areas.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around Thailand for Families?

Whether you have a toddler or not, who can resist a TukTuk ride? There’s something undeniably fun about zipping around in a cart attached to a scooter or riding in the back of a truck bed.

Not only are these modes of transportation a blast, but they’re also affordable and efficient ways to get around much of Thailand.

If you’re visiting Bangkok with a toddler, the BTS Skytrain is the best option for covering long distances, though this modern public transport system isn’t available everywhere in the country.

In most parts of Thailand, TukTuks and taxis are easy and inexpensive ways to get around.

If you’re planning an all-day outing or have the budget, hiring a private van with a driver is a great option. It’s still relatively affordable, and the added comfort and convenience are definitely worth it.

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Thailand With a Toddler?

Choosing where to go in Thailand with a toddler largely depends on the kind of trip you’re looking for.

Of course, there are the beaches and Thailand’s stunning coastlines and islands. While you can’t go wrong with any of them, it’s highly recommended to do some research beforehand.

Some beach destinations are more suited to partygoers (like Phuket), so it’s a good idea to figure out which ones align with your family’s preferences.

In our opinion, a family holiday in Bangkok should be approached in a specific way. Book a nice hotel with a rooftop pool, so your kids can easily find entertainment and cool off whenever they please.

Take advantage of the evenings for dining and exploration since it’s much cooler then. Remember, Bangkok is a major city, and its urban vibe—along with its beautiful chaos—definitely shines through.

Lesser-known cities inland or in northern Thailand (like Chiang Mai) are known for their landscapes, jungles, waterfalls, wildlife, and pristine nature. Based on our own preferences, this is the Thailand we loved most for our toddler.

Is Thailand a Good Destination for Families on a Budget?

Nothing beats the value of Southeast Asia, and Thailand is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for families traveling on a budget. The main appeal lies in the affordability of everyday expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation.

Of course, if you’re planning to book a luxury tour, stay at a 5-star hotel, or attend a high-end show, your trip will cost more. But for the typical travelling family, Thailand is a dream destination that offers incredible value.

Related Travel Posts:

• The Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai With Kids
• Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Luang Prabang
• 15 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Chiang Mai
• Authentic Experiences in Luang Prabang
• Where to Eat in Chiang Mai (Recommendations by a Local)
• Packing List: Southeast Asia Travel With Kids

Thailand Travel Resources

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com

🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com

🚊 TRAINS, BUSES, FERRIES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

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