Thailand Emergency Guide: What to Do When Things Go Wrong (2026)

Nobody plans for an emergency. But when your passport gets stolen, you're in a hospital bed, or you're sitting in a Thai police station trying to explain what happened — that's exactly when you need clear, step-by-step instructions.

This guide is your reference for every crisis scenario you might encounter in Thailand. Bookmark it. Screenshot the emergency numbers. Email the embassy contacts to yourself. You probably won't need any of this. But if you do, you'll be glad you had it.

Emergency Numbers: Save These NOW

Before you read anything else, put these numbers in your phone:

| Number | Service | Language | When to Call | |--------|---------|----------|-------------| | 1155 | Tourist Police | English + Thai | YOUR FIRST CALL for almost everything | | 191 | Police (general) | Thai | Crimes in progress, security threats | | 1669 | Ambulance / Emergency Medical Services | Thai (some English) | Medical emergencies, accidents | | 199 | Fire Department | Thai | Fire emergencies | | 1646 | Immigration Bureau hotline | Thai + English | Visa issues, immigration problems | | 1584 | Department of Tourism complaints | Thai + English | Scams, unfair business practices |

Why 1155 (Tourist Police) Is Your #1 Number

The Tourist Police are a special division of the Thai police dedicated to helping foreign visitors. Here's what makes them essential:

They speak English (and often other languages)
They understand tourist problems — stolen passports, scams, accidents, disputes with businesses
They act as mediators between you and Thai authorities
They're available 24/7, 365 days a year
They can coordinate ambulances, police reports, embassy contact
They have offices in every major tourist area

What Tourist Police CAN help with:

Filing police reports (in English)
Mediating disputes with taxis, hotels, businesses
Providing translation at hospitals or regular police stations
Guiding you through the stolen passport process
Connecting you with your embassy
Assisting with scam reports

What Tourist Police CANNOT do:

Investigate serious crimes (that's regular police)
Get your money back from scams (they can report it, but recovery is unlikely)
Override immigration decisions
Represent you legally

Tourist Police Offices (Major Locations)

| Location | Address | Phone | |----------|---------|-------| | Bangkok HQ | 4th Floor, Tourism Authority of Thailand Building, Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd | 02-356-0583 | | Bangkok (Khao San Road) | Near Khao San Rd | Walk in | | Phuket | Thalang Road, Phuket Town | 076-223-891 | | Pattaya | Soi 9, Beach Road | 038-429-371 | | Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd | 053-248-974 | | Koh Samui | Nathon | 077-421-281 | | Koh Phangan | Thong Sala | 077-377-114 | | Krabi | Krabi Town | 075-637-208 | | Surat Thani | City center | 077-281-300 |

Embassy and Consulate Contacts

Your embassy is your lifeline in a serious emergency. They can issue emergency travel documents, contact your family, visit you in prison, and provide lists of local lawyers and doctors.

Important: Embassies CANNOT:

Pay your bills or lend you money (except in extreme cases, as a loan you must repay)
Get you out of jail
Override Thai law
Intervene in civil disputes
Pay for your flight home

United States

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 95 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 | 02-205-4000 | 02-205-4000 (press 0 for duty officer) | | Consulate Chiang Mai | 387 Wichayanon Road, Chiang Mai 50300 | 052-107-700 | 02-205-4000 |

Website: th.usembassy.gov
Emergency email: acsbkk@state.gov
Register with Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): step.state.gov

United Kingdom

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 14 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 | 02-305-8333 | 02-305-8333 (select emergency option) |

Website: gov.uk/world/thailand
Email: consular.bangkok@fcdo.gov.uk
24/7 UK number: +44 1908 516666

Australia

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 181 Wireless Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 | 02-344-6300 | +61 2 6261 3305 (Canberra consular emergency) |

Website: thailand.embassy.gov.au
Email: consular.bangkok@dfat.gov.au
Register with Smartraveller: smartraveller.gov.au

Canada

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 15th Floor, Abdulrahim Place, 990 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500 | 02-646-4300 | +1 613 996 8885 (Ottawa) |

Website: thailand.gc.ca
Email: bngkk-cs@international.gc.ca
Register with Registration of Canadians Abroad: travel.gc.ca

Germany

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 9 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120 | 02-287-9000 | 02-287-9000 (emergency line) |

Website: bangkok.diplo.de
Email: info@bangkok.diplo.de

France

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 35 Charoen Krung Soi 36 (Rue de Brest), Bangkok 10500 | 02-657-5100 | 02-657-5100 |

Website: th.ambafrance.org
Emergency email: urgences.bangkok-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr

Netherlands

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 15 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 | 02-309-5200 | +31 247 247 247 (24/7 The Hague) |

Website: netherlandsworldwide.nl/countries/thailand

Sweden

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 11th Floor, One Pacific Place, 140 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 | 02-263-7200 | +46 8 405 50 05 (Stockholm UD) |

Website: swedenabroad.se/bangkok

Japan

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 177 Witthayu Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 | 02-207-8500 | 02-207-8500 | | Consulate Chiang Mai | Suite 104-107, Airport Business Park, 90 Mahidol Rd, Chiang Mai | 052-012-500 | 02-207-8500 |

Website: th.emb-japan.go.jp

South Korea

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 23 Thiam-Ruammit Road, Ratchadapisek, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310 | 02-247-7537 | 02-247-7537 |

Website: overseas.mofa.go.kr/th-en

China

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 57 Ratchadaphisek Road, Bangkok 10310 | 02-245-7044 | 02-245-7044 | | Consulate Chiang Mai | 111 Changloh Road, Chiang Mai 50100 | 053-280-380 | 053-280-380 |

India

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 46 Soi Prasarnmit (Sukhumvit 23), Bangkok 10110 | 02-258-0300 | 02-258-0300 |

Website: eoibangkok.gov.in

Israel

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 25th Floor, Ocean Tower 2, 75 Sukhumvit Soi 19, Bangkok 10110 | 02-204-9200 | 02-204-9200 |

Website: embassies.gov.il/bangkok

New Zealand

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Embassy Bangkok | 14th Floor, Thai Tower, All Seasons Place, 87 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330 | 02-254-2530 | +64 4 439 8000 (Wellington) |

Ireland

| Office | Address | Phone | Emergency (After Hours) | |--------|---------|-------|------------------------| | Honorary Consulate Bangkok | 12th Floor, United Flour Mill Building, 205 Rajawongse Road, Bangkok 10100 | 02-632-6540 | +353 1 408 2000 (Dublin) |

Scenario 1: Passport Stolen or Lost

This is the most common serious emergency for travelers in Thailand. Here's exactly what to do, step by step.

Step 1: File a Police Report (Same Day)

Go to the nearest police station (not Tourist Police — you need a regular police station for the official report)
Alternatively, call 1155 (Tourist Police) and they'll direct you or accompany you
Tell them: "I need to report a stolen/lost passport" (bring a Thai-speaking friend or use Google Translate if needed)
You'll receive a police report document (usually takes 1-3 hours)
Get multiple copies of the police report — you'll need them for your embassy and insurance

What to bring to the police station:

A copy of your passport (you did photograph it, right?)
Your travel insurance details
Description of when/where it was stolen
Any other ID you have (driver's license, student card)

Step 2: Contact Your Embassy (Within 24 Hours)

Call your embassy using the numbers listed above
Explain the situation
Book an appointment to apply for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) or temporary passport

Step 3: Visit Your Embassy

What to bring:

Police report (original + copies)
Any ID you have (driver's license, expired passport, birth certificate)
2 passport-sized photos (get these at any photo shop — they're everywhere, 100-200 THB for 6 photos)
Money for the emergency document fee
Proof of citizenship (if possible)
Your flight details or onward travel plans

What you'll get:

Emergency Travel Document (ETD): A temporary one-way document valid only for returning to your home country. Usually issued same day or within 1-2 days. Cost varies by country (US$175 for US ETD, approx. GBP 100 for UK, AUD 194 for Australia)
Temporary Passport: Some embassies issue a temporary passport valid for a limited period. Takes 1-5 days. More expensive but allows continued travel.
Full Replacement Passport: Takes 2-6 weeks depending on nationality. Only necessary if you need to continue a long trip.

Step 4: Visit Thai Immigration

With your new ETD or temporary passport, you need to:

Visit the nearest Immigration Office to get a re-entry stamp
Bring your police report and ETD
This legitimizes your presence in Thailand without the original passport

Main Immigration Bureau: Government Complex, B Building, Floor 2, Chaeng Watthana Road, Laksi, Bangkok (open Mon-Fri 8:30-16:30)

Step 5: Insurance Claim

Contact your travel insurance provider
Provide: police report, embassy documents, receipts for replacement documents
Most policies cover emergency document costs (minus deductible)

Timeline Summary

| Day | Action | |-----|--------| | Day 0 | Report to police, contact embassy | | Day 1-2 | Visit embassy, get ETD or temporary passport | | Day 2-3 | Visit Immigration for re-entry stamp | | Day 3-7 | Resume travel or fly home on ETD | | Week 2-6 | Full passport replacement (if needed) |

Prevention Tips

Photograph every page of your passport — store in cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox, email to yourself)
Leave your actual passport in your hotel safe when going out — carry a photocopy
Keep a separate set of passport photos in your luggage
Register with your embassy's travel program before you leave home (STEP for Americans, Smartraveller for Australians, etc.)
Consider a passport holder worn under clothing for areas with pickpockets

Scenario 2: Wallet or Money Stolen

Immediate Actions (First 30 Minutes)

Cancel your bank cards immediately:
- Call your bank's international number (should be saved in your phone)
- Most banks have fraud hotlines that work 24/7
- Cancel debit cards, credit cards, and request replacements sent to your accommodation
- Major bank numbers:
  - Visa Global: +1-303-967-1096
  - Mastercard Global: +1-636-722-7111
  - Amex Global: +1-336-393-1111
File a police report at the nearest station (you'll need this for insurance claims)
Contact your travel insurance — most policies cover stolen cash up to a limit (usually US$200-300)

Getting Emergency Cash

| Method | How | Timeline | Notes | |--------|-----|----------|-------| | Western Union | Someone sends from home, you pick up at any Bangkok Bank or Kasikorn Bank branch | 10 minutes | Fees: 5-10% of amount | | MoneyGram | Similar to Western Union, pick up at bank branches or 7-Eleven | 10 minutes | Fees: 5-10% | | Wise (TransferWise) | Transfer to a Thai bank account (if you have one) or pickup point | 1-2 hours | Low fees | | Embassy emergency loan | Your embassy can advance funds in extreme cases | Same day | You MUST repay this | | Insurance advance | Some policies offer emergency cash advances | 24-48 hours | Call your insurer | | Grab/ride apps | Grab accepts international cards even without physical card (if saved in app) | Immediate | For transportation only | | Ask your hostel | Many hostels will advance small amounts to guests | Immediate | Repay when cash arrives |

Replacement Cards

Request new cards be shipped to your hotel/hostel via express courier (DHL, FedEx)
Some banks (Revolut, Wise, N26) can issue virtual cards instantly that work with Apple/Google Pay
Thai ATMs accept most international cards — your replacement cards will work when they arrive

Prevention Tips

Don't carry all your money in one place — split cash between wallet, money belt, and luggage
Use a money belt for large amounts of cash and backup cards
Keep an emergency stash of US$100 hidden in your luggage (taped inside a book, in a sock, etc.)
Take photos of all your cards (front only — never back) and store in cloud
Tell your bank you're traveling so they don't freeze your card for "suspicious" foreign transactions
Use Grab or Bolt instead of carrying cash for taxis

Scenario 3: Phone Stolen

Immediate Actions

Remote wipe your phone via iCloud (iPhone) or Google Find My Device (Android) — do this from any computer (hostel, internet cafe, hotel business center)
Change passwords on critical accounts: email, banking, social media
Report to police and get a police report (for insurance)
Contact your phone provider to suspend your SIM card
Deactivate mobile banking by calling your bank
Log out of all sessions on sensitive accounts (most services allow this remotely)

Buying a Replacement

Cheapest options in Bangkok:

MBK Center (Ma Boon Khrong) — 4th floor is the phone market. Basic Android smartphones from 2,000-3,000 THB (US$55-85). Used iPhones from 5,000-10,000 THB.
Fortune Town — similar to MBK, good for electronics
7-Eleven — sells basic feature phones for 500-800 THB (calls and texts only)

Cheapest options outside Bangkok:

Any major shopping mall has phone shops
Big C or Tesco Lotus (now Lotus's) electronics sections
Local phone shops in any town

New Thai SIM card: 50-300 THB for a tourist SIM with data at any 7-Eleven, airport, or phone shop. See our communication guides for details. You'll need your passport (or passport photocopy) to register a SIM.

Insurance Claim

You'll need: police report, receipt for the stolen phone (original purchase), replacement phone receipt
Most policies have a per-item limit (typically US$300-500)
Deductible applies (often US$100-250)

Scenario 4: Arrested or Detained

This is rare but it happens, usually related to drugs, visa overstays, fights, or property damage. Understanding your rights can make a critical difference.

Your Rights in Thailand

You have the right to contact your embassy — insist on this immediately
You have the right to a lawyer — you are under no obligation to sign anything without legal counsel
You do NOT have to answer questions without a lawyer present (though remaining silent can be viewed negatively by Thai police)
Anything you sign is legally binding — never sign documents you don't understand, especially in Thai

What to Do If Arrested

Step 1: Stay calm. Do not resist, argue, or become aggressive. Thai police generally treat foreigners reasonably if you're cooperative.

Step 2: Ask to contact your embassy. Say clearly: "I want to contact my embassy." Under Thai law and international conventions, police must allow this.

Step 3: Do NOT sign anything you don't understand. If a document is in Thai and no translation is provided, politely decline to sign until you have a translator or lawyer.

Step 4: Do NOT admit guilt to anything, even under pressure. Statements made to police are admissible in court.

Step 5: Contact a lawyer. Your embassy can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers. If you can't afford one, your embassy may be able to connect you with legal aid.

What Your Embassy Can Do

Visit you in detention
Provide a list of local lawyers
Notify your family (with your permission)
Ensure you're being treated fairly
Monitor court proceedings
Provide information about Thai legal process

What Your Embassy CANNOT Do

Get you out of jail
Pay your bail
Provide legal advice
Interfere with Thai judicial process
Get charges dropped

Drug Offenses: Extremely Serious

Thailand has some of the harshest drug laws in the world:

| Offense | Potential Penalty | |---------|-------------------| | Possession of marijuana (small amount) | Fine + possible imprisonment (note: cannabis laws have changed — see current status below) | | Possession of hard drugs (methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy) | 1-10 years imprisonment + fine | | Drug trafficking | 5 years to life imprisonment | | Trafficking large quantities (heroin, meth) | Death penalty (commuted to life imprisonment in most cases) |

Cannabis note (2026): Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022 but has been moving to re-regulate it. As of early 2026, recreational cannabis use is in a legal gray area. Cannabis shops still operate, but new legislation may change the rules. Do not assume it's fully legal. Stay informed and check current regulations before use.

Real talk: At Full Moon Parties, beach bars, and backpacker hostels, people will offer you drugs. Some of these dealers are police informants. "Buy from a friendly local, get arrested by police waiting around the corner" is a documented tactic. The risk is simply not worth it.

Lawyer Costs (Approximate)

| Service | Cost (THB) | |---------|-----------| | Initial consultation | 2,000-5,000 | | Court representation (minor offense) | 20,000-80,000 | | Court representation (serious offense) | 100,000-500,000+ | | Bail arrangement | Varies by charge | | Interpreter services | 1,000-3,000 per hour |

Visa Overstay

If you've overstayed your visa:

| Overstay Duration | Penalty | |-------------------|---------| | 1 day | 500 THB fine | | Up to 40 days | 500 THB per day (max 20,000 THB) | | 40+ days (caught at exit) | 20,000 THB fine + potential ban | | 90+ days (caught in-country) | Detention, deportation, 1-year entry ban | | 1+ year overstay | 5-year entry ban | | 3+ years overstay | 10-year entry ban |

If you realize you've overstayed: Go to Immigration voluntarily (Chaeng Watthana, Bangkok or local immigration offices) before you're caught. Voluntary surrender is treated more leniently than being caught by police.

Scenario 5: Hospitalized

Step 1: Insurance Activation

Call your insurance provider's 24/7 emergency line immediately (or have someone call for you)
Provide your policy number and hospital details
Ask if they can arrange direct payment to the hospital (many insurers work directly with Thai private hospitals)
If direct payment isn't possible, you'll need to pay upfront and claim back later

Step 2: Hospital Admission

Private hospitals will ask for:
- Passport (or photocopy)
- Credit card or cash deposit (10,000-100,000 THB depending on treatment)
- Insurance details
Public hospitals usually just need your passport and treat first, bill later

Step 3: Communication

Ask for an English-speaking doctor (all major private hospitals have them)
Request written diagnosis and treatment plan
Have the hospital contact your insurer directly if possible
Keep ALL paperwork — you'll need it

Step 4: Contact Embassy and Family

Your embassy can visit you, help communicate with doctors, and notify family
Give the hospital emergency contact details
If you need someone to make medical decisions for you, this should be arranged

Step 5: Medical Evacuation

If the hospital can't provide adequate treatment (rare in Bangkok, possible on islands):

Your insurance company coordinates evacuation
This could mean: speedboat to mainland, ambulance to larger hospital, helicopter to Bangkok, or international medical flight home
This is why you need US$300,000+ medical evacuation coverage — international medical flights can cost US$50,000-100,000+

Important Hospital Documents to Collect

Keep copies of everything:

Admission and discharge forms
Doctor's diagnosis and treatment notes
Medication prescriptions and receipts
Lab results and imaging reports
Daily itemized bills
Final invoice
Any surgery or procedure reports

For detailed hospital information, see our Thailand Health Guide.

Scenario 6: Natural Disasters

Tsunami

Risk areas: Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Khao Lak)

Since the 2004 tsunami, Thailand has invested heavily in warning systems:

National Disaster Warning Center broadcasts alerts via sirens, TV, radio, and mobile
Tsunami warning towers installed along the Andaman coast with loudspeaker alerts
Evacuation route signs posted in high-risk coastal areas (blue signs with white arrows)

What to do:

If you feel a strong earthquake: move to high ground immediately. Don't wait for official warnings.
If the ocean suddenly recedes far from the beach: RUN inland or uphill. This is a classic tsunami precursor.
Follow evacuation signs to designated high ground
Do not return to the coast until authorities give the all-clear
If caught in water: grab onto something that floats, try to ride above the wave

Flooding

When: Rainy season (June-November), worst in September-October

Most affected areas: Bangkok (especially Rangsit, Don Mueang, outer suburbs), Chiang Mai (Ping River flooding), rural provinces

What to do:

Monitor local news and weather reports
Move valuables to higher floors
Stock bottled water and dry food
Stay out of floodwater — it contains sewage, chemicals, and debris
If water rises in your accommodation, move to upper floors
Don't drive or walk through floodwater — it can be deeper than it appears and may hide open drains

Earthquakes

Risk level: Low in most of Thailand. Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai) has occasional minor earthquakes.

What to do:

Drop, Cover, Hold On
Get under sturdy furniture
Stay away from windows
If outdoors, move away from buildings
If driving, pull over to safe area

Severe Storms and Monsoons

When: Monsoon season varies by coast:

Gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao): worst October-December
Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi): worst May-October
North and Central: worst June-October

What to do:

Don't take boats in stormy weather (ferries are cancelled for a reason)
Stay away from beaches during storms (rip currents, debris)
Avoid hilltop accommodations during lightning
Have a flashlight and portable charger (power outages are common)

Scenario 7: Sexual Assault

If this happens to you, it is NOT your fault. Here are your options — you are in control of what steps you take.

Immediate Safety

Get to a safe location
Call someone you trust — travel companion, hostel staff, or Tourist Police (1155)
If you need immediate medical attention, go to the nearest hospital

Medical Examination

A medical exam collects evidence and checks for injuries and STIs
You can request a female doctor
This does NOT obligate you to file a police report
The hospital will provide emergency contraception and PEP (HIV post-exposure prophylaxis) if needed
Private hospitals (Bumrungrad, BNH) have experience handling these sensitive cases with privacy and care

Reporting (Your Choice)

You are under NO obligation to report to police. But if you choose to:

Call Tourist Police (1155) first — they can accompany you
You have the right to a female officer (request this)
You can have someone with you during the process
Get copies of all reports

Support Resources

| Organization | Contact | Notes | |-------------|---------|-------| | Tourist Police | 1155 | 24/7, English-speaking | | OSCC (One Stop Crisis Centre) | 1300 | Thai government support for violence victims | | Your embassy | See contacts above | Consular assistance, victim support | | Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation | 02-513-2155 | Thai NGO supporting sexual assault survivors | | RAINN (US-based) | +1-800-656-4673 | International sexual assault hotline |

After the Incident

You may experience shock, numbness, anger, fear, or guilt — all normal responses
Seek counseling — many private hospitals have English-speaking therapists
Contact your embassy for victim support services
Consider cutting your trip short if you need to — there is no shame in going home
Insurance may cover related medical costs and early flight change

Scenario 8: Death of a Travel Companion

This is the hardest section to write and hopefully one you'll never need. But knowing the process matters.

Immediate Steps

Call 1669 (ambulance) if death just occurred
Call Tourist Police (1155) — they will coordinate
Contact the deceased person's embassy — they will handle formal notification of next of kin
Do NOT move the body if it's a sudden or unexplained death — police will need to investigate

The Embassy's Role

The deceased person's embassy will:

Officially notify their family
Assist with local authorities and police
Help with death certificate processing
Coordinate repatriation of remains
Provide information about local funeral homes

Repatriation Process

Embalming and preparation: handled by local funeral homes (5,000-20,000 THB)
Shipping remains home: extremely expensive (US$5,000-15,000+ depending on destination)
Cremation in Thailand: less expensive option (2,000-10,000 THB), ashes shipped home
Travel insurance: most policies include repatriation of remains coverage (check limits)
Timeline: 1-4 weeks depending on autopsy requirements, paperwork, and logistics

Supporting Yourself

This is traumatic. You do not have to handle it alone.
Your own embassy can support you, even though it's your companion's embassy handling formalities
Consider professional counseling (see mental health resources in our Thailand Health Guide)
It's OK to go home

Filing a Police Report: Practical Guide

You'll need a police report for insurance claims, embassy services, and as official documentation. Here's how to navigate the process.

Where to Go

Regular police station (sathani tamruat) — for official reports
Tourist Police (1155) — they can accompany you to make the process easier
Go to the station nearest to where the incident occurred

What to Bring

Passport (or photocopy if passport was stolen)
Any evidence (photos, receipts, witness contact info)
Description of what happened (write it down beforehand)
Address of where you're staying

What to Expect

You'll wait. Police stations can be busy. Bring water and patience.
You'll describe what happened. An officer will take notes. If language is a barrier, call 1155 for Tourist Police assistance — they can translate by phone.
You'll sign a statement. Make sure you understand what it says. Ask for translation if needed.
You'll receive a report. This is the key document. Get at least 3 copies.
The whole process takes 1-4 hours.

Tips

Be polite and patient. Thai bureaucracy moves at its own pace. Getting frustrated slows things down.
Don't expect investigation. For petty theft and property crime, police will file the report but are unlikely to investigate further. The report is primarily for insurance purposes.
Some stations may ask for a "fee." This is not official. A standard police report should be free or cost 20-50 THB for copies. If asked for large amounts, politely decline and contact Tourist Police.
Translation services: If no one speaks English, use Google Translate's camera function or the Tourist Police phone translation service (1155)

Travel Insurance Claims: Step-by-Step Process

Before You Claim

Most claims fail because of missing documentation. Collect EVERYTHING:

| Document | Why You Need It | |----------|----------------| | Police report | Proves the incident happened | | Hospital records and receipts | Medical cost documentation | | Pharmacy receipts | Medication costs | | Photos of injuries/damage | Visual evidence | | Receipts for replacement items | Proves cost of stolen items | | Flight change receipts | Trip disruption costs | | Embassy documents | Passport replacement costs | | Witness statements | Supporting evidence | | Your original insurance policy | Reference for coverage limits |

Filing the Claim

Notify your insurer ASAP — most require notification within 24-48 hours of the incident (not the claim, the incident)
Get a claim number from your insurer
Complete the claim form — download from insurer's website or request by email
Attach all documentation — scans are usually fine
Submit within the time limit — most policies require claims within 30-90 days of the incident

Common Claim Timeline

| Stage | Timeline | |-------|----------| | Incident occurs | Day 0 | | Notify insurer | Within 24-48 hours | | Collect documentation | Days 1-14 | | Submit claim | Within 30-90 days | | Insurer acknowledges claim | 5-10 business days | | Insurer requests additional info | 2-4 weeks | | Claim decision | 4-12 weeks | | Payment | 1-2 weeks after approval |

Tips for Successful Claims

Photograph everything — injuries, police reports, receipts, hospital bills
Keep originals AND digital copies of all documents
Be honest — insurance fraud is a criminal offense in most countries
Follow up regularly — don't wait passively; call or email weekly
If denied, appeal — first-time denials are common and can often be overturned with additional documentation
Know your deductible — don't file small claims below your deductible amount (typically US$100-250)

Important Documents: Keep Copies

Before your trip, photograph or scan these documents and store them in at least 3 places:

The Essential Copies

| Document | Where to Store | |----------|---------------| | Passport (all pages) | Phone, cloud (Google Drive/Dropbox/iCloud), email to yourself | | Travel insurance policy + emergency number | Phone, cloud, printed copy in luggage | | Bank card numbers + cancellation numbers | Cloud only (not on phone in case phone is stolen) | | Flight bookings | Phone, email | | Accommodation bookings | Phone, email | | Vaccination record | Phone, cloud | | Prescription medications list | Phone, cloud, printed copy | | Emergency contacts | Phone, cloud, printed card in wallet | | Driver's license | Phone (photo) | | Travel itinerary | Share with family/friends at home |

Digital Security

Use a password manager (1Password, Bitwarden) so you can access accounts from any device
Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts (email, banking)
Set up Find My iPhone/Android before you travel
Know your device's remote wipe procedure
Use a VPN for banking and sensitive transactions on public WiFi
Don't store passport photos, banking info, or passwords in unencrypted notes apps

"Buddy System" for Solo Travelers

If you're traveling alone, these practices can be lifesaving:

Daily Check-In

Share your live location with someone at home (Google Maps, WhatsApp, Apple Find My)
Check in daily with a family member or friend — a simple text is enough
Agree on a protocol: "If I don't message by 10 PM, call me. If I don't answer, contact Tourist Police (1155) and my embassy."

At Hostels

Tell someone where you're going when you head out, especially at night
Exchange numbers with other travelers
Join group activities — hostel pub crawls, day trips, excursions
Leave a note in your locker with your emergency contacts and insurance details (in case you can't speak for yourself)

Out at Night

Never leave a bar or party with someone you just met without telling another person
Keep your phone charged (carry a power bank)
Know your route home before you start drinking
Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) — works without internet
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, leave immediately

Money Emergency: When You're Completely Broke

It happens. Cards frozen, wallet stolen, bank account issues. Here's how to survive with zero funds:

Immediate Options

Contact your embassy — they can advance emergency funds (you must repay)
Western Union/MoneyGram — have family send money. Pick up at any bank branch.
Ask your hostel — explain the situation. Many will let you stay while money is sorted.
Contact your bank — international call, explain the situation, request emergency cash delivery
Sell gear you don't need — Khaosan Road pawn shops will buy electronics, cameras, etc. (you'll get a fraction of value)

Survival Tips While Waiting

Eat cheap: Rice with a fried egg (khao khai dao) is 25-40 THB at any food stall
Drink tap-safe: Buy the largest water bottles you can afford (7L bottles exist for 30 THB)
Temple stays: Some Buddhist temples offer free accommodation and meals for visitors willing to participate in activities
Hostels with work exchange: Some hostels trade work (cleaning, reception) for free accommodation — try Worldpackers or Workaway listings
Free WiFi: Available at 7-Eleven, shopping malls, McDonalds, Starbucks — stay connected to arrange help

Prevention

Keep an emergency US$100-200 cash reserve hidden separately from your wallet
Have at least 2 bank cards from different banks
Set up a Wise or Revolut account as a backup — accessible from any device
Give your travel companion your bank's emergency number (in case you can't call yourself)

Quick Reference Card

Print this or screenshot it. Keep it accessible.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Tourist Police (English): 1155
Ambulance:                1669
Police:                   191
Fire:                     199
Immigration:              1646

MY EMBASSY: _______________
Phone: _______________
After-hours: _______________

MY INSURANCE
Policy #: _______________
Emergency line: _______________

NEAREST HOSPITAL: _______________
Phone: _______________

EMERGENCY CONTACT AT HOME
Name: _______________
Phone: _______________

Preparing Before You Travel

The best time to deal with an emergency is before it happens. Before you fly to Thailand:

Pre-Trip Emergency Checklist

[ ] Buy travel insurance (with motorbike coverage if applicable)
[ ] Photograph passport, visa, insurance card, bank cards
[ ] Store copies in 3 places (phone, cloud, email)
[ ] Save emergency numbers in phone
[ ] Share itinerary with family/friends
[ ] Register with your embassy's travel program
[ ] Set up remote wipe on phone/laptop
[ ] Know your blood type (write it on emergency card)
[ ] Leave power of attorney with someone at home (for extended trips)
[ ] Download offline maps of Thailand
[ ] Set up two-factor authentication on all accounts
[ ] Tell your bank you're traveling to Thailand
[ ] Write down your bank's international emergency number (not the local one)
[ ] Pack a small printed card with emergency contacts, allergies, and blood type — carry it in your wallet

Emergency Kit (Physical Items)

Copies of passport and insurance (in waterproof bag)
Emergency cash (US$100-200) hidden in luggage
Printed emergency contact card in wallet
Backup phone charger / power bank
Small first aid kit basics
Whistle (for drawing attention in emergency)
Flashlight or headlamp

Key Takeaways

Save 1155 in your phone right now. Tourist Police is your first call for almost any emergency.
Know your embassy's number. They're there to help their citizens — use them.
Document everything. Police reports, receipts, photos. Without documentation, insurance claims fail.
Stay calm. Panicking makes every situation worse. Thailand has dealt with tourist emergencies for decades — there is a system, and it works.
Prevention beats response. Copies of documents, money split in different places, buddy system, registered with embassy — these simple steps prevent most emergencies from becoming crises.
Insurance is non-negotiable. Everything in this guide gets exponentially easier when you have good travel insurance. Everything gets exponentially harder (and more expensive) without it.

Related Guides

This guide is updated regularly based on current embassy information, emergency procedures, and traveler reports. Last verified: February 2026. Embassy contact details can change — verify directly before traveling. If you find outdated information, please let us know.