Thailand Health Guide for Travelers: Vaccinations, Hospitals & Insurance (2026)

Here's the truth: Thailand has some of the best medical care in Southeast Asia. Bangkok's private hospitals rival anything in Europe or North America, medical costs are a fraction of Western prices, and pharmacies sell almost everything over the counter. You're in good hands.

But here's the other truth: Without travel insurance, a single motorbike accident can cost you 200,000-500,000 THB (US$5,500-14,000). Dengue fever is real and there's no cure. Food poisoning will hit at least half of all travelers. And rabies from dog or monkey bites is fatal if untreated.

This guide covers everything you need to know about staying healthy in Thailand — from pre-trip vaccinations to finding English-speaking hospitals, managing common illnesses, and knowing exactly what to do in a medical emergency.

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Pre-Trip: Vaccinations You Need

Visit a travel clinic 6-8 weeks before your trip. Some vaccines require multiple doses spread over weeks, and your body needs time to build immunity. Don't leave this to the last minute.

Required Vaccinations

Thailand doesn't require any vaccinations for entry from most Western countries, with one exception:

| Vaccine | Requirement | Details | |---------|-------------|---------| | Yellow Fever | Required IF traveling from an endemic country | You need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from Africa or South America. Not required from the US, UK, Europe, Australia, etc. | | COVID-19 | No longer required | As of 2026, Thailand does not require proof of COVID vaccination for entry |

Strongly Recommended Vaccinations

These are not legally required, but any travel doctor will tell you to get them:

| Vaccine | Why You Need It | Doses | Timing | Approximate Cost | |---------|-----------------|-------|--------|-------------------| | Hepatitis A | Contaminated food/water. Very common in Southeast Asia | 2 doses (0, 6-12 months) | First dose at least 2 weeks before travel | US$50-100 per dose | | Hepatitis B | Blood/bodily fluids. Risk from tattoos, medical treatment, sexual contact | 3 doses (0, 1 month, 6 months) | Start 6 months before travel (accelerated schedule available) | US$50-75 per dose | | Typhoid | Contaminated food/water, especially from street food | 1 injection OR 4 oral capsules | At least 2 weeks before travel | US$50-100 | | Tetanus/Diphtheria | Dirty wounds, animal bites. Booster needed every 10 years | 1 booster if not current | Any time before travel | US$30-60 |

Recommended for Some Travelers

Depending on your travel style, these may be worth getting:

| Vaccine | Who Needs It | Why | Cost | |---------|-------------|-----|------| | Japanese Encephalitis | Staying 1+ month, rural areas, rice paddies, rainy season travel | Mosquito-borne viral infection affecting the brain. Rare but devastating | US$200-350 for 2 doses | | Rabies (pre-exposure) | Trekkers, animal lovers, remote area travelers, children | Dogs and monkeys everywhere. Pre-exposure shots simplify treatment if bitten | US$200-400 for 3 doses | | Cholera | Travelers with weak immune systems | Oral vaccine. Risk is very low for most travelers | US$30-50 | | Influenza | Elderly travelers, those with chronic conditions | Flu circulates year-round in tropical climates | US$20-40 |

Where to Get Vaccinations

In the US:

• CVS MinuteClinic or Walgreens
• Your primary care doctor
• Travel clinics (Passport Health, CIWEC)

In the UK:

• NHS travel vaccination services (some vaccines free on NHS)
• Private travel clinics (Nomad Travel, CityDoc)

In Australia:

• Travel Doctor (TMVC) clinics
• Your GP

In Thailand (if you missed pre-trip):

• Thai Red Cross Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Bangkok — cheapest option
• Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Mahidol University, Bangkok
• Any major private hospital (more expensive but convenient)

Vaccination Tips

• Bring your vaccination record to Thailand — some hospitals want to see it
• Don't panic if you forgot — you can get most vaccines in Thailand for less than half the Western price
• Rabies pre-exposure is expensive at home but cheap in Thailand (about 350-500 THB per dose at the Thai Red Cross vs US$150+ per dose in the US)
• Keep a photo of your vaccination card on your phone

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Travel Insurance: Why You Absolutely Need It

This is not optional. This is the single most important thing you pack.

Real Horror Stories (Why Insurance Matters)

These are real scenarios that happen to backpackers in Thailand every year:

Motorbike accident on Koh Phangan: British backpacker crashes on a potholed road, breaks collarbone and femur. Airlifted to Bangkok Hospital Koh Samui. Total bill: 487,000 THB (US$13,500). Without insurance, he had to set up a GoFundMe.

Appendicitis in Chiang Mai: Australian traveler needs emergency appendectomy at Rajavej Hospital. Private room, surgery, 3-night stay: 185,000 THB (US$5,100). Her insurance covered every baht.

Scooter accident in Pai: Canadian backpacker goes over a cliff edge, suffers head trauma. Medevac helicopter to Chiang Mai, emergency brain surgery, ICU for 2 weeks: 1,200,000+ THB (US$33,000+). Family had to remortgage their house.

Dengue fever in Bangkok: American digital nomad hospitalized for 5 days with severe dengue. IV fluids, blood tests every 6 hours, private room: 95,000 THB (US$2,600). Covered by SafetyWing.

What to Look for in Travel Insurance

Not all insurance is equal. Here's what backpackers specifically need:

| Feature | Minimum Coverage | Why | |---------|-----------------|-----| | Medical expenses | US$100,000+ | A serious accident can easily hit this | | Medical evacuation | US$300,000+ | Helicopter to Bangkok or repatriation home | | Motorbike/scooter coverage | Explicitly included | THE most common backpacker claim — many policies exclude it | | Adventure activities | Diving, trekking, rock climbing | Standard policies often exclude these | | Trip cancellation | US$5,000+ | Flights, bookings, pre-paid tours | | Personal belongings | US$1,000-2,000 | Phone, laptop, camera gear | | 24/7 emergency helpline | English-speaking | You need to call someone at 3 AM |

Critical: Motorbike Coverage

Read this carefully. Most basic travel insurance policies do not cover motorbike or scooter accidents unless:

1. You have a valid motorcycle license from your home country (International Driving Permit alone is often not enough)
2. You were wearing a helmet at the time of the accident
3. The bike was under 125cc (some policies specify this)
4. You were not under the influence of alcohol

If you plan to rent a scooter (and most backpackers do — see our scooter rental guide), make absolutely sure your policy covers motorbike use. Call your insurer and get written confirmation.

Recommended Insurance Providers for Backpackers

| Provider | Best For | Monthly Cost | Key Feature | |----------|----------|--------------|-------------| | SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Digital nomads, long-term travelers | ~US$45/month | Month-to-month, no end date needed | | World Nomads | Backpackers, adventure travelers | ~US$60-100/month | Covers adventure sports by default | | True Traveller | UK-based backpackers | ~£40-60/month | Good motorbike coverage options | | Allianz Travel | General travelers, families | Varies | Strong global network | | IMG Global | Long-term expats | ~US$50-80/month | Good for extended stays |

Insurance Tips

• Buy insurance BEFORE you leave home — pre-existing conditions from your trip won't be covered if you buy mid-trip
• Screenshot your policy number and emergency phone number — save them in your phone AND email them to yourself
• Know your deductible — SafetyWing has a US$250 deductible per claim, which means minor doctor visits come out of pocket
• Keep ALL receipts — every hospital bill, pharmacy receipt, police report. You'll need them for claims
• Report incidents within 24-48 hours to your insurer — late reporting can void your claim

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Hospitals in Thailand: Where to Go

Thailand's private hospitals are genuinely world-class. Bangkok is a global medical tourism hub, with hospitals that hold JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation — the same standard as top US hospitals.

Bangkok Hospitals

| Hospital | Specialty | English Staff | Location | Emergency Number | |----------|-----------|---------------|----------|-----------------| | Bumrungrad International | Medical tourism leader, JCI accredited | Excellent — interpreters for 30+ languages | Sukhumvit Soi 3 | 02-066-8888 | | BNH Hospital | General, expat-friendly, less expensive than Bumrungrad | Very good | Silom/Sathorn | 02-022-0700 | | Bangkok Hospital | Large network, good emergency dept | Very good | Multiple locations | 02-310-3000 | | Samitivej Hospital | Good pediatrics, general care | Very good | Sukhumvit Soi 49 | 02-022-2222 | | MedPark Hospital | Newest luxury hospital in Bangkok | Excellent | Rama IV Rd | 02-023-3333 | | Ramathibodi Hospital | Public teaching hospital, cheapest option | Limited | Rama VI Rd | 02-201-1000 | | Siriraj Hospital | Public, oldest hospital in Thailand | Limited | Thonburi (across river) | 02-419-7000 |

Budget tip: BNH Hospital offers quality similar to Bumrungrad at roughly 30-40% lower prices. If you're paying out of pocket, it's the best value private hospital in Bangkok.

Chiang Mai Hospitals

| Hospital | Notes | Emergency Number | |----------|-------|-----------------| | Rajavej Chiang Mai Hospital | Best private hospital in the city, English-speaking staff | 052-001-777 | | Lanna Hospital | Good private option, slightly cheaper | 053-999-777 | | Chiang Mai Ram Hospital | Good emergency department | 053-920-300 | | Maharaj Nakorn Hospital | Public teaching hospital (Chiang Mai University), very cheap but crowded | 053-935-555 | | Suan Dok Hospital | Public, attached to CMU Medical School | 053-935-555 |

Phuket Hospitals

| Hospital | Notes | Emergency Number | |----------|-------|-----------------| | Bangkok Hospital Phuket | Best on the island, JCI accredited, full English staff | 076-254-421 | | Phuket International Hospital | Good alternative, slightly cheaper | 076-249-400 | | Vachira Phuket Hospital | Public hospital, basic English, very cheap | 076-361-234 | | Dibuk Hospital | Small private hospital in Phuket Town | 076-210-935 |

Koh Samui Hospitals

| Hospital | Notes | Emergency Number | |----------|-------|-----------------| | Bangkok Hospital Koh Samui | Part of the Bangkok Hospital network, best on island | 077-429-500 | | Thai International Hospital Samui | Good private option | 077-230-781 | | Koh Samui Hospital | Public, basic but handles most issues | 077-421-230 |

Island and Remote Area Hospitals

| Location | Nearest Hospital | Notes | |----------|-----------------|-------| | Koh Phangan | Koh Phangan Hospital (public) | Basic facility. Serious cases transferred to Koh Samui by speedboat | | Koh Tao | Koh Tao Health Promoting Hospital | Very basic. Serious issues require boat to Koh Samui (2 hours) | | Koh Lanta | Koh Lanta Hospital | Small. Serious cases go to Krabi Hospital on mainland | | Koh Chang | Koh Chang International Clinic + Koh Chang Hospital | Basic. Serious cases go to Trat Hospital | | Pai | Pai Hospital | Small public hospital. Serious cases go to Chiang Mai (3-hour drive) | | Railay Beach | None — must boat to Ao Nang, then Krabi Hospital | No road access. Medical emergencies require boat transfer |

Key takeaway: If you're on a remote island and have a serious injury or illness, you will likely need to be transferred to the mainland. This is why medical evacuation coverage in your insurance is essential.

Private vs. Public Hospitals

| Factor | Private Hospital | Public Hospital | |--------|-----------------|-----------------| | Cost | 10-50x more expensive | Very cheap (often under 500 THB for a visit) | | Wait time | Minutes to 1 hour | 2-8+ hours | | English | Full English-speaking staff | Limited to none | | Facilities | Modern, clean, hotel-like rooms | Basic, shared wards | | Quality of care | Excellent | Good doctors, but overworked and under-resourced | | Insurance acceptance | Most accept international insurance directly | Usually cash only, you claim back later |

When public hospitals are fine:

• Minor ailments (cold, mild food poisoning, small cuts)
• You speak basic Thai or have a Thai-speaking friend
• You're on a tight budget and the issue isn't urgent

When you need a private hospital:

• Anything requiring surgery
• Broken bones or serious injuries
• You need English-speaking doctors
• You have insurance that covers private care
• It's an emergency and you need immediate attention

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Common Illnesses and How to Handle Them

Food Poisoning and Traveler's Diarrhea

How common: Extremely. At least 30-50% of travelers to Thailand experience some digestive issues, especially in the first week. Your gut needs time to adjust to new bacteria, spices, and water conditions.

Symptoms:

• Watery diarrhea (sometimes explosive)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Low-grade fever
• Loss of appetite

Prevention:

• Wash hands frequently (carry hand sanitizer)
• Never drink tap water — always bottled (check the seal)
• Eat at busy stalls (high turnover = fresh food)
• Make sure meat is cooked through
• Be cautious with raw salads that may have been washed in tap water
• Peel fruits yourself rather than buying pre-cut
• Avoid buffets that have been sitting out

Treatment:

1. Stay hydrated — this is the #1 priority. Dehydration from diarrhea is the real danger.
2. ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) — available at every 7-Eleven and pharmacy for 5-15 THB per packet. Mix with bottled water. Drink constantly.
3. Imodium (loperamide) — stops diarrhea symptoms. Available at any pharmacy for about 30-50 THB. Good for bus journeys, but it doesn't treat the cause — just stops the symptom.
4. Electrolyte drinks — Pocari Sweat, Gatorade, or coconut water from 7-Eleven
5. BRAT diet — Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast. Plain white rice (khao plao) from any food stall.

When to see a doctor:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days
• Blood or mucus in stool
• High fever (above 38.5°C / 101.3°F)
• Signs of severe dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, no tears)
• Inability to keep any fluids down for more than 6 hours

Typical treatment cost: 500-1,500 THB at a clinic, 2,000-5,000 THB at a private hospital (includes consultation, stool test, and medication)

Dengue Fever

How serious: Very. Dengue is the most significant mosquito-borne illness risk in Thailand. There is no vaccine widely available for travelers and no cure — only symptom management. Most cases resolve on their own, but severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever) can be life-threatening.

When it peaks: Rainy season (June-November), but cases occur year-round. Urban areas have dengue too — it's not just a jungle disease.

The mosquito: Aedes aegypti mosquitoes bite during daytime, especially dawn and dusk. Unlike malaria mosquitoes, these are active when you're awake.

Symptoms (appear 4-10 days after bite):

• Sudden high fever (40°C / 104°F)
• Severe headache, especially behind the eyes
• Intense joint and muscle pain (hence "breakbone fever")
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash appearing 2-5 days after fever onset
• Mild bleeding (nose, gums)
• Fatigue lasting weeks after recovery

Warning signs of SEVERE dengue (seek hospital IMMEDIATELY):

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bleeding from gums or nose that won't stop
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Rapid breathing
• Restlessness or lethargy
• Cold, clammy skin

Prevention:

• DEET-based insect repellent (20-30% DEET) — reapply every 4-6 hours. Available at 7-Eleven and pharmacies for 50-150 THB
• Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk
• Stay in accommodation with screens or AC — mosquitoes don't like cold air
• Use mosquito coils in budget guesthouses (available everywhere, 20-40 THB for a pack)
• No standing water — mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Empty any containers in your room
• Permethrin-treated clothing — treat your clothes before the trip or buy pre-treated gear

Treatment:

• No antibiotics — dengue is a virus, antibiotics do nothing
• No aspirin or ibuprofen — these thin the blood and increase bleeding risk. Use paracetamol (acetaminophen) ONLY for fever and pain
• Hydration — ORS, water, coconut water
• Rest — your body fights it off. Recovery takes 1-2 weeks, sometimes longer
• Hospital monitoring — if severe, you'll need blood platelet monitoring (blood tests every 6-12 hours)

Cost of treatment: 50,000-150,000 THB for hospitalization at a private hospital (5-7 days is typical)

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Thailand is hot. Really hot. Temperatures regularly hit 35-40°C (95-104°F) with high humidity, and your body isn't used to it.

Heat exhaustion symptoms:

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness and fatigue
• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Cool, moist skin

Heat stroke symptoms (MEDICAL EMERGENCY):

• Body temperature above 40°C (104°F)
• Confusion, slurred speech, agitation
• No sweating (body's cooling has failed)
• Rapid heartbeat
• Loss of consciousness

Prevention:

• Drink at minimum 3 liters of water daily (more if active)
• Avoid intense activity between 11 AM - 3 PM
• Wear light, loose, breathable clothing
• Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces (7-Eleven is your friend)
• Eat salty foods to replace electrolytes
• Gradually acclimatize — don't do a 10-hour temple tour on day 1
• Wear sunscreen (SPF 50+) and a hat

Treatment for heat exhaustion:

1. Move to shade or AC immediately
2. Lie down and elevate legs
3. Remove excess clothing
4. Cool with wet towels, ice packs on neck/armpits/groin
5. Drink cool water or electrolytes slowly
6. Rest for the remainder of the day

Treatment for heat stroke:

1. Call ambulance (1669) immediately
2. Move to shade, remove clothing
3. Cool by any means possible — wet towels, ice, fanning
4. Do NOT give fluids if unconscious
5. This is life-threatening — hospital treatment required

Motorbike and Scooter Injuries

The uncomfortable truth: Motorbike accidents are the number one cause of injury and death among foreign tourists in Thailand. Every single day, backpackers crash scooters. Koh Phangan, Pai, and Phuket are the worst areas.

Common injuries:

• Road rash (skin scraping from sliding on asphalt)
• Broken collarbone, wrist, or leg
• Head injuries (many riders don't wear helmets)
• Facial injuries
• Deep lacerations requiring stitches

What happens at the hospital:

1. Emergency department triages you
2. Wounds cleaned (this is extremely painful — road rash cleaning is brutal)
3. X-rays for suspected fractures
4. Stitches for deep cuts
5. Tetanus booster if needed
6. Antibiotics prescribed
7. Follow-up appointments for wound changes

Costs (private hospital):

| Treatment | Approximate Cost (THB) | Approximate Cost (USD) | |-----------|----------------------|----------------------| | Emergency room visit + wound cleaning | 3,000-8,000 | 85-220 | | X-rays | 1,000-3,000 | 28-85 | | Stitches (minor) | 2,000-5,000 | 55-140 | | Broken bone (cast + follow-up) | 15,000-40,000 | 420-1,100 | | Surgery (fracture repair) | 80,000-300,000 | 2,200-8,300 | | ICU per day | 30,000-80,000 | 830-2,200 | | Medical evacuation helicopter | 200,000-500,000 | 5,500-14,000 |

Insurance and motorbike injuries: Check your policy NOW. Many policies exclude motorbike accidents, especially if you:

• Don't have a motorcycle license from your home country
• Weren't wearing a helmet
• Were riding a bike over 125cc
• Were under the influence of alcohol

For our detailed guide, see Scooter Rental in Thailand.

Jellyfish Stings

Where: Gulf of Thailand islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) and Andaman coast. Box jellyfish are the most dangerous — their sting can be fatal, though deaths are rare.

When: Rainy season (June-October) is highest risk, but jellyfish can appear year-round.

Types in Thai waters:

| Jellyfish | Danger Level | Location | |-----------|-------------|----------| | Box jellyfish (Chironex) | Potentially fatal | Gulf islands, especially Koh Samui/Phangan | | Portuguese Man o' War | Very painful, rarely fatal | Andaman coast | | Moon jellyfish | Mild sting | Everywhere | | Bluefire jellyfish | Painful but not dangerous | Gulf of Thailand |

Treatment:

1. Get out of the water immediately
2. Pour vinegar over the sting — this deactivates unfired stinging cells. Most beaches and resorts stock vinegar. (The "pee on it" myth is FALSE — urine can make it worse)
3. Remove tentacles carefully with tweezers or a credit card edge — never rub with your hands
4. DO NOT use fresh water, ice directly on the sting, or alcohol — these can trigger more stinging cells
5. Take paracetamol for pain (not aspirin or ibuprofen — they increase bleeding risk)
6. Seek hospital if: difficulty breathing, chest pain, extensive sting covering large area, sting on face or genitals, or any signs of anaphylaxis

Prevention:

• Check local warnings (hotels usually post them)
• Wear a stinger suit or rashguard when swimming in jellyfish season
• Avoid swimming after storms (jellyfish wash in)
• Don't touch jellyfish on the beach — they can still sting when dead

Animal Bites: Dogs and Monkeys

Dogs: Thailand has an estimated 8-10 million stray dogs. Most are harmless, but some are territorial, especially at night. Dog bites are a genuine rabies risk.

Monkeys: Found at temples, tourist sites, and some beaches (especially Lopburi, Krabi, and Koh Phi Phi). They will steal food, bags, sunglasses — and they bite when they feel threatened.

Rabies: What You Need to Know

Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear. There is no cure for symptomatic rabies. It is transmitted through saliva from an infected animal — bites, scratches, or licks on broken skin.

Thailand has one of the highest rates of rabies in Southeast Asia. This is not an exaggeration. Take any animal bite seriously.

What to do if bitten:

1. Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. This is the single most important thing you can do. It significantly reduces infection risk.
2. Apply antiseptic — iodine solution (Betadine) or alcohol
3. Do NOT close the wound with bandages or stitches (allows draining)
4. Go to a hospital within 24 hours — ideally within a few hours
5. Get post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP):
   • If you had pre-exposure vaccine: 2 additional doses (day 0 and day 3)
   • If you did NOT have pre-exposure vaccine: 4-5 doses over 14-28 days PLUS rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) on day 0

Where to get rabies PEP in Thailand:

| City | Facility | Notes | |------|----------|-------| | Bangkok | Thai Red Cross Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute | Best and cheapest option for rabies treatment in Thailand | | Bangkok | Bumrungrad, BNH, Bangkok Hospital | More expensive but convenient | | Chiang Mai | Rajavej Hospital, Maharaj Hospital | Both stock rabies vaccines | | Phuket | Bangkok Hospital Phuket | Stocks rabies vaccines and RIG | | Any city | Most provincial hospitals | Stock rabies vaccines |

Cost of rabies PEP:

• Thai Red Cross: approximately 200-350 THB per dose
• Private hospital: approximately 1,500-3,000 THB per dose
• Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG): 5,000-15,000 THB (depends on body weight)
• Total course without pre-exposure: 15,000-45,000 THB at private hospital

Prevention:

• Don't pet stray dogs, no matter how friendly they seem
• Don't feed monkeys or approach them with food visible
• Keep food in sealed bags away from monkeys
• If a monkey approaches you, stay calm, don't make eye contact, back away slowly
• If a dog growls or shows teeth, stand still, don't run (running triggers chase instinct)

Malaria

Good news: Malaria risk in Thailand is very low for most travelers. The main tourist areas — Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, and the islands — are malaria-free.

Where malaria exists: Border regions with Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia, and Laos, particularly in forested areas. Some remote national parks in Kanchanaburi, Tak, and Trat provinces.

Most travelers do NOT need anti-malarial medication. Discuss with your travel doctor based on your specific itinerary. If you're staying on the standard backpacker route, you're fine without it.

If you do need anti-malarials:

• Doxycycline — cheapest option, but causes sun sensitivity (bad in Thailand)
• Malarone (atovaquone/proguanil) — most popular, fewer side effects, but expensive
• Mefloquine (Lariam) — weekly dose, but known for vivid dreams and psychological side effects

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Pharmacies: Your First Stop for Minor Issues

Thai pharmacies are incredible. You can buy almost everything over the counter that would require a prescription in Western countries, including:

• Antibiotics (amoxicillin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin)
• Strong painkillers (tramadol in some pharmacies)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Antihistamines
• Antifungal creams
• Rehydration salts
• Birth control pills
• EpiPens (limited availability)
• Asthma inhalers

Major Pharmacy Chains

| Chain | Locations | English | Price Level | |-------|-----------|---------|-------------| | Boots | Major cities, shopping malls | Good | Mid-range | | Watsons | Everywhere, malls, high streets | Good | Mid-range | | Fascino | Shopping malls | Some | Mid-range | | Independent pharmacies | Everywhere, especially near hospitals | Varies | Cheapest |

Useful Medications to Know

| Medication | Thai Brand Name | Use | Approximate Price | |------------|----------------|-----|-------------------| | Paracetamol (Tylenol) | Sara, Tylenol | Pain, fever | 15-30 THB | | Ibuprofen | Brufen, Nurofen | Pain, inflammation | 20-50 THB | | Loperamide (Imodium) | Imodium, Lomotil | Stops diarrhea | 30-80 THB | | ORS packets | ORS-T | Dehydration | 5-15 THB per packet | | Ciprofloxacin | Ciprobay | Bacterial diarrhea (use with caution) | 50-150 THB | | Azithromycin | Zithromax | Bacterial infection | 100-300 THB | | Amoxicillin | Amoxil | General antibiotic | 30-80 THB | | Cetirizine | Zyrtec | Allergies, mosquito bite itch | 15-40 THB | | Clotrimazole cream | Canesten | Fungal infections (common in humidity) | 50-100 THB | | Hydrocortisone cream | Various | Insect bites, rashes | 30-80 THB | | Betadine | Betadine | Wound antiseptic | 40-80 THB | | Deet insect repellent | Soffell, OFF! | Mosquito prevention | 50-150 THB | | Dimenhydrinate | Dramamine | Motion sickness (ferries, buses) | 20-50 THB |

Pharmacy Tips

• Don't self-prescribe antibiotics unless you know what you're treating — antibiotic resistance is a real global problem
• Check expiry dates — some small pharmacies stock expired medications
• Pharmacists are helpful — describe your symptoms and they'll recommend something. Many speak English.
• Bring your prescription medications from home in their original labeled bottles, with a copy of the prescription
• Controlled substances (e.g., codeine, strong sleeping pills, ADHD meds like Adderall/Ritalin) may be restricted — carry a doctor's letter
• 7-Eleven stocks basics: paracetamol, ORS packets, Band-Aids, electrolyte drinks, antiseptic wipes

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Dental and Eye Care: Surprisingly Affordable

Thailand is a major medical tourism destination for dental and eye care. Quality is excellent at private clinics, and prices are 50-80% less than in Western countries.

Dental Care

Why consider it: If you need dental work, Thailand might be the cheapest quality option you'll ever find.

| Procedure | Thailand Price (THB) | US Price (USD) | Savings | |-----------|---------------------|----------------|---------| | Check-up and cleaning | 800-1,500 | $150-300 | 80%+ | | Filling (composite) | 1,000-3,000 | $200-500 | 75%+ | | Crown (ceramic) | 8,000-15,000 | $800-1,500 | 60%+ | | Root canal | 5,000-12,000 | $700-1,200 | 60%+ | | Tooth extraction | 800-3,000 | $150-400 | 75%+ | | Teeth whitening | 3,000-8,000 | $500-1,000 | 65%+ | | Dental implant | 25,000-45,000 | $3,000-5,000 | 60%+ |

Recommended dental clinics:

• Bangkok: Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC), Smile Signature
• Chiang Mai: Dental 4 U, Grace Dental Clinic
• Phuket: Phuket Dental Signature, Sea Smile Dental Clinic

Eye Care

| Service | Thailand Price (THB) | US Price (USD) | |---------|---------------------|----------------| | Eye exam | 500-1,500 | $100-250 | | Prescription glasses | 1,500-5,000 | $200-500 | | Contact lenses (box) | 500-1,500 | $50-100 | | LASIK (per eye) | 25,000-50,000 | $2,000-3,000 |

Tip: If you wear glasses or contacts, bring your prescription. Getting new glasses made in Thailand is fast (often same-day) and very affordable.

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Mental Health on the Road

This doesn't get talked about enough. Extended travel can take a toll on your mental health, and Thailand's backpacker culture — with its emphasis on partying and constant socializing — can make it worse.

Common Mental Health Challenges

• Culture shock: Thailand is culturally very different from Western countries. The initial excitement wears off, and frustration can set in.
• Loneliness: Solo travel sounds romantic until you're eating alone for the 15th day in a row.
• Comparison syndrome: Everyone else on Instagram is having the time of their life. You feel like you should be too.
• Decision fatigue: Where to go next? What to eat? Which hostel? Constant decision-making is exhausting.
• Post-party blues: Heavy drinking culture on the islands can lead to anxiety and depression.
• Burnout: Traveling is not a vacation — moving every few days with a heavy backpack is physically and mentally draining.

What to Do

• Slow down — stay in one place for a week instead of moving every 2-3 days
• Establish routine — morning coffee at the same cafe, regular exercise, cooking for yourself
• Connect with people — hostels, coworking spaces, Meetup groups, Couchsurfing hangouts
• Limit alcohol — the backpacker party scene is fun but hangovers amplify anxiety
• Exercise — Muay Thai gyms, yoga studios, running groups are everywhere in Thailand
• Journal — writing helps process experiences
• Call home — sometimes you just need to hear a familiar voice

Professional Help in Thailand

• Online therapy: BetterHelp, Talkspace work globally
• Bangkok counseling: The Counseling Hub Bangkok, Mind Enhancement Centre
• Chiang Mai: Mindful Clinic, CMU Counseling Center
• Crisis lines: Samaritans of Thailand (02-713-6793, available 24/7, English-speaking)

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Water and Hygiene Basics

Water Rules

NEVER drink tap water in Thailand. This is non-negotiable. Thai tap water contains bacteria and sediments that will make you sick.

• Bottled water: 7-10 THB for 500ml at 7-Eleven, 15-20 THB for 1.5L. Always check the seal is intact.
• Refill stations: Many hostels and guesthouses have filtered water refill stations. Bring a reusable bottle.
• Brushing teeth: Use bottled water to be safe, especially in your first week. After that, tap water is usually fine for brushing (you're not swallowing much).

Is the Ice Safe?

Usually yes. Most ice in Thailand is factory-made from purified water. You can identify factory ice by its:

• Cylindrical shape with a hole through the middle — this is safe
• Crescent or cube shape from machines — usually safe
• Irregularly shaped chunks that look hand-chipped — potentially unsafe (rarer these days)

In tourist areas, restaurants, and bars, the ice is almost always factory-made and perfectly safe.

Food Hygiene

• Street food is generally safe — the food is cooked to order at high temperatures, killing bacteria
• High turnover stalls are safest — a busy stall means fresh ingredients
• Look for visible flames — stir-fried dishes cooked over high heat are the safest
• Be more cautious with: raw salads, pre-cut fruit (if not peeled), smoothies from unknown sources, buffets sitting at room temperature
• Fresh seafood: Check that it was alive recently. Smell it. If it smells strongly fishy, avoid it.

For detailed food safety tips, see our Thai Street Food Guide.

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Emergency Medical Procedure: Step by Step

If you or someone you're traveling with needs emergency medical care, here's exactly what to do:

Step 1: Assess the Situation

• Is the person conscious and breathing?
• Is there severe bleeding?
• Can they move safely?

Step 2: Call for Help

| Number | Service | Language | |--------|---------|----------| | 1669 | Ambulance / Emergency Medical Services | Thai (some English) | | 1155 | Tourist Police | English | | 191 | Police | Thai |

Important: Thai ambulances can be slow, especially on islands or in rural areas. If possible, take a taxi or Grab to the nearest hospital — it's often faster.

Step 3: Get to the Hospital

• In cities: Grab taxi or regular taxi to nearest private hospital
• On islands: Contact your hotel/hostel — they know the fastest route
• If unconscious or unable to move: Call 1669 and 1155 simultaneously. Tourist Police can coordinate in English.

Step 4: At the Hospital

1. Emergency department triage — they assess severity and prioritize
2. Passport and insurance info — bring your passport and insurance card/policy number
3. Deposit required — private hospitals may ask for a cash deposit (credit card or cash). Amounts vary: 10,000-50,000 THB depending on the situation
4. Contact your insurance — call their 24/7 emergency line. They can often coordinate directly with the hospital for payment
5. If no insurance or money: Hospitals will still treat you in a genuine emergency. You sort payment afterward. Public hospitals are legally required to provide emergency care.

Step 5: Documentation

Save everything:

• Hospital admission forms
• Doctor's reports and diagnoses
• All receipts (medical, pharmacy, ambulance)
• Photos of injuries
• Police report (if accident or assault)

You'll need all of this for insurance claims.

Step 6: Contact Your Embassy

For serious medical situations, your embassy can:

• Help communicate with doctors
• Contact your family back home
• Assist with medical evacuation arrangements
• Provide a list of vetted English-speaking doctors
• Advance emergency funds in extreme cases (you must repay)

See our Thailand Emergency Guide for full embassy contact details.

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Common Medical Costs (Private Hospitals)

This table gives you realistic price ranges for common treatments at private hospitals in Bangkok. Prices outside Bangkok may be 20-40% lower.

| Treatment | Price Range (THB) | Price Range (USD) | |-----------|-------------------|-------------------| | Doctor consultation (general) | 800-2,000 | 22-55 | | Doctor consultation (specialist) | 1,500-3,500 | 42-97 | | Blood test (basic panel) | 500-2,000 | 14-55 | | Dengue blood test | 500-1,500 | 14-42 | | Chest X-ray | 800-2,000 | 22-55 | | Ultrasound | 2,000-5,000 | 55-140 | | MRI scan | 8,000-18,000 | 220-500 | | CT scan | 5,000-15,000 | 140-420 | | Wound cleaning and dressing | 500-2,000 | 14-55 | | Stitches (minor wound) | 2,000-5,000 | 55-140 | | Cast for broken bone | 3,000-8,000 | 85-220 | | Minor surgery (day case) | 15,000-50,000 | 420-1,400 | | Appendectomy | 80,000-200,000 | 2,200-5,500 | | ICU (per day) | 30,000-80,000 | 830-2,200 | | Private room (per day) | 3,000-10,000 | 85-280 | | Ambulance (within city) | 1,000-5,000 | 28-140 | | Medical evacuation (helicopter) | 200,000-500,000 | 5,500-14,000 |

Comparison note: An appendectomy that costs 80,000-200,000 THB (US$2,200-5,500) in Thailand would cost US$30,000-50,000 in the US without insurance. This is why Thailand is a medical tourism destination.

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Fungal Infections: The Humidity Problem

Thailand's heat and humidity create the perfect environment for fungal infections. These are extremely common among travelers, especially those staying in humid guesthouses or spending time in wet conditions.

Common Types

• Athlete's foot: Between the toes, itchy, peeling skin
• Jock itch: Groin area, red rash, very common in hot climates
• Ringworm: Circular red rash on body, not actually a worm
• Prickly heat (heat rash): Red bumps from blocked sweat glands

Prevention

• Keep skin dry — change sweaty clothes promptly
• Wear breathable fabrics (cotton or moisture-wicking synthetics)
• Use talcum powder or antifungal powder in areas prone to moisture
• Dry feet thoroughly after showering, especially between toes
• Wear flip-flops in shared showers (hostels, guesthouses)
• Let shoes and sandals air out — alternate between pairs

Treatment

• Clotrimazole cream (Canesten): Available at any pharmacy, 50-100 THB. Apply twice daily for 2-4 weeks.
• Miconazole cream: Alternative antifungal, similar price
• Antifungal powder: Sprinkle in shoes and on affected areas
• Prickly heat powder: "Prickly Heat" brand is sold at every 7-Eleven and pharmacy, 30-60 THB. Contains menthol for cooling.
• If it doesn't improve after 2 weeks of treatment, see a doctor — it might be bacterial, not fungal

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Sun Protection

The Thai sun is intense. Thailand is close to the equator, and UV radiation is significantly stronger than in temperate countries. Sunburn can happen in 15-20 minutes, even on cloudy days.

Sun Protection Strategy

• Sunscreen: SPF 50+, broad spectrum (UVA + UVB). Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure, reapply every 2 hours and after swimming. Available at 7-Eleven, Boots, and Watsons (80-300 THB).
• Cover up: Long-sleeve rashguard for snorkeling/diving, wide-brim hat, UV-protective sunglasses
• Timing: Avoid peak sun between 10 AM - 3 PM if possible
• Hydrate: Sun exposure increases dehydration risk

Sunburn Treatment

• Aloe vera gel: Available at pharmacies and 7-Eleven (50-100 THB). Apply generously.
• Cool compresses: Wet towel on affected areas
• Paracetamol: For pain
• Stay out of the sun until fully healed
• Severe sunburn (blistering, fever, chills): see a doctor — you may need prescription-strength treatment

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STIs and Sexual Health

Thailand has a significant sex industry, and STI rates are higher than in many Western countries. Whether you're single and meeting people on the backpacker trail or otherwise, protect yourself.

Prevention

• Condoms: Available at every 7-Eleven and pharmacy (30-80 THB for a pack). Thai brands (One-Touch, Play Boy) are fine. International brands (Durex, Okamoto) also available.
• PrEP (HIV prevention): Available at Thai Red Cross Anonymous Clinic and Bumrungrad. Much cheaper than in Western countries.
• Regular testing: Many private hospitals offer rapid STI panels (results in 1-3 days, 2,000-5,000 THB)

Post-Exposure

If you've had unprotected sex or a condom broke:

• HIV PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Must start within 72 hours (ideally within 24). Available at major hospital emergency departments. 28-day course.
• Emergency contraception: "Morning after pill" available OTC at pharmacies for 30-50 THB. Most effective within 24 hours, can work up to 72 hours.
• STI testing: Wait 2 weeks for most STIs, 4-12 weeks for HIV (with modern tests)

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Travel Health Kit: What to Pack

Don't overpack medications — Thai pharmacies have everything. But these basics save you a trip to the pharmacy when you're feeling rough:

Essential Items

• Paracetamol/acetaminophen — pain and fever (don't rely on finding your specific brand)
• Imodium (loperamide) — emergency diarrhea relief for bus journeys
• ORS packets (3-5) — space for nothing, potentially save you
• Antihistamines (cetirizine) — allergic reactions, mosquito bite itch
• DEET insect repellent (20-30%) — or buy in Thailand
• Band-aids and antiseptic wipes — minor cuts get infected fast in tropical heat
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ — first-day protection until you buy locally
• Any prescription medications — in original bottles with prescription copy
• Contraception — if needed
• Hand sanitizer — essential for street food situations

Nice to Have

• Hydrocortisone cream (insect bites, rashes)
• Antifungal cream (humidity-related infections)
• Dramamine (motion sickness for ferries and mountain roads)
• Tweezers (splinters, ticks, jellyfish tentacles)
• Digital thermometer (know your temperature)
• Zinc oxide tape (blister prevention for hiking)

Don't Bother Packing

• Large quantities of any OTC medication — it's cheaper in Thailand
• First aid kits beyond basics — pharmacies are everywhere
• Water purification tablets — bottled water is 7-10 THB
• Anti-malarial medication (unless going to border regions — discuss with doctor)

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Special Considerations

Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have a pre-existing medical condition:

• Bring enough medication for your entire trip plus 2 extra weeks
• Carry a doctor's letter explaining your condition and medications (in English)
• Know the generic names of your medications — brand names differ between countries
• Check if your medication is legal in Thailand — some medications that are legal in the West are controlled in Thailand (e.g., some ADHD medications, strong sleeping pills)
• Declare medications at customs if carrying large quantities
• Insurance disclosure: Most travel insurance requires you to declare pre-existing conditions. Failure to disclose can void your entire policy.

Diabetes

• Insulin is available in Thailand at pharmacies without prescription, and it's cheap (300-800 THB per vial vs US$300+ in the US)
• Carry your insulin in a thermal bag — heat destroys it
• Blood glucose monitors and test strips available at Boots and Watsons
• Thai food can be very sugary — specify "mai sai nam taan" (no sugar) when ordering drinks

Allergies

• Food allergies: Thai cuisine uses peanuts, shellfish, fish sauce, soy, and MSG extensively. Learn the Thai words for your allergens. Carry an allergy card in Thai (our Thai Food Allergen Guide covers this in detail).
• Anaphylaxis: Carry your EpiPen. Replacement auto-injectors are available at major hospital pharmacies but are expensive (5,000-10,000 THB).

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Key Takeaways

1. Get travel insurance — this is the most important thing in this entire guide. Without it, a single accident can bankrupt you.

2. Get your vaccinations — Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid at minimum. Consider rabies if you're on a long trip.

3. Know your nearest hospital — in each city or island you visit, identify the best hospital before you need it.

4. Never drink tap water — bottled water only. Ice is usually fine.

5. Protect against mosquitoes — DEET repellent, especially at dawn and dusk. Dengue is real.

6. Motorbike injuries are the biggest risk — if you rent one, wear a helmet, drive slowly, and make sure your insurance covers it.

7. Pharmacies are your friend — for minor issues, skip the hospital and go to a pharmacy first.

8. Keep documents and receipts — passport copies, insurance policy, all medical receipts.

9. Don't panic — Thailand has excellent medical care. Whatever happens, there's a hospital that can help you.

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Related Guides

• Thailand Safety Tips for Backpackers
• Scooter Rental in Thailand: Complete Safety Guide
• Solo Female Travel in Thailand
• Thailand Emergency Guide: What to Do When Things Go Wrong
• Thai Food Allergen Guide
• Thailand Packing List for Backpackers

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This guide is updated regularly based on current medical guidelines and traveler reports. Last verified: February 2026. Always consult a travel health professional for personalized medical advice before your trip.