Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Non-Thai travellers are required to submit the TDAC before entering Thailand. The official system says it can be submitted within 3 days before arrival, including the arrival date.
Official Thailand Immigration ↗TRAVEL SMART
The useful stuff before Thailand.
Entry information, common tourist traps, packing reminders and emergency contacts — with official sources where rules matter.
Information below last checked: 25 August 2026
IMPORTANT UPDATES
Things worth checking before you fly.
Rules can change quickly and eligibility can depend on your passport. Use these as prompts, then confirm with the official linked source.
Visa-exemption rules are being revised
Thailand's Cabinet approved changes to visa-exemption and Visa on Arrival schemes in May 2026. Because implementation depends on formal announcements and eligibility varies by passport, confirm the rule for your nationality before flying.
Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs ↗Check Thailand–Cambodia border advice
Current Australian travel advice warns against travel within 10 km of parts of the Thailand–Cambodia land border because of armed clashes and landmine risks. Check your own government's advice if your itinerary goes near border provinces.
Smartraveller advice ↗Leave e-cigarettes and vapes at home
Thai Customs lists electronic cigarettes and related products as prohibited imports. Don't assume airport or airline rules mean they are legal to bring into Thailand.
Thai Customs ↗COMMON TOURIST TRAPS
Recognise the setup before it becomes a problem.
- “The attraction is closed.” Someone redirects you to a different tour, shop or gem store. Verify at the attraction or official website.
- Taxi/tuk-tuk confusion. Confirm fare or meter expectations before moving and use reputable booking channels when practical.
- Rental damage disputes. Photograph motorbikes, cars or watercraft before taking them and understand the deposit and insurance terms.
- ATM and card fraud. Cover your PIN, use reputable ATMs and check the exchange-rate option before accepting a conversion.
- Too-good-to-be-true bookings. Double-check payment links, seller identity and what is actually included before transferring money.
PACK LIKE A REGULAR
The Thailand essentials.
Passport + entry documentsTravel insuranceLight breathable clothingTemple-friendly outfitSun protectionMosquito repellentComfortable walking shoesThai baht / payment backupPhone + eSIM/SIM planMedication + prescription details
Keep digital and offline copies of your passport, insurance and key bookings. Requirements vary by nationality and personal circumstances.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Save these before you travel.
For a real emergency, contact the appropriate Thai service first rather than waiting for a travel provider.
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