If you an avid shopping addict, then Bangkok offers you a wonderful shopping experience. With millions of things to indulge in at literally throw-away prices in Bangkok, you can be rest assured about the quality of the same. It is not easy for a new tourists or visitor to figure out where & what to buy in Thailand and what you should probably avoid. The short guide below will act as a Thailand Shopping Guide and help you complete your shopping experience. Browse through the awesome collection of designer goods, antiques, snacks, souvenirs, and silks – that are available across night markets, floating markets or even the luxurious mega malls. Shopping in Thailand is a pure test of your shopping stamina.

What to Buy in Bangkok

Thai Silk

The collection of Thai silk is simply unmatched and the quality is fantastic. Jim Thompson shops offer an amazing variety and top quality silk. Browse among the several vibrant colors of silk in clothing, scarves, ties, cushions and pillows, table runners and tablecloths, bedspreads, bags and wallets, and much more. You can count on the silk products as one of the best in business. Beware of the fakes as the street vendors at the market and beach are perfect in fooling foreign tourists.

Where to Buy:

• Jim Thompson House in Bangkok: Jim Thompson is a legendary figure in the Thai silk industry, and his shop offers some of the finest quality silk in the country.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok: The massive market is a great place to find affordable silk products, from scarves and ties to traditional silk robes.
• Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar: This northern city is also known for high-quality silk products, where you can pick up beautiful silk clothing and accessories.

What to Buy:

• Silk scarves, ties, and shawls
• Silk cushions, bedspreads, and table runners
• Traditional silk garments like Thai dresses (Chut Thai)

Fashion Clothing

If you fit into the Thai size, then probably you will have a great collection to choose from. The collection is available across every street and at tourist attractions. You can count on shopping as one of the serious things to do in Bangkok as the people out here are very conscious about their appearance. One of the popular stores where you will find cheap basic clothing is AIIZ. You will find shorts, t-shirts, trousers, and shirts at Thai prices.

If you wish to indulge in only designer labels, then there is an array of exclusive boutiques at every corner in Bangkok. The Pomelo shop sells authentic Thai fashion that includes work wear, exercise gear, and basic clothing at prices very similar to Zara. The mega malls of Bangkok are equipped with modern amenities and facilities which are more than sufficient to keep unenthusiastic shopping buddies busy so that you can shop till you drop. Do check out for fake goods as you purchase, as there are plenty in the store.

Where to Buy:

• Siam Square and MBK Center: Bangkok’s top shopping areas for trendy clothing, shoes, and accessories.
• Chatuchak Market: An extensive range of clothes, from casual wear to more traditional Thai-inspired garments.

What to Buy:

• Thai silk dresses and shirts
• Casual streetwear and contemporary fashion
• Handwoven scarves and accessories

Jewelry

The gem collection is pretty awesome here in Thailand and one of the better places to shop for costume jewelry. Beaches are home to beaded jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, and much more. The collection and variety available at your disposal are huge, and you would definitely be spoilt for choices. Koh Phagan and Koh Samui are home to plenty of shops where you can customize your jewelry at an affordable price. A lot of Thai variety pieces like pendants or elephant charms are used in the jewelry.

Where to Buy:

• Bangkok’s Silom Road: A hub for high-quality jewelry, including handmade silver pieces and Thai gemstones.
• Chatuchak Market: Known for its selection of affordable silver and semi-precious gemstone jewelry.
• Chiang Mai: The city is a great place to shop for affordable and high-quality silver jewelry.

What to Buy:

• Silver rings, bracelets, and necklaces
• Gemstone jewelry, including Thai sapphires and rubies
• Traditional Thai-style pendants and earrings

Leather Goods

Thailand is known for its high-quality leather products, ranging from stylish bags to wallets, belts, and shoes.

Where to Buy:

• Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Road: You’ll find numerous boutiques selling handmade leather bags, wallets, and shoes.
• Chiang Mai: Many shops in the city specialize in custom-made leather goods.

What to Buy:

• Leather bags, wallets, and belts
• Handcrafted leather shoes and sandals
• Custom leather items

Thai Handicrafts and Wood Carvings

Thailand is famous for its intricate wood carvings, often featuring elephants, Buddha figures, and traditional Thai designs. These hand-carved artworks make for unique home decor or souvenirs.

Where to Buy:

• Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market: You’ll find a wide variety of wooden sculptures and carvings here.
• Chiang Mai: The city’s Wua Lai Road is lined with shops offering beautiful wood carvings, including furniture and wall art.
• Ayutthaya: Known for its traditional crafts, this UNESCO-listed city offers stunning hand-carved wooden pieces.

What to Buy:

• Wooden elephants and Buddha figurines
• Hand-carved furniture and decor
• Wooden masks and traditional Thai art

Thai Spices and Herbs

Thailand’s food is renowned for its bold flavors, and you can take home the essence of Thai cuisine by purchasing its famous spices and herbs. Ingredients like lemongrass, chili paste, kaffir lime leaves, and curry powders are widely available.

Where to Buy:

• Bangkok’s Chinatown: Yaowarat Road is an excellent place to find spices and herbs.
• Chatuchak Market: You can find spice mixes, herbs, and Thai curry pastes here.
• Floating Markets: Vendors often sell fresh spices, herbs, and ready-made curry mixes.

What to Buy:

• Curry pastes (green, red, and yellow)
• Dried herbs and spices like lemongrass and galangal
• Thai chili sauces and fish sauces

Thai Teas and Coffees

Thailand’s tea and coffee are highly regarded, especially its famous Thai iced tea and robust coffee beans from the northern regions.

Where to Buy:

• Bangkok: Visit tea shops in Siam Square or Chinatown for high-quality teas and traditional Thai tea sets.
• Chiang Mai: Northern Thailand is known for its coffee, and the Doi Chang coffee beans are a popular choice among coffee lovers.

What to Buy:

• Thai tea (both the classic Thai iced tea blend and green tea)
• Premium coffee beans from Chiang Mai or Doi Chang
• Traditional tea sets

Thai Art and Paintings

Thailand is home to rich artistic traditions, from ancient murals to contemporary paintings. If you’re looking for art to bring home, you’ll find everything from traditional Thai-style paintings to modern interpretations.

Where to Buy:

• Bangkok’s Art Galleries and Markets: Bangkok offers a variety of art galleries, especially along Sathorn Road, which showcases both local and international artists. For affordable pieces, the Chatuchak Market is a great place to find unique artwork.
• Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar: Here, you can find traditional and contemporary Thai paintings, often featuring serene landscapes or depictions of Thai life.

What to Buy:

• Traditional Thai paintings, often depicting Buddha or scenes from Thai history
• Contemporary Thai art, reflecting modern styles and techniques
• Hand-painted murals, often in bright, traditional colors

Thai Spa and Wellness Products

Thailand is famous for its spa culture, and many tourists love to bring back high-quality spa and wellness products to recreate the luxurious experience at home. These products include herbal oils, lotions, scrubs, and other beauty items made from natural ingredients.

Where to Buy:

• Siam Square, Bangkok: Many shops in this area offer high-quality spa and wellness products.
• Chatuchak Market: You’ll find a selection of organic lotions, body scrubs, and essential oils at affordable prices.
• Chinatown in Bangkok: Chinese herbal medicine shops offer unique wellness products, including teas and balms.

What to Buy:

• Thai herbal balms and essential oils
• Exfoliating body scrubs and lotions made with natural ingredients like coconut, lemongrass, or jasmine
• Thai massage oils and aromatherapy candles

Thai Cosmetic and Beauty Products

Thai cosmetics have become a significant part of the beauty industry, with products that utilize the natural ingredients found throughout the country. Brands like Scentio, Thann, and Karmart offer a range of skincare, body care, and beauty items.

Where to Buy:

• Siam Square and Central World, Bangkok: These popular shopping centers house well-known Thai beauty brands.
• Wat Phra Kaew: Many gift shops around the temples sell traditional beauty products based on natural Thai ingredients.

What to Buy:

• Skincare products made from Thai herbs, like jasmine, coconut, and lemongrass
• Thai body scrubs and soaps made from natural ingredients
• Whitening and anti-aging products from popular Thai brands

Local Artifacts and Cultural Memorabilia

For those looking to immerse themselves in Thailand’s history and culture, local artifacts and cultural memorabilia are a great option. These souvenirs often showcase the deep heritage and artistry of the Thai people.

Where to Buy:

• Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar: A great place to find cultural memorabilia, such as antique-style Thai artifacts and traditional art pieces.
• Bangkok: Small local shops around Rattanakosin Island and the Grand Palace area offer cultural memorabilia.

What to Buy:

• Antique-style Buddha figurines
• Traditional Thai weapons like krabi (swords) and knives
• Royal memorabilia or images of Thai royalty

Specialty Foods and Snacks

Thai cuisine has a wide variety of snacks and food items that you can bring home. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory bites, you can find packaged foods, snacks, and dried goods to take with you.

Where to Buy:

• Chatuchak Market: A great place to find packaged Thai snacks, spices, and sauces.
• Supermarkets: Major Thai supermarket chains like Tesco Lotus and Big C sell local snacks and ready-made meals to take home.

What to Buy:

• Thai chips, dried fruits, and sticky rice snacks
• Instant noodle packs and curry kits
• Thai sweets such as khanom krok (coconut rice pancakes) and khanom buang (crispy Thai pancakes)

1. What are the best places to shop in Thailand?
Thailand offers a wide range of shopping experiences. Some of the best places include:

• Bangkok: Chatuchak Weekend Market, MBK Center, Siam Paragon, and Sukhumvit Road.
• Chiang Mai: Night Bazaar, Sunday Walking Street, and Wua Lai Road.
• Phuket: Patong Beach markets, Jungceylon Mall, and local markets.
• Ayutthaya: Handicraft and antique shops.

2. What is the best time to shop in Thailand?
The best time to shop in Thailand is during the off-peak season (from May to October) when there are fewer tourists and better deals. However, December to February is the peak tourist season, so if you prefer vibrant shopping events and festivals, this is the time to visit.

3. Is bargaining common in Thai markets?
Yes, bargaining is common in most street markets, especially in places like Chatuchak Market or Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar. Start by offering a lower price than the one given and negotiate politely. However, bargaining is not typically done in malls or department stores.

4. Can I use credit cards for shopping in Thailand?
Credit cards are widely accepted in larger shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants. However, in smaller markets, street vendors, or remote areas, it’s better to carry cash. ATMs are available in most shopping districts.

5. Are there any restrictions on bringing items from Thailand?
Generally, you can bring home items like souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts. However, be mindful of cultural heritage items (e.g., antiques, wildlife products) and restricted goods like ivory, certain plants, and animals. Always check customs regulations for your home country before traveling.

6. How do I get around while shopping in Thailand?
Thailand offers convenient modes of transportation like BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, taxis, and tuk-tuks. In major cities like Bangkok, public transport is efficient, but if you are shopping in markets, walking is often the best option. For large shopping malls, taxis or ride-sharing apps like Grab are convenient.

7. Is it safe to shop in Thailand?
Yes, shopping in Thailand is generally safe. However, like any other popular tourist destination, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded markets or public areas. Avoid buying items from unlicensed street vendors.

8. What are the best souvenirs to buy in Thailand?
Popular Thai souvenirs include:

• Thai silk (scarves, clothing, and accessories)
• Handcrafted pottery and wooden carvings
• Thai jewelry, especially silver
• Spices, herbs, and curry pastes
• Elephant-themed items and cultural memorabilia
• Thai handicrafts like handmade paper, lanterns, and textiles

9. Can I get tax refunds on my purchases in Thailand?
Yes, Thailand offers a VAT refund (Value Added Tax) for tourists on eligible purchases. If you spend over 2,000 Baht at a participating store, you can claim a refund at the airport before departing. Keep your receipts, and make sure you follow the refund process at the airport.

10. What should I wear when shopping in Thailand?
Thailand is generally warm year-round, so light, breathable clothing is recommended. However, if you’re visiting temples or traditional markets, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees. Comfortable footwear is also advised, especially when walking through markets.

11. Are there any shopping festivals in Thailand?
Yes! Thailand hosts several shopping festivals throughout the year, including:

• The Great Thai Shopping Festival (usually in June)
• The Bangkok Shopping Festival (held in August)
• End-of-Year Sales (December), where you can find huge discounts across malls and retail shops.

12. Can I find international brands in Thailand?
Yes, Thailand’s shopping malls, such as Siam Paragon and CentralWorld, feature many international brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Zara, and H&M. You can also find international food products in supermarkets like Tesco Lotus or Big C.

13. What is the best way to exchange money for shopping in Thailand?
It’s advisable to exchange currency at the airport or at exchange booths in malls for better rates. ATMs are also convenient but be aware of international withdrawal fees. Avoid exchanging money at hotels, as they usually offer poorer rates.

14. Can I find local art and handicrafts in Thailand?
Yes, Thailand is famous for its local art and handicrafts. Markets like Chatuchak, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, and Ayutthaya’s craft villages offer a wide variety of traditional art, including hand-painted murals, wooden carvings, silk paintings, and ceramics. These make for great souvenirs or home decor items.

15. Are there any shopping tips for first-time visitors to Thailand?

• Research before you go: Know the places you want to visit, such as markets, shopping centers, or designer stores.
• Carry cash: Especially for markets where cards may not be accepted.
• Shop around: Don’t settle for the first price; bargaining is part of the fun in markets!
• Stay hydrated: Thailand can be hot, so drink plenty of water while shopping.
• Don’t rush: Explore, take your time, and enjoy the shopping experience.

From luxurious silk and jewelry to intricate handicrafts and delicious street food ingredients, Thailand offers a treasure trove of items to take home. Whether you’re visiting a bustling market in Bangkok, the night bazaars of Chiang Mai, or the serene villages of Northern Thailand, there’s always something unique to discover. Be sure to take time to explore, bargain, and find the perfect souvenirs to remind you of your unforgettable journey through this beautiful country. Happy shopping!