Spring Travel To Thailand: Good Idea Or Not?

is it good to travel spril to may to thailand

May is a great time to visit Thailand if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of hotel deals. It's the beginning of the rainy season, but the downpours are often short-lived, and the country's natural beauty is in full bloom. The lush landscapes are at their greenest, and the tropical flora and fauna are in their prime. The northern regions enjoy milder weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The reduced tourist crowds also mean you can explore key attractions with greater ease.

However, May is one of the hottest months in Thailand, with temperatures exceeding 40ºC in some parts of the country. So, if you're looking to beat the heat, this may not be the best time to visit.

Characteristics Values
Best time to visit Thailand November to February
Worst time to visit Thailand July and August
Cheapest time to visit Thailand May to October
Peak season November to February
Hottest months in Thailand March, April and May
Rainy season May to October

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Weather in Thailand in spring and early summer

Thailand is known for its warm temperatures all year round, with the temperature never dropping below freezing. The country's weather is characterised by two monsoon seasons, resulting in three seasons: the wet season (May to October), the cool season (November to February) and the hot season (March to May).

Spring and Early Summer in Thailand

The hot season, or 'ruedu ron', sees temperatures peak in April, with averages of 35°C and above. The high humidity, coupled with the hot sun, can make being outdoors uncomfortable. The hot season is most notable in the north of the country, where temperatures are more variable. In Chiang Mai, for example, temperatures can reach around 37°C in April.

The hot season is less pronounced in the south, with temperatures peaking at around 33°C in Phuket. The central and northern parts of Thailand offer a respite from the heat, while the southern regions tend to be more humid.

May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Thailand, particularly in the south. The showers are typically short-lived, with bursts of rain followed by sunny spells. The average temperature in May is around 28°C-34°C, with southern areas being slightly warmer.

The onset of the rainy season brings with it lush, green landscapes, making it a fantastic time for nature enthusiasts to explore the country's vibrant jungles, idyllic islands and pristine beaches. It is also a great time to visit national parks like Khao Sok and Doi Inthanon, which boast stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife and exceptional hiking trails.

The rainy season also offers the opportunity to experience Thai culture, with ancient temples and vibrant festivals such as Visakha Bucha taking place during this time. The culinary scene in Thailand remains exceptional year-round, with May being the season for delectable Thai desserts like sweet sticky rice with mango and coconut-based treats.

The northern regions of Thailand enjoy milder weather in May, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The reduced tourist crowds also mean that key attractions can be explored with greater ease.

The best time to visit Thailand is generally considered to be during the high season, which takes place between November and February, when the weather is at its best throughout the country. The dry season runs from November to May/June, with little to no rain expected.

The beach season in Thailand starts in November when the tropical rains stop. The southern seaside resorts have stable average temperatures of 32°C, with sunny days. This favourable weather continues until the end of April to early May, when the rainy season begins again.

The cool season, or 'ruedu nao', is considered the best time of year to visit much of Thailand. The west coast of Thailand, or the Andaman Sea, is at its calmest, making it perfect for visiting resorts such as Phuket, Krabi and the Ko Phi Phi islands.

If you are planning to visit the east coast of Thailand, such as Ko Samui or Ko Chang, the best time to go is between April and September.

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Pros and cons of visiting Thailand in this period

Pros and cons of visiting Thailand in April and May

Pros

  • April is a good month for beach holidays on islands such as Phuket.
  • April is a good month for volunteering at an elephant sanctuary.
  • April is the hottest month of the year, so the coasts and islands are glorious and very busy.
  • April is a good time for island-hopping.
  • April is a good time to visit the islands of Phuket, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi.
  • April is a good time to visit Bangkok.
  • April is a good time to visit Chiang Mai and the north.
  • April is a good time to visit if you want to experience the Songkran festival.
  • May is a 'shoulder month', so you can often get good flight deals for a beach break.
  • May is a good time to visit if you want to experience the Ngan Bun Bang Fai (Fire Rocket Festival).
  • May is a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.
  • May is a good time to visit if you want to go on a small group tour of Southeast Asia.
  • May is a good time to visit Bangkok.

Cons

  • April is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures hitting 35°C.
  • April is brutally hot and it can be oppressively hot in the cities.
  • April is the start of the rainy season in Thailand.
  • April is very busy, with packed beaches.
  • May is the beginning of the rainy season.
  • May is very hot, especially on the islands.
  • May is the low season, so some businesses and ferry services on the smaller islands shut down.

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Things to do in Thailand in spring and early summer

Although Thailand doesn't have a spring season in the typical sense, the period from January to June is a great time to visit. The country is in full bloom, with lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Here are some things you can do during this period:

  • Explore the islands: Thailand is known for its idyllic tropical islands, and spring is the perfect time to visit them. The seas are calm and warm, and you might even get the chance to dive with whale sharks and manta rays.
  • Snorkelling and scuba diving: March and April are excellent months for snorkelling and scuba diving, especially in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, and the other islands in the Andaman Sea.
  • Beaches: Spring is a great time to enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds and more affordable hotel prices. You can rent a jet ski, work on your tan, or simply relax with a cocktail and a good book.
  • Full Moon Party: Head to Koh Phangan for the infamous Full Moon Party, where thousands of revellers from around the world come together for a hedonistic experience.
  • Songkran Festival: This mid-April festival is one of the most important cultural and religious events in the Thai lunar calendar. It's a time when people gather with family and friends, pay respect to elders, and visit temples for prayer and offerings. The most exciting part is the nationwide water fight, where people of all ages take to the streets with water pistols, balloons, and buckets!
  • Temple visits: While spring may not be the best time for extensive temple visits due to the heat, you can still explore some of the most famous temples, such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho in Bangkok, and temples in Chiang Mai.
  • Nature and wildlife tours: Take advantage of the vibrant wildlife and lush landscapes by going on nature and wildlife tours. Visit national parks like Khao Sok and Doi Inthanon, which offer stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and exceptional hiking trails.
  • Island-hopping: Embark on island-hopping adventures in the Andaman Sea, exploring the pristine beaches and idyllic islands.
  • Cruises: Enjoy a night cruise on the Chao Phraya River, taking in the city lights and landmarks like the Emerald Buddha Temple while enjoying great food and music.
  • Food and markets: Indulge in the world-renowned Thai cuisine, including street food and local delicacies. Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market, a bustling market with a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of local goods.
  • Cultural tours: Thailand has a rich cultural tapestry, and spring is a great time to explore it. Visit ancient temples, attend local festivals like Visakha Bucha, and immerse yourself in the local traditions.

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What to pack for Thailand

Clothing

  • Light and breathable clothing is a must in Thailand's tropical climate.
  • Pack t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and lightweight jackets or cardigans to cover up when visiting temples and royal buildings.
  • A simple, versatile dress that can be dressed up or down is a good option.
  • A hat for sun protection is essential.
  • Shorts are great for the warm weather, but remember to pack modest lengths.
  • Pants or jeans – you can get away with one pair of jeans if your trip is less than a week.
  • A sarong or big scarf can be used as a beach cover-up and a modesty wrap.
  • Underwear and sleepwear – lightweight and breathable pyjamas are best.
  • Walking shoes – trainers or canvas shoes are comfortable and versatile.
  • Sandals or flip-flops – many places require you to remove your shoes, so a good pair of flip-flops is essential.
  • A few jewellery items – nothing too expensive or flashy.
  • A rain jacket – opt for something thin and rollable.
  • Swimwear – bikinis are fine, but cover up when leaving the beach/pool.
  • A wide-brimmed sun hat that can be folded.
  • A swimming cap to protect your hair.
  • Snorkelling or diving gear if you plan on partaking in such activities.
  • Beach towels are optional – they take up space, and you can easily buy them in Thailand.

Toiletries

  • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash – travel-sized options are best.
  • Female hygiene products.
  • Sunscreen – anything with Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octinoxate, 4MBC, and Butylparabe is banned in Thailand.
  • Facial moisturiser and cleanser.
  • Deodorant – the deodorant sold in Thailand is considered weaker by some travellers, so you may want to bring your preferred brand.
  • Lip balm.
  • Travel toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Nail clippers and tweezers.
  • Medical kit – include items such as pain relievers, motion sickness pills, and prescription medications. Insect repellent and sunscreen can be more expensive in Thailand, so consider bringing these along.
  • Makeup – foundation, eyeliner, eyeshadow, powder, and setting spray.
  • Perfume or body mist.

Electronics

  • Headphones.
  • Chargers, cords, and power banks.
  • Laptop and laptop charger.
  • HDMI cable.
  • Tablet.
  • Portable battery pack.
  • Cell phone and charger – remember to unlock your phone before you leave so you can pick up a local SIM card when you arrive.
  • Camera and camera cables.
  • GoPro and accessories.
  • International travel converter – Thailand uses a 220V electrical system, so a universal power adapter is recommended.
  • Portable fan – to beat the heat.

Other Essentials

  • A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
  • Visa, if required.
  • Booking documents and travel itinerary, if required.
  • Money – bring both cash and cards. Cash is king in Thailand, and it's easy to exchange at currency exchange booths. Credit cards are convenient but may incur foreign transaction fees.
  • Physical and digital copies of all your important documents.
  • A good travel backpack – a 50L backpack is more than enough for trips under three months.
  • Quality flip-flops – easy to remove and perfect for the hot weather.
  • A small and durable bag for day-to-day use that can also work as a carry-on.
  • A reusable water bottle – you can fill it up for next to nothing in Thailand.
  • A mini LED flashlight – handy for fumbling around in the dark.
  • A waterproof phone pack to keep your valuables safe and dry.
  • Electrolyte packs – Thailand is hot, and you will need to stay hydrated.
  • Travel insurance – don't skimp on this! Ensure you are covered for all your intended activities.
  • House keys – don't get locked out when you return home!
  • Printouts of ID, passport, and itinerary – useful for renting motorbikes/scooters and as backups.
  • Vaccination records.
  • Luggage tags – to easily identify your backpack.

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Average costs of a trip to Thailand in May

May is the beginning of the rainy season in Thailand, but it's still a great time to visit, with plenty of sunshine and fewer crowds. Here's a breakdown of the average costs you can expect for a trip to Thailand in May:

Accommodation

Thailand offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. The average cost of a hotel room is around $50 per night, but you can find cheaper options, especially during the low season. In May, you can expect to pay slightly lower prices than peak season rates.

Transportation

Local transportation in Thailand is relatively inexpensive. The average daily cost for transportation is around $15, including buses, trains, and taxis. If you're travelling longer distances, consider booking domestic flights, which can be affordable if you're flexible with your travel dates.

Food

Thai food is delicious and affordable. You can easily find meals for $5 or less at street stalls, night markets, and local restaurants. The average daily cost for food is around $20, but this can vary depending on your dining choices.

Activities

There are plenty of affordable activities and attractions in Thailand. Entrance fees for temples, museums, and national parks are usually reasonable. You can also enjoy free activities like visiting beaches, exploring local markets, or walking through historic neighbourhoods.

Flights

Flight prices to Thailand vary depending on your departure location and travel dates. On average, a round-trip economy flight costs around $900. However, you may find better deals during the shoulder season, which includes May.

Overall, Thailand is known for being a budget-friendly destination. By visiting in May, you can take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds while still enjoying plenty of sunshine and exploring all that the country has to offer.

For a two-week trip to Thailand, you can expect to spend around $1,359 per person, including accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing. This estimate can vary depending on your travel style and preferences, so it's always a good idea to plan and research accordingly.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, the rainy season in Thailand is from April to June, with April and May being the hottest months. The rainy season sees the start of lower tourist crowds, and the lush greenery is at its most vibrant, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts.

The weather during these months is hot and humid, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in places. There are also intermittent showers, with short bursts of rain leaving behind refreshed surroundings.

The beaches in Thailand are accessible all year round. The east coast beaches provide a respite from the heat with clear water conditions, while the west coast beaches experience some rain. The warm waters of Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Samui are perfect for diving and snorkelling.

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