Sun, beaches, food, amazing people – Thailand has it all. And it’s affordable! If you want, you can live here for under 30 dollars a day. But there’s one thing that’s definitely not cheap: flights to Thailand.
We’ve been living in Thailand since 2019. We often fly to Europe to visit family and then back again. Over time, we’ve learned that choosing the cheapest time to fly can save you a lot of money.
In this article, you’ll find out when it’s the cheapest time to fly to Thailand, plus all the tips and hacks for booking flights.
Thailand’s Seasons: When is the Best Time to Travel to Thailand?
Let’s start with Thailand’s seasons. Thailand is part of Mainland Southeast Asia (Indochina) and has three main seasons: the rainy season, the cool season, and the hot season. These seasons can vary a bit between the west and east coasts.
West Coast: Phuket, Krabi, and More
Best Time to Visit: November to March
This is the dry season when the West Coast beaches are at their best. The weather is warm but not too hot, with temperatures between 75°F and 89°F (24°C to 32°C). Think clear blue skies, soft sea breezes, and hardly any rain—only about 1-2 inches (25-50 mm) per month.
November signals the end of the rainy season, so everything feels fresh and green. By December, more travelers start arriving, and between January and March, the weather is at its peak—perfect for beach days.
Downside: It’s high season, so you’ll find more tourists and higher accommodation prices.
East Coast: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao
Best Time to Visit: Mid-December to April
If you’re looking for a slightly quieter beach escape, Thailand’s East Coast delivers. The weather here is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 93°F (25°C to 34°C). During this time, rainfall is rare—only about 1-3 inches (25-75 mm) per month—so you’re almost guaranteed long days of sunshine.
Unlike the busy West Coast, the East Coast feels a little more relaxed and peaceful, even during peak season. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are great spots for families, with gentle waves, shallow waters, and kid-friendly activities.
By April, it starts getting hotter, but the beaches remain gorgeous, and it’s still a fantastic time to visit before the rainy season begins.
Best Time of the Year to Find Cheap Flights to Thailand
Now that we’ve talked about Thailand’s seasons, the big question is: When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Thailand? Let’s break it down.
Low Season (May – October, except August): Rainy but Budget-Friendly
Thailand’s low season runs from May to October and overlaps with the rainy season (though, as mentioned earlier, the rain starts later in some regions). Don’t worry—it’s not constant rain. Showers are usually short and intense, often cooling things down in the late afternoon or evening, while the mornings are often sunny.
Why it’s great for budget travelers:
- Cheaper prices: Flights, hotels, and tours are 30–50% less than in peak season.
- Fewer crowds: Beaches, temples, and popular spots are quieter and more relaxed.
- Lush landscapes: The rain brings everything to life, making it green and vibrant.
If you’re okay with a bit of rain, this is not only a perfect time for budget-friendly family travel but also the cheapest time to fly to Thailand for major savings. You’ll also get to enjoy Thailand’s beauty without the high-season rush.
Shoulder Season (Late April & November): The Perfect Balance
The shoulder season is a hidden gem. Late April marks the end of the hot season, while November brings the end of the rainy season. The weather is getting better, prices are still low, and the crowds haven’t fully returned yet.
Why it’s ideal:
- Better weather: Skies clear up in November, and April cools down after the peak heat.
- Lower prices: Flights and hotels are still much cheaper compared to the high season.
- Peaceful travel: Attractions and beaches are less crowded, giving you a quieter, more relaxing experience.
In my opinion, the shoulder season is the sweet spot if you want a mix of affordable prices and good weather.
High Season (December – March, August): Perfect Weather, Higher Prices
Thailand’s high season is when the country truly shines, but it’s not the cheapest time to fly to Thailand. From December to March, the weather is at its best: sunny, dry, and not too humid. This is the most popular time for tourists, especially families escaping winter.
August also falls into the high season. I call it the mini high season. Prices go up even though the weather isn’t amazing. My guess? It’s because August is school holiday season worldwide, so people just travel more during this time.
What to expect:
- Amazing weather: Clear skies, gentle breezes, and calm waters—perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.
- Bigger crowds: Popular spots like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai can get very busy.
- Higher costs: Flights and hotels hit their peak prices, so you’ll need to budget more.
If you’re planning to visit during the high season, book early. Flights and accommodations sell out quickly!
Which Season is Right for You?
- Low Season: Perfect for budget travelers who want to save money and avoid crowds.
- Shoulder Season: A great balance of good weather, affordable prices, and fewer tourists. My personal top recommendation!
- High Season: Ideal for those who want perfect weather and don’t mind paying a bit more for the experience.
| Season | Months | Weather | Pros | Cons | Flight Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season | May–October (except August) | Rainy season; short showers, sunny mornings | 30–50% cheaper flights, fewer crowds, lush landscapes | Occasional heavy rain | $600–$800 (U.S. round-trip) |
| Shoulder Season | Late April & November | End of hot/rainy season; improving weather | Great balance: lower prices, fewer tourists, better weather | Slightly warmer in April | $700–$900 |
| High Season | December–March, August | Dry season; perfect sunny weather | Amazing weather, peak for outdoor travel | Higher prices, bigger crowds | $1,200–$1,500+ |
Cheapest Months to Fly to Thailand
The cheapest time to fly to Thailand includes May, June, September, and October, according to Skyscanner and Kayak data. During May and June, Thailand enters its rainy season, and with fewer tourists visiting, airlines drop prices to attract passengers. You can often find round-trip flights from the U.S. to Thailand for as low as $600–$700 during this period, especially if you’re departing from major hubs in the United States, like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or New York (JFK). Budget airlines or those with layovers in cities like Seoul, Tokyo, or Doha tend to offer the best flight deals.
By September and October, the monsoon season begins to taper off, and prices remain low, typically ranging from $650 to $800 for round-trip tickets. Cities like Chicago and Seattle sometimes see even lower fares, while flights from smaller airports may cost a bit more. These months also come with the added benefit of fewer tourists, meaning quieter attractions and better deals on accommodations.
For comparison, flying to Thailand during the high season (December to March) can easily cost $1,200 to $1,500 or more, depending on demand and holiday travel. If you’re flexible with your dates and don’t mind occasional afternoon showers, May, June, September, and October offer significant savings—often up to 50% off peak season prices.
👇 Check out the best Hotels in Bangkok here:
When to Book Your Flight for the Best Deals
Now that you know the cheapest months to fly to Thailand, the next step is figuring out when to book to snag the best prices. According to Skyscanner, the ideal booking window is 2 to 5 months in advance. This gives you the best chance of finding affordable flights before prices start to climb. Last-minute bookings might sound spontaneous and fun, but they often come with a hefty price tag—flights tend to spike the closer you get to your departure date.
To make life easier, you can set up price alerts to get notifications when flight prices drop. Another tip? Look for flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, as midweek departures are usually much cheaper than flying on weekends.
How Flight Routes and Airports Affect Prices
The airport you fly into and the route you take can make a big difference in how much you pay for flights to Thailand. Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is Thailand’s main hub and often has the cheapest flight options. Since it’s a major international airport, more airlines fly there, which helps keep prices competitive. If you’re planning to visit northern Thailand or the islands, flights to Chiang Mai (CNX) or Phuket (HKT) can sometimes be pricier. Still, it’s worth checking, especially if you’re booking domestic connections separately.
Another big tip for saving money? Avoid direct flights from the U.S.—they’re usually the most expensive. Instead, look for stopover flights with layovers in cities like Seoul, Tokyo, or Middle Eastern hubs like Doha and Dubai. These routes can easily save you hundreds of dollars. Plus, a longer layover might give you the chance to explore a bonus destination along the way!
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Flights to Thailand
- Use Flight Comparison Sites: Check platforms like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Trip.com to compare prices across airlines.
- Be Flexible with Dates: Use fare calendars to find the lowest-priced days to fly. Midweek flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are often cheaper.
- Consider Alternate Airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) is usually the most affordable, but check flights to Chiang Mai (CNX) or Phuket (HKT) for deals.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Set up price notifications to track fares and book when prices drop.
- Book with Budget Airlines: Once in Asia, use low-cost carriers like AirAsia or Scoot for regional flights to Thailand.
👉 You might also find these Thailand articles interesting:
– 35 Interesting Facts About Thailand, I Bet You Didn’t Know
– The 8 Best Airlines to Fly to Thailand 2024 & 2025
– What to Wear in Thailand? 20 Do’s and Don’ts
– Thailand in Winter: What to Expect and Where to Go
Final Thoughts on the Cheapest Time to Fly to Thailand
In the end, the shoulder season—the transition between high and low seasons—is the sweet spot for visiting Thailand. The cheapest time to fly to Thailand are May to November. To save even more, book 2–5 months in advance, stay flexible with your travel dates and use tools like Skyscanner or Kayak to find the best deals.
I hope this article helps you plan your next trip to Thailand without breaking the bank. When are you heading to the Land of Smiles? Do you have any flight-saving tips of your own? Let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
FAQ About The Cheapest Time to Fly to Thailand
Which airlines offer the best deals during the cheapest time to fly to Thailand?
Airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, and China Airlines frequently offer competitive prices. Budget-conscious travelers should also check for indirect flights with layovers in cities like Hong Kong, Seoul, or Doha to get the best price on tickets.
What factors affect ticket prices to Thailand?
Several factors can influence ticket prices:
- Season: Low season (May–October) offers the best deals.
- Departure dates: High demand during holidays (e.g., Thai New Year) increases prices.
- Airlines: Different airlines vary in pricing based on amenities, routes, and competition.
- Route: Indirect flights are cheaper than nonstop flights.
Are there age limits for unaccompanied minors flying to Thailand?
Most airlines have a minimum age for unaccompanied minors traveling internationally. Check the airline’s policy and requirements for health documents, national ID cards, or visas for minors.
Can personal data affect flight bookings on websites?
Websites often use third-party cookies, similar technologies, and device identifiers to track user behavior and adjust prices dynamically. Managing your privacy preferences’ link or browsing incognito can help prevent price hikes.
Are nonstop flights to Thailand worth the cost?
Nonstop flights can be a biggest expense, as they are typically more expensive. To save money, consider connecting flights with layovers in Hong Kong, Seoul, or the Middle East. These routes are cheaper and offer opportunities to explore a great place during longer layovers.
What tools can I use to find cheap Thailand flights?
Platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Momondo, and CheapFlights are great for finding low-cost flight tickets. Use tools like fare alerts and price trackers to monitor plane ticket prices.
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