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TripFactory explains about the best and famous things to buy in Thailand.
If you’re in Thailand and it’s time to head home but you’re confused about what to buy as souvenirs, you’re not alone. At TripFactory, almost every traveller who books a Thailand tour package asks our guides what they should buy to take back home.
Here, you’ll learn about some unique and popular things to buy in Thailand, curated by our Thailand travel expert. From clothes and pottery to snacks and local foods, everything covered. So get ready to discover what to shop for in Thailand and where to find it.
Things to buy in Thailand
Snacks are the easiest and safest thing to buy in Thailand. You’ll see them everywhere – in 7-Eleven, Big C, Tesco Lotus, local markets, night markets, and even at airports.
Thailand has a huge range of delicious snacks. Dried fruits are very popular, especially dried mango, jackfruit, tamarind candy, and crispy durian chips. Seaweed snacks from the brand Tao Kae Noi are a favourite among tourists. You can also try Thai-style chips and crackers like Lay’s with Tom Yum, seaweed, or spicy seafood flavours. Rolled wafers (Thong Muan), coconut candies, and neatly packed traditional sweets are great options too. Many travellers also buy instant Thai milk tea sachets and local coffee mixes from brands like Doi Chang.
Why They’re Good?
Thai snacks are cheap, tasty, and very light to carry. They make great gifts for family, friends, office colleagues, or children. Because there are so many flavours and varieties, you can buy something different for everyone without spending much.
Where to Buy?
If you want the best prices, visit supermarkets like Big C, Tesco, Makro, or local community markets. For more variety and cute packaging, 7-Eleven stores and airport shops are perfect, though they may be slightly more expensive.
Tips
Always check expiry dates before buying a lot of snacks. Choose items that are fully sealed so they don’t spill during travel. If you are carrying large quantities, it’s better to keep them in your checked-in baggage to avoid issues at security checks.
Thai silk is one of the most famous things to buy in Thailand. It has a rich, elegant look, but the good thing is that it comes in many price ranges. Whether you want something luxurious or something budget-friendly, you will easily find a piece that fits your style and pocket.
Silk scarves and shawls are very popular because they are light, easy to gift, and easy to pack. Silk ties make nice formal gifts. If you like stitching, you can buy silk fabric by the metre to make dresses, saree borders, blouses, or home décor items. Many travellers also pick silk cushion covers and table runners because they look beautiful in living rooms and bedrooms.
Where to buy?
Jim Thompson stores offer premium-quality silk, although the prices are higher. For more affordable options, the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok has many stalls selling scarves, fabrics, and mixed material items. Chiang Mai markets like Warorot Market and the Night Bazaar are also great spots to find silk and cotton blend products at reasonable prices.
Why it’s worth buying?
Thai silk is worth buying because the quality is very good and the prices are better than in many other countries. Silk items also last a long time and always feel special, which makes them excellent souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.
Tips:
Always check if the silk is real or polyester, as real silk usually costs more. Also ask the seller about washing instructions, because some silk products need dry cleaning to maintain their shine and softness.
There are many types of clothing you can choose from. Elephant pants come in bright colours with cute elephant or mandala patterns. Bohemian dresses are flowy and perfect for beaches or casual days out. You’ll also find loose cotton shirts and tops that keep you cool, along with Thai fisherman pants that wrap around your waist and feel very soft and free to move in.
Khao San Road in Bangkok has countless stalls selling all types of Thai clothing. Chatuchak Market is another great place with a huge variety in one location. If you’re in Chiang Mai, the Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street are perfect spots to shop for clothes at good prices.
Why people love them?
People love these clothes because they are extremely comfortable, especially in Thailand’s heat and humidity. They are also very cheap, so buying two or three pairs doesn’t hurt your budget. Many travellers wear them not only during their trip but also at home, to the beach, or even as nightwear because they feel so soft and breathable.
Tips:
When buying these clothes, it’s a good idea to bargain a little, especially if you’re picking up more than one piece. Sellers usually give better prices when you buy in sets. Also, check the elastic and stitching before paying to make sure the item will last longer and stay comfortable after washing.
Handmade ceramics in Thailand are a wonderful choice if you enjoy collecting home décor pieces or tea sets. They carry a calm, artistic feel and are available in many beautiful designs. These items instantly add a touch of Thai craftsmanship to your home and make thoughtful gifts for others too.
Benjarong porcelain is one of the most famous types you’ll see. It is colourful, detailed, and often used to make tea sets, bowls, jars, and decorative pieces. The designs are hand-painted, which gives each item a special and premium look. Celadon pottery is another popular option. It usually comes in a soft green shade with a crackled glaze, creating a soothing and elegant finish that looks great in any room.
Travellers can choose from many different ceramic items depending on space and budget. Smaller items include cups, bowls, soup spoons, incense holders, and coasters. These are easy to pack and make nice little gifts. Medium-sized options like teapots, mugs, and serving bowls are perfect for someone who loves hosting guests or decorating their kitchen with unique pieces.
Where to buy?
In Bangkok, you can look for them in specialty ceramic shops or certain malls that carry home décor items. Chiang Mai is especially known for its pottery villages and handicraft stores, where you can even see artisans at work. Most tourist markets also have small ceramic stalls, so you can easily pick up a piece while shopping for other souvenirs.
Why they’re special?
These ceramics stand out because they are hand-decorated and feel premium without always being too expensive. Their craftsmanship makes them suitable for weddings, family gifts, or for anyone who loves beautiful home items. They’re meaningful souvenirs that hold cultural value and look wonderful on display.
Tips:
Since ceramics are fragile, it’s important to pack them carefully. Always ask the seller for bubble wrap or foam padding, and place your ceramic items in the middle of your suitcase surrounded by soft clothes. This keeps them safe during travel. If you’re concerned about luggage weight or breakage, stick to smaller pieces instead of large or heavy ones.
Thailand is well-known for its wooden handicrafts. Many skilled artisans, especially in Chiang Mai, create beautiful items from teak, mango wood, and other local woods. These pieces are made with care and show the traditional art style of Thailand.
You can buy small wooden elephants, which are one of the most popular souvenirs. There are also wall carvings with floral designs or Buddha artwork, but buy Buddha items only if it matches your beliefs and rules at home. You can also get wooden jewellery boxes, small chests, and serving spoons or utensils made from teak or mango wood. These items look simple but elegant.
Where to Buy?
The best place for wooden handicrafts is the handicraft villages in Chiang Mai, where you can even see some artists working. In Bangkok, Chatuchak Market has many stalls selling wooden items. You will also find good shops near temples and tourist spots across Thailand.
Why It’s Worth Buying?
Wooden handicrafts from Thailand feel special because they are mostly handmade. Each piece has its own look and charm. Wooden items also add a warm and natural feel to your home, making them nice for decoration or gifting.
Tips
Before buying, check if the wood is smooth and free from cracks. Make sure the polish and carving look neat. If you choose bigger pieces, remember that they can be heavy, so think about your baggage weight while packing for your return trip.
Rattan and bamboo items are a good choice if you like things that look natural and simple. These products have a clean look and fit well in any home. They are also strong and long-lasting, so you can use them for many years.
There are many things you can buy made of rattan and bamboo. The most popular are handbags and sling bags, which look stylish and are great for daily use. You can also buy storage baskets for clothes, toys, or other small items at home. If you like decorating your house, you will find wall hangings, lampshades, and plant holders that look very beautiful and give a warm feel to your space.
Where to buy?
You can buy these products in many places in Thailand. Chatuchak Market in Bangkok has a big variety of rattan and bamboo stalls. Chiang Mai markets also have very good handmade items. Some home décor stores and local craft shops around the country sell them too. It is easy to find good designs in almost every city.
Why they’re good?
You’ll like rattan and bamboo items because they are very light and easy to carry in your luggage. They do not take too much space and are not heavy. These products are also eco-friendly, which means they are good for the environment. They look simple but very nice in modern Indian homes.
Tips:
When you buy these items, check the weaving properly. The weave should be tight and strong, not loose or shaky. If you are buying baskets, you can save space by keeping smaller items inside them while packing your suitcase. This makes it easier to carry everything back home.
Thai skincare products are very popular because they use natural ingredients. You can buy virgin coconut oil, which is good for hair, skin, and sometimes even cooking. Snail creams are also common and people use them for soft skin and anti-ageing. For small pains or cold, herbal balms like Tiger Balm work very well. Many travellers also like essential oils such as lemongrass, jasmine, lavender, and eucalyptus. If you want something simple, you can pick up handmade soaps and scrubs made with turmeric, tamarind, jasmine, or coconut.
Where to Buy?
The best places to buy these products are Boots and Watsons, which are big pharmacy chains in Thailand. They have good quality and real products. If you want handmade or natural items, you will find many options in tourist shops, street markets, and night markets. These places offer more variety and often cheaper prices.
Why to Buy?
Thai skincare is worth buying because the prices are very affordable compared to many other countries. You also get a huge variety of products, from very cheap items to high-quality premium brands. This makes it easy for anyone to find something that fits their budget and needs.
Tips
If you have sensitive skin, always test a small amount first to make sure it suits you. Also, check that bottles and jars are sealed properly, so they don’t leak inside your bag while travelling. This small step will save you from a lot of mess later.
Thai spices, curry pastes, and teas are great to buy in Thailand, especially if you enjoy cooking or want to take the real taste of Thailand back home. These items help you make Thai food easily in your own kitchen, and they do not take much space in your luggage.
There are many things you can buy in this category. Green curry paste is a good option if you want something mild to medium spicy. Red curry paste is usually a little spicier. Massaman and Panang curry pastes have a thick and rich flavour. You can also buy Tom Yum soup paste or cubes if you enjoy the famous Thai soup. Along with these, Thai teas like butterfly pea tea, lemongrass tea, pandan tea, and Thai milk tea mix are very popular and make nice gifts too.
Where to buy?
Big supermarkets like Big C, Tesco, and Makro have a large variety. You can also visit small local spice shops in markets. If you want to buy at the last moment, airports and duty-free shops also sell them, but the prices there are usually higher.
Why they’re good?
You’ll like buying these items because they are simple to use. Most curry pastes only need some coconut milk and vegetables or meat to make a tasty dish. This makes it easy to cook Thai food at home without much effort. These products also stay fresh for a long time, so you can use them whenever you want.
Tips:
A few small tips can help. Try to buy curry pastes in packets instead of glass bottles, because glass can break while travelling. Also, the smell of curry paste can be strong, so it is better to put the packets inside a plastic bag before keeping them in your suitcase.
Thailand is a very good place to buy silver and gemstone jewellery. Cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai are especially famous for this. You will find many shops selling beautiful and unique designs.
You can buy silver bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings in many different styles. There is also hill-tribe jewellery, which has a handmade, rustic look. If you like gemstones, you will find sapphires, rubies, and other stones, but only buy these from trusted and well-known shops. You can also buy simple daily-wear jewellery that matches many outfits.
Where to Buy?
The best place for silver in Chiang Mai is Wualai Road, also known as Silver Street. In Bangkok, Chinatown (Yaowarat) has many jewelry shops where you can explore different designs. If you want to buy gemstones or expensive pieces, go only to reputed stores that provide proper certificates.
Why People Like It?
You’ll enjoy buying jewellery in Thailand because the designs are different and many pieces are handcrafted. Silver jewellery here is also more affordable compared to many other countries, so you can get good value for your money.
Tips While Buying
Avoid buying gemstones from random street sellers, because they may not be genuine. If you are buying costly jewellery or gemstones, always ask for a bill, proper receipt, and certificate. This gives you safety and proof that your purchase is real.
In Thailand, people use many natural items for healing, relaxation, and massage. You will find herbal products everywhere, and they are very popular with tourists because they are useful and easy to carry.
One common item is the Ya Dom inhaler. It is a small tube filled with herbal oils. You sniff it when you feel sleepy, have a blocked nose, or want quick freshness. These are very cheap and handy, so many people buy them in bulk.
Another good product is the herbal compress ball. This is a small cloth ball filled with herbs like lemongrass, turmeric, and camphor. People warm it up and use it during massages. It helps relax your muscles and gives a nice smell.
You can also buy different types of massage oils. Thailand is famous for lemongrass, coconut, and jasmine oils. These oils are used in Thai spas and are very calming. They are good for home use too.
Herbal teas are worth buying. There are teas for relaxation, better sleep, and digestion. Popular ones include lemongrass tea and jasmine tea. They are light to carry and make a healthy drink at home.
Where to buy?
You can buy these products easily in many places.
Spa shops, massage centres, and wellness stores have a wide variety. Pharmacies and supermarkets also sell inhalers and basic herbal items.
Why they’re good?
You can carry them in your bag without any trouble. They also make nice gifts for older relatives or friends who get tired or stressed often.
A simple tip is to try the product before buying.
If you enjoy something used during your spa session, ask the staff if they sell it. Also, some oils may not suit everyone’s skin, so test a small amount first before using a lot.
Home décor and souvenirs from Thailand are great if you want to bring back something that reminds you of your trip. These items add a little Thai touch to your home and make your space feel warm and colourful. You will find many lovely pieces that look good and are easy to carry.
You can buy many simple and nice things like lanterns and paper lamps that give soft, colourful light. Chiang Mai is famous for its hand-painted umbrellas, which look very pretty as decoration. Paintings and prints showing Thai temples, elephants, floating markets, and village life are also very popular. Many people also buy Thai cushions or triangle floor pillows for their living rooms. And of course, small items like elephant statues, magnets, keychains, and coasters are great for gifting.
Where to buy?
Good places to buy these items are Thailand’s floating markets, where you will find a lot of artwork and paintings. Chiang Mai Walking Street is also full of handmade décor items made by local artists. Chatuchak Market in Bangkok and many night markets around the country also have a huge variety of home décor and cute souvenirs.
Why they’re nice?
These souvenirs are nice because they bring a warm and travel-friendly feeling to your home. They add colour, culture, and a bit of Thailand’s charm. Many items are quite affordable, so you can easily buy more than one without spending too much money.
A simple tip is to think about your home’s colour theme before buying anything, so the items match your space nicely. If you buy something fragile, like a lamp or a painting, wrap it well in your clothes and keep it on top of your luggage to keep it safe.
Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand, and many travellers love picking up its shorts or T-shirts as a fun memory. These items look stylish, colourful, and instantly remind you of Thailand.
The most popular is the Muay Thai shorts, which come in bright colours with Thai writing on them. You can also buy T-shirts or jerseys from famous Muay Thai gyms or stadiums. If you are into fitness, you can also buy hand wraps or small training gloves.
Where to buy?
Shops near Muay Thai stadiums in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai usually have the best variety. You can also check sports shops in malls, where the quality is more reliable.
Many people find Muay Thai gear cool because it is different from normal souvenirs. Instead of buying magnets or keychains, you get something sporty and unique. These items also make a great gift for someone who likes boxing, gym workouts, or fitness in general.
Tips:
If you actually plan to train in Muay Thai, choose better quality items from proper sports brands. Also, try the shorts before buying, because the waist size can be tight or loose depending on the shop.
Bangkok is full of fun and quirky things that instantly make you smile. When you walk through the markets, you will see many cute and funny items that you don’t find in other countries. These are great for gifting or just to remember your trip.
You can buy tuk-tuk sign boards, small tuk-tuk models, and street-style signs like “Taxi Meter” or “Tuk Tuk”. These look cool in rooms or on desks. You will also find funny T-shirts with Thai-English jokes and colourful prints. Fridge magnets, keychains with elephants, temples, or Thai food pictures are also very popular. Some shops even sell small neon or LED signs with fun words.
The best places to buy these things are Khao San Road, which becomes very lively at night and has many T-shirt and sign shops. Chatuchak Market is huge and has almost every type of souvenir you can imagine. MBK Center is good if you prefer a shopping mall with fixed prices and a big choice of magnets, T-shirts, and small gifts.
These souvenirs are fun because they are cheap, colourful, and make perfect small gifts for friends, cousins, or office people. They also remind you of the cheerful and playful side of Thailand, which makes the memories feel fresh even after you return home.
Since many of these items are mass-produced, it’s better to check the piece properly before buying. Sometimes colours or prints may not be perfect. If you are buying many items from one shop, try asking for a small discount. Most sellers are friendly and will give you a better price if you take multiple pieces together.
During your holiday in Thailand, you can buy Thai silk, handmade crafts, herbal spa items, and elephant pants, alongside delectable Thai tea and dried fruit snacks.
Yes, bargaining with sellers is a common practice that takes place in most local markets. A polite technique combined with a friendly smile will make your bargaining attempts successful at local markets. Sellers demonstrate friendliness toward individuals who show them kindness in their interactions.
Thai Baht cash serves as the only accepted payment at both small shops and street markets throughout Thailand. Stores both large and small will usually accept credit cards, yet keeping cash available offers the most convenient shopping option.
You can go to Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai, or the beach markets in Phuket for cheap, trendy clothes.
Night markets open in the evening and feature a variety of food stalls, clothing, souvenirs, and some fun things to see. You should visit a night market for the environment alone, and cheap shopping is always a bonus.
Yes! Things in Thailand are usually pretty cheap, particularly in street markets. You can get clothes, soaps, and souvenirs for cheap prices. Just make sure you compare prices and bargain respectfully!
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