What to Buy in Thailand: Top 20 Amazing Gifts & Souvenirs

Planning a trip to Thailand and overwhelmed by the sheer amount of amazing things to buy? Don't know where to start your souvenir hunt? It's easy to get lost in the maze of markets and shops, wasting precious time and potentially missing out on the most unique and authentic finds. You don't want to end up with generic souvenirs that you could find anywhere!

This guide from TravelThru is your ultimate guide on what to buy in Thailand. We've curated the must-have souvenirs, the hidden shopping gems, and the insider tips to make your shopping experience unforgettable. Get ready to discover the best of Thai craftsmanship, culture, and style!

Best Things to Buy in Thailand to Bring Home

1. Tuk-Tuk Miniatures

Miniature tuk-tuks are among the best Thailand souvenirs to buy in Bangkok. These vibrant three-wheeled vehicles, a common sight on Thai streets, perfectly capture the country's energy and charm. The miniature replicas come in various styles, from simple wooden carvings to intricately detailed metal models with bright colors, traditional patterns, and even flashing lights.

• Cost: Typically priced between 100 THB to 500 THB ($3 to $15).
• Best places to buy: These are available at various markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market and souvenir shops around tourist areas.

2. Thailand Balms and Inhalers

Thailand is famous for its traditional medicine and wellness practices. If you're looking for natural remedies, Thai herbal inhalers and balms are great gifts. Inhalers use herbs like menthol and eucalyptus to help with breathing problems while balms soothe aches and pains. You can find these throughout Thailand in markets and pharmacies. They're perfect souvenirs for friends and family seeking natural wellness solutions.

• Cost: Inhalers often cost less than $1 USD, and balms can range from $1-$5 USD depending on size and brand.
• Best places to buy: You'll find a huge variety and the best prices in bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok or Warorot Market in Chiang Mai. Try pharmacies, especially in tourist areas, for a wider selection of brands and potentially higher quality.

3. Traditional Thai Parasol

A traditional Thai parasol makes a beautiful and practical souvenir. Often handcrafted from bamboo and mulberry paper, these vibrant umbrellas are adorned with intricate hand-painted designs depicting scenes from Thai mythology, nature, or everyday life.

While you can find mass-produced parasols, consider seeking out authentic handcrafted ones from local artisans. This supports local communities and ensures you're getting a genuine piece of Thai art.

• Cost: Prices range from 300 THB to 1,500 THB ($9 to $45).
• Best places to buy: Found in Chiang Mai markets and at the Chatuchak Weekend Market.

4. Handmade Jewelry

One of the most captivating aspects of Thai handcrafted jewelry is the attention to detail. Many pieces feature traditional motifs inspired by nature, mythology, and Buddhist symbolism. You might find delicate lotus flower earrings, intricately carved silver bracelets with Naga serpent designs, or vibrant gemstone pendants reflecting the colors of Thai temples.

• Cost: Prices vary widely, typically from 200 THB to 3,000 THB ($6 to $85).
• Best places to buy: Night markets in Chiang Mai and Bangkok's MBK Center.

5. Thai Silk

Thai silk is a must-buy in Bangkok! It's strong, gorgeous, and affordable. The colors are amazing, and it looks so elegant, especially for home decor like table runners. You can even make things like skirts and pillowcases with it. It's lightweight and easy to pack, making it a perfect souvenir.

• Cost: Prices range from approximately 600 THB ($17) for simple items to over 3,000 THB ($85) for high-quality brocades.
• Best places to buy: The Silk Zone at Old Siam Plaza, Jim Thompson House, Kham Koon Silk Shop at J.J. Mall. 

6. Thai Spices

Thailand has amazing food, and that probably influences your travel choices there! So why not bring a taste of Thailand home with you by buying some local spices? You can find familiar things like dried chilies and lemongrass, as well as unique spices like Thai peppercorns and holy basil, which are hard to find elsewhere. If you're exploring Thailand's islands and loving the food, this is the perfect souvenir to remember your trip.

• Cost: Generally inexpensive, ranging from 10 THB to 300 THB ($0.30 to $9).
• Best places to buy: Gourmet Market, Chatuchak Market, and Little India (Phahurat)

7. Sarong Pants

When it comes to truly embracing the Thai spirit, why not take home a piece of traditional clothing? Often made from lightweight materials like silk or cotton, Sarong pants come in a dazzling array of colors and patterns. A sarong can be worn in countless ways – as a skirt, a dress, a shawl, or even a beach cover-up. It's the ultimate multi-purpose garment for warm weather and a beautiful reminder of your time in Thailand.

• Cost: Prices typically range from 200 THB to 600 THB ($6 to $18).
• Best places to buy: Chatuchak Weekend Market, Local Beach Markets, Night Markets.

8. Ceramic Benjarong

Benjarong porcelain is a special type of colorful pottery with intricate designs that used to be loved by Thai royalty. It's still made by hand today in a village called Ban Don Kai Dee. You can actually visit the artists and watch them work or find these beautiful pieces at the floating markets. It's a souvenir that is both pretty and connected to Thai history.

• Cost: Prices usually range from 300 THB to 2,000 THB ($9 to $60).
• Best places to buy: Specialty shops in Chiang Mai and local markets.

9. Wooden Carvings

​​Thailand is known for its beautiful wood carvings, which are a traditional art form. You can find all sorts of carvings, from wall decorations and furniture to animal figures. Great places to find these are markets like Chatuchak and villages like Moken and Baan Tai. Wood carvings make fantastic gifts because they're both lovely to look at and useful around the house.

• Cost: Small items start around 100 THB ($3), while larger carving pieces can exceed 10,000 THB ($285).
• Best places to buy: Artisan villages in Chiang Mai and various night markets.

10. Thai Snacks and Sweets

​​Thai snacks are awesome gifts to bring back from Thailand! They're yummy and can give your loved ones a chance to try Thailand's unique flavors. With tons of different snacks to choose from, there's something for everyone, and they're usually cheap and easy to find.

Just make sure to buy from good stores and pick snacks that are packaged well so they don't get ruined on the way home. Some popular choices include durian, dried squid, seaweed snacks, crispy pork, and fish curry.

• Cost: Generally inexpensive; around 50 THB to 300 THB ($1.50 to $9).
• Best places to buy: Supermarkets and local markets throughout Thailand.

11. Muay Thai Shorts

Muay Thai holds a special place in Thai culture, with even young children participating in professional matches. If you're searching for a genuine and contemporary Thai souvenir, Muay Thai shorts are an excellent choice.

While not everyone enjoys combat sports, attending a live Muay Thai match is a great way to experience this aspect of Thai culture. Even if you're not a fan of martial arts, consider making an exception. You can find Muay Thai shorts throughout Thailand, but purchasing them near a fighting arena ensures quality.

• Cost: Typically priced between 300 THB to 1,200 THB ($9 to $34).
• Best places to buy: Sports shops in Bangkok or markets near boxing stadiums.

12. Wickerwork

Consider bringing home some Thai wickerwork for a touch of rustic charm and practicality. This traditional craft involves weaving natural materials like bamboo, rattan, and water hyacinth into beautiful and functional items. Not only is wickerwork aesthetically pleasing, but it's also lightweight and eco-friendly.

When choosing wickerwork, look for tightly woven pieces with smooth finishes, ensuring durability and quality. You can find these treasures in local markets, craft shops, and even alongside bustling roads where artisans often display their work.

• Cost: Prices range from 100 THB to 1,500 THB ($3 to $45).
• Best places to buy: Chiang Mai night markets and artisan shops.

13. Small Buddha Statues

Since most people in Thailand are Buddhist, a small Buddha statue makes a great souvenir, especially if you're interested in spirituality. You can find all kinds of Buddha statues in Thailand, made from different materials like bronze and wood and in different styles. 

Markets, street vendors, and temples are good places to look. Just remember that there are rules about exporting Buddha statues, especially bigger ones. You might need permission to bring certain statues out of Thailand. If you love Buddhism, a small Buddha statue is a wonderful souvenir to take home.

• Cost: Ranges from about 100 THB to over 1,000 THB ($3 to $30).
• Best places to buy: Temples and souvenir shops in tourist areas.

14. Coconut Products

​​Thailand has a lot of coconut trees, so it's no surprise they make all sorts of things from coconuts! You can find coconut food products like coconut milk, water, sugar, and oil. They also use coconut fibers and shells to make useful things like baskets and ropes.

You can find these coconut products everywhere in Thailand, from markets to street vendors. They make great souvenirs because they're a taste of Thai culture and are known for being natural and healthy. If you're looking for coconut goodies, check out the Coconut Museum in Koh Samui or markets in Bangkok.

• Cost: Typically priced between 50 THB and 500 THB ($1.50 to $15).
• Best places to buy: Markets throughout Thailand.

15. Naraya Bags

When considering what to buy in Thailand for ladies, Naraya bags stand out as a must-have souvenir. They are great items that seamlessly blend Thai craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. Their signature designs often feature beautiful floral patterns, traditional Thai motifs, and charming ribbon accents.

And the best part? Naraya bags won't break the bank. You can snag a stylish pouch for a few bucks or splurge on a gorgeous handbag without feeling guilty. They're perfect for everyday use, a fancy night out, or even as a handy travel companion.

• Cost: Prices typically range from 300 THB to 1,200 THB ($9 to $34).
• Best places to buy: Naraya stores are located in shopping malls across Thailand.

16. Hill Tribe Handicrafts

For a truly unique and culturally rich souvenir, consider purchasing handicrafts made by Thailand's hill tribes. Hill tribe handicrafts offer a diverse range of products, from textiles and clothing to jewelry and home decor.

You'll find stunning handwoven textiles with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often used to create bags, scarves, and wall hangings. Many tribes are also skilled in silverwork, producing beautiful jewelry adorned with traditional motifs and semi-precious stones.

• Cost: Generally ranges from 200 THB to over 1,500 THB ($6 to $45).
• Best places to buy: Markets in northern Thailand, such as Chiang Mai.

17. Elephant Pants

Known for their loose, comfortable fit and vibrant prints featuring (you guessed it!) elephants, these pants are a popular choice for travelers and locals alike. They're perfect for exploring temples, relaxing on the beach, or even just lounging around at home. Plus, the lightweight fabric makes them easy to pack and carry.

• Cost: Generally priced between 200 THB to 500 THB ($6 to $15).
• Best places to buy: Khao San Road, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Chatuchak Weekend Market.

18. Khon Masks

For a truly unique souvenir that embodies Thai culture, consider a Khon mask. These elaborately decorated masks are central to Khon, a traditional Thai masked dance drama based on the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana. Made from papier-mâché or carved wood, they are adorned with intricate details, vibrant colors, and elaborate headdresses.

While authentic performance masks can be expensive, smaller, decorative versions are available in markets and souvenir shops. These make stunning displays in your home and serve as a captivating reminder of Thailand's rich cultural traditions.

• Cost: Prices can range from about 500 THB up to several thousand baht depending on details.
• Best places to buy: Specialty shops in Bangkok or cultural centers.

19. ChaTraMue Tea

When exploring what to buy in Thailand, ChaTraMue – better known as Thai Original Brand Tea – is a great souvenir that captures the heart of Thai flavor and tradition. Originating from Thailand's deep-rooted tea traditions, ChaTraMue is instantly recognizable by its distinctive green packaging featuring a traditional Thai-style umbrella logo.

The brand's most famous product, its Thai iced tea mix, has become a global symbol of Thai refreshment, beloved by both locals and international travelers. Its unique blend of strongly brewed black tea, sweetened condensed milk, and signature spices create a distinctive flavor profile that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Thai cuisine.

• Cost: Generally priced around 100 THB for a box of tea bags ($3).
• Best places to buy: Supermarkets or specialty tea shops throughout Thailand.

20. Flower Soap Carvings

Thailand is known for its beautiful and intricate carvings, which you'll see everywhere, even if you're only there for a week. Originally stemming from fruit carving, Thais now carve intricate designs into soap! These small, affordable, and practical pieces of art make excellent souvenirs. You can find them in a variety of designs, like flowers and animals, perfect for taking a piece of Thailand back home.

• Cost: Typically priced between 100 THB and 800 THB ($3 to $24).
• Best places to buy: Local artisan shops or markets specializing in handicrafts.

>>> Recommended reading: 19 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Thailand
 

Tips for Shopping in Thailand

Bargaining and Getting the Best Deals

Haggling is an art form in Thailand, and mastering it can save you significant money in your Thailand travel costs. Always approach bargaining with a smile and a friendly attitude – think of it as a friendly game. Aggression or frustration will only hinder your chances of getting a good deal.

When you find something you like, start by offering 50-60% of the asking price. The vendor will likely counter with a higher offer, and you can gradually meet somewhere in the middle. To impress the locals and potentially soften their stance, try using a few basic Thai phrases.  "เท่าไร" (tao rai - how much?) and "แพงไป" (paeng pai - too expensive) can go a long way in building rapport.

Want to boost your bargaining power? Try buying multiple items from the same vendor. This gives you more leverage to negotiate a better price overall. And don't be afraid to walk away if you're not happy with the offer. Often, this is the most powerful negotiation tactic, and vendors may call you back with a better price.

Keep in mind that bargaining is most common in bustling markets, street stalls, and smaller independent shops. It's generally not expected in high-end boutiques, department stores, or established retail chains.

Hunting for Authenticity

While Thailand is a shopper's paradise, it's also important to be aware of counterfeit goods. If you're looking for authentic Thai silk, gemstones, or antiques, it's best to buy from reputable dealers and established shops. Ask about the origin and materials used, and don't hesitate to request certificates of authenticity when applicable.

Shop Smart in Markets

Thailand's markets are a treasure trove of unique finds, but they can also be crowded and overwhelming. Keep a close eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing, and be prepared for the hustle and bustle. It's also a good idea to carry small denominations of Thai Baht for easier transactions.

>>> Read more:

The Best 10-Day Thailand Travel Itinerary for First-Timers

Where to Stay in Bangkok, Thailand: A Complete Guide

How to Get to Pattaya from Bangkok: The 5 Best Ways

So, there you have it! A glimpse into the captivating world of what to buy in Thailand. Now it's your turn to explore the bustling markets, uncover hidden gems, and haggle your way to the perfect treasures. Embrace the adventure, and let your shopping spree in Thailand be a journey of discovery and delight.