Common Scams in Thailand (2025): How Tourists Can Avoid Them

Thailand is one of the most welcoming countries in Southeast Asia, but like any popular tourist destination, it’s not free of scams. Most visitors have an incredible time, but knowing what to look out for can help you avoid unpleasant experiences.

This guide outlines the most common scams in Thailand as of 2025 and shows you how to avoid them safely and confidently.

1. The Closed Temple Scam

Someone near a temple tells you it’s “closed today” and suggests a tuk-tuk ride to another attraction. The driver then takes you to overpriced shops or travel agencies instead.

How to avoid: Always check temple hours online or walk in to verify yourself. Never trust strangers insisting something is closed.

2. Overpriced Tuk-Tuk Tours

Tuk-tuk drivers offer you an all-day tour for a low fee, but take you to jewelry stores, tailor shops, and other businesses where they earn commissions.

How to avoid: Agree on a route and price in advance. Decline tours that seem too cheap.

3. Jet Ski Damage Scam

Tourists rent a jet ski and are later accused of causing damage. The rental shop demands large payments, even if the damage was pre-existing.

How to avoid: Avoid jet ski rentals unless you fully inspect the equipment and photograph it beforehand. Use reputable rental providers only.

4. Motorbike Rental Passport Scam

Some rental shops ask for your passport as a deposit. Later, they may accuse you of damage or loss to force you to pay before returning it.

How to avoid: Never leave your passport. Offer a copy and a cash deposit instead, or use a shop with good reviews.

5. Gem Scam

You’re told you can buy precious stones in Thailand and sell them at a profit in your home country. These “gems” are usually overpriced or fake.

How to avoid: Avoid unsolicited advice about investments. If you’re buying jewelry, go to reputable, certified shops.

6. Taxi Meter Refusal

Some taxi drivers refuse to use the meter and quote inflated flat fees, especially from airports or tourist hotspots.

How to avoid: Only get into taxis that agree to use the meter. Or use apps like Grab for fixed pricing and safety.

7. Currency Exchange Tricks

In some cases, small exchange booths may shortchange you by using fake rates or giving incorrect change.

How to avoid: Use official exchange counters or withdraw cash from ATMs with known banks.

8. Fake Tours or Travel Agencies

Scammers may sell you cheap tours or ferry tickets, then disappear or deliver poor service (or nothing at all).

How to avoid: Book tours through your hotel, reputable platforms, or agencies with Google reviews.

9. Friendly Stranger Offering Help

A local starts a friendly chat, offering to show you around or help with travel tips, but leads you into a scam, overpriced service, or “exclusive” store.

How to avoid: Be polite but cautious with unsolicited offers. Don’t follow strangers to unplanned destinations.

10. Bar or Nightclub Scams

Some clubs may overcharge for drinks, add hidden fees, or inflate your bill unexpectedly — especially in tourist nightlife zones.

How to avoid: Always ask for a menu with prices and verify your bill before paying. Avoid places that seem pushy or empty.

Conclusion

Most people travel through Thailand without issues, but being aware of common scams allows you to avoid traps that target tourists. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and verify prices or claims before committing. That way, your experience will be smooth, safe, and unforgettable.