Thailand is a beautiful country known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. But like many popular tourist destinations, it's also a hotspot for scams that target unsuspecting visitors. To help you have a safe and enjoyable trip, we’ve rounded up the most common tourist scams in Thailand—with straightforward advice on how to spot and avoid them.

One of the most enduring scams in Thailand (often unfold in Bangkok or Chiang Mai) involves fake or low-quality gemstones. Friendly locals, often pretending to be certified jewelers, lure tourists into shops with the promise of rare and valuable gems sold at “special prices.” In reality, these stones are usually synthetic or have much less value than stated. Some even offer fake certificates of authenticity.

Remember: if you’re not a gemstone expert, avoid buying them unless you’re dealing with a reputable, well-known dealer. Or buy gemstones from government-approved shops like those in the Jewelry Trade Center.

Tuk-tuks are a fun way to get around, but drivers sometimes work with local shops to trick tourists. After a friendly chat, a driver might offer a city tour for a very low price. Instead of a sightseeing adventure, they’ll take you to stores—like tailors or gem shops—where you’ll be pressured to buy overpriced items. The driver gets a commission for bringing you.

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is—always agree on your route and price in advance, and beware of unsolicited tour offers.

Some taxi drivers in Thailand refuse to use the meter and instead quote a “flat rate” much higher than the real price—or take longer routes to drive up the fare. Some collaborate with gem or tailor shops.

Always insist the meter is used and, if the driver refuses, simply find another taxi. Ride-sharing apps and public transport (like BTS or the MRT) are also good alternatives to avoid being overcharged. Or walk away if drivers negotiate unfairly.

In this scam, a taxi or tuk-tuk driver will tell you that a famous site like the Grand Palace is closed for a “special event” or religious ceremony. They’ll suggest an alternative place, but en route they’ll stop at shops where you’re pressured to make purchases. Always double-check opening times yourself—major attractions rarely close without notice—and be wary of anyone claiming they are shut.

Along major beaches like Pattaya and Phuket, tourists renting jet skis are sometimes accused of causing “damage” upon return—usually minor scratches that likely predated the rental. The operator will demand huge repair fees and may involve a corrupt police officer to pressure payment, sometimes even threatening arrest. Take photos/videos of the vehicle before use, rent from reputable shops, and avoid leaving your passport as collateral.

Similar to jet ski scams, some rental shops claim you’ve damaged a motorbike upon return—even if you haven’t. They might hold onto your passport as collateral, giving them leverage to demand payment. To avoid trouble, photograph the bike before renting, rent from reputable places (hotel or highly reviewed shops), and never leave your original passport as a deposit—use a copy instead.

Fraudsters might approach you with fake charity stories or tell you tales of emergency hardship, hoping to touch your heart and ask for money. Sometimes, these scams happen online, with people posing as friends or family in need.

Whether it’s for a supposed hospital bill or a fabricated charity, be very careful before sending money, especially to strangers or new acquaintances. Verify urgent requests through direct contact with loved ones.

Tourists drawn to Thailand’s vibrant nightlife may face overpriced drinks, fake police raids, or being lured to bars where they’re forced to buy expensive drinks or pay fake fines. Occasionally, tourists may be accused of minor offenses and threatened unless they pay a “settlement.” Check prices before ordering, never accept drinks from strangers, and if there’s a police “raid,” ask for official ID and don’t panic. And keep valuables secure.

Beware of unofficial currency exchange booths or people offering great rates on the street. They offer “too-good-to-be-true” rates but shortchange tourists or use sleight-of-hand tricks. Only exchange currency at banks, authorized booths, or ATMs, and always count your money before leaving.

Someone may approach you, posing as a tourist police or government official, accusing you of breaking a law you’ve never heard of (e.g., visa issues, expired documents). They’ll demand a bribe to “resolve” the matter. If this happens, always ask to see official ID and documentation. Refuse to pay on the spot and insist on going to a police station.

Pickpockets sometimes squirt a liquid that looks like bird droppings onto you. When you're distracted and trying to clean it off, they or an accomplice offer to help—but use the moment to steal your wallet or phone. If someone tries to touch or help you, refuse politely and keep your belongings close.

Scammers may send emails pretending to be a friend or family member in trouble—robbed, arrested, or hospitalized—asking you to send money urgently. These emails are often not personal and may not even use your name. Always double-check the story independently, and if unsure, contact your embassy or the person directly through another means.

Don’t panic or use violence. Contact the Thai Tourist Police at 1155—they speak English and can help. You can also file a complaint at a tourist service center nearby.

Travel insurance is always recommended as a backup for any emergencies, including theft or scams.

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.