Your Ultimate Hat Yai Travel Guide
Discover the Best Travel Tips for Your Hat Yai Adventure
Is Hat Yai Worth Visiting?
Hat Yai is a vibrant city in Southern Thailand, known for its shopping, delicious food, and cultural attractions. While it might not be the first choice for first-time visitors to Thailand with limited time, it offers an authentic Thai experience away from the typical tourist crowds.
What to Bring to Hat Yai
Packing appropriately for Hat Yai’s climate and activities will make your trip more enjoyable. Here’s our recommended packing list:
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear for water attractions
- Sunhat and sunglasses
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Casual and slightly dressy outfits
Essentials
- Valid passport and travel documents
- Thai Baht and credit/debit cards
- Travel insurance information
- Mobile phone and charger
- Small backpack or day bag
- Reusable water bottle
Toiletries
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Insect repellent
- Basic toiletries
- Personal medications and first aid kit
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Skincare products
Electronics
- Camera or smartphone
- Portable power bank
- Plug adapters for Thailand
- Headphones or earphones
- Other electronic devices
Outdoor Gear
- Comfortable daypack
- Lightweight quick-dry towel
- Hiking shoes for wildlife sanctuary
- Binoculars for bird watching
- Foldable picnic blanket
Miscellaneous
- Local guidebook or map
- Travel journal and pen
- Snacks and energy bars
- Reusable shopping bag
- Dietary requirements medications
What Should I Know Before Going to Hat Yai?
Pros of Visiting Hat Yai
- Shopping: Modern malls and traditional markets
- Delicious Food: Famous Southern Thai cuisine
- Natural Beauty: Waterfalls and parks nearby
- Beautiful Temples: Home to impressive Buddhist temples
- Vibrant Night Market: Wide variety of food and souvenirs
Challenges in Hat Yai
- Crowded: Especially during festivals and holidays
- Rainy Season: September-December with occasional flooding
- Hot and Humid: Can be uncomfortable for some visitors
- Language Barrier: English not widely spoken
- Limited Nightlife: Beyond the night market
Hat Yai Weather
What to Buy in Hat Yai
Take home a piece of Southern Thailand with these unique souvenirs:
Thai Silk
Beautiful, high-quality silk that’s difficult to find outside Thailand.
Local Crafts
Handmade items representing Southern Thai culture and traditions.
Snacks, Coffee & Teas
Local delicacies and beverages that make perfect edible souvenirs.
Thai Cosmetics
Natural beauty products made from local ingredients.
Traditional Clothing
Beautiful Thai traditional outfits and fabrics at great prices.
Handicrafts & Wood Carvings
Intricate wood carvings and handmade crafts unique to Southern Thailand.
Culture & Etiquette
Respect the Monarchy & Religion
Never criticize or disrespect the King or Buddha images.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
Remove Your Shoes
Always take off shoes before entering temples or homes.
Avoid Touching Heads
The head is considered sacred in Thai culture.
Wai Greeting
Use the traditional “wai” greeting with palms together as a sign of respect.
Respect for Monks
Women should avoid physical contact with Buddhist monks.
Health & Safety
Drink Bottled Water
Avoid tap water to prevent illness.
Use Sun Protection
The sun is strong year-round; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
Be Wary of Animals
Keep distance from stray dogs or wild animals to avoid diseases.
Secure Belongings
Be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Vaccinations
Check CDC recommendations before traveling to Thailand.
Getting Around Hat Yai
Grab
Ride-sharing app that works like Uber throughout Thailand.
Songthaew
Shared taxi pickup trucks with covered seating in the back.
Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw
Three-wheeled open vehicles, great for tours but more expensive.
Motorbike Rental
Popular option but requires an international driver’s license.
Getting to Hat Yai
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Money Matters
Exchange currency only after arriving in Thailand for better rates, and get a local SIM card or get our best Voye eSIM card for easy data access.
Transportation
Use the Grab app for reliable ride-hailing, but also be cautious on scooters if you choose to rent one.
Packing Essentials
Pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a light rain jacket, a power bank, and a universal adapter.
Food
Don’t hesitate to try street food, which is often delicious and affordable.
Things to Avoid
- Unethical Animal Tourism: Skip elephant rides and other shows that exploit animals; instead, visit ethical sanctuaries.
- Illegal Drugs: Do not engage with illegal drugs to stay out of trouble with the law.
- Scams: Be alert to common tourist scams, like those involving gem or tailor shops.
Know Before You Go
Language
The official language of Thailand is Thai.
Currency
Thai baht
SYMBOL: ฿
ABBREVIATION: THB
CONVERSION: The currency rate is subject to change but typically 1 THB ~ $0.30 USD or $1 USD ~ 30 ฿
Plugs Used
Thailand uses plug types A, B, and C with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency 50Hz; This voltage is higher than in the U.S. so as standard rule of thumb, I suggest traveling with a plug adapter with a converter, especially when using hot tool appliances such as a straightener.
Visa
U.S. citizens can travel without a visa to Thailand if staying for less than 30 days. Visa information is subject to changes so double check here.
Health
To check health advisories and what vaccinations are needed to travel to Thailand check the CDC website.
Safety
*Before traveling anywhere you should check the U.S. Government Travel Advisory for your own knowledge.
Overall, Thailand is a very safe country to travel to! It’s a popular destination for new travelers, especially solo, because of how easy it is to travel through. But like anywhere you should follow the basic tips:
My top safety tips:
- Have a lock on your luggage and make sure your day bag has a zipper or is closed to avoid pick pockets.
- Don’t do drugs, party alone, or walk alone at night.
- Take photos of your motorbike when you rent it to avoid being scammed to pay for already existing damages.
- Wear a helmet and be careful if you do drive.
- Stay away from animals especially stray dogs.
- Practice good hygiene and don’t drink tap water.
- GET TRAVEL INSURANCE! – Best Travel Insurance
Where to Stay in Hat Yai
Top recommended hotels in Hat Yai for a comfortable stay:
Centara Hotel Hat Yai
Luxury accommodation in the heart of the city with excellent amenities.
View HotelLee Gardens Plaza Hotel
Popular hotel featuring shopping mall access and multiple dining options.
View Hotel
