Legal Drinking Age In Thailand And Best Nightlife
Wondering about the legal drinking age in Thailand?
The first time I visited Thailand, I was 28 years old.
And the nightlife was so outrageously exciting that I wondered why I hadn’t traveled here much sooner.
I have now been to Thailand several times. From clubbing in Bangkok to partying with backpackers on Khao San Road, I absolutely love Thailand’s nightlife.
We have backpacked through the mountains of Chiang Mai and enjoyed drinks with locals. We also stayed awake all night, celebrating the Full Moon Party on Ko Pha-ngan island with other travelers.
I strongly recommend adding the entire country to your nightlife bucket list.
But before you dive in headfirst, it’s essential to know about the legal drinking age and other alcohol-related laws in this Southeast Asian paradise.
In this post, I’ll explore Thailand’s legal drinking age, some unusual laws surrounding alcohol consumption, and tips for responsibly enjoying the country’s amazing nightlife.
What Is The Legal Drinking Age In Thailand?
The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old, and retail sellers and service providers are not allowed to sell alcohol to individuals under this age.
Violators can face penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or both.
The Legal Minimum Age For Drinking And Purchasing Alcohol
In Thailand, the minimum legal age for drinking and purchasing alcohol is set at 20 years old.
Only one year younger than the minimum legal drinking age in the United States.
This Thai law was implemented to promote responsible drinking among Thai people and protect minors from the potential dangers of underage alcohol consumption.
Despite its relatively strict legal requirements, enforcement of these rules can vary within the country depending on where you are.
In tourist-heavy areas such as Phuket or Bangkok, establishments may be more lenient about checking identification before selling alcohol due to a bustling nightlife catering to international visitors’ desires.
However, it’s crucial not to assume that one will go unnoticed if underaged.
Authorities can enforce penalties against those caught violating this law by imposing fines or even imprisonment in serious cases.
Penalties For Violating The Law
Violating the legal drinking age in Thailand can result in severe consequences for underage drinkers and the establishments providing them with alcohol.
The penalties include up to 6 months imprisonment and/or a hefty fine, serving as a strong deterrent for those considering breaking this law.
One noteworthy example is when Thai authorities conducted several high-profile raids on popular tourist locations.
This included places like Khao San Road and various nightclubs throughout Bangkok, cracking down on establishments allowing underage drinking.
As a result, bars and clubs within these areas were fined heavily or forced to close temporarily until they could prove compliance with the law.
Regional Exceptions And Variances
If you’re planning to drink in Thailand, you should know that the law is pretty strict about it.
No matter where you go in the country, you have to be at least 20 years old to buy or drink alcoholic beverages.
There are no exceptions or loopholes for different regions or cities.
The law applies to everyone, even visitors and expats. So don’t try giving booze to someone who’s underage. It’s not worth the risk.
You could end up paying a hefty fine or even going to jail.
Drinking in Thailand can be a lot of fun, but you also have to respect the local culture and etiquette.
For example, you can’t drink in public places like parks or temples. That’s a big no-no. And on some religious holidays, you can’t drink at all.
Also, when you drink with Thai people, you should follow some simple rules of manners.
For example, pour drinks for others before yourself, hold your glass lower when you toast someone older or of higher status than you, and say cheers!
Other Unusual Drinking Laws And Rules
Aside from the legal drinking age in Thailand, other interesting drinking laws and rules might surprise tourists.
For instance, public drinking is prohibited, but it’s not uncommon to see locals discreetly sipping on alcoholic beverages at night markets or during festivals.
Another unusual rule is that it’s illegal to buy alcohol online or over the phone in Thailand.
This means you must physically visit a store or bar to purchase any alcoholic beverage.
One more thing tourists should be aware of when consuming alcohol in Thailand is that drunk driving penalties are severe.
If caught drunk driving above the legal limit (0.05%), drivers can face imprisonment for up to one year, along with heavy fines.
Best Nightlife & Fun Facts About Drinking In Thailand
Thailand has a vibrant nightlife culture, and drinking is integral to it.
Full Moon Party
If you’re looking for a wild night out, you can’t miss the Full Moon Party on Ko Pha-ngan island in Southern Thailand.
It’s a legendary bash that happens every month when the moon is full and bright.
We were lucky enough to find a room on Ko Phangan for the Full Moon Party. However, there are ferries that go back and forth from Koh Samui if you can’t find any rooms available.
Tens of thousands of people flock to Hat Rin Beach to party like there’s no tomorrow.
The island is very small, and rooms fill up super fast. So I recommend booking one as early as possible.
You’ll find tons of clubs along the shore, blasting all kinds of music from house to techno to R&B. Be sure to try some delicious Thai food and drink your fill of Chang beer or cocktail buckets.
But that’s not all. There are also fire shows, body painting, fireworks, and even a water slide to spice things up.
The party started in the 80s as a small gathering of travelers who admired the moon on the beach.
Now, it’s a huge event that draws up to 30,000 people every month.
Just be careful, though. The party can be fun but risky, and drugs, theft, violence, and accidents are waiting to happen.
So stick with your friends, don’t take drinks from strangers, wear shoes to protect your feet from glass or fire, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Khao San Road
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to hang out in Bangkok, you can’t go wrong with Khao San Road.
It’s the backpacker capital of Southeast Asia, where you can find all kinds of bars and clubs to suit your mood.
If you want to dance the night away, listen to live music, or chill with a drink, Khao San has it all.
And remember to try some of the amazing street food that’s on offer. You can sample some of the best Thai dishes like pad thai and papaya salad or cool off with a fruit smoothie or fresh juice.
Khao San is a great spot to experience Thai culture and have a blast.
Also, there’s more to Khao San than just nightlife.
During the day, you can shop till you drop by the many stalls and shops that sell everything from souvenirs to books to clothes.
You can also pamper yourself with a massage, a tattoo, or a haircut at one of the many parlors along the street. Or you can sit back and watch the world go by at one of the cafes or restaurants.
Khao San is also a great place to meet other travelers and make new friends.
You can join one of the many tours or activities that the hostels or travel agencies offer in the area. We have found so many fun tours from this area!
You can also exchange tips and stories with fellow backpackers at the bars or clubs.
And if you want to see more of Bangkok, Khao San is a convenient base for exploring the city.
You can easily walk or take a tuk-tuk to visit some of the most famous attractions in the city, like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and more.
I also recommend you hop on a boat and explore the Chao Phraya River and its canals.
Khao San Road is where you can have everything: culture, history, adventure, and fun.
Popular Thai Drinks
When it comes to alcohol, Thai people love their beer, whiskey, and rum.
The most popular beer brand is Singha, followed by Chang and Leo. These beers are light and crisp, just what you need to beat the heat.
Whiskey is also a big hit, especially when mixed with soda or water, to make a cool drink called “whiskey soda” or “whiskey water.”
And don’t forget about Sangsom rum, which can be sipped on its own or mixed into tasty cocktails like Mai Tai or Mojito.
But drinking alcohol in Thailand is not only about quenching your thirst but also about having fun and socializing with your friends and family.
Thai people like to share a large bottle of beer or whiskey with a group of people and pour it into small glasses with ice.
They also like to toast each other by saying “chon” or “chon gaew” before drinking.
While English is spoken in some areas, “Cheers” is also a universal term that is understood by all. 🍻
Another thing they do is to eat snacks, or appetizers called “gap glaem,” while drinking. These can be anything from peanuts and dried squid to spicy salads and grilled meat.
Of course, not everyone drinks alcohol in Thailand. There are also plenty of non-alcoholic drinks to choose from.
Some of the most popular ones are Thai tea and coconut water.
Thai iced tea can be made with black, green, or herbal tea and sweetened with sugar or condensed milk.
Coconut water is a natural and healthy drink that comes from young coconuts. It is rich in electrolytes and antioxidants and can help prevent dehydration and heatstroke.
Just be careful when sourcing water to drink in Thailand.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the legal drinking age in Thailand and the nightlife:
In general, ID is not asked for when purchasing alcohol in Thailand. However, bars and nightclubs may have their own policies or enforce the legal age limit of 20 years old. It’s always best to carry a form of identification just in case.
The legal age for entering clubs and buying alcohol in Thailand is 20. However, many establishments do not strictly enforce this law and may allow those who are 18 years old to enter.
The legal age for entering clubs and buying alcohol in Thailand is 20. However, many establishments do not strictly enforce this law and may allow those who are 18 years old to enter.
Yes, ID checks are common in many bars and clubs in Thailand, especially in tourist areas such as Bangkok’s Khao San Road. It is essential to carry proper identification (preferably a passport) at all times to prove your age when purchasing alcohol or entering establishments that serve it.
Penalties for underage drinking can be severe, including fines and imprisonment for both the offender and the establishment selling alcohol to minors.
Travel Insurance
When venturing to Thailand to experience its vibrant nightlife, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being.
That’s where SafetyWing travel insurance comes in as a game-changer.
This is the health insurance that we use personally during all of our travels.
With its comprehensive coverage and tailored benefits, SafetyWing ensures you can immerse yourself in the thrill of Thailand’s nightlife while having peace of mind.
From bustling night markets to energetic clubs, SafetyWing Nomad Insurance safeguards you against unexpected mishaps, such as medical emergencies or lost belongings.
Their 24/7 global assistance provides a comforting safety net, allowing you to fully enjoy the late-night adventures without worry.
So, before you lose yourself in the neon-lit streets of Bangkok or the beachside parties of Phuket, make sure you have SafetyWing by your side.
That way, you can make sure your Thailand nightlife experience remains unforgettable and worry-free.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, understanding the legal drinking age in Thailand and related laws is crucial for foreigners planning to enjoy the country’s vibrant nightlife.
It may be tempting to get a little crazy with your consumption of alcoholic beverages on vacation. But staying safe, respecting local customs, and complying with Thai laws are essential.
Whether you are out clubbing at 18 or enjoying a peaceful evening sipping beer, responsible drinking should always be a top priority while visiting this beautiful country.