Travel Budget for Hat Yai Visit Hat Yai on a Budget or Travel in Style

Hat Yai, Changwat Songkhla, Thailand

Hat Yai is a lively city known for Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, Hat Yai Municipal Park, and the Asean Night Bazaar. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Hat Yai?

You should plan to spend around $25 (฿861) per day on your vacation in Hat Yai. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $19 (฿642) on meals
  • $0.68 (฿23) on local transportation
  • $11 (฿375) on hotels

A one week trip to Hat Yai for two people costs, on average, $357 (฿12,054). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $25
    ฿861
  • One Week Per person
    $178
    ฿6,027
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $357
    ฿12,054
  • One Month Per person
    $764
    ฿25,830
  • One Week For a couple
    $357
    ฿12,054
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $713
    ฿24,108
  • One Month For a couple
    $1,529
    ฿51,660
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hat Yai cost?

A one week trip to Hat Yai usually costs around $178 (฿6,027) for one person and $357 (฿12,054) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hat Yai on average costs around $357 (฿12,054) for one person and $713 (฿24,108) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hat Yai will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hat Yai on average costs around $764 (฿25,830) for one person and $1,529 (฿51,660) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Hat Yai expensive to visit?

Hat Yai is a small yet captivating city that lures visitors with differing travel styles, spending levels, and budgetary preferences. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.

Hat Yai has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by eating at less expensive restaurants and looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $13 (฿468) per day, mid-range travelers spend $25 (฿861) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $50 (฿1,741) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Hat Yai.

Within Asia, Hat Yai is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in Asia for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Hat Yai.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hat Yai Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Hat Yai?

The average Hat Yai trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hat Yai travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Hat Yai cost?

Hat Yai on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$6
(฿188)
$6
(฿188)
$6
(฿188)
Local Transportation 1 $1
(฿19)
$1
(฿23)
$1
(฿31)
Food 2 $8
(฿262)
$19
(฿642)
$44
(฿1,496)
Alcohol 2 $1-4
(฿46-139)
$1-4
(฿46-139)
$1-4
(฿46-139)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Hat Yai, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $13 daily average that backpackers get away with.

Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.

For visitors to Hat Yai, food is often a highlight, but budget travelers frequently choose street food or cook in their hostels, which may limit their experience of the local culinary delights.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Most visitors to Hat Yai will want to visit Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, Hat Yai Municipal Park, or the Asean Night Bazaar. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $25 per person, per day.

In Hat Yai, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Buri Sriphu Boutique Hotel is a fantastic option for families, and G2 Hotel Hatyai is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Hat Yai here.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $50 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the city, prepare for a pricier experience.

Accommodation Budget in Hat Yai

The price of hotels in Hat Yai can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury and amenities, but with much higher price tags, especially during peak season. Off-season averages are around $18, while peak winter season averages can reach $34. Prices range from $13 to $54, but hostels are usually cheaper. Traveling during the low season and booking early are good ways to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Hat Yai for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $11 (฿375). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $5.55 (฿188) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $5.55
    ฿188
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $11
    ฿375

Hotels in Hat Yai

Looking for a hotel in Hat Yai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Hat Yai

The average hotel room price in Hat Yai based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $18 in the low season and $34 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Hat Yai include:

  • New Season Square Hotel starting at $40
  • De Poem Loft Boutique Residence starting at $28
  • Nutchana Hill Boutique Hotel starting at $20
  • Udee Living Place starting at $19
  • Lopburi Garden Resort starting at $13
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Hat Yai

Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding winter will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Hat Yai

Unfortunately, Hat Yai does not have a reliable public transit network. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Regrettably, a large portion of the city lacks walkability. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (moderate)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $0.68 (฿23) per person, per day, on local transportation in Hat Yai. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Hat Yai is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $0.68
    ฿23

A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:

  • Private Hatyai Airport Transfer to Pak Bara Pier by Van for $75 details
  • Private Van transfer from Hatyai Airport to Pak Bara Pier for $80 details
  • Transfer from Hatyai Airport to Koh Lipe for $25 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Hat Yai
How much does it cost to go to Hat Yai? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Hat Yai
The price of renting a car in Hat Yai will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Hat Yai

The dining in Hat Yai is truly world-class, and you should definitely experience it. Be sure to enjoy meals at local restaurants and sample some unique offerings. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Hat Yai can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Hat Yai is $19 (฿642) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $19
    ฿642

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Hat Yai is around $18 (฿642) per person, with previous travelers spending from $8 to $43. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Hat Yai are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $2 to $6
  • Lunch: $3 to $7
  • Dinner: $6 to $13
  • Coffee: $1
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $3

Being a large city, Hat Yai is host to a large amount of different food options. While there are international chains offering Japanese and Western food for the less adventurous palette, Thai street food is abundant and a must for experiencing the local flavors. Here are some of the favorites:

Thai Boat Noodle (Doy Kuay Teow Reua): small bowl with slices of pork, a pork ball, bean sprouts, kang kong (water spinach), and garnished with spring onions and coriander, can be served dry or in soup.

Pad Thai Noodles: national dish of Thailand, includes freshly fried noodles, tamarind, garlic, chili, peanuts and sometimes vegetables.

Thai Grilled Pork Skewers (Moo Ping): seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and sugar.

Thai Grilled Chicken (Gai Yang): Thailand's version of street BBQ

Pad Kra Pao: minced pork or chicken stir-fried with Thai basil and chilies and served over white rice

Pad See Ew: warm and comforting dish of wide flat noodles stir-fried in a dark soy-sauce with chicken, pork, or beef, and some vegetables.

Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Neeo Mamuang): served with a coconut milk syrup.

These are just a few examples of the many tasty Thai dishes to try in Hat Yai.

Food in Hat Yai

Food & Dining Tips

Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.

Use a water bottle instead of splurging on drinks everywhere you go. It's a smart choice for the environment, too.

Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.


What did other people spend on food and dining in Hat Yai?

Typical prices for food in Hat Yai are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Hat Yai. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.


  • Roti Snack
    ฿20


Nightlife Budget in Hat Yai

Hat Yai provides a selection of nightlife activities, but it doesn't quite stack up to the lively scenes in other popular areas. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $2.74 (฿93) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Hat Yai per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $2.74
    ฿93
Nightlife Tips

Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.

When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.


What did other people spend on Alcohol in Hat Yai?

Typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Hat Yai are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the drink prices in Hat Yai. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, how often you drink alcoholic beverages, and how much you order. Keep in mind that if you want to save money on your trip, cutting out alcohol can make one of the biggest impacts on your travel budget.


  • Beer
    ฿60


Travel cost data last updated: Dec 19, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Hat Yai

  • To save money, take advantage of the free activities. Some of the top free activities include:
    • Hat Yai Municipal Park
    • The Asean Night Bazaar
    • Songkhla Old Town
    • Khlong Hae Floating Market
    • Wat Hat Yai Nai
  • Expect higher prices and busy crowds during peak season in winter in the city. You can save money and enjoy a calmer visit by opting for the shoulder or low seasons instead.
  • Adopting a slower travel pace can lead to significant savings, giving you the chance to appreciate the area's beauty. If your schedule is packed with activities, your expenses can add up quickly. Conversely, slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable experience and less money spent overall.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Public transportation is quite scarce in Hat Yai. It may be beneficial to arrange a form of transport in advance, like a private car or tour. Keep in mind that this could impact your budget in other ways.
  • Hat Yai doesn't have a vibrant hostel scene, so if you were counting on finding a cheap dorm, it might be time to adjust your plans. Consider looking for an affordable hotel or an apartment rental instead.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Hat Yai.

How can you save money during your time in Hat Yai?

I love that everything is cheap here because it's not one of the more touristy places in Thailand. We went to the park and rode the cable car up to the top of the peak and it was very cheap. We also did a tour to the waterfalls and it was also pretty cheap. The markets are fun and free, too.

jackson_t
-
Mar 29 2024
Traveling in Hat Yai
Hat Yai Hat Yai, Thailand

The fourth largest city of Thailand, Hat Yai is a popular tourist destination, especially on weekends and holidays for people in neighboring Malaysia and Singapore. It is best known as a commercial hub and shopping destination, and for its floating market and Buddhist temple.



Neighborhoods & Around

Due to its shopping reputation, the downtown of Hat Yai is mostly developed into shopping and entertainment venues. For a more unique experience different from typical shopping malls and department stores, head to the Klong Hae floating market and do some shopping there. Hat Yai has additional markets sprinkled throughout its streets, some of which really come to life at night with lights and colors. No matter where you turn, if you are wandering the streets of central Hat Yai, there will be plenty to see, do, eat, and experience at every corner.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.