How to visit Koh Samui on a Budget

Thailand is one of the easiest places in Southeast Asia to travel without breaking the bank. Particularly, Koh Samui, its second largest island, is a premier destination for budget travellers. Encompassing rich culture, low living costs, and magnificent low-cost or free places to visit, such as majestic temples, this is a great place to explore without spending much. Here is a guide to help you travel to Koh Samui on a budget. 

Travel during the low season 

Koh Samui’s off-peak season is from mid-September to mid-December. This is a great time to seek some low-price accommodations, affordable flight tickets and also low rates on excursions. Though frequent showers prevail during this period, you will still find plenty to explore there. If you decide to place your vacation there during this time of year, try to avoid November, as it is generally the wettest time of the year in Koh Samui.

Check for accommodation deals and discounts

  NH Collection Samui Peace Resort offers fully flexible rates on date changes. You also get up to 20 per cent off if you decide to stay longer at the resort. Such deals should be reviewed closely if you wish to enjoy world-class facilities at affordable rates at the place you are staying. You can get insights into such discounts and offers on hotel websites. So check these out before deciding where to stay. 

Choose affordable travel 

The best means of travelling in Koh Samui without breaking the bank would be using songthaews. These are public shared pickup trucks that are red. They follow clear routes which are close to some of the top tourist sites in the area. If you are in Koh Samui as a solo traveller or with your partner, you can also rent a scooter. This is another economical means of navigating the destination, which is fast and lets you travel at your own pace and visit places which may be far from the spots that songthaews pass. 

Visit free or cheap attractions 

Temple visits are one of the best means of exploring the culture for free. There are several such religious sites to explore in Koh Samui. You can add places like Big Buddha Temple and Wat Plai Laem to your itinerary. Visit Wat Khunaram to witness the preserved body of a revered monk. Those who love nature can visit Lad Koh Viewpoint or Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks for panoramic views of the surroundings. More natural beauty and hiking experiences await you at Na Muang Waterfall. Chaweng and Lamai Beaches are ideal spots for relaxation. 

Shop at budget-friendly local markets 

Enjoy significant savings, immerse yourself in the local culture and take home some unique items that are worth the money when you engage in a budget-friendly shopping experience in Koh Samui. One of the best places to enjoy this is Fisherman’s Village Walking Street. Find handmade jewellery, silk items, products made using coconut oil and more. Many hotels in Koh Samui are situated near such places so that their guests can have easy access to these to buy exclusive items while saving during their holiday.  

Eat local street food

A great way to maximise funds for some of the activities you have in mind is to eat at places after checking out the prices. Luckily, plenty of street food outlets and markets dot the Koh Samui landscape. These are more authentic and fresh as well, compared to the meals found at high-end restaurants. Some of the dishes you can add to your list to sample include Som Tam (papaya salad), Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), Mango Sticky Rice, Pad Krapow (basil stir-fry), and roti pancakes.