Travel to Thailand: new rules for luggage and possible additional fees
From 16 October 2026, the procedure for screening checked baggage will change. Two fees that could increase travel costs are also being considered, but have not yet been introduced.
Passengers traveling to Bangkok, Phuket or other Thai destinations this autumn should pay attention to packing their luggage.
When can security services open the suitcase?
According to the rules of the Thai Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT), as of October 16, security personnel may open checked baggage without the presence of passengers if an inspection reveals suspicious items or a possible threat to flight safety.
This does not mean that every suitcase will be opened. The inspection is carried out when there is a reason for it, with a recording of the procedure and a subsequent notification to the passenger. A TSA-compatible lock is recommended, which allows for opening with a special key and reduces the risk of damage to the luggage.
Bring the power bank in your carry-on luggage
When packing, it is also worth checking the existing regulations for portable chargers. The power bank must not be included in the checked luggage. A maximum of two per passenger is allowed in carry-on luggage.
Devices up to 100 Wh are permitted without prior approval. Capacities above 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh require airline approval. During the flight, the power bank must not be used to charge other devices or be charged itself. The power bank must remain accessible and must not be stored in the overhead compartment. Check your carrier’s rules before departure.
You also keep your passport, money, valuables, and important documents in your carry-on luggage.
Will traveling to Thailand be more expensive?
An incoming tourist fee of 450 baht is being considered for foreign visitors. Initially, it would cover arrivals by air, and the revenues would be used for tourist infrastructure, security, and visitor safety.
The separate proposal provides for a tax of 1,000 bahts upon departure by air, regardless of citizenship. The public consultation runs until October 29, 2026. Neither of the two measures has yet been introduced or has a confirmed start date for collection.
If both were accepted in their current form, a foreign tourist covered by both fees would pay an additional 1,450 baht for arriving and departing by plane. The existing international outbound fee of 1,120 baht at six AOT airports is already in effect and is not part of this new amount.
To agencies that are preparing instructions for travelers It is recommended to update baggage information and clearly mark new fees in offers as proposals.
