Hefty fines for Aussies: Thailand cracks down on drinking outside of legal hours
New travel warning all Australians visiting Thailand should know.
Thailand is known for its party scene but Aussies will soon need to curb their behaviour as new alcohol laws come into effect.
Thailand has established laws around when alcohol can be consumed and sold, but from November, individuals can be fined for non-compliance.
Across Thailand, alcohol may be sold at most venues only between 11am and 2pm, and 5pm and midnight, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
From November 8, customers who drink in pubs after closing time for alcohol sales face fines of up to 10,000 baht, around $470, the Bangkok Post reported.
Flight Centre Travel Group global leisure CEO, James Kavanagh, said responsibility for following liquor laws will now fall on individuals - not just venues.
"Travellers can still enjoy the country's incredible nightlife, but they'll just need to be a little more mindful of timing and where they choose to shop, dine and drink," Mr Kavanagh told Explore.
"That said, where you can get caught off-guard is ordering that 'one last round' before alcohol service ends. You can get fined for simply having a drink in your hand outside service hours, even if you ordered it within the legal time period."
The legal age for buying and drinking alcohol in Thailand is 20 years old.
The regulations affecting when alcohol can be sold don't apply to hotels, airports and railway premises.
An exemption for these venues was introduced in June 2025, to "reflect current realities while promoting public safety and responsible tourism", according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Sarah is Explore's Digital News Editor. She believes regional travel is just as fun (if not better) than staying in the big cities and loves any travel experience to do with nature, animals and food!. My all-time favourite destination is ... Cornwall. From the giant seagulls to the blustery beaches, Cornish pasties and fishing villages, it stirs something romantic and seafaring in me. Next on my bucket list is … Mongolia. I want to go somewhere really unique that feels totally foreign and challenges my way of life. My top travel tip is … Don’t plan too much. Walk the streets and let it happen. And make sure you check out what’s within a few blocks of your hotel - sometimes the best local food is found that way.
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