17 Best Souvenirs & Things to Buy in Thailand

One of the best parts of traveling is bringing a little piece of the country back home with you, and when it comes to Thailand, the shopping is almost as memorable as the temples, beaches, and food.

From bustling Night Markets in Bangkok to quiet craft villages in Chiang Mai, Thailand is full of unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you’re hunting for a thoughtful gift, a cultural keepsake, or just something fun to remind you of your trip, there’s no shortage of options.

I’ve compiled this list of the best things to buy from Thailand, ranging from classic items like Thai silk and elephant-themed trinkets to more unexpected finds, such as herbal inhalers and hand-painted umbrellas.

Some are practical, some are decorative, and some are simply delicious, but all of them capture a piece of Thai culture.

If you’re wondering what to buy in Thailand during your trip, this guide will help you narrow down your choices and shop smart while supporting local artisans along the way.

Authentic Thai Silk Scarves

Thai silk is one of the country’s most famous exports and makes for a timeless souvenir. The weaving tradition goes back centuries, and authentic silk is still produced in villages across northeastern Thailand, especially in the Isaan region.

Unlike the inexpensive factory versions you might see in tourist markets, genuine Thai silk has a distinctive sheen and slightly uneven texture that reveals it has been handwoven.

You’ll find silk scarves, ties, and even larger pieces of fabric that can be used for clothing or home décor. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and make elegant gifts. If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, I couldn’t recommend Jing Jai Day Market enough. Many local designers are selling comfortable and trendy cotton clothing.

If you’re shopping in Bangkok, Jim Thompson stores are known for their high-quality silk, but local Night Markets and boutique shops often have more affordable, authentic finds.

Handmade Thai Spices & Curry Paste

If you’ve ever tried cooking Thai food at home and felt like something was missing, it’s probably the spices. Thailand’s curry pastes and seasoning blends are rich, fragrant, and nearly impossible to replicate outside the country.

Markets all over Thailand sell small bags of curry paste, including red, green, panang, and massaman varieties, along with dried lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili flakes.

These make fantastic souvenirs for food lovers, and they’re practical too, as they last a long time when stored properly.

Be sure to buy from reputable stalls that seal their packages well for travel. If you want to level it up, some cooking schools in Chiang Mai and Bangkok even sell their own spice mixes, so you can recreate your favorite dishes once you’re back home.

Thai Herbal Inhalers (Ya Dom Style)

If you’ve ever been on a crowded bus or wandered through a Thai market, chances are you’ve seen locals using small herbal inhalers.

Known as ya dom, these come in two main types: the stick versions, which are incredibly convenient to keep in your pocket, and the tub versions, which many locals swear are the strongest.

Popular brands include Poy-Sian, Siang Pure, and the herbal Hong Thai inhaler tub, each with its own loyal following. They’re usually packed with essential oils like menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus, instantly clearing your nose and giving a refreshing jolt.

This is one of those souvenirs that makes the perfect little gift to bring back for friends and family. I still remember trying one years ago, and since then, I’ve had many. They’re an absolute lifesaver when you’re sick or dealing with a stuffy nose.

You’ll find them everywhere, at 7-Elevens, pharmacies, and local markets, often for less than a dollar each. For something so small, they pack a big punch, and they’re one of those uniquely Thai items that are both practical and memorable.

Home Decor from Thailand

Thailand has an incredible craft scene, and one of the best ways to bring a piece of it home is through décor.

Think carved wooden elephants, bamboo lamps, lacquerware bowls, and handmade ceramic pieces. These aren’t just souvenirs, they’re functional art that can bring Thai design into your home.

Chiang Mai is especially renowned for its artisan villages, where you can purchase items directly from the makers.

No Bangkok itinerary is complete without visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is another excellent spot to find unique décor at all price points.

Whether it’s a hand-painted bowl, a carved Buddha panel, or a woven basket, these items are meaningful keepsakes that remind you of Thailand every time you see them.

Thai Balms and Herbal Rubs

One of the most popular things to buy in Thailand is its herbal balms and rubs. Most travelers are familiar with Tiger Balm, but Thailand also has local versions that are just as effective, sometimes even better.

You’ll spot them in pharmacies, 7-Elevens, and Night Markets, usually in small jars, tins, or roll-on bottles.

These balms are surprisingly versatile. You can rub them on sore muscles, bruises, or even on your chest when you have a cold.

Westerners often compare them to Vicks, but the formulas here are usually more potent and more herbal. Tiger Balm, in particular, is also excellent for mosquito bites, not as a repellent, but for taking away the itch once you’ve been bitten.

There are actually different types of Tiger Balm:

• White Tiger Balm – A cooling balm, great for headaches or nasal congestion.

• Red Tiger Balm – A warming formula, best suited for sore muscles and aches (my go-to version).

• Black and Blue Tiger Balms – Harder to find, but often used for bruises and more substantial pain relief.

Tiger Balm, as a brand, originates from Singapore, but it’s hugely popular in Thailand, especially since some of its products are still manufactured there. In a way, it feels “Thai,” and you’ll find it in just about every pharmacy.

That said, many locals will tell you their version is Golden Cup Balm, a Thai-made balm that’s just as iconic. It has a slightly different scent but works wonders for everyday aches, pains, and bites.

Whether you grab Tiger Balm, Golden Cup, or one of the countless smaller Thai brands, these little jars are inexpensive, easy to pack, and genuinely helpful. They make for great souvenirs that people will actually appreciate.

Oil Paper Umbrellas

Few things scream “Thailand” like the colorful, hand-painted oil paper umbrellas you’ll find in Chiang Mai.

These aren’t just souvenirs; they’re a piece of living tradition. The most famous spot to purchase them is the Bo Sang Umbrella Village, located just outside Chiang Mai, where artisans have been crafting them for centuries.

Each umbrella is made from bamboo and Saa paper (mulberry bark paper), then hand-painted with vibrant designs like flowers, birds, or even elephants. They come in all sizes, from tiny decorative ones perfect for a bookshelf to large statement pieces that make unique home décor.

They’re lightweight, affordable, and something you truly can’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for a cultural souvenir with a story behind it, these umbrellas are a standout choice.

Coconut & Lemongrass Products

Thailand is famous for its coconuts and lemongrass, and you’ll find an endless variety of products made from them.

From soaps and essential oils to scrubs and lotions, these natural items are a favorite among travelers because they’re practical, fragrant, and pack easily in your suitcase.

Coconut oil, in particular, is a staple in Thai households and can be used for cooking, skincare, and even hair treatments.

Lemongrass, with its fresh, citrusy scent, is often used to make soaps, massage oils, and herbal teas. Together, they’re basically the spa experience of Thailand bottled up for you to take home.

You’ll find these products everywhere, from local Night Markets to high-end spas, and they make fantastic gifts because they’re small, light, and universally appealing. Plus, they’ll remind you of Thailand every time you use them.

Comfy Cotton Clothing

This is one of the things I’ve noticed many tourists forget to buy when they’re in Thailand. The country is full of lightweight, breathable cotton clothing, and unlike the fast-fashion retailers we’re used to, the cotton here is 100% natural and perfect for the tropical climate.

Sure, the classic elephant pants are everywhere, and I completely understand if you want to pick up a pair; they’ve become a bit of a rite of passage for travelers.

But don’t stop there. Thailand offers a diverse range of cotton clothing, from flowy pants and embroidered tops to stylish pajama sets and trendy market finds.

Personally, I’ve purchased quite a few pieces at local morning markets in both Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and I was surprised at how fashionable and well-made some of the clothes were.

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, I couldn’t recommend Jing Jai Day Market enough. Many local designers are selling comfortable and trendy cotton clothing.

They’re practical souvenirs that won’t just sit on a shelf; you’ll actually wear them long after your trip. If you’re looking for something comfortable, stylish, and uniquely tied to Thailand, cotton clothing should be on your shopping list.

Thai Snacks & Instant Tea Mixes

Thailand’s food scene is world-famous, so it’s no surprise that snacks and drink mixes make some of the best souvenirs to bring home.

You’ll see endless varieties at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, local supermarkets, and even market stalls. By the way, those purple truffle peanuts are to die for, my favourite!

From crispy seaweed sheets and unique potato chip flavors to instant Thai iced tea, fruit candies and coffee mixes, there’s something for everyone.

These instant drink packs capture that sweet, creamy flavor you’ve probably fallen in love with on your trip. Add hot water and pour over ice.

Personally, my mom is always asking me to bring back dried mango. The dried fruits in Thailand are on another level, full of flavor and a little addictive. And honestly, the 7-Eleven snacks are worth stocking up on as well. You don’t want to go home empty-handed!

Small, affordable, and easy to pack, Thai snacks are the perfect way to bring a little taste of the country home.

Hill Tribe Handicrafts

Thailand’s northern regions, especially around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, are home to diverse hill tribe communities, each with its own distinct traditions. Their handicrafts make meaningful souvenirs because every piece tells a story.

You’ll find handwoven fabrics, embroidered bags, colorful scarves, and small accessories, including coin purses and jewelry. The designs are often bold and vibrant, with patterns that reflect centuries-old heritage.

Buying these items isn’t just about picking up a souvenir; it’s also about supporting local communities and helping preserve traditional crafts.

Many of the markets in Chiang Mai’s Old Town or along the Sunday Walking Street are great places to find authentic hill tribe work. The Sunday Walking Street is a must-visit during your Chiang Mai itinerary.

Buddha Statues

Walk through any market in Thailand, and you’ll notice Buddha statues everywhere, from small pocket-sized charms to prominent, ornate figures. They’re one of the most common souvenirs tourists think about bringing home.

That said, here’s something important: buying and exporting Buddha statues can be a bit tricky. In Thailand, there are laws restricting the removal of specific Buddha images, especially larger ones, because they’re considered sacred.

Small statues and amulets explicitly made for tourists are fine, but it’s worth double-checking if you’re buying anything bigger.

If you do want a Buddha keepsake, stick to the smaller, decorative versions you’ll find in Night Markets, floating markets, and craft shops. These are made for travelers and won’t cause any issues at customs.

Beyond being a beautiful souvenir, a Buddha statue is also a meaningful one, a symbol of peace, mindfulness, and a reminder of your time exploring Thailand’s temples.

Elephant-Themed Souvenirs

Elephants are one of the most iconic symbols of Thailand, so it’s no surprise you’ll find them everywhere in the form of souvenirs. From carved wooden figurines and keychains to clothing, pillow covers, and jewelry, there’s no shortage of elephant-themed gifts.

And of course, we can’t skip the infamous Thai elephant pants. There’s a running joke that you can spot someone fresh from Thailand by their airport outfit.

I’ve seen whole groups in matching pants on layovers, cliché, overdone, but still part of the charm. For the record, I’ve never owned a pair, although I may buy some one day just for fun.

That said, elephant souvenirs extend far beyond the typical tourist trinkets. Markets in Chiang Mai and Bangkok are filled with beautiful, handmade elephant carvings, embroidered textiles, and décor that make thoughtful gifts.

The trick is to skip the mass-produced plastic trinkets and instead look for items crafted by local artisans.

Whether it’s a hand-carved figurine or a pillow cover with intricate embroidery, elephant souvenirs are a timeless choice and one of the easiest ways to bring a piece of Thai culture back with you.

Thai Coffee

Thai coffee doesn’t get talked about nearly as much as it should, but it’s seriously underrated. Northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, produces some fantastic beans grown in the cooler mountain regions.

One of the best things to do in Chiang Mai is walk around Chiang Mai, and you’ll quickly notice just how many coffee shops there are, and these aren’t your average cafés. The baristas take their craft seriously, with a real emphasis on quality and detail.

Bangkok has its fair share of trendy coffee spots, too, but it’s the north that really makes Thailand stand out as a coffee destination.

Bringing home a bag of locally roasted beans (or even some Thai iced coffee mixes) is a souvenir that will actually get used, and probably enjoyed more than you expect.

Traditional Thai Artwork & Paintings

Art is everywhere in Thailand, from the ornate temple murals to the hand-painted canvases sold at local markets.

Traditional Thai paintings often feature Buddhist imagery, elephants, or scenes from daily life, making them striking and meaningful souvenirs.

Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar and Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market are great places to browse affordable artwork. At the same time, galleries in Bangkok or Chiang Rai offer more high-end pieces if you’re after something truly special.

Whether you pick up a small watercolor or a bold canvas, Thai artwork brings a little piece of the country’s culture and beauty back home with you.

Khon Theater Masks

For something truly unique, Khon theater masks are a cultural souvenir you won’t see in every shop. These masks are inspired by traditional Thai dance-drama performances, which depict stories from the Ramakien (Thailand’s national epic).

They’re colorful, intricate, and often hand-painted by artisans who have been keeping this craft alive for generations. You’ll usually find them in specialty shops or cultural centers in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Khon masks aren’t something you’d casually wear; they’re more of a decorative keepsake for your home.

Whether you hang one on the wall or display it on a shelf, it’s a striking reminder of Thailand’s artistry and storytelling traditions.

Fun Toys and Games from Thai Markets

Not every souvenir from Thailand has to be cultural or handmade; sometimes, it’s just about fun. Wander through Bangkok’s markets and you’ll see stalls packed with quirky toys and games.

You’ll find the bigger selection at less touristy night markets compared to others, with vendors selling knock-off LEGO-style sets, action figurines, puzzles, and even small board games.

These stalls are amusing if you’re traveling with kids (or just want something lighthearted to bring back). They’re inexpensive, easy to pack, and a playful reminder of the energy you’ll find at Thailand’s bustling markets.

Jewelry from Thailand

Thai jewelry is wonderfully diverse, and once you start browsing, you’ll notice the little details that make it stand out.

Gold is the most famous, and one thing that sets Thai-made pieces apart is the clasp or locket at the end of necklaces, a distinct Thai style that makes them instantly recognizable.

Almost all Thai gold is 23K, giving it a deep, vibrant color that stands out compared to the 18K jewelry more common in the West. Bangkok’s Chinatown (Yaowarat Road) is the hub for gold, with shops lined wall-to-wall, where prices are set by weight and pieces range from simple bangles to intricate necklaces.

But it’s not just gold. Thailand is also known for silver jewelry, gemstone settings, and handcrafted beadwork, often sold in Chiang Mai’s markets and boutique shops.

These pieces feel more artisanal, with cultural designs and a touch of local craftsmanship that make them just as meaningful to bring home.

Whether you’re after timeless gold or something more eclectic like silver and gems, Thai jewelry is one of the most unique and lasting things to buy from Thailand.

Where to Buy Souvenirs in Thailand

Knowing what to buy is one thing, but knowing where to shop makes the experience even better. Thailand offers a mix of lively markets, sleek malls, and hidden local gems, each with its own shopping vibe.

And while you’ll find great options everywhere, if you’re after the best selection of local goods, nowhere really beats Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

• Night Markets: A must for any traveler is the Night Markets in Thailand, of course. These are where you’ll find everything from handicrafts and clothes to snacks and souvenirs. They’re lively, colorful, and the ultimate spot for affordable, unique finds.

• Shopping Malls (Large & Small): Big malls like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld in Bangkok carry high-end brands and luxury items, while smaller malls and boutique shops often stock local goods, fashion, and creative accessories you won’t find in bigger chains.

• Local Morning Markets: Especially popular in cities like Chiang Mai, these markets have a more traditional feel, featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts, and authentic local goods. They’re perfect if you want a slower, less touristy shopping experience.

• Daytime Markets: Similar to Night Markets, but with a greater emphasis on shopping than on food. You’ll run into these mostly in Bangkok or Chiang mai, offering plenty of clothes, home décor, and everyday Thai items.

Final Thoughts on What to Buy in Thailand

Shopping in Thailand is more than just picking up souvenirs; it’s a way of experiencing the country’s culture and creativity. From handmade crafts and herbal remedies to timeless Thai silk and gold, the variety is endless.

Personally, I think shopping is best done during the trip. When you first arrive, you’re usually jetlagged and too distracted by the excitement of exploring.

And if you leave it all to the last minute, you’ll probably feel rushed. Midway through your travels is the sweet spot, you’ve had time to see what interests you, and you can shop at a relaxed pace.

As for where to buy, Bangkok is hard to beat. It’s the largest city, with the biggest selection and competitive prices. Chiang Mai comes close, maybe even surpasses it if you’re after more unique, artisan-style goods, especially if you’ve already brushed up on a few practical travel tips for Thailand to help you shop smart.

That said, no matter where you are, you’ll find plenty of opportunities; the best things to buy from Thailand are available just about everywhere.

What stands out most is how practical many of these items are. Whether it’s comfy cotton clothes that actually hold up back home, a jar of Tiger Balm that works on mosquito bites, or Thai coffee that keeps you stocked long after your trip, these aren’t just souvenirs; they’re pieces of daily life in Thailand that you can carry with you.

At the end of the day, it’s not about cramming your suitcase with souvenirs; it’s about finding a few meaningful items that connect you back to the energy, flavor, and spirit of Thailand.