Travellers warned over new law in Thailand which could see tourists handed big fines

WA holidaymakers heading to Thailand are being warned to watch what the time is when they crack open a drink or risk copping a hefty fine under the country’s latest alcohol crackdown.

From Saturday, tourists can be fined up to 10,000 Thai Baht (TBH) which is about $470 AUD for drinking or buying alcohol during newly-enforced “banned hours”.

Under the national rules, alcohol can’t be sold or consumed between 2pm and 5pm, or from midnight to 11am.

The law — long applied to sellers — will now extend to individuals caught drinking outside those times, whether they’re locals or visiting tourists.

Thai officials say the move is aimed at curbing alcohol-related harm and improving public safety, particularly in popular tourist hotspots such as Phuket, Bangkok, and Koh Samui.

Travellers who ignore the rule could face on-the-spot fines or court penalties, though authorities confirmed licensed hotels, resorts, and restaurants are exempt and can continue serving drinks during legal trading hours.

Envoyage Perth travel expert Jill Wilkinson told PerthNow the new rules were a timely reminder for Australians to stay aware of local laws.

“Australians need to be very aware — if you’re on the beach with a beer in your hand, you could be in a lot of trouble,” Ms Wilkinson said.

“Save the drinking for licensed premises. If you travel to a country, you need to respect their rules and regulations just as we expect tourists to do here.

“The Thai Government hasn’t introduced these laws for no reason — they’re not just aimed at tourists but at protecting locals too. We can’t be hypocritical and say it’s unfair just because it’s a holiday spot.”

The announcement also sparked plenty of discussion online, with many seasoned travellers taking to Facebook page Thailand Travel Advice to share their thoughts.

“Been that way for a while. Restaurants and bar venues can sell all day but can’t get takeaway in them times,” one user wrote.

Another added: “7/11 have had those rules for years.”

Others took a lighter view of the crackdown, saying: “Thailand mate, never enforced lol.”

The new enforcement comes as Thailand continues a 90-day mourning period for Queen Mother Sirikit, during which visitors are being urged to dress modestly and avoid rowdy behaviour.