How many days in advance should I book my hotel for a 45-day stay in Thailand?

Let's really sort this out so people don't panic

While it's true if you're coming here "free stamp" (60 day visa exempt) thai officers at passport control CAN ask for the "three proofz"

*proof of onward travel within the days you'll stamp in for

*proof of lodging

*proof of funds (which is 20K baht or the equivalent in CASH)

the likelihood of being asked for ANYTHING is slim to none

Unless you're trying to live here on free stamp entries (in which case they'll ask for proof you're going back to your country in 60 days) there is very little chance of being asked anything when you stamp in

Most "real tourists", aren't asked anything when they stamp in.

Coming in free stamp you have a much higher chance of being asked for onward travel by your air carrier rather than by thai officers at passport control

Quick tip for peace of mind:

Print (or have on your phone offline):

The Pattaya hotel e-mail

Return flight ticket (day 45 is safe)

Maybe a quick bank screenshot or just carry 20-25k in cash

You’ve been coming every year and never had trouble → this time will be the same. Immigration knows the regular snowbirds 😄

How many times have you been to Thailand in the last 6 months .

If the answer is none

You may get asked for basic things

- hotel booking

- onward / return flight home

Is return flight necessary or just flight out of Thailand?

You're fine... don't worry.

As you are entering Thailand as Visa Exempt Entry, you will be stamped in for 60 days STAMP AND can get an ADDED 30 days extension at your local Thai Immigration office for 1900 Thai baht.

As your return flight ✈️ is in 45 days...no need to get the 30 day extension.

Your Booking is fine... usually the address of where you will be staying for the first week or so is okay.

Enjoy your holidays in Thailand.