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Should DTV content creators declare their video equipment at Thai customs or take the 'nothing to declare' route?

Jul 19, 2025
24 days ago
A brief question for content creators / media editors on DTV who bring their own video equipment for workation (by plane): did you go through the red lane and declare everything, or did you take the regular „nothing to declare” route like every other tourist does?

I know the theory, I’ve read Thai customs and agent’s websites. I know technically one should declare anything worth more than THB 20k, but in practice you don’t see every single foreigner declaring their freaking iPhones…
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion revolves around whether content creators and media editors should declare their video equipment when entering Thailand, particularly when traveling by plane. Participants share varying experiences, suggesting that while it's technically required to declare items worth more than THB 20k, in practice, many travelers do not declare common items like iPhones and personal gear. Some advise using the red lane to declare items if uncertain, while others note that packing style impacts customs checks, with larger equipment possibly drawing more attention.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Vince **********
If it fits then send it. They never stop me with gold and gemstones in my bags.
Anonymous ******************
Depends on how you pack your gear. If it's all in your bags and suitcase, you'll probably be fine. I've never declared my stuff, nor have been asked. Only time I went to declare was when I had my dogs with me, also had all my equipment and they didn't check.

However, if you pack it in big pelican cases, you're a walking dollar sign and almost guaranteed to get called aside.
Greg ********
It is very rare for anyone to get pulled unless it is obvious you are bringing in crazy amounts. I have come through customs at both Bangkok airports well over 100 times over the years. Only 1 tome have my bags ever been x-rayed and that was 2022. I was carrying quite a bit of personal belongings I had left with a friend in Singapore when I left in 2017. Opened 2 cases and all good.
Anonymous ******************
The officers are very nice. Just use the red lane and ask them if you need to declare it.