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Will I be allowed reentry to Thailand after my visa runs?

Aug 25, 2025
19 hours ago
Hey, everyone! I’m a solo female cyclist from the Philippines who’s currently cycling across Thailand.🚴🏽‍♀️❤️

I’m almost at the end of my visa in Thailand. I got a 60-day visa exemption + 30 day visa extension from the immigration office.

I kinda expected to be done with my route for Thailand, finishing at Ubon Ratchathani to cross into Pakse and do the Boloven Plateau by bicycle, but since I’m cycling during rainy season, the weather’s quite unpredictable and sometimes heavy rainfall and storms take away precious cycling time. ⛈️

I’ve also realized my body’s tired from this nearly 5-month cycling trip and I need to slow down a bit on the bike.

I was thinking of going into Laos for a border run to get another 60-day visa exemption. Ideally, I would like to cross from Nong Khai because of the train services there that can take my bicycle. For other borders, I need to cycle and I have until August 28 to leave Thailand, but I’ve also heard so many notorious things about Nong Khai visa runs. 🚲

This will be my first border bounce. I’m not opposed to staying in Laos for a day or even a week / few weeks then head back to Thailand to complete my ride.

However, I’ve entered Thailand by land twice this year already.

First, during March just before Songkran via Nong Khai land border. Second, during May via Ban Phakkad just before they closed the Cambodian border.

For my first entry, I stayed 60 days in Thailand. My boyfriend came to visit so we traveled together, then I used the remaining 2 weeks to cycle to Cambodia.

I spent 3 weeks cycling in Cambodia before coming back to Thailand again (second land border entry) to recover because I was hit by a drunk driver, so it wasn’t really a border run but a cycling loop. (Thailand - Cambodia - Thailand)

My question is:

1️⃣ Will I be allowed reentry to Thailand given the circumstances and situation?

2️⃣ Will I get a higher chance of getting back to Thailand if I take my bicycle with me and show it to the border / IO? (proof I’m really traveling in Thailand)

Or will it be better to leave the bike with a friend who lives close to the border?

3️⃣ Will I get a better chance of getting back to Thailand if I go with a visa run agency or if I take a flight and come back to the country? This means I have to leave the bike, regardless.

4️⃣ What’s the best course of action? Should I take the chance for the border bounce or just move forward to the next country and abandon the loop?

If it helps, I understand my Philippine passport is weak, I have extensive travel history (7+ years of full-time travel, 35+ countries), so my passport has plenty of proof I’ve traveled to different places.

When the immigration officer asked for my return flight for the visa extension, I told them I was cycling and came to the immigration office with my bicycle. They were very friendly and even went to check out my bike at the parking lot. They thought the trip was actually cool. ☺️ They were even worried I was doing it solo as a woman.

This helped me dodge the return flight requirement, since I wasn’t really planning on staying in Thailand, and since I really came here to cycle. I still had to book a hotel, but that can be done if the officers inquire at the border. Bank statements won’t be an issue, but since I’m traveling by bike and solo, also camping outdoors and in national parks, I prefer not to carry the 20,000 THB they might ask to show at the border.

My experience with Thai immigration, police, and other officials while cycling has been lovely, and all of them have understood what I’m trying to accomplish with the trip. 🙏🏽

It’s my first time doing a “border bounce”, so I would appreciate any guidance towards the less riskiest option. ☺️

Thank you for your help and safe travels! ❤️

[ I originally didn’t want to post a photo of me with the bike due to privacy reasons and not drawing attention.., but apparently some people think this fake?? 🤣 Like seriously??

So yes, here you go, here’s the bike, she’s actually a cute, strong, unassuming little trike, and yes, I’m a real person, an actual tourist cycling in Ayutthaya ]
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A solo female cyclist from the Philippines is nearing the end of her 60-day visa exemption in Thailand. After facing challenges from unpredictable rainy weather and significant fatigue after a lengthy cycling journey, she considers doing a border run to Laos for another 60-day visa exemption. She inquires about the likelihood of successful reentry to Thailand given her history of entries, the necessity of carrying her bicycle during the border crossing, and whether using a visa run agency or taking a flight would be more beneficial. Despite her concerns about border crossings, past experiences with Thai immigration have been positive.
Natalya *******
Unbelievable that this lady bike with cute baskets is suitable for such robust travels ☺️ And no helmet at all.? And no warm clothes ? Wow...
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Natalya ******
I got a helmet though, thank you for the concern! I even had it customized. 😅🐱🧋 She doubled as my helmet during some motorbike loops with my boyfriend when he came to visit. ❤️ As for warm clothes, I have them but not a lot. Just a good rain jacket, warm leggings, and an ultralight fleece. It’s mostly hot these days despite the rain. 🥵 and our route’s not through the high altitude due to the type of bike for this trip. ☺️
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Natalya ******
And that’s the best part of her! 😉 Everyone who looks at us assumes we can’t do long-distance trips. I’ve been told so many times in my life that I can’t do things because of my gender, my race, my passport, but each time, I prove people wrong and take up space. ❤️

Choosing her and cycling with her is a reflection of all these years I’ve lived an adventurous, amazing life. I’m happy and grateful for this choice. 🚲

Best part is, we can actually carry small donations at the back when she isn’t full… like food for the temples, dog shelters, and notebooks for schools… so we’re out here spreading kindness on the road to the same community and country that have shown us kindness. ❤️
Alan *********
Much respect 👍

It must be tough trying to get that bike up hills, your legs must be as strong as an ox. And I hope you have plenty of WD-40 to stop it from falling apart :)

Glad you have been enjoying it here in Thailand.

Whatever option you take I think you will be fine. Just keep safe and hopefully dry.
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Alan ********
She’s not the easiest bike to travel with, but it’s been such an experience doing this trip with her ❤️ and getting to help other people too (I carry small donations at the back when she isn’t full!) while cycling! 🚲

I just bought another can of WD-40 from Mr DIY yesterday 🤣 and she’s due for some huge maintenance in the next few days. Her wheels aren’t the best, I always have to fix and replace her punctured inner tubes, but it’s all good! ☺️

Thank you for the vote of confidence with the border run! ❤️

I think if what you’re truly doing is genuine and honest, and if you’re not abusing the system or using it for personal gain, there shouldn’t be a problem.

Thank you for the well wishes, and yes, let’s hope the incoming storm won’t be too much on the bike! ⛈️ Stay safe as well! ❤️
Hum *****
It's better if you go out of Thailand
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Hum ****
Planning to get out a day before my visa expires, just looking for options to get back in and finish the loop. I’m not opposed to staying in Laos for a while before coming back. ☺️ Plans change, I flow along. 😌
Frank *********
I think she meant to say Cambodia
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Frank ********
Nope, not planning to cross into Cambodia (all land border crossings are shut), and I would like to start cycling the South of Laos after this, since I’ve already done the north… no plans to head into Cambodia for now, focusing on the crossing to Laos. 🇱🇦
Graham ******
Number 3 is your best option
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Graham *****
Thank you for the response! ☺️ I’m trying to get in touch with some visa run agencies to see my options, but apparently, someone here in the group says it’s for “dodgers” trying to stay here longer… I’m worried it will affect future visits in the upcoming years (not in the near future)…
Graham ******
@Krysten ***************
an agency guarantees your re-entry, if they don't take you then that's it, game over
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Graham *****
Oh, I see! So it’s not something just for “dodgers” as a commenter said… it provides safe reentry. Thank you so much for clarifying that! ☺️
Kim *******
I don't think that you will have a problem at all. You haven't been staying in Thailand all that long. You simply want a little more time to finish your cycling journey. I'm a Warmshowers host in Trang, so I fully understand what you are doing. We host around 100 cyclists per year here. Our latest ones were last weekend.
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Kim ******
Thank you so much, it’s such a valuable response coming from the cycling community here. I’m truly grateful! 🥰❤️

And thank you for the kindness you offer to cyclists here as well! I haven’t gotten the chance to head further south into Trang, furthest I’ve done down south is Surat Thani, since I’m not headed to Malaysia for this trip, but I’m sure it’s a lovely route as well!

Stay safe! 🥰🚲
Osian ********
This wreeks of someone living in Thailand and dodging the system 🤣🫣.

Me thinks the lady doth protest too much. All that information, it made an excellent read, but it's like you're trying so hard to prove you are genuine, then with turning up with bike at border for same effect. You have a boyfriend here, but call yourself a solo cyclist, you have good friends living near borders. You've hopped twice and we're only 7months into the year 🤦, YOU DON'T SOUND LIKE A TOURIST, more a system dodger 🤣🤣, but good luck, that's how border agents will view it, to route out the dodgers 🫣
Osian ********
Woah calm down peeps, it was actually light hearted fun, and speaking from a place where the immigration will see it, 2 hops in 6 months, it wreeks of (doesn't mean it is), for every genuine case there are 100 trying to take the piss, si on that note, I feel sorry for OP cos i genuinely think if she leaves, she got little to no chance of re-entry. Yes it may have been a little sarcy, that's my nature, but I don't run away from my opinions or my straight talking tone, I'm far from a keyboard warrior, i display my nane and my face, I don't hide, but you all go for the jugular, cos unlike you touchy people who seem hurt by simple words, I'm not, and insults WOW! But yes if I was a sad little person I guess that would really hurt, but I'm not, so please carry on, I won't dignify those insults with a response, I'm not that low.

Now onto OP, I'm really sorry you took offence to my very blunt response, but I stand by it, your story wreeks of someone defying the system, DOESN'T MEAN YOU ARE, I wish you all the luck, i crossed friendship bridge in Nong Khai every 3month for 7yrs, but way back in 2006-2013, I'm sure times have changed and are now far more scrutinized. Sorry if I offended. The rest of u keyboard warriors get a life 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Joseph ****
@Osian *******
THIS long-winded, mealy-mouthed, excuse-making, trying-to-have-it-both-ways exhibition of dumb-fuckery is a case of "the lady doth protest too much."

What a transparent little wank boi.
Richard ********
@Osian *******
wanker with your 2 door Merc.

Living in Cardiff, you would not know what it's like to be out on the open road just travelling albeit mine is on motor bike. I reckon your missus finger is for you. 😆😆😆😆
Osian ********
@Richard *******
hah, try travelling from Krabi to Udon in 1 day on a poxy ninja 650r, 16hrs in the saddle, clueless my friend, clueless, I've ridden to every corner of Thailand on a bike, you can only dream of my experiences in Thailand. Generally the finger is taken in humour and aimed at the photo taker, but ok, no probs, i loves a bit of bants me 😁
Max *************
@Osian *******
You must be an idiot. 👎
Pe ********
@Osian *******
Oh Osian what a fool you have made yourself look 🤦🏻‍♂️ as for your profile photo, it says a lot without the need for any words...
Pe ********
@Joseph ***
Yep... Right over ... Looking at his follow up replies trying to justify the initial comment 🤦🏻‍♂️...
Joseph ****
@Pe *******
Right?!😅

The boy ain't too bright.
Wannikea *********
@Osian *******
why isn't your girlfriend facing you in your profile picture?
Les ***********
@Osian *******
What rude, contemptous and un called for remarks you have made.

You are down right disgusting.
Jay ************
@Osian *******
, wow, you're a real dickhead. I agree with Aaron, get a life, what a total asshole.
Aaron *******
@Osian *******
get a life bro
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Osian *******
bitch what??? 🤣 It’s fucking hilarious how you think I’m making this all up. Like bro… do you think I have all the time to make up this lore? Like what do I gain from making up a story like this?

I’m literally cycling my way in Isaan right now.

My boyfriend isn’t Thai, he’s French, and he’s also a traveler. It’s easier for us to visit each other in third countries due to the tedious Schengen visa application, which I have to apply from in my home country.

I’m still a solo cyclist. It’s possible to have a long-term relationship while doing solo trips and fulfilling your dreams. That’s called a healthy partnership built on trust, understanding, love, and support. ❤️

If you’re in a relationship and you travel with your partner from time to time, it doesn’t remove the fact that you’re still a solo traveler.

I treasure my friendships all the same.

It’s possible to have truly good friends in a short span of time, if the connection is genuine and if you really build it with trust, and quality time with each other.

Even if I pass only a few days in their town or city (or in the case of Nong Khai, I spent a week or so there to map out this trip and to get ready), I’m proud to say I’m in touch with local friends I’ve made and local friends who continue to morally support me on this trip. I value this so much.

Knowing the warmth of Thai people, it’s easy to find love, care, and understanding from the locals you meet along the way in your trip. I’m not here to use this kindness, but to really create and maintain these connections I’ve made.

As for border agents, I’ve never used one or tried so I have no idea if it’s just for dodgers 🤷🏽‍♀️ That’s why I’m in this group, asking

Me thinks you’re a lonely person on the Internet who doesn’t believe things like this can exist because your worldview is too small, and this attitude and perception of yours is what repels people from you.

I genuinely wish you the best of luck, and advice you to stop generalizing and bringing other people down. ❤️
Joseph ****
@Krysten ***************
Your adventure is terrific and he's just an imbecile who can't even understand the Shakespeare quote he misused. Pedal on! You're inspiring many of us!
Jay ************
@Krysten ***************
, he's a complete asshole, I would just ignore that fuckwad.
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Jay ***********
Next thing I know someone’s gonna tell me I’m AI 🤣
Jay ************
@Krysten ***************
, my wife is a Filipina. I hope you have a safe, fun, trip. We are moving to the Philippines in a few years, to Leyte. But we will spend as much time as we can in Thailand as my wife loves it there. She loves how cheap the mangosteens are, and so do I, haha. Safe travels to you, Krysten. Ignore people like that guy, he's just jealous you are living a great life!
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Jay ***********
That’s lovely to hear! ☺️ I hope you will enjoy living in the Philippines, and I’m happy to hear your wife loves it here in Thailand. Honestly, I can’t blame both of you… I’m also such a huge tropical fruit addict 😅 I usually have rambutans, longans, mangosteens, salaks at the back of the bike… mangoes and bananas as well! 🍌🥭🥥🍍

Enjoy Leyte! It’s one of the few places in the Philippines where you can ethically swim with whale sharks, so definitely look up that opportunity once you both move there. I’ve done my first swim with whale sharks there and second in Koh Tao, Thailand. Such beautiful, majestic creatures. They’re my favorite. 🐋🦈

His comment doesn’t really affect me, but I find it hilarious that people think this story is fake, so I’ve attached some photos 😂

Thank you for having my back and standing up for me though, truly appreciate it! 🌻
Leong ***********
I think it’s risky

O you have maxed out your previous stays, and have applied for extension.

O you have more than 1 consecutive “visa free” trip

O you are doing land crossing

O you are staying in “free” accommodations and don’t have documentation to show you are a bona file tourist.

O Nong Khai is not the friendliest crossing

I actually think your Philippines passport is a plus factor in this case, as it sets you apart from the typical long-stayers.

Sorry, I don’t think anyone can recommend any surefire method to get you across. The visa “rules” are to prevent this profile of travel. If you are already at the border, I would give this a try, and to bring as much documentation (any receipts, websites, articles, references, recommendations, photos) to prove your are not a long term stayer….and money! It really depends on the immigration officer serving you. If stopped, ask to speak to a supervisor, and have them/yourself call your friend. This will cut through any language misunderstandings. If possible, have them waiting on the Thai side of the border
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Leong **********
That’s what I’m worried about.

I never planned the trip to be this long, but cycling is truly slow travel. I’ve never taken busses or trains to complete the loop / route I’ve set, and this is the first time I’ll be putting the bike in a freight carriage.

Cycling is much easier in Thailand as well, compared to neighboring countries (better roads, more campsites, more bike shops, food for fuel everywhere) and honestly, as a solo female traveler, I feel much safer here. ❤️

My trips were not consecutive though, they’re a month apart, and I don’t only stay in “free” accommodations. I’m not strong enough to camp every day, especially in rainy weather. ⛈️ (as much as I’d love to!)

I book a hostel bed or a room from time to time to take rest. I can present receipts at the border. Plus, I can also show national park tickets + tourist attraction tickets that I’ve accumulated for camping and visiting.

I document everything—photos, tickets, receipts—just in case a situation like this arises.

I also have friends living near Nong Khai who are ready to pick me up after reentry and who are willing to help me and wait for me to cross back (translating, vouching for me to the immigration officer). I know it’s not the friendliest crossing, but I also feel safer knowing I’m not alone and I have “family” watching out for me and hoping for the best. ❤️ They’re a bunch of amazing people, and I truly treasure them.

Glad to know the passport won’t be an issue. It’s not the same case for other countries that continue to discriminate Filipinos and stereotype us as all as illegal immigrants. I understand why it happens, and I understand why some Filipinos have to do it, but generalization hurts those who aren’t affected.

Thank you for taking the time to reply! 💖
Leong ***********
@Krysten ***************
, great! You’re already on the way to the best chance of a successful crossing. Good luck and stay safe.
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Leong **********
Thank you so much for the vote of confidence! ☺️ Appreciate all the help! ❤️
Wannikea *********
Can't say I've heard of any horror stories from Nong Khai, it can't hurt to plan to spend a few days in Lao before returning because using back to back Visa exempt with extensions it's probably going to be demanded of you. Personally I'd take my bike, if you are denied at least you'll have your bike and you can also go to the consulate and get a real Visa if they demand that of you. Explain that you've been delayed if need be by weather. I definitely try and have the three proofs 20,000 baht or equivalent in cash, some accommodation booked, and a ticket out within the 60 days you'd be stamped in for. I'm assuming this is your final leg. Congrats on your journey and perseverance and stay safe out there, keep your eye on every vehicle around you. Good luck.
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Wannikea ********
Thank you so much for your response! ☺️ Yes, I’m actually planning to spend a few days or even a week or so in Laos before coming back. Ideally, only a few days, since I would like to attend a meditation retreat, and it’s only scheduled once a month. 🧘🏽‍♀️

I’ve been hearing about some reentry denials at the Nong Khai border when browsing through Reddit mostly. Someone also replied to me that it might be the worst border to cross, but I would really like to cross and reenter there because I have really, really good local friends (they’re like family ❤️) who are living nearby who can pick me up once I’ve reentered and help me sort out potential immigration interrogation. They would really like to see me again before I end the trip. Plus, the train makes it easier to cross for just a border bounce.

Yes, it’s the final leg of my trip, and I won’t be using up all 60 days of visa exemption. I’d even be happy to get just 30 days. The main priority is completing the route I’ve set and attending this retreat to close the chapter of this amazing adventure. ❤️

Thank you again for the kind words! I wish you luck and safety as well! 🥰
Stephen *********
@Krysten ***************
I've done several border runs from Nong Khai and never had a problem, quite the opposite, they are very helpful.

You can cycle across the bridge from Nong Khai in to Laos. Just fill in a couple of forms either side. Go to booth 5D on the Thai side.

Good luck..😀
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Stephen ********
This is so wonderful to hear, and coming from a fellow cyclist as well, same situation too.

Thank you for your time and story, Stephen! I’m glad you had amazing adventures cycling, and I’m glad the immigration officers were very helpful. ☺️

Safe journeys! 🌼
Martin *********
Wow 👌 👏 i admire your attitude and achievement 👏
Krysten ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Martin ********
Thank you so much for the kind words! 🌺❤️ Cycling is such a great way to immerse in Thailand’s nature and experience the authentic culture, so I’m really grateful I’m doing it, despite the challenges! ☺️
Martin *********
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