@Richard *********

During COVID, when they were very strict, I booked a very cheap, cancelable hotel, to cover the entire stay.

@Richard *********

Just 12 years of coming and going to Thailand. Even the extensive COVID procedures, twice. As to the outbound flight, it's Thailand's and many other country's requirements, many say they never worry about it, and never been asked. In a couple of dozen of trips, I've been asked for outbound flights, a couple times, more so by the airline personnel. Bottom line, if you do not like the visa rules of a country, don't go to that country.

@Mark ********

Ok, got it.

@Mark ********

I never do the fake ticket thing, if that's what your referring to. When needed I get the cheapest ticket to Cambodia and Vietnam. And actually go spend a few days, I don't get why people go, and never leave the airport, just turn around and come back. Go explore and enjoy.

@Richard *********

I didn't say Thailand was unique, quite certain it happens elsewhere. USA is way harder, if a tourist is coming from Thailand.

@Mark ********

True. Me I'm not spending thousands of dollars, traveling for 24 Hours. (From USA). To risk being denied entry or a hassle at immigration or denied boarding. If need be I just book a changeable or cancelable ticket, or a cheap ticket to Cambodia. And actually go to Cambodia for a few days.

The reason Thailand does this, Thailand has a long and storied history of people coming and never leaving. Many times these people don't have sufficient finances for long term lodging and subsistence, so they end up working illegally, begging or scamming. So Thailand requires a ticket out of Thailand, proof of lodging, and proof of finances, and for some proof of insurance.

@Mark ********

Just like you have to apply and pay for an extension with Thai. You may need to extend or change travel arrangements. Which is why you book a changeable ticket, or a cheap ticket to Cambodia..

Thailand doesn't require you to book everything rigidly in advance. Just a ticket out of Thailand, within your visa time, in Thailand. Many countries require this. Maybe proof of lodging, if asked, the first hotel booking for a couple of days, has been sufficient.

@Janelle ****

Be prepared to show airline Visa is good 180 days, and extendable for another 180 days. DTV is still new, so maybe some problems.