I did it only because I came from a totalitarian dictatorship and have settled here permanently. The entry requirements were a headache and I'll never do it again during covid. Only come if you plan to stay long term.
That's the most inefficient use of 600k baht I could think of. Yes it buys convenience and peace of mind, but the savings you gain if you wanna jump through a few more hoops are huge.
On the day you fly in, book a 12-24hr validity 'temp' flight. Onwardflight.com
Only costs about $10
Consider it a small insurance policy, this will cover you if they try to refuse entry. I recently flew in and was required to have a return flight and did exactly this, I wrote down a random flight number near the end of my stay. I was never asked, but certain airports WILL ask and you'll be stuck without it.
I thought I wanted cheap too, i love a bargain. When you realise how miserable it is - you want a big flat screen, luxurious shower, nice view, comfy sofa and a big plush king bed.
It's deffinitely going to be continued. Omicron is here, fear is high and the 'pandemic' is still in full swing. It could be up to 40 years before this flu is finished in the developing nations.