There is no reason to change your plans, based on the current situation. There are no restrictions that would affect you leaving Thailand, entering Laos or vice versa. I would say proceed and keep an eye on reputable news sources (not some of the more spurious rumours one sees on FB)
It's up to the airline if you are unable/unwilling to pay up front for a new flight. You you can arrange a new flight yourself at your own expense you can go where you want (within reason - i.e. where you have the right to enter)
Great advice. One of the most misunderstood issues is this: "Once it is determined by the immigration officers that a person will be denied entry it is 100% up to the air carrier that brought them here to dictate where they go back to"
To be clear, Thai Immigration has ABSOLUTELY NO SAY WHATSOEVER where you go. Actually, if you have the funds handy, you buy a ticket to go wherever you want (or, at least, wherever you will reasonably be allowed in).
I realise that people who get detained might not feel confident to argue this with immigration officers, but you should know your rights in that situation.
If you live in Bangkok I would honestly do it at the airport. It's much much easier to check in 30 mins early and do it at the airport than trail out to CW, with the sheer misery that entails...
so yes, come to Thailand visa exempt. That gets you in for 30 days. Then get a single entry tourist visa in Penang or KL, that'll get you back for 60 days
