How to shop smart in Bangkok — what's genuinely cheap, what's not, and when to bargain.
Thai silk (if real), tailoring, street food, manicures/beauty, massage, local fashion, electronics at MBK, fresh fruit and produce.
International brands (same or pricier than home), imported alcohol, cars and motorbikes, medical procedures at private hospitals (still cheaper than US, not cheap by Thai standards).
In markets: start at 50% of asking price, expect to settle at 70–80%; never bargain in malls, restaurants, 7-Eleven; if you've agreed a price, you must buy.
Bespoke suits and dresses in 24–48 hours for fraction of Western prices; Sukhumvit and Silom have many tailors; budget 3,000–8,000 THB for a suit; avoid rush jobs.
Fake goods everywhere — Patpong, Pratunam, Chatuchak; technically illegal to buy or export; customs at home may confiscate; buy with eyes open.
