The Songkran festival is returning again alongside the heat of the weather, and equally hot is the "expense" that strikes the wallets of working people.
Especially in 2026, Songkran (April 13-15) falls on Monday to Wednesday, prompting many to plan extra leave for a 9-day long holiday from April 12 to 20.
Thairath Money explores hidden costs and money management strategies to ensure your upcoming trip home or travel does not leave behind a large debt after the festival.
Particularly regarding booking airplane tickets during Songkran, everyone knows "booking early is cheaper," but when exactly is it "most worthwhile"? It’s more than just ticket prices—it's about managing money during an economic crisis.
Thairath Money, referencing data from Google Flights for the Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani route for travel on April 13, 2026, found that
Booking one month ahead (February to early March) averages prices between 1,200 and 1,500 baht, considered the "Golden Hour" with the best prices for budget travelers.
Booking two weeks ahead (mid-March): prices surge to 2,500–3,500 baht, more than 100% higher than one month earlier.
Booking one week ahead (early April): prices jump to 4,200–6,000 baht, rising by 250%–300%, nearly triple.
Delaying booking from one month ahead to just one week ahead leaves a price difference of at least 2,700 baht (from 1,500 to 4,200). If that amount were saved in a digital savings account earning 1.5% annual interest on a principal of 180,000 baht, the yearly interest equals the extra money spent for late booking, which is 2,700 baht (180,000 x 1.5%).
Additionally, airlines use Dynamic Pricing, raising prices when website traffic increases. Therefore, avoid booking on Friday to Sunday nights, when site visits peak.
It is recommended to check prices on Tuesdays or Wednesdays between 3:00 and 4:00 a.m., when the system resets.
Nevertheless, the best time to book is "one month ahead" on a Tuesday or Wednesday between 3:00 and 4:00 a.m.
Remember, booking within the last week before travel can increase prices by 350–500 baht daily compared to one month earlier.
Flexibility comes at a price because promotional tickets are often non-refundable. For example, a 1,500 baht ticket becomes worthless if you cannot travel due to emergencies.
Meanwhile, a 2,500 baht ticket might include conditions allowing date changes or partial refunds.
Thus, if your travel plans are uncertain or urgent work may arise, consider potential unforeseen circumstances before deciding.
Also, consider hidden costs such as transportation to the airport, baggage fees, airport food (which can be 1–2 times more expensive than usual), or time lost due to flight delays.
A good tip is to budget an additional 10–20% over the ticket price to avoid financial strain during travel.
Check if your trip expenses exceed your monthly savings; spending more than your monthly savings risks your financial stability, as festival celebrations should not become a heavy financial burden later.
Read personal finance news and planning tips with Thairath Money to help you "Achieve Good Finances, Good Life."https://www.thairath.co.th/money/personal_finance
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