How to stay safe riding scooters and eating street food in Thailand

Scooters and street food are iconic parts of the Thailand experience, but they carry real risks. With the right precautions and travel insurance, you can enjoy freedom on two wheels and savour local flavours with confidence.

Key takeaways

Why scooters and street food need extra care

• Scooters are a common mode of transport, but accidents among foreign riders are frequent due to unfamiliar driving rules, rain, and traffic.
• Street food is delicious and cultural, but food hygiene varies and travellers are especially vulnerable to foodborne illness.
• Standard travel insurance may exclude injuries from scooter accidents or food-related claims, so checking coverage is vital.

Scooter do's - ride smarter, safer

• Wear a certified helmet - it's now legally required in Thailand (as of June 2025).
• Hold a valid licence - ideally an international permit valid for motorcycles.
• Confirm your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents (with helmet and licence).
• Rent from reputable providers and document the bike's condition.
• Drive defensively - expect unpredictable traffic, stray animals, and slippery roads in rain.

Scooter don'ts - risks to avoid

• Don't drink and drive - many accidents involve alcohol.
• Don't ride without proper insurance - hospital costs abroad can be astronomical.
• Don't assume local rules match your home country - Thailand drives on the left, signals can be ignored, and road norms differ.
• Don't ride in bad weather - when it rains, roads become treacherous fast.

Street food do's - eat with confidence

• Choose busy stalls - high turnover suggests fresh ingredients.
• Watch chefs cook food in front of you - piping hot meals help kill bacteria.
• Stick to bottled water or filtered drinks.
• Carry hand sanitiser - essential in dusty marketplaces.
• Try local favourites, but start mild if your stomach isn't used to spice.

Street food don'ts - what to avoid

• Don't eat food that's been sitting out.
• Don't eat unwashed or pre-cut fruit unless it's peeled by you.
• Don't dive into super spicy dishes if your stomach isn't ready.
• Don't forget to ensure your travel insurance covers treatment for foodborne illnesses.

How travel insurance protects you in Thailand

When things go sideways, your travel insurance acts as a lifeline:

• Medical cover for injuries from scooter falls or food-related illness.
• Repatriation or emergency evacuation if local care isn't adequate.
• Personal liability cover if you accidentally injure someone while riding.
• 24/7 global assistance to guide you during hospital visits or emergencies.
• Trip disruption support if illness or injury forces you to change plans.

Without this, even minor mishaps can become huge financial burdens.