A Little Caution At Bangkok Airport Goes A Long Way

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 17, 2025: As Malaysians, Bangkok is one of our favourite short-getaway destinations — a place of food, colour, and effortless joy. But before you breeze through Suvarnabhumi Airport on your next trip, it’s worth pausing for a small reminder shared recently in my neighbourhood group.

A few travellers from across Asia have recounted unsettling experiences at airport duty-free shops. The stories may vary, but the pattern is familiar: someone pays for chocolates or perfume, the cashier quietly slips an extra item into the bag, and moments later security steps in and accuses the traveller of theft. What follows is frightening — detentions, hefty “fines”, and little support from authorities.

Whether every detail circulating online is fully accurate or not, one thing is certain: tourist scams evolve, and even major airports aren’t immune.

So if you’re heading to Bangkok, or anywhere really, take a moment to protect yourself:

• Watch every item being scanned at the counter.

• Check your receipt before you walk away.

• Keep an eye on how your purchases are packed.

• If you’re given a free gift, ask for it to be listed or acknowledged.

• And above all, don’t rush — airports thrive on our haste.

Travelling is meant to be joyful, not intimidating. A few extra seconds at the duty-free counter might spare you a distressing incident you never saw coming.

Stay safe, travel light, and may your next Bangkok adventure be filled with the kind of memories worth keeping.