New alcohol rules in Thailand: when are you allowed to buy alcohol in the bar or in 7-eleven?

Thailand has updated its alcohol sales and consumption rules in late 2025, and the changes affect tourists, long term residents and locals. Many travellers used to be caught off guard by the old afternoon alcohol ban, especially when stopping at a 7 Eleven or supermarket. The new rules simplify daily life and make it easier to plan meals, nightlife and trips while still keeping clear restrictions on where alcohol can be consumed.

Overview of the new alcohol rules in Thailand

Alcohol can now be sold throughout the day at licensed retail shops without the previous 14:00 to 17:00 gap. This makes everyday situations more practical for tourists and residents.

• Retail sales allowed from 11:00 to 24:00 at licensed shops such as convenience stores and supermarkets.
• Hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and other licensed entertainment venues follow the hours on their operating permits.
• If you buy alcohol shortly before a restricted period begins, you may finish what you purchased but cannot buy more during the restricted period.
• The legal drinking age remains 20, and ID checks are common.

In short, buying alcohol during the day is now far easier than before, but location based restrictions remain strict.

Can you buy alcohol at 3pm in 7 Eleven

Yes. Under the updated rules, alcohol can be sold at 7 Eleven, FamilyMart and supermarkets between 11:00 and 24:00 without interruption. This removes the old afternoon ban that many visitors encountered when trying to buy a beer between 14:00 and 17:00.

You can now buy alcohol at any time within that window, as long as the store is officially licensed for alcohol sales.

Where alcohol is still prohibited

The updated hours do not mean alcohol is allowed everywhere. Several locations remain strictly off limits for both buying and drinking.

• No sale or drinking in temples or religious compounds.
• No sale or drinking inside or near schools and educational institutions.
• No alcohol in government offices or similar public service buildings.
• No drinking in public parks, many marked public beaches or other areas where signs prohibit alcohol.
• No sale or drinking at petrol stations or in their attached shops.
• No drinking on public transport or within transport stations, including train stations, bus terminals and most piers.

These rules apply to everyone in Thailand regardless of nationality. If you are unsure, assume that drinking is allowed only in licensed private venues.

Impact on tourists visiting Thailand

For most visitors, the biggest improvement is convenience. You no longer need to plan your day around the previous afternoon sales ban. Whether you want a drink with a late lunch, to buy supplies for a boat trip or to relax in your hotel room, buying alcohol is now straightforward.

• You can buy alcohol at 3pm in 7 Eleven or supermarkets without issue.
• You can drink in restaurants, rooftop bars and hotels during their licensed hours.
• You should avoid open alcohol in public areas like streets, transport hubs and parks.
• Hotels often have more flexible serving hours than shops because they operate under separate licences.

The updated rules make Thailand more predictable for visitors and reduce confusion, especially during multi city trips where enforcement used to vary.

Impact on expats and long term residents

The changes have a noticeable effect on daily routines for expats. Supermarket runs no longer depend on avoiding a three hour sales window, and social plans after work or on weekends are easier to arrange.

The hospitality sector also benefits from clearer rules. Bars and restaurants can manage inventory and staff more efficiently without sudden gaps in legal sales. Expats living in popular districts such as Sukhumvit, Chiang Mai’s Nimman area, Pattaya’s beachfront zones or Phuket’s tourist areas will see smoother operations and more predictable opening hours.

However, strict location rules remain. Public drinking bans are enforced, and carrying open alcohol near schools, temples or official buildings can lead to penalties. Expats should remain aware of how different neighbourhoods apply the rules.

Impact on Thai citizens and local communities

For Thai citizens, the updated rules help support tourism, one of the country’s biggest economic drivers. Restaurants, hotels and nightlife venues benefit from more consistent sales throughout the day.

At the same time, community expectations around respectful behaviour remain strong. While the timing rules have relaxed, the cultural importance of keeping alcohol away from religious sites and public property is unchanged.

Local businesses may also experience more stable demand, particularly in tourist heavy provinces where alcohol restrictions previously created friction with visitors.

Public holidays and special no sale days

The updated rules do not remove special no sale days. On certain Buddhist holidays and on election days, the sale of alcohol remains prohibited nationwide. These days typically include Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha and Asalha Bucha, although exact dates vary each year.

Tourists and expats should still check the calendar before planning events. On these days, bars and restaurants may close or operate without serving alcohol.

Practical questions travellers ask

Can you drink alcohol on the beach

It depends on the beach. Some beaches allow drinking in areas managed by licensed venues such as beach clubs or hotel sections. Many public beaches have clear signage prohibiting alcohol. If you do not see signs, ask staff or local authorities.

Can you walk with a beer on the street

It is not recommended. Public drinking is restricted, especially near public transport areas and official buildings. To avoid fines or warnings, consume alcohol only in licensed venues.

Can you buy alcohol in airports

Yes, international airport shops and lounges operate under separate licences. They may sell and serve alcohol outside standard retail hours.

In short

Thailand’s updated alcohol rules make buying alcohol far more practical. You can buy alcohol at 3pm in 7 Eleven, stock up for an evening at your hotel without rushing and enjoy drinks at most licensed venues throughout the day. The location rules remain strict, so avoid drinking in public spaces and stick to licensed premises.

Public holidays and election days still include nationwide no sale rules, so travellers should check the calendar before planning events.

Will this last forever

The updated framework is currently implemented as a trial period. Authorities will review its impact on tourism, economic activity and public order before deciding whether to keep it permanently. Adjustments are possible based on how the rules perform in practice.

For now, travellers and residents can enjoy more convenient access to alcohol while following clear guidelines on where it can be consumed. It is advisable to check for updates each year, as Thailand regularly revises regulations linked to tourism seasons and public holidays.

More info about when and when not to drink alcohol?

Check our Thairanked Insight: No Alcohol Days in Thailand guide.