Generally speaking, it is not worth buying any baby products in Thailand – unless you are in need of cheap plastic items, in which case you will be in heaven!
Most western standard baby products (strollers, toys, books etc.), or branded goods are more expensive here as they are imported. However, everyday supplies, such as those mentioned in our baby packing advice, may be cheaper if you would like to stock up. The large Tesco and Big C on the way to the airport have a decent choice of feeding utensils, for example, as well as cheap cotton clothing for infants and toddlers.
For good quality clothing, Vogue Department Store in Krabi Town has the biggest range (though pricey and of limited style) available on the top floor; on the ground floor of the same store – if you have the time and the inclination – you will find a gigantic bargain bin of infant clothing. The huge pile is located near the entrance to Watsons and all sells for 39 baht per item. More than half is tat, so it takes a while to sort through, but you will often find seconds of export clothing by Carter’s, Baby Gap, OshKosh and other brands made in Thailand.
Most clothing shops on the beachfront stock a small selection of mainly Thai style baby outfits and souvenir T-shirts; while the Premium Outlet Village, also on the airport road (between Big C and Tesco), has a small section with discounted designer infantwear, feeding supplies and toys.
For a far bigger range of baby clothing and products, including popular wooden toys by internationally known Thai companies such as Plan Toys and Wonderworld, visit Central Festival Department Store in Phuket, or Central Plaza in Surat Thani, both of which are around 2 hours’ drive away – or stock up in the same big department stores in Bangkok. Prices will be high, but could still work out cheaper than home, depending on where you live.