If inhalant oils or medicated plasters are gifts for health, then Thai Bento (seasoned squid) is the "national" gift that almost everyone who goes to Thailand brings back a ton of. Even though every supermarket in Vietnam sells it, I swear the feeling of eating a pack of Bento bought directly in Thailand is on another level, my friend!
Here are a few reasons why you should reserve a spot in your suitcase to stock up on this as a souvenir:
🔥 The "tongue-tearing" spiciness that's authentically Thai
Different flavor: Bento sold in Vietnam is often adjusted to be less spicy for easier eating, but Thai "domestic" Bento (the kind where the back is all Thai script) has a much fiercer and richer flavor. Especially the red or black packs— one bite and you feel like you're "bursting into flames," but it's insanely addictive, the more you eat, the more you crave it.
Colors: Red (sweet spicy), Green (less spicy, garlicky aroma), Orange (intense spicy). If gifting to friends who like to drink, just go for red or black, it's spot on.
🛒 Stock up at good prices at Big C
To get wholesale prices and the most varieties, just head straight to Big C (like the Big C Place Ratchadaphisek I mentioned in the previous article).
Buy by the string: Instead of buying individually, at Big C they sell by the string or large lots. Much cheaper than convenience stores, and the packaging is compact, easy to tuck into suitcase gaps.
Gift combos: While you're at Big C, don't forget to grab some "brother" items that are just as hot like Big Roll seaweed (roll form) or Big Sheet (large sheets). These are super light, perfect souvenirs for kids or office colleagues—everyone will love them.
Small note: Big C usually doesn't provide bags or boxes, so buy just enough to carry back or get extra bags at Big C.
💳 Super easy payment when "stocking up"
Since you'll probably buy a lot at Big C (watch, your cart will be full), at checkout use Visa/Mastercard or Apple Pay for speed.
Experience: Big C Thailand's cash registers handle international cards smoothly. Just tap your card and done—no need to count loose Baht or worry about not having enough cash if you overstock on snacks.
💡 Small tips for you:
Check packaging: Pick the ones with all Thai script on the packaging for authentic spicy domestic goods.
Vacuum seal: If you buy too much Big Sheet seaweed (this one's bulky due to air inside), ask packing services for help or pack cleverly to avoid crushing.
VAT Refund: If your bill is over 2,000 Baht at Big C, take your passport to the customer service counter for the golden receipt to process tax refund at the airport. Enough to get a few milk teas back!
Thai Bento is a cheap, fun gift that's super easy to share with everyone. Are you ready with your "teary spicy" spirit to try all the colors of Bento?
