Thailand is one of Asia’s most precious gems, blending pristine tropical beaches, opulent palaces, and ancient temples. With such diverse attractions and so many things to do, it’s really important to pack the right things, when preparing for a trip to the lands of the famous Phi Phi Islands, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai. Check out this packing list for Thailand, to make sure you have everything you need for a safe and fun trip.
1. Bug spray and sunscreen
Thailand is a tropical country, with high levels of humidity most of the year, but even so, the weather can depend on the month and part of the country you visit. Northern Thailand has three clearly defined seasons, while the southern part of Thailand has only two seasons, a wet and a dry one. Almost any month you visit, you will most likely need bug spray and sunscreen, so make sure you add them to your packing list, to avoid having to look for places to buy them upon arrival. Another option is to buy a mosquito-repellant bracelet.
Organic bug spray
Price: USD 8.95
Suncreen (by Neutrogena)
Price: USD 7.29
2. Raincoat
When planning a trip to Thailand, it’s best to avoid the monsoon season, from July to October, as this is the period with the most rainfall and flooding in the country. Even outside of the rainy season, there’s always a chance of rain, especially in Bangkok, so make sure to bring a raincoat. The best ones are those with zip slits under the arms, offering some ventilation, and keeping you dry at the same time.
Raincoat for men
Price: USD 10.99
Raincoat for women
Price: USD 10.99
3. Waterproof and slip-on shoes
One of the first and biggest mistakes people traveling to Thailand make is not packing the right shoes. Before choosing the shoes to bring with you to Thailand, you must keep in mind that the chances of rain are high, so waterproof shoes are essential. Another aspect to have in mind is that you’re likely to have to take your shoes off quite often – every time you enter a temple, but also a restaurant, a café, or a shop. So a pair of comfortable, breathable slip-on shoes might be ideal in this case. Stay away from shoes or sandals with lots of laces.
Waterproof slip-on shoes for men
Price: from USD 6.99
Waterproof slip-on flats for women
Price: from USD 30.68
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4. Travel daypack
Traveling with a backpack can be quite convenient, especially if you need to carry a bottle of water, a raincoat, or snacks with you. Some of the features a great backpack for traveling should have are a lightweight design and great storage capacity. If it’s one that folds easily and has several zipped pouches, even better! Another thing to consider if Thailand is your destination is a backpack that is waterproof, as the chances of rain there are pretty high, especially from May to October.
Waterproof daypack
Price: from USD 16.99
Bangkok Tour Guide
Arnon Aramnun
Hello My name is Arnon. I live in Bangkok I love to be guide Traveler and show you where's amazing of Thailand, you will know more about Thailand and get a great memory with new friends. I can guarantee you an outstanding experience with fun activities and knowledge on Thai history. I like to travel very much and i like to find some delicious food to taste, You'll have the chance to enjoy and have fun all day, guaranteed! If you already have any idea of your dream holiday in Thailand, send an enquiry and we will design your perfect tailor made holiday!
Tours by Arnon
Bangkok Tour Guide
Thitikarn Tantiananporn
5. Travel apps for Thailand
Make sure you download several travel apps before you leave for Thailand. They will come in handy once you arrive and head out to explore the city. Google Maps is also an alternative, but some locations are not accurate there. Make sure you check if the travel app has maps that are available offline too, or you need to download them beforehand. These travel apps can be of huge help in choosing where to eat or where to visit. Asian cuisine is very different compared to European or American food, so it might be useful to search for restaurants with great reviews or read a little bit about your options, before making a choice. Make sure to also include some apps that can help you translate what the locals are saying, as many of them don’t understand or speak English. Some of the best travel apps for Thailand are iTranslate, which helps you quickly translate menus, NextStation, which includes Bangkok’s navigation map, and GrabTaxi, a taxi app for Bangkok.
6. First aid kit and medicine
A first aid kit and some medicine are a must-have on any trip, no matter the destination, but there are a few things that you should definitely bring when going to Thailand. Since Asian cuisine is so different from American and European ones, make sure to pack activated charcoal, Imodium, and food poisoning medication. It might be useful to also have some hand sanitizer, bandages, motion sickness medication, mosquito bite relief, insect bite patches, and some electrolyte drink tablets for hydration.
First-aid kit with medical supplies
Price: USD 25.99
7. Power adapter
Most of the outlets in Thailand are the same as those in Canada and the US, but they use a type C outlet, similar to the one found in Europe. It might be better to include a universal power adapter in your bag, just in case you run out of phone or camera battery, or you need to use any other electronics. Southeast Asian countries like Thailand also have frequent power surges, so better pack some extra fuses.
Power adapter (type C)
Price: USD 9.99
8. Swimwear, sarong, and quick-dry towels
With so many stunning beaches and swimming holes, you cannot go to Thailand without taking a swim or enjoying a relaxed day at the beach, so don’t forget to bring your bathing suit. Also include a quick-dry towel, because it’s lightweight and small, and it won’t take too much space in your bags. A sarong is also useful as a cover-up, a pillow, or a towel.
Women's two-piece swimwear
Price: from USD 5.99
Quick-dry towel
Price: from USD 6.99
Sarong
Price: USD 12.39
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Make sure carry at least one pair of long pants and a t-shirt that does not expose your shoulders for visits to religious sites and the Grand Palace. Some places will have clothes that can be borrowed, but in case they don't you will have missed you chance to explore an impressive attraction.
9. Hiking shoes
Thailand has a spectacular landscape, which is perfect for outdoor lovers. The northern and central parts of the country have some of the most amazing hiking trails and lots of rock climbing opportunities. A pair of hiking boots are definitely too bulky and heavy to carry with you, but a pair of hiking sandals or shoes are worth taking to Thailand, especially if you’re into outdoor exploring.
Hiking shoes for men
Price: from USD 45.99
Hiking shoes for women
Price: from USD 37.99
10. Warm-weather clothes
No matter what time of the year you visit Thailand, get ready for warm weather, so keep this in mind while packing. The best clothes you can take on a trip to Thailand include t-shirts, loose pants, skirts, dresses, and a few pairs of shorts. However, it’s a good idea to stay away from very short shorts, spaghetti straps, and tight and short dresses or skirts, as there is a large Muslim population in Thailand and they are quite conservative. But don’t worry, no one’s going to arrest you if you do wear them!
Linen pants for men
Price: from USD 18.99
Women's lightweight skirt
Price: USD 14.69
Thailand - The land of pristine beaches, tropical jungles, and opulent temples
Thailand is one of the top destinations in Asia, with more and more travelers looking to explore its gorgeous beaches, impressive temples, and jungle hiking trails. However, Asian weather, cuisine, and culture are very different, compared to Europe or the US, so make sure you plan everything ahead and pack all the right things.
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