Thailand Travel: Packing Essentials For Your Trip

Thailand is a country with diverse climates, from Bangkok to the Thai islands and the northern jungles. It is a sought-after travel destination for backpackers, with its ancient temples, bustling cities, and stunning beaches. When travelling to Thailand, it is important to pack light and prepare for the hot and humid weather. Here is a list of essentials to take when travelling to Thailand:

- A good travel backpack that is water-resistant and easy to carry around.

- Slip-on shoes such as flip-flops, sandals, or sneakers for convenience when entering homes, shops, and temples.

- A rain jacket or umbrella for the rainy season, which usually falls between May and October.

- Warm layers such as a sweater or sweatshirt for the plane and air-conditioned spaces.

- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

- Bug spray and sunscreen to protect against mosquito bites and the strong sun.

- A lightweight and modest wardrobe, including t-shirts, loose pants or long skirts, and quick-dry towels for visiting temples and religious sites.

- Bathing suits and sarongs for beach towns and swimming holes.

- Hiking shoes or sandals for exploring the jungle and rugged terrain.

- A sturdy daypack to protect valuables from theft.

- Electricity adaptors and converters for charging electronic devices.

- Apps such as Grab, Next Station, and Google Translate for transportation and communication needs.

- Travel essentials such as a camera, a good book, and other personal items.

Clothing and footwear

Thailand is hot, humid, and sunny, so you'll want to pack clothes made from breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, sweat-wicking activewear, or bamboo blends. You'll also want to wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders when visiting temples and other religious sites.

Clothing

• 4-5 t-shirts or tank tops
• 1-2 nicer sleeveless blouses
• 2 long-sleeve t-shirts or blouses
• 1 pair of everyday shorts
• 1 pair of athletic shorts
• 1 pair of breathable long pants
• 1 pair of leggings or jeans
• 1 over-the-knee skirt
• 3 dresses (1 knee-length, 1 black, 1 long)
• Underwear for a week
• 3 pairs of socks
• 3 bras

Footwear

• 1 pair of flip-flops
• 1 pair of sneakers
• 1 pair of sandals
• Good hiking and water shoes
• Thick socks

Other essentials

• A lightweight rain jacket
• A hat
• Insect repellent
• High SPF sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• A reusable water bottle

Toiletries and medication

When packing toiletries and medication for a trip to Thailand, it's important to consider the climate, customs, and activities you plan to do. Here is a detailed list of what to bring:

Toiletries

• A lightweight, hanging toiletry bag to optimise space in your accommodation.
• Shampoo, conditioner, and other hair products.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.
• Lip balm.
• Nail clippers and tweezers.
• Deodorant.
• Skincare products, such as cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• Hand sanitiser.
• Feminine hygiene products.
• Any other personal care items you regularly use.

Medication and First Aid

• Basic first aid kit, including bandages, gauze, and over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
• Any prescription medications you require.
• Motion sickness medication, if needed.
• Anti-diarrhoea medication, such as activated charcoal capsules, as travellers' stomachs can be easily upset by unfamiliar foods and water.
• Electrolyte powder or tablets to prevent dehydration in the hot climate.
• Insect bite relief cream or spray.
• Antihistamines, if you suffer from allergies.
• Any other specific medications recommended by your doctor.

Electronics and entertainment

• Laptop and charger: You'll want to back up your photos and videos, so consider bringing a laptop. It can also be useful for entertainment during your downtime.
• Headphones: Don't forget a good pair of headphones for the flight and any other time you want to listen to music or watch videos without disturbing others.
• Tablet: A tablet is great for in-flight entertainment, especially if you download some movies or shows before your trip.
• Portable battery pack: A portable charger will ensure your devices stay charged on the go, so you don't miss out on any photo opportunities or important calls.
• Cell phone and charger: Make sure your phone is unlocked so that you can purchase a local SIM card when you arrive. This will help you stay connected and avoid roaming charges.
• Camera and camera cables: While your phone may take decent photos, consider bringing a separate camera, especially if you plan on taking a lot of pictures or want higher-quality images.
• GoPro and accessories: A GoPro is perfect for underwater videos and fun beach activities where you might want to avoid bringing a DSLR camera.
• International travel converter: Thailand uses different power outlets, so bring a universal power adapter to protect your electronics.
• Streaming devices: If you plan on streaming movies or shows, consider bringing a streaming stick or similar device.
• E-reader: If you enjoy reading, an e-reader is a great way to access books on the go without adding too much weight to your luggage.
• Travel adapter: Don't forget to pack a travel adapter to ensure you can charge your devices.
• Portable speaker: A portable Bluetooth speaker can enhance your music experience and create a fun atmosphere during your trip.

Travel documents

When travelling to Thailand, you will need to carry a valid passport with at least six months of validity and blank pages for any necessary stamps. It is recommended that you carry a copy of your passport identification page and current Thai visa, if applicable, to help avoid detention by Thai immigration police.

If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa if you are staying in Thailand for fewer than 60 days. However, if you are entering Thailand for a different purpose, you will need to obtain a Thai visa from your local Thai Embassy or Consulate prior to your trip. For stays longer than 30 days, it is recommended that you check with the Royal Thai Embassy about visa requirements.

If you are entering Thailand under the Visa Exemption Program, you will be allowed to stay for 30 days, with certain nationalities having shorter permitted stays. If you are entering Thailand for tourism, you will need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay and proof of accommodation.

If you are unvaccinated, you will need to complete a negative RT-PCR or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) 72 hours before your departure for Thailand.

It is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, accidents, personal damage or loss of possessions, and missed or delayed flights.

Money and valuables

Keep your valuables together

Keep your valuables in one carry-on luggage-sized bag. This way, you can keep a close watch on that specific bag and keep it with you at all times. This means it never goes underneath the bus or in the boot of a taxi—it rides with you.

Don't be flashy

If you’re visiting a particularly poor area, don’t tempt thieves. Keep your watch and jewellery safe out of sight, and your rucksack containing valuables in front of you.

Don't leave things lying around

Don't leave cash, passports and cameras out on your bed. If someone does break in, they’ll have to actively search for something to steal, meaning you remove the opportunist from the equation. If it’s really important to you, assess whether it is safer on your person or inside your room whilst you are out.

Lock it up

If your room has a safe, use it. If there’s no safe, you can consider leaving your valuables with reception. You can also travel with a small but strong chain and padlock and lock drawers or wardrobes with handles. Some rooms have locking brackets fixed to the doors, allowing you to use your own padlock.

Hide it

• Empty shampoo bottles: Use an empty shampoo bottle to store money, keys and anything small enough to roll up and pop inside. Place it in the shower for added realism.
• Hanging towel: Hang a small cloth bag containing your passport and bank cards on a hook and then hang your wet towel over the top.
• Behind and under: Balance your passport behind a picture frame, place your bank card underneath the TV, or stick it under a table or chair with tape.

Assume the worst

Even if someone cleans you out and steals everything useful from your hotel, you should still be able to phone for help and pay for essentials. Keep one bank card with your passport, and a copy of emergency telephone numbers and another bank card in your wallet.

Use a VPN

Use a VPN while travelling in Thailand to keep your digital possessions secure.

Frequently asked questions