Thailand Packing List
What to pack for Thailand. Beach essentials, temple-appropriate clothing, and tropical travel tips.
Thailand offers everything from bustling Bangkok streets to serene temples and tropical islands. The key to packing for Thailand is balancing hot weather comfort with cultural respect. This guide covers Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the beautiful Thai islands.
🌡️ Climate & Weather
Thailand is tropical and warm year-round. The hot season (March-May) can exceed 40°C. Monsoon season (June-October) brings heavy rain. Cool season (November-February) is most pleasant with temperatures around 25-30°C.
What to Pack for Thailand
👕 Lightweight Clothing
- Breathable cotton/linen shirts
- Light pants (for temples)
- Shorts for beaches
- Sundresses
- Swimsuits (2-3)
- Sarong (versatile coverup)
- Light cardigan (for AC)
- Comfortable sandals
- Water shoes for islands
🛕 Temple-Appropriate Wear
- Clothes covering shoulders and knees
- Long pants or maxi skirt
- Scarf to cover shoulders
- Shoes easy to remove
- Modest swimwear coverup
🏝️ Beach & Island Gear
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Snorkel gear (or rent locally)
- Waterproof phone case
- Dry bag for boat trips
- Beach towel
- Insect repellent
- After-sun lotion
💊 Health & Safety
- Mosquito repellent (DEET or natural)
- Anti-diarrhea medication
- Electrolyte packets
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Hand sanitizer
- Basic first aid kit
- Motion sickness pills (for boats)
📱 Tech & Documents
- Universal power adapter (Type A/B/C)
- Waterproof camera or GoPro
- Portable charger
- Local SIM card
- Passport copies
- Travel insurance
- Thai baht cash
🧴 Toiletries
- Biodegradable toiletries
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Facial cleanser
- Moisturizer (lightweight)
- Deodorant
- Feminine products (brands may differ)
Packing by Region
bangkok
Pack smart casual for rooftop bars, comfortable shoes for temples and markets, and a small bag for shopping.
chiang mai
Slightly cooler in the mountains. Bring layers for evening, and modest clothing for many temple visits.
islands
Pack light! Ferries have luggage limits. Bring water shoes, snorkel gear, and quick-dry everything.
🎌 Cultural Tips & Etiquette
- Cover up at temples - Shoulders and knees must be covered; no revealing clothing
- Remove shoes - Always remove shoes before entering temples and homes
- Respect the royal family - Criticism of the monarchy is illegal
- Head is sacred, feet are not - Don't point feet at Buddha images or touch people's heads
- Stay calm - Raising your voice or showing anger is culturally inappropriate
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