Traveling to Thailand in the near future and feeling overwhelmed by what to pack? Whether you’re lounging on tropical beaches, exploring bustling city streets, hiking through jungle terrain, or visiting the country’s sacred temples, having a solid Thailand packing list will make your journey stress-free. Thailand’s diverse landscapes and climates, from the tropical southern islands to the cooler mountainous regions up north, mean that packing requires careful thought. From the heat and humidity to the local customs, packing smartly will ensure you’re comfortable and prepared for every part of your trip.
This post is here to guide you through creating the perfect Thailand packing list, no matter if you’re staying for two weeks or several months. From practical clothing suggestions (think swimwear, hiking gear, and temple-appropriate outfits), to essential gadgets, electronics, and toiletries, we’ll make sure you have everything you need. We’ll even dive into organizing tips and choosing the right travel bag, so you can pack light and still be fully prepared for every adventure Thailand has to offer. Let’s show you exactly what to bring on your trip to Thailand!
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Things to know before visiting Thailand
Currency
The currency in Thailand is called Baht, 1 USD = 35 THB. Check XE Currency Converter for updated exchange rates.
Language
Learn a few Thai language basics. Hello – ‘Sawasdee kha’ for women, and ‘Sawasdee khap’ for men. To say ‘Thank you’, women say ‘khop khun kha’, men say ‘khop khun khap’. However, finding English-speaking locals won’t be too challenging. Recently, we have been loving the Ling App to pick up some language basics.
Travel Insurance
Safeguard your backpacking journey through Thailand with comprehensive coverage from Heymondo for trustworthy travel insurance. (Get 5% OFF through our link).
Booking Transport
For onward travel to other places all over Thailand, check out 12go.asia for booking transport.
Internet
Airalo eSIM lets you stay connected as soon as you arrive at your destination, helping you skip the costly data roaming fees. We absolutely recommend it! Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only).
Tours and Experiences
You can book the best & cheapest city tours, day trip excursions, island hopping tours, food tours, and Thai cooking classes via Viator or GetYourGuide.
Booking Accommodations
The best platform to search for a range of lodging options in Thailand is Booking.com, spanning budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
Online Privacy
Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
Things to Consider Before Packing for Thailand
When preparing your Thailand packing list, it’s important to consider a few key factors that will affect what you bring. First, think about the regions you’ll visit, the weather during your stay, and the activities you plan to enjoy. Thailand is a large and diverse country, so packing smartly will help you make the most of your adventure. Below are the main factors to keep in mind when organizing your Thailand packing list.
Weather in Thailand
The weather in Thailand varies significantly by region and season. Generally, the country experiences three main seasons: the hot season, rainy season, and cool season.
To start, the hot season from March to May brings intense heat, especially in central and northern regions. Daytime temperatures often rise above 30°C (86°F), and the high humidity can make it feel even warmer. During this time, be sure to pack lightweight, breathable fabrics that dry quickly.
Next, the rainy season, from May to October, is marked by frequent and heavy downpours, making a raincoat or umbrella essential. Although temperatures cool slightly, they remain warm, and humidity is still high. Therefore, it’s wise to include moisture-wicking clothes in your Thailand packing list.
Finally, the cool season, which runs from November to February, is the most popular time for travel and Thailand’s main tourist season. The temperatures are milder, generally between 20°C and 30°C, with less rain and lower humidity. However, it’s still warm compared to Europe or the U.S., so packing light layers is ideal.
TRAVEL TIP | Avoid Northern Thailand in March due to the burning season, which causes smog and can lead to respiratory issues.
Thailand’s Diverse Destinations & Experiences
Once you’ve settled on the time of year to visit, it’s essential to consider the areas of Thailand you’ll explore and the activities you plan to do. These factors will play a big role in shaping your Thailand packing list.
If you’re planning on visiting Thailand’s national parks, waterfalls, or mountainous areas, especially in the north around Chiang Mai or Pai, it’s important to pack athletic wear and sturdy hiking gear. For evening temperatures that can drop, particularly in mountainous areas during cooler months, bring along warmer layers.
On the other hand, if your trip centers around big cities such as Bangkok, you may want to pack some stylish yet breathable outfits for the city’s upscale restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Don’t forget, Bangkok is also known for its temples and bustling markets, so modest clothing is essential when visiting religious sites.
Lastly, if you’re planning to relax on Thailand’s southern islands or beaches, such as in Krabi or Phuket, be sure to pack plenty of swimsuits, cover-ups, and sun protection.
Thailand’s Customs and Temple Etiquette
Another important consideration for your Thailand packing list is respect for local customs. Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and you will likely visit many temples during your trip. We can highly recommend taking a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya from Bangkok! While tourist areas have a more relaxed dress code, it’s crucial to pack modest clothing for temple visits and when traveling to rural areas. Make sure to pack long-sleeved shirts and pants or skirts that cover your knees.
Additionally, carrying a sarong or shawl with you is a convenient way to quickly cover your shoulders when needed. Many temples also require visitors to remove their shoes, so easy-to-remove sandals will come in handy.
It’s also worth noting that some high-profile tourist spots, like the Grand Palace in Bangkok, have strict clothing rules. Both men and women must wear long pants and cover their arms. Flip-flops are not allowed, so consider packing closed-toe shoes for these sites.
10 Key Points for Your Thailand Packing List
To wrap things up, if you intend to visit multiple areas in Thailand and plan different types of activities, the key to a successful trip is packing light and thinking in layers. Laundry services are widely available, so you can easily have your clothes washed as you go. Here are some essential tips for your Thailand packing list:
- Opt for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics for Thailand’s warm and humid climate.
- Stick to the essentials—packing less makes it easier to move around in the heat.
- Utilize Thailand’s accessible laundry services to avoid overpacking.
- Bring a sarong for temple visits to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
- Stay organized with packing cubes for easier packing and unpacking.
- Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
- Consider a backpack for greater flexibility if you’re moving around the country.
- Leave expensive or unnecessary luxury items behind.
- Lastly, make sure to leave some room for souvenirs and local treasures you’ll want to bring back!
Choosing the Right Travel Bag
When deciding between a suitcase or a backpack for your trip, it all comes down to your personal travel style and what you plan to do in Thailand. Each has its advantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before finalizing your Thailand packing list.
A suitcase can be a great choice if you prefer easy organization. With all the compartments and zippers, it keeps everything in place, plus you won’t have to carry the weight on your back. For those leaning toward a suitcase, we highly recommend a Samsonite hardshell. It’s durable, expandable, and scratch-resistant, with TSA locks for extra security.
However, if you’re planning to explore multiple destinations across Thailand, I’d suggest going for a backpack instead. You’ll likely find yourself navigating busy streets, uneven sidewalks, or even hiking up jungle trails, and backpacks just make life easier in these situations. They’re also more practical for the variety of transportation options in Thailand, from tuk-tuks to ferries. Keeping your luggage light will make these transitions a breeze.
Now, if you can’t decide between a suitcase or a backpack, don’t worry! Convertible backpacks offer the best of both worlds as they switch between backpack and wheeled suitcase modes, which can be perfect for this kind of trip. (Also see: Osprey Women’s Wheeled Travel Pack)
Our Recommended Travel Backpacks
Picking the right backpack can really improve your overall travel experience. Whether you’re trekking through jungles or exploring cities, the gear you pack matters. For me, a well-designed backpack has been a game-changer, making travel smoother and more comfortable. When putting together your Thailand packing list, it’s essential to choose a reliable brand that can go the distance. Personally, I’m a huge fan of Deuter backpacks. They’ve been my go-to for years, and their quality never disappoints. They also offer both women’s and men’s versions, so everyone can find their perfect fit.
Best Women’s Travel Backpacks
Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL – I’m about 5’7″ (175 cm), and this 60L backpack is just the right size for me. Designed specifically for women, it has a custom fit thanks to the adjustable back system. The straps and back panel are super padded, which is great for long trips. It also comes with a handy 10L daypack. What I really like are the two access points—front and top—and the separate bottom compartment for keeping things organized. Plus, it includes a rain cover, perfect for those unexpected showers.
Osprey Fairview 55 – If you’re more into Osprey, the Fairview 55 is a great women’s option. It has an adjustable torso and a detachable daypack that can be worn on the front or attached to the main pack. The front panel opens wide for easy packing, and if you need more space, there’s the Fairview 70. What’s cool is that the back straps can be stowed away for a cleaner look when you don’t need them.
Best Men’s Travel Backpacks
Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 + 10L – Moritz loves this pack. It opens like a suitcase, making packing easy and keeping things organized. It has side pockets, a shoe compartment, and a detachable 10L daypack. The best part is that the harness can be tucked away, giving it a sleeker look for traveling.
Osprey Farpoint 40 – Another fantastic option is the Osprey Farpoint 40. It’s compact and has a large main compartment that opens from the front. While it doesn’t have side pockets like the Deuter, it does come with a cover to store the straps when you’re on the move. If you need more room, the Farpoint 70 has you covered with an extra attached daypack.
Compact Daypacks for Daily Adventures
Along with our main travel backpacks, we each carry a smaller daypack for daily outings. These are perfect for carrying valuables, electronics, or anything we need easy access to while exploring.
For everyday use, I like the Deuter Giga 28L. It’s spacious and has well-designed compartments, making it ideal for packing things like snacks, water, and a camera. When we’re out and about, this bag often becomes our go-to for carrying essentials.
Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack
As an alternative, there is this lightweight, versatile Osprey daypack with a padded laptop sleeve and hydration-compatible design. Its roomy main compartment, plus front and side stretch pockets, make it easy to organize travel essentials, snacks, and water bottles. With a breathable back panel and padded straps, it’s built for all-day comfort on the go.
For something smaller, the Deuter Speed Lite 13L is a solid choice. It’s lightweight, folds down easily, and works well as a hand luggage option. I usually take it on hikes to carry water, snacks, daily essentials, and a sweater. The side pocket fits a water bottle perfectly, and the extra compartment keeps valuables like keys and phones secure.
As an Osprey alternative, this lightweight yet spacious Talon daypack is ideal for everyday exploring and longer outings. It features stretch mesh side pockets for bottles and gear, plus an AirScape™ back panel with a wraparound harness and hipbelt for comfort and stability on the move.
Our Favorite Camera Bag
Our Favorite Camera Bag – WANDRD PRVKE 21L
If you are looking for a backpack specifically for camera gear, the WANDRD PRVKE 21L is fantastic. It comes with a removable camera cube and plenty of hidden pockets for smaller items such as your passport. The side access makes it easy to grab your camera on the go, and the expandable top keeps your gear separate from personal items. Also huge plus is that the material is weather-resistant, ideal for Thailand’s sometimes unpredictable showers!
Organizing & Protecting Items for Thailand
Helpful organizing items that make packing a breeze:
Packing cubes are a lifesaver for keeping everything organized in your backpack. We allocate each packing cube to different clothing categories (tops, bottoms, socks, etc), which makes it easy to find what we need. Pro tip: roll your clothes to save space.
A cross-body bag is great for keeping essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys within easy reach. It’s also perfect for evenings when you don’t want to carry a bulky backpack. (Also See: Crossbody Waist Pack for her)
We love staying organized, and a travel document organizer helps us keep everything—passports, tickets, and currency—in one place. It’s a simple way to streamline check-ins and avoid digging through bags for paperwork.
With so many chargers and cables, this little organizer is a game-changer. It keeps our electronics neat and easily accessible, saving us from the frustration of tangled wires.
A laundry bag is key for separating dirty clothes from the clean ones. Since laundry services in Thailand are so affordable, it’s a simple and smart way to stay organized on the go.
We always carry this extra foldable duffel bag with us, just in case! It has multiple uses, first of all, it gives us peace of mind if we want to buy souvenirs and we wouldn’t have space to pack them to take them back home haha. Secondly, sometimes we just need an extra bag, for us, it also doubles as a beach bag for example.
Gear & gadgets to protect your things:
Luggage locks are essential for keeping your belongings safe, especially when you can’t lock up your backpack in a locker when staying in hostels or for flights. A small but important item on any Thailand packing list.
Planning to hit the water? A dry bag will keep your gear safe from moisture, whether you’re kayaking or just dealing with surprise rain. Ours even comes with a waterproof phone case—a perfect addition for beach trips.
A rain cover for your backpack is a must, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season. It keeps your gear dry and protected.
We always bring a Pacsafe anti-theft bag for added security, especially in hostels. It’s like a portable safe with cut-resistant material. Perfect for keeping valuables like your passport and laptop secure. On the beach, it gives a sense of peace when you go swimming as well.
Carabiners are always handy. We use them to secure bags or clip water bottles and cameras to our backpacks when we need extra hands-free convenience.
Clothes Packing List for Thailand
When packing for Thailand, think about light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool in the tropical heat. Versatile pieces that you can easily mix and match will make a big difference, especially if you’re on the go. Quick-drying clothes are also a bonus, since you’ll likely be dealing with humidity and maybe even a few surprise rain showers. Trust me, avoiding tight or synthetic materials is key, as they tend to feel sticky and uncomfortable.
Comfort should always come first, particularly if you’re backpacking. Leave those delicate fashion items at home, as they’ll probably suffer some wear and tear. Between sunscreen, constant repacking, and the occasional rough laundry service, your clothes can take a beating. But don’t worry, laundry services in Thailand are cheap and easy to find, so you won’t need to pack a huge wardrobe. And yes, you can still look stylish while keeping practicality in mind. Thailand’s warm and humid climate is consistent year-round, so pack accordingly.
Keep in mind, while beachwear might be fine by the coast, many parts of Thailand are more conservative, and modest dress is expected, especially at religious sites. Make sure to have outfits that cover your shoulders and knees for those occasions.
Here’s a simple Thailand packing list, with essentials for both men and women. Of course, you can adjust it based on your personal style and what your trip has in store.
Thailand Packing List for Women
- 3 pairs of shorts: Active shorts, Denim Shorts or Linen shorts
- 1 pair of leggings: For colder hikes or lounging.
- Hippie pants: Buy these in Thailand!
- 1 long skirt
- 3 dresses: Two long ones and one short.
- 4 tank tops or light shirts
- 2 lightweight shirts with sleeves: Cover-up for temples or beach.
- Long sleeve baselayer: Ideal for cold flights, overnight trains, or hikes in mountainous areas.
- 7 pairs of underwear: One week’s worth—laundry is easy to find.
- 1 sports bra, 2 bralettes
- 2-3 bikinis
- Sun hat or cap: A must for hiking and protection from heatstroke.
- Sunglasses
- 2-3 lightweight scarves: Use them for temple visits, sun protection, or as a sarong.
- 5 pairs of socks + 1 trekking pair
- Lightweight sneakers
- Birkenstocks: Great for exploring towns and temples.
- 1 pair of flip flops
- Fleece or hoodie: For chilly mornings in Northern Thailand or train & bus rides (they love putting on the airco on max in transportation).
Everything fits into a Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL backpack. The roll-and-stuff method works wonders!
Optional:
- Lightweight rain jacket: We prefer foldable ponchos but pack a rain jacket if traveling in peak rainy season.
- Hiking shoes: If you’re tackling tougher hikes like Dragon Crest Mountain in Krabi, lightweight, waterproof shoes with good grip, like those from Salomon, are highly recommended.
Thailand Packing List for Men
- 3 pairs of shorts: cotton shorts, linen shorts & athletic shorts make a versatile mix!
- 1 pair of hiking pants: Convertible cargo pants, like the ones from North Face, are a great option.
- 1 pair of long trousers: For temple visits or city exploring (skip the jeans).
- 6 T-shirts: A mix of cotton T-shirts and dri-fit sports T-shirts
- 1 long-sleeve cotton shirt
- 1 casual sleeved shirt
- 1 warm fleece or hoodie
- Lightweight sneakers
- Flip flops
- Birkenstock sandals: Great for full days of exploring& temple visits.
- Cap and sunglasses
- 2 pairs of swimming shorts
- 7 pairs of underwear
- 10 pairs of socks: Bamboo socks are a solid choice, plus 1 trekking pair.
Optional:
- Light rain jacket: We stick with ponchos, but a rain jacket could be useful during heavy downpours.
- Hiking shoes: Moritz prefers his Adidas Gore-Tex lowcuts for hikes in Thailand.
Electronics Packing List for Thailand
When it comes to electronics, packing for a Thailand trip is all about keeping things practical yet effective. We’ve listed some essentials below that will help capture your travel memories and make your journey smoother.
General electronics packing list for Thailand
Besides your phone and charger (which are a given), there are a few other gadgets we always bring along that make our travels much easier.
Portable Charger/Power Bank: A solid power bank is a must, especially for those long bus rides or days spent exploring when power outlets aren’t easily accessible. We’ve had great luck with the Anker charger—it provides nearly five full charges for our phones.
Travel Adapter: In Thailand, you’ll find power sockets of types A, B, C, F, and O, with a standard voltage of 220V. Be sure to check if your devices are compatible with this voltage. If not, or if you’re a frequent traveler, a universal adapter is a smart investment—it’ll save you trouble in many countries down the road!
Kindle or E-Reader: As much as we love real books, lugging them around while backpacking isn’t practical. A Kindle lets you carry an entire library in your pocket. It’s perfect for those long bus or train rides, and the glare-free touchscreen makes it easy to read in bright sunlight. Plus, many are waterproof, which is a bonus for those occasional spills or poolside reads.
Headphones: For us, headphones are a travel necessity, especially for overnight trains or bus journeys. Whether it’s a playlist or podcasts, it helps pass the time. I prefer classic headphones, while Moritz swears by his Anker earbuds.
USB Flash Drive: Though Thailand is fairly tech-savvy, we still bring along an old-school USB drive just in case we need to print tickets or documents. It’s come in handy more than once!
Lightweight Laptop or Tablet (Optional): While we love unplugging when we travel, a small tablet can be useful for handling bookings or emails. If you’re into travel writing or photo editing, a compact laptop might be more your style.
Photography Packing List for Thailand
Even though your phone can capture most of your trip, adding a few gadgets can take your photography to the next level.
Action Cam: If you’re planning on snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking, an action cam like the GoPro Hero is a fantastic addition. It’s perfect for underwater adventures and extreme environments where you wouldn’t want to use your phone (check this underwater case). We love its versatility and compact size—it can handle everything from wide-angle shots to raw format.
Tripod or Selfie Stick: For solo travelers, a selfie stick that doubles as a tripod is a fun and practical tool. We’re fans of the Joby Gorillapods—they’re sturdy, flexible, and can attach to pretty much anything, offering great shots without much hassle.
Camera: While a phone might do the trick for most, if you’re serious about photography, consider an entry-level DSLR or mirrorless camera. We’ve always loved Canon’s entry models, but if you’re looking for something lighter, the Sony Alpha A6100 or Sony α6400 is a great choice for beginners.
SD Cards: Always pack extra SD cards! We prefer not to delete photos on the go, and having ample storage is key. We recommend the SanDisk Extreme Pro SD cards—at least 128 GB to be safe.
Drone (Optional): If you’re into aerial photography, a drone is a fantastic, though not essential, addition. We love our DJI Mini for its compact size and ease of use, though be sure to check local drone regulations before taking flight.
Practical Travel Gadgets & Accessories
Here are a few more travel gadgets that come in handy during any trip:
- Reusable Water Bottle: We always carry a reusable water bottle, and refill at stations whenever possible. If you want to take it a step further, investing in a filtered bottle like a LifeStraw or GRAYL is a smart way to ensure you have safe drinking water no matter where you are.
- Ziplock Bags: These are a traveler’s best friend for storing snacks or preventing leaks.
- Elastic Bands or closable clips
- Duct tape – we have used this multiple times during our travels!
- Microfiber Towel: Compact, lightweight, and quick-drying—perfect for travel.
- Flashlight or head torch: Whether navigating dark alleys or rummaging through your bag in a hostel, a small flashlight or head torch is super useful.
- Swiss Army Knife: Make sure to store it in your checked luggage when flying!
- Sleeping Mask and Earplugs: Absolute essentials if you’re staying in hostels or catching overnight buses. Thin walls and noisy environments are quite common in Thailand!
The Grayl GeoPress is a reliable and efficient water purifier designed for outdoor enthusiasts and international travelers. It quickly transforms unsafe water into clean, drinkable water by removing bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in just seconds. Its easy-to-use press design and durable construction make it perfect for adventures in harsh environments.
Toiletries Packing List for Thailand
Don’t worry too much if you forget a toiletry item or need a replacement—most things are easy to find in Thailand. However, if you have specific preferences, like acne-prone skincare, it’s a good idea to pack those. Some items, like sunscreen, can be pricier or harder to find, especially in the formula you prefer. Also, keep an eye out for creams and skincare products that contain whitening agents, as they’re common in the region. Here’s a breakdown of what we typically pack, separated by men’s, women’s, and shared items.
TIP | We always use travel-size containers for shampoo, body wash, and lotion so we don’t have to lug around full-size bottles.
Products We Share:
- Toiletry Bag: We share one larger toiletry bag, but when I travel alone, I swap it for a smaller one.
- Sunscreen: For the face, I recommend Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Face Lotion. For the body, we use Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Lotion—both are oil-free, water-resistant, and reef-friendly.
- Mosquito Repellent: A must-have in Thailand!
- Wet Wipes: Always keep some in your carry-on; they’re incredibly handy.
- Hand Sanitizer
- Tissues: Many restrooms in Thailand don’t provide toilet paper, so always keep some tissues with you.
- Travel Medical Kit: This is crucial, especially in humid climates where cuts can easily get infected. Our kit includes essentials like bandages, gauze pads, disinfectant, tweezers, scissors, and medications such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, diarrhea pills, and motion sickness tablets.
Toiletries Packing List for Women:
- Refillable Deodorant
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Body Wash
- Body Lotion: If you have dry skin like me, pack a travel-size body lotion since it can be hard to find non-whitening options in Asia. It also doubles as after-sun care. (Get some Aloe Vera cream in Thailand for sunburns!)
- Face Wash & Cream: I love products from The Ordinary and Origins. Make sure to bring your favorites since most facial products in Thailand contain whitening ingredients.
- Razor
- Hairbrush: Tangle Teezer is my go-to + it’s compact for travel!
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Nail Clippers & File
- Feminine Hygiene Products & Tampons: These can be tricky to find, so I always pack my own.
- Basic Makeup: I keep it minimal since the heat can melt makeup right off. Some mascara, an eyebrow pencil, and concealer should do the trick. I swear by the tinted moisturizer with SPF from Origins—it goes on over sunscreen and replaces foundation.
- Chapstick with Sunscreen: Don’t forget to protect your lips!
Toiletries Packing List for Men:
- Refillable Deodorant
- Shampoo
- Body Wash or Soap Bar: Moritz loves this all-around soap bar
- Nail Clippers
- Razor/Shaver
- Hair Comb
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Documents & Finances Checklist
- Passport: The most essential item, of course!
- International Driver’s License: Planning to rent a scooter or motorbike? You’ll need one of these.
- Travel insurance – Prioritize travel insurance for peace of mind, especially if engaging in motorbiking or adventurous activities. Heymondo is a recommended provider; carry a printed copy of your insurance details in case of emergencies.
- Photocopies of Your Passport: Keep these handy in case your passport is lost or stolen.
- Cards (Debit, Credit): Bring multiple cards for flexibility.
- Vaccination Certificate: Depending on where you travel, you might need proof of vaccinations.
- Cash Money: We always carry some euros and dollars. In major cities, you’ll find exchange offices with favorable rates. Plus, it’s handy for exchanging small amounts at airports for taxi or bus fares.
- Printed Copy of Your Booking or Stay: This is especially useful if you don’t have an internet connection upon arrival and need to find your way.
- E-SIM: Avoid connectivity issues by using an e-SIM from Airalo. It gives you instant internet access as soon as you land. You’ll be able to navigate to your hotel or book a Grab Taxi (similar to Uber) right away. Use our promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off your first purchase!
- Copy of Emergency Numbers: Essential for peace of mind when traveling.
Get Connected with an eSIM
Secure reliable internet access for your Thailand trip with Airalo. Airalo eSIM lets you stay connected as soon as you arrive at your destination. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. It’s easy, convenient, and affordable + you don’t have to keep switching SIM cards! Use our promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
Last Piece of Advice for Thailand Packing List
When you’re packing, lay everything out on your bed. Personally, I like to visualize different outfit combinations, trying them on and thinking about where I’ll wear them—whether it’s for hiking, the beach, city tours, or visiting temples. During my first trips to Southeast Asia, I packed a suitcase up to the 20kg limit, only to realize I didn’t wear half of it. With thoughtful planning, you can easily stick to the essentials.
For reference, here’s the approximate total weight of our backpacks:
- Large backpack: 13-15 kg
- Small daypack: 5-7 kg
Consider Picking Up Some Items in Thailand:
- Clothing: Leave space for beautiful pieces you’ll find at night markets for a few euros. You’ll likely fall in love with elephant pants—they’ll become your new favorite travel item.
- Tiger Balm: This is a must-have! It soothes sore muscles and mosquito bites. Thai boxers swear by it, and you will too.
Leave These at Home:
- Jeans: Trust me, it’s way too hot for denim!
- Laundry Line: Laundry services are cheap and widely available.
- Mosquito Net: Most accommodations provide them, and mid-range hotels often have well-secured windows.
- Heeled Shoes: High heels and formal shoes aren’t practical in Thailand’s relaxed atmosphere and uneven terrain.
- Gadgets: While your camera, phone, and e-reader are essential, try not to overpack electronics. Embrace the chance to disconnect and enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty.
- Too Much Makeup: The humidity will make heavy makeup uncomfortable, so stick to your minimalist favorites.
- Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Gear: Unless you prefer your own, dive centers and tours provide all the gear you’ll need. You may want to bring your own mask for hygiene reasons.
- Expensive Jewelry: Keep valuables like wedding rings secure, but leave other pricey items at home.
Thailand Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | For booking bus, minivan, and train rides online, we recommend using the website 12go.Asia. This platform has been our go-to across Asia. If you’re traveling during peak season, book tickets ahead as some routes in Thailand can get booked out quickly.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Thailand is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Thailand on Skyscanner. Benefit from their feature highlighting the cheapest days to fly and the flexibility to search by month or region.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Thailand, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Secure reliable internet access for your Thailand trip with Airalo. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions and cooking classes in Thailand, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
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