Thailand is a clearly a very popular tourist destination, attracting many people all throughout the year. With a great infrastructure and an abundance of places to shop, especially in the larger cities, anything that you’ve forgotten will be easy enough to pick up when there. Depending on the time of year, and whether you plan to head north to the mountains or south to the beaches, there are, however, a few things in your Thailand packing list that will come in very handy!
Packing List for a Northern Thailand Trip
If you’re planning to head north, there’s a high chance that you’ll spend some time enjoying the lush landscapes of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son. Jungle trekking is really popular.
As well as your regular clothing, footwear, and toiletries, here are some extra things to pack:
Hiking Boots
A pair of well-worn in, comfortable, and high-quality hiking boots (or shoes) will be invaluable if you’re planning on doing more than just a bit of light trekking. If you only plan to spend half a day or so in the jungle, a good pain of trainers should suffice. For anything more challenging though, sturdy hiking boots will assist greatly on the uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
Mosquito Repellent
Whilst you can purchase mosquito repellent easily in Thailand, if you are susceptible to bites it is worth taking your own strong repellent. Note that products containing DEET are difficult to find in Thailand.
Swimming Gear
A bathing suit may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you’re thinking about Northern Thailand, but there are many gorgeous waterfalls, some of which are suitable for swimming. It would be a pity to get there and have to miss out on a dip in the cooling waters!
Mosquito Net
Depending on your choice of accommodation, a travel mosquito net, especially during the rainy season, really can help you to have a great night’s sleep.
Leech Socks
Mainly applicable for people who want to explore the jungle during the rainy season, leech socks can help protect you from the blood-sucking critters. Make sure you wear long pants and sleeves too.
Southern Thailand Trip
The south of Thailand is mainly known for its glorious beaches and islands. With hotspots like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phi Phi, beach lovers will be in their element! Here are some things not to forget in your packing list:
Swimming Gear
It goes without saying that you will want a couple of bathing suits to hit the beaches whenever you want! Two is enough – one will dry whilst you wear the other. Do note that it can be difficult to buy very small or very large sizes from the many vendors close to the beaches, so don’t bank on being able to pick something up there. A beach towel is also beneficial.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes with high-quality sunglasses – the sun can be intense in Thailand!
Sun Screen
Sun screen can be pretty expensive in Thailand, so it is often better to stock up before you go. Also, higher factors can be hard to find. This is especially important for people with sensitive skin who are prone to burning in the sun.
General Packing List For Thailand
There are some items that are useful no matter where you go in the Land of Smiles 🙂
Sarong
Whether you’re male or female, a beach sarong can really be one of those items that becomes your best friend on your travels! It’s not only great as a wraparound for the beach! Forgotten your towel? Use your sarong! Need a cover-up for visiting a temple? Use your sarong. Something to lie on at the beach? Feeling a bit chilly on the bus? Need something to protect your souvenirs? You guessed it – use your sarong!
Personal Hygiene Goodies
Certain essential hygiene essentials you might not be able to grab so readily in Thailand, especially in rural areas. Throw in your usual contraception (you can never be too sure!), a few spare plasters/band aids, a SheWee, and your menstrual cup (your not using tampons still are you?!)
Umbrella
Although you probably think you would only need an umbrella in the rainy season, and for sure it’s really useful then, an umbrella is also a great way to give yourself some instant shade in the brutal heat of the hot season. A high quality travel pop up a micro-umbrella in your bag and you’re sure not to regret it!
Enjoy your trip to Thailand! Thailand is an incredible destination. A sense of adventure, a friendly nature, and a desire to learn more about the local Thai culture are also highly recommended!
What essentials did I miss off the list?!
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