If I was a betting woman, I’d put my money on the fact that you’re planning a trip, looking for some awesome Thailand travel tips, and have no clue what to pack for Thailand.
Am I right?
Did I miraculously use my non-existent psychic powers to guess correctly?
If I did then it’s a miracle because intuitive I am not.
But, what I am good at is helping you figure out exactly what to pack for Thailand.
Because let’s be honest:
The insanely hot and humid weather in Thailand is probably profoundly different from anything that you’ve encountered back at home.
So yeah:
There will be no fall, winter, spring, and summer seasons in Thailand.
Nope, not a chance.
Instead, think hot, humid, and wet seasons. Especially if you want to go island hopping and experience all the fun things to do on Phi Phi island.
But don’t panic just yet.
Because waiting for you at the end of this is post is a detailed, Thailand packing list for every season, with a handy explanation of when each season is and what type of weather that you can expect during that time of year – making it now easier than ever to plan your 3 week Thailand itinerary.
Handy no?
And don’t worry, I won’t be making you wear ensembles with white, orthopedic, velcro sneakers, and rhinestone-encrusted fanny packs that scream, “Hi! I’m a tourist! Pillage me!”.
Nope:
Nothing but chic, travel savvy, ultra-fashionable items on this super-fab, Thailand packing list.
So:
Onwards and upwards my friends, to the awesomeness that is this post on what to pack for Thailand!
Because trust me:
While it may not sound like it now, I pinkie promise that it’s gonna be fun.
Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high chance that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
1. TOILETRIES
Not gonna lie:
Discussing toiletries and the finer points of personal hygiene doesn’t exactly make me tingle all over and want to skip around in near euphoric jubilation
But:
I also don’t want flies buzzing all up in my business because I smell like a glorified garbage dump during my very Thai vacay (Something that is all too realistic since everyone begins to smell extra-ripe after spending the day in Thailand’s uber-intense heat).
That’s why:
We definitely need to discuss toiletries, at least a little bit. Just to make sure that you don’t forget something super important like a toothbrush.
But real talk?
Toiletry packing for Thailand is not that difficult since you’ll need basically all of the same essentials that you would anywhere else.
You know:
Must-haves like a hairbrush, hair ties, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, moisturizer, contact lens solution (if you wear contacts), medication, and any makeup or sanitary products that you can dream up.
Oh yeah:
Throw in some bug spray and sunscreen while you’re at it since most of Thailand is one giant, tropical jungle.
Therefore:
Searing UV rays, intense heat, and swarms of mosquitos are all in AMPLE supply. So yeah, you’ll definitely want to pack accordingly.
But:
If you do have a momentary brain fart and forget something incredibly important, no need for a Mount Vesuvius style meltdown.
I mean:
I know it’s shocking, but most parts of Thailand actually have convenience stores and supermarkets and even, CASP, 7-Elevens where you can procure just about any toiletry that you can think of.
That’s why:
There’s really no need to fret on the toiletry front, my travel-loving homie.
Now:
In terms of toiletry bags, I usually just throw all my shi…, I mean stuff, in a ziplock bag and call it a day since I’m the antithesis of a glamazon.
However:
I recently decided to become a bit more organized and bought this wonder of a toiletry bag.
Not only does it come with a durable hanging hook that makes everything SO much easier to find, but it also has a sturdy zipper, a breathable mesh pouch, a strong handle, and is large enough to carry everything I need (let the heavens open up and sing in jubilation).
Added bonus?
This epic toiletry bag of awesome costs just $16; a price tag that is pretty perfect since nobody wants to spend a ton of money on a bag that will only ever see the inside of a bathroom.
***Don’t forget your chapstick since your lips can get wicked dry in Thailand’s intense heat.***
2. INFLATABLE NECK PILLOW
I HATE sleeping on planes since I am basically the worst sleeper ever and never really sleep anywhere other than an uber-plush bed.
Yeah:
I basically sit there, like a totally wide-awake creeper, who loves to watch other people sleep.
Just kidding! I’m really not THAT creepy.
I’m just continually plagued by a perpetual case of insomnia.
That’s why:
By the end of any long-haul flight, I tend to look more like a zombie than I do an actual human being who is about to live it up on vacay.
But:
The one thing that makes the entire ordeal even remotely tolerable is a neck pillow.
And my pillow of choice?
Why, the inflatable daydreamer neck pillow of course.
Because no joke:
Whoever invented this little miracle of a travel accessory is a total genius of the most EPIC proportions.
I mean:
Not only does it give me the neck support that I need to ACTUALLY sleep on a plane, but it’s also easy to pack since it occupies a fraction of the space that a normal neck pillow does.
Amazing right?
Just add this safe spacing gem to your Thailand packing list and say goodbye to overweight, carryon luggage fees for good!
But wait, it gets better!
This perpetual pillow of awesomeness even has a velvety soft exterior and a built-in air pump that makes for easy inflation.
Yup:
This little sleep-inducing wonder will help you get the rest that you so rightly deserve and all while taking up minimal space in your carry on.
PS:
If all else fails and you really can’t get to sleep, just take some Melatonin (a natural, sleep-inducing vitamin) and I promise that you’ll get some of the best rest of your life (Scout’s honor! Because I really was a girl scout!).
3. LIPSTICK-SIZED PORTABLE CHARGER
“I love it when my cell phone dies and I am totally incapable of navigating my way through a foreign country,” said no one ever.
Because yes:
Just like 99.9% of my self-indulgent, cell phone addicted generation, I too would probably fall down a well and get eaten alive by a rabid mongoose if my GPS and phone weren’t fully functional at ALL times.
Therefore:
It is beyond imperative that I keep my phone charged and ready to go at a moment’s notice (I mean, you never know when the internet will reveal an epic, mango sticky rice place that you just HAVE to try. Because yes, my love of mango sticky rice is THAT serious).
Otherwise:
It’s a full scale, def-con five, post-apocalyptic disaster when my cell phone battery begins to hover around 5%.
Houston, we have a problem.
But, not to worry because that’s where this pint-sized portable charger comes in.
Not only can it quickly and easily charge just about any electronic device that you throw its way, but it can also simultaneously recharge multiple devices too!
Pretty sweet right? Plus:
This charger is so small that it can easily fit inside your makeup bag, or wallet if you’re a non-makeup wearing weirdo like me, leaving plenty of space for super important things like that Harry Potter wand that you just HAD to buy at Universal Studios.
I get it. The Muggle struggle is real (If you hate Harry Potter, please feel free to disregard my overwhelmingly intense levels of nerdiness).
4. CAMERA GEAR
So:
Unless you’re some ultra-unique human who doesn’t want photographic evidence of their trip to Thailand (or you’re a Hangover cast member), then you’re probably gonna want to take some super snazzy Facebook selfies while in Bangkok, Phuket, Chaing Mai, etc.
Kidding!
I pray to God that your taking pictures for more than Facebook.
But that’s a rant for another post. Anyway:
If I’m being 100% honest, I’d probably skip the camera altogther and just take pictures with my cell phone if I wasn’t an “influencer” of one sort or another (God, I hate that term. It makes me sound like such a self-righteous cow).
Like back in the good old days, when I wasn’t a blogger and I didn’t feel obligated to document every moment of my life.
No, I swear, I really do love blogging, minus taking photos of myself bit.
But I digress.
What I’m trying to say is that unless you want to paint a mosaic of your trip, you’re probably gonna need a camera, and all its associated gear, to help you remember your time in Thailand.
Unless, of course, it was awful.
In which case, you definitely don’t need that kind of negativity in your life.
But that’s a story for another post. Now back to the camera gear.
Personally:
I’m not a huge fan of selfie sticks (aka Instagram wonder wands) since I feel like a total moron when I use one.
That’s why:
As a die-hard solo traveler, with no Instagram husband to call my own, I suck it up, force my eyelids open before the crack of dawn, and drag my tripod around to help me take pictures as people not-so-silently judge me (And they think I can’t hear their running commentary of my vain attempts to photograph myself. LOL).
Yes:
It really is as un-fun as it sounds, but totally worth it once you get a bunch of wicked awesome photos that really do make all the cool kids on Instagram SUPER jealous.
However:
If you do indeed want to use a selfie stick, that’s totally cool.
No judgment here.
I just don’t like it for me.
However:
Do remember that in most major cities, a selfie stick is probably the single, best indicator that you’re a naive and unsuspecting tourist who is just waiting to be pillaged.
Therefore:
You might want to consider that not-so-tiny fact before using one.
And speaking of tourist (terrible segway I know):
There are a few other photography essentials that you might want to add to your Thailand packing list (In case you were wondering, I love my Sony A6300 Camera and its associated Sony SELP18105G E PZ 18-105mm F4 G OSS lens since both are easy to use and result in great, high-quality photos).
You know:
Things like spare batteries, extra memory cards, any type of lens you may need (I usually pack a zoom and wide-angle lens), a UV filter, and a great camera bag to store all this expensive AF gear. You can also check out this awesome list of small photo accessories for travel photography.
Now personally:
My new favorite camera bag just happens to be the Evecase Urban Life DSLR Shoulder Bag/Case.
Why you may rightly wonder? Well:
Not only is this camera bag stylish in that vintage, Indiana Jones kind of way, but its also made of water-resistant, ultra-durable material, can hold a wide variety of different camera brands (Like Sony, Canon, Nikon, Olympus, etc.), has a cart sleeve in the back that attaches your camera bag to the handle of your rolling luggage, has yet ANOTHER sleeve where you can store a 10 inch tablet, and even has a padded interior, with removable foam inserts; an aspect of the bag’s design that creates a customizable fit that will help protect all of your most coveted, camera-related belongings.
But the best part of all?
The price tag! No, I’m totally being for real right now. Because you get ALL of this.. for just $33.99.
Crazy right?
Now if only my camera was that inexpensive! Sigh…
PSST:
Don’t forget to pack extra Ziploc bags to store your wet clothes in or to keep your electronics dry, in case of an impromptu torrential downpour.
5. COLLAPSIBLE WATER BOTTLE
Okay, I’ll admit it:
This is definitely not the sexiest or most fashionable travel accessory on this packing list for Thailand.
But:
It’s still totally essential since you’ve never encountered real thirst until you’ve spent a day amidst the intense heat and humidity that is Thailand.
And:
In case you were thinking about drinking the tap water at your hotel, don’t because you’re definitely not supposed to drink the water in Thailand.
So yeah:
Definitely pack a water bottle for the win!
But really, why wouldn’t you?
I mean, not only do they help you save money on drinks but they also help protect the environment by reducing your overall plastic consumption.
Added bonus?
Ultra left-wing hippies everywhere will begin to praise your name since you’ll no longer be guzzling down filthy, mass-produced, environment destroying diet cokes (all a joke since I LOVE diet coke).
But, on a slightly more serious note, why THIS water bottle?
Well, it’s a nifty, collapsible water bottle that will take up virtually no room in your bag when you’re not using it.
So:
No more bulky water bottles that seem to take up endless amounts of space, and for no good reason.
Instead:
Just deflate this water bottle, roll it up, and, BAM, you now have a ton of space for other, infinitely more important things, like snacks.
To deflate this awesome piece of hydration equipment:
Just take the handle strap, pass it under the rolled up water bottle, and then hook the strap to the plastic ring that attaches the strap to the water bottle
And that’s it. Poof, you’re packing for Thailand like a total BOSS.
The only tiny downside is that it doesn’t fit in the side pocket of my backpack.
Which is annoying because:
When it’s full, I kind of have to carry it around everywhere since I’m way too nervous that it will leak all over my electronics if I put it inside my day bag.
But, a small price to pay for pure, unadulterated, space-saving glory.
5. FASHIONABLE BLACK LEGGINGS
Do yourself a favor and skip the jeans when packing for Thailand.
Not only are they entirely too heavy for Thailand’s intensely tropical climate, but they also take up WAY too much space in your day bag.
Instead:
Opt for an easy, breezy, totally chic pair of black leggings.
I mean:
They’re comfortable AF, easy to pack, versatile, cheap, cover the entirety of your legs (so that you can do as much temple hopping in Thailand as you want), and are just an all-around, essential item of clothing, even if you’re not traveling to Thailand.
Because trust me:
If anyone knows a decent pair of leggings, it’s this chick right here.
See:
When I return home from a trip, I turn into a total mutant and wear nothing but black leggings.
Which is totally fine since I work from home and only really interact with squirrels, in a nearby tree, on a daily basis.
But:
In my defense, leggings don’t have to look compeltely lame or like they’re the only pair of pants that you can still fit into.
Just pair them with a nice tank top, scarf, and light pair of boots for a casual look that still makes you appear as though you’ve actually showered sometime in the last century.
Or:
You can really go for the glory and dress your leggings up with a nice sequence dress and a glam pair of ballet flats if you want to wear something extra special for a hot night out on the town.
However:
Not just any pair of leggings will do since not all leggings are created equally.
Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way.
They need to be strong enough not to rip (and my butt is big so strength is key for me), but they also can’t make you look like you just walked out of the spin class from hell.
Haha, me, do a spin class? Now that really is a JOKE!
Anyway, that’s why I love these American Apparel leggings.
They do all this and more.
I mean, they’re uber comfy (even after you wash them), but still come up and over my stomach, preventing me from sporting the ever-awful, muffin top of doom.
Hallelujah! Plus:
They cost a mere $20 and come in a variety of colors, with incredibly exotic names that I won’t even try to pronounce.
So:
Definitely give these leggings a try and let me know what you think.
6. Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Women’s Chevron Quilted 15-Inch Laptop & Tablet Fashion Travel Backpack
Guys:
I’d like you to meet my latest and greatest travel-related obsession.
This black, Kenneth Cole, women’s travel backpack.
And yes:
It’s pretty serious since I have FINALLY found a fashionable, black, travel backpack that is ALSO big enough to hold all of my crap…I mean, er, all of my essential travel-related items.
First of all:
The exterior side pockets are actually big enough to hold my water bottle.
And yes, even when my bag is filled to maximum capacity and carrying my camera, tripod, laptop, wallet, and a few others things I just can’t seem to remember.
Can you say Kenneth Cole for the win?
Because I’m not gonna lie, it really irked me that my last travel day bag just couldn’t hold my water bottle when my bag was totally full.
I also love that this bag has a totally separate, padded, laptop compartment that can hold laptops of up to 15-inches.
Yup:
This little detail makes my life so much easier since I always have somewhere safe to put my laptop when I’m on the road (PS: There’s also a padded tablet pocket in there too).
Added bonus?
This bag is also made of this super stylish, but totally durable, chevron-quilted, polyester twill material that has a tear-resistant interior and these awesome, self-repairing gold-plated coil zippers that legit, seem to last forever.
I mean:
Mine has spent over three months on the road and still looks virtually brand new, minus a stain or two.
Heck:
There are even these awesome, front, exterior pockets that give you easy access to frequently used items, like that ever-important but always elusive, tube of chapstick.
But wait, it gets better!
Because this backpack even comes with these ultra-comfy, padded shoulder straps that make this bag EXTRA easy to carry.
However:
If this bag does happen to get a bit too heavy for you, you can always place the strap on the back of the bag through the handle of your upright rolling bag, for simple, hands-free carrying.
I mean really:
Is there anything that this bag can’t do?
Can it be my ultra-suave match maker too and find me the man of my dreams (I’d actually settle for someone who isn’t a total jerk)?
God, that really would be perfect (insert a HUGE sigh here).
But, all of my Tinder-related, dating woes aside:
The only slight drawback is that this bag costs a whopping, $110.66, a steep price for a distinctly non-fashionista like me.
However:
If I’m totally honest, I’d rather invest in a high-quality, long-lasting bag that I can continually use, rather than purchasing a cheap one that may, whoops, completely disintegrate on me during my trip.
A scenario that is about 10,000 times more un-fun than it sounds.
***If you’re looking for a carry-on bag to add to your packing list for Thailand, my pick is the Hynes Eagle 38L. It has a top handle, a side handle, and even adjustable, air-mesh padded shoulder straps that make it easier to carry since this bag has an enormous, 38 L capacity. Plus, you can easily convert this carry-on into a duffel bag so that you can stow it in either the overhead compartment or under your seat. Plus, it costs just $62.99, comes in a variety of colors, includes a set of three packing cubes, and has compression buckle straps that can adjust to your height. But, if you’re still not convinced, check out this article on the top carry-on bags for women!***
7. Elephant Pants!
Since jeans are rendered totally useless by the intense heat and humidity of Thailand, why not wear a pair of these awesome, elephant pants instead?
I mean:
Not only do they provide ample coverage for Thailand, temple hopping bliss, but they’re also light, baggy, have an insanely comfortable elastic waist band, and look pretty damn chic with the right pair of slip on sneakers
Plus:
These pants come in a variety of different colors, and fashion-forward, Bohemian patterns, that can easily be paired with a solid top, to create a comfortable but uber-stylish outfit that you can wear without feeling uncomfortable or worrying about wrinkles.
All this and no joke, they are just $14.95 a pair!
Heck, they even come with deep AF side pockets that you caeasily store things in while moving around the airport.
The only down side?
I feel like the pockets aren’t super useful and look weird when you try to put things in them.
They are also not great at keeping you warm, and are a bit snug around the butt.
But then again:
My ass does put the ass back in massive, so that could just be me.
Oh, one more thing:
The dye on these pants also tends to run when you wash them, so definitely try to wash them by hand or on their own in the washing machine.
8. ELECTRONICS AND AN INTERNATIONAL ADAPTOR
According to my incredibly helpful Google analytics, most of you out there appear to be American.
And God Bless America. But:
What I really want to say is that if you’re traveling to Thailand then you’re gonna need a dual adapter and current converter since the outlets in Asia are a different shape, and voltage, then American electrical outlets. (Thai appliances run on 220v of electricity while American outlets only run on 110v of electricity.).
And correct if I’m wrong:
But I’m assuming that you’ll probably want to use at least some sort of electronic device while you’re traveling, especially since practically everyone on the planet now owns a cell phone.
Heck:
Even Zach Morris from Saved by the Bell had one way back when and we’ve only gotten even more tech-dependent since the ye olde 1990’s.
Now, just a little FYI:
Most laptops, cellphones, and cameras should be totally fine when you plug them in abraod since they support multiple voltages.
However:
Many hair dryers, curling irons, and hair straighteners won’t be since these items tend not to support multiple voltages and will probably fry like bacon when you try to plug them in.
To be certain though:
Just check the tag on the appliance you want to use and make sure it explicitly states that the device is dual voltage. If it is then you can use it.
And as stated above:
Because we all love our cell phones, maybe even more so than our first born (kidding), you’ll obviously want to bring your smartphone with you to Thailand. DUH.
So:
If you want to use the internet while you’re abroad (To stalk your ex on Facebook and make sure that you did indeed win the breakup. Or is that just me?), you can buy a sim card and just put it in your unlocked phone before you fly to Thailand.
But, that being said, I don’t actually do this.
I use T-Mobile and LOVE them since I get unlimited data internationally for just $50 a month.
Whoop, whoop!
That’s why, I can basically use my phone’s WIFI almost anywhere in the world, at no extra cost to me.
I can also make calls and text, but that service isn’t unlimited.
As a result:
You might want to get a sim card if you make a ton of calls and texts internationally.
Also:
Don’t forget to pack a decent pair of headphones since they are the only socially acceptable way for introverts to ignore people who try and actively converse with them (I may or may not do this. LoL).
Personally:
I love a good pair of noise-canceling headphones since they drown out any ambient noise and let me watch my movie and listen to my music in peace.
The perfect addition to any Thailand packing list for an anti-social hermit me.
However, let’s be real:
Basically any pair of headphones will do. It just depends on your budget.
Oh, and one other thing!
Some other electronic devices that you may want to pack include a tablet with a keyboard, a lightweight laptop, and an e-reader, like a Kindle.
Whatever you do though:
Be sure to choose wisely and resist the temptation to overpack!
9. STYLISH WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN
Trust me:
Slip-on sneakers will be your new best friend in Thailand.
Why?
Well, in Thailand, taking off your shoes is a sign of respect (and hygeine).
As a result:
You’ll definitely be required to take of your shoes before entering most temples, homes, and museums.
So yeah:
You’ll be taking off, and putting your shoes back on again, quite a bit.
Like all day, everyday.
Therefore:
Why not make your life a little bit easier by packing a wicked awesome pair of slip 0n sneakers that are durable, provide good traction, and make you look fly like a G-6?
So:
If you’re looking for all of those things (and more), then these Steve Madden, slip-on sneakers are where it’s at.
See:
Not only are these Steve Madden Women’s Gills Fashion Sneakers WAY nicer than ordinary sneakers but they’re also super comfortable, last virtually forever, and don’t give you horrible blisters like some sneakers out there (Yes my other Steve Maddens, I’m looking at you).
Because in this shoe:
The heel is both rounded and padded, an aspect of the shoe’s design that helps protect the back of your foot against blisters.
That being said:
I’d still wear some no-show socks with your shoes so that both you and your new shoes don’t start to smell uber funky.
Yeah:
Just think of that as your friendly, Girl with the Passport, public service announcement.
10. BIRKENSTOCK WOMEN’S MAYARI OILED LEATHER SANDAL
I feel like I need to write a sonnet to my Birkenstock’s since I have been rocking them since the stone age.
AKA when I was still in high school.
And while the style of Birkenstock’s that I wear has dramatically changed since high school, my undying love for this brand of shoe has not.
Not only do they last forever (I always get tired of my Birks WAY before they wear out):
But the Birkenstock Women’s Mayor style is super comfortable too.
Unlike my older pair of Birkenstocks that gave me zero support, this pair is a bit more supportive with a built-in arch that I adore.
Truly the perfect sandal for walking along the beaches of Phuket.
Plus:
This style is infinitely cuter and more feminine than the traditional Arizona style.
And like all Birks:
They are super well-made and uber comfortable over long periods of time.
The only slight negative?
They do take an eternity and a half to break in but it’s totally worth the wait since these sandals literally mold to your foot.
Also:
When they do get dirty, they’re kind of impossible to clean since they aren’t water-resistant and do get water stains quite easily.
Oh, and if you have narrow feet:
Definitely order a size smaller than normal since these shoes for travel tend to run big.
Other than that though:
Birks are basically the perfect sandal for the hot and humid weather of Thailand.
11. SCARF
Whether you’re feeling a bit chilly in one of Thailand’s many, well air-conditioned museums, or want to cover up because you’re about to head into one of the country’s many exquisite wats (AKA temples), then a scarf is the perfect travel accessory for your trip to Thailand.
No really!
A scarf is a super-easy way to add a bit of color to an outfit, and all without packing a boatload of clothes that you just don’t have space for in your carry on.
Yes, siree:
Scarves really are forever and always the perfect travel accessory.
Plus:
They have the added benefit of protecting my pasty AF skin from the sun’s intense, UV rays.
Because yes travel fans, wrinkle-free really is the way to be!
And unlike hats:
Scarfs don’t blow away in the wind, are easy to carry, and won’t get ruined if they get a bit squashed in your bag.
And this scarf?
Yeah, it’s kind of sort of extra special. LIKE ME!!!
See:
Not only is it incredibly lightweight, and available in basically every color imaginable, but it’s also long enough to be worn as either a scarf, sarong, or headwrap.
Plus, let’s be totally honest here:
How could you ever go wrong when you can get two scarves for just $13?
Exactly!
Glad we can agree on the REALLY important things in life. LOL.
12. Sun Hat
I’m not ashamed to admit that I am totally obsessed with this sunhat.
No really, I’m not kidding.
You’ll see this sunhat in almost every one of my Instagram photos where I myself actually make an appearance.
But:
That’s only because this hat makes me look like the chic and regal lady that I am not, while simultaneously protecting my ultra-white skin from the searing, flesh-wrinkling rays of the sun.
And trust me:
No woman out there EVER wants to look like a shriveled old bag of bones before her time, me included.
That’s why:
When you’re not sure what to wear in Thailand, you can never go wrong with a fantastic sun hat.
I mean:
It’s SPF 50, has a handy windproof strap that keeps it from flying away at the drop of a hat (Get it?), costs just $10, and has a super adorable bowknot in the back.
Plus:
Every time I wear this hat, I always get a ton of compliments as I vainly attempt to protect what’s left of my mildly youthful complexion.
Besides:
Hats really are the easiest way to dress up an outfit, and make all of your Instagram photos look about 10,000 times cuter.
13. SUNGLASSES
Trust me:
When you’re packing for the perfect Liveaboard trip in Thailand, always remember to pack a wicked awesome pair of sunglasses since you only want to be lyrically and not physically “blinded by the light” when basking in the ethereal beauty of Thailand’s many beaches.
Plus:
I don’t know about you but I definitely don’t want to spend $100 on a pair of sunglasses that I’m probably gonna lose or break in about two seconds.
That’s why:
At just $15 a pair, these sunglasses are the perfect, totally economical way for me to look like a self-important, wannabe celebrity.
Kidding!
Just not about the quality of these sunglasses since they look great, are incredibly durable, are lightweight, fit my face well (albeit slightly loose), and come with a multitude of fantastic little extras like a case, a cloth to clean your glasses with, and more.
But you know what I really love?
The fact that this company’s customer service is amazing!
I mean:
When I contacted them about a defective pair of glasses I received, they apologized profusely and immediately gave me my money back, no questions asked.
Yeah:
Talk about being shocked but in the best possible way.
So yes:
I will without a doubt, continue buying these awesome sunglasses for all of my future trips to Thailand.
14. MICROFIBER TOWEL
I’ll admit it:
I don’t usually bring this microfiber towel with me on most of my trips.
But:
When I visit Thailand, I always make sure that this towel is safely tucked away in my carryon.
Why?
Well, not only is this towel enormous, but the microfiber material that it’s made of is some modern technological marvel that practically dries instantly.
Therefore:
You can easily use this towel to dry yourself off and pack it up while it’s still wet, without worrying that a thin, crusty layer of mold will form o the exterior.
Plus:
The accompanying storage bag is the perfect place to pack your towel so that you can save some much-needed space.
So yeah:
Just an all around, perfect travel accesory for anyone who is planning on frollicking through the crystal clear blue water and sandy white beaches of Phuket.
Becauese yes:
Thailand and beaches really do go together like peanut butter and jelly (#FACT!).
15. WOMEN FALBALA BIKINI SET HIGH WAISTED
Given the overall heat and humidity in Thailand:
Chances are that you’ll probably want to take a nice relaxing dip in the pool, or ocean, of your choice at some point during your trip.
But:
I’ll be the first one to admit that bathing suit shopping can be a very un-fun experience, especially if you’re the one who likes to eat ALL the cake at the buffet (Yup, that would this chick right here).
So:
If you’ve ever felt personally victimized by bikini shopping, you are not alone.
Because trust me, I’ve been there.
Regardless of how much I weigh, I always feel so exposed in a bathing suit and like everyone can see every little (and not so little) bit of me.
Which si one of the many reasons why I love this high-waisted bikini.
It’s alluring enough to show some skin, but also high-waisted enough to keep my stomach tucked in and looking totally muffin top free.
I also love how flattering the top is, which gives ample support to my D size girls up top.
Because as all of my curvacious ladies out there know:
There really is nothing worse than feeling like your girls are gonna pop out and say hello at any second.
But thankfully:
That’s not an issue with this bathing suit since the top of this bikini has removable padded cups and an adjustable neck/ back closure that all work together to give you ample support.
And with 17 different styles to choose from:
I’m fairly confident that you’ll be able to find a bathing suit that works for you.
However:
My favorite part has to be the price, since this bathing suit costs just $20!
Crazy right?
And no, I don’t mean $20 for just the top or the bottom.
I mean $20 for the whole bathing suit!
Yup:
The price is total bathing suit blasphemy but I’m just gonna with it and enjoy my very Thai vacay.
16. A NUETRAL CARDIGAN
Truthfully:
I have a slightly unhealthy obsession with this cardigan.
I mean:
I just bought it and already kind of sort of wear it almost everywhere.
But can you blame me?
It costs just $20, is super soft, fits like a dream (I got the medium and it fits really well, especially over my slightly voluptuous bosom), comes in literally every color of the rainbow, and looks so much chicer than a sweatshirt.
Made by Floria:
This cardigan is a 70% Viscose, 30% Nylon, soft knit crewneck Cardigan with buttons (that actually work), a ribbed hem, and full-length sleeves.
Perfect for when you need something light to cover up in before entering a temple or when the AC in a museum feels sub-arctic level freezing.
And while it does shrink a smidge in the dryer:
The shrinkage really isn’t enough to change how the cardigan fits or to make me want to order another size. (oh yeah, the company recommends hand washing it. Whoops, I always miss that memo).
Yup:
One of those epic purchases on Amazon that worked out perfectly.
PS:
I have noticed a thread or two come loose, but whatever. I wear it all the time and they’re easy to snip off since the cardigan definitely isn’t falling apart.
But figured I’d throw that out there as an FYI
17. DREAM PAIRS WOMEN’S WINTER LACE UP MID CALF COMBAT BOOTS
Whether you’re looking to explore the ruins of Ayutthaya or want to embrace your inner billy goat and climb up some of the wicked awesome mountains surrounding Chiang Mai, you’ll definitely need a solid pair of boots on your Thailand packing list.
And while these definitely aren’t hiking boots:
They’ll certainly get the job done if you plan on doing a bit of light trekking or ruin hopping (If you really need legit hiking boots, you can always try these women’s hiking boots from Columbia instead).
Now, truth be told:
I actually think the color pictured above is hideous.
So:
If you do decide to purchase these boots, then I would buy them in a dark brown (a color that also helps camouflage any potential wear and tear).
But besides that:
I really do love these boots, and it’s getting pretty serious.
First of all:
They are REALLY reasonably priced and cost just $34 a pair, which is SUPER cheap for women’s boots.
Plus:
Not only do they look good, but they’re comfortable, easily zip on and off (perfect for airport security), and have a secret pocket, in each boot, where you can hide a bit of extra cash/credit cards.
This way:
You don’t have to let your anxiety get the best of you and freak out about pickpockets.
Mind you:
It’s not a huge secret pocket and is just big enough for a few credit cards and some dollar bills, so don’t get TOO excited.
Also:
The zipper to this secret pocket can get a bit stuck and can be tricky to zip and unzip, at the best of times.
But:
That’s not a huge issue for me and really isn’t a deal-breaker.
However:
The one BIG drawback of these boots is that when I first got mine and wore them for several hours, I ended up getting a blister.
Therefore:
Until you break them in, I would definitely pack some band-aids to protect your feet against potential blisters.
Also:
The interior is not a faux fur but more of a fleece that will help keep your feet dry if you ever get caught in one of Thailand’s infamous, torrential downpours.
So yeah:
Just another one of the many amazing pieces of clothing that you can wear if you’re not sure what to pack for Thailand.
18. Travel Insurance
Without a doubt:
This is probably the single most BORING addition to our Thailand packing list (Yup, even duller than the current convertor and international adaptor section).
But:
A necessary evil none the less.
And yes:
I am about to get all mom on you, so just know that you have been warned.
However:
I will try and keep my pint-sized, travel insurance lecture to a minimum and cruise through this section like a boss.
Okay, let’s get to it:
Now, the simple truth is that you ALWAYS NEED travel insurance for EVERY single trip you take! No matter where you go!
Sure:
It’s tempting to forego insurance when you’re in a major city because you feel like nothing bad could possibly happen.
And while I’ll admit that:
I too have done this, in the naivete of my youth (and no, nothing horrible happened), I sill do NOT recommend doing this.
Why?
Well, in reality, no one ever really expects some horrible medical tragedy to befall them or for someone to steal all their earthly belongings while they’re on vacay.
I mean:
I sure didn’t anticipate my wallet getting stolen in Barcelona or some a-hole scamming me out of thousands of dollars, right before my trip to Norway, forcing me to cancel the trip.
However:
The older you get, the more dumb stuff you do, and eventually, something bad happens because your luck has finally run out.
And I promise:
You definitely don’t want to spend your vacation crying, desperately thinking, “If only I had purchased travel insurance”.
Which is why I always buy World Nomads Travel Insurance!
Okay, they’re a smidge on the expensive side but so what?
Insurance is one of those things that you don’t want to skimp on. You just can’t afford to be cheap when it comes to your health and well-being (trust me, I’ve tried about a billion different companies and they are the best).
But more importantly:
World Nomads travel insurance covers almost any destination that you might EVER want to visit (except SUPER offbeat places like Pakistan), gives you a fantastic level of coverage that includes almost any travel mishap possible (except maybe getting impaled by a rogue unicorn), is easy to customize, and can be extended or altered EVEN while you’re still traveling.
Pretty sweet right?
But, the real question is, “Which policy shoudl you choose?”
Well, I’ll make it super simple for you.
If your gear is worth less than a $1000, get the basic plan.
However:
If your gear is worth more than a $1000, get the explorer plan.
And yes, both plans also include $100,000 worth of emergency medical coverage.
So:
Heed my slightly overdramatic words and go purchase travel insurance before your trip to Thailand, even if it’s not with World Nomads.
Because trust me:
The last thing you want to do is declare bankruptcy because your medical bills are next level expensive.
Okay, this concludes your travel insurance lecture.
Let’s now think happy thoughts about puppies and rainbows and gallons of ice cream that won’t ever make us fat!
HOORAY!
19. Rain Jacket
Look:
Even if you plan to visit Thailand outside of the rainy season, you should definitely consider bringing a raincoat with you as you plan out what to pack for Thailand.
Because trust me:
Between trekking through the mountains with elephants and motorbike rides through the not-so-mean streets of Bangkok, there is always the potential for one giant, torrential downpour.
And I’m talking massive, flash flood type rains that are super intense.
That’s why:
I personally, always pack a raincoat since, unlike umbrellas, they don’t get blown inside out and rendered totally useless by a single, strong, gust of wind.
However:
Raincoats aren’t exactly the best at protecting the contents of your day bag.
Therefore:
I always pack a rainfly for my backpack as well.
Now:
If you do decide to go with a raincoat, then I highly recommend the Cole Haan packable raincoat!
Not only does it neatly and easily fold up into your suitcase, but it also has a super nifty, removable hood (I love this because I think raincoats always look so much sleeker without a hood) and a charming belt, that when sinched, gives you a more customizable, feminine fit.
I also love that the fabric is durable, comfortable, waterproof, and heavy enough to be worn throughout the spring and fall.
Not that being cold is ever really an issue in Thailand, but that’s really beside the point.
But:
Before you go and buy yourself this awesome piece of protective rain gear, please be aware of the fact that this jacket does tend to run a bit small, especially through the back and arms,
Therefore:
I recommend ordering a size or two up from what you normally wear.
Also:
Prior to the start of any trip you take, always check the weather so that you don’t pack a ton of stuff that you really don‘t need.
Because yes:
Overpacking really is the devil, especially with most discount airlines now charging massive excess baggage fees.
The horror (LOL)!
20. Sun Dress (with sleeves so that you can enter all the temples you want)
Dresses are an ABSOLUTE must in Thailand.
I mean, not only do they take up much less room in your luggage than the traditional pants/shirt outfit combo, but they always make you look so well put together (like you actually tried without actually trying), and are super easy and breezy to wear in the wicked awful heat and humidity of Thailand.
Whcih is why:
I love rocking this floral print, short sleeve, tunic top dress (pictured above) during any trip to Thailand.
And:
At just $11 for a WHOLE dress (Lol), this outfit is a total steal.
It’s also a timeless piece that can easily be paired with a cardigan and a pair of leggings if you encounter a rogue, chilly day in Thailand.
Plus:
It’s loose enough to hide any not-so-flattering lumps and bumps, but not so loose that you look like you’re wearing a circus tent.
It’s also true to size and comes in a polka dot design, with sleeveless options available too!
PS:
Don’t forget to pack a pair of Spanx to help you expertly hide any and all bodily imperfections!
Hot Season Thailand Packing List
Generally speaking:
The hot season in Thailand falls between March and June every year, with April and May being the hottest months of the season.
As a result:
Expect daily highs of 38 C (100 F) because when I say hot, I mean, Sahara Desert level hot. Only worse since Thailand always has like 99.9% humidity, which only makes it feel 10,000 times hotter.
Therefore:
Pack accordingly and bring plenty of light fabrics and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Short Sleeve Shirts (2)
- Sleeveless Shirt (1)
- Summer Dresses (2)
- Light, breathable pants (1)
- Legginga (1)
- Light breathable shorts (1)
- Long Skirts (1)
- Sunhat (1)
- Sunglasses (1)
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repelent
- Water Bottle
- Bras (3)
- Underwear (7)
- Socks (7)
- Comfortable Sleep Clothes (1)
- Light Rain Jacket (1)
- Cardigan (1)
- Comfortable Sandals with a back (1)
- Fashionable Slip-on-Sneakers (1)
- Light Scarf (1)
- Sturdy Boots (1)
- Bathing Suit (1)
- Quick Dry Towel (1)
Cool Season Thailand Packing List
Lasting between November and February:
The “cool” season is the best time to visit Thailand since visitors can enjoy nightly lows in the 20’s C (70’s F) and daily highs in the 30’s C (90’s F).
However:
In addition to cooler temperatures, visitors during November will also enjoy the added benefit of fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations since holiday travelers haven’t quite arrived yet.
Something that is totally a win-win in my book and makes this the BEST time to visit Thailand.
But, because the “cool season” still feels hot to most of us, be sure to pack plenty of breathable, light fabrics, and sunscreen since regardless of the season, the sun is always intense.
- Short Sleeve Shirts (2)
- Sleeveless Shirts (1)
- Summer Dresses (2)
- Light, breathable pants (1)
- Legginga (1)
- Light breathable shorts (1)
- Long Skirts (1)
- Sunhat (1)
- Sunglasses (1)
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repelent
- Water Bottle
- Bras (3)
- Underwear (7)
- Socks (7)
- Comfortable Sleep Clothes (1)
- Light Jacket (1)
- Cardigan (1)
- Heavy Sweatshirt or Sweater (1)
- Comfortable Sandals with a back (1)
- Fashionable Slip-on-Sneakers (1)
- Sturdy Boots (1)
- Light Scarf (1)
- Bathing Suit (1)
- Quick Dry Towel (1)
Wet Season Thailand Packing List
Okay:
Before deciding what to pack for Thailand, please be aware of the fact that the start and the end of the wet season can vary from year to year.
Therefore:
It’s always a good idea to pack an umbrella and/or rain jacket, just in case, especially if your Thailand itinerary will take you through several different regions in the country.
But, in general:
Along the Andaman Sea (Think places like Phuket, Krabi, and Khao Lak) the wet season can start as early as April or May (although it only officially begins in June) and last until October.
Along the Gulf Coast though (Think places like Samui, Phangan, and Tao):
The wet season can start as early as October (although it only officially begins in November) and last until late May.
And in good old Bangkok?
Well, the rainy season here generally falls between July and October.
Now:
Contrary to popular belief, the rainy season does NOT bring constant rain.
Instead:
It will typically rain for between one and two hours a day, and then dry out.
However:
When it does rain, it can feel like the heavens have opened up upon you and like you need to start building an Ark, a la Noah.
Therefore:
Be prepared and use the Thailand packing list below!
- Short Sleeve Shirts (2)
- Sleeveless Shirts (1)
- Summer Dresses (2)
- Light, breathable pants (1)
- Legginga (1)
- Light Scarf (1)
- Light breathable shorts (1)
- Long Skirts (1)
- Sunhat (1)
- Sunglasses (1)
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repelent
- Water Bottle
- Bras (3)
- Underwear (7)
- Socks (7)
- Comfortable Sleep Clothes (1)
- Light Jacket (1)
- Cardigan (1)
- Heavy Sweatshirt or Sweater (1)
- Comfortable Sandals with a back (1)
- Fashionable Slip-on-Sneakers (1)
- Umbrella (1)
- Raincoat (1)
- Waterproof Boots (1)
- Bathing Suit (1)
- Quick Dry Towel (1)
PSSST: Before You Go, You Might Also Want to Download Some of These Apps Before Traveling to Thailand
- Grab – This is basically Southeast Asia’s version of Uber. And yes, it really is THAT amazing! Not only is it WAY cheaper than a taxi, but you can quickly and easily catch a Grab from almost anywhere, simply by using the GPS on your phone. Plus, you can even pre-pay for your rides using a credit card on the app, making payment a total breeze. So, behold the power of Grab and never get ripped off by a “faulty” taxi meter again.
- Next Station – Use this handy little app to help you navigate Bangkok’s MRT (train) network.
- iTranslate – This modern miracle of an app allows you to instantly translate signs and menus into English using iTranslate.
- Sygic – Need directions but don’t have any data on your phone while you’re in Thailand? Then just use Sygic! It’s basically just like Google maps, except that you download country maps to your phone, allowing you to quickly and easily navigate through Thailand, without the use of either Wifi or mobile data.
There you have it travel fans, my absurdly comprehensive guide on what to pack for Thailand.
What do you think? Is this Thailand packing list everything you thought it would be and more?
If you’re emphatically nodding your head yes (and I pray to God that you are), then by all means, pin this now and read it again later!
