what to pack for seoul

27 Top Seoul Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

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Seoul is one of the most incredible cities in the world, offering so much in a single destination. From the pinnacle of nightlife to cultural & historical sites that rival anything in the region, there is something for everybody, and it’s all in one safe, affordable, and friendly city.

As with any destination, making the most of your trip requires coming prepared, and we’ve put together everything you’ll need to make your trip to Seoul unforgettable. From the absolute must-haves to learning how to dress for the occasion, this guide has everything you’ll need to be ready for your visit to Seoul!

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What to Pack for Seoul – 27 Essentials

  • 1. Universal Travel Adapter

    Universal Travel Adapter

    Like many East Asian cities, Seoul is a hub of technology. To keep all your electronics charged and ready to go, you’ll likely need a travel adapter. To get the most bang for your buck, we recommend getting a universal travel adapter suitable for your trip to Seoul and beyond!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Daypack

    Venture Pal Ultralight Lightweight Packable

    For a long day out in the city, you’ll likely want to bring along many different items. From phones to umbrellas to water bottles, depending on your plans for the day, it may require more than just the essentials. To keep everything safe from harm but easy to carry, bring along this all-purpose daypack!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    how a vpn works

    Seoul is targeted for malicious code infections, randomware, and identity theft – all of which are on the rise in South Korea. Despite the general low crime rate here, the online crime is growing and this puts you at increased digital risk. To protect your online safety and security, make use of a virtual private network (VPN). This allows you to assure your privacy and protection from those seeking to steal information while you’re connected to public networks. It also mitigates online censorship which is likely to be a problem during your visit.

    View options at NordVPN

  • 4. Packing Cubes

    packing cubes

    Seoul is a densely populated yet highly efficient place, and the same should be said about how you pack for a visit to this amazing city. To help you organize all your belongings, utilize packing cubes to make both packing and unpacking a breeze. Easily separate and categorize all of your possessions, and stop being afraid of that last-minute opening of your suitcase!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. Sunscreen

    Sunscreen

    In Seoul and many other places in East Asia, people go to great lengths to protect their skin from the sun. We recommend following this cultural norm, as even in a city like Seoul it’s important to protect yourself from the harsh solar radiation. A simple sunscreen being regularly applied is all you’ll need to stay safe and healthy!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 6. Travel Insurance for South Korea

    Travel Insurance for South Korea

    We believe travel insurance is essential regardless of the destination. Whether it be the safest or most dangerous place on Earth, it’s always best to protect yourself in case of accident or emergency. A key part of doing this is to make sure you have a travel insurance plan that has you covered in any event. We sue Faye because they cover against flight delays, baggage loss, and even entire trip cancellation. Basically if anything deters from the plan, which pretty much always happens, you’re covered.

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye

  • 7. Slip-on Shoes

    Slip-on Shoes

    You’ll be taking your shoes off frequently in Seoul, so I’d recommend a pair of comfortable shoes that are easy to take on and off. It’s customary to remove kicks before entering homes, traditional restaurants, schools, temples and more. This is to maintain cleanliness but it is also a cultural norm in South Korea to show respect for indoor spaces and leaving dirt outdoors.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 8. Water-Resistant Shoe Bag

    Water-Resistant Shoe Bag

    To swap in and out of your street shoes, you could bring a pair of indoor slippers in this beautiful shoe bag. It’s the perfect way to consolidate all of the dirt and street grime to one stylish place. This will level up the degree of respect you are showing and is smart for trading back into your outdoor shoes while keeping comfortable house shoes in tow.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 9. Portable Charger

    Portable Charger

    For most people, a trip to Seoul will make regular use of their phones, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices. While it’s important to start the day charged and ready to go, sometimes you need that extra bit of juice. To make sure that you aren’t left without access to your devices while on the go, bring along a portable charger for fast charging of your devices.

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  • 10. Luggage Locks

    luggage locks

    You’ll likely be taking many trains and planes during your trip in Seoul. The best way to keep your luggage secure is with a set of luggage locks. These are TSA-approved so you won’t have any problems going through airports.

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  • 11. Cooling Towel

    cooling towel

    Seoul’s picturesque cityscape and endless cultural beauty will have you exploring the city day and night. From walking through perfectly manicured parks, to winding street by street in search of hidden gems, you’ll find yourself constantly on the go. Stay cool and dry on your adventures with the help of a cooling towel and stop letting the heat hinder your adventures!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. South Korea eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

    saily

    Landing in Incheon, the last thing you want is to waste time hunting down a SIM card counter or juggling paper contracts. An eSIM means you’re connected the moment you step off the plane so you can order that taxi ride, translate menus, and post photos of the gorgeous sites. Physical SIM cards are overpriced pieces of plastic that can get lost or stolen. eSIM is the way to go for a seamless data-only plan that covers you in a fast-paced city.

    Our gift for your trip to Seoul: Use our link for an automatic 5% off, because staying connected in the world’s tech capital should be easy and roaming rates are old news!

    Pick a data plan at Saily.com

  • 13. Neck Wallet

    Neck-Wallet

    Besides cybercrime, one of the many wonderful aspects of Seoul is its safety, with remarkably low crime rates and a very friendly population. That being said, even in the safest of places it’s a good idea to take precautions to ensure that your most important possessions are safe and sound. For this reason, we recommend using a neck wallet to guarantee the protection of your finances and identifying essentials. It’s also RFID-blocking to stop e-thieves from scanning your financial data, which is a lifesaver on busy international travel days.

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  • 14. Activated Charcoal

    Activated Charcoal

    Between the tteokbokki, fried chicken, and Korean BBQ – you’ll be trying an array of new flavors. These indulgences are known to lead to stomach aches and even potentially food poisoning. We always bring charcoal in our toiletry bag to resolve unexpected food mishaps and travel bloat. It’s a miracle worker and keeps you out of the bathroom when you should be trying market mystery snacks!

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  • 15. Water Bottle

    Water Bottle

    Why overpay for single-use plastic? While certainly far from the hottest destination in the region, Seoul can still be hot and humid enough to quickly leave you dehydrated. Especially while spending long days exploring the city, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. To help stay hydrated and reduce your use of disposables, be sure to have a water bottle that can support you on your trip to Seoul and beyond.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    travel towel

    Whether while at the airport, on the plane, or out in the city, traveling can often leave you begging for a shower. To help you clean off in a pinch or get some relief from the heat, using a quick-dry travel towel will help you stay dry and comfortable in any circumstance.

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  • 17. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    hanging toiletry bag

    Like much of East Asia, and especially in big cities like Seoul, space can be tight. This is even more so true for accommodation, and especially in the bathroom. To make use of that often-unused vertical space, a hanging toiletry bag allows you to free up the counter and give you that much more breathing room.

    If you’ve never seen one of these, you’re in for a treat! It is a game-changer for tiny Korean bathrooms that lack sufficient storage space. Instead of juggling your toiletries and toothbrush on the edge of a small sink, bring this foldable case that acts as a collapsible shelf. It hangs nearly anywhere and keeps your new K-beauty products from getting soaked on wet counters.

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  • 18. Tickets to Top Seoul Attractions

    Tickets to Top Seoul Attractions

    While in Seoul, enhance your itinerary with cultural tours like the DMZ (demilitarized zone, including the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, a passageway dug by North Korea, and hear the history of these battles). We highly recommend a food tour to learn the market’s finest offerings as told by the locals, and there are awesome day trips to areas like Nami Island, Mt. Seorak, and Gyeongbok Palace.

    Get Your Guide is our favorite booking service for authentic tours that really immerse you in the local culture. They have a flexible cancellation policy and thousands of reviews that help you to find the best experiences for your getaway.

    See all Seoul attractions at GetYourGuide.com

  • 19. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Especially in the warmer months, rain makes a regular appearance and can be much more than just a drizzle. To give you and your items the protection they need while moving about the city, we recommend bringing a windproof travel umbrella. This one is awesome because it covers two peole and is much higher quality than the garbage you’ll find at tourist shops.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 20. Film Camera

    Film Camera

    Add extra nostalgia on your trip with these retro film cameras. They offer such a unique way to capture the feeling of places with much more accuracy. While film cameras can be more difficult to use than phones or disposable ones, they offer a classic style that we’re losing touch with these days. If you haven’t used this type of camera before, give it a try on your trip to Seoul and you’ll see why so many people now take their Polaroid camera everywhere they go. Here’s a box of extra film.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 21. Fanny Pack

    Crossbody Daypack

    Sometimes even a small daypack can be a bit too much for certain activities, and it’s always convenient to have a smaller and lighter means of carrying your essentials. Fanny packs are a perfect solution, keeping your items visible and accessible while being even lighter and more comfortable than even a small backpack.

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  • 22. Deet-free Mosquito-Repellent Wristbands

    Repellent

    South Korea does encounter cases of mosquito-borne illness like Japanese Encephalitis, Dengue Fever, and Malaria. People often assume that they are safe from pesky insects while in the city, but sadly this is not always the case. In the hot and humid summer climate, even the concrete jungle of Seoul harbors mosquitoes and other pests. Don’t risk having to deal with painful and itchy bug bites by using Deet-free insect repellent; these are wearable and reusable so you don’t have to drown yourself in toxic fumes.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 23. "Just in Case" Bag

    Seoul is a shopper’s paradise! Between Myeongdong skincare hauls, Hongdae fashion finds, and quirky souvenirs from Insadong, your suitcase will fill up faster than you think. This compact “just-in-case” bag slips easily into your luggage on the way there, then becomes your secret weapon on the way home. It even mitigates carry-on fees, (thank us later!)

    View on Amazon.com

  • 24. Luggage Straps

    Luggage Straps

    As a safety net for your luggage, most baggage incidents actually occur on international flights. These straps adjust to fit any luggage or carry-on bag and keep it securely shut. Since it can handle 700 lbs of force tensino, nothing is escaping these, not even K-fashion finds or skincare hauls. One of my favorite things about these is how you can pick a bright color or distinct pattern and immediately know which set of bags are yours. In a sea of black, boring suitcases that circle the carsousel, this is a huge time-saver.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 25. Waterproof Travel Blanket

    Waterproof Travel Blanket

    As a bonus addition you won’t find on every packing list, I am a lounger. I like to lounge at picnics, on a beach, find a glorious park to sprawl out in and read a book, or wherever the beautiful sites are so I can relax a while. This pocket blanket is the perfect conduit to these experiences since you’ll have a waterproof and dirt-proof mat to sit by the Han River and eat your fried chicken on! Han River hangs at sunset are basically a right of passage, so leave some flexible time in your schedule to just chill.

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  • 26. Flight Compression Socks

    Flight Compression Socks

    The flight to Seoul from almost anywhere is long. Use compression flight socks to minimize any leg swelling and maintain blood circulation, which can be a struggle in a pressurized cabin when you’re seated most of the time. Be sure to stretch your legs multiple times and you can also use these for marathon shopping days in Dongdaemun when your stems could use extra support. Bonus points for making them stylish since you’ll be taking off your shoes often!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 27. Face Mask

    Face Mask

    You don’t have to wear this everyday, but it’s wise to have the option since Seoul can get hit by airborne irritants like Gobi dust or traffic pollution. You’ll see some locals wearing these if they are in busy, public places or perhaps feel a respiratory cold coming on. It’s a respectful way to not spread germs and these are called ‘KN95s’ because they have a filtration efficiency of 95%.

    View on Amazon.com

What to Wear in Seoul

What to Wear in SeoulKoreans are very fashionable people and go to great lengths to update and maintain their style. While it’s important to dress for comfort and convenience, enjoy expressing your style in this fashion-forward metropolis.

Whether your style is streetwear or vintage, there is a place to express yourself. From art galleries to nightclubs, Seoul is an opportunity to indulge your tastes and dress to impress. Below, we’ve curated suggested items for both men and women to wear on a trip to Seoul.

What Should WOMEN Wear in Seoul? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Lounge Shorts
Sports Bra
Walking Shoes
Flip Flops
Jean Shorts
Jeans
Dress
Purse
Blouse
Rain Jacket
Cap
Athletic Socks
Tank Top
Athletic Shirt
Sunglasses
Dress with Pockets
Neck Wallet

Seoul’s mild climate and open atmosphere allow for almost every kind of dress. Even so, we still recommend prioritizing comfort above all else, and to come prepared for a variety of weather and activities. For exploring the city and doing any exercise, stylish activewear is perfectly suited. In case of rain or cold, light jackets will be enough to assure your comfort. As always, accessorizing is key, with purses, backpacks, and other extras being a stylish way to add functionality to your travels.

What Should MEN Wear in Seoul? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Shorts
Flip Flops
Sunglasses
Tank Top
Fit Short-Sleeve Shirt
Athletic Shirt
Sneakers
Rain Jacket
Bucket Hat
Jeans
Athletic Socks
Cap
Bomber Jacket
Polo Shirt

For a trip to Seoul, dressing for men is especially easy. From a simple t-shirt and shorts to formal dress wear, you’ll see a little bit of everything and will easily fit right in it. Regardless of your style, it’s always good to bring the basics including jeans, sneakers, and a jacket.

Packing for the Seasons in Seoul

  • Wet Season — May, June, July, August, September, October

    Wet Season Seoul Packing List Items

    The warmer months in Seoul are quite long-lasting, wet, and warm. However, compared to much of the world, even the peak summer temperatures are relatively mild, with highs of only about 91°F (33°C). To stay cool during your summer visit, be sure to bring light and airy clothing including shorts, tank tops, and athletic clothing. The warmer months are from May to October, with the hottest period being from the end of May to the end of September, with average daily highs above 75°F (24°C). The single hottest month is in August which has average highs of ~84°F (29°C

  • Dry Season — November, December, January, February, March, April

    Dry Season Seoul Packing List Items

    The winters in Seoul are similarly mild as the summers, with many people coming with much more winter gear than they’ll ever need. That being said, it can still certainly get cold and it’s important to have sufficient warm dress. We recommend coming prepared with winter simple and relatively light winter gear, including a jacket, boots, and long pants.

    Of course, while going around the city you’ll want to also be able to move about easily and comfortably, so it’s important to strike the balance between comfort and convenience. The cold season lasts for roughly 3 months, approximately from the beginning of December to the end of February, with average daily highs below 44°F (~7°C). The single coldest month is in January, with an average low of 22°F (-6°C) and a high of 34°F (~1°C).

Dressing Appropriately for the Activity – (Click to expand)

Nightlife: Korea and Seoul in particular have quickly become one of the East’s best nightlife destinations. From unique boutique bars to some of the best clubs in the world, Seoul will impress even the most seasoned nightlife veteran. Most bars and clubs have no strict dress code, and you will find a huge variety of styles from both locals and other travelers. Depending on your interest, whether it be hip hop, K-pop, or even country, bring along clothing best suited to what suits your own interests! For those who’d like some more guidance, we recommend simple clothing such as jeans, fitted t-shirts, and sneakers.

Temples, Museums, & Historical Sites: Like many of the cultural and historical sites in the region, many places require a more modest dress for entry. While this will vary by location, and often will permit most forms of dress, if you plan to make these sites a big part of your trip, we recommend bringing along comfortable clothing that will cover your shoulders and knees. This includes simple dress including jeans, t-shirts, or more formal attire.

Walking & Exploration: There is so much to see in Seoul that can’t be boiled down to a single location or activity. Much of the beauty and enjoyment comes from wandering the city and seeing what you can find. To dress for this, we recommend leaving fashion behind and dressing by prioritizing your comfort. A comfortable pair of sneakers and athletic clothing such as quick dry t-shirts and shorts will leave you well-equipped to take on a long day of exploring.

What NOT to Bring to Seoul

  • 1. DON’T Bring Outdoor Gear & Equipment

    While there are certainly a few fantastic hikes and outdoor activities within reach of the city, Seoul is primarily an urban metropolis. While you should bring along the basics suitable for hiking and exercising within the city like athletic socks and some durable shoes, there’s no need to bring any specialized equipment for harsher environments.

  • 2. DON’T Bring Food & Drink

    As with any foodie destination, unless you have a relevant health condition or dietary restrictions, bringing along anything to eat or drink would be a travesty. Seoul is famous for its street food, fine dining, and everything in between. Making the most of your trip means trying as many incredible Korean dishes as possible!

  • 3. DON’T Bring Books

    We hope you won’t have the time to be reading during your trip to Seoul, as it’s as active of a city as can be. Even so, if you’re looking to delve into a good book on your way to and from the city, on public transportation, or to help you get ready for bed, we strongly recommend bringing along a digital reading tool like the kindle instead of the often heavy and cumbersome books.

  • 4. DON’T Bring Too Many Clothes

    While Korea is a stylish place that will have you wanting to dress your best, you won’t need too much clothing overall. Much of what is suitable for daily exploration and cultural sites is also often suitable for nightlife, making it easy to pack light while still having everything you’ll need.

  • 5. DON’T Bring Water Gear

    Except for perhaps the hotel pool, there’s little opportunity to get in the water in Seoul. While other parts of Korea have fantastic beaches that you won’t want to miss, in Seoul you’re more than prepared with a bathing suit alone. Leave the diving equipment at home for this trip and enjoy having that much less gear to pack and manage!

  • 6. DON’T Bring Excessive Warm Clothing

    While the winters can certainly get chilly, you won’t find the bone-chilling cold that you might in other places in the region. Even in the warmer months, it’s important to bring along at least some warmer clothing like a light jacket, and even in the winter, it’s best to leave your heavy-duty winter coat at home, along with similarly warm clothing.

What NOT to Wear – (Click to expand)

Seoul is an open and accepting place where most people can dress as they would at home and find themselves dressed appropriately. It’s best to wear more modest clothing in general, to assure that you’ll never be denied as a matter of dress code. If traveling in the winter, avoid wearing clothes that are designed for especially cold climates, as the winters are ultimately quite mild.

FAQs about Visiting Seoul

  • 1. Is Seoul a safe city?

    Is Seoul a safe city?

    Seoul and most of South Korea are incredibly safe, with some of the lowest crime rates in the world. Whether you’re traveling alone, with children, or under any other circumstances you should have little worry about falling victim to crime of any kind. That being said, rules of common sense apply, and it’s important to stay vigilant and take precautions to keep yourself safe.

  • 2. Is it easy to get around?

    Seoul is a massive city, both in terms of area and population. Thankfully, they have developed a world-leading public transportation system, including one of the most expansive metro systems in the world. While navigating the city this way can initially be a bit confusing, it quickly becomes simple and makes getting around quick and cheap.

  • 3. Are there any outdoor activities available?

    Are there any outdoor activities available?

    Seoul is a modern metropolis, with most of the best things to do being in an urban setting. That being said, there are still several outdoor activities that will make you feel like you’ve long left the city. This includes enjoying Seoul’s expansive parks, where you can cheaply and conveniently rent bicycles, grab a bite to eat, or sit by the water. On top of this, there are easy-to-access bus routes that will take you a short distance out of the city to some of the best hiking in the country.

  • 4. Where is the best nightlife in Seoul?

    Now famous for its nightlife, it can often be difficult to decide where best to go. Foreign visitors typically spend most of their time enjoying the nightlife in Itaewon, which is considered the foreigner district. While certainly worth taking the time to investigate, other incredible destinations include Hongae & Sinchon, which are two younger areas of the city situated around universities.

  • 5. What is there to eat?

    What is there to eat?

    Korean food is considered by many to be some of the best in the world, with many famous foods including Korean BBQ, Korean fried chicken, and many delectable traditional dishes. Although, while it is a meat eaters paradise, Korea can be a challenging destination for those who abstain from having meat in their diet.

  • 6. Is Seoul a friendly city?

    Korean people are famously hospitable, and especially in Seoul readily welcome visitors. From waiters and waitresses to the police, you’ll always find a helping hand and a smiling face in Seoul as well as in the rest of the country.

  • 7. Is Seoul expensive?

    Is Seoul expensive?

    For its size, safety, and desirability, Seoul is a relatively inexpensive city and is significantly cheaper in many respects. Especially compared to many of its neighboring cities to which it’s often compared, Seoul offers a myriad of inexpensive accommodations, foods, and shopping. Of course, there are plenty of luxury options also available in Seoul, with some of the most luxurious sites in Asia. Whether you’re looking for a budget holiday or an indulgent celebration, Seoul has it all.

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