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

Dating back to 500 BCE, Thailand is an exotic paradise with otherworldly beaches, golden palaces, ancient temples, and bustling cities. With Buddhist and Indian influence, this spiritual place is known as ‘The Land of Smiles,’ and the kindness and welcoming spirit of Thailand’s culture is deeply felt.

Since packing for foreign lands is not straightforward – I’ve put together an essential list of must-have items for Thailand, as well as what to wear, what NOT to bring, and some FAQs to avoid rookie mistakes!

What to Pack for Thailand – 27 Essentials

1. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

The tap water in Thailand isn’t purified enough for Westerners to drink without getting sick, but staying hydrated in a tropical climate is key. Bottled water is widely available, but in the event that it’s not or you’re going off the beaten path, this Grayl bottle is a literal lifesaver. It works by filtering the water as you drink through it, removing bacteria, viruses, pathogens, parasites, microplastics, dirt, and more.

It’s worth the investment to protect your health and well-being, not to mention a way to lower your carbon footprint and prevent using a ton of plastic water bottles that add to pollution.

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2. Thailand Power Adapter

They use quite a few different outlets in Thailand, so you will need a universal power adapter. This quality adapter offers multiple USB ports, short-circuit regulation, and over-voltage protection to protect your electronics from getting damaged. It works in Thailand, the US, the UK, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, and more, so you’ll find plenty of use for this one small investment.

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3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Thailand is prone to data breaches and sadly, tops all other SE Asia for phishing attacks. Hackers are known to target tourists on insecure Wi-Fi networks and are always watching your online activity. I learned this the hard way when my credit card number was stolen at an Airbnb. A VPN protects you with 1-click from losing your passwords, credit cards, and private identity. With a secure network, you are able to join free Wi-Fi at hotels, Airbnbs, restaurants, airports, etc. It offers real peace of mind that you won’t wake up to a drained bank account.

Furthermore, many websites that are available in your country will get blocked or censored overseas. If you’re planning to stay connected on your Thailand trip (for work needs, free internet surfing, or to stream your favourite shows via Netflix, HBO, or live TV) – a VPN like NordVPN is the best way to ensure you will have full access, anonymity, and privacy. And it’s wildly affordable!

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4. Female Urination Device

Okay, don’t get weirded out by this one. Thailand is a place with limited toilets and if you do happen to find a public one, it’ll probably be disgusting. Guys just pee on the street but that’s not possible for women. This little device allows Western women to stand and pee with no mess and no more hurting bladder

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5. Neck Wallet & Passport Holder

Unfortunately, skilled pickpockets are very common in places like Bangkok and any crowded places you may visit in Thailand. The best solution we’ve found is to keep your valuables – such as cash, credit cards, passports, and phones – stashed away in a concealable neck wallet like the one pictured. By doing that, you make it next to impossible for pickpockets to steal from you while keeping essential travel documents organized and on hand. This one has RFID-blocking material so e-thieves won’t be able to scan your bag either. It’s also super convenient for staying organized on long travel days when the jet lag sets in and you need to easily access important documents.

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6. Travel Insurance for Thailand

Thailand is an amazing place to explore, but it’s also one where things don’t always go as planned. Whether it’s a canceled flight, a stolen phone, a sudden stomach bug, or a scooter mishap, travel insurance can save you from turning an unforgettable trip into an expensive nightmare.

Healthcare in Thailand is generally good, but it’s not free, and your regular insurance likely won’t cover you abroad. If you’re planning to do anything active (like diving in Koh Tao, hiking in Chiang Mai, or renting a motorbike on the islands), make sure your policy includes adventure sports coverage.

We like World Nomads because their policies are designed for travelers, with coverage for tons of activities and easy online claims. It’s not the most exciting thing to buy for your trip, but it could be the most important.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with World Nomads

7. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Remedy)

If you’re careful with your food and water, you hopefully won’t have too many health problems in Thailand. That said, a lot of travellers end up getting sick at least once, so pack some activated charcoal to be prepared. These capsules quickly absorb whatever toxins are in your system, stopping the dreaded diarrhoea that comes with eating contaminated food in a developing country.

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8. Electrolytes

Electrolytes are also great to have in case you get sick in Thailand, as diarrhoea can leave you seriously dehydrated, which is especially dangerous in a hot, humid climate. Even if you’re not sick, staying hydrated in Thailand’s climate is a challenge, so taking electrolytes on a regular basis will keep you in tip-top shape, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outside. If you do become ill, drop one of these powder-filled packets in a bottle of water to replenish the electrolytes you’re losing.

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9. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a saviour when it comes to staying organized on the road. Thailand possesses diverse terrain, and you need to be prepared for anything! Instead of digging around in your luggage looking for your missing bikini bottom, just pull out the clearly-labelled cube. I also bring along 1 or 2 smaller cubes in my backpack on excursion days and hiking trips, keeping my essentials and like-items together for easy access. Not to mention, the 2 bonus laundry bags make a huge difference in separating dirty and clean items.

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10. Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

Between river cruises, canoeing down lakes, and swimming in stunning bays or tropical reefs – you will find yourself completely surrounded by water in Thailand. If you want to protect your phone from water, sand, dust, and dirt while also being able to take underwater photos and videos, then this little phone case is a must. We just took it with us for a snorkelling adventure and snapped some jaw-dropping wildlife pics!

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11. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Not all hostels and budget guesthouses in Thailand provide towels, so it’s always smart to bring your own. Even if you are staying at a luxury resort, skip bringing a hotel towel on your off-the-beaten-path adventures – they’re bulky, will slow you down, and take too long to dry. This quick-dry towel absorbs moisture 10x faster than cotton. It’s light as a feather for everyday use and easily replaces the starchy, fluffy ones.

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12. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Whether you’re camping in one of the many national parks or staying in a crowded hotel or hostel – countertop space in Thailand is scarce. This hanging toiletry bag will help you maintain your self-care routine (and sanity!) as an intuitive storage system that puts everything at eye-level so you’re not leaving heaps of bottles all over the suite.

Overall, we’re in love with it because it’s an elegant method for vertically optimizing your life and freeing you to hang your items on any door, shower pole, branch, or hook. The clear sections reduce any rummaging or digging, and it has 4 spacious compartments on the inside that hold more products than you would guess, plus 3 smaller pockets on the outside. In fact, you might find yourself more organized in Thailand than you are at home!

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13. Discounted Tickets to Thailand Attractions

Don’t spend your time on vacation waiting in long lines or being turned away because everything is already booked. Instead, use Get Your Guide to shop excursions and create a dream itinerary.
If visiting Bangkok, check out the Ayutthaya Temples and The Grand Palace. I had Erawan National Park on my bucket-list and it did not disappoint! The Phi Phi islands are a blissful tropical secret and Chiang Mai has amazing daytrips to The White Temple and Doi Inthanon National Park.

And your Thai immersion wouldn’t be complete without meeting the wild elephants, eating your way through the local food markets, or exploring Krabi’s Emerald Pools and hot springs.

See all Thailand attractions at GetYourGuide.com

14. Luggage Straps

Whether due to a faulty lock, overpacking, or mishandled baggage – cases are damaged all the time. And there is a higher likelihood of your bag being mishandled for international flights (about 800% more likely than for a domestic flight), so you don’t want a bag to pop open mid-journey. Reinforce your cases with these TSA-friendly luggage straps that extend the life of your travel equipment and adjust to fit nearly any bag.

They make the journey way less stressful since you can quickly find your bag at the arrivals terminal, tether bags together in busy places, create a makeshift handle, and cinch-in your carry-on bag so it fits in the overhead compartment (even if you’ve stuffed it full of Thai souvenirs!) The uses are only limited to your creativity and they’re a must-have for any avid traveller.

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15. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Luggage locks are an essential travel item I never leave home without. I don’t want to risk anything getting stolen out of my luggage while it’s in transit or even when it’s sitting in my hotel room with cleaning staff going in and out. I always secure my suitcase and day bags with these locks to keep thieves from even considering the attempt of petty theft. You can never be too careful!

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16. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

From the Himalayan mountains of the North, to the luscious forests of the East, to the crystal-clear waters along the West and South – you will be surrounded on all sides by nature. Even without access to a reliable power grid, you will still need a well-charged device, and a portable charger is a non-negotiable travel accessory. It could mean the difference between having a GPS and the ability to call for help in an emergency or being completely stranded. We love this one because it’s smaller than a tube of lipstick and charges multiple devices in one day.

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17. Thailand eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

Your UK phone plan won’t be a big help in Thailand, if anything, they’ll overcharge you for international data roaming and text fees. Make the smarter call with Saily eSIM, a digital service that is ready to go as soon as you land!

Since you only pay for the amount of data you need, it’s cheaper than paying as you go. It also spares you the hassle of hunting for a local SIM after a long flight, risking it getting lost, or dealing with sketchy public Wi-Fi networks. Since Saily operates in 200+ destinations, it’s great for traveling between different countries and hopping between the best networks in Asia.

Here’s a little travel bonus: 5% off with code “ASHER5” applied at checkout with our link.

Pick a data plan at Saily.com

18. Travel Sheets

If you’re a budget traveller in Thailand, you might run into some rooms that are far from spotless. When that happens, it’ll be nice to have a lightweight travel sheet. They also work great when the AC is cranked way too high on the bus or train, or if your hotel bed is not quite as pristine as you would like.

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19. Mosquito-Repellent Bracelets & Afterbite

There’s no specific mosquito season in Thailand… Because it’s always mosquito season in Thailand! These thirsty vampires flock to areas that thrive in moisture, so the balmy weather here makes it a hot spot for insects. Defend yourself with these mosquito-repellent bracelets (they’re easier and healthier than respraying chemicals all day). If you do get bit, having some After-Bite on hand will accelerate your healing.

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20. Windproof Travel Umbrella

July through October is Thailand's rainy season, but romantic drizzles year-round keep the country vibrant and lush. An umbrella is a wise precaution, and this one weighs only one pound, so it’s easy to throw in your backpack or purse when not in use. If the downpours are more intense, you may also consider full-body protection with a rain jacket.

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21. Mesh Slip-On Water Shoes

Hiking in Thailand can be epic, especially to magical places like Khao Sok and Doi Suthep Mountain National Park. But typical hiking shoes will weigh you down and get very heavy through all of the waterfalls and slippery landscapes (not to mention leeches are an extremely common sight, so you’ll want protective footwear). We recommend these amphibious water shoes that will be great for both land and sea. With a breathable mesh design, they dry faster than regular hiking shoes, which prevents blisters and won’t weigh you down.

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22. Waterproof Travel Backpack

I usually find travelling with a backpack to be the most convenient, as it keeps my hands free and can double as my carry-on when flying. We had our backpack get absolutely soaked on a boat tour – ruining all cash, phones, and day-to-day items. Don’t repeat our mistakes, always opt for waterproof material. This fantastic pack is lightweight but has a lot of storage capacity.

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23. Cooling Towels

Thailand’s climate is warm, balmy, and humid. While these tropical elements sound nice in theory, you don’t want to be melting through on a jungle hike or burning up as a golden temple is reflecting sunlight directly at you in long lines! Always pack along this cooling towel for a refreshing burst of relief – simply wet, wring out, and it will become 20+ degrees cooler than the air’s temperature for up to an hour. It’s a slice of heaven and I never tackle excursion days without it.

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24. Affordable Underwater Camera

The underwater world of Thailand is arguably more beautiful than above the surface, so make the most of your time by capturing memories. This durable little camera is perfect for travel because it’s not so precious that you can’t beat it up a little, and it won’t break the bank. You’ll be able to take gorgeous photos both on land and underwater. Plus, it’s a great solution if you don’t want a more expensive GoPro or DSLR camera.

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25. Kimono or Swimsuit Cover-Up

You should definitely bring a kimono to Thailand because they have so many uses for travellers: towel, blanket, swimsuit cover-up, curtain, skirt, scarf – the list goes on. A cover-up will also be needed to visit many Buddhist and Hindu temples across the country because covered shoulders are a sign of respect, so this can serve as your modesty wrap. They can become one of your most versatile travel items since they’re lightweight and so multi-purposeful.

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26. Lonely Planet Thailand Guidebook

Maybe it’s a little cliché, but after years of travelling, I still swear by Lonely Planet guidebooks. With maps, reviews, cultural insights, and insider tips – they cover both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations, always giving the reader budget-friendly options. The Lonely Planet series is updated pretty regularly, so be sure to check out the newest edition.

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27. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

Thailand is famous for extremely affordable handmade goods like amulets, Thai silk, flower soap, ornate wooden carvings, dried fruit, spices, tea leaves, and more. If you want to bring some exotic treats home with you, this “just in case” bag is a brilliant game-plan! It will spare you baggage fees on the flight home because it easily fits under your seat as a personal item. On the way there, it takes up virtually zero space in your suitcase. But on the way home, it can be filled with authentic treasures and the perfect gifts for family and friends!

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Packing for the Seasons in Thailand

HOT SEASON — March, April, May, June.

Heat climbs quickly and is quite oppressive due to the dense humidity in this region. Rains happen occasionally and only add to the humidity. You’ll want light, quick-dry fabrics, comfortable sandals that strap on, a good sun hat, cute sunglasses, and plenty of sweat-resistant (and reef-safe!) sunscreen.

Visiting temples always requires fairly modest attire, so plan to bring lightweight items like linen shirts, linen pants, and maxi-skirts to cover you up but allow you to stay cool at the same time.

Hydration is also key, so bring a water bottle to ensure you always have a supply of safe drinking water!

Temperatures average between 85°F to 90°F (29°C to 32°C) with April and May being the hottest months.

WET or MONSOON SEASON

Andaman (West) Coast: June, July, August, September, and sometimes October.

Thai Gulf (East/South) Coast: September, October, November, and December.

Heavy rains and rough seas are typical of this season. In some parts of Thailand, rains come in heavy spurts and go as quickly as they come. In other parts, you’ll see longer, somewhat mild storms that can last for days.

Flooding is common regardless of area, and the temperature is still quite warm – the humidity makes it feel warmer! Wet season timing can vary from year to year, so be sure to do some research and look at the forecasts before you go.

You will absolutely need a windproof umbrella and a dependable rain jacket. You should also plan to bring a couple of pairs of shoes – waterproof hiking shoes are great, and sandals that strap on snugly and can be dried quickly are also a good idea.

Temperatures average between 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C).

COOL SEASON — November, December, January, February

In several areas of Thailand, the temperatures will drop a bit during this season, and drier air will move in. Don’t expect it to be too cool, though, unless you’re at a higher elevation and further north for an extended period of time. As always, it’s a good idea to look up the forecast to get a ballpark temperature estimate for the area you’ll be visiting.

Everyone reacts to temperatures differently, so you’ll want to pack according to your comfort level in the expected temps and bring a rain jacket just in case. Long-sleeved, lightweight shirts are great as long as they can dry quickly.

Linen pants are perfect, and good walking shoes are always crucial. You’ll still have plenty of sun, so be sure to pack a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen!

Temperatures average around 78°F (26°C) in most areas, with a colder snap for about a week in December.

What NOT to Bring to Thailand

1. DON’T BRING expensive jewellery.

Wearing flashy jewellery can make you a target, and there’s really no reason to risk it getting lost or stolen.

2. DON’T TAKE unnecessary valuables.

Theft does happen in Thailand, and stuff can get lost on the road. If you don’t really need something that’s valuable, it’s just not worth the risk.

3. DON’T PACK more than one pair of jeans.

You may want jeans for going out or for wearing on the plane, but limit yourself to one pair. They’re bulky and heavy, they take forever to dry, and you probably won’t want to wear them very often in Thailand’s tropical climate anyway.

4. DON’T PACK a mosquito net.

This is something I occasionally see on packing lists, and it’s really not worth bringing. Almost all accommodations in Thailand provide mosquito nets if they’re needed, and it’s often not possible to hang up your own anyway.

5. DON’T BRING a sleeping bag.

Unless you’re planning on doing a ton of camping, there’s no need to bring a sleeping bag. Use a travel sheet instead.

6. DON’T TAKE lots of cash.

There’s no reason to carry a lot of cash with you and risk it getting stolen. Except in the most remote areas, there are ATMs throughout Thailand, so it’s pretty easy to access cash once you’re there.

7. DON’T PACK heavy books.

Lots of guesthouses and cafes in Thailand have book exchanges, where you can pick up a paperback for free and drop it off at a future exchange when you’re done. Or, just bring a Kindle!

8. DON’T BRING too many clothes.

When you travel, don’t worry about repeating outfits. You can even pick up new and second-hand clothes for cheap at local markets in Thailand. Also, Thailand is known for amazing tailoring so you can even have clothes made when you get there.

FAQs about travel in Thailand

1. What vaccinations do I need?

Travellers to Thailand should be up to date on the following vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), tetanus, and typhoid.

In addition to those vaccines, most of which many UK residents already have, you should get a rabies vaccine only if you’re planning on doing significant outdoor activities, taking extended trips to remote areas, or coming into contact with animals. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) sometimes updates this list, so double-check requirements a few months before your trip.

2. Do I need to take malaria medication?

Malaria is present in Thailand and there is no vaccine. Malaria prophylaxis is only recommended for travel to Thai provinces that border Burma, Cambodia, or Laos. There is little to no risk in areas like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and others.

In most parts of Thailand, avoiding mosquito bites by using insect repellent, sleeping under a mosquito net, and wearing long pants and sleeves is sufficient for malaria prevention. You can read more about malaria in Thailand here.

3. What kind of visa do I need?

For citizens of most Western countries, no visa is needed for tourist visits of up to 30 days. Check your requirements here.

4. What’s the best way to get around?

Thailand is renowned for its long-distance rail network, and second-class train cars are the most popular among travellers. To get to destinations not serviced by train, the country has a number of bus companies offering long-distance routes.

Bangkok also has an incredibly sophisticated intra-city train and subway system, as well as a network of river ferries that can be convenient (and an interesting experience). Uber is available and popular in both Bangkok and Chiang Mai, too. In most other parts of the country, a variety of taxis, tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, and songthaews (local buses) are usually available.

While tuk-tuks are the quintessential transportation of Southeast Asia, they’re mainly used by tourists and are rarely the cheapest option. For visitors who know how to ride a scooter, picking up a rental is another popular way of getting around.

5. Are there ATMs?

Yes. With the exception of very rural areas and small islands, there are ATMs located throughout Thailand. It is wise to convert some cash before leaving for your trip.

6. Is the tap water safe to drink?

No, the tap water in Thailand is generally not safe for consumption. Some resorts and upscale restaurants offer filtered water, and otherwise, you can use a top-notch Grayl Filtered Water Bottle to filter it yourself. Bottled water is also widely available, but a reusable bottle with a built-in filter is the way to go. You’ll save some money, and you’ll produce less plastic waste. Plus, you can fill your bottle from anywhere, like streams, rivers, taps, and fountains.

7. Do I need to tip in restaurants?

Tips are appreciated in Thailand, but they’re not generally expected. However, it’s common to round up to the nearest bill when you pay.

8. How reliable is the Internet in Thailand?

Internet reliability varies widely across Thailand. In Bangkok and Chiang Mai, high-speed Internet is common. In other towns, many guesthouses and cafes offer Wi-Fi, but it’s slower and less reliable. In extremely rural areas and on very small islands, it may be non-existent.

9. What’s a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and why do I need one?

VPNs are crucial for the protection of your personal and financial data while you’re using the internet. Unsecured networks put you at risk of being hacked, and a VPN will add a layer of encryption between you and those would-be thieves. It can also help you gain access to blocked or censored content if you’re in a country where certain things are censored – this is common in certain Asian countries. I personally use NordVPN and highly recommend them. They’re affordable and offer great plans and service.

10. Is it safe to eat street food?

Eating street food in Thailand carries a small risk, but that shouldn’t hold you back (and honestly, eating in a restaurant is not necessarily any better). The best tricks for safely eating street food are to eat at local mealtimes and go to busy stalls – that ensures you’ll get fresh food, which is much less likely to cause a problem.

Beyond that, make sure everything is thoroughly cooked, avoid fruits and vegetables without a peel, and avoid drinks made with water or ice.

11. How can I respect the local Thai culture?

Thais consider the feet to be dirty, and it’s extremely rude to point your feet, particularly the bottom of your feet, at people, and images of Buddha.

Similarly, avoid using your feet to move or pick up objects, and do not step over people or even objects on the floor.
Thais consider the head to be sacred, and you should avoid touching Thai people’s head, face, and hair.
You also need to be very careful when discussing Thailand’s politics or government and not say anything that could be construed as criticizing the Thai royal family.
Thais expect visitors to be especially respectful when visiting temples, including speaking quietly, removing shoes, and covering the shoulders, chest, and knees.
Finally, women should not touch or hand anything to Buddhist monks.

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

Table of contents

What to Pack for Thailand – 27 Essentials

1. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

2. Thailand Power Adapter

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

4. Female Urination Device

5. Neck Wallet & Passport Holder

6. Travel Insurance for Thailand

7. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Remedy)

8. Electrolytes

9. Packing Cubes

10. Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

11. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

12. Hanging Toiletry Bag

13. Discounted Tickets to Thailand Attractions

14. Luggage Straps

15. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

16. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

17. Thailand eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

18. Travel Sheets

19. Mosquito-Repellent Bracelets & Afterbite

20. Windproof Travel Umbrella

21. Mesh Slip-On Water Shoes

22. Waterproof Travel Backpack

23. Cooling Towels

24. Affordable Underwater Camera

25. Kimono or Swimsuit Cover-Up

26. Lonely Planet Thailand Guidebook

27. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

Other Packing List Items for Thailand

What to Wear in Thailand?

Packing for the Seasons in Thailand

HOT SEASON — March, April, May, June.

WET or MONSOON SEASON

COOL SEASON — November, December, January, February

What NOT to Bring to Thailand

1. DON’T BRING expensive jewellery.

2. DON’T TAKE unnecessary valuables.

3. DON’T PACK more than one pair of jeans.

4. DON’T PACK a mosquito net.

5. DON’T BRING a sleeping bag.

6. DON’T TAKE lots of cash.

7. DON’T PACK heavy books.

8. DON’T BRING too many clothes.

FAQs about travel in Thailand

1. What vaccinations do I need?

2. Do I need to take malaria medication?

3. What kind of visa do I need?

4. What’s the best way to get around?

5. Are there ATMs?

6. Is the tap water safe to drink?

7. Do I need to tip in restaurants?

8. How reliable is the Internet in Thailand?

9. What’s a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and why do I need one?

10. Is it safe to eat street food?

11. How can I respect the local Thai culture?

Asher Fergusson

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