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Packing List for Thailand

Packing for Thailand requires a balance between staying cool in tropical heat, being prepared for temple visits, and having the essentials for beaches and adventures. Thailand has a tropical climate with temperatures typically between 25-35°C year-round, and high humidity. This complete packing list covers everything you need, whether you are visiting for 2 weeks or 2 months.

Clothing Essentials

Lightweight, Breathable Clothing

Pack light, loose-fitting clothing made from cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics. Think t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and flowy pants. Light colors reflect heat. Pack for 4-5 days and plan to do laundry - services are cheap (30-60 THB/kg) and available everywhere.

How to avoid: Skip jeans and heavy fabrics - you will overheat. Bring at most one pair of long pants for temple visits and nice restaurants.

Temple-Appropriate Clothing

Thai temples require covered shoulders and knees. Pack at least one outfit with long pants or a long skirt and a shirt that covers your shoulders. A sarong or large scarf is versatile - works as a temple cover-up, beach wrap, and airplane blanket.

How to avoid: Some temples offer sarongs for rent, but it is better to have your own. Keep a sarong in your day bag at all times.

Swimwear

Bring at least 2 swimsuits so one can dry while you wear the other. Quick-dry swim shorts double as regular shorts. A rash guard provides sun protection for snorkeling and water activities.

How to avoid: Cheap swimwear is readily available in Thailand if you need extras.

Rain Jacket or Poncho

A lightweight, packable rain jacket is essential, especially during the rainy season (May-October). Even in dry season, brief afternoon showers are common. A compact poncho works well and takes minimal space.

How to avoid: Cheap ponchos are available at any 7-Eleven for 40-80 THB if you forget yours.

Footwear

Comfortable Sandals or Flip-Flops

Your primary footwear in Thailand. Good quality flip-flops or sandals are perfect for beaches, temples (easy to slip on/off), and daily walking. Brands like Havaianas or Teva are ideal. You remove shoes constantly in Thailand - temples, homes, some shops.

How to avoid: Break in new sandals before your trip to avoid blisters.

Lightweight Walking Shoes

If planning hikes, jungle treks, or extensive city walking, bring a pair of lightweight breathable sneakers or hiking sandals. Not necessary for beach-only trips.

How to avoid: Skip heavy hiking boots unless trekking in northern mountains during cool season.

Health & Toiletries

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

The tropical sun in Thailand is intense - much stronger than in the Netherlands. Bring a high SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently, especially near water. Reef-safe sunscreen is preferred if snorkeling.

How to avoid: Sunscreen in Thailand is more expensive than in the Netherlands - bring enough from home. Available at 7-Eleven and pharmacies if needed.

Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes are present throughout Thailand, particularly at dawn and dusk. Dengue and malaria are risks in some areas. DEET-based repellent (20-30% DEET) is most effective. Apply to exposed skin in the evening.

How to avoid: Thai brand 'Soffell' is excellent and cheap locally. But bring DEET repellent from home for the first days.

Basic First Aid & Medications

Pack: anti-diarrhea medicine (Imodium), rehydration salts, paracetamol, plasters/band-aids, antiseptic wipes, antihistamines for allergies, and any personal prescription medications. Pharmacies in Thailand are well-stocked and many medicines are available without prescription.

How to avoid: Bring prescription medications in original packaging with the prescription, especially controlled substances.

Electronics & Gadgets

Power Adapter

Thailand uses Type A, B, and C power outlets (220V, 50Hz). Most European (Type C) two-pin plugs fit Thai outlets without an adapter. However, Type F grounded plugs (common in the Netherlands) may need a small adapter. Many modern Thai outlets accept multiple plug types.

How to avoid: Bring a universal adapter to be safe. They are cheap and avoid hassle.

Power Bank

A portable power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh) is essential for long days of exploring when you are using your phone for maps, Grab, photos, and translation. Thailand's heat can drain batteries faster.

How to avoid: Cheap power banks are available at electronics shops and 7-Eleven in Thailand if you forget yours.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Essential for boat trips, water activities, Songkran festival, and rainy season. A waterproof pouch protects your phone and lets you take underwater photos. Available cheaply in Thailand, but quality varies.

How to avoid: Buy a quality brand like OverBoard or Mpow before your trip - cheap market ones may leak.

Travel Documents

Essential Documents

Passport (6+ months validity), flight tickets, hotel bookings, travel insurance documents, international driving permit (if renting vehicles), vaccination certificates (if applicable), and copies of all important documents stored separately and digitally.

How to avoid: Store digital copies in your email, cloud storage, and phone. Share copies with a trusted person at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy most things in Thailand instead of packing them?

Yes! Thailand has excellent shopping and you can buy almost anything locally, often cheaper than at home. 7-Elevens are on every corner with toiletries, snacks, rain ponchos, and basic supplies. Markets sell cheap clothing. Only bring essentials: prescription medications, specific sunscreen brands, and quality electronics. This is especially useful for longer trips - pack light and buy locally.

How much luggage should I bring?

Travel as light as possible. A 40-50 liter backpack or a small suitcase is ideal for 2-4 weeks. If island hopping, a backpack is much more practical than a suitcase for boat transfers and unpaved roads. Remember: laundry services are everywhere and very cheap (30-60 THB/kg), so you do not need clothing for every day.

Do I need a money belt or hidden pouch?

A money belt is not strictly necessary in Thailand as violent theft is rare. However, a slim travel pouch worn under your clothes is good for keeping your passport and emergency cash secure, especially in crowded markets. For daily use, a crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack is sufficient.

What should I NOT pack for Thailand?

Skip: heavy jeans, sweaters (unless visiting northern mountains in December-January), formal clothes (Thailand is casual), too many shoes (one pair of sandals and optionally sneakers), expensive jewelry, full-size toiletries (travel size or buy locally), and heavy books (use e-reader).

Quick Tips

💡Pack a small day bag or foldable backpack for daily excursions - leave your main luggage at the hotel.
💡Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles.
💡Bring a reusable water bottle - you can refill at filtered water stations found outside many 7-Elevens for just 1 THB.
💡A dry bag (10-20 liters) is incredibly useful for boat trips and keeping electronics safe from water.