Living in Thailand, I meet a lot of travellers. This has turned into an informal survey opportunity for me, gathering tips on the most missed items and what turned out to be just dead weight in their luggage. So this article focuses on what’s a must and what’s a bust when packing for your trip to Thailand, from some unexpected must-haves to a simple item that has been a lifesaver when travelling with my little one.
Let’s get right to it: here’s your ultimate packing list for your next trip to Thailand, along with some real-world advice and useful extra tips for a great trip.
Must-Haves for your Trip
This isn’t a head-to-toe outfit list. It’s a mix of practical tips and local insight to help you pack smart, especially for things you might not realise you’ll need until you’re already here.
Dressing for Thailand’s Twists & Turns
Thailand’s weather can shift from sunny to rainy in a matter of minutes, so the best comfort hack is wearing lightweight clothing that doesn’t cling to your skin. Woven fabrics or those with a bit of texture, along with a looser fit, are your best bet. Trust me, wearing linen, cotton, or even special quick-dry and moisture-wicking materials makes all the difference to help you stay comfortable despite the heat and humidity.
Evenings don’t bring much of a temperature drop, so no need for a selection of jumpers or cardigans. However, if your plans include air-conditioned venues such as cinemas, malls, restaurants, or beauty salons, you might be glad to have a warm layer to put on. Air conditioning is often on full blast in these places, offering a refreshing break from the heat for some (like me), but potentially leaving others feeling a bit cold.
When visiting Thailand’s temples, dressing respectfully is crucial. Pack items that cover shoulders and knees, such as long skirts, trousers, and sarongs. Comfortable, easy-to-remove footwear is the best choice as you’ll often need to leave your shoes at the temple entrance, as well as in some stores and definitely in all homes. Surprised? You might be interested in these 10 unbelievable facts about Thailand you didn’t know. Some might save you from some typical cultural mishaps! Long sleeves are not only useful when visiting temples, they also keep you from burning in the hot sun and provide a physical barrier against mosquitoes.
Thailand Tech Tips
Your tech kit should include a portable power bank. Make sure to always pack it in your hand luggage and that it doesn’t exceed the maximum capacity. Generally, power banks with a capacity of between 20,000mAh and 32,000mAh are commonly accepted, but individual airline rules may differ. Important: check that the capacity is clearly indicated. If the staff at the airport is being extra thorough and can’t find the information (on the actual device itself), you may have to leave it behind. Doesn’t always happen – but it does!
Talking of things that don’t always happen, but do: lost or delayed luggage can happen on any trip. Although not exactly a secret tip, it’s still worth mentioning: if you have an iPhone, put an Apple AirTag in your luggage to keep tabs on it! We’re using waterproof Airtag holders with adhesive so they don’t slide around. I’ve heard several stories where having the AirTag was crucial in locating a missing bag. Additionally, when not travelling, they can be useful in everyday life, such as when attached to a keychain or placed in your wallet.
While some hotels might offer international plugs for your convenience, it’s best to be prepared. In Thailand, the official standards are sockets of type C and O, but you might also encounter type A and B plugs. A universal travel adapter will ensure you can connect your devices wherever you go.
If you love making memories last with photos and videos, especially on excursions like visiting an Elephant Sanctuary or taking a day trip to the Angthong National Park (I highly recommend both!), bringing along a waterproof action camera is a great idea. The Insta 360 GO is currently on top of my wishlist, but if you’re after something more budget-friendly, the AKASO action cam is a popular choice. The trusty GoPro Hero is always a solid option, too.
Packing tip for families: Get a camera for your kids, too! I pack my daughter’s digital camera on every trip. Many families overlook this, but it makes the experience extra special to capture everyone’s perspective and turn photo-taking into a fun family activity. Plus, seeing the holiday through their eyes is truly special – be ready for the most unexpected and imaginative photos!
For the Little Adventurers
Travelling with kids requires extra thought, and the list of things you could and should bring is huge and also very much depends on the age of your children. For now, let’s focus on the most important items that you may not have considered.
For younger kids, a travel must-have is a lightweight, collapsible stroller. I strongly recommend one that folds small enough to fit in the hand-luggage compartment, so you have it with you when you get off the plane, rather than having to collect it at baggage claim after you’ve walked through the whole airport. That also means it fits in the trunk of taxis, as well as in tuk-tuks and Songthaews.
I have to admit, though, Koh Samui and pretty much every other Thai island I’ve been to are usually not very stroller-friendly. Uneven, narrow sidewalks, dirt roads and of course the sand make pushing a stroller not an easy task. Island life tip: If you’re walking through sand, pull the stroller instead of pushing it. It might sound odd, but give it a try! I would recommend to also bring a baby carrier, just so you have options depending on the day you have planned: spending the day at Central Festival? Stroller. Going out to explore the sights? Carrier.
The next item might surprise you: bring your own swimming nappies if your child still needs them. You might expect them to be widely available, but surprisingly, that’s not the case. You can only find a very limited selection of disposable ones, and only at select stores like Central or Moyra Pharmacies. So you can find them, but I’d still bring my own. Same goes for sunscreen, you have options here, but they are limited, not cheap, and you might not find the one you use back home.
Last but to least, my top recommendation after our last trip: the BubbleBum inflatable car booster seat. Most taxis won’t have anything to accommodate kids, and this life-saver (quite literally!) weighs only around 500g and rolls into a small package that fits into any backpack.
Stay well, stay safe
First off, Thailand has plenty of pharmacies, and you’ll find that medications are usually both affordable and accessible, often without a prescription. However, it’s wise to be prepared. Packing a basic first aid kit can save you the hassle of hunting down a pharmacy when you’re already feeling unwell. Besides the common basics, it’s also a good idea to pack activated charcoal tablets as they’re great for tackling any unexpected stomach issues, and electrolytes to help you stay hydrated.
When it comes to mosquitoes in Thailand, it’s not just about the annoyance of itchy bites; there are health considerations too. While malaria is not a concern in most tourist areas (and definitely not on Koh Samui), dengue fever and Zika virus do pose risks. Both are quite unpleasant, and in the case of Zika virus, particularly concerning if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive. It’s worth doing your research and taking precautions.
As for repellents and anti-itch creams, it’s better to buy them once you’re in Thailand. Local products are tailored to the native mosquito species and are more effective. I keep seeing more and more devices like the Beurer BR60 Insect Sting and Bite Relief, Bug Bite Healer. I haven’t tested this myself, but I’ve met more than one traveller who swears by it. As for a natural and local option, you can find varieties of gels and rollers at local markets – and yes, they do work!
Refill, Recharge, Repeat
Thailand’s heat can be draining, so staying hydrated is key. Bring your own water bottle, whether it’s collapsible, insulated, or even equipped with a filter, as it’s not only eco-friendly but essential since tap water isn’t safe to drink. Refilling at designated water stations or in your hotel allows you to stay hydrated safely throughout your travels, without contributing to plastic waste. As mentioned already, it’s also a smart move to have a few electrolyte sachets on hand. Easily found in every 7-Eleven and pharmacy, they’re not something you need to pack, but they’re great for keeping with your water bottle for a quick energy and hydration boost.
Quick note here: ice is usually safe and can be consumed without worry. When in doubt, check the ice cube: if it has a hole in the middle, it’s been produced in a factory and is safe to consume.
Snacks from home can be a comfort, particularly on long travel days or for those times when local cuisine doesn’t appeal. Non-perishable items like your favourite energy bars and dried fruit can be lifesavers. Although again, many international brands and ‘western’ options are available at every 7-Eleven.
Depending on your planned activities, accommodation, and way of travel, you might find a foldable multi-tool handy. This was one of the items quite a few travellers mentioned as one of their must-haves or one thing you might not think of but should bring. From slicing fresh fruit on the beach, to eating pot noodles on the balcony, there’s definitely use for tools like this beyond camping trips.
Beach and Ocean Gear
If you’re planning to do a lot of snorkelling, consider bringing your own gear, mainly for comfort and hygiene. To avoid painful sunburns, always wear a long-sleeved UV guard during in-water activities and consider beach shoes to keep your feet safe from rocks and coral.
Some other items I would recommend bringing are quick-dry beach towels, a waterproof dry bag for your belongings, and a compact waterproof Bluetooth speaker for music on the go (or to play white noise for the little ones to help them settle in unfamiliar environments). A waterproof phone case is also a smart idea for those beach days, boat trips and even jungle tours – tropical rain storms and all that. Oh, and have you heard of cooling towels? I hadn’t until recently, but now they’re on my must-haves list.
Comfort Items
Let’s talk about those comfort essentials that can make all the difference on your way to and around Thailand. Long flights or bus rides can be tough, but don’t have to be. An inflatable travel pillow, noise-cancelling headphones, and a lightweight blanket can make your journey much more comfortable. While packing for the heat, it’s easy to forget how cold you can get during transport. Something warm that you can easily access in your hand luggage is a must. This is especially important if you’re travelling with kids, as they might be more sensitive to sudden changes in temperature.
5 Things to Leave Behind
Now that we’ve ticked off the must-haves for your Thailand trip, let’s look at what you can safely leave out. ‘Less is more’ isn’t just a catchy phrase – it’s your best packing strategy for Thailand. It’s easy to go overboard, but trust me, lugging around stuff you don’t need is no fun under the Thai sun.
Too many clothes
Thailand’s laid-back, tropical vibe means you can leave most of your wardrobe behind. Choose versatile and lightweight clothing that you can mix and match. Laundry services are cheap and readily available, so you can re-wear your favourites. Keep in mind that hotels often charge a lot more than the laundry service just around the corner. There are also many self-laundry options and even pickup services.
Shoes to Skip
Heavy boots are often unnecessary unless you’re planning serious trekking. The uneven roads and sandy beaches are also not the best terrain to wear high heels, so packing a pair of comfortable walking shoes and one or two pairs of sandals will be enough in most cases. If you’re contemplating packing flip-flops, just keep in mind that they’re the worst shoes to walk in with wet feet or over uneven terrain, and should not be worn when driving (be it a bike or a car). They can also be bought for super cheap in Thailand, so should you regret your choice of not bringing them, it’s a quick and cheap fix.
Illegal items
When it comes to what not to bring, drugs are a no-go, which might sound obvious. These include narcotics of any kind, even if prescribed elsewhere. Despite unofficial sales in tourist markets or on the streets, vapes, e-cigarettes and counterfeit goods, like fake designer clothing or electronics, are illegal in Thailand. This means you cannot import, sell, or possess them. Ignoring this law can lead to serious consequences, including fines, confiscation of the devices, or even jail time. Remember, respecting local laws and customs ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Unnecessary Toiletries
Save space and buy locally. Many known brands are available in Thailand, often (but not always!) at lower prices. This also includes kids’ items and nappies. While not all brands are available, there are many good options and considering how bulky they are, a clear item on the do-not-pack list. Of course, except for what you need during travel day and maybe for the first couple of days, giving you time to acclimatise and shop locally. You can find nappies, suncream and many other toiletries at every 7-Eleven or Tops Daily store. And those are pretty much at every corner in the touristy areas. There are also Watson Boots stores with an even wider selection of toiletries and Tops, Lotus’s and Big C for nappies (and pretty much everything else). One thing that can be tricky to find is tampons. Yes, you can find them, but not always and usually you only have one or two choices in small packets… My recommendation is to bring them.
As a general rule, it seems that the local mosquito repellents always work best. Among the hundreds of recommendations of fellow Samuians, there are two that stand out as being recommended the most: Soffell Mosquito Spray and OFF! Active Insect Repellent Spray. You can find them in pharmacies and at any 7-Eleven.
Useless electronics
Remember, appliances like hair dryers, steamers, and even electric toothbrushes often aren’t ‘dual voltage’, which means they can’t handle different electrical systems around the world. In Thailand, the standard voltage is 220 V. Here’s the key: check the specs of your devices before you fly to not let a useless appliance sneak into your suitcase! Most appliances have a label that tells you their voltage requirements. Look for something like ‘AC 110-240V’ – meaning it’s dual voltage and good to go. But if it just says something like ‘AC 120V’, using an adapter won’t work (and it can even damage your device!).
This is it from me, I truly hope this was helpful for you! If you’ve got some packing secrets or disasters to share, I’d love to hear them! Let’s make this whole packing business a bit more fun and a lot less stressful.
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A short disclaimer: This article includes some affiliate links. If you decide to buy through them, it supports me through a small commission at no extra cost to you, which I truly appreciate. But there’s more to these links than that – they’re carefully chosen to make your trip planning smoother and to give you reliable product options, based on real experiences.
