The Ultimate Thailand Packing List

There are few places on earth with more to experience for every type of traveler than vibrant Thailand. As I am part-Thai myself I might be just a bit biased, but there’s no arguing with the country’s lush jungles, crystal-clear waters, bustling cities and exciting annual festivals. Adding to the excitement of Thailand, though, is its unpredictable weather, so knowing what to pack can make all the difference between a smooth, enjoyable journey and one filled with hiccups. 

My top recommendation is prioritizing versatile items that are loose and comfortable, as nobody wants to get caught in a rainstorm (or on a bright sunny afternoon) in skinny jeans or a tight skirt. Tida Harnpanpongse, Public Relations Manager for the Tourism Authority of Thailand, also suggests considering a few unexpected items to bring from home, rather than purchasing them upon your arrival as they may not be as easy to find. “Make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to hit the beach, as it's not widely available in local shops. Certain chemicals in sunscreen can harm or even kill the coral reef. The fishes will thank you for it!,” she says. She also recommends bringing some practical items from home such as Ziploc bags to store valuables, “as you never know when mother nature decides to bless you with the rain and rainbows.”

Clothing

When packing for a trip to Thailand, consider the country's tropical climate, which is hot and humid year-round, with around half the year experiencing near-daily rainfall. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for staying cool and comfortable, and loose-fitting clothes will help you avoid overheating and allow for better airflow. Include light-colored clothing to reflect the sun and reduce heat absorption. 

“Pack light, airy, loose fitting and quick-drying clothes to help keep you feeling fresh throughout the day from Bangkok to the beach and beyond,” says Harnpanpongse. “Prioritize clothes that can easily mix and match to create different looks that don't take up space in your luggage, especially if you plan to travel around Thailand via budget airlines as these flights don't include check-in luggage. Cotton usually works best for Thailand's tropical climate but if you forgot to pack some, you can always buy an iconic Thai elephant pant (Bruno Mars' approved) from one of Thailand's many night markets!”

A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses are essential for shielding yourself from the strong sun. Packing a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated in the heat, as well. And don't forget swimwear for the beautiful beaches and island hopping.

During Thailand's rainy season, which typically spans from May to October, you’ll thank yourself for packing a lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho, especially in regions like Krabi or Koh Phi Phi where rain can be more frequent. Quick-dry clothing can be a lifesaver during these times. For visiting temples and other cultural sites, remember that modest attire is required. You’ll want to make sure to bring clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, which is where light, versatile packing items like a sarong come in. 

On past trips to Thailand I’ve also been glad to have brought clothing items that can be worn from day to night. These include pieces that have enough polish that I don’t feel uncomfortable sitting down to eat at a nicer restaurant, but that aren’t so constricting that I wouldn’t wear them while exploring downtown Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai during the afternoon. Finally, Harnpanpongse suggests packing just a couple pieces of evening clothes that you can rewear throughout your trip.

Clothing for Women

Best Shorts

Quince 100% European Linen High Waisted Short

View on Quince.com

The key to packing for any trip is building a capsule wardrobe that you can mix and match endlessly, and a solid pair of shorts is a no-brainer addition. Make sure to pick a quality linen pair, like these ones from Quince. Super affordable and available in several colors, they are also breezy and lightweight, so you can easily pull them on for all sorts of adventures during your trip. We love that the top is elastic rather than buttoned, too, so you won’t feel constricted or constrained while filling up on street food.

Best Swimsuit

Monday Swimwear Sausalito One Piece

View on Mondayswimwear.com

We love a piece that does double duty, and this classic one-piece suit by Monday Swimwear can work both in the waves or as a bodysuit, providing optimal functionality while also making you look snatched. The high-quality, durable fabric withstands saltwater and sun exposure, essential for Thailand's tropical climate, and it’s available in over 10 different colors and prints. Another plus? It offers underbust support and has easily adjustable straps, providing comfort and versatility for all your activities, from snorkeling to boating and more. Its classic scoop neck cut effortlessly transitions from beachwear to a stylish outfit when paired with a sarong or shorts, making it a versatile choice.

Best Sarong

Monday Swimwear St. Tropez Sarong

View on Mondayswimwear.com

A sarong in Thailand is a must, even if you have no plans to hit the beach. Many temples require your body to be covered as a show of respect and modesty, and a versatile sarong can be easily wrapped around your waist to cover your legs or draped over your shoulders. It’s another double-duty hitter if you are going to be spending time on the shore, and this lightweight linen sarong looks chic when tied around your waist. We love that when paired with a one-piece, it can give the polished appearance of a midi dress, making it just as easy to wear by the pool or on a stroll around town. 

Best T-shirt

Leset “The Margo”

$78 at Shopbop.com

Women’s tees often tend to be frustratingly form-fitting. Especially in the sweltering heat of tropical Thailand, a breezy tee that doesn’t stick to your body is a packing staple. This version by Leset is a dream, hitting the perfect balance between boxy and fitted, with a hemline that is flattering to wear with nicer pants but not so cropped that you can’t tuck them into a pair of linen shorts for a casual afternoon out. We love that it's made completely from cotton, so it won’t shrink in the wash, and provides the breathability we need in high temps. 

Best Nice Top

Banana Republic Cotton Wrap Crop Top

View on Gap.com

Buying new items for a trip is nothing new (pun intended), but that doesn’t mean we can’t be intentional about picking pieces that will also fit well into our everyday wardrobe. This cropped wrap top by Banana Republic is a prime example. It’s perfect for pairing with wide-legged pants or a flowing skirt for a breezy-but-fancy dinner on the coast in Phuket; matched with shorts while wandering through the rice paddies; or combined with jeans back at home. We love the idea of snapping one up in classic black or white and another in bright green. 

Best Casual Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch Squareneck Vest Mini Dress

View on Abercrombie.com

Casual and classy at the same time, this dress from A&F is a great piece to throw on for an afternoon spent exploring the neighborhoods of Bangkok, or strolling around the market in Chiang Mai. We love that its structural yet breezy construction makes it work for day-to-night as well, so you won’t feel out of place ducking into a nicer restaurant or cocktail bar. A square neckline and button-down front are right on trend, but are also sure not to go out of style any time soon — a plus for your wallet and the environment.

Best Layering Item

Free People Juliet Kimono

$78 at Freepeople.com

Most instances that call for a layering item might mean throwing on a light jacket, but a trip to Thailand requires something a little more lightweight. This kimono by Free People is just the ticket, with a tiered design and a light, fluffy fabric that you can throw over anything. Drape it over a loose pair of pants and a tank before marveling at Wat Arun, or over your bikini as you stroll the shores of Koh Samui as the sun sets. 

Clothing for Men

Best Shorts

Alex Mill Irving Shorts

View on Alexmill.com

No need for stiff chinos on a trip to Thailand. These relaxed fit shorts by Alex Mill are made from a washed nylon that’s perfect for balmy weather and works for everything from a walk around town (in one of their fun colors like blue or red) to dinner that night (perhaps in black). We love the balance they strike between casual and polished, and the 7-inch length of the shorts’ inseam ensures that it will hit well on the thigh. 

Best T-shirt

UNIQLO Dry Crew Neck Short-Sleeve Shirt

View on Uniqlo.com

Quick-drying clothing is a necessity on any trip to Thailand, whether you’re putting your shirt back on after an afternoon spent at the beach, you’ve just completed a hike, or really any time you simply stepped outside for more than a few minutes in the extreme humidity. This trusty tee by Uniqlo incorporates the comfortable feel of cotton with quick-drying technology combined with a polyester lining, meaning you won’t be (as) drenched as you would be if you were simply wearing a normal T-shirt. 

Best Button-down

Abercrombie & Fitch Linen Button Down

View on Abercrombie.com

A good linen button-down is one of the most versatile items in a man’s travel wardrobe, and can serve a multitude of purposes on a trip to Thailand. This one from Abercrombie & Fitch is the perfect affordable staple, available in multiple colors and made from 100 percent soft linen fabric. Roll up the sleeves for an effortless look paired with shorts after the beach, or under a light blazer for a nicer dinner look. 

Best Pants

Perry Ellis Linen Drawstring Pants

$90 $43 at Amazon $63 at Macy's

Just like a nice linen shirt, pants crafted from the same material are easy to wear at any point on a trip to Thailand. These ones by Perry Ellis are made from 100 percent linen, making them breathable and lightweight — perfect for sunny afternoons or warm, humid evenings. We love that the drawstring design makes them comfortable, even after a big dinner full of Thai delicacies.

Best Swimsuit

Tyhengta Men’s Swim Trunks

$22 $19 at Amazon

The days of men’s swim trunks so long that they could practically be called capris are (thankfully) behind us, replaced by options that hit at the thigh and don’t take an hour to dry. This affordable pair is the perfect length in our opinion, and comes in a wide plethora of color options, from classic black or army green to tropical prints and more. Zipper pockets and a style-forward design make them ideal for pulling on outside of the beach, too, as their quick-dry material is great for hiking and other outdoor activities.  

Shoes

When it comes to bulky (but necessary) packing items like shoes, you’ll want to prioritize options that give you the most bang for your buck. Pairs that are attractive enough to wear to dinner yet provide you with long-lasting comfort are what you should be looking for. Another aspect to consider is Thailand’s humid, tropical climate, which makes things like leather boots, anything fur-lined, or super insulated hiking shoes less than ideal choices. 

Instead, try to pack versatile options, considering pairs that are podiatrist-recommended for long wear. Your feet will thank you later when you aren’t limping around the temples of Chiang Rai, or getting blisters on a hike through Khao Yai National Park. Another consideration, especially for hiking shoes, are options that are quick-drying, since nobody likes having soggy feet, and Thailand is known for sudden bouts of rain, especially from the months of May through October. 

Best Versatile Shoes for Women

Frankie4 Hunter Sandals

View on Frankie4.com

Podiatrist-approved shoes have rarely been seen as being sexy and stylish. Luckily, these cute leather sandals from women-owned Australian brand Frankie4 break the mold — made with specialized footbeds with three layers of support for your arches and heels. Anyone traveling to Thailand will soon realize just how many steps you put in every day, considering there’s just so much to see and do, and this pair of versatile sandals will help you avoid sweaty feet without making you limp after a few hours on your feet. 

Best Versatile Shoes for Men

Vionic Men's Wander Wyatt Flip-Flop

$80 $51 at Amazon View on Famousfootwear.com

We tested over 100 different pairs of men’s sandals over the course of six months, and these arch-supportive sandals rose to the top. They earned our highest recommendation thanks to a podiatrist-designed footbed that proved to be durable, and a smart design that prevented them from flying off while in mid stride. It also helps that their classic look will match with pretty much any casual outfit you might be rocking on your trip to Thailand. Rest assured, their supportive arches will keep you on your feet all day without pain. 

Best Closed-toe Shoes for Women

Hoka Transport GTX

$175 $140 at Hoka.com

When it comes time to hit the trails during your trip to Thailand, sandals just aren’t going to cut it. This is where a reliable, not-too-heavy walking shoe comes in. Whether you're navigating the lush, challenging paths of Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak, or exploring the waterfall trails of Erawan National Park, we know we can depend on this pair of hardy walking shoes by Hoka. 

Their Gore-Tex technology ensures quick drying in the case of a sudden tropical downpours, while the cushioned midsole provides shock absorption on rocky terrain. The Vibram Megagrip outsole also offers a great amount of traction, making these perfect for the slippery trails of Khao Sok National Park.

Best Closed-toe Shoes for Men

Merrell Men’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoes

$120 $110 at Amazon $100 at REI $120 at Backcountry

Designed with sustainability in mind, these shoes feature recycled materials, making them a conscientious choice for environmentally-aware travelers. The lightweight design ensures that they won't weigh you down during long hikes through Thailand's diverse landscapes, from dense jungles to mountainous terrains. 

Their superior traction provides stability on slippery surfaces, crucial for navigating the country's often wet and uneven paths. Additionally, the breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool in Thailand's tropical climate, preventing discomfort during extended outdoor activities. Overall, the Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoes offer the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and sustainability for any adventure in Thailand.

Bags and Accessories

From exploring bustling markets in Bangkok to island-hopping adventures in Koh Samui, having the right gear is essential for convenience and comfort. Choosing the right carry-on luggage, one with versatile storage and durability, is key. For some great options and to learn more about which bag is best for your needs, check out our list of tested and reviewed carry-ons. Additionally, consider packing a lightweight daypack or crossbody bag for daily excursions, that will allow you to comfortably carry items like a water bottle, sunscreen, and a rain poncho, which is crucial during Thailand's rainy season from May to October.

Accessories also play a vital role when it comes to enjoying your time in Thailand, where protection from the sun and unexpected rain showers is essential. Invest in a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses to shield yourself from the intense sunlight and ensure comfort while exploring outdoor attractions such as the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya or the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak. 

A waterproof phone case or dry bag is also beneficial for safeguarding electronics and valuables during beach outings or boat trips around Krabi's stunning limestone cliffs. Stay organized with packing cubes or travel organizers to maximize space and keep belongings secure throughout your journey. With these essential bags and accessories in tow, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy all that Thailand has to offer, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders, with ease and style.

Best Sunglasses for Men

Quince Maldives Polarized Sunglasses

View on Quince.com

A trip to Thailand will hopefully mean sunny skies for miles, and it often does, even after a quick torrential downpour. Polarized sunglasses, like this smart pair by Quince, feature special lenses that reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water, roads, and sand, making your vision more crisp and comfortable. Polarized lenses are especially important in a place like Thailand, where the sun’s rays can be intense, and activities often involve being near water or in bright, open areas. The acetate frame feels high-quality and durable, making them perfect for adventures, from lounging on Phuket’s beaches to exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok. 

Best Sunglasses for Women

Krewe Rampart Fold

View on Krewe.com

This compact pair of sunnies also features polarized lenses, which provide glare reduction — essential for protecting your eyes from the intense tropical sun and reflective surfaces, such as water and sand. The difference is their slimmer frame, which doesn’t overwhelm smaller faces, as well as their unique folding design, which offers compact portability, making them easy to store in a small bag when not in use. A trip to Thailand can be overwhelming for the senses (in the best possible way) so a folding design is ideal while navigating bustling cities. The 18-karat gold-plated details make them feel super luxe, while the stainless steel frames ensure durability and a lightweight feel. 

Best Crossbody Bag

EVGLOW Small Nylon Crossbody Bag

$15 at Amazon

A crossbody bag is a great staple piece for any traveler — providing lightweight storage on the go that is also secured to the body to prevent theft. This budget-friendly option on Amazon is an easy choice thanks to its minimalist design, adjustable shoulder strap, and versatility. Its compact size makes it perfect for carrying daily essentials such as a wallet, phone, passport, and other small items, while still being comfortable to wear during long days of visiting temples and scouring markets. The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit, and its nylon construction is water-resistant (perfect for Thailand’s unpredictable weather). 

Best Waist Bag

Alo Explorer Fanny Pack

$94 at Aloyoga.com

When it comes to security, it’s hard to beat a waist bag, which sits snugly on your body. Waist bags, or fanny packs, keep your most important items safe while also making them easy to reach for at any time — whether you’re grabbing your passport and boarding pass at the airport, or reaching for some Thai baht for a beautiful new sarong. We love the smart design of this one by Alo, which features an adjustable waist strap that unclips, making it quick and easy to put on or take off. Water-resistant nylon, like the bag above, keeps your valuables dry, and two exterior and one interior zip pockets can be used to organize your belongings. 

Best Large Bag

Polène Cyme Bag

$430 at Polene-paris.com

Who says a tote bag has to be boring? This large leather bag by French brand Polene fits a ton, including beach necessities like books, a camera, and a water bottle while spending a day away from your hotel in the city. Its removable zippered pouch is great for stowing your valuables, while the high-quality leather construction ensures durability and a sophisticated look, whether you’re getting dinner on the town or taking photos at the beach. We love its sculptural look, as well as its multiple strap options so you can carry it on your shoulder, in your hand, or in the crook of your arm. 

Best Sun Hat

Avenue Izzy Sunhat

View on Avenuethelabel.com

A sun hat keeps the blaring Thai sun out of your eyes, protects your face from burning, and looks stylish all the while. This one by Aussie brand Avenue is made of 100 percent raffia, with a stylish, structured look that also allows for it to be rolled up for compact packing. We love that it looks great with the wide brim flipped both up or down, and that its interior features an adjustable sweatband. 

Best Gear

When thinking about the necessary gear to bring on your trip to Thailand (non-clothing items), consider the climate you’re entering and the activities you’ll be participating in. Whether you're exploring the vibrant culture of Bangkok, hiking through the mountains of Chiang Mai, or lounging on the beaches of Phuket, having the right equipment can make your travel experience feel so much more seamless, and help you navigate the potential challenges of Thailand's temperamental climate. 

Consider items that are versatile, lightweight, and durable, prioritizing essentials like sun protection. A reliable bug spray with natural ingredients can protect you from mosquitoes that may carry diseases, a portable power bank will ensure your devices stay charged throughout your journey, and a handy travel-sized fan can provide relief from the tropical heat. 

Best Sunscreen

Vichy Minéral 89 Sunscreen SPF 30

View on Vichyusa.com $32 at Ulta

The UV levels are no joke in Thailand, and we’re not just talking about at the beach. Wearing SPF on your face (and neck) helps prevent burning and skin cancer, and this version by Vichy also provides helpful hydration. Formulated with mineralizing thermal water and hyaluronic acid, it not only provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection (which blocks about 97 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays) but it also moisturizes your skin barrier — crucial in Thailand's hot and humid climate. 

Best Rain Poncho

COOY Pack of 2 Reusable Rain Ponchos

$13 at Amazon

Packing a rain poncho is crucial for a trip to Thailand due to the country's unpredictable weather patterns. Take it from someone who has forgotten to bring a packable rain poncho on a trip to Thailand, and ended up looking like a bedraggled rat on multiple occasions. This two-pack at Amazon offers a great option thanks to its lightweight and compact design, perfect for carrying in a daypack and keeping handy during outdoor activities. We love that the two-pack means rain protection for yourself and a travel companion, and that they are made from durable and waterproof material that can be used multiple times. Plus, they are not bright yellow and enormous in size. 

Best External Battery

Anker Power Bank Battery Pack

$42 at Amazon

Finding out your phone is on low battery while in the middle of an adventure can put a real (and dangerous) dampener on your travels, which is why a portable battery pack is a must-have packing item. This one by Anker boasts a powerful 20,000mAh capacity, able to charge your smartphone multiple times and ensure you stay connected throughout long days of exploring Thailand's vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. You can use it to charge smartphones, tablets, and even small laptops, making it a versatile companion while you’re on the go. Bonus: its dual USB ports allow you to charge two devices simultaneously, perfect for if you have multiple gadgets to charge, or your travel buddy is low on juice, too.

Best Travel Towel

SunnyLife Twin Beach Towel 2-in-1 Tote Bag

$120 $60 at Shopbop.com $120 at Revolve View on Tnuck.com

The ultimate beach accessory, this travel towel by SunnyLife can be folded into a functioning tote bag — perfect for breezy beach days on your trip to Thailand. It features an attractive stripe design and is made from 100 percent cotton, meaning it won’t shrink in the wash or irritate skin when you’re laying on it. Its handy design allows it to do double duty, providing you with a foldable bag to stow your sunscreen, phone and more inside, and then lay it out on the sand. It’s quick-drying, too, so it won’t be soggy when you’re packing it back up. 

Best Portable Fan

Gaiatop Mini Portable Fan, Powerful Handheld Fan, Cute Design

$9 at Amazon

One of the smallest, most affordable upgrades you can invest in for your trip to Thailand is a handheld fan. Pop one into your fanny pack or tote bag to pull out when the sweat is dripping off yours and your travel companions’ foreheads for a bit of instant relief. This one costs less than $10 on Amazon, and boasts a high-speed motor and three adjustable speed settings. The USB rechargeable battery provides long-lasting use, and a detachable base means it can be used hands-free on a table or desk. If you’re looking for more options, like a wearable fan or one that is perfect for camping, you can also check out our full list of favorites.

Best Bug Repellent

Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray Plant-Powered Mosquito Repellent

$13 $12 at Amazon $12 at Target $11 at Walmart

If you aren’t one of the lucky few blessed with blood that mosquitoes don’t flock to, a reliable bottle of bug repellent will be an absolute must-pack on a trip to tropical Thailand, especially considering mosquitoes can carry diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Unlike DEET-based repellents, which can cause skin irritation and other health concerns, this spray by Badger uses organic ingredients like citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass essential oils, which provide strong protection against insects without being smelly and exposing you to harmful chemicals. Their spray is also free from synthetic fragrances and parabens, making it gentle on the skin and okay to use on the little ones. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take a suitcase or a backpack to Thailand?

Choosing between a suitcase or a backpack for a trip to Thailand depends on your travel style and the duration of your plans. If you're visiting a big city like Bangkok, have plans for fancier dinners, or are staying in the country for more than a few days, a suitcase can be more convenient to pack everything you might need for an enjoyable trip. This is especially true if you plan on staying in hotels or resorts, where the staff will be more than willing to help with your luggage. However, if you plan to explore rural areas, islands, or engage in activities like trekking, a backpack may be more practical due to its portability and ease of carrying. For help picking the best travel backpack for your trip to Thailand, check out our list of the best. 

Can you wear shorts in Thailand?

Yes, you can definitely wear shorts in Thailand. In fact, we recommend bringing a good pair of breathable shorts, especially if you are planning a trip south to Phuket, Ko Samui, or another island. Opt for lightweight and loose pairs to stay cool and comfortable in the tropical climate, choosing fabric such as linen or cotton. However, keep in mind that you might need to cover up when visiting temples or more formal settings where modest attire might be more appropriate. If you plan on visiting a temple on a day you have chosen to wear shorts, simply pack a sarong or wrap in your bag to have on hand. 

Should I pack differently depending on the time of year I’m planning to visit?

Yes, you should pack according to which season you plan to travel during, considering whether it will be the dry or wet season in Thailand. During the dry season (November to February), make sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing such as shorts, T-shirts, and dresses, along with a light layer for cooler evenings, and plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses for sun protection. For the wet season (June to October) prioritize quick-drying clothes, waterproof jackets, and sturdy waterproof footwear to handle frequent rain showers. Also, don’t forget a packable rain poncho, insect repellent, and water-resistant bags for valuables.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Austa Somvichian-Clausen is an experienced travel and hospitality journalist who has traveled to Thailand multiple times, both for work and pleasure (and to visit her family). Besides considering her own personal experience in the country, she spent hours researching the best items to bring along for a trip to beautiful Thailand. Austa also received expert advice from Tida Harnpanpongse, Public Relations Manager for the Tourism Authority of Thailand - New York, who she has also traveled to Phuket with personally. 

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