Written by Charlotte Lock
Posted, 15th September 2025
This Thailand packing list will make sure you know exactly what to pack for your trip, whether you’re joining a group tour or setting off on your own backpacking adventure.
Packed with dense jungles, hectic cities and tropical islands, Thailand’s vast variety of landscapes means you’ll need to be smart when choosing what to pack.
We run group tours in Thailand over 50 times a year, so we know exactly what to bring and what to leave behind.
To help you avoid overpacking (or forgetting something important), here’s a handy guide on what you should bring with you to Thailand for every type of traveller.
Let’s get into it!
What To Pack For Thailand
Whether you’re backpacking on a budget and strictly staying in hostels or joining a guided group tour, the right mix of clothing, travel gear, and practical extras is key to making your trip to Thailand a lot smoother.
Here’s a handy packing list breaking down everything you should make sure to pack for travelling across Thailand:
Thailand Travel Docs
Before you jump straight into thinking about your clothes and gadgets, you need to make sure your paperwork is in order…you won’t get too far without it!
Passport and driving licence: you’ll not make it too far without a passport when travelling to Thailand, you won’t even make it out of your home country! Make sure your passport is valid well in advance of your trip, with an expiry date at least six months after you depart from Sri Lanka. If you have a driving licence and are planning to rent any cars or scooters while travelling in Thailand then you’ll also want to have it on hand!
Prepaid travel or bank card: taking a prepaid card is a lot safer than carrying large amounts of cash around and helps you stick to a budget if you’re being more frugal. Designated travel cards often let you lift cash with better exchange rates too – cash is king in Thailand so try and get the best rate possible.
Travel insurance certificate: while it’s something you hope you’ll never need, travel insurance is an absolute must for travelling around Thailand. Make sure to have a copy of your travel insurance certificate with you in case you need it!
Flight e-tickets: saving copies of your boarding passes and flight confirmation emails directly to your phone gives easy access when travelling through the airport, allowing you to scan through the gates quickly and make your airport experience a whole lot smoother!
Visa (if required): one of the biggest document mistakes amongst travellers touching down in Thailand is having the incorrect visa or none at all. Make sure to double-check the entry requirements for your nationality before you go!
Printed copies: while it’s so easy to have all of the above saved to your phone, paper copies of them all can also come in handy if your phone dies or you run into a patch of dodgy signal or WiFi.
Toiletries For Thailand
Thailand’s heat, sun, and tropical bugs mean your toiletry bag might need a little extra thought. Pack the basics, but don’t overdo it – most things are available locally if you run out.
Here are the essentials you’ll need:
Aftersun cream or aloe vera gel: the Thai sun is very strong, and can catch you out even with a good suncream layer. Having a soothing gel on hand is essential to get some quick relief.
Toothbrush and toothpaste: while this one may be obvious, you’d be shocked at how many forget them in the rush to pack!
Bug spray and bite relief: mosquitoes are common in Thailand, especially in the evenings and around water. A strong repellent with ‘DEET’ is what you’re looking for to try and repel the pests as much as possible. A bite relief cream as a back-up will make your life a lot more comfortable.
Mosquitoes are especially common around jungles in Chiang Mai and near rivers in Khao Sok National Park.
Haircare products: the heat, humidity and constant seawater can take quite a toll on your hair, so packing good quality shampoo and conditioner is a good idea. If you’re set on saving space and avoiding leaks then you could also opt for a more eco-friendly shampoo bar!
Tampons, pads, or menstrual cup: menstrual products aren’t as widely available in Thailand and Asia in general as you might think, so it’s good to stock up on the essentials before you go! Reusable options like a cup can help you save the most space in your bag, but can be a bit of a hassle to clean up on the move.
Deodorant: the humidity in Thailand is no joke, so this is non-negotiable. You don’t want to be the one to stink up the hostel room!
Hand sanitiser: a bottle of hand sanitiser is perfect for street food stops, long bus rides, and anywhere sinks and soap aren’t easily available. Hygiene is super important while travelling around Thailand, especially when you’re eating!
Razor and shaving cream: not essential for everyone, but if you prefer shaving, bring your own, as options in Thailand can be limited and quite pricey in comparison.
But as we said, you can get all of these toiletries, like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc., from any 7-Eleven or Mini Mart throughout Thailand.
Clothing For Thailand
Packing clothes for Thailand is all about staying cool, comfortable, and prepared for a mix of activities. The climate is pretty hot and humid year-round, so lightweight, breathable fabrics are your best friend.
At the same time, you’ll want to plan for everything from lazy beach days to temple visits and long travel days.
Casual lightweight clothes: stick to breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials. These keep you cool in the tropical heat and dry quickly if you get caught in a rain shower or need to wash them.
Shorts and T-shirts/vests/tank tops: perfect for sightseeing, wandering markets, and general day-to-day wear. Quick-dry fabrics are a bonus if you’re moving around a lot or planning outdoor activities.
Long-sleeve shirt and pants: you also might want to bring some UV protective shirts to protect your skin from the strong Thai sun. The added bonus to long-sleeved shirts is that they protect you from bug bites.
A casual dress or two: a loose, lightweight dress is great for evenings out, restaurant dinners, or just when you want something easy to throw on. Maxi or midi dresses can also double up as temple-appropriate wear if they cover your knees and shoulders.
Comfy sleepwear: most budget accommodation and hostels have strong air-con, so lightweight but comfy sleepwear will keep you warm. Think cotton shorts and a T-shirt, or thin PJ sets.
Flip-flops or sandals: Thailand has a “shoes off” culture, especially when entering temples and some guesthouses or hostels, having slip-on shoes is very practical. Flip-flops are also essential for beach days and hostel showers.
Swimsuit or bikini: whether you’re diving in Koh Tao, island-hopping around the Phi Phi Islands, or just relaxing at the pool, you’ll use this a lot. Bringing two or three makes it easier to rotate while one is drying.
Gym wear: a set of breathable leggings, shorts, or tops is useful if you plan on hiking, joining yoga classes, or just want something comfy for long travel days.
Raincoat or poncho: tropical rainstorms can hit suddenly, especially during monsoon season (between May and October). A lightweight poncho that folds up small and can save you from getting soaked on a scooter or while exploring is a must!
A warm layer: it may sound strange in a hot country like Thailand, but overnight trains, long-distance buses, and even some cafes blast the air-con to keep customers happy. A light jumper, hoodie, or long-sleeved shirt makes these journeys far more comfortable.
Underwear and socks: bring enough to last you about a week, as laundry is cheap and widely available. If you get stuck you can always wash these items at the sink!
Temple attire: visiting temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun is a highlight of any trip to Thailand, but modesty is essential! Pack at least one outfit that covers your shoulders and knees. Lightweight long trousers, a maxi skirt, or a loose shirt work perfectly, and a scarf or sarong can double up as a cover-up if needed.
Travel Essentials For Thailand
While clothes and toiletries take up most of your packing space, it’s the little things that often make or break a smooth trip.
These essentials keep you organised, comfortable, and prepared for the hiccups of travelling in Thailand – from tropical weather and overnight journeys to lost luggage and hostel life.
AirTag (or similar tracker): nothing ruins the start of a trip faster than lost luggage. Having an AirTag (or other smart tracker) in your main bag means you’ll always know where it is, even if the airline doesn’t. It’s cheap peace of mind, especially if you’re flying through busy hubs like Bangkok!
Helpful travel apps: to help tackle travelling in Thailand, your smartphone needs to get a bit smarter! Some helpful apps to consider downloading include Google Maps for its offline download feature, an e-SIM app like Saily to keep you connected, WhatsApp to chat with international numbers for free and Google Translate to help navigate the more rural areas.
A good backpack or suitcase: the choice comes down to how you’re travelling. If you’re moving around a lot, staying in hostels, or hopping on buses and ferries, a backpack is easier to carry and less awkward for transporting. If you’re joining a guided group tour or mostly staying in cities, a small suitcase with wheels works fine. Just don’t go too big – you’ll regret having to haul it around cramped streets!
Packing cubes: packing cubes are simple but brilliant. They keep your clothes organised, make finding things quicker, and help you separate clean from dirty items. You’ll be grateful when you only need to pull out your “t-shirt cube” instead of digging through everything.
Small day bag or overnight bag: a small day bag for hikes, temple visits, or one-night trips, is great so that you won’t want to drag your big bag with you. A lightweight backpack or crossbody bag makes exploring easier and helps keep valuables close.
Hat and sunglasses: this sounds obvious, but the midday sun in Thailand can be brutal. A wide-brimmed hat or cap along with UV-protective sunglasses are lifesavers for long days outdoors.
Quick-dry beach towel: quick-dry beach towels are compact, lightweight, and fast-drying, this is a must for island-hopping, hostel stays, or impromptu swims. Traditional towels take forever to dry in the humidity, so a small roll-up microfibre one is much more practical.
Combination lock: if you’re staying in hostels, most have lockers but don’t provide locks. A sturdy combination lock also comes in handy for securing your backpack on overnight trains or buses.
Earplugs and eye mask: while you may not look the most glamorous, a good set of earplugs and an eye mask is absolutely essential. Thailand is full of noise, and air-conditioned buses and trains often keep the lights on. Having these on hand are a lifesaver when you can’t get to sleep. We recommend Loop Earplugs – they’re effective but also stylish, so you can wear them out too!
Power adapter: Thailand mostly uses Type C and Type O plugs (similar to Europe), but a universal adapter is the easiest solution. Try to get one that has USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once!
Power bank: long travel days are part of the Thailand travel experience, but they’re much easier when your phone doesn’t die halfway through. A good power bank means you can keep maps, entertainment, and translation apps at the ready.
Basic first aid kit: pharmacies are everywhere in Thailand, but it’s reassuring to have the basics on hand. Make sure to pack some plasters for blisters and cuts, some antiseptic cream to keep grazes clean and some painkillers.
Backpack rain cover: tropical rainstorms can soak your bag in minutes in Thailand, and nothing is worse than arriving at your hostel with wet clothes. A fitted rain cover is cheap, light, and saves you a lot of hassle drying clothes in the rainy season.
Dry bag or waterproof pouch: a space to keep your valuables dry is essential if you’re going kayaking in Khao Sok, taking boat trips in Phi Phi, or even joining in the Songkran water festival. They keep your belongings safe and dry no matter how wet things get!
Slip-on shoes or sandals: since you’ll be removing your footwear at temples (and sometimes guesthouses), easy slip-ons save you the hassle of untying laces every time.
Trainers: sturdy shoes are an absolute must for hikes and climbs like Tiger Cave Temple, Pai Canyon, or the Phi Phi viewpoint. Flip-flops won’t cut it – it’s not worth the broken ankle!
Reef-safe suncream: regular suncreams can harm coral reefs, so eco-friendly options are a much better option. However, they can be pretty pricey to buy in Thailand, so it’s worth bringing your own.
Beach cover-up: in some places (like the Phi Phi Islands), it’s respectful to cover up when you’re not actually on the beach. A lightweight dress, sarong, or shirt works well – anything that covers up your swimwear.
Mini travel fan: a small electric fan can be a lifesaver on stuffy buses, in busy markets, or in hostels without air-con. Nowadays, many are USB rechargeable, meaning you don’t need to worry about bringing a supply of batteries.
Electrolyte sachets: exploring in the heat means you’ll sweat more than usual. Electrolyte sachets to add to your drinks help you rehydrate quickly and are easy to pack away in your bag.
Light jacket or poncho: tropical downpours come fast in Thailand and can be pretty heavy, so a reusable rain jacket or poncho is a better option than constantly buying single-use ones on the road.
Extras
Fold-up tote bag: a reusable tote bag can come in super handy for carrying snacks, souvenirs, or laundry, and helps you avoid single-use plastic bags.
Light scarf or shawl: a scarf or shawl can double as a temple cover-up, makeshift blanket on buses, or even a beach wrap. If you pack one, you’ll definitely find yourself reaching for it during your travels.
Underwater camera or GoPro: a waterproof camera is perfect for snorkelling trips, diving, or capturing waterfall memories. If you don’t want to buy one, renting is also an option in the touristy areas.
Wet swimsuit bag: just like the dry bags for your valuables, a waterproof bag for your wet swimming gear is great to have on hand. Brands like Aloha offer sustainable, stylish pouches for keeping your wet items separate in your bags.
Travel journal: while not essential, we highly recommend taking a travel journal with you to Thailand. Jotting down where you stayed, who you met, and little details from each day helps preserve memories you’ll otherwise forget.
Things Not To Bring To Thailand
Thailand is well set up for travellers, so you don’t need to overpack. Many items are cheap, easy to find locally, and sometimes better purchased there.
Here’s a list of things you can safely leave at home:
Extra toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and even sunscreen can be bought almost anywhere. While they might not be the brands you’re used to, they’ll do for top-ups!
Heavy towels: accommodation like hostels, guesthouses, and hotels usually provide towels for showering. Pack a quick-dry one for the beach and hiking and skip on the bulky alternatives!
Excessive clothing: laundry is cheap and easy to find, so you don’t need to pack a new outfit for every day. Instead, pack items that suit many options allowing you to make lots of different outfits out of the same pieces.
Hairdryer: most hotels and guesthouses provide them, and if not, cheap ones can be bought locally. The voltage difference could also be disastrous for your hairdryer’s fuse, so it’s best to leave it at home!
Guidebooks: while they can be useful, your phone is really the only resource you need nowadays.
Fancy or expensive jewellery: it’s best to leave as many valuables at home as you can. Thailand is safe for tourists, but flashy accessories can attract unwanted attention.
How To Pack For Thailand
Packing for Thailand is all about balancing comfort and practicality. The country is hot, humid climate, sudden tropical rains, and a huge mix of cities, jungles, and beaches so to put it bluntly, you need to pack smart to tackle all of these bases.
Whether you’re backpacking and staying in hostels or joining a group tour, keeping your luggage light and organised will make your trip far more enjoyable.
Some of the biggest things to consider is to pack layers, multi-purpose items and travel-sized alternatives which will help you enjoy all of your bucket-list activities and tackle every issue you may run into.
Overpacking is a common issue among travellers – don’t fall into that trap! Thailand is full of convenience stores and markets where you can pick up pretty much anything you might have forgotten. Laundry is also very cheap and easy to do so there’s no need to shove in endless outfits!
Packing smart also includes considering your luggage itself. Backpacks are ideal for those moving frequently, while small suitcases are fine for group tours with fewer transfers.
Packing cubes, wet bags, and day packs keep everything organised and accessible, which is especially helpful on long bus or train journeys.
Thailand Packing Tips
Packing for Thailand is easier when you follow a few simple tips that keep your bag light, organised, and ready for anything.
- Pack lightweight and versatile clothing: choose breathable fabrics that dry quickly and can be layered. Packing more block coloured clothes allows you to mix and match and avoid having to pack outfits for every day of your trip.
- Use packing cubes and bags: keep clothes and accessories organised in packing cubes. They can also be used to separate clean and dirty laundry, and make finding things on the go faster and easier.
- Bring travel gear to make your life easier: items like a dry bag, travel-sized toiletries, and slip-on shoes will save time, money, and stress during your trip.
- Keep valuables safe and accessible: use a small day bag for daily essentials, and consider trackers like AirTags for luggage. There’s nothing worse than trying to track down a lost bag in a foreign country!
- Leave space for purchases: Thailand is full of markets, souvenirs, and local finds. Packing a bit lighter than your maximum capacity means you’ll have room for goodies without struggling to carry them home.
What To Pack For Thailand’s Rainy Season
If you’re visiting Thailand during the rainy season (roughly May to October), you’ll need to be ready for sudden, heavy downpours.
The rain often comes in short bursts, but it can be intense and humidity levels soar!
Lightweight, quick-drying clothes are your best friend, along with waterproof gear to keep your belongings safe.
A compact rain jacket or poncho is essential for exploring cities or hopping on scooters, while a dry bag and waterproof phone pouch will protect your electronics and valuables during boat trips or unexpected storms.
A microfibre towel and extra sets of socks/underwear also help if you get caught in the rain. Bug spray is also particularly important during this season, as mosquitos thrive in damp conditions!
What To Pack For Thailand’s Dry Season
Thailand’s dry season (between November to April) is the most popular time to visit, with hot days and clears skies. Since rainfall is less of a concern (especially in the south), your focus should be on staying cool and protected from the sun.
Pack breathable clothing like shorts, T-shirts, and loose dresses, as well as a good hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe suncream to handle the strong UV rays.
If you’re visiting during December or January, remember that northern Thailand (places like Chiang Mai and Pai) can get surprisingly chilly at night, so add a light jumper or hoodie to your bag.
Island-hopping and beach trips are especially popular in the dry season, so don’t forget swimwear, a beach cover-up, and a quick-dry towel.
The dry season is also a great time for trekking and spending lots of time outdoors, so a pair of comfortable trainers or hiking shoes will be well-needed.
Another top recommendation for ensuring you stay fit and healthy in the heat is to pack some electrolyte sachets so you don’t become dehydrated.
FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions related to packing for a trip to Thailand, along with our expert answers to each question.
Pack light, breathable clothes, modest temple attire, swimwear, toiletries, and essentials like a dry bag and power bank. Laundry is cheap, so focus on versatile outfits rather than overpacking! Don’t forget your essential documents like your passport and visa too!
Avoid bringing e-cigarettes, vapes, narcotics, counterfeit goods into Thailand to avoid trouble at customs. Some prescription medicines may also require permits, so always check official guidelines before travelling!
Yes, you can take teabags for personal use. Keep them sealed in original packaging. Tea available locally in Thailand, but having your favourite cuppa brand can be a comfort while travelling.
Wear lightweight sandals or flip-flops for beaches and everyday use. Easy slip-off shoes are also great for temple visits so that you can easily remove them. Make sure to also pack a pair of sturdy trainers for hikes and temple climbs!
Conclusion
There you have it – a complete Thailand packing list for your upcoming trip! Whether you’re heading there solo or joining us on one of our epic group tours, we’re sure you’ll have an amazing time!
Remember, overpacking is not necessary for Thailand. The country is so well set up for travellers that you can access plenty out there if you forget or run out of anything.
Trust us, you’ll want to leave some room in your bag for some souvenirs! And if you want to make loads of new memories and new friends in Thailand, make sure to join us on one of our group tours.
Whether you’re looking to travel solo or bring a friend along for the ride, our group tours in South East Asia & Australia are the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time & nightlife. You’ll arrive as strangers and leave as the best of friends.
Here are a few useful links to help with that planning;
👉🏼 View all Trips
👉🏼 Frequently Asked Questions
👉🏼 Check out our Reviews
👉🏼 Why choose us?
👉🏼 How does it all work?
If you’ve got any burning questions or just need a little travel inspo… jump in the DM’s with the team via either Whatsapp, Livechat or Instagram.
