Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, it’s important to be prepared for a big trip. Knowing what to pack for Thailand is key to having a successful and enjoyable family vacation.
We traveled around Thailand as a family of 5, and now we’re sharing the must-have items you need to pack for your trip to Thailand. From essentials in toiletries to clothing and technology, we’ll provide a comprehensive list of items that will help you have a comfortable and memorable experience with your family!
What to Pack for Thailand
Must Have Documents
When it comes to traveling to Thailand, having the right documents with you is absolutely crucial. So before you set out on your adventure, make sure you have these essential documents packed and ready to go.
- Valid passports: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Thailand. It’s always a good idea to make copies of your passport as well, just in case you misplace it while you’re traveling.
- Printed copy of your travel itinerary and any hotel reservations: This will help you navigate through customs and immigration more smoothly.
- A good travel insurance policy: While it’s not required, having travel insurance can give you peace of mind in case of the unexpected, like illness or theft.
Toiletries and OTC Medication
Our “just in case bag” is always an essential, no matter what adventure we’re heading out on. You can get the full list of what I put in our just in case bag here and also get tips on finding the right just in case bag for you. Here are a few more things you might want to consider taking to Thailand:
- Activated charcoal: Hopefully you won’t get sick on your trip, and you probably won’t if you are careful with food and water sources. This is great to have just in case to prevent dreaded symtoms of an upset stomach!
- Electrolytes: If you do get sick, it can be rough to recover. Electrolytes can help get you back on your feet quickly.
- Mosquito repellant & afterbite: Mosquitoes are definitely an issues in the hot and humid climate of Thailand. Repellant and afterbite are essential, especially when you’re traveling with kids.
- Travel blow dryer
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Feminine products
You can use travel credit cards to earn points towards flights, accommodations and more. Learn more about our top 6 favorite travel credit cards here!
Miscellaneous Essentials
- Water bottle with filter: This is very handy to have if you don’t want to buy bottled water everywhere you go. Just make sure your water bottle has a high quality filter!
- Windproof compact travel umbrella: Rain is likely any time of year in Thailand and even more so in rainy season (July-October).
- Water shoes: These are great for hiking and playing in and around the beautiful waterfalls in Thailand. They dry out quickly and keep your feet light and comfortable.
- Waterproof travel backpack: We use our backpacks as carry-ons and then they can be used for carrying the essentials while you are out exploring.
- Universal waterproof phone case: There is so many water activities to enjoy in Thailand, you’ll want to be able to keep your phone safe and still be able to use it.
- Quick dry travel towel: These are great for hiking to waterfalls and other activities involving water! They’re compact and dry out fast so you can stick them back in your bag.
- Ear plugs and sleep mask: Thailand is a lively city, you may need to take extra steps to make sure you get the best sleep possible for your adventures.
Kid Stuff
- Travel stroller: It’s super helpful to be able to take a stroller with you for long trips, especially when there’s a lot of walking involved. Having a lightweight, folding stroller will be well worth it.
- Baby carrier: If you have a baby, a baby carrier is a better option for thailand than a stroller when you’re sightseeing and on the go. Walking with stroller might be more challenging with uneven paths and unpaved
- Travel Headphones: These will come in handy in so many situations while traveling.
Clothing
When it comes to packing clothes for Thailand, the number one thing you have to remember is to keep your clothing lightweight. Thailand has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round. If you end up there during the rainy season (july-october), the humidity will be very high. I cannot express enough that breathable clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable is so important! It’s also a good idea to bring a capsule wardrobe, or a lot of items you can mix and match.
Shirts and Tops
Pack plenty of loose-fitting, lightweight shirts. T-shirts, tank tops, and short-sleeve shirts are all great options. It’s also a good idea to pack a few long-sleeve shirts or lightweight sweaters for cooler evenings.
Men’s Lightweight Casual Shirt
Temple Clothing
I made this its own section because if you plan on visiting any temples, you’ll need to be sure you have appropriate clothing. Nothing fancy required, just more modest than you might be wearing on a day out in the hot Thailand weather. Pack a light, loose-fitting long sleeve shirt that you can toss in your backpack or tie around your waist for the rest of the day.
Bottoms
For bottoms, pack a mix of shorts, skirts, and lightweight pants. Remember, breathable and quick-drying fabrics! I would one hundred percent avoid packing jean shorts, skirts, or pants. Shorts and skirts are great for the hot weather and lightweight pants will protect your legs from the sun and mosquitoes.
Shoes
Sandals are ideal for this trip! Tevas and crocs are great options because they’re good for walking and getting wet. Almost everyone you see will be wearing sandals everywhere, even nicer sandals for dinner.
Swimwear
Thailand has stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters and your hotel might have a pool, so don’t forget your swimsuit and swimshirts if you want to be able to block some sun later in your trip.
Accessories
Pack a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun even more than sunscreen while you’re exploring Thailand. You’ll be glad you have these once you’ve spent a few days in the sun.
Did you know you can book flights for FREE? We flew to Paris as a family of 5 for just $18! Learn the exact step-by-step instructions of how we did it here.
Technology and Other Useful Gadgets
- Thailand power adapter: Thailand uses Type A, B, C, and O electrical outlets, so make sure to bring an adapter that will work with your electronic devices.
- Portable charger: Just a little bigger than a lipstick, these chargers are a life saver during travel.
- Underwater camera: Our GoPro has been such a great addition to the way we capture our family memories. This especially comes in handy when you’re snorkeling and kayaking.
- Noise cancelling headphones: These are absolute game changers when you’re on a plane or working in public areas.
