How to Pack for Your Vacation to Bangkok

Planning to embark on a trip of a lifetime to Bangkok but unaware of what to take with you? Here’s a guide with a list of things you need to pack for a hassle-free and eventful trip to the most vibrant city in Thailand. 

Vacation Packing - Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash 

What to wear?

Despite Bangkok being widely depicted as an entertainment-centred tourist destination with its vibrant nightlife by the majority of the media outlets, Thai culture is modest. Staying more covered and dressing fairly conservatively could reward you in many ways. Hence, travellers need to strike a good balance between dressing modestly and choosing comfortable clothing. Wearing linen or loose-fitting clothes could be a good option. You could also opt for performance clothing or apparel that is made of quick-drying materials both of which can keep you cool and comfortable. On the flip side, try to avoid clothing that is made with polyester and any hard materials such as jeans or denim.

When considering footwear, you’ll need to bring along a comfortable pair of sandals, at least two sneakers and flip-flops so you can explore the city comfortably whenever you need to walk. 

PS: Modest clothing is compulsory when you are visiting temples and you should remove your footwear before entering them. 

Sunscreen 

Sunlight can be a bit unforgiving during the dry season which spans from November to May. During these months you would want to consider wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when heading outdoors. 

PS: If you are planning to go swimming in the ocean, make sure that your sunscreen is reef-safe. 

Mosquito repellent 

Mosquitos thrive in tropical climates hence you would want to use Mosquito repellent cream when you are in Bangkok. In Bangkok, you can find mosquito repellent products in many forms such as cream, spray and even in the form of a bracelet. If you are wearing sunscreen the right way to apply a mosquito repellent cream should be: first apply the sunscreen, wait for 15-20 minutes and then apply the mosquito repellent. 

Sunglasses and Hats 

A good pair of Polaroid glasses are a must when In Bangkok due to its equatorial location where the sunlight can be very strong. Also, make sure that your glasses fully cover your vision and do not have any gaps where the light could bleen into your vision. In addition to the glasses, it is recommended that you wear a wide-brimmed hat too. This would come in handy when you are sunbathing by the pool at your resort or if you are heading to the beach. 

Travel Adapters 

If you are using British or Australian adapters, you will need a new one for your trip. Thailand adapters are of two kinds - 1. North American with flat blades and European with round pins. 

Non-essential accessories 

A DSLR Camera 

If you are into street photography or a shutterbug in general, bring along a DSLR or a Point-and-shoot camera for some cool new shots. The streets and neighbourhoods in Bangkok never cease to amaze you. 

Phone Accessories 

If you are planning to take your trip pictures primarily through your phone camera a selfie stick might come in handy. You could also need to bring a power bank just in case. 

Basic toiletries 

Even though you get free amenities and toiletries if you book your stay at a serviced residence in Bangkok the likes of Somerset Rama 9, it is always good to bring your own. A new set of toothbrushes (at least two) toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel or any other items that you might need to carry out your hygiene routine are necessary to stay and look fresh when you are here. 

Having a memorable time in Bangkok 

Even though this list highlights a variety of items that are necessary for a hassle-free travel experience, you could always add or subtract the items in the list based on your needs and preferences. However, taking these items would indeed be beneficial for you to enjoy a relaxing time free of unnecessary hassles.