What I’d Actually Pack for a Trip to Thailand

Written By C S

I feel like I need everything plus +1 more because “why not?” and “what would one extra item really take up space-wise in my suitcase?” Answer: apparently enough space to require an entirely new suitcase.

Having traveled to Thailand pretty much every way possible — backpacking style, multiple large suitcases, and finally moving over for good — I want to help guide you on what I’d actually pack if I was going to Thailand for a 2–3 week trip.

And I’m sorry that this will be realistic for me (although my mom will still consider this overpacking) and not three large suitcases. But you can always take that route if needed. <3

You will sweat. Your hair will be frizzy. You will get wet.

I sweat. A lot. So having multiple options to change into throughout the day is important to me (if needed). I genuinely don't know how some of y’all don't sweat. It’s rude.

I would also shift your packing a bit depending on where you're going — Northern Thailand, the islands, Bangkok, etc. — but this is my general starting point.

Suitcases

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My general packing list would include:

Clothes

  • 3-4 dresses

  • 1 jumpsuit

  • 1 romper

  • 3 tops

  • 1 button up top (can use if chilly or for the beach as a cover up)

  • 2 pairs of shorts/skorts/skirts

  • 1-2 pairs of long pants or 1 pair of long pants + 1 maxi skirt

Temple outfit: Make sure at least one outfit covers your shoulders and knees. You don't need to pack something specifically for temples — you can easily build one from the pieces above.

A note if you're plus-size: I would strongly recommend bringing the clothes you already know fit and make you feel good. Plus-size clothing can be much harder to find outside of Bangkok, especially if you're looking for something specific. Thailand has plenty of shopping, but I wouldn't count on being able to replace your wardrobe once you get here (unless doing custom clothes)

  • 3-4 workout/athleisure outfits (leggings, shorts + my go-to, always — Lululemon high-neck Align tanks (s/o built-in bra)

  • 2-3 swimsuits

  • 1 light jacket or cardigan type

  • 1 t-shirt to sleep in or pajamas if needed

  • 10 pairs of underwear — I just can’t get past this

  • 7 pairs of socks — sorry, mom

  • 2 bras (a comfy mesh one + a sports bra)

  • Boob tape / pasties

Laundry services are widely available. You'll find self-serve laundromats in many areas, often around ~50 THB/load depending on the location, as well as drop-off services that charge by the kg. Hotels may also offer laundry services, so I wouldn't fret :)

Shoes

Now this is where I demonstrate personal growth:
3 pairs of shoes. That's it.

  • Cute Tevas for water activities + general walking

  • Birks for walking 10k steps

  • Tennis shoes are for workouts, hiking, or when my feet have simply had enough

Bags

  • 1 crossbody-type

    • I have this one and love it bc it matches with everything + holds everything I need

  • 1 tote-type

Misc

  • Sunglasses

  • Hair ties/claw clip

  • A bandana or small quick-dry towel

  • Medications in a travel container

  • Minimal jewelry

  • A light shawl (can also buy in TH for v cheap)

  • A small wet bag for dirty clothes or wet swimsuits :)

  • Packing cubes: they keep the chaos contained, compress, and make it much easier to separate clean clothes, dirty clothes, workout clothes, etc.

Electronics (You absolutely do not need all of these. This is just what I personally bring):

One important electronics note: Thailand uses ~220–230V electricity, so check your electronics before plugging them in. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage, but don't assume every appliance is. My US hair straightener works here, but definitely check yours before bringing it.

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush + toothpaste

  • Tongue scraper

  • Deodorant

  • Lotion

  • Sunscreen (I bring my own because many Thai sunscreens have brightening/whitening properties, which isn't necessarily what I'm looking for)

  • Shaving razor

  • Face products

  • Makeup (minimal)

  • THIS hair gel (my holy grail)

  • Baby powder and/or anti-chafing balm

Things I would NOT bring:

  • Reusable water bottle. Controversial, I know. I personally don't bring one because it's just another thing to carry when I'm usually buying bottled water anyway. If you're a ride or die water bottle owner, by any means necessary.

  • Heavy/thick clothing (unless you're specifically going somewhere cold. You will regret bringing thick denim, heavy sweaters, etc. the second you step outside and it will only take up more room in your suitcase)

Things I would buy when you arrive at our lord and savior 7-Eleven:

  • Shampoo/Conditioner

  • A small packet of tissues and/or wet wipes

  • Bug spray

  • A cheap, disposable rain poncho

  • A waterproof phone pouch / umbrella

  • Hand sanitizer

Depending on Your Trip:

Beach

Backpacking:

Bangkok/nicer evenings:

  • A pair of mule heels, nice sandals, pair of jeans (maybe), small evening bag

Northern Thailand / mountains

  • A couple of pieces you can layer if needed for more flexibility on cooler mornings and evenings. Depending on the season and elevation, Northern Thailand can be very different from sitting on a beach in the South.

LEAVE ROOM.

The goal is not to be a minimalist. The goal is to be a realistic, organized overpacker.

Thailand is not the middle of nowhere. You can buy things here. You can do laundry. You can replace something you forgot.

And you are going to buy something.

You came all the way to Thailand. It would be rude not to. ;)

C S
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