Travelling to Thailand promises adventure, breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences. We have put together a comprehensive packing list for Thailand so that you are well prepared. It will help you to pack exactly what you need without taking any unnecessary baggage with you. With the right items of clothing, useful travel essentials and the most important documents, you can make sure that you don't forget anything important and can enjoy your time in Thailand without any worries.
The right luggage for your trip to Thailand
The right piece of luggage plays a crucial role in a successful trip to Thailand. Whether you choose a backpack or a classic suitcase should depend on how exactly you are planning your trip through Southeast Asia. If you're planning to do a lot of travelling, flexible island hopping and frequent changes of accommodation, a practical and spacious backpack is the better choice. For longer trips, on the other hand, a conventional suitcase can also be a convenient option.
Backpacking - which rucksack should I choose?
If you decide to go backpacking in Thailand, it's important not to overload your rucksack. A high-quality backpack with a capacity of 50 to 70 litres offers enough space for all your essentials without being too bulky or unwieldy.
Important for backpackers and backpackers: the rucksack should fit well and be equipped with an adjustable carrying system to take the strain off your back and shoulders. An additional daypack is ideal for keeping the most important items such as water, snacks and personal items to hand during excursions or sightseeing. A suitable rain cover is also recommended to protect your luggage from rain or dust. With a well-designed piece of luggage, such as a Multibag backpack, you are ideally prepared for the various challenges of a trip to Thailand - from trekking in the jungle to relaxing days on the coast. Roll-up backpacks, for example, are also ideal. This is because the volume can be expanded.
We recommend:
- Main backpack: A comfortable and robust backpack with a capacity of approx. 50-70 litres is ideal for all your equipment.
- Day rucksack: A smaller rucksack for day trips in which you can stow water, snacks and personal items.
Also practical: An additional belt pouch to always have the most important items to hand.
Packing list for Thailand: Additional tips for backpackers
You can also keep this in mind:
- Laundry: There are many cheap laundry facilities in Thailand. So you don't need to pack a lot of clothes unnecessarily.
- Pay attention to water quality: Only drink bottled or filtered water to avoid health problems.
- Don't forget mosquito repellent: You should pay particular attention to mosquito repellent in the evening, especially in tropical areas and by the water.
- Always pack something to cover up with:
Although Thailand is known for its hot climate, it can get chilly, especially in the mountains or on air-conditioned buses and aeroplanes. Pack a light but warm jacket or an extra T-shirt to keep you warm in cooler environments.
- Bear in mind the time change:
If you are travelling from Europe to Thailand, you should prepare for the time change. The time difference can disrupt your sleep patterns, so bring earplugs and a sleep mask if necessary to help you sleep better during the long flights and in different accommodation.
- Take care of the environment:
Thailand is a beautiful country, but unfortunately the environment is polluted by plastic waste in some places. Pack reusable products such as a water bottle, shopping bags and possibly a stainless steel or bamboo straw to reduce your plastic consumption and minimise your ecological footprint.
Thailand packing list
- Documents and finances
Nothing works without them: a well-organised document folder ensures stress-free travel. Make sure you have all the important documents with you.
- Passport: With sufficient validity (at least 6 months from date of entry).
- Visa: Required depending on length and purpose of stay.
- Credit card and some cash: For emergencies and places that do not accept card payments.
- Copies of important documents: Keep both digital and physical copies.
- Travel insurance: Proof of valid international health insurance.
- Clothing
Thailand has a tropical climate, so light and breathable clothing is a must. Pack only the essentials - laundry can be washed cheaply anywhere.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: Cotton T-shirts, light blouses and shorts are perfect for the tropical climate.
- Long trousers and tops: For protection against mosquitoes and for visiting temples where covered shoulders and knees are required.
- Swimwear: For beach days and spontaneous swimming trips.
- Underwear and socks: Sufficient for the duration of the trip, whereby quick-drying materials are an advantage.
- Light rain jacket: Essential, especially during the rainy season.
- Sarong or scarf: Versatile, can be used as a blanket, sun protection or to cover up in temples.
- Shoes
Comfortable shoes are essential when travelling through Thailand. Depending on the activity, you will need different models:
- Comfortable hiking boots: For trekking tours and longer walks.
- Flip-flops or sandals: Ideal for the beach and lightweight footwear for everyday wear.
- Trekking sandals: Practical for activities where both protection and ventilation are required.
- Toiletries
In Thailand, you can get many toiletries locally, but it's worth bringing a few basics with you to be on the safe side.
- Travel towel: Lightweight and quick-drying.
- Sunscreen: High sun protection factor to protect against intense sunlight.
- After sun body lotion: For moisturising after long days in the sun.
- Mosquito repellent: Indispensable in tropical areas.
- Personal hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo in travel size.
- Hand sanitiser: For when you are travelling and no water is available.
- First-aid kit
A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential when travelling to Thailand. Whether it's minor injuries, stomach problems or insect bites - with the right preparation, you can overcome many challenges yourself. Especially in remote regions or on islands, it can be difficult to get medical care quickly, so being prepared is particularly important.
- Basic medication: painkillers, anti-diarrhoea medication and personal medication.
- First aid kit: plasters, disinfectant and bandages.
- Activated charcoal: Helpful for food poisoning.
- Electrolytes: To compensate for dehydration.
- Electronics
Devices such as mobile phones and cameras are a must on your trip. Here is an overview of what is really useful:
- Mobile phone and charger: For communication and navigation.
- Powerbank: To charge devices while travelling.
- Travel adapter: Thailand uses type A, B and C 220V sockets.
- Camera: To capture the best moments.
- Miscellaneous
There are a few things that will make travelling much easier and that you should therefore not forget.
- Mosquito net: Particularly useful in rural areas.
- Sleeping bag liner: For more hygiene in hostels.
- Padlock: For securing luggage or lockers in hostels.
- Water bottle with filter: To purify drinking water and reduce plastic waste.
- Earplugs and sleep mask: For restful sleep in busy environments.
- Useful apps and documents
With the right apps and documents, your travel planning will be easier and less stressful. Digital helpers and well-prepared documents ensure that you always find your way around and are prepared for unexpected situations.
- Offline maps: Apps such as Maps.me or Google Maps for navigation without the internet.
- Phrasebook: Basic Thai phrases can be helpful.
- Travel guide: Digital or in book form for information while travelling.
With this packing list, you are well equipped for your Thailand adventure. Remember that less is often more - pack only the essentials so that you can travel flexibly and carefree. Enjoy your trip and the many impressions that Thailand has to offer. Do you prefer travelling without company? Take a look at our guide to travelling alone and get inspired.
