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What to Wear in Thailand: Packing List

by Lisa Stentvedt
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Wondering what to wear in Thailand, or just looking for a great Thailand packing list? Then you’ve come to the right place!

As you are reading this, I am about to touch down in Krabi, Thailand, a picturesque destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. After landing, I will embark on an exciting journey, hopping on a bus and then a boat to reach the enchanting island of Koh Lanta.

I felt compelled to write this post out of sheer frustration, as I found myself pondering the perennial question of what to wear in Thailand. However, amidst this fashion crisis, I had an epiphany – planning outfits online can actually be more enjoyable and hassle-free than physically rummaging through my wardrobe and grappling with that seemingly never-ending suitcase conundrum.

In fact, I’ve even taken it a step further by converting this post into my official Thailand packing list, multitasking at its finest! Perhaps this approach will also alleviate the mental packing block that I often find myself grappling with, bringing forth a sense of liberation and efficiency.

I have cleverly (in my opinion) split this post into outfits so that you can browse through what to take to Thailand on an outfit by outfit basis. So, if you found this post because you were trying to plan specific outfits for Thailand as you were packing; you’re in the right spot (you fashionista)!

Post-trip notes: I am proud to say that the packing list and outfits listed below worked well for the trip! I think I’ll consider this my go-to warm-destination packing list moving forward (as opposed to my winter packing list for destinations such as Norway, Iceland etc).

what to wear in thailand, a girl wearing a bright green and purple dress on a swing on a beach in thailand
Wondering what to wear in Thailand? Keep reading!

What to wear in Thailand: My Outfits for Thailand

Are you ready to dive into what to wear in Thailand? Naturally, the type of holiday you are having there will affect what you should wear, and since I am planning a mix between a beach holiday and an adventure trip, the outfits for Thailand found below reflect this.

Of course, if you are heading to Bangkok, you might want to lay off the beach wraps and focus more on the comfy day-to-day wear (I’m thinking jean shorts and tops that breathe).

As mentioned, I have split this into outfits for Thailand, and each has its own heading (and a brief explanation).

A massive side note; I am not a fashion blogger. If that’s what you’re into, you might want to follow someone else. However, I am a practical travel blogger, and like making things easy for myself and you guys, so I thought writing down what to wear in Thailand in order to create a Thailand packing list would be helpful for us all.

Of course, the length of your trip also affects what to pack, so keep that in mind. I spent 2 weeks in Thailand, and obviously packed accordingly (which means, I massively overpacked).

Visiting an all-inclusive resort in Thailand? Then you’ll want to read my guide to packing for an all-inclusive holiday next!

#1 What to wear on the flight to Thailand

On flights, I am all about comfort. Whether I’m flying Business Class or Economy, you will never find me getting off a plane like Victoria Beckham.

I always pack a pair of fuzzy, warm socks, and they go on my feet the second I sit down. I always travel in workout tights, as they are the most comfortable trousers I own. No shame and no judgment in this area.

Layers are key on a plane, and I try to always have 3 layers available to me (t-shirt, thin long sleeve and a proper sweater). If I don’t have a warm sweater with me, a good scarf can also double as a blanket.

I also make sure to always pack my Kindle in my carry-on, as I’m sure the flight will just fly by (see what I did there?) when I’m reading. For some of my favourite books (Kindle or no Kindle), head this way.

Flight packing list:

Note that this packing list works best for long-haul flights – I don’t pack this much if I am only flying a couple of hours.

A pair of legs wearing black leggings, crossed and leaning on a leg rest onboard a Qatar business class flight.
The Reebok high rise leggings are my go-to when travelling long-haul, even when I’m lucky enough to fly Qatar business class!

#2 Beach Day

I bring a minimum of two sets of bikinis on all beach trips so that I can dress according to how I want to come off that day. Just kidding, but I do love changing up my swimsuits, if not just to avoid tanlines.

I love a good color party, and colorful looks are perfect for days at the beach bar. The most important thing when it comes to beach days, though, is to be comfortable. You don’t want to spend the day pulling at your straps and hiding your stomach.

So, pack at least two swimsuits/bikinis you feel good in, and of course add in sunglasses, a shawl/wrap, sunscreen and all the basics.

Beach day packing list:

  • Sunscreen – protect yourself from the sun – I always recommend reef-safe sunscreen wherever you go.
  • Hat or Umbrella – these will help provide shade and keep you cool in the hot weather.
  • Sunglasses – perfect for taking in the beautiful views without squinting.
  • Swimming costume – hit the waves and take a dip!
  • Water bottle – stay hydrated during your outing!
  • Snacks – fuel up with some snacks to keep your energy levels high throughout the day.
  • Beach towel – lay down on something soft while lounging by the sea.
  • Beach bag – a must-have item for carrying your essentials around with you!
A secluded beach in thailand, with lots of forest, trees and shrubbery surrounding it

#3 Evening – Dressing Up or Down

Some evenings you want to dress up and play a little more fancy than usual. Especially when traveling abroad is this a thing, because you will be able to afford more than you could at home. I can’t wait to put a nice dress on, put my hair in a pretty headband and pretend like I always eat at restaurants where they pour your wine for you.

For nights where you are a little more casual, you can never go wrong with jeans shorts and a fun top. I think it’s a rule of feminism.

An extra plus: with shorts you have pockets, which means you won’t have to carry a bag to dinner. I absolutely hate having to bring a bag to literally carry two items; my phone and my wallet, and love it when I don’t have to! Truth be told, I usually dump my shit in someone else’s bag.

For a night out in Thailand, you will need some comfortable shoes or sandals to walk around in. Make sure they are breathable and will keep your feet cool! You’ll also need something that is light and airy to wear, as the weather can be quite hot. A thin cotton dress or a light linen shirt with shorts would do just fine.

Bring along a scarf or shawl for those evenings when it gets a bit cooler. Lastly, don’t forget your passport and wallet, if you’re planning on going out for dinner!

Packing list for evenings in Thailand:

  • Comfortable shoes or sandals
  • A light dress
  • Shorts
  • A simple top
  • Scarf or shawl
  • Wallet

#4 Staying Active & Exploring

It is important to try and get some active minutes in when most of your time is spent lounging by the pool and eating great food. I’ve found that bringing my trainers makes me feel so guilty about not using them that I end up spending an hour in the hotel gym, so I never travel without them.

My number one tip for dressing on days spent hiking, boating or in general exploring the area; wear your bikini underneath. Or, wear a sports bra and your bikini bottoms.

I know that every hike or trail we find in Thailand will end with jumping in the pool or nearest body of water, so I will make sure to always be bikini ready.

When packing for a holiday out exploring, you don’t need to take your whole wardrobe, but it is important to make sure you have all the essentials. Some must-have items include bug spray, which can protect against unwanted bites; a sports bra, which helps keep you comfortable while active; light sneakers, so that you don’t get weighed down; and shorts, so that you can enjoy the outdoors without feeling too hot.

Other useful items include a hat or visor to protect from the sun, sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen, and an appropriate amount of clothing and accessories for your expected activities. Don’t forget other miscellaneous items like a water bottle to stay hydrated on your journey!

If you are visiting temples, a shawl is needed to cover up.

Packing List for Active days:

  • Sports bra
  • Shorts
  • Light top
  • Sneakers
  • Bug spray
  • Cap or visor
  • Small bag to carry things (a small crossover bag is best)
  • Water bottle
  • A shawl

#5 Must-Have Accessories for your Thailand packing list

Lip balm is #1 on this list for a reason; I would die without it. Especially on planes, as your skin tends to dry out during long flights. Other necessities include a portable charger and a proper set of headphones (for flights; recommend noise-cancelling ones, but for the beach; the ones on the list are perfect, and so cute).

I love a good pair of sunglasses, and ever since investing (that’s what it felt like) in my first pair of Ray-Bans (or “grown-up sunglasses” as I call them), I’ve been hooked on pairing them with what I’m wearing that day. So, if you are looking for a new pair, these are my favourites (and they just happen to go so well with the outfits for Thailand outlined above)!

  • Lip balm (with SPF is ideal)
  • Noise-cancelling headphones
  • Portable charger
  • Sunglasses (at least 2 pairs)
  • A hat or visor
  • Camera
  • Reusable water bottle (this one that collapses is great and takes up no space)
  • Cash (Thai baht)
Guide to two weeks in Thailand, 2 week Thailand itinerary

Complete Packing List for Thailand

Heading off to Thailand soon too? Prepare for your journey with this comprehensive packing list so you can have an unforgettable trip. Basically, I’ve summarised all the above into a neat packing list.

When vacationing in Thailand, you’ll want to make sure you bring all the essentials while also keeping it light enough for easy travel. From clothing suitable for the weather to some local snacks, here’s what to put in your suitcase before jetting off.

  • Wallet and passport (start your trip right by not forgetting these)
  • Phone and electronics chargers
  • Kindle
  • Cozy socks
  • Flowy trousers OR leggings (these are my favourites)
  • T-shirt
  • Thin sweater/long sleeve
  • Thick sweater (like a good Scandinavian knitted one)
  • AirPods
  • Noise cancelling headset
  • My iPad with some shows or movies downloaded
  • Sunscreen – protect yourself from the sun – I always recommend reef-safe sunscreen wherever you go.
  • Hat or Umbrella
  • Sunglasses
  • Swimming costume
  • Water bottle
  • Beach towel
  • Beach bag
  • Comfortable shoes or sandals
  • A light dress
  • Shorts
  • A simple top
  • Scarf or shawl
  • Sports bra
  • Shorts
  • Light top
  • Sneakers
  • Bug spray
  • Cap or visor
  • Small bag to carry things
  • Portable/reusable Water bottle
  • Lip balm (with SPF is ideal)
  • Portable charger
  • Sunglasses (at least 2 pairs)
  • A hat or visor
  • Camera
  • Cash (Thai baht)

Is anything missing? Leave a comment to let me know!

What to wear in Thailand: Final words

Now that we’ve covered a few outfits for Thailand for you to add to your packing list, I hope I’ve made packing for your next trip a little easier!

When it comes to what to wear in Thailand, there aren’t many do’s and don’ts you need to be aware of, but I would recommend bringing a shawl to cover up your shoulders if you are visiting any temples or sacred places.

If you are planning a trip to Thailand, don’t miss these posts and resources:

This wasn’t a usual post for me, so I’m curious to know what you guys think! Do you like these ‘outfit posts’ (bear in mind you’ll never find me posting my ‘Outfit of the Day’)? Would you like to see more of them? Let me know!

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4 comments

stephaniestraveldiary 30/01/2017 - 18:32

Great post.
x

Lisa // Fjords & Beaches 14/02/2017 - 15:46

Thank you, Stephanie! 🙂

Allison Silver 25/02/2017 - 14:45

fantastic post! Love the Eugeina Kim beach hat!
http://www.cautionmeetwind.com

Lisa // Fjords & Beaches 25/02/2017 - 17:19

Me too! Thanks for reading, Allison! 🙂

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