Thailand Packing

Pack lightly. Lay out only what you absolutely need. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, also consult this book’s The Great Outdoors.

Luggage: If you plan to cover most of your trip on foot, a sturdy internal frame backpack is great. (For the basics on buying a pack.) Unless you are staying in 1 place for a large chunk of time, a suitcase will be unwieldy. A daypack (a small backpack or courier bag) is useful.
Clothing: It’s a good idea to bring a warm jacket or wool sweater, a rain jacket (Gore-Tex® is both waterproof and breathable), sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and thick socks. Sandals are a good idea for grubby hostel showers. Extra socks too are a great addition when packing. In order to enter many temples in Thailand, dress that covers both the arms and the legs is required, and shoes that (at a minimum) have a strap on the heel.
Sleepsack: Some hostels require that you either provide your own linen or rent sheets from them. Making your own sleepsack: fold a full-size sheet in half the long way, then sew it closed along the long side and 1 of the short sides.
Converters and Adapters: In Thailand, electricity is 220 volts AC, enough to fry any 120V North American appliance. 220/240V electrical appliances won’t work with 120V current, either. Americans and Canadians should buy an adapter (which changes the shape of the plug; US$5) and a converter (which changes the voltage; US$10-30). Don’t make the mistake of using only an adapter (unless appliance instructions explicitly state otherwise). Australians and New Zealanders (who use 220V at home) won’t need a converter, but will need a set of adapters to use anything electrical. For more info, check out http://kropla.com/electric.htm.
Toiletries: Condoms, deodorant, razors, tampons, and toothbrushes are often available, but it may be difficult to find your preferred brand. Contact lenses are likely to be expensive and difficult to find, so bring extra pairs and solution. Bring your glasses and a copy of your prescription in case you need emergency replacements.
First-Aid Kit: Pack bandages, a pain reliever, antibiotic cream, a thermometer, a multifunction pocketknife, tweezers, moleskin, decongestant, motion-sickness remedy, diarrhea or upset-stomach medication (Pepto Bismol or Imodium), an antihistamine, sunscreen, insect repellent, burn ointment, and a syringe for emergencies (get an explanatory letter from your doctor). If you are traveling in a malarial area of Thailand, also bring your malaria medication.
Other Useful Items: Bring a money belt and a small padlock. Basic outdoors equipment (plastic water bottle, compass, waterproof matches, pocketknife, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat). Other things you’re liable to forget include: an umbrella, sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, soap, food, shampoo, and other spillables), an alarm clock, safety pins, rubber bands, a flashlight, and garbage bags. A cell phone can be a lifesaver on the road; see for information on acquiring one that will work in Thailand.
Important Documents: Don’t forget your passport, traveler’s checks, ATM and/or credit cards, adequate ID, and photocopies of all of the aforementioned items. Check that you have any of the following: a hosteling membership card; driver’s license ; travel insurance forms ; ISIC ; and/or railpass or bus pass .