What Should You Pack for Bangkok?
Bangkok is hot and humid year-round, so pack light, breathable clothes! In the hot months, short sleeve shirts, tank tops, and dresses are great for staying cool. A rain jacket or umbrella is essential during the rainy season, especially for outdoor markets like Chatuchak. In winter, mornings can be a bit cooler, so you might want a light sweater or jacket. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around temples, markets, and the city’s busy streets!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, shopping at Chatuchak Market, exploring floating markets, and enjoying Thai street food.
Dress Code
Bangkok is casual, but modesty is important when visiting temples like Wat Pho or the Grand Palace. Pack clothes that cover your shoulders and knees for temple visits. Outside of temples, casual wear like shorts, skirts, and t-shirts are fine for sightseeing and shopping. If you’re planning a night out in Sukhumvit or Thonglor, you might want to dress up a bit with a nice dress or stylish top. Comfortable shoes are ideal for walking, but sandals work well for the hot weather.
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Spring
80 – 95°F
(27 – 35°C
)
Summer
80 – 95°F
(27 – 35°C
)
Fall
77 – 93°F
(25 – 34°C
)
Winter
73 – 90°F
(23 – 32°C
)
Spring: Hot and humid with occasional rain
Summer: Very hot and humid, frequent rain
Fall: Warm, with decreasing rain but still humid
Winter: Warm and dry
Spring
5.2 inches of rain
Summer
8.6 inches of rain
Fall
9.1 inches of rain
Winter
0.7 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for hot days while exploring Chatuchak Market—I loved having these for comfort!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for evening wear or air-conditioned malls like MBK Center.
3. Tank Tops: Perfect for hot days when visiting outdoor markets or parks.
4. Casual Jacket: Useful for cooler evenings or overly air-conditioned spaces.
5. Sweater: Ideal for early mornings or if you plan to be indoors at malls or cinemas.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Perfect for exploring outdoor markets and temples—I really liked these for the hot weather!
2. Dresses: Great for staying cool while sightseeing and ideal for evening dinners.
3. Pants: Light, airy pants are good for evenings or visiting temples.
4. Skirt: Perfect for casual outings or shopping trips.
5. Leggings: Great for layering or for comfort during flights or long walks around the city.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the markets and temples—especially at Chatuchak Market.
2. Sandals: Perfect for hot days and casual outings, especially along the river.
3. Sunglasses: The sun can be intense, so don’t forget these for outdoor activities!
4. Hat: A must for sun protection when visiting temples or walking along the river.
5. Swimsuit: Great if you’re planning to visit one of the city’s rooftop pools.
6. Sarong: Ideal for covering up at temples or lounging by a pool.
7. Beach Coverup: Perfect for relaxing at rooftop pools or riverside spots.
8. Pajamas: Lightweight and breathable for warm nights.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for keeping essentials close on short trips or during travel.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying gear while exploring temples and markets like Chatuchak.
3. Purse: Practical for carrying personal items while shopping or visiting restaurants.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying shopping finds or extra layers while exploring Bangkok.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light clothing: Bangkok’s heat can be intense, so pack breathable fabrics like cotton to stay cool.
- Rain gear: A compact umbrella or rain jacket is useful for sudden downpours.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, especially at markets and temples, so pack shoes that are good for long days.
- Modest attire: If you plan to visit temples, pack modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Bangkok Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BANGKOK?
November is the best month to visit Bangkok because the weather is cooler, the rainy season has ended, and the humidity is lower. November’s also great because the city is less crowded, and outdoor activities like visiting the Grand Palace or Chatuchak Market are more comfortable.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN BANGKOK?
Loy Krathong (November): A beautiful festival where locals float lanterns and offerings on rivers and lakes, perfect for couples and families.
Songkran (April): Thailand’s famous water festival celebrated across the country with water fights, ideal for families and groups of friends.
Chinese New Year (January/February): Celebrated in Chinatown with parades, lion dances, and traditional performances, great for solo travelers and groups.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN BANGKOK?
Bangkok is packed with vibrant culture, markets, and temples. One of my favorite spots is the Grand Palace, a must-see for its stunning architecture and history. Don’t miss Wat Arun for beautiful views of the river, and visit Chatuchak Market on the weekend for some incredible shopping. Explore the city’s canals by taking a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. Khao San Road is great for nightlife, while Lumpini Park offers a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT BANGKOK?
3-4 days is ideal for exploring Bangkok’s key temples, markets, and attractions. You can cover the highlights in a shorter trip.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, then enjoy dinner by the Chao Phraya River. Spend day two shopping at Chatuchak Market and exploring Lumpini Park.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, explore Jim Thompson House and visit MBK Center for shopping. Spend day four taking a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visiting Wat Saket (Golden Mount). On day five, explore the bustling streets of Chinatown and enjoy local street food.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, take a day trip to the floating markets near Bangkok. On day seven, visit Khao San Road for nightlife and try a traditional Thai massage.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore Asiatique for evening shopping and dining. Spend day nine visiting the ancient city of Ayutthaya on a guided tour. On day ten, relax with a day at a spa or visit more temples such as Wat Benchamabophit.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the Erawan Museum and explore its intricate sculptures. Spend day twelve exploring nearby Bang Krachao for a taste of Bangkok’s “green lung.” On days thirteen and fourteen, visit the beaches in Pattaya or Hua Hin.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN BANGKOK?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR BANGKOK?
Heavy winter clothing: Bangkok’s tropical climate means you won’t need anything too heavy.
High heels: Bangkok’s streets can be uneven and crowded, so comfortable walking shoes are better.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO BANGKOK ?
Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Flights are pricier during peak travel seasons.
Accommodation: $30-$150 per night depending on whether you choose budget hotels or luxury stays.
Transportation: $10-$30 per day for taxis, tuk-tuks, or the BTS Skytrain.
Meals: $15-$40 per day, with plenty of affordable street food and mid-range restaurants.
Activities: $15-$50 per day for entry to temples, tours, and shopping.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN BANGKOK? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand, but it is appreciated in restaurants and hotels. Leaving 10% at restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is common.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BANGKOK BEFORE I VISIT?
- Stay hydrated: Bangkok’s heat can be intense, so carry water with you and take breaks.
- Use public transport: The BTS Skytrain and MRT are affordable and faster than taxis during rush hour.
- Bargain at markets: Negotiating prices is common at places like Chatuchak Market, but always remain polite.
- Respect temple etiquette: Remove your shoes and dress modestly when visiting temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace.