What Should You Pack for South Korea?
South Korea has distinct seasons, so pack accordingly! In spring, you’ll want light layers like sweaters and jackets for chilly mornings. Summer is hot and humid, so bring lightweight, breathable clothing. Fall is ideal for layers as temperatures cool down. Winters are cold, so make sure to pack a heavy coat, gloves, and a warm hat if visiting during that season!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, hiking in Bukhansan National Park, shopping in Myeongdong, visiting Namsan Tower, and trying local street food in Seoul’s markets.
Dress Code
South Korean fashion is trendy, so bring stylish yet practical outfits. Casual attire is fine for sightseeing, but if you plan on dining at nicer restaurants, pack something more polished like a dress or slacks. Koreans tend to dress modestly, so avoid showing too much skin. For outdoor adventures like hiking, make sure to bring appropriate activewear.
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Spring
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
50 – 70°F
(10 – 21°C
)
Winter
20 – 40°F
(-6 – 4°C
)
Spring: Mild with blooming flowers, occasional rain
Summer: Hot, humid, rainy
Fall: Cool & clear, less rain
Winter: Cold and dry, with occasional snow
Spring
4.7 inches of rain
Summer
10.7 inches of rain
Fall
4.3 inches of rain
Winter
1.5 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm days, especially when exploring Seoul’s markets.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cooler evenings.
3. Sweaters: Great for spring or fall when the temperature drops.
4. Casual Jacket: I loved having my casual jacket for layering during chilly evenings in the city!
5. Tank Tops: Great for the hot summer months while walking around Itaewon.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable for long days of walking—I really liked wearing these while exploring the temples.
2. Leggings: Perfect for hiking or layering under dresses in cooler weather.
3. Shorts: A must for hot summer days at the beaches in Busan.
4. Dresses: Ideal for evenings out in Seoul—pick a stylish dress that’s easy to layer for different seasons!
5. Skirt: A stylish option for daytime sightseeing in cultural areas like Insadong.
6. Jumpsuit: A chic, all-in-one outfit for dinners and evenings out.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for city sightseeing and hiking in national parks.
2. Flats: Great for dressing up a casual outfit, perfect for Seoul’s trendy cafes.
3. Swimsuit: If you’re heading to Jeju Island, don’t forget this!
4. Flip Flops: Ideal for summer beach days at Haeundae Beach.
5. Sunglasses: I always bring these for sunny days exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace.
6. Pajamas: Comfortable for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for quick trips between cities like Seoul and Busan.
2. Daypack: Essential for day hikes in Bukhansan National Park.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical purse for exploring the shops and cafes in Seoul.
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
- Layers: South Korea’s weather changes with the seasons, so layering is key, especially in spring and fall.
- Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re exploring Seoul or hiking, good shoes are essential.
- Modest attire: While trendy, South Korean fashion is often more conservative, so pack clothes that cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or religious sites.
South Korea Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?
October is the best month to visit South Korea. The weather is cool and pleasant, with vibrant autumn foliage throughout the country. This time of year is less crowded compared to the summer months, and festivals like the Busan International Film Festival take place during this season, making it a great time for both sightseeing and cultural experiences.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SOUTH KOREA?
Seoul Lantern Festival (November): A stunning display of lanterns along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, perfect for families and couples.
Boryeong Mud Festival (July): A popular festival where participants enjoy mud wrestling, mudslides, and live music on Daecheon Beach, attracting both solo travelers and groups.
Gwangju Biennale (September): An international art exhibition held every two years, ideal for art lovers and cultural explorers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SOUTH KOREA?
South Korea offers a mix of modern cities and historic landmarks. In Seoul, visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace and explore trendy neighborhoods like Hongdae. One of my favorite spots is Namsan Seoul Tower for panoramic city views. Outside of Seoul, head to Jeju Island for its volcanic landscapes and beaches, or visit Gyeongju for its ancient temples and royal tombs.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?
Ideally, spend at least 7-10 days to fully experience South Korea, from Seoul to Jeju Island.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, and enjoy dinner in Myeongdong. On day two, take a stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, shop in Hongdae, and hike up Namsan to Seoul Tower.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit Insadong and Dongdaemun Design Plaza. On day four, take a day trip to Nami Island for scenic views. On day five, explore the trendy Gangnam district and the COEX Mall.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, explore the DMZ for a glimpse into North-South Korea relations. On day seven, take a trip to Everland or Lotte World theme parks.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, fly to Jeju Island and explore Hallasan National Park. On day nine, relax on the beaches of Jeju, and on day ten, visit the Manjanggul Lava Tube and Seongsan Ilchulbong for breathtaking natural sights.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore Busan’s beaches and seafood markets. Spend day twelve at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and on days thirteen and fourteen, visit Gyeongju to explore ancient Korean history at Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SOUTH KOREA?
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 Light 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 Light 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 Light 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 Light 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 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SOUTH KOREA?
Heavy Winter Coat: South Korea’s winters can be cold, but unless you’re visiting during the height of winter, a lighter coat will suffice.
High Heels: With lots of walking and hilly terrain, comfortable shoes are a must.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SOUTH KOREA ?
Airfare: $600-$1,500 depending on the season. Prices are higher in summer and during holidays.
Accommodation: $60-$200 per night. Rates increase during festivals and peak tourist seasons.
Transportation: $50-$100 for public transportation or rental cars.
Meals: $20-$60 per day, with affordable options available.
Activities: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you visit museums, palaces, or take day trips.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SOUTH KOREA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
No, tipping is not expected in South Korea. In restaurants, you may leave a small amount of change, but it is generally not necessary.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SOUTH KOREA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Public transportation: South Korea has excellent public transit systems, so use buses and trains to get around.
- Street food: Try the local street food in markets like Gwangjang Market for an authentic culinary experience.
- Remove shoes: When entering traditional homes or certain restaurants, it’s customary to remove your shoes.