You’ve heard about the beaches, the parties, the shopping and the colourful nightlife in Thailand, and I bet you don’t know anyone who has come back disappointed. So, you’d like to go? Before you do, make sure you’re prepared for the time of your life.
First, let’s start with what not to pack when going to Thailand in the peak summer season. You don’t need a jacket, for starters. The air conditioning might make it a bit chilly at times, but a light scarf or throw will do. If you absolutely have to take tekkies (for a hike or trek), then do so, otherwise a comfortable pair of slops will do. Don’t bother with jeans – if you need long pants, take a light pair. It’s hot and you’ll regret taking things you’re not going to need and you’ll want that space for all your shopping.
Packing three to four days worth of clothing is sufficient as you can get laundry done anywhere, inexpensively (tip: take neutral colours that can be mixed an matched easily). Most toiletries can be bought on your trip unless you have special preferences of brands. Sandals are easy to come by but bigger sizes for women are harder to find. Most hotels, even the budget ones, give you towels but you can take one with in case. A swimming costume, sunblock, mosquito repellent and a light daypack are essential.
Many people will say that you can buy most of your clothing there, ‘Just go with an empty bag and you’ll be fine.’ This is only half true. If you’re a female and your clothing size (by western standards) is between small and large, then you can get lots at a bargain. Although, I’m a medium to large and I struggled to find things that fit, and many of the vendors don’t allow you to try on garments.
If you’re planning the trip yourself, you may be tempted to just rock up in Thailand and wing it without any itinerary. This is fine, as it’s easy to get around. I would recommend that you at least book your first night before you arrive. It saves you the hassle of wondering what to tell the taxi driver because you don’t actually know where you’re going. If you don’t like the place you’re staying at, check out the next day and find something else. Accommodation is fairly cheap and most of the low-budget places even have bottled water, linen, towels and air conditioning in the rooms.
Try to make sure that you know the ferry and boat schedules so that you don’t waste time trying to get to the islands. Familiarise yourself with basic costs so that you are prepared for big expenses if they are needed. Have an idea of the locations of all the places you want to go so that you don’t travel back and forth.
Sure, it may take some of the spontaneity out of some parts of the trip, but little things like a missed boats, public holidays, and no flights can really waste a lot of the time that you could be spending on the beach.
Useful websites:
For accommodation, travel information, maps and general tips visit www.sawadee.com.
For flights, visit www.airasia.com.
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