Thailand is a country with amazing cities, beaches and landscapes. When choosing what to pack for a trip some items are essential. This following post is a Thailand packing list for 2 weeks and includes a downloadable checklist that you can print.
In this post you will find:
Weather in Thailand
First things first. In order to know what pack you need to know what’s the weather like. Thailand has a tropical, hot and humid climate.
Thailand has three seasons: monsoon season (June to October), the “cool” season (November to February), and the hot season (March to may).
Bangkok’s weather is hot and humid all year so it is important to stay hydrated and wear comfortable, light clothing to survive the heat. Bangkok’s average temperature is around 29.5°C (85°F). Chang Mai is slightly cooler, with an average temperature of 21.5-28.2°C (70.7-83°F).
November to February is the best time to visit Thailand since the temperature is more bearable (never in Bangkok), and it doesn’t rain much.
Want to know more about Thailand? Read: tips for visiting Thailand
Thailand Packing List for 2 weeks
With this humid weather and high temperatures, chances are you will spend most of your days in t-shirts and shorts.
I recommend you take as little as possible, especially if you are going to be traveling between the different islands. Clothes in Thailand are really cheap, you’ll find tops for sale everywhere for US$5 or less so don’t pack what you’re planning to buy there.
CLOTHES
- 3/4 t-shirts
The best thing is to wear some lightweight T-shirts that cover your shoulders so you can enter the temples wearing them and also to avoid the shoulder sunburn.
- 1 workout top
If you’re planning to exercise during your trip or are planning on doing trekking or other outdoor activity, remember to pack a fitness top.
- 2 Dresses
Dresses are very versatile. You can wear them in Bangkok and on the beach. If you have a dress that’s long enough you can also wear it to visit the temples.
- 1 maxi skirt
If you prefer you can pack a maxi skirt like this one. Make sure it is over the knee and not tight so you can wear it at the temples.
- 1/2 pairs of shorts
Make sure you carry at least one pair of shorts, as you will use them a lot on the islands. Running shorts are also great because they are made of thin fabric so it’s easy to wash and dry.
- 1 pair of lightweight pants
I highly recommend to pack one pair of lightweight pants. If you don’t have light pants, you can easily buy them in Thailand.
- 1 pair of leggings
Depending on your itinerary, a pair of leggings could be useful for trekking and other activities.
- 1 light Jacket
Even though it’s hot all the time in Thailand, pack a lightweight jacket. You can use wear it if it rains or to survive the air conditioning on public transportation.
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- Underwear
- Socks
- Bras
SHOES
- Flip Flops & Sandals
With the hot temperatures, you’ll spend most of the day in flip flops or sandals. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes that you have already used at home so you do not hurt your feet in the middle of the trip. Birkenstock sandals are great for Thailand hot temperatures.
- Hiking/running shoes
Make sure you bring a pair of running shoes or lightweight hiking shoes for hikes and also for Bangkok as it’s a big city and you’ll probably walk a lot.
For the beach days…
Rule number 1 for the beach days in Thailand: wear sunscreen. Make sure you put on sunscreen every morning before you head out and also take it with you on your backpack. In addition to this you must also bring a hat and sunglasses.
- Swimwear (Check out these Australian designed bikinis)
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Beach Blanket
- Snorkeling mask
Beach blanket Snorkeling Mask Bikini Beach Hat
If you’re out for the day island hopping, you will need a small bag like this Herschel to carry sunscreen, a beach blanket, a towel and your snorkel gear (if you don’t have one, you can buy it or rent it there).
Must-Have Items to pack for 2 weeks in Thailand
- Mosquito Repellent
You should make sure you put on mosquito repellent every morning before you head out for the day, and reapply repellent before dusk. Dengue fever is a serious problem throughout Thailand. It might also be a good idea to bring mosquito repellent bracelets.
- Universal Adapter
For any trip what I always bring to ensure I can connect everywhere is a universal adapter. It’s much simpler than buying an adapter at each country you visit and you can buy one for only $10 at Amazon.
- First Aid
Make sure you take any medicines you require, band-aids and anti-diarrheal Medicines.
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Money Carrier
Don’t forget to bring a money belt for keeping your money safe during any travel.
What to wear in temples in Thailand
One of your main activities in Thailand will probably be visiting the famous and amazing temples. It is important to respect the rules and dress code.
You should cover your shoulders and knees (both sexes). It’s best to wear lightweight pants or capris. Many people buy the typical elephants pants in Bangkok and wear them at the temples.
You should wear a t-shirt that covers your shoulders or use a beach sarong or pashmina for visiting the temples. Another great item to pack is a loose cover kimono.
You’ll also be expected to leave your shoes outside of all temples so use shoes that are easy to get on and off.
Extras
- Packing Cubes: Keep your suitcase organized with these packing cubes. They help you organize your clothes in smaller bags.
- Passport holder: Ok, I know it is something totally unnecessary but some passport holders are so cute! I always travel with a different one.
- Water bottle/Mug: I always travel with a water bottle and fill it up at the hotel. You can also bring your own mug for warm beverages.
- Travel diary and pen: A pen is always a must, it is useful to have one for filling in arrival and departure forms.
Backpack or suitcase?
The truth is that this is up to you and what you usually feel comfortable with. Just keep in mind that low-cost airlines like Air Asia charge checked baggage, so a good option would be to just travel with a carry on.
If you plan on moving a lot, the easiest thing is to bring a backpack. Choosing a good backpack is important so I recommend that you go to a backpacking store in person and try on bags to make sure it’s a perfect fit. I also recommend browsing backpacks on Amazon where you can find many styles and good prices. I personally use a 50 L bag from MEC. Osprey is also a great brand for backpacks.
>>Click here to download your free printable checklist for your trip to Thailand
Need more tips for visiting Southeast Asia? Check out these posts:
- What to do in 3 days in Bangkok
- Tips for planning a trip to Thailand
- Info & Tips to plan a trip to Singapore
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3 comments
I love this post! I’m going to Thailand in a few weeks and I’m so excited to pack my own bag! This checklist is so helpful!
I can’t wait to head to Thailand. Thanks for this info, great to find it all in one place! 🙂
I’m glad it helped 🙂 Thailand is amazing!