Packing for a trip to a new country can be overwhelming. You don't know what to expect so you want to pack for all possibilities but you're limited with your luggage and each blog says different and it's just too much. I get it. This is my true experience of Thailand, what I packed, what I wish I had, what I regret packing and 5 items you need to have!
Must have items:
1- light waterproof
It rains in tropical climates. Even in their dry season, it can still rain in the evenings. The best item for this is a pac-a-mac style waterproof. A really super lightweight one that folds away into a little bag. They don't take up much room, they're not heavy, they don't make you sweat but they will keep you dry in the tropical rains.
2- strong bug spray
Don't rely on the local bug spray. From my past experiences they do not work, they mosquitos get used to the local sprays and become immune to them. Bring bug spray with you, a well known brand and a variety in strengths. If you buy jungle formula get the highest level (4) and a medium one (2). If you get lifesystems spray (which is what I use) got a 50+ deet one and the jungle extreme 100+ deet. This way you can protect yourself when needed, with the correct strength. If you go jungle trekking use the stronger spray, for in the cities use the less intense spray.
3- tissues
Go to 7 11 and buy either a pack of tissues or the individually wrapped toilet roll. Not all public toilets have toilet roll so it's best to always have a backup in your bag.
4- factor 50
Again, bring this with you, it'll be cheaper than buying it in Thailand. I highly recommend a high factor (30 and above) and to put it on every morning, regardless of the clouds, as the UV rays are still very strong.
Apply your suncream first, let it soak in for around 15-30 minutes and then apply your bug spray. Reapply throughout the day as needed.
5- water shoes
I didn't have any water shoes, they weren't on my shopping list, they never even crossed my mind. My boyfriend bought me a pair for my birthday and they were so useful that I can't believe I was going to backpack without them! Amazing for beaches, snorkeling and waterfall exploring as they protect your feet from sharp rocks and make navigating the pebble beaches much easier.
I didn't wear my water shoes for 1 snorkeling trip and I ended up with 3 injuries on my feet! I highly, highly recommend them.
What I packed
As I'm travelling for quite a while, I packed a variety of clothes for multiple seasons.
Clothes wise I packed about 6 shirts, 4 vests, a hoodie, a long sleeved shirt and 3 button up shirts. 5 pairs of trousers, 3 skirts and 1 pair of shorts. 3 dresses and 3 swim sets. 8 pairs of pants, 4 bras and 4 pairs of socks. Walking trainers, flip flops, water shoes and converse.
I also packed a micro travel towel, my camera, a power bank, adapter, my kindle, solid shampoo/conditioner, shower gel, razor, hair bobbles, reusable ear buds, nail clippers, a first aid kit, collapsable tupperware, filter water bottle and reusable cutlery.
What I wish I packed
Better flip flops for sure. I lived in them but the ones I brought with me are cheap ones that started to break after a few wears.
More swimwear. Again, I lived in my swimsuits in Thailand so a few more bottoms/swimming shorts would have been great.
A bum bag! I ended up buying one and it's been the most useful thing ever and I wish I had it from the start. They're great for the planes as you can keep your passport and boarding pass to hand.
What I regret packing
A hoodie. Straight up. It was so pointless, I still haven't worn it yet. I probably will in Aus as it's a little chilly in the evenings over there at this time of the year. If you are just doing Thailand or South East Asia, don't pack a hoodie.
More trousers and less shorts. I only took 1 pair of shorts, chub rub is real and I usually wear trousers to avoid that, but there were times where I could have done with just a little pair of shorts to chuck on (like after a hostel shower, or chilling by the pool).
Do you have any suggestions for SEA? What did you find was your most used item? What did you regret taking? Drop a comment down below and follow for more here on wix blogs, over on Tik Tok @travelbeeblog or Instagram @bilbo.h
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