Are you wondering what to wear in Thailand? Thailand has pretty constant weather year-round but the combination of heat and humidity can make it a tricky place to pack for. In this guide, we will cover what to wear in Thailand in Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall as well as for specific destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai and beyond.
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Weather in Thailand
No matter what time of year you are visiting Thailand you can expect quite consistent temperatures. In fact no matter the month you visit the average highs are between 32C/89.6F to 35C/95. Technically Winter (classified as December, January or February) is the coldest time to visit with Spring (March, April, May and June) usually being the warmest.
However it is also worth nothing that there are two distinct seasons in Thailand – the wet season and the dry season.
The rainy or monsoon season throughout Thailand is classified as July, August, September and October while the dry season starts in November and ends by June.
If you are travelling during the monsoon season it is definitely worth packing some lightweight waterproofs and clothes made of quick dry fabrics.
Are you traveling elsewhere in Asia? Check out our other guides:
Thailand Dress Codes
Most places in Thailand do not have a formal dress code. There will be some more upscale restaurants in the cities that may have smart casual dress codes, but for the most part dress codes shouldn’t be your primary concern when packing for Thailand.
However if you plan on visiting temples or the Grand Palace in Bangkok on your visit you will want to have one more conservative outfit with you that doesn’t bear a lot of skins. It is not unheard of for people wearing mini skirts and revealing outfits to be denied entry.
Tips for how to dress in Thailand
Anyone who has lived in or visited Thailand will tell you that heat and high humidity have to the primary concern of your packing list. For this reason, you should stick to lots of natural fabrics such as linen, silk and cotton to help cope with the weather conditions. Man-made fabrics will not be your friend in Thailand.
It is also a good idea to have a top layer with you for going inside restaurants and malls where there is likely to be fierce air conditioning.
And finally, it is worth always having some waterproof shoes and a very lightweight waterproof jacket with you in Vietnam during the wet season.
What to wear in Thailand Year Round
So what should you wear in Thailand year round?
Maxi Dresses and Skirts
A Maxi dress is a staple of my Thailand packing lists. I try and pick one made of a natural fabric such as cotton or linen so it is more breathable.
Also I usually pack a dress that doesn’t have a slit and has cap sleeves to make it suitable for visiting temples and the Grand Palace as well useful for beaches.
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Cardigan
It might sound strange to be heading to a country that is renowned for hot and humid weather daytime but I recommend taking a cardigan but I am.
The reason is because the indoor venues in Vietnam have strong air conditioning.
T Shirts / blouse
A T Shirt /blouse made of natural fabric is a great staple, especially for days when you will spend lots of time outside such as at elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, the beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui and at Thailand’s amazing national parks.
Linen Trousers
If you do plan on going to some more upscale restaurants we recommend packing a smarter pair of linen trousers to pair with a blouse. These will keep you cool but also be stylish enough for places with dress codes.
Swimwear
With the heat and humidity a dip in a pool can be a great way to cool off after a day of sightseeing. Personally, I prefer to wear a one-piece or a bikini rather than a thong-cut bikini as you will find the styles in Thailand more conservative.
Shorts
Shorts are a good pick for beaches and for days exploring national parks and elephant sanctuaries. Running shorts and quick dry shorts are a great pick in the heat. I personally try and avoid denim shorts as they are uncomfortable in the heat.
Hiking Trousers and long sleeve shirt
If you want to go hiking in one of the national parks we recommend packing some hiking trousers and a long sleeve top that will protect you from insects.
I like to have convertible hiking trousers that can be worn as both trousers and shorts.
Sandals
Sandals are a great pick for Thailand. I like to pick a pair that are good for walking but can also be used in more upscale restaurants and bars where you may need a smart casual outfit.
Sneakers
- adidas womens Sneaker
Our go to brands are:
- Hoka,
- Sketchers Go Walks or
- All Birds
Click here to shop good sneakers
We recommend sticking with a lightweight pair of sneakers that will cope well with the heat.
Flip Flops
Although the most important shoes for Thailand are definitely sandals and sneakers, you may also want to pack a pair of flip flops with you for wondering around the pool and beach.
Underwear
This goes without saying.
Pashmina
For any trip to Thailand whatever time of year you are traveling we recommend taking a pashmina as it is a handy extra layer if you are somewhere with lots of air con.
Pyjamas
Sun hat
The sun is very strong in Thailand all year round so to protect your face from the sun while walking around the city and for hanging out on the beach.
Sunglasses
Sun safety in Thailand is very important so be sure to pack a good pair of sunglasses that have good UV Protection.
What to Pack for Thailand for Men
If you are a man traveling to Thailand then you will want to pack:
Cotton / Linen Pants
These are better for dealing with the heat
T Shirts
T Shirts are appropriate throughout Thailand for men.
Shorts
Shorts are great for anyone who wants to spend time outdoors in Thailand.
Shirts
While T shirts are appropriate in most public places, button down shirts should be added to your packing list if you plan on eating at some of Thailand’s fine dining establishments.
Hiking Outfit
If you plan on visiting a national park or do any hiking in Thailand we recommend having some long hiking pants and long sleeve tops with you that will protect you from bugs.
Sandals
Sandals are appropriate for men as well as women.
Sneakers
Sneakers are great for the days you plan on doing lots of walking in Thailand.
Flip Flops
Again if you are at the beach and hotel, you may if you have room want to add some flip flops to your packing list too.
Thailand Packing List (non clothing)
Now we have covered the clothes you should pack for Thailand, we will look at the non-clothing items to put on your Thailand packing list:
- Documents
- Crossbody bag – anti theft type – my favorite brand is Travelon.
- Suncream – with a high SPF
- Insect Repellant – a strong one is recommend.
- Aloe Vera
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Toiletries
- Medication and their related prescriptions
- First Aid Kit
- Water bottle – it is important to stay hydrated in Thailand
- Cooling Towel
- Quick Dry Towel
FAQs
What to wear in Bangkok?
There aren’t many dress codes in Bangkok outside of temples and the Grand Palace. However you will find lots of long loose clothing made of natural fabrics are best for the weather.
What to wear in Phuket and Koh Samui?
Phuket and Koh Samui are renowned for their beautiful beaches. The resort beaches are pretty liberal so you can wear the style of swimsuit you are most comfortable in.
What else would you add to this Thailand packing list?