Dressing for Thailand’s Climate

Thailand is famous for having weather that is both extremely hot and humid; particularly during its monsoon season, conditions can also change very rapidly indeed. So if you want to stay comfortable while travelling there, the key words to bear in mind are light and breathable.

Hotter than Hot: Dealing with Humidity Too

Between March and June especially, temperatures can soar – meaning clothing made from materials like linen and (or) cotton which allow your skin to breathe is a must if you don’t fancy getting drenched in sweat that doesn’t then evaporate. It might also be worth considering garments designed to wick perspiration away from the body; these could prove invaluable should you wish to do lots of sightseeing during the daytime hours.

Rainy Days – Plus Seasonal Advice

Although monsoons officially last from July until October, don’t be surprised if it hammers down with rain at any given moment — and then stops as suddenly as it started! With this in mind, pack attire that is able to dry fast after a shower: for example, items manufactured from cotton mixes or synthetics (but not 100% denim). You’ll probably also appreciate having some kind of waterproofing on standby just in case things really do start to bucket…

Cultural Sensitivity and Modesty

While Thailand is relaxed about what tourists wear in most areas, certain places, especially religious sites, require more modest clothing. It’s important to respect the local culture by dressing appropriately when needed.

Temple Visits and Religious Sites

If you’re planning to visit temples or religious sites, be sure to pack clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Many temples won’t let you enter if you’re wearing revealing clothes like shorts or tank tops. A simple way to handle this is to carry a light scarf or shawl with you. You can easily wrap it around your shoulders or waist when needed. Long skirts, trousers, or maxi dresses work well, as they keep you covered and comfortable.

City vs. Beach Attire

When you’re on the beach, swimsuits and cover-ups are perfect. Just remember to cover up when you leave the sand. Walking around in just a bikini is frowned upon in most places. In cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, casual but smart clothing works well. Think light trousers, nice tops, or casual dresses. When dining out or visiting bars, smart-casual clothing is a good choice. Keep in mind that some high-end restaurants or rooftop bars may have dress codes.

Footwear in Thailand

Make sure you pack comfortable footwear if you’re off on a trip to Thailand – there’s so much to see and you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking. And let us tell you right now: it gets hot there too.

Sandals which you can easily slip on and off are great if you’re planning to visit temples; you’ll need to cover up your feet each time you go inside. Trainers or sturdy walking shoes are perfect for sightseeing in towns or cities (especially if you want to cool off in a shopping mall). If you’re exploring forest trails or walking along beaches, you’ll be glad of some supportive sandals that protect your toes.

Items to Bring Along

Travelers heading to Thailand should consider bringing along some key items – they could make all the difference. Given that the sun is particularly strong (and can be a real problem), it’s worth making suitcase space for not only a good pair of shades but also a wide-brimmed hat: those UV rays are more vicious than you might think.

A light scarf or shawl is a seriously smart addition too: as well as keeping you warm on air-conditioned transport and covering your shoulders at religious sites, it’ll take up hardly any room in your daypack when not needed. Don’t miss out on a great opportunity just because there has been no water available so don’t forget either!

Packing for Outdoor Adventures

When heading into the great outdoors of this beautiful country — whether it’s trekking through jungles, hiking to waterfalls or visiting one of the many national parks — be sure to pack clothing that is suitable for physical exertion.

You’ll be more comfortable in quick-drying clothes that wick away moisture; these are good for when you work up a sweat. Also take some long sleeves and trousers: as well as protecting against sunburn these can help ward off mosquito bites too. Don’t forget insect repellent (it’s essential for trips into jungly areas); consider also throwing in a light waterproof jacket – temperatures can cool down after storms break or once the sun sets even on steamy days.

Nightlife and Evening Wear

Thailand is famous for its bustling nightlife so make sure you pack some appropriate evening attire. If you’re planning to hit the town for a meal at a smart restaurant, go upmarket drinks at a rooftop bar or just want to wear something other than shorts to the night market then you’ll fit in better wearing smart-casual clothes.

For chaps, lightweight trousers and a short-sleeved shirt will not only look good but also help you stay cool. Gals might want to choose a casual dress or a nice top with long shorts or a skirt — there’s no need for anything too formal though. That said, if you plan on going somewhere a bit swankier, you’ll feel more comfortable (and may even get better service) if you make a bit of an effort!

Conclusion

Heading to Thailand? Keep it basic. Just mix comfort with cultural smarts. Choose light clothes that breathe, so you stay cool – and dress respectfully when visiting religious sites. You’ll need wet-weather gear too; plus comfy shoes for hours of walking. With these in your backpack, you’re all set to have an amazing time!

For further ideas and encouragement for your next trip, why not follow Kerala Backpackers on social media? Happy travels!!!