Bolaven Plateau, Laos: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Bolaven Plateau, Laos? If you're planning to go to Bolaven Plateau, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Bolaven Plateau
- Important essentials for Bolaven Plateau
- Activities for Bolaven Plateau
- Bolaven Plateau in January: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in February: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in March: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in April: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in May: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in June: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in July: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in August: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in September: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in October: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in November: weather and what to pack
- Bolaven Plateau in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Bolaven Plateau, Laos
Based on the climate and weather in Bolaven Plateau, Laos, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Bolaven Plateau, Laos
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Bolaven Plateau, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Bolaven Plateau, Laos by month
January
If you go to Bolaven Plateau in January, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Check that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
February
February here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be careful to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
March
March for Bolaven Plateau dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
April can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to cool you:
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to pack additional, as these get wet or dirty.
- this
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
UV protecting legwear
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created for cooling and to provide UV protection.
Insulated water bottle
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Check that you choose the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
May
If you go to Bolaven Plateau in May, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be careful to choose the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
June in Bolaven Plateau is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Skirts
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
July
If you go to Bolaven Plateau in July, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
August in Bolaven Plateau can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be sure to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
September
If you are traveling to Bolaven Plateau in September, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
October
October can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to find the right type. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
If you are traveling to Bolaven Plateau in November, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
December
December in this region dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bolaven Plateau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in Bolaven Plateau, Laos
Bolaven Plateau in Southern Laos is a hidden gem that should be on every traveler's itinerary. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, coffee plantations, ethnic villages and pristine natural beauty, Bolaven Plateau has quickly become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Laos. Here are some of the top tourist attractions you should not miss when visiting Bolaven Plateau.
1. Tad Fane Waterfall: This magnificent waterfall is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bolaven Plateau. Tad Fane is a twin waterfall cascading down from a height of over 120 meters. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green tea and coffee plantations, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
2. Tad Yuang Waterfall: Tad Yuang is another stunning waterfall in Bolaven Plateau that is a must-visit attraction. Located deep inside the Bolaven Plateau, the waterfall cascades down from a height of over 40 meters through a scenic valley. Visitors can swim in the pool beneath the waterfall and enjoy the natural scenery around.
3. Ethnic Villages: Bolaven Plateau is home to several ethnic villages, each with its own distinct culture, traditions, and customs. The villages offer visitors an opportunity to experience traditional Laotian village life, explore local markets and buy local handicrafts.
4. Coffee Plantations: Bolaven Plateau is famous for its coffee plantations, known to produce some of the best coffee in Southeast Asia. Visitors can take coffee plantation tours to see the coffee-making process from start to finish and sample the different varieties of coffee on offer.
5. Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area: Established in 1993, the Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area is a vast protected area covering over 1,000 square kilometers. Visitors can explore the national park's diverse ecosystems, including waterfalls, rivers, forests and montane grasslands, and observe the park's rare wildlife and bird species.
6. Tad Lo: Tad Lo is a small town located on the banks of the Nam Xeuang River in Bolaven Plateau. The town is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning scenery, and outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling, and fishing. Visitors can also visit the local market and enjoy local Lao cuisine.
In conclusion, Bolaven Plateau is an idyllic travel destination for anyone looking to explore Laos and experience its unique culture and natural beauty. The region has something to offer for every type of traveler, from adventurous trekking to relaxing in beautiful waterfalls, coffee plantations, and traditional Laotian villages. Make sure to include the above attractions in your itinerary and explore them at your own pace.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Vaitheeswaran Koil, India, Vaitheeswaran Koil, India, Bahrain, Bahrain, Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa, Jiangxi, China, Alfred, Maine, United States of America, Greater Madison Area, Wisconsin, United States of America, Piran, Slovenia, Llandrindod Wells, Wales, United Kingdom, Sejny, Poland, and Mousehole, England, United Kingdom.