Bolaven Plateau, Laos: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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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, 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

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.

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