Central Isaan, Thailand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Central Isaan, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Central Isaan, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Central Isaan, Thailand

Based on the climate and weather in Central Isaan, Thailand, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Central Isaan, Thailand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Central Isaan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Central Isaan, Thailand by month

January

January here can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • 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 Central Isaan. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you visit Central Isaan during February, you might notice that it is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you go to Central Isaan in March, you will notice that it is sizzling and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently available 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 work in most places.

April

If you go to Central Isaan in April, you will notice that it can be sizzling. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand 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 find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • 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 Central Isaan. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

May

May in Central Isaan can be excruciatingly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • 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 and O. Make sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • 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 pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

June

In June, Central Isaan is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Central Isaan, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

July

July in Central Isaan can be sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you visit Central Isaan during August, you are likely to notice that it can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 things recently, 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

  • 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 pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

In September, Central Isaan is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) and regularly jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Central Isaan, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

October

October in Central Isaan can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • 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 and O. Take care to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

November

November in this region can be very hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you visit Central Isaan during December, you may notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Thailand 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Isaan. 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 neck support pillow

    A versatile choice 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

What to do in Central Isaan, Thailand

Central Isaan, also known as the Northeastern region of Thailand, is filled with intriguing cultural experiences and stunning natural scenery. This area is home to bustling cities like Khon Kaen and Udon Thani, as well as tranquil rural villages surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. For those looking to explore the best that Central Isaan has to offer, the following are some of the top tourist attractions to put on your must-visit list.

1. Phu Kradueng National Park: Located in the province of Loei, this national park is a hiker’s paradise with an abundance of scenic trails leading to waterfalls, viewpoints, and lush forests. The highlight of the park is Phu Kradueng Mountain, which boasts a steep climb but rewards visitors with panoramic views from the summit.

2. Ban Chiang Archaeological Site: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for history buffs; it is home to some of the oldest archaeological evidence of bronze and iron production in Southeast Asia. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and artifacts, dating back over 5,000 years.

3. Wat Phra That Phanom: This Buddhist temple is one of the most revered in Thailand, with a golden chedi towering over the surrounding countryside. The temple is a pilgrimage site for many Thai people, who come to pay their respects to the sacred relic believed to be housed within.

4. Sala Keo Ku Sculpture Park: Located in Nong Khai Province, this park is filled with towering sculptures created by the late artist Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat. The sculptures are a mixture of Buddhist and Hindu deities, and visitors are sure to be awed by their intricate designs.

5. Khon Kaen National Museum: This museum is a treasure trove of information on the history and culture of Isaan, featuring exhibits on everything from ancient civilizations to modern-day cultural practices. There are also exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts as well.

6. Phimai Historical Park: This ancient Khmer temple complex is a well-preserved example of the region’s rich heritage, and warrants a visit for anyone interested in Southeast Asian history. Explore the intricate carvings and towering spires of the temples, and imagine what life was like when they were first built.

7. Bueng Kan Province: This province is still relatively unknown to foreign tourists, but is worth the trip for its stunning natural scenery and friendly locals. Visitors can explore the province’s many waterfalls, lakes, and national parks, or simply take in the laid-back atmosphere of rural life.

Central Isaan is a region filled with hidden gems, from ancient temples to natural wonders. If you’re looking to experience the authentic charms of Thailand, away from the crowds of the tourist hotspots, this is the place to be.

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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