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

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Ready to pack for Central Laos, Laos? If you're planning to go to Central Laos, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Central Laos, Laos

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

What to wear/what to pack for Central Laos, Laos

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Central Laos, Laos by month

January

If you are traveling to Central Laos in January, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Laos. 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you are traveling to Central Laos in February, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Laos. 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 help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Make sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

March

March can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

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 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 Laos. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast 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 burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April for Central Laos is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Laos. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

May

May in this region can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Laos. 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 top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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, E and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

June

June for Central Laos can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Laos. 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 on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Check that you find the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

July

If you go to Central Laos in July, you will notice that it is constantly 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Laos. 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.

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

August

If you go to Central Laos in August, you will notice that it is consistently 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 Central Laos. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support 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. It's important that you get the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

September

September can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Laos. 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 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

October for Central Laos is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Laos. 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 repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate 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. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice 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

November

If you are traveling to Central Laos in November, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Central Laos. 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.

  • 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like 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. Save money with this

December

If you go to Central Laos in December, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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 Laos. 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Central Laos, Laos

Central Laos is a stunning region of the country, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. It has some of the most spectacular landscapes in Laos, with lush forests, meandering rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, and fascinating temples. So whether you are an adventure seeker, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, there's something for everyone in Central Laos.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions not to miss in Central Laos:

1. Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a small town situated on the Nam Song River and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It is a popular destination for backpackers and adventure seekers and offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities such as kayaking, tubing, rock climbing, and caving. The town has a laid-back atmosphere, with many cafes and restaurants catering to tourists.

2. Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site, located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. It is one of the best-preserved traditional cities in Southeast Asia, with many Buddhist temples, colonial buildings, and traditional wooden houses. The city is also renowned for its night market, which sells a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

3. Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars

Phonsavan is the gateway to one of the most mysterious and enigmatic sites in Laos - the Plain of Jars. The Plain of Jars is a vast archaeological site, comprising over 2,000 stone jars of various sizes scattered across the landscape. The purpose and origin of the jars are still unknown, and they remain one of the most intriguing mysteries of ancient Southeast Asia.

4. Tham Kong Lo

Tham Kong Lo is a spectacular limestone cave situated in the district of Khammouane. It is one of the largest and most awe-inspiring caves in Laos, with a length of over seven kilometers. Visitors can explore the cave on a boat ride and see the impressive stalagmites and stalactites that adorn the walls and ceilings.

5. Bolaven Plateau

The Bolaven Plateau is a verdant, mountainous region in southern Laos, renowned for its scenic waterfalls, coffee plantations, and traditional villages. It is an excellent destination for trekking, cycling, and exploring the natural beauty of Laos. Some of the must-visit waterfalls on the Bolaven Plateau include Tad Fane, Tad Lo, and Tad Yuang.

In conclusion, Central Laos is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the stunning landscapes of Vang Vieng to the mysterious Plain of Jars, there's something for every traveler in this fascinating region of Laos. So if you're planning a trip to Laos, be sure to include Central Laos on your itinerary - you won't be disappointed!

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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