Chiang Mai Province, Thailand: 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 Chiang Mai Province, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Chiang Mai Province, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

Based on the climate and weather in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Chiang Mai Province, Thailand by month

January

January in Chiang Mai Province is pretty consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s 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 frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you go to Chiang Mai Province in February, you will notice that it is consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you 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

  • 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. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

March

If you vacation in Chiang Mai Province during March, you are likely to see that it is sizzling and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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

April

If you visit Chiang Mai Province during April, you are likely to see that it can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • 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 Chiang Mai Province. 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you locate 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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 and O. Take care to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs 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 countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

May

In May, Chiang Mai Province can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (low 30s C) and about half of the time jump into the 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Chiang Mai Province, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

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 Chiang Mai Province. 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 locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

June in Chiang Mai Province is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 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 always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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.

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 support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

July

July in Chiang Mai Province can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds 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 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 Chiang Mai Province. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs 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 locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

August

Traveling to Chiang Mai Province in August, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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 pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to choose the right type. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

In September, Chiang Mai Province is really hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Chiang Mai Province, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

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 Chiang Mai Province. 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in this region is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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 frequently losing bags nowadays, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 visit Chiang Mai Province during November, you are likely to see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Chiang Mai Province. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

December

If you go to Chiang Mai Province in December, you will notice that it is hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai Province. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

What to do in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

Chiang Mai Province in Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its rich culture, beautiful temples, and scenic natural attractions. Here are the top tourist attractions in Chiang Mai Province that you should consider visiting.

1. Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is a mountain that provides a stunning panoramic view of Chiang Mai Province. It is home to the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 14th century. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and is said to house a relic of the Lord Buddha. Visitors can climb the 300 steps or take a cable car to reach the temple and enjoy the view.

2. Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai's Old City is a walled area that was once the heart of the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom. It is home to many beautiful temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. Visitors can also explore the old city's narrow streets, shopping centers, and night markets.

3. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a popular shopping destination that offers a variety of products, including handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The market is open every night from 6 pm to midnight and is a great place to experience authentic Thai street food.

4. Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary for elephants, rescued from abusive situations, and offers visitors the opportunity to interact with these gentle giants. Visitors can feed and bathe the elephants while learning about their history and behavior.

5. Chiang Mai Grand Canyon

The Chiang Mai Grand Canyon is a popular swimming and hiking destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The canyon is a former quarry that has filled with water, creating an exciting swimming adventure for visitors.

6. Mae Sa Waterfall

Mae Sa Waterfall is a beautiful natural attraction located in the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. The waterfall has several levels and is surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can swim in the cool waters, have a picnic, or take a guided hike to explore the surrounding area.

7. Chiang Mai Street Art

Chiang Mai is home to a thriving street art scene. Visitors can explore the city and discover colorful murals and graffiti art that depict the city's culture and history.

In conclusion, Chiang Mai Province has many tourist attractions that offer visitors an opportunity to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of Thailand. Whether you're interested in temples, shopping, or engaging with elephants, Chiang Mai has something for everyone.

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: Riebeek-Kasteel, South Africa, Saint Jean de Luz, France, Takachiho, Japan, Seneca Falls, New York, United States of America, Vanadzor, Armenia, Nagu, Finland, Gdańsk, Poland, Louisiade Archipelago, Papua New Guinea, Sarnen, Switzerland, Manovo-Gounda St.

Floris National Park, Central African Republic, and Madison, Kentucky, United States of America.