Chiang Mai, Thailand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Chiang Mai, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chiang Mai, Thailand

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you visit Chiang Mai during January, you may see that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices 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

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

Traveling to Chiang Mai in February, you will notice that it is extremely 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

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • 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 recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

Traveling to Chiang Mai in March, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • 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. 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers 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 support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Chiang Mai can be blisteringly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 90s F (mid 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • 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. 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 find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

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 and O. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

In May, Chiang Mai is extremely hot 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, 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

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you get the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect 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 locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

If you go to Chiang Mai in June, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

If you visit Chiang Mai during July, you are likely to see that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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 additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

In August, Chiang Mai can be very hot. 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, with most of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to find the correct type. Most adapters on sale 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 places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September for Chiang Mai is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. 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

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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 and O. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

October in Chiang Mai is really hot. 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), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

If you go to Chiang Mai in November, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is 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

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

If you go to Chiang Mai in December, you will notice that it is pretty consistently 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

    Thailand has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chiang Mai. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics 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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you plan to visit Mae Sa Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, a city located in Northern Thailand, is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Chiang Mai offers a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Chiang Mai.

1. Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is a mountain located about 15 kilometers away from Chiang Mai, and it is a popular destination for visitors seeking breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can take a scenic drive up the mountain or hike up a picturesque trail to reach the temple at the top of the mountain. The temple, called Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, is one of the most revered and sacred temples in Thailand and features an intricately decorated gold-plated pagoda.

2. Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar is a bustling marketplace that operates every day and is a must-visit for travelers looking to experience the local culture or pick up a souvenir. With over hundreds of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts, jewelry, clothes, and tasty street food, visitors will undoubtedly find something that catches their eye.

3. Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary for elephants who have been rescued from various exploitative situations, such as logging or the tourism industry. Visitors can learn about the elephants' histories and spend time with them, feeding them and even bathing them in the river. This experience provides a unique opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close while supporting a worthwhile cause.

4. Chiang Mai Old City

The old city of Chiang Mai is a walled district filled with numerous temples, museums, and historical sites. Visitors can rent a bicycle and explore the area at their leisure, taking in the sights and sounds of the charming and quaint streets while immersing themselves in the city's rich cultural heritage.

5. Baan Kang Wat

Baan Kang Wat is a small artist village located just outside the city, featuring numerous studios and galleries specializing in various artistic mediums such as ceramics, painting, and printmaking. Visitors can witness the artists at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs to take home.

In conclusion, Chiang Mai offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences for travelers, making it a must-visit destination in Thailand. With its stunning temples, vibrant night bazaar, and diverse range of activities available, Chiang Mai is a destination that is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

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: Poulton-le-Fylde, England, United Kingdom, Lizard Island, Queensland, Australia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia, Caldera, Chile, Nalanda, India, Häusern, Germany, Temagami, Quebec, Canada, Montgomery, New York, United States of America, Roundwood, Ireland, Kediri, Indonesia, and Shei-pa National Park, Taiwan.