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

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Ready to pack for Isaan, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Isaan, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Isaan, Thailand

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

What to wear/what to pack for Isaan, Thailand

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you visit Isaan during January, you might notice that it can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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 things 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

March

Traveling to 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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 repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you visit Isaan during April, you might notice that it can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (high 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 occasionally.

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 always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently available 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 works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option 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

May

If you go to Isaan in May, you will notice that it is sizzling. Expect it to rain occasionally. 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.

  • 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can help you 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 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

  • 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 right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you vacation in Isaan during June, you are likely to see that it is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s 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 5-10 days this month.

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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you vacation in Isaan during July, you will probably notice that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 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 a third 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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 airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

August

If you are traveling to Isaan in August, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third 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

    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 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • 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 penalties with this

September

If you visit Isaan during September, you might find 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 low 70s F (low 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Most 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 burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

If you go to Isaan in October, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • 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

    Our fave is this one

November

If you vacation in Isaan during November, you will probably see that it can be sweltering and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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.

  • 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 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

Traveling to Isaan in December, you will notice that it can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 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 repeatedly losing things recently, 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to pick the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

What to do in Isaan, Thailand

Isaan, located in the northeastern region of Thailand, may not be as popular as its neighboring regions, but it has a wealth of charm and unique experiences to offer visitors. The region is known for its cultural heritage, ancient temples, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Here are some top tourist attractions to visit in Isaan, Thailand.

1. Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is the third largest national park in Thailand, and it boasts over 2,000 square kilometers of dense forests, spectacular waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife. It is home to many species of animals, such as elephants, gibbons, and tigers. Visiting the park is a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of Isaan.

2. Phimai Historical Park

Phimai Historical Park is one of the most impressive Khmer temples in Thailand. The temple dates back to the 11th century and is located in the town of Phimai, around 60 km from Nakhon Ratchasima. The complex offers visitors a glimpse of ancient Khmer architecture and has a fascinating history.

3. Wat Phra That Phanom

Wat Phra That Phanom is a renowned temple located in the city of Nakhon Phanom. The temple is believed to house a relic of the Buddha and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in Thailand. It has a unique architectural style and attracts visitors from all over the world.

4. The Mekong River

The Mekong River travels through the heart of Isaan, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the stunning surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a fishing trip, take a boat to visit the local villages, or simply relax on the banks of the river for a sunset picnic.

5. Pha Taem National Park

Pha Taem National Park is located close to the border of Laos, and it is a nature reserve famous for its stunning rock formations and prehistoric cave paintings. The park is home to rare and delicate flora and fauna, plus some unusual species of birds and butterflies.

6. Silk Villages

Isaan is famous for its silk production, and the region has several silk villages where visitors can learn about the traditional weaving techniques and observe the creation of this delicate and intricate fabric. One of these villages is located in Nong Khai, where you can witness the making of silk products that are sold worldwide.

7. Local Cuisine

The local cuisine of Isaan is a highlight of the region. Visitors can’t leave without trying some of the spicy and flavorful dishes that aren’t easy to find elsewhere in Thailand. Favorites include som tam (spicy papaya salad), laap (spicy meat salad), and sticky rice.

In conclusion, Isaan is a region with a lot to offer tourists. From stunning natural landscapes to ancient temples, visitors will fall in love with Isaan. This region is a must-see for anyone looking for an authentic Thai cultural experience.

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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