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

Contents

  1. When to go to Lower Northern Thailand
  2. Important essentials for Lower Northern Thailand
  3. Activities for Lower Northern Thailand
  4. Lower Northern Thailand in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Lower Northern Thailand in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Lower Northern Thailand in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Lower Northern Thailand in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Lower Northern Thailand in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Lower Northern Thailand in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Lower Northern Thailand in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Lower Northern Thailand in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Lower Northern Thailand in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Lower Northern Thailand in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Lower Northern Thailand in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Lower Northern Thailand in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Lower Northern Thailand, Thailand

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

What to wear/what to pack for Lower Northern Thailand, Thailand

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Lower Northern Thailand, Thailand by month

January

If you go to Lower Northern Thailand in January, you will notice that it is constantly 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 Lower Northern Thailand. 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 always losing things these days, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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 and O. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you visit Lower Northern Thailand during February, you might see that it is extremely hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply 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 countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

March

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

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you get the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in Lower Northern Thailand is a scorcher. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) to high 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you vacation in Lower Northern Thailand during May, you might notice that it can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 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.

  • 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 Lower Northern Thailand. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • 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 neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

June

If you visit Lower Northern Thailand during June, you are likely to see that it can be very 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, 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 stuff.

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you go to Lower Northern Thailand in July, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. 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

    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 Lower Northern Thailand. 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 always losing luggage recently, 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 stuff.

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. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you get the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you go to Lower Northern Thailand in August, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. 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

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September in Lower Northern Thailand is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, 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 Lower Northern Thailand. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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 pillow

    A good option is this one

October

If you vacation in Lower Northern Thailand during October, you are likely to see that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 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 a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. 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 pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

November

If you go to Lower Northern Thailand in November, you will notice that it is really hot and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain sometimes. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

December

December here is consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lower Northern Thailand. 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.

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

What to do in Lower Northern Thailand, Thailand

Lower Northern Thailand is a magnificent and culturally rich region of Thailand. Located near the border of Laos, the area boasts of charming hill tribes and stunning landscapes. If you are looking for an adventure vacation and wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, Lower Northern Thailand should definitely be on your itinerary.

Let’s have a closer look at the top tourist attractions Lower Northern Thailand has to offer.

1. Chiang Mai City – The city of Chiang Mai is a must-visit when you are in Lower Northern Thailand. It is the second-largest city in the country and is always bustling with tourists. Chiang Mai is known for its fascinating temples, brilliant skyline views, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Walking through the Sunday night market is an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists alike.

2. Elephant Nature Park – If you want to have an authentic experience with elephants in Thailand, then Elephant Nature Park is the place to visit in Lower Northern Thailand. The park is based around a sanctuary for rescued elephants located in the Mae Teng Valley. You can feed, bathe, and even observe the elephants in their natural habitat.

3. Doi Inthanon National Park – Doi Inthanon National Park is located in the Chiang Mai province and is known for its stunning peaks, waterfalls, and lush green forests. The park is home to several hill tribes and is an excellent destination for trekking, canoeing and white-water rafting.

4. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep - Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-visit Buddhist temple located near the city of Chiang Mai. You will be impressed with the architectural design of the temple and its stunning views of the surrounding valley.

5. Sukhothai Historical Park – Sukhothai Historical Park is situated in the upper north of Thailand and is an essential stop off for history buffs visiting Lower Northern Thailand. The 800-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site is home to various ruins and architectural sites of the Sukhothai era.

6. Mae Hong Son – Mae Hong Son is a tranquil and relaxing destination located in a remote region of Thailand. The city is surrounded by mountains and is an excellent spot for hiking enthusiasts.

Lower Northern Thailand has something for everyone, from history lovers to nature enthusiasts. It is a road less traveled by the majority of tourists and a hidden gem in Thailand’s crown. So, be prepared to be surprised, challenge your limits, and get ready to be amazed by the beauty of Lower Northern Thailand.

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: Osasco, São Paulo, Brazil, Söderåsen National Park, Sweden, Pilar, Paraguay, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, Northern suburbs of Stockholm, Sweden, Jamnagar, India, Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America, Torba, Vanuatu, Oranjemund, Namibia, Culloden, Scotland, United Kingdom, and Mahabaleshwar, India.