Lower Northern Thailand, Thailand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Lower Northern Thailand, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Lower Northern Thailand, here 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

January can be very 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

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • 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

  • 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. It's important that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

February

If you visit Lower Northern Thailand during February, you might notice 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

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

March

March in this region can be blisteringly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) 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.

  • 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 locate 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

Traveling to Lower Northern Thailand in April, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 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 help you locate it anywhere anywhere: 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to get the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate 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. Avoid penalties with this

May

If you are traveling to Lower Northern Thailand in May, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find 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 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

  • 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

  • Travel neck 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 necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

June

In June, Lower Northern Thailand can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Lower Northern Thailand, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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.

  • 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 stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

July

July in Lower Northern Thailand is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, 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.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold 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 is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

August

In August, Lower Northern Thailand is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Lower Northern Thailand, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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

  • 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 airports always losing luggage these days, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

September for Lower Northern Thailand is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half 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.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

October

Traveling to Lower Northern Thailand in October, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than 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.

  • 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 anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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. Check that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours 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 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

November

Traveling to Lower Northern Thailand in November, you will notice that it can be sweltering 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

    Thailand has some specific safety 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 airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you vacation in Lower Northern Thailand during December, you will probably notice that it is extremely hot and very dry with almost no 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

    Thailand has some specific safety 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 airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Check that you pick the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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.

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