Mae Hong Son, Thailand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Mae Hong Son, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Mae Hong Son, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mae Hong Son, Thailand

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

What to wear/what to pack for Mae Hong Son, Thailand

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Mae Hong Son, Thailand by month

January

January here is constantly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 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 Mae Hong Son. 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 things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available 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 countries.

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

February

February can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 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 Mae Hong Son. 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

March

Traveling to Mae Hong Son in March, you will notice that it can be excruciatingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • 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 airlines frequently losing luggage 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 Mae Hong Son. 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you pick the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

April

April in this region is a scorcher. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (mid 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find 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 Mae Hong Son. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

May

May in Mae Hong Son is sizzling. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to 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 Mae Hong Son. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently 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 is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

June

If you vacation in Mae Hong Son during June, you will probably see that it is extremely 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 regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, 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 Mae Hong Son. 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers 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 places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

July

July in Mae Hong Son can be very hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mae Hong Son. 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 choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

August

In August, Mae Hong Son can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and regularly jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Mae Hong Son, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

September

If you are traveling to Mae Hong Son in September, you will notice that it can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • 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 Mae Hong Son. 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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. It's important that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

October

Traveling to Mae Hong Son in October, you will notice that it can be very hot. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mae Hong Son. 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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. Take care to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

November

November here is extremely hot and dry with little 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.

  • 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 Mae Hong Son. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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 neck support pillow

    A good option is 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. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

December

If you vacation in Mae Hong Son during December, you are likely to find that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you plan to visit Pha Sua Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

Going to Fish Cave? You'll need:

What to do in Mae Hong Son, Thailand

Mae Hong Son is a hidden gem in Northern Thailand. Surrounded by stunning mountains and lush forests, this small town offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. From temples and hot springs to hill tribe villages and jungle treks, there are plenty of things to see and do in Mae Hong Son. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mae Hong Son:

1. Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is one of the most important temples in Mae Hong Son. With its stunning golden pagodas and intricate architecture, this temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Thai culture and religion. The temple also offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

2. Pang Ung

Often referred to as the "Switzerland of Thailand," Pang Ung is a picturesque lake surrounded by green hills and pine trees. This scenic spot is the perfect place for a leisurely picnic or a peaceful walk around the lake. Visitors can also rent boats and kayaks to explore the lake and its many islands.

3. Tham Pla Fish Cave

Located in the Doi Phu Kha National Park, Tham Pla Fish Cave is a unique natural attraction that is home to thousands of fish. Visitors can walk through a series of caves filled with clear water and watch as the fish swim around them. It's a tranquil and memorable way to experience the beauty of nature.

4. Mae Hong Son Hill Tribe Villages

Mae Hong Son is home to a number of different hill tribe communities, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. Visitors can explore the villages, meet the locals, and learn about their way of life. The Karen, Hmong, and Lahu tribes are some of the most well-known in the region.

5. Mae Hong Son Hot Springs

Surrounded by lush forests, the Mae Hong Son Hot Springs are a beautiful and relaxing natural attraction. There are two major hot springs in the area, the Pong Dueat and the Pha Bong. Visitors can soak in the hot water, surrounded by beautiful scenery, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of these natural hot springs.

6. Pai Canyon

Located just a short drive from Mae Hong Son, Pai Canyon is a stunning natural attraction that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Visitors can take a scenic walk along the narrow ridges of the canyon and take in the stunning scenery.

In conclusion, Mae Hong Son offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to northern Thailand. From temples and hot springs to hill tribe villages and natural attractions, there's something for everyone in this beautiful town. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure in the wild, Mae Hong Son has it all.

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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