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 Northern Thailand, Thailand? If you're planning to go to Northern Thailand, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Northern Thailand
- Important essentials for Northern Thailand
- Activities for Northern Thailand
- Northern Thailand in January: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in February: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in March: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in April: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in May: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in June: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in July: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in August: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in September: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in October: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in November: weather and what to pack
- Northern Thailand in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Northern Thailand, Thailand
Based on the climate and weather in Northern Thailand, Thailand, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Northern Thailand, Thailand
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Northern Thailand, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Northern Thailand, Thailand by month
January
Traveling to Northern Thailand in January, you will notice that it is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large 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
February
If you are traveling to Northern Thailand in February, you will notice that it can be sweltering 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
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold 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 is sufficent for most places.
March
If you vacation in Northern Thailand during March, you may see that it is unbearably hot and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
this
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered for cooling:
Skirts
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure bring additional, since these often get wet or dirty.
Protecting legwear
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to cool you and to provide UV protection.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug 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 available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
April
If you vacation in Northern Thailand during April, you will probably find that it can be sizzling. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure pack extra, since these get wet or dirty.
this
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Waterproof sandals
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to cool you and offer UV protection.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered for cooling:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, 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 stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Check that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers 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 countries.
May
If you visit Northern Thailand during May, you will probably notice that it is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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. Take care to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
June
If you vacation in Northern Thailand during June, you are likely to find that it is really hot. 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). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
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 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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 penalties with this
Travel neck support 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
July
In July, Northern Thailand is consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Northern Thailand, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
August
If you vacation in Northern Thailand during August, you are likely to see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Bug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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 belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Take care to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
September
If you vacation in Northern Thailand during September, you are likely to find that it is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
What we like 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
October
October here is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is 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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being 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.
November
If you are traveling to Northern Thailand in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 neck pillow
A good option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available 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 should be appropriate for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
December
Traveling to Northern Thailand in December, you will notice that it is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in 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.
Given current world events, Thailand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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 step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and O. Make sure to choose the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect 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.
What to do in Northern Thailand, Thailand
Northern Thailand is a region that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery and vibrant cities that are full of history and tradition. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or a mix of both, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Northern Thailand. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you shouldn't miss out on when visiting this amazing region.
1. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations. The city boasts a rich history and cultural heritage and is famous for its stunning temples and bustling night markets. Some of the top attractions include the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, the Chiang Mai Old City, the Wat Chedi Luang Temple and the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.
2. Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is another popular destination in Northern Thailand and is known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning temples. One of the top attractions in Chiang Rai is the White Temple, which is a unique and beautiful temple that is decorated entirely in white. Other popular attractions in the area include the Black House Museum, the Doi Tung Royal Project and the Mae Sai Border Market.
3. Pai
The town of Pai is a hidden gem in Northern Thailand and is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful scenery and vibrant nightlife. The town is surrounded by mountains and is a great destination for outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling and rafting. Some of the top attractions in Pai include the Pai Canyon, the Pai Walking Street Night Market and the Pai Hot Springs.
4. Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son is a small town located in a valley surrounded by mountains and is known for its stunning scenery and beautiful temples. Some of the top attractions in Mae Hong Son include the Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu Temple, the Long Neck Karen Village and the Mae Hong Son Memorial Bridge.
5. Sukhothai Historical Park
The Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the ruins of the ancient city of Sukhothai. The park is one of the top tourist attractions in Northern Thailand and is a must-visit destination for history lovers. The park is home to more than 193 temples and monuments and is a great destination for those interested in history and architecture.
In conclusion, Northern Thailand is a region that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to explore stunning temples, relax in beautiful natural landscapes or experience vibrant city life, Northern Thailand is sure to capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, if you're planning a trip to Thailand, be sure to include Northern Thailand on your itinerary!

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: Bakkhali, India, Ustka, Poland, Normanton, Queensland, Australia, Vișeu de Sus, Romania, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, India, Popoyo, Nicaragua, Rajgir, India, The Entrance, New South Wales, Australia, Promiri, Greece, Severna Park, Maryland, United States of America, and Kaghan, Pakistan.