Pakse, Laos: 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 Pakse, Laos? If you're planning to go to Pakse, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Pakse, Laos

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

What to wear/what to pack for Pakse, Laos

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Pakse, Laos by month

January

January 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, Laos 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 Pakse. 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 in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Pakse in February, you will notice that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Pakse. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Check that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you are traveling to Pakse in March, you will notice that it is sweltering and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Check that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel 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

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Pakse is unbearably hot. 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, Laos 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 airlines repeatedly losing bags 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 Pakse. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Pakse during May, you may notice that it is constantly 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). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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, E and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Pakse in June, you will notice that it is consistently hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Pakse is consistently hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy 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 works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Pakse is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and 5-10 days this month 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 Pakse, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Pakse can be sweltering 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, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Pakse is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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 pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Make sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in this region is consistently 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, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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 frequently losing luggage nowadays, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December for Pakse is consistently 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, Laos has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Pakse. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Pakse, Laos

Pakse, the capital of Champasak province in southern Laos, is a charming city filled with a combination of traditional Laotian culture, breathtaking natural scenery, ancient ruins, and modern-day marvels. It attracts thousands of tourists annually who come to see the city's stunning temples and landmarks remarkable by their architectural design and historical richness.

Wat Phou Temple

Wat Phou Temple is undoubtedly the star attraction of Pakse. Located on the banks of the Mekong River and nestled amidst a backdrop of stunning mountains, this ancient Khmer Hindu temple complex is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in Laos. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its historical importance. Visitors to Wat Phou will see ancient ruins adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting mythological beasts and gods.

Xe Pian National Park

Xe Pian National Park is located about 30 km away from Pakse and is a popular destination for nature lovers looking to immerse in Laos's beauty. The park is characterized by a lush jungle of evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls, rivers, and stunning wildlife. Visitors can hike and cycle through the park's stunning scenery, spot wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and gibbons, and enjoy the park's unique eco-tourism attractions.

Ta Tai Waterfall

For a refreshing escape from the heat, the Ta Tai waterfall is an idyllic spot for picnics and swimming near Pakse. The waterfall is surrounded by jungle vegetation, and a small trek through the forested area brings visitors to the remarkable natural spectacle, a beautiful waterfall. A highlight of the attraction is the zip-lining and rope course dedicated to providing a more adventurous experience.

Don Kho Island

Don Kho Island sits in the Mekong River and is an enchanting spot that visitors shouldn't miss out on during their trip to Pakse. An hour from Pakse by boat will bring tourists to the peaceful yet picturesque island characterized by its friendly locals, serene temples, and affordable local restaurants.

Pakse Market

Pakse Market provides an opportunity for visitors to have an authentic Laotian shopping experience, similar to a Bazaar. This bustling marketplace sells every kind of product ranging from traditional Laotian textiles to freshly prepared street food. Apart from shopping, visitors can interact with the locals, learn traditional recipes, and experience the daily Laotian lifestyle.

Though often overlooked in favor of more popular Southeast Asian destinations, Pakse has something to offer for everyone who visits. With a rich mix of historical, natural, and modern-day attractions, and beautiful scenery, the city is ready to leave visitors with unforgettable travel experiences.

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: Uskovnica, Slovenia, LaFayette, Georgia, United States of America, Southeast, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Mount Merapi, Indonesia, Povardarie, Macedonia, Jorhat, India, Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades, Piauí, Brazil, Pacifica, Colombia, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, Sovetskaya Gavan, Russia, and Müden, Germany.