okay so you've booked thailand!! you've watched every phi phi boat day tiktok, saved the floating bungalow pics and now you're staring at your suitcase wondering how much is too much?! don't stress at all, we've got you!!
the ultimate thailand packing list for solo gals (honest 2026 guide) <3
okay so you've booked thailand!! you've watched every phi phi boat day tiktok, saved the floating bungalow pics and now you're staring at your suitcase wondering how much is too much?! don't stress at all, we've got you!! thailand is one of our most loved trips and so many of our gals use it as the start of a big south east asia adventure.
whether you're joining our thailand paradise trip or heading off solo, here's our honest, tested, guide on exactly what to bring (and what to leave at home!!)
the golden rules of packing for thailand
- it's hot, humid and you WILL get wet: between kayaking at klong root, swimming in khao sok and speedboat days around phi phi, think quick-dry everything. linen, cotton and swimwear are your besties!!
- pack light, you'll be on the move: minivans, long-tail boats, ferries and speedboats all have limited space. a soft bag you can carry yourself is a total game changer!
- laundry is cheap everywhere: almost every hotel and street in ao nang, phi phi and phuket has a laundry spot charging by the kilo. pack for 7 days max!!
clothing: the vibe is beach gal & island life
- 4β5x bikinis / swimsuits: you'll be in the water nearly every day! bring one secure one-piece or sporty bikini for snorkelling, kayaking and jumping off long-tail boats.
- 1x activewear set (sports bra + shorts or leggings): essential for rock climbing in railay and the phi phi viewpoint hike. trust us on this one!!
- 3x lightweight shorts: linen, cotton or baggy jorts, whatever is comfiest in the humidity!
- 4β5x vest tops & tees: easy to throw over a bikini in the day and dress up with jewellery for ao nang beach bars at night.
- 2β3x summer dresses: perfect for the welcome dinner, the beach dinner at promthep cape and sunset cocktails!!
- 1x temple-friendly outfit: thailand's temples need shoulders and knees covered, so pack linen trousers + a tee or a midi dress, or just wrap a sarong round you!
- 2x sarongs: beach towel, cover-up, temple wrap and van blanket all in one. you can pick them up for a few pounds at local markets!!
- 1x lightweight jumper or zip-up hoodie: for freezing air-con on minivans and flights.
- 7x underwear & 2β3x bras: breathable cotton is your friend!
footwear: what do you ACTUALLY wear?
- 1x flip-flops (we love havaianas): you'll live in these. boats, beaches, hotel pools, the lot!!
- 1x comfy sandals / birkenstocks: for exploring towns, markets and dinners.
- 1x lightweight trainers: for the phi phi viewpoint hike and the elephant sanctuary.
- 1x water shoes (optional but so handy): great for rocky beaches and getting on and off long-tail boats.
- DO NOT BRING: heels!! there's sand everywhere, beach bars are barefoot vibes and you'll be carrying them home by the end of the night. (that being said, if you do have extra time in bangkok, there is some gorgeousssss rooftop bars overlooking the city if you do plan to dress up)
toiletries, health & tummy prep
- reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): the thai sun is strong and you'll be snorkelling near coral, so stock up at home where it's cheaper!
- mosquito repellent: a must for khao sok national park and sunset kayaking.
- after-sun / aloe vera: we've all been there after a boat day, gals!!
- electrolyte sachets: the heat makes you sweat way more than normal, so pop one in your water every morning. fresh coconuts on the beach help too!
- imodium & rehydration salts: just in case your tummy needs a minute to adjust to all that delicious pad thai. stick to bottled water!
- motion sickness tablets: speedboats and ferries can be choppy, so take one before boarding if you get queasy.
- period products: tampons can be harder to find outside big towns, so bring your favourites from home
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electronics & travel essentials
- universal travel adapter: thailand mostly uses type A and C sockets (two flat or two round pins), so UK plugs won't fit!
- high-capacity power bank: charging points can be limited when you're staying out in khao sok, plus you'll be filming everything!!
- waterproof phone pouch: a lifesaver on boat days and while kayaking.
- 10β20L dry bag: keeps your phone, cash and room key safe on the speedboat around maya bay, monkey island and pileh lagoon.
- crossbody bag with a zip: for busy night markets and phi phi nights out.
- reusable water bottle: lots of hotels have refill stations and it cuts down on plastic!
thailand packing FAQs
what bag should i bring to thailand? we recommend a 40β60L soft backpack or a soft-shell suitcase. you'll be hopping on minivans, long-tail boats and ferries, so something you can carry and squish into tight spaces is the dream!!
what do i need to wear to temples in thailand? shoulders and knees need to be covered. a sarong or light scarf in your day bag means you're always ready, and you'll often need to take your shoes off too, so slip-on sandals are perfect!
what should i wear on a night out in phi phi? phi phi nightlife is super relaxed and mostly on the beach! think a bikini top with shorts, a cute vest or a summer dress with flip-flops. leave anything precious at the hotel!!
do i need anything before i fly to thailand? yes! you'll need to fill in thailand's digital arrival card online within 3 days before you land. always check the latest entry rules for your passport before you go!
ready for paradise?! check out our upcoming thailand group trips or read our solo female travel safety hub <3
