The basics, whatever the season
- Light cotton or quick-drying clothes, two swimsuits, sandals and light closed shoes.
- An outfit covering shoulders and knees for temples (Wat Chalong, the Big Buddha).
- Sunscreen without oxybenzone or octinoxate: Thailand bans some filters inside its marine national parks, which matters for day trips to Phi Phi, Similan or Racha.
- Mosquito repellent, a small dry bag for boat trips and a refillable bottle.
- A universal plug adapter: the mains supply is 220 V, 50 Hz, with flat two-pin and round sockets.
- Your own medication with the prescription; for any health question, see your doctor before you leave.
Dry season (November to April) and monsoon (May to October)
From November to April the sky is steadiest and the sea calm; a light scarf is enough for the very cold air conditioning in malls. From May to October showers are frequent and the west-coast sea can be rough: bring a thin rain jacket, quick-drying clothes and a waterproof phone pouch. More detail is in the rainy season in Phuket.
Money, phone and papers
Carry some baht in cash for markets and taxis, a card with no foreign fees and a copy of your passport. For data, an eSIM installed before the flight avoids the airport counter: see the eSIM for Thailand.
FAQ
Do I need a sweater in Phuket? A light long-sleeved top is enough, mostly for flights, air-conditioned buses and restaurants.
Which shoes should I bring? Sandals for the beach, light sneakers for sightseeing, and shoes with grip for boat excursions.
