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1. Passport & Visa
It goes without saying that you need an international passport. Make sure it’s valid longer than six months though or the Thais won’t let you in (true story). The United States have an agreement with Thailand so you can stay in Bangkok thirty days for free. Staying longer? Get a Visa On Arrival at the airport (30 days, with a 30 day extension) or a Tourist Visa (60 days, with a 30 day extension) Check your local embassy’s website for more information.
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2. Cash & Credit Card
Bringing cash or a credit/debit card? The answer is short and simple: both. Most restaurants, hotels and tour operators accept cards. Try to get one with no transfer or withdrawal fees though, just to save you some money.
If you want to experience the real Bangkok however, you need cash (baht) to pay at the local markets and shops. You can withdraw money from one of the many ATMs or change your dollars, euros, … in one of the currency exchange agencies. There are several trustworthy agencies who give you the best exchange rates and value for your money! -
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3. Driver To Pick
You Up from the AirportWe promise, you’ve never seen so many intrusive taxi drivers as at Suvarnabhumi Airport. If you don’t want to get totally stressed out even before you enter Bangkok, make sure you arrange yourself a pick-up in advance. It’s cheaper and having someone waiting for you with your name on a plate is kind of cool too, right?
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4. Sun Protection
The Bangkok sun is not like your usual sun, if you don’t protect yourself you’ll burn. Also, make sure to stay out of the sun between 11AM to 3PM. That tan is far less important than the condition of your skin. Still got burned? Find yourself some aloe vera too cool things down.
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5. Diarrhea & Motion Sickness Pills
Never drink tap water, only eat fresh cooked food and wash your hands regularly. Believe us, you don’t want to get sick. If you do though, you’ll be thanking yourself you brought some diarrhea pills. If you’re planning on riding a boat through the floating market you may want to consider bringing some motion sickness pills as well.
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6. Insect Repellent
Mosquito bites can be nasty, you know that already. But in Bangkok these annoying blood suckers can also carry Malaria and Dengue Fever. Unless you want to get severe headaches, muscle pain, high fever and nausea, put some insect repellent in your suitcase. Extra plus, it will keep other bugs away too!
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7. Flip Flops & Swimwear
This should be a no brainer. No way you’re coming to Bangkok and not taking a swim in an infinity pool, it should even be obligated! As in most of SouthEast Asia, flip-flops are your go to footwear. Light, cool and easy to remove as in some bars, temples and restaurants they will ask you to take your shoes off.
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8. Hat & Sun Glasses
We talked about protecting your skin from the sun already, but the beams can be so strong over here, there’s definitely no harm in wearing a hat/cap and sunglasses too. Unless getting a sunstroke or damaging your eyes for eternity is on your bucket list of course.
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9. Hiking & Water Shoes
Bangkok is home to the gorgeous erawan waterfalls, so better put some water sandals in your luggage if you don’t want to be face down in the water in your holiday pics. Rocks can be slippery! And bring some hiking shoes too. Hiking Kaeng Krachan or Namtok Sam Lan won’t be a joy on your flip-flops.
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10. Kindle Or Book
No better way to relax on your vacation than by getting lost in an exciting story. Don’t forget to bring some books or a Kindle, if you want to travel lightly. They are perfect for the long flight to Thailand or to just enjoy as you relax in a local cafe drinking some Thai Tea or coffee.
What You Need
For Your Trip To Bangkok
Bangkok Checklist
No better way to start your holiday to Bangkok knowing that you’ve got everything figured out. Flight booked, hotel booked, enthusiasm on point. But what to bring? This is our Bangkok Checklist, a list of ten travel essentials you’re definitely going to need!
