Pattaya Travel Necessities – What to Bring to Thailand
Bring with you only the necessities. Small portable suitcase, one shoulder
bag that can carry a small load, duffel bag and a backpack. Pack lightweight
clothing and long sleeves if you are in the constant sun. Natural fibers can be
cool and comfortable, but will be your worst nightmare if it is wet and damp.
Some of the lightweight synthetics breathe better than natural fibers, draw
sweat away rather than holding it in, and may be more suitable for the beach or
mid-rainy season. For westerners, Yoga gear and jogging gear allow breathable,
waterproof gear which I find suitable for most needs.
Sunglasses can be purchased for cheap in Thailand. Do not bring the real
ones because of the lack of quality and timeframe for wearing them in Pattaya.
Slip-on shoes or sandles are highly recommended – besides being cooler than
lace-up shoes, they are easily removed before entering a Thai home or temple. A
flashlight is a good idea; smaller and hidden the better). A few other handy
things include a compass, a plastic lighter for lighting candles and mosquito
coils (lighters, candles and ‘mossie’ coils are available in Thailand) and foam
ear plugs for noisy nights.
Toothpaste, soap and most other toiletries can be purchased anywhere in Thailand. Sun block and mosquito repellent tend to be sub-par so bring the western revision of the products. If you plan to wash your own clothes, bring along a universal sink plug, a few plastic clothes pegs and three metres of plastic coed or plastic hangers for hanging wet clothes out to dry.
If you plan to spend a great deal of time in one or more of Thailand’s beach areas, you might want to bring your own snorkel and mask. This would save you having to rent such gear and would also assure a proper fit. Shoes designed for water sports, eg Aquasocks, are great for wearing in the water wheater you’re diving or not. They protect your feet from coral cuts, which easily become infected.
Toothpaste, soap and most other toiletries can be purchased anywhere in Thailand. Sun block and mosquito repellent tend to be sub-par so bring the western revision of the products. If you plan to wash your own clothes, bring along a universal sink plug, a few plastic clothes pegs and three metres of plastic coed or plastic hangers for hanging wet clothes out to dry.
If you plan to spend a great deal of time in one or more of Thailand’s beach areas, you might want to bring your own snorkel and mask. This would save you having to rent such gear and would also assure a proper fit. Shoes designed for water sports, eg Aquasocks, are great for wearing in the water wheater you’re diving or not. They protect your feet from coral cuts, which easily become infected.