Hooray! You are about to fly to Bangkok, the most visited city in the world and the capital of Thailand. Now, it is time to pack your luggage. But, some of you might have never travelled as far as Bangkok before, so what is there to be expeHooray! You are about to fly to Bangkok, the most visited city in the world and the capital of Thailand. Now, it is time to pack your luggage. But, some of you might have never travelled as far as Bangkok before, so what is there to be expected or prepared for? Well, this guide will help you properly prepare your packing to handle everything Bangkok has to offer!

Sun protection

This is a must-have. Bangkok and other Asian cities are notoriously hot, especially between April and May, with record high temperatures of above 40 degrees Celsius or 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Applying sunscreen can help protect your skin from the Bangkok heat and UV rays, preventing the chance of developing rash or skin cancer. Sunglasses are equally important; why should you risk your health and safety by squinting? A good pair of sunglasses might cost a fortune, but it’s an investment for the future.

If you forgot to bring one, Bangkok is full of shopping centers and malls. You can choose to splash your cash in the internationally established ones like Central, Siam Paragon, The Mall, or you might go fully local and stroll down the many walking markets and night bazaars for a cheap pair.

Secret item: You should get a handheld fan. It can help cool you off quite effectively during the hot summer months. Just don’t forget to charge it!

Rain gear

Bangkok is the city of two contrasting climates: the summer months are scorching hot, and the rainyrainly season is damp and wet. Despite its status as the world’s most popular destination, Bangkok is often flooded even after a relatively light thunderstorm. Do not be surprise if you leave your hotel and wonder if you have mistakenly booked a flight for Venice.

The best preparation for Bangkok’s rainy season is to not visit during that period. You are bound to miss so many sights and activities because the rain here can get apocalyptic. But, if it is unavoidable or if you want to experience Bangkok in the rain, you should definitely acquire a raincoat, a pair of boots, an umbrella, and some spare clothing.

Secret item: Due to the local climate, many shops will sell cute waterproof plastic phone holder. You can take your phone anywhere without any fear of water damage.

Other useful items

While these items are not as necessary as the ones above, it is something you should or can buy if situations arise.

Insect repellent

Being a monsoon country, Thailand is full of mosquitoes and dangerous insects that can harm you slightly or seriously. Having some insect repellent with you at all times is a great way to protect yourself from dengue fever, insect bites, or even malaria. But, if you cannot find it in your country, do not worry! Insect repellant is abundant here and widely available in convenience stores.

Appropriate clothing

A crop top, a pair of shorts, and flip-flaps will take you far in Bangkok, and you will be admitted into most places. However, when it comes to Thailand’s most revered and sacred place like The Grand Palace or Wat Pho, you are expected to cover up; no shorts, no crop tops or anything revealing. Remember, Thai people might seem kind, but they will take offense at your lack of respect, especially to their national heritages and religious institutes.

Cash is king

Sure, a credit card will be accepted as a form of payment in many establishments, but it is always better to use cash whether in banknotes or a travel card. Do not wait until you arrive before exchanging currencies; currency exchange in airports are notorious for their lower-than-standard rates. You should either exchange super early before you take off from your home country or super late after you leave the airport.

Recommendations for staying in Bangkok

Apart from the items you should get before visiting Bangkok, learning a few tips can help you live like a local and make the most of your time here! Here are some the most useful tips for travellers who want to experience Bangkok.

• Avoid regular taxis. Use Grab or LineMan.

• Use public transport, especially the BTS and MRT.

• Stay hydrated.

• Look after your belongings, bags and purses.

• Have toilet paper with you. Thai public toilets are not clean nor well-sanitized.

• Do not underestimate how crowdy a place can be.

• Avoid travelling by car, especially in the evening.

• Take advantage of the fast WiFi to access the internet and bet on various sporting events at FUN88 Asia!

The most important tip is this: do not try to speak Thai. While people from other countries might appreciate a traveller who tries to communicate in their native tongue, Thai people do not. Not because foreigners are not well-received or stupid, but because the Thai language is one of the hardest languages for a foreigner to learn! Just stick to English and you will navigate just fine.