What to pack for a trip to Chiang Mai: the complete 2026 packing guide

Far away from the bustling streets of Bangkok and the picture-perfect beaches of Phuket, set among the lush jungle of Northern Thailand, is Chiang Mai. A welcoming city where the locals are friendly, the food is delicious and the streets are alive with colours, sights and sounds. What Ubud is to Bali, Chiang Mai is to Thailand. A haven for artists and creatives, designers and wanderers, it’s a playground of history, culture and fun, a melting pot of culture and history. If you’re planning an adventure and aren’t quite sure what you need to take with you, here are all my tips on what to pack for a trip to Chiang Mai.

Planning your trip?
•••
Hotels: I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic SALE!
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
eSIM: eSIMPAL Use LGB15

I register as an affiliate for anything I use and recommend. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you click them and make a purchase, I may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you, and in some cases, these links may even unlock savings or give you bonuses I’ve negotiated. You can find out more about this here and here.

---

You might also like to read:

• 22 Things to know before you go
• 35 Best things to do
• Avoid these 12 common scams

What to pack

When it comes to packing your Chiang Mai-bound suitcase, my number one tip is don’t overpack. Less is genuinely more.

Tops

It’s most likely going to be hot in Chiang Mai so make sure you pack tops made from lightweight or breathable fabric. I prefer sweat-wicking t-shirts as they keep me dry and cool, especially when I’m out doing activities. You might also like to pack things that are loose fitting and breathable, the type of clothes that allow you to catch a cool breeze and don’t weigh you down. If you’re visiting in the cooler months, a jumper, jacket and scarf may be needed. It can get quite cool in Northern Thailand during the cool season.

Bottoms

Again, you want to opt for a material that is either quick-dry or extremely lightweight and breathable. This is not the time to pack jeans or other thick material unless you’re visiting during the cool season, in which case you may like to pop a few pairs of warmer pants in your luggage. I spend most of my time in board shorts or lightweight chinos depending on what’s on the agenda. Stay away from material that traps heat and doesn’t allow you to breathe.

Outdoor gear

Keep in mind, if you plan on doing outdoor activities like hiking or zip lining, you’re going to need appropriate clothes. You’ll want to pack activewear or gym-style clothes that dry quickly are lightweight and breathe well. You may also like to consider packing a quick-dry towel and a refillable water bottle.

Scarf

A lightweight cotton scarf is worth throwing in your bag, just in case it gets cool in the evening depending on the time of year you visit. A scarf also comes in handy inside restaurants with aggressive air conditioning, or when you need a quick cover-up when entering a temple.

Nice clothes

Thailand is pretty laid back, so you won’t need to pack anything over the top. There are quite a few nice restaurants and bars, so if you want to dress up a little, you absolutely can. A decent pair of shorts with a nice shirt or breathable button-up is more than fancy enough for anywhere you’re likely to go in Chiang Mai.

Swimwear

Board shorts are a good call here as the material is quick-dry. Pack two pairs if you can so one can dry while you wear the other. You might also like to pack a light cover-up or a pair of shorts you don’t mind getting wet, something easy to throw on to and from the pool.

Pyjamas

One other tip with clothing: pretty much every hotel room has air-conditioning that will keep you really cool when you sleep at night. I tend to get really cold, so if you’re like me, it could be worth your time to pack a warmer set of jammies. Otherwise, a pair of cotton pyjama shorts and top will be perfect. If you’re visiting in the hot season and staying at super-budget accommodation without air conditioning, you won’t be needing warm jammies.

Shoes

Most people get around in their flip-flops or flat sandals. If you plan to hike a mountain or trek into the jungle, you will need appropriate closed-in shoes. If you plan to sprawl out by the hotel pool for ten days straight, one pair of flip-flops or sandals will do. The club/bar scene is very laid back so you won’t need high heels. I usually pack two pairs of sandals and one pair of closed-in shoes.

Temple outfits

If you’re planning to visit temples in Chiang Mai, you will need a temple outfit. In most places, this just means clothes that cover your knees, cleavage, midriff and shoulders. You could go with a long skirt and T-shirt or a long dress with a scarf to cover the shoulders. If you arrive and find your outfit isn’t acceptable or forget to pack a temple outfit, you can hire wraps at the entry to the larger temples like Wat Chedi Luang. But, you will have to pay for them, and it seems like a waste of money. I would recommend packing two temple outfits, so you have a backup if one is dirty/being laundered.

Tissues

Always keep a pocket pack of tissues with you, just in case you forget to grab some toilet paper off the communal roll before you go into a toilet stall at a public place. You should make sure you always have some change on you as some places will charge you to use the toilet. I also recommend carrying hand sanitiser at all times and be prepared to use a squat toilet.

Good quality luggage

Bags get thrown around a lot and it’s worth investing in luggage that can take a hit and lock securely. I always lock valuables in the hotel safe when I go out, and anything that doesn’t fit in the safe either gets locked in the suitcase or comes with me. Check all windows and doors are locked before you head out for the day.

Charging station

You’ll need a power outlet converter to recharge your camera, phone and other electronics. In Thailand, outlets are generally two round or two flat prongs, though most modern hotels have universal sockets. I always pack a compact power board with multiple USB ports so I can charge my phone, camera batteries and other gear from a single adapter. An eSIM is also worth considering for Chiang Mai rather than hunting down a local SIM card on arrival — Simify is what I use and it connects immediately.

Beach bag and backpack

Pack a light tote you can put your beach essentials in; this will make it easier to pack up your towel, hat, sunglasses, book, camera and sunscreen when you head down to the water or go for a walk around town. If you plan on spending a few days out exploring or hiking, you might like to bring a backpack instead. It can be a better way to carry heavy gear like cameras. Make sure you have a plan to keep your valuables dry if it rains suddenly, which it can in Chiang Mai. A waterproof bag, umbrella or even just a spare plastic bag can be a lifesaver.

Bug spray

Be sure to pack a good amount of bug spray! You’ll want to cover yourself in bug spray if you’re staying anywhere where it seems like there are a lot of mosquitoes hanging around. When I’m in Thailand, I tend to apply bug spray every morning. I’ll also apply a liberal amount of bug spray if we’re going out for dinner. Be sure to buy a good quality brand.

Hair products

With humidity comes frizz and sweat, so pack whatever you normally rely on to keep your hair in check. A small amount of styling product is useful if you like to keep things neat. If you’re swimming a lot, a leave-in treatment can help offset the damage from chlorine and sun.

Moisturiser

I was genuinely surprised by how dry it was in Northern Thailand. A few people I travelled with commented on how dry their hands, arms and legs felt after a few days. I’d definitely recommend slipping some good quality moisturiser in your bag, at least for your face and hands.

Sun protection gear

Be sure to pack sunscreen from home as it’s quite expensive overseas if you forget it. When you go out for the day be sure to slather it on to protect against the harsh sun. I don’t leave the hotel without putting SPF on my face and a solid sunscreen on my body. Remember, sunscreen is only as good as its user and it’s up to you to reapply during the day to ensure you don’t get burned. A rash shirt or sun-shirt is a good idea too for long days out in the heat. Don’t be deceived by cloud cover either — you can still burn.

Something for bug bites

Despite the amounts of bug spray I go through, I’m usually still bitten at some point. Pack something to put on your bites to stop the itching. Personally, I keep a tube of Lucas’ Paw Paw Ointment on me when I travel as it works well as a general fix-all.

Loofah gloves

This one may seem a little extra but hear me out! With all that sunscreen and bug spray you’re covering yourself with, you’re going to find it mixes with the sweat from the humidity and the dust and dirt in the air, caking your body with a film of scunge. Trust me, scrubbing your body with a pair of loofah gloves is going to feel amazing! They’ll scrub all the sunscreen out of your pores and leave you feeling fresh and clean.

Medicine

I pack a little medicine bag which includes Imodium/something for an upset tummy, paracetamol and ibuprofen for headaches or injuries, loads of band-aids, hayfever/allergy medication, asthma inhaler, a very strong antihistamine, sleeping pills, valium in-case of a bad anxiety/panic attack, eye drops, cold and flu medicine, throat lozenges, travel sickness medicine, hand sanitiser and ginger tablets.

Feminine hygiene products

Women may like to pack their own tampons, pads, etc as the brand or type you prefer may not be available in Chiang Mai. You will absolutely need to pack hand sanitiser and might like to bring a small pack of anti-bacterial wipes and/or a pack of baby wipes, just in case! You may like to tuck a few plastic bags into your day bag, just in case there’s nowhere for you to dispose of your products and be sure to always have tissues on you as there may not be toilet paper where you go. Bear in mind, the toilets in Thailand do not flush very well and you’re usually discouraged from putting toilet paper in the toilets and placing it in a bin instead.

Extra bags

You might like to bring a few separate bags to put your dirty shoes, clothes and underwear in to keep your bag from stinking out and making your fresh clothes smell bad. Laundry is cheap to have done on the streets of Chiang Mai so don’t pay ridiculous hotel prices, just take your laundry out onto the street and you’ll find someone offering a laundry service at a good rate. If you have any delicate clothing, you may like to hand wash it at the hotel.

Packing hacks and tips

A few tips and tricks to help you hack your packing!

Eco-friendly bags

Stash some eco-friendly bags and reusable sandwich bags in your luggage, they come in so very handy for storing dirty shoes and clothes as well as bars of soap, wet swimwear or leaky toothpaste tubes! 

Stop leaky bottles

If you’re worried about your shampoo, conditioner or body wash leaking in your bag simply unscrew the lid, place some cling wrap over the top and screw the lid back on. It’ll stop everything from leaking and potentially ruining your clean clothes.

Tupperware

I use Tupperware or similar hard plastic containers to put all my toiletries in. This ensures no leaks will destroy my clean clothes and makes it really easy for me to grab my toiletries in one easy swoop, keep them together in the hotel and makes re-packing easier too. I also use a small container for all my jewellery and another one for electronics like adaptors, cords and chargers. It keeps me organised and stops me from losing things!

Dryer sheets

Put dryer sheets in your suitcase to keep your clothes smelling good throughout the whole trip. If you don’t have dryer sheets, a few drops of essential oil on a tissue, laid flat in-between layers of clothes, works wonders. I also have a little bottle of spray that instantly freshens up clothes and it’s amazing! No musty-smelling clothes for you, my friend. 

Frequently asked questions about packing for Chiang Mai

What should I wear in Chiang Mai?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is your best option for most of the year. Sweat-wicking t-shirts, board shorts and comfortable sandals will cover most situations. If you’re visiting during the cool season (November to February), pack a light layer for cooler evenings and mornings.

Do I need a temple outfit for Chiang Mai?
Yes. Most temples in Chiang Mai require you to cover your knees, shoulders, midriff and cleavage. A pair of longer pants or shorts worn below the knee paired with a t-shirt works fine for men. If you arrive underprepared, wraps can be hired at the entrance to larger temples like Wat Chedi Luang, but it’s worth packing something suitable to avoid the hassle and cost.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Chiang Mai?
No. Tap water in Chiang Mai is not safe to drink. Use bottled water or a filtered water bottle and be mindful when ordering drinks with ice at smaller local restaurants.

Do I need travel insurance for Chiang Mai?
Absolutely. Medical care in Thailand can be expensive and travel insurance is essential. I use Cover-More for all my trips.

What currency do I need for Chiang Mai?
Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Carry some cash for street markets, temples and smaller restaurants as not everywhere accepts cards. Withdraw from bank ATMs where possible to avoid higher fees at independent machines.

Should I get an eSIM for Thailand?
It’s a convenient option and I’d recommend it. An eSIM lets you connect the moment you land without the hassle of tracking down a physical SIM card. I use Simify, which works reliably throughout Thailand including in and around Chiang Mai.

What’s the best time of year to visit Chiang Mai?
November to February is considered the cool season and is the most comfortable time to visit. March to May is the hot and dry season, which coincides with the burning season when air quality can be affected by agricultural fires in the region. June to October is the rainy season, though rain typically comes in short afternoon bursts rather than all day.

---

---