What to Wear in Thailand
Thailand's heat, temple culture, beach life, and social norms create a specific packing challenge. Here's exactly what you need.
Quick Answer
What should I wear in Thailand?
Light, loose, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for temple visits. At the beach: swimwear plus a cover-up for anywhere that isn't the beach. In cities: casual but respectful — no vest tops in temples or local markets. Key items: loose cotton shirts, lightweight trousers or maxi skirts, flip-flops, a sun hat, SPF50+ sunscreen, and one smart-casual outfit for nicer restaurants.
Dressing for Temples
Temple dress code is consistent across Thailand: covered shoulders (not just thin straps — sleeves or wide-strapped tops acceptable at some temples, but a full sleeve or scarf is more reliably accepted) and covered knees. This applies to both men and women. At major tourist temples, cloth wraps are available at the entrance — but having your own lightweight cotton scarf or overshirt means you can visit any temple without hunting for a loaner.
Shoes are removed before entering any building within a temple complex. Slip-on shoes, sandals, or flip-flops are far more practical than lace-up trainers or boots for multiple temple visits in a day. A bag or drawstring pouch for carrying shoes between buildings is useful at large temple complexes.
The Thai Fisherman's Pant Trick
Beach and City Packing List
Core packing list for 2 weeks in Thailand: 3–4 lightweight cotton or linen shirts (quick-dry or merino for longer trips); 2–3 pairs of lightweight trousers or maxi skirts; 2 swimsuits; a rashguard (long-sleeve for snorkelling); 1 pair of comfortable walking sandals; flip-flops; a sun hat; 1 smart-casual outfit for nicer dinners; thin rain jacket or poncho (useful May-October, and for cold buses year-round).
What to buy locally: sarongs (200–400 THB), cotton dresses (150–400 THB), t-shirts (100–200 THB), and lightweight trousers are all significantly cheaper in Thailand than at home. The night markets in Chiang Mai, Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, and any tourist beach market have good selections of lightweight practical clothing. Leave room in your luggage on arrival for local purchases.
Sun Protection
Thailand's sun is intense, particularly March–May and at sea. SPF50+ sunscreen is essential — apply before going outside and reapply every 90 minutes in sun exposure. Sunscreen in Thailand is widely available but significantly more expensive than at home for equivalent SPF — bring adequate supply. Note that many affordable Thai sunscreens contain skin-whitening ingredients (look for "whitening" or "white" on the label and avoid if this is not what you want). Sun protective clothing — a rashguard or long-sleeve UV-protection shirt — is the most practical protection for extended outdoor or water activities.