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Thailand's the type of place that’s filled with as much adventure and exploring as there is partying and relaxing. So, it can be confusing to know what to take. One minute you could be trekking through a jungle, and the next you might be kicking back on the beach. Well there’s no need to throw everything in your suitcase just in case, as we’ve put together the essential Thailand packing guide. Here’s what you need to take on your trip.
Okay, we’re not talking a chunky-knit scarf here, but something lightweight like a pashmina or shawl. When heading to the temples you’ll need to cover up your shoulders and knees. As it’s really hot in Thailand, you might want to avoid wearing a long-sleeved top or long trousers, so a scarf can be a saviour. Throw it over your shoulders or use it as a makeshift long skirt to cover your knees. As it’s light and doesn’t take up much room; it’s easy to pop it back in your bag when you’re not using it.
It might be an obvious one, but with highs of up to 34 degrees, sun cream is not a luxury - it’s an essential. It protects you from harmful UV rays, which can damage your skin’s collagen, leaving it looking all wrinkled and leathered, as well as giving you sunburn. Both can have lasting effects on your health, so it’s always a good idea to cover up. You should be using a sun cream with an SPF of 30 or above in Thailand, and preferably something that’s waterproof so it doesn’t come off in the pool or when you’re getting all sweaty.
It’s not just sun care you need to be careful of in the heat, it’s also very easy to become dehydrated – even if you’re spending your day on the beach sipping cocktails non-stop. These little tablets fit easily in to your hand luggage, and are just the ticket to rehydrating yourself. They contain a scientifically balanced formula of glucose, electrolytes and essential minerals which replenish the body’s water and electrolytes. They’re also really great for hangovers, perfect for anyone who’s had a little too much fun at a full moon party. And speaking of hydration, it’s a good idea to take a water bottle with you too. Fill up before you head out for your day of excursions.
Whether it’s chilling by the beach or getting ready for a big night out, your holiday playlist deserves to be played on the right equipment. The one in this video is the Minirig speaker - it’s portable, Bluetooth enabled and has up to 50 hours of playtime. Plus it can even be used to charge your phone.
Thailand will bring out your inner explorer. You’ll be climbing through temples and trekking through jungles, so you’re going to want something a little bigger, comfier and sturdier to keep your things in – so keep that Michael Kors handbag at home.
Sun cream is brilliant for protecting your skin, but when slathering it all over your face it can sometimes leave you feeling a bit greasy, and trigger spot breakouts. Well that’s where this magical beauty product comes in. The bareMinerals natural sunscreen is in a powder form and can be used from head to toe without clogging up your pores. It has SPF 30 too, so ensures your face is safe from the sun, as well as keeping your skin matte instead of shiny. It’s really easy to apply, and can be used as an alternative to your usual face powder. Your beach selfies have never looked so good.
Holidays were made for relaxing on the beach with a good read, but it’s no secret that books are heavy – especially if you’re lugging a few hardbacks around. With an e-reader, you can take hundreds of books away with you, with no extra weight. You can get some best-selling books from Amazon, such as The Racketeer by John Grisham and The Sister by Louise Jensen, from just 99p. Bargain.
Our eyes are super sensitive, and protecting them from sun damage is just as important as protecting our skin. When choosing sunglasses it’s best to pick ones with 100% UVA and UVB protection so you can make sure your eyes are fully sheltered from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. And it’s also a great way to look stylish. We recommend these glasses from Le Specs, featured in our video. They’re lightweight frames with a matte finish, have 100% UV protection and have been spotted on the likes of Beyoncé and Christina Aguilera.
If you’re going all the way to Thailand, you’re going to want to take some amazing photos. Make sure you’ve always got enough juice on your phone by taking a UK-Thailand plug adaptor, the one with two pins. Something like this will do.
Sometimes, when relaxing by the pool, your phone decides to go for an accidental swim. With a waterproof case, you don’t need to worry about it getting wet and shoving it in a bowl of rice to recover it (we’re not convinced that it even works…), as your phone will always be protected. It also transforms your phone into a waterproof camera, so if you go snorkelling or scuba diving you can take some cool photos under the sea.
Find out more about our holidays to Thailand and all of the excursions you can book.
Photographer: Greg Woodward, Stylist: Zoe Kozlik, Assistants: Abi Payne-Humphries and Sarah Robinson
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Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong - MGallery is the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway. There’s a rooftop restaurant, infinity pools all within a tropical and tranquil setting.
You’ll be spoilt for choice of what to do at the Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach. There’s movie nights, cookery classes, Patong nightlife close by as well as being right on Tri Trang beach.
The is all about contemporary style, having been recently refurbished. You’re a two-minute walk from the beach here, in addition to being close to Phuket and Patong.
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