What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (2024)

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How to win rainy season in Thailand? Let’s start with my favourite travel sentence ever: “There’s no such thing as bad weather. Just people wearing the wrong clothes”. Brilliant. So that’s my take on what to wear for rainy season in Thailand:pack the right things and even “big, old, fat rain” won’tslow you down.

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What to wear for rainy season in Thailand?

Tip: Note that rainy season occurs at different times of the year in different parts of Thailand. On Koh Samui it’s roughly October, November and December (and occasionally lasting into early January).

First, to make sure you’re PhD-levels of prepared, learn the Thailand dress code. Then, find out how to win your rainy season war against mosquito bites. You know who’s excited for your rainy season visit? Thailand’s mosquitoes. Find out how to stay safe (or at least improve your odds that they bite someone else). Total victory, totally naturally:

Underneath it all

What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (1)

Step one: Start with Mosquito Warfare and never skip this step. Thailand’s mosquitoes are greedy on the driest of days, but get especially voracious in rainy season … when they know we’re outnumbered and behind enemy lines. Ideally, start with a liberal application of quality mosquito repellent as soon as you’re dry from the shower. (It goes on top of sunscreen with – ideally – twenty minutes’ “sink in time” in between).

My favourite mosquito repellent (and the only one I use) is incognito but, as explained here, it’s currently hard to find outside of the UK and parts of Europe (blame Covid). Americans and Canadians might prefer Murphy’s as a natural alternative, though I haven’t tried it myself (and I never use DEET). Rest of world? Recruit a Brit to mail you some incognito.

Step two: Add a mosquito repellent bracelet. These are really clever as they’re waterproof and will work for about two weeks straight. So you can put a wristband on and forget about it.

Your rain jacket

What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (2)

First order of business: your rain jacket. Leave your sissy “water-repellancy” at home. Thailand’s rainy season will not be repelled. You need waterPROOF.Ideally, you want a lightweight but sturdy, and properly waterproof rain jacket (with a big hood). These Columbia rain jackets get my vote for their:

  • totally waterproof taped seams
  • adjustable hoods
  • lightweight/breathable fabric for Thailand’s steamy weather

Better still, they pack down to nothing and have tons of reviews to back up the waterproof promise.

Can you get rain jackets in Thailand?

In Bangkok, shopping successes are easy. Elsewhere, especially in beach destinations like Koh Samui, you can find rain jackets (of dubious quality) in most supermarkets, and expensive imported brand-names (like Superdry) in department stores. In most cases, both varieties will be for Thai-sized people (roughly a Western size small or medium).

Tip: If you’re bigger than ‘Thai-size’ (more or less a Gap Kids size large), bring your own rain jacket from home.

Are rain ponchos suitable?

Disposable plastic ponchos are the easiest rain-gear to find. They’re available all over Thailand, but they don’t last long and don’t feel nice to wear – you start to feel like a goldfish swimming in a plastic bag. If you prefer to pack your own quality control, bring along an ultra-lite poncho – it will last for years. Extra credit? A really good travel umbrella that will survive strong wind.

Your rainy season shoes

What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (3)

My no-contest, #1 vote for a rainy season shoe? Crocs and friends. They:

  • have great traction on slippery surfaces
  • are comfortable for walking long distances
  • are absolutely ideal for wet weather

There are a few kinds of stingy insects on Koh Samui, including the occasional scorpion. During rain especially, they love to hide in dry shoes. Ideally, bring slides or sandals over closed-toed shoes to avoid needing to shake them every time you put them on. With an open-toed sandal, you can immediately see that the coast is clear. That’s not possible for all itineraries – sometimes you’ll need a proper shoe – but you’ll definitely want a pair of quality sandals.

What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (4)

Avoid flip-flops at all costs (as I explain below). Yet sturdier sandals are great options – all of the sandals above are made to get wet. Choose sandals that have great grip and will stay on your feet (rather than committing acts of slippery treachery). I wouldn’t recommend wearing these to dinner at a nice resort, but they’ll get you through days of sight-seeing, exploring and activities in comfort and safety. As for closed-toed shoes, look for anything that’s waterproof and offers good grip on wet floors.

Tip: For more shoe advice – and why to avoid shoes with laces – see the best shoes to wear in Thailand.

The worst shoes for rainy season

Although flip-flops are a perfect choice in Thailand the rest of the year, during rainy season, the entire country becomes a slippery banana peel. Flip-flops can be downright dangerous. You don’t want to mince about in a scared-to-slip-shuffle, you want to enjoy your holiday.

Can sports shoes be worn in rainy season?

Running shoes/trainers will get wet, but they’re much safer than flip-flops. A light-weight, thin fabric style of mesh sports shoe – like water shoes or synthetic boat shoes – will dry more quickly than traditional leather-uppers gym shoes. However, if you’re stuck with regular running shoes and get soaked, set to them with a hotel hair dryer and stuff them with balled-up newspaper overnight.

Tip: Leave canvas sneakers, like Converse, behind – they’ll get wet, then muddy and will never dry. Also ditch any white shoes that will stain.

Helpful rainy season extras

What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (5)

“Is it still raining?”Oh yes you have noticed. Four quick tips for any girls headed into the fray (Thailand’s peak humidity). They’re not “can’t-live-without” necessary, but will be definitely helpful for looking (and feeling) like a human being, no matter how hard it rains:

  • A waterproof phone case
  • Anti-frizz hair oil. If you don’t need this … Monica Geller and I are jealous.
  • Waterproof mascara
  • Waterproof hair ties

The best fabrics for rainy season

The rest of the year, when Thailand is sunny but not quite as humid, your best fabrics include linen and very light-weight cotton, rayon and silk. For rainy season, erase all notes to date and start over. When wet, cotton is undesirable as it takes ages to dry. Instead, pack quicker-drying fabrics. Specifically:

  • synthetics with wicking and/or quick-dry properties, like thin polyester and nylon
  • linen (my favourite fabric for the tropics, year-round)

Avoid these fabrics in rainy season:

  • denim
  • cotton (especially if it’s thick)
  • anything absorbent, including rayon, lyocell, Tencel, etc.

As a test, the next time you take a load of clothes out of the washing machine, consider which you’d rather put on right then and there. It won’t be your jeans.

Your clothes

What colour clothing for rainy season?

Can you wear white? Sure … if you’re planning to win a wet T-shirt contest. Otherwise, no matter how much you associate white linen trousers with vacation, white clothes aren’t much use to one’s modesty when wet. As such, I only recommend wearingdark coloured clothing in rainy season. Juuuust in case.

Are pants/trousers or shorts better for rainy season?

In terms of bottoms, try to strike a clever balance with the length of your clothes’ hems. Longer clothes will offer you more protection against Thailand’s mosquitoes (kept very happy in rainy season), while shorter ones won’t get wet in puddles. As such, a mixture of shorts and pants (and skirts/dresses of varying lengths) are great to pack. You’ll then have choices depending on your itinerary each day.Shorts and pants made of a quick-dry material are ideal. If you can’t quit the zip-off pants-into-shorts magic trick, they would – I admit – be very useful in rainy season.

What tops are best for rainy season?

For tops, pack shirts with different sleeve-lengths, including a long-sleeve option. While it doesn’t get cold (low 20s C / 70s F), it can be breezy in rainy season and at times it’s properly windy. Light layers will help you to easily adjust if a hot day turns into a cooler, windier one. In addition to your light-weight rain jacket, a pashmina or a light sweater or cardigan are nice to have, especially early in the morning and at night.

Tip: If you’re an “always cold” person, pack an ultralight merino long-sleeve t-shirt/base layer. Look for ‘150’ weight – anything thicker is too hot. This is my favourite top when it’s cooler and windy, and serves double-duty to keep you warm on the plane. I’d never bring a sweater to Koh Samui in any weather – a top like this is your “cold weather” option.

Can you wear skirts and dresses in rainy season?

Yes, certainly – once they’ve passed two tests:

  • First, the ‘Marilyn Test’. It can be very windy during rainy season.
  • Next, consider its silhouette when it’s drenched and sticking to you – some options will fare better than others.

Leggings in rainy season?

For women (or fairly confident men), leggings or yoga pants are a great rainy season option. They dry quickly and are comfortable for the best rainy season activities: lounging, massages, yoga and eating.

What not to wear in rainy season?

Jeans. No, no, no, no. Yuck. When was the last time you tried to peel off soaking wet jeans? You can’t.

Your rainy season packing checklist

Now that you know exactly what to wear for rainy season in Thailand, run through this quick check-list before locking your suitcase shut. As a final test, use this worst-case rainy season checklist to review your clothes and shoes:

1.Best case, what if it’s actually hot and sunny?

Not to get your hopes up, but who knows. Can your suitcase adjust for nice weather surprises? Double-check what to wear in Thailand to help your suitcase reach its fullest potential.

2. Can you wade?

Do you have shoes or sandals that can (A) wade through big puddles, (B) stay on your feet while doing so, and (C) survive to see another day?

3. Are you slip-proof?

Do you have shoes or sandals that can safely handle slippery tiled surfaces? The sandal options mentioned above all promise great wet-weather traction.

4. The ‘Marilyn’ test?

Will your clothes hold up in a wind tunnel?

5. Forrest Gump-style rain?

Can your shoes and clothes withstand getting caught in a torrential downpour without endangering you (or getting ruined)?

6. Leaving white at home?

Will your clothes accidentally feature you in a Wet T-shirt Contest? Avoid white, girls! Above all else, make sure you’re prepared against Thailand’s mosquitoes – an inevitability when the humidity rises.

What to wear in rainy season – recap:

  • A totally waterproof rain jacket and/or…
  • A quality rain poncho
  • Slip-proof sandals
  • Slip-proof shoes
  • Quick-dry fabrics, but no denim
  • Dark colours instead of white T-shirts
  • A lightweight merino long-sleeve tee
  • Pants, shorts, leggings and “Marilyn-proof” dresses

More Koh Samui questions?

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P.S. You can find every tip for Thailand packing and prep in the archive, or subscribe by email and get all the details straight to your inbox. Enjoy!

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What to Wear for Rainy Season in Thailand? Fail-Proof Rainy Season Tips (2024)

FAQs

What type of clothes do we wear in rainy season? ›

Some ideal rainy season clothing would be rain coats, rain ponchos, rain jackets or rain suits, cargo pants or water resistant shorts, waterproof boots, sandals or flip flops.

What should I wear in Thailand weather? ›

Lightweight natural fabrics work best, and pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts to help keep the mosquitoes from feasting on you. June, July, August, September and October are the monsoon season so not peak times for tourists, but if you do go then be prepared! Pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella.

Can I wear leggings in Thailand? ›

The dress code is simple really, for both men and women, knees and shoulders must be covered. Additionally, no see-through clothing or skin-tight clothing. So, ladies, this means no leggings, please!

Can you wear jeans in Thailand? ›

‍Thais can wear jeans thanks to a lifetime of heat-acclimation. You? You'll combust. Jean shorts or cut-offs aren't suitable either: they're too short culturally and too thick for the climate.

What is the best material to wear in the rain? ›

Nylon and polyester might be the first thing you are thinking of. Those two are good choices since poly-spandex and nylon-spandex offer superior moisture management. Silk can also be used but not ideal if you are in a cold and wet environment.

How do you style a rainy outfit? ›

By keeping a few rules in mind — no super-absorbent canvas sneakers, avoid light-colored clothing, remember to layer, etc. — you can put together the perfect rainy day look. From making a statement in rainboots and color-blocking to chic coats and hats, a stylish rainy day look is possible to achieve.

What is the best outfit to wear on a rainy day? ›

Look for garments made with lightweight materials, like linen, or other breathable pants, like harem pants, culottes, or jeans. Pair these with a comfortable top for a quick, rain-ready outfit! For example, you might pair a basic T-shirt with boyfriend-style jeans.

What do you wear to bed in Thailand? ›

Ideally, choose light-weight and natural clothes (for both day and night in Thailand): cotton, silk-cotton and linen tie for first place. All our clothing recommendations that follow are made of fabrics suitable for the tropics.

Do I need shoes for Thailand? ›

While you might not have athletic endeavours in mind, you'll need your shoes to help you get around Thailand without slipping or spraining your ankle. This might include hopping in and out of long-tail boats, kayaks, Jeeps and more.

Do you need a jacket in Thailand? ›

Light waterproof jacket: The weather will be hot so you don't want to have a heavy coat or hoodie with you, but you will need a light waterproof jacket if you want to avoid getting soaked if you get caught outside in the rain.

Do I need to bring toilet paper to Thailand? ›

Unless you are at a very westernized place such as a mall, you better make sure you are carrying some sort of wipe; toilet paper or baby wipes. Thai people don't use toilet tissue in the same way others might.

What can you not bring into Thailand? ›

Such prohibited items include:
  • Narcotics.
  • p*rnographic materials.
  • Counterfeit trademark items and IPR infringing items.
  • Fake notes or coins.
  • Reserved animals or CITES-listed wildlife.
Jan 10, 2022

Can you wear pink in Thailand? ›

In Thailand, it is widely believed that dressing in a certain colour each day will bring you good luck. The code is: Monday, yellow; Tuesday, pink; Wednesday, green; Thursday, orange; Friday, blue; Saturday, purple; Sunday, red. Black is reserved for funeral days.

Should I wear sneakers in the rain? ›

You can wear sneakers in the rain. The wet weather can damage certain types of materials though, so shoes made of dark leather or water-resistant materials are advisable vs suede and other delicate materials.

Should we wear socks in rainy season? ›

Your toes are going to get cold if they get wet. Your feet will sweat even though it is cold outside, so you need to wear socks that will wick the sweat away from the skin.

Which type of footwear is best? ›

The healthiest footwear for both older and younger adults should fit well and have a low, broad heel, a thin and flexible sole, and some kind of lace, strap or Velcro to ensure the shoe stays firmly attached to the foot, he says. Sandals and flats often fit this description, though many don't.

Can you wear flip flops in Thailand? ›

Can you wear flip flops in Thailand? There are no restrictions to wear flip flops in Thailand except in temples and other religious sites in Thailand. Flip flops are the best footwear for leisurely walks on the Thai beaches and beach towns. One of my most read blog articles is Dress Code For Tourists In Thailand.

Are shorts OK in Thailand? ›

Shorts or trousers

Wearing them is fine, especially when you have a stylish pair. For a night out, a pair of nice jeans is much preferred. Shorts are pretty common in most bars catering towards Westerners, and they're fine in many casual Thai nightspots too.

Do people wear sandals in Thailand? ›

Sandals Are Fine in Certain Situations

Though some women will wear pantyhose with their sandals (yikes!), most women do not and being bare legged is not considered offensive. Men should not wear sandals anywhere other than the beach.

What colors to wear on a rainy day? ›

A cheerful color.

On dreary days, choose a happy color: pull out your brightest yellow, orange, or pink to combat the gloom.

Which fabric is stronger when wet? ›

Cellulose molecules form long strands that repeat, forming the fibre that makes up cotton. Cotton is actually stronger wet than dry. This occurs because the hydrogen atoms in the water create extra bonds with those of the cellulose.

Should you wear jeans in the rain? ›

Jeans are OK for light rain although we don't recommend wearing them for heavy rainy days or when you're outside in the rain for extended periods of time. Opt for leggings instead. (Wearing wet clothes in cold temperatures can cause hypothermia.)

How should I dress for 70 and rainy? ›

Leather pants and a high-low sweater are a great choice, along with ankle length boots that add the comfort you need. Ruffle or georgette skirts are another great option. You can throw in an oversized or leather jacket and strut around as you walk down with an umbrella.

What do you wear in high humidity and rain? ›

Stick to lightweight articles of clothing that are breathable and easy to move around in. Choose lightweight t-shirts that hang on your body loosely or opt for flowy skirts instead. Stay away from dark colors, heavy materials, and any article of clothing that is difficult to move around in.

Do I need a sleeping bag for Thailand? ›

As Thailand has a tropical climate, you can use a sleeping bag liner instead of a sleeping bag when staying in hostels and it takes up a fraction of the space inside your backpack. We would also recommend packing a sleeping bag liner if you plan to travel on sleeper trains during your trip.

What should I pack for Thailand? ›

The Ultimate Thailand Packing List by Locals: 9 Things to Pack for Thailand
  • Tissue and wet wipes. ...
  • Proper clothing for temples and palaces. ...
  • Slip-on shoes. ...
  • Sun protection. ...
  • Rain gear. ...
  • Water bottle. ...
  • Insect repellent. ...
  • Power adapter for Thailand.

Can you wear leggings to temples in Thailand? ›

Women must wear long skirts or long pants to cover up their knees, but no tight leggings are allowed. Shoulders should be kept covered and no see-through clothes, sleeveless tops can be worn.

Do you have to wear a mask on flights to Thailand? ›

Face masks are not compulsory when flying THAI. Should you wish to wear a mask, please make sure it covers both the nose and mouth completely. Masks normally last up to 4 hours, so you should need to bring enough for the duration of your trip and in case you need to replace the one you are wearing.

Do you need sunglasses in Thailand? ›

Sun protection is very important, so always pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for a trip to Thailand. Because of the heat, many hotels, restaurants, shops, and other establishments blast the air conditioning to keep the temperature cool, so be sure to pack at least one warm layer just in case you get cold inside.

Do I need to Covid test before Thailand? ›

Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? No.

Should I carry cash to Thailand? ›

Travelers are advised to carry cash everywhere, both in smaller and larger denominations for quick transaction. The best way to get Thai Baht at the most prosperous rate is to bring some cash in your home currency and exchange at the forex booth on arrival, as the rates are better in Thailand.

Do you wear masks in Thailand? ›

Do I need to wear a face mask in Thailand? Wearing face masks is required in some public places.

How much bath should I take to Thailand? ›

How much Thai Baht can I carry from India? You can only carry 3000 USD or equivalent currency per person per travel from India.

Do they flush toilet paper in Thailand? ›

1) TOILETS

More importantly, know that your hostel/restaurant/airport is not joking when they ask you not to flush toilet paper. The sewage pipes in Thailand are much narrower than those in many countries, and flushing anything solid will cause blockages.

Can I bring my phone to Thailand? ›

The first step is to have your phone unlocked from the service provider before boarding, where in some cases you may be charged a small fee for the service. Once it is unlocked, your device will be enabled for a Thai SIM card, which is available in different sizes depending on the phone.

Can I take food in my suitcase to Thailand? ›

You can take solid food such as sandwiches and fruit through security and on board. All liquid food must be packed in individual containers with a maximum capacity of 100 ml (3,4 oz) each and the containers must fit into one transparent and re-sealable plastic bag that is no larger than 1 liter.

Can I take ibuprofen to Thailand? ›

You can only bring medication for a maximum of 90 days use. And it has to be in its original package. You can only travel with medicine in Category 2. If your medicine is in the other category, you can't travel with it.

How much cash can I carry to Thailand? ›

Any person who brings or takes an aggregate amount of foreign currency exceeding USD20,000 or its equivalent out of or into Thailand shall declare such amount of foreign currency to a Customs Officer.

What color is good luck in Thailand? ›

People choose to wear yellow-colored clothes on Father's Day and blue-colored clothes on Mother's Day in honor of this. In the event of an unfortunate monarch's death, the Thai people wear black. Black is the country's color of sorrow and mourning. The Thai King recently announced that pink is his lucky color.

Can I wear black in Thailand? ›

Women are required to wear plain dresses or suits, with skirts (if worn) being kept to knee length, or preferably longer. Shoulders should always be covered. An important consideration when conducting business in Thailand is not to wear black.

Do Thai people have nice skin? ›

Thai women are known for flawless skin and long silky hair. But, what is the secret behind their shiny hair and seemingly ageless skin? It is, of course, their genes that play a significant role. Also, their healthy lifestyle and traditional (and natural) beauty secrets could be some of the reasons.

Is it worth going to Thailand in rainy season? ›

It is a big misconception when it comes to Thailand's wet season. Though most travelers do not count the rainy season as a good time to travel to Thailand, you can still have an amazing time by visiting great places and picking exciting experiences that can't be ruined by the rain.

Do you need a rain jacket in Thailand? ›

Climate and Weather in Thailand

You should always bring a rain jacket or umbrella just in case of a shower, but if you visit during the rainy season then rain gear is absolutely essential.

What do you wear in tropical rainy weather? ›

Choose garments made with breathable, quick-drying fabrics.

Additionally, look for clothing made with moisture-wicking materials like bamboo, which won't soak up the rain. Stay away from materials like leather, heavy denim, and vinyl, which aren't ideal for hot, humid weather. Ditch any garments made with silk.

What is the most rainy month in Thailand? ›

The rainy or 'monsoon' season in Thailand occurs between July and October. The rains in the first few months are heavy but inconsistent (lasting just a few hours), whereas towards the end they become more persistent.

What are the best and worst months to visit Thailand? ›

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and March when the weather is cool and dry. However, it is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices reflect the surge. Thailand experiences very hot weather between April and June. The rainy season in Thailand occurs between June and October.

What is the temperature in Thailand during the rainy season? ›

From July to October is the monsoon, when most of Thailand's annual rainfall is accumulated and flooding can ravage the country. The humidity averages just under 90%, with temperatures averaging around 29 degrees Celsius in a very wet and rainy Bangkok.

Should I bring a suitcase to Thailand? ›

Primary Bag: Because you can pack relatively light, there's no need to bring a massive suitcase. The choice between roller bag and travel backpack is up to you. If you're visiting 2-3 well traveled cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and phu*ket you'll be just fine with a regular roller bag.

What kind of bag to take to Thailand? ›

A Large Backpack: If you are planning to visit Thailand for more than a week, I highly recommend you carry at least a 40L backpack to carry all the travel essentials while you are on the move. I highly recommend Osprey backpacks. They are durable, very light, and have a lifetime guarantee.

What do we wear over your clothes when it is raining? ›

Raincoat keeps our bodies warm and dry.

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