8 Things TO BRING (and NOT TO BRING) to THAILAND! - Packing Guide & Recommendations

Summary

In this informative video, dvtv shares essential travel tips for Thailand, highlighting eight categories of items to pack or avoid. They advise bringing certain toiletries like face wash and sunscreen due to local preferences and prices, while suggesting to skip bringing expensive clothing brands. The video also covers the importance of having a debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees, the convenience of Thai pharmacies, and the need for proper documentation. Additionally, they caution against buying electronics and recommend local SIM cards for connectivity. Finally, they emphasize the value of a good attitude and an open mind for a pleasant Thai experience.

Takeaways

• 🧴 Toiletries: Bring specific toiletries like face wash without bleaching agents and sunscreen, as they can be expensive or hard to find in Thailand.
• 🛍️ Clothing: Avoid packing heavy clothing as you can find affordable alternatives at night markets and bazaars in Thailand.
• 💵 Cash: Get a card with no foreign transaction fees for convenience and bring your home currency for better exchange rates in Thailand.
• 💊 Medicine: Thailand has accessible pharmacies and hospitals, but check for the availability of specific medications before you go.
• 🔌 Electronics: Don't expect to find bargains on electronics in Thailand; they are often more expensive than at home.
• 🔌 Adapters: No need for an adapter if coming from the USA or Europe, but a converter is needed for appliances requiring different voltage.
• 📑 Documents: Carry an international driver's license, a background check, and copies of your passport for identification purposes.
• 📱 Apps: Utilize local SIM cards for data and the Grab app for convenient transportation services in Thailand.
• 😄 Attitude: Embrace the local culture with a friendly and open-minded attitude, as Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles.
• 👜 Packing: Leave space in your suitcase for cheap clothing and other items you can purchase in Thailand to pack lighter.
• 💳 Cards: Use cards for purchases at larger stores and malls, but be prepared to pay in cash for many transactions, especially at night markets and smaller shops.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video by DVTV?

The main purpose of the video is to share insights on what to pack and what not to pack when traveling to Thailand, based on the creators' personal experiences.

Why should you consider bringing your own face wash to Thailand?

You should bring your own face wash because many products in Thailand may contain bleaching elements, which might not be suitable for everyone's skin.

What is the advice given for sunscreen when traveling to Thailand?

It is advised to bring sunscreen from your home country because it tends to be almost double the price in Thailand, especially if you plan to visit beaches or tropical locations.

Why might it be a good idea to bring tampons to Thailand?

Tampons are recommended to bring in advance because they can be difficult to find outside of tourist areas and are significantly more expensive when available.

What is the suggestion for clothing purchases in Thailand?

The suggestion is to buy clothes at night markets or bazaars, where you can find great bargains, rather than expecting lower prices on branded items like Adidas or Levi's, which tend to be more expensive in Thailand.

Why should you avoid filling your suitcase to the limit when traveling to Thailand?

Filling your suitcase to the limit is not advised because you might end up with space for the bargains you can find at night markets, which often sell clothes at much lower prices than branded stores.

What is the recommendation regarding cash and cards in Thailand?

It is recommended to have a debit or credit card with no ATM or foreign transaction fees. While cash is widely preferred in Thailand, especially at night markets and smaller stores, it's also important to have a card that can be used at larger stores and malls.

How does the availability and cost of medicine compare in Thailand to other countries?

Thailand has an extensive hospital and pharmacy network, and many drugs are available over the counter at a lower cost compared to other countries. However, it's advised to check if specific medications are available and if they require a prescription.

What is the advice on electronic devices and voltage converters in Thailand?

You do not need an adapter if you're coming from the USA or some European countries, as Thailand has outlets that accommodate both types of plugs. However, if you're bringing devices that require a specific voltage, you will need a converter, as Thailand operates at a higher voltage than the US.

Why is it not recommended to buy expensive electronics in Thailand?

Buying expensive electronics in Thailand is not recommended because they are either the same price or more expensive than in your home country. However, you can find good deals on accessories or knockoff products at night markets.

What are the document requirements for renting a scooter or car in Thailand?

For renting a scooter or car in Thailand, you need to have a driver's license and an International Driver's Permit, which is only valid when used in conjunction with your regular driver's license.

What is the importance of having a good attitude when traveling to Thailand?

A good attitude is important because Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles, and having a positive and open-minded approach will enhance your travel experience and interactions with locals.

Outlines

00:00

🧳 Essential Toiletries and Clothing Advice for Thailand

The video segment discusses the necessity of packing specific toiletries and clothing for a trip to Thailand. The speaker advises against overpacking and highlights the high cost of certain items like face wash, sunscreen, and tampons, suggesting they be brought from home. They also note that while toiletries are widely available, some personal care products may not meet travelers' preferences. Additionally, they mention that branded clothing and shoes are more expensive in Thailand, but affordable options can be found at night markets. The advice is based on the speaker's personal experience and aims to help viewers pack lighter and save money.

05:00

💳 Financial Tips and Medication Considerations

This part of the video script emphasizes the importance of having a debit or credit card without foreign transaction fees for cost-effective transactions in Thailand. The speaker also recommends exchanging currency upon arrival for better rates and advises on the availability and cost of medicines, suggesting that travelers check for the presence of specific medications before the trip. They mention that while Thailand has a robust healthcare system, some prescription drugs are cheaper and easier to obtain without a prescription compared to the US. The segment also touches on the practicality of carrying certain over-the-counter products like mosquito repellent, which is more affordable locally.

10:02

🔌 Electronic Adapters and Documents for Thailand Travel

The speaker informs viewers that adapters are generally not needed for electronic devices from the USA or some European countries due to compatible outlets in Thailand. However, a voltage converter is necessary for high-power devices like hairdryers. They also caution against expecting bargains on branded electronics, suggesting that non-branded or knockoff items can be found at local markets. The segment further emphasizes the importance of carrying essential documents such as an international driver's license and a police clearance certificate translated into English for those intending to work in Thailand. The speaker also advises travelers to have copies of their passports for identification purposes.

📱 Technology and Attitude for a Smooth Thailand Experience

In this segment, the speaker recommends obtaining a local SIM card for cost-effective data usage and highlights the utility of the Grab app for convenient and reliable transportation. They also stress the importance of having a positive attitude and an open mind when traveling in Thailand, known as the 'Land of Smiles.' The speaker encourages viewers to engage with the local culture and people in a friendly manner to enhance their travel experience. The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to subscribe, like, and comment for further engagement and support.

Keywords

💡Toiletries

Toiletries refer to personal care products such as soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste. In the context of the video, it emphasizes the importance of bringing specific toiletries to Thailand, as some items like face wash without bleaching elements or tampons can be difficult to find or expensive. The script mentions the need to bring sunscreen due to higher prices in Thailand, highlighting the practical advice for travelers.

💡Night Markets

Night markets are a popular form of street markets that operate during the evening and night. The video script suggests that these markets are a great place to find affordable clothing and accessories in Thailand, contrasting with the higher prices of branded items in malls. The mention of night markets underscores the local shopping culture and offers a tip for travelers seeking bargains.

💡Import Tax

Import tax is a levy imposed on goods brought into a country from abroad. The video explains that certain products, like Crocs, can be significantly more expensive in Thailand due to high import taxes, making it advisable for travelers to bring such items from their home countries if they require them.

💡Cash

The term 'cash' in the video refers to physical money used for transactions. The script advises travelers to Thailand to carry cash due to its preference by many local vendors and the convenience it offers in various settings, including night markets and small stores.

💡Credit Card

A credit card is a payment card issued by a financial institution that allows cardholders to borrow funds to make purchases. The video mentions the use of credit cards in Thailand, noting that while they are accepted in larger stores and malls, many local businesses prefer cash transactions.

💡Prescription Medication

Prescription medication refers to drugs that require a healthcare provider's authorization to be dispensed. The video points out that in Thailand, some medications that need prescriptions in other countries can be purchased over the counter, which is beneficial for travelers who may need such drugs during their stay.

💡Electronics

Electronics in the script refer to gadgets and devices such as phones, cameras, and speakers. The video advises against expecting bargains on branded electronics in Thailand, as they tend to be priced similarly or higher than in the traveler's home country, with the exception of certain accessories or knock-off products.

💡Adapter

An adapter is a device used to make electrical connections between two incompatible systems. The script clarifies that travelers from the USA or certain European countries do not need an adapter in Thailand due to compatible outlets, but a converter may be necessary for appliances that require different voltage levels.

💡International Driver's License

An international driver's license is a translation of a person's domestic driver's license, making it valid for use in foreign countries. The video stresses the importance of having this document in Thailand, as it is required for renting vehicles and is checked at various checkpoints.

💡Apps

Apps, short for applications, are software programs designed for mobile devices. The video highlights the use of local SIM cards and apps like Grab, which is a taxi service app similar to Uber, providing convenience for transportation in Thailand.

💡Attitude

Attitude in the video refers to one's disposition or mindset towards a situation or environment. The script concludes with the advice to bring a good attitude to Thailand, reflecting the country's reputation as the 'Land of Smiles' and the importance of being friendly and open-minded while traveling.

Highlights

DVTV shares eight categories of items to consider bringing or not bringing to Thailand.

Toiletries can be found in Thailand, but certain items like face wash without bleaching elements and sunscreen are recommended to bring due to availability and price.

Tampons are often expensive and hard to find in Thailand, so bringing them in advance is suggested.

Avoid filling suitcases to the limit for Thailand, as some brands like Adidas and Levi's are more expensive there.

Night markets offer great bargains on clothes, unlike branded items which are pricier.

Import taxes make certain items like Crocs expensive in Thailand, so bringing specific shoes or clothing is recommended.

Cheap sunglasses are widely available in Thailand, and their affordability makes them less precious to travelers.

Using a debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees is advised for saving money in Thailand.

Cash is preferred in many places in Thailand, but credit and debit cards can be used at larger stores and malls.

Exchanging money in Thailand is generally better than pre-ordering Thai Baht due to better rates.

Thailand has a well-developed hospital and pharmacy network with cheaper and easily accessible medication.

Prescription medications are often available over-the-counter in Thailand, but checking availability is recommended.

Anti-mosquito sprays are cheaper in Thailand, so there's no need to bring them from abroad.

Adapters are not necessary for US or some European travelers due to compatible outlets in Thailand.

Voltage converters are needed for high-voltage appliances in Thailand, which operates at a higher voltage than the US.

Electronics like new Samsung phones or Canon cameras are not cheaper in Thailand and may be more expensive.

GoPro accessories and similar knockoffs can be found at Thai night markets at negotiable prices.

Thailand requires specific documents like an international driver's license and a police clearance for work.

Carry a copy of your passport or the original when traveling in Thailand for identification purposes.

Local SIM cards are more cost-effective than international ones, with good data plans available in Thailand.

The Grab app is a convenient taxi service app similar to Uber, widely used in Thailand.

A good attitude and being friendly are essential when traveling to the Land of Smiles, Thailand.

Transcripts

hey everybody we are dvtv and today

we're going to talk about eight

categories of things to bring and not to

bring to Thailand check it out the idea

behind this video is we're about to head

back to Thailand we were there for eight

months and we're about to go back we

want to pack a little lighter this time

we'll go to compare prices a little bit

but we learned when we were there things

that we should bring and things that we

shouldn't bring we want to share that

with you today so the first category is

toiletries pretty much you can buy

everything in Thailand there's 7-elevens

everywhere you'll find toiletries but

there are a few toiletries that I found

I definitely would have brought in

advance for example face wash they

desire to be paler there so a lot of

their things tend to have bleaching

elements in it it took me forever to

find a face wash that didn't have a

bleaching element and I wish I would

have known that in advance cuz I would

have just brought my own

another thing is sunscreen it tends to

be almost double the price so if you

know you're going to go to a beach or a

tropical paradise to save you some time

I would just throw in a bottle of

sunscreen in advance and bring that with

you on your trip just one more thing

that I thought that tend to be super

expensive there it was tampons they

don't have a lot of them oftentimes I

couldn't even find them in stores unless

I was in like a touristy area so I would

bring those in advance they're super

expensive there so just throw in a box

and you're good to go

the second category is gonna be closed a

lot of travelers say this if you travel

to a country do not fill your suitcase

up to the limit and that cannot be more

true with Thailand however if you think

you're gonna make huge bargains buying

Adidas shoes or Levi's pants this is not

gonna be true these brands tend to be

more expensive in Thailand if you go to

a mall and you go to these Adidas store

to a proper sports shop that has Nike

and all that good stuff it's gonna be

more expensive how about what you should

do is you should go to the night markets

night markets are ever

we're in Thailand even during the day

there are bazaars or places that sell

clothes that are comparable to night

markets at the night markets you can get

amazing bargains for example I bought

these pants pretty basic pants they are

100 baht 150 baht this shirt 100 by the

shirt Adidas brand net it's 200 baht

they also have if you want these

elephant pants like 100 hundred 50 baht

one thing that was more expensive I

notice any name-brand products so these

are Crocs I live in them I love them you

can get sandals for like $30 they're 100

baht but these are imported they were 50

dollars and Thailand because of the

import tax that they have a really high

import tax and I could get it in the US

for $15 if you have specific shoes or

specifically clothing products that you

want just bring them and then find the

rest of it there now that thing awesome

I love them cheap sunglasses they have

sunglasses for 100 baht everywhere all

different kinds of course they're

knock-offs

but the nice thing about that is you

don't have to be that careful with them

so in the end leave some space in your

suitcase and buy yourself some cheap

clothes at the night markets third

category that we will be talking about

is cash our major point of advice is get

a card a debit card a credit card with

no ATM or foreign transaction fees

that'll save you a ton of money

whether you're withdrawing from an ATM

it's like 252 bought every withdrawal or

you're paying with your credit card at a

store there will be a thief

cash is king in Thailand most people

will prefer cash whether you're going to

a night market or a restaurant or just

the store a lot of them prefer cash and

they will ask you if you have cash

instead of a card you can use your

credit card or debit card at like a

grocery store or some of the big malls

that's fine but just to let you know

they don't use a credit card like we do

in the states to swipe swipe swipe I get

this question a lot whether you should

bring a lot of cash with you there are

places where you can exchange your money

all over the place whether it's

Airport or malls or outside in the town

they've taken a pretty good cut and it's

not a great exchange rate it's not the

one you'll find on Google but it tends

to be better than the ones you'll get

back home so it's best to bring your

home currency and exchange it there

versus transferring Thai Baht in advance

oh so a fourth point we're going to talk

about is medicine and drugs overall you

don't have to be nervous Thailand has an

awesome hospital and pharmacy network

the hospitals are pretty much up to date

they have they have good equipment they

have very good doctors that take care of

you and they have pharmacies everywhere

and it's a lot easier to get most of the

drugs in Thailand than it is at home

because for a lot of things in Thailand

you do not need a prescription also

everything you get in the pharmacies is

way cheaper than back home back home in

the US you would need a prescription for

like thyroid medication high blood

pressure medication or maybe birth

control they have that all the local

pharmacies they're available you can buy

it there it's cheaper their birth

control if you have a specific dosage of

progesterone or hormones I would check

to see if it's available in Thailand in

advance because I know they have only

specific ones in Asia that's not always

offered in the US and vice versa

like any prescription medication check

to see if it's available check to see if

you need it and then kind of go from

there another thing I would not bring is

anti back spray that's one thing I

packed when I first came to Thailand and

it was pretty expensive Thailand is

aware of the mosquitos they have the

good anti black spray everywhere and

it's much cheaper than back home

this category we'll be talking about

today is electronic slash adapters in

Thailand you do not need an adapter if

you're coming from the USA or some

European countries they have outlets

that accommodate both American plugs and

these European plugs so it's super

convenient if you're going there you

don't really need it most of your phone

and laptop charges have an internal

converter so that's fine but if you're

coming from the US we use a hundred and

ten volts in Thailand it's 200 plus

volts so you will need a converter if

you're bringing like a hairdryer or

anything that requires that that voltage

just let you know I will say that if

you're traveling outside of Thailand at

least a kuala lumpur we know that we

needed an adapter for that just FYI look

that up in advance but in Thailand you

do not need an adapter I quickly want to

talk about buying electronics in

Thailand so I was hoping that in

Thailand you can get good bargains for

electronics that is usually not the case

if you look at stuff that has a name on

it if it's a new samsung phone with it's

a canon camera anything like that is

either gonna be the same price or more

expensive than back home buying

expensive electronics is not a good deal

in Thailand however what you can get is

GoPro I bought a couple of GoPro

accessories there these self course

knockoffs off the real ones they have it

at the night markets and everywhere and

if you negotiate with the salespeople

it's gonna be a very good deal we bought

this little Bluetooth speaker and I

looked it up again JBL it was more

expensive than back home don't you plan

on buying electronics Italian it might

not be the best idea don't count on

getting any awesome deals there so our

next point is gonna be documents

Thailand is a pretty bureaucratic

country it's very important to have the

right documents with you at all times if

you want to go to China and riding a

scooter renting a scooter renting a car

it's an awesome idea if you're up for it

what you really really need to bring is

a driver's license and you will need an

international driver's license I thought

that out of being stopped by cops I did

not bring my luck driver's license I

just brought my German driver's license

which is not enough before you go you

have to apply for an

national driver's license this

international driver's license only

valid with your normal driver's license

combined you have to carry both of them

with you at all time there are a lot of

checkpoints in Thailand where they pull

people over and especially people who

seem to be tourists another one that's

important is if you intend to work in

Thailand you will need a background

check a police clearance and that has to

be in English language so if you come

from another country like me I'm from

Germany you need to have it translated

by an official institution first bring

that if you intend to work so when you

move around the Thailand you need to be

able to identify yourself at all times

your international ID part is your

passport that will require you to carry

out your passport at all times however

sometimes places like the hotel or a

scooter rental place requires you to

leave your passport there so what we did

is we got clean copies of our passports

which we would carry around at all times

if police officers stopped you and they

check for your passport they usually

always just find with that

so always bring a copy of your passport

or your original passport number seven

apps in technology it's become necessary

for us to have one of these with us at

all times whenever we go into another

country we usually immediately go to get

a local SIM card international SIM cards

are super expensive so we usually stick

with the local plan in Thailand we've

used AIS and true I think it was like

six hundred baht for five gigabytes of

data which is a lot of data and you're

good to go you're going to use your

phone you can use all the different apps

and upload to your social media if you

want what are the best apps that we used

all the time and we actually didn't

learn about it until we went to Thailand

was the grab app the grab app is very

similar to ver it's a taxi service app

it's very convenient that's what's great

about this app is it's convenient you

just put your destination in and you're

good to go you don't worry about if the

taxi driver speaks English you can even

put your credit card or debit card in

there or you have the

to pay cash on the end so it's really

convenient it's sometimes cheaper then

taxis depending on a season meter

depending on where you are but probably

is it getting from the airport to our

hotel when we arrive a last point number

eight it's one of the most important

things to bring the time is just a good

attitude China is known to be the Land

of Smiles and that's what you experience

when you go there so that's what you

should bring as well have a good ever

attitude and open mind and be just

friendly towards people so I enjoy your

travel to Thailand

thanks so much for watching our video we

really hope this helps you and your

future travels to Thailand let us know

in the comments below if you have any

questions or suggestions on things that

you guys like to bring if you like this

video please give it a thumbs up check

out our other videos if you liked it

please subscribe it would mean the world

to us and we greatly appreciate it

thanks so much for watching now and

we'll see you next time bye

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