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.