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WHAT TO BRING
Bring as little as possible - one medium-sized shoulder bag,
duffel bag or backpack should do. Pack lightweight clothes, unless you're
going to be in the North in the cool season, in which case you should
have a pullover. Natural fibres can be cool and comfortable, except when
they get soaked with sweat or rain, in which case they quickly become
heavy and block air flow. Some of the lightweight synthetics breathe better
than natural fibres, draw sweat away rather than holding it in, and may
be more suitable for the beach or mid-rainy season.
Sunglasses are a must for most people and can be bought cheaply
in Bangkok and most provincial capitals. Slip-on shoes or sandles are
highly recommended - besides being cooler than lace-up shoes, they are
easily removed before entering a Thai home or temple. A small torch (flashlight)
is a good idea, as it makes it easier to find your way back to your bungalow
at night if you are staying at the beach or at a remote guest-house. A
few other handy things include a compass, a plastic lighter for lighting
candles and mosquito coils (lighters, candles and 'mossie' coils are available
in Thailand) and foam ear plugs for noisy nights.
Toothpaste, soap and most other toiletries can be purchased
anywhere in Thailand. Sun block and mosquito repellent (except high-percentage
DEET) are available, although they can be expensive and the quality of
both is generally substandard. If you plan to wash your own clothes, bring
along a universal sink plug, a few plastic clothes pegs and three metres
of plastic coed or plastic hangers for hanging wet clothes out to dry.
If you plan to spend a great deal of time in one or more of
Thailand's beach areas, you might want to bring your own snorkel and mask.
This would save you having to rent such gear and would also assure a proper
fit. Shoes designed for water sports, eg Aquasocks, are great for wearing
in the water wheater you're diving or not. They protect your feet from
coral cuts, which easily become infected.
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