When you plan a trip to Thailand, chances are you are wondering what clothes to pack. Well, when packing for a country as culturally rich as Thailand, there are a few things that you want to watch out for. And so, here are the do’s and don’ts of what to wear in Thailand.
In Thailand, there is a required dress code for tourists and locals when visiting temples. The general rule is to cover your shoulders and knees for both women and men, preferably your ankles. Other than that, Thailand is a modest country even though they are used to under-dressed foreigners.
Look, dressing appropriately in a foreign country has a few benefits. Most importantly, you would most likely enjoy better service. So, be sure to read through this article. Hopefully, we can help you avoid a few common mistakes.
Everyday Outfits that are Acceptable to Wear in Thailand.
Thai culture values modesty, and first appearances are important in Thailand. When you dress appropriately, you will be treated with respect and get better service. The Thai culture requires tourists to dress conservatively in public.
Thailand is sunny, humid, and hot. Sweating is definitely on the agenda no matter what you wear. However, before you start packing all the sleeveless or see-through shirts and those little shorts, here are some tasteful suggestions for everyday wear in Thailand.
The Do’s.
Ladies’ everyday wear.
For the ladies, it is advised to pack summer dresses, shorts, and skirts. Bohemian dresses are a favorite that can be worn anywhere as well as out at night. Tasteful tops that cover your shoulders are a definite do! Tops can either be flowing or fitted but should be of good quality.
A very important note to remember is, please don’t have any cleavage showing. Lacy and sheer fabric is a good way to stay cool, but make sure you wear a slip or camisole underneath. Even though it is acceptable to wear shorts and short skirts, you should not be able to see any part of the body deemed inappropriate.
Men everyday wear.
For men, the best everyday wear in Thailand is button-down collared shirts, polo shirts paired with Bermuda or golf shorts. Good quality t-shirts and cargo shorts are also very acceptable. When planning a night out on the town, you should consider packing a pair of casual pants that can be paired with a tasteful polo shirt. Cotton or linen full-length trousers for men are great, paired with long sleeve cotton or linen top.
Comfortable Feet.
It rains a lot in Thailand, so many shoes made of rubber or a plastic composite are a perfect choice. These are easy to clean and waterproof. Wearing flip-flops are acceptable. Crocs may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they are a lifesaver in Thailand. Crocs are lightweight, waterproof, comfortable, and bacteria-free; they are pretty much the optimal shoe for Thailand’s climate.
It is recommended to always take your shoes off before entering a temple or someone’s house. Look out for a pile of shoes outside of an entranceway; that is a clear giveaway to remove your shoes, too, when you enter.
High heels might look cute, but you may simultaneously break an ankle and knock out a few front teeth. Thailand has bad sidewalks, and you have a good chance of faceplanting on a sidewalk when wearing high heels. Rather go with low wedges or espadrilles to give you a bit more to balance on.
Don’t think about wearing combat or hiking or boots and socks for everyday wear. You will find your feet cooked, and you could develop a case of athlete’s foot.
Do not walk around barefoot in Thailand. We all know some free-spirited people who like to connect with Mother Earth but not in Thailand. Walking barefoot around the city and entering a temple, shop, or home is considered dirty and potentially offensive.
The lovely islands will make you feel free to let go of cultural norms, but there are specific rules in Thai culture about feet.
Please don’t sit down and put your feet up to point at people waking past or sitting opposite you. Soles of the feet should always remain on the floor.
What Outfit to Wear to a Temple or Palace in Thailand.
Generally, when visiting a temple in Thailand, the rule is that both the knees and shoulders should be covered, which applies to both women and men.
The strictest dress code in Thailand applies to the compound of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, which is a Royal venue. Some of the other temples in Thailand have less strict rules. However, the Thailand temple dress code is similar throughout the country.
The temples with the most tourist traffic have signs informing visitors to cover up; unfortunately, you will still see many oblivious tourists who miss this final memo.
Stick with easy slip-on shoes to wear to a Thai temple. You need to take your shoes off and leave them at the gate. It is best not to wear laced shoes as you will end up tying and untying shoelaces a lot. For temples wearing closed-toe shoes are more appropriate, whether it is loafers, canvas, or flats.
As for socks, bring a pair of ankle socks with you when visiting a Thai temple or Palace, which you can put on at the temple entrance. You must leave your shoes outside the temple and enter barefoot; however, the tiled floors at temples get extremely hot in Thailand and can be painful to walk upon.
Take care when wearing socks inside the temple because the floor can be slippery. This would be the only time you would consider wearing socks in Thailand other than using a pair of socks at the hotel gym. Pay attention to the dress codes at temples to not offend anyone.
The Don’ts
What NOT to wear at a Thai Temple.
Here is the list of clothing for both men and women you should NOT wear in the Grand Palace compound in Thailand:
- Sleeveless shirts
- Hats
- Short tops
- Vests
- Shorts and even shortened pants
- See-through shirts
- Torn pants or shirts.
- Tight pants such as leggings
- Miniskirts
- Sandals without ankle or heel straps
When visiting the compound of the Grand Palace in Thailand, the most important thing is to make sure your dress modestly. Dressing modestly will allow you entry and avoid offending Thai culture.
The guards at the entrance might refuse your entry if you are not wearing appropriate clothing. There are small shops directly across the street that sell appropriate clothing. However, it would be a lot cheaper if you came dressed correctly at first.
Thai sarong wraps can be used as a skirt or as a scarf. These sarong wraps are sold everywhere in Thailand, and they cost about THB 150 (USD 4,80 or EUR 4,18) each.
You will often see tourists in Thailand, especially near temples, wear blue and white sarongs. White, red, and blue are Thai national colors.
Dress codes and rules may vary at each temple. For example, at Wat Phra Singh temple in Chiang Mai, you must cover your shoulders and pay a small amount for the sarong, which you can return after you visit the temple and get your money back.
One of the most beautiful temples in Thailand is the Grand Palace temple, but you can find many other temples in Thailand without guards or cameras. However, even though there is no one around at these temples, you should still respect the culture by taking your shoes off and dressing appropriately.
Thailand Night Club Dress Code.
Most high-end establishments might not let you in Bangkok if you are dressed in worn shorts or flip-flops. Wear a long-sleeve shirt, pants, and full shoes if you are a guy. Women should wear smart dresses or summer dresses or if they chose appropriate pants and shirts. Thailand is a status-minded country; when you dress a little nicer, you get treated a little better and enjoy many privileges that Thailand can offer to you.
What Outfits to Wear on the Beach in Thailand.
We all go to Thailand because of the famous and gorgeous beaches, but make sure you cover up appropriately as soon as you are leaving the beach. Try to choose a swimsuit for Thailand that is on the more modest end of the spectrum. Halter tops and retro-style swimsuits make this very easy to do.
When you stay somewhere private, like at an Airbnb, you could wear any swimsuit you like. When staying at a beach resort or on a Thai beach for the day, your private bits are best left to the imagination.
You might see Thais that are fully clothed at the beach. It is okay for tourists to wear swim shorts and ladies to wear two-piece bathing suits while on the beach in Thailand. However, make sure this is only done at the beach and not while walking down the main street.
As soon as you step off the beach sand and start to venture into town, you should grab a beach coverup. For the ladies, this means wearing a sarong or wrap that covers the chest and belly. The guys could grab a t-shirt, not sleeveless, to wear over the swimming trunks.
There are many shops in Thailand’s beach towns that sell airy coverups and wraps. They also sell sunglasses and big floppy sun hats to protect you from the sun when you need them.
Ladies should wear swimsuits that are not too revealing, especially in areas of Thailand bordering Malaysia; there is a large, conservative Muslim population living there. Revealing swimwear will certainly offend in that area.
Thongs are a NO and might attract the wrong attention to you. The beach is a pretty relaxed area. In Thai culture, topless bathing is unacceptable. What you need to pay attention to is when walking away from the beach, you should always cover up and do not walk through a neighboring beach town without wearing shoes and a sarong or t-shirt.
What To Wear in Phuket.
Here are four occasions when you should pay attention to what you are wearing when in Phuket.
- Visiting Phuket in high season
- When going on an island-hopping tour on a speedboat
- Driving a bus or a minibus
- Driving a scooter
Appropriate Outfits to Wear in Phuket During the High Season – January to March.
The good news about what to wear during the high season in Phuket is that casual is always acceptable everywhere. You should dress comfortably and do not worry about sudden rain showers. The average temperatures in Thailand from January to March are around 32 °C. This is when the humidity is at its lowest. Shorts, skirts, flip-flops, and sunglasses are the best combo for Phuket. An additional straw hat is a good choice as well.
What to Wear on a Speedboat?
If it is sunny, relax and enjoy but be aware that sometimes it might get chilly because of the strong wind so, take something warm with you to wear when out on the boat.
Appropriate Clothing to Wear for Bus rides in Phuket.
In Thailand, there are air conditioners everywhere because of the hot, humid weather. Air conditioners are in supermarkets, trains, taxis, buses. They are generally all turned up to the max. Taking a bus ride from Phuket airport to Phuket Town can take up to two hours, depending on the bus, route, and traffic. Taking a jacket or hoodie will be a good choice for the ride.
What to Wear when Driving a Scooter in Thailand.
When going for a scooter ride in Thailand, first off, you should wear a helmet for your safety. Avoid being stopped by the Thai police and asked for documents by wearing a helmet when driving your scooter. Comfortable shoes and clothes with a jacket are advisable for scooter riders. Most guys wear swimming shorts instead of trunks when riding a scooter which is fine. Either way, it is good etiquette to put on shorts and a t-shirt when riding a scooter around.
What to Wear in Chiang Mai.
You should pack some warm clothing if you plan a trip to Chiang Mai because the city is in northern Thailand, and the air temperature is noticeably lower than in Bangkok or Phuket.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chiang Mai. This temple is located 1 050 meters (3 445 ft) above sea level; it is advised to wear sneakers, long pants, and a hoodie if getting there by scooter.
Appropriate Outfits to Wear in Thailand during the Rainy Season.
Below is the list of most appropriate clothing to wear in Thailand during the rainy season:
- Waterproof and windproof coat
- Clothing that dries quickly like leggings, linen pants, and a shirt.
- Rain poncho
- Slip-proof weatherproof shoes
- Running shoes
- During the rainy season in Thailand, which is in September and October, it might get windier and colder than you would normally expect.
Is It Appropriate to Wear Shorts in Bangkok?
You will notice that most Thai men wear long pants in public places, and only a few will ever wear shorts. Bangkok is always too hot and humid, and it is almost unbearable without shorts. It is not frowned upon to wear shorts in Bangkok as long as you show no protruding body parts.
In Bangkok, it is okay for ladies to wear skirts and shorts a little above their knees. Because of the heat and humidity in Bangkok, you should not wear any tight-fitting clothes. It is best to choose breathable and loose-fitting clothing instead.
Best Fabrics to Wear in Thailand:
- Linen
- Wicking fabric
- Silk
- Synthetic
- Lightweight cotton
Loose-fitting clothes are the best because sweating is on the agenda. Choose light, airy clothing. Thailand gets very humid, to the point that you will find yourself sweating a few minutes right after you just had a shower. On hot days with many outdoor activities, wearing running sportswear is the best option for surviving the heat and humidity in Thailand.
Appropriate Outfits to Wear When in the City or Shopping Mall.
When you go shopping, stick to the general rules of modesty, wear clean, non-revealing clothes. Smart casual is a good way to describe a modest dress code. Again, just because you see another tourist wearing revealing, see-through clothing does not mean you should do it too.
You may see a woman wearing a mini skirt with high heels, or a guy with a t-shirt rolled up to his chest to give his stomach some breathing space, but that does not mean it is acceptable to do the same.
Ladies, please wear a bra or a sports bra if that is more comfortable in the heat. Nipple exposure is completely offensive.
Guys, please do not wear Euro-style shorts where everything is on show. Please wear an appropriate shirt when in the city shopping or walking in the shopping malls.
10 Essentials for Your Packing List to Thailand.
- A comfortable pair of breathable walking shoes that you can slip on and off without effort.
- A versatile and non-wrinkly shawl.
- Loose, breathable linen pants.
- Sunglasses and a sun hat.
- Men: Polo or collared shirts.
- Women: A beach coverup or sarong.
- Sunscreen.
- Light, quick-dry t-shirts for extra hot days.
- A shawl or a raincoat: also available in Thailand from 7-Eleven.
- Mosquito repellant.
11 General Tips to Remember for your Trip to Thailand.
- Always remember that you are a visitor, and therefore you should act respectful and be polite. Sometimes that means dressing modestly, even when you see other persons doing the opposite.
- Avoid revealing outfits in rural towns and the city.
- Always wear appropriate clothing when visiting sacred and holy sites.
- There is a good chance you will see a monk when visiting a temple. The Monks are highly respected, so try to keep your head below a monk as you pass him by and duck a little if you are tall, and if you are a woman, do not touch them.
- Mosquitoes: they are especially active at night; spray insect repellent on your arms and legs.
- Shower regularly: the Kingdom is hot and humid, and you are likely to get sweaty after a few hours of activity. Thai culture consists of cleanliness and good personal hygiene.
- In addition to frequent showers, using a good antiperspirant is a good idea.
- Sunlight in Thailand may be much stronger than what you are used to preparing for the sun. Pack a hat, sunblock, and shades to keep cool.
- Avoid using moisturizer. It will block your pores and make your skin sweat even more.
- Use light makeup that will not sweat, drip, and stain your clothes.
- Do your laundry frequently: Everywhere in Thailand, there are many self-service laundromats. Laundry can be done cheaper at your hotel or guesthouse. Take advantage of these services and wash your clothes often to avoid smelly, sweaty clothes.
It’s not all Bikinis and Flip flops in Thailand.
You might think Thailand is a country where everyone wears bikinis, shorts, and flip-flops. Most tourists and most commonly in Phuket people dress like that, and it is considered fine. But there is a non-spoken dress code required in public places like temples, shopping malls, cinemas, office buildings, and other public locations where dressing more modestly is required. Always wear appropriate outfits in Thailand while you visit.
Conclusion.
Generally, appropriate outfits to wear while on holiday in Thailand should be of the more modest kind. Always respect Holy sites by wearing appropriate outfits that cover your shoulders and knees. Choose lightweight clothes that are cool to wear in the hot, humid climate. Consider modest, smart casual as to be the acceptable fashion of the day in Thailand.
Cover up when leaving the beach and wear something smart out at night. Thailand is a wonderful place to visit, and when you respect the Thai culture, you will have a great time on holiday.
