A stay in Thailand is easy to enjoy—as long as you’re a little prepared. Here are my top recommendations for what to bring, or pick up locally, to make your stay safer, smoother, and more comfortable.

As a start, you can even before leaving home do the required Digital Arrival Card online. And save you time and problems as you arrive in Thailand.

1. Vinegar

Vinegar is incredibly useful in tropical areas. It helps neutralize venom from jellyfish, sea urchins, and other stings. It’s often available locally, but reassuring to have on hand. Limejuice will also work.

2. Mosquito repellent and mosquito coils

Thailand is lush, green, and beautiful—and that also means mosquitoes, especially in shaded areas and at dusk. Good protection makes evenings far more pleasant.

3. Tiger balm

A classic remedy that works for almost everything: sore muscles, stiff necks, back pain—and itchy mosquito bites. Always in my bag.

4. Cat food

There are a lot of stray cats all over Thailand, most of them friendly and sweet. Carrying a little cat food adds an extra layer of joy and connection during your stay.

5. Hand sanitizer

If you’re like me and can’t resist petting every adorable cat, it’s very handy to clean your hands afterward. Useful in general, too, in the heat.

6. Sun hat and sunglasses

The light is intense, reflections from the sea are strong, and the beaches are bright. Protecting your face and eyes with more than just sunscreen is both smart and comfortable.

7. Sunscreen

Obvious, but worth repeating. Use a high SPF and reapply often—the sun is stronger than you think.

8. A waterproof bag

Extremely useful for boat trips, snorkeling, swimming, or beach days. Keeps your phone, money, and valuables completely dry.

9. Iodine for wound care

This is something I rarely see at home, but it’s been a family staple ever since we lived in hot climates when I was a child. In tropical heat, it’s crucial to clean even the smallest cuts properly. Too many people have suffered lasting damage by not taking minor wounds seriously early on.

10. A little extra care—for yourself and your surroundings

The heat, humidity, and relaxed pace affect us all. Stay hydrated, take breaks, be polite, and show respect—to both people and animals. It makes the entire experience better.

It is legal in Thailand to both sell and smoke cannabis. However, I would still encourage people not to do so in a way that causes discomfort to others. Unfortunately, it is quite common to be surrounded by the smell—on the beach, on boat trips, and even in restaurants. Personally, I feel unwell from the odor.