When packing for a trek, the most important thing is to keep it simple – the less luggage you have to carry, the more you will enjoy yourself. The comfort of your shoes and backpack will also have a huge influence on your level of enjoyment so don’t sacrifice the quality of these two items! Even the most experienced hikers are sometimes unsure what is necessary in Thailand’s tropical climate so we have collated our recommendations below and provided the ultimate packing list for hiking in Thailand.

Note: Items in green are provided or carried by the trekking guide on all Active Thailand hikes (unless stated). However if hiking independently or with another provider, it’s important to ensure you have these items.

DAY HIKE PACKING LIST

• sturdy running shoes or lightweight trekking shoes
• short or long pants comfortable for trekking
• cotton/synthetic t-shirt
• comfortable day pack
• sunhat
• sunglasses
• mosquito repellent
• sunscreen
• drinking water (at least 2 Litres per person)
• nutritious lunch + energy snacks
• basic first aid kit
• cellphone / other communication device
• GPS / Map

MULTI-DAY HIKE PACKING LIST

• sturdy running shoes or lightweight trekking shoes
• comfortable 30L – 40L backpack
• waterproof sunscreen
• mosquito repellent
• sunhat
• sunglasses
• 2 cotton T-shirts (one for hiking, one dry for the evening)
• 1 pair of short or long hiking pants
• 1 pair of long lightweight pants (for the evening)
• 2 pairs of socks
• sandals or flip-flops
• light rain jacket or windbreaker
• 1 quick dry towel
• swimsuit; just in case we come across a waterfall for a refreshing dip
• toiletries, medications and personal effects
• small flashlight
• wet wipes
• drinking water; minimum 2 litres per day (more in the hot season)
• food and snacks
• sleeping bag (or liner for locations with constant high temperatures)
• tent / hammock
• cooking equipment (check beforehand what facilities are available at overnight locations)
• mosquito net
• basic first aid kit
• cellphone / other communication device
• GPS / Map

Seasonal

• RAINY SEASON: plastic rain poncho
• COLD SEASON: warm fleece jacket (in some places temperatures can drop to 5 °C  or lower)

Optional

• Camera/Cellphone in waterproof bag
• Hiking poles; alternatively you find bamboo ones in the jungle

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE HIKING GEAR? WOULD YOU ADD ANYTHING TO THE LIST? COMMENT BELOW!

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