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Southeast Asia is one of my very favorite places in the world; and Thailand in particular is near and dear to my heart. This is a region rich with culture, food, fun, and a budget that all travelers can enjoy.
I spent 5 months backpacking Southeast Asia in 2010 during my RTW trip; 8 months in 2012; 6 more months between 2013/2014; and continue to live here on and off currently. Hope you enjoy my packing list for a backpacking trip to Southeast Asia!
What to Wear When Backpacking Southeast Asia
The countries that make up Southeast Asia include Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Borneo, Philippines, and Indonesia. Check out my suggested South East Asia backpacking routes for itinerary ideas during your time here.
Singapore is a metropolitan city so the typical backpacking gear won’t work here. Check out this Singapore packing list for more tips.
Earrings | Sunglasses | Guide | Sunscreen
To make sure this Southeast Asia packing list is as accurate as possible, I’ve teamed up with Kaila Krayewski from the Blonde Traveler that has lived in Thailand for over 5 years and has also spent extensive time backpacking Southeast Asia. She’s passionate about making travel more fun and friendlier for western women and created Blonde Traveler to do just that.
Travel Tip: I highly recommend using the Lonely Planet Southeast Asia on a Shoestring guide book. I absolutely love the transportation guides plus – if you’re traveling alone – this is most popular guide for backpackers in the area so it can help you meet other travelers too! You can also get the eBook version.
Southeast Asia Clothing Style
Unlike other destinations, there are far fewer expectations when backpacking Southeast Asia in terms of attire. This is due largely to the climate.
With average temperatures in the 80s and 90s, the extreme humidity makes it near impossible to put together a decent outfit because you’ll be sweating buckets the entire time.
It’s not good enough to pack lightweight clothing when you travel into places like Cambodia and Vietnam. You might think natural fabrics would be ideal and take jersey cotton tees and leggings.
However, some cotton modal blends sag—a lot—once damp with your sweat. A shirt that starts off waist length will be past your hips in less than an hour. This is because cotton will hold up to 7 percent of its weight in moisture. You need to add a few quick-dry, moisture-wicking tops and pants to your travel capsule wardrobe for your journey into Southeast Asia.
Read more about the pros and cons of traveling with cotton!
Wicking fabrics are made from a high-tech polyester that is specially designed to draw moisture away from your body to the garment’s exterior. Compared to cotton, wicking fabrics hold only 0.4 percent of their weight in moisture.
This makes a huge difference when you’re nonstop sweating. I packed a couple pairs of moisture-wicking pants and tanks that I often wear to hot yoga because they’re made to hold up well in heat. They fared much better than my other knit clothes, which were stretched beyond recognition.
Don’t forget to pack moisture-wicking under garments such as these. Bras and panties are the closest thing to your skin, and they will get soaked through with sweat. I ended up living in the few sports bras and polyester panties I’d brought with me.
Read more about how to choose the best fabrics for travel!
Tank | Blouse | Top | Tee | Dress | Playsuit | Trousers | Short | Sweater | Jacket | Tank | Dress | Sandals 1 | Sandals 2 | Hat | Crossbody
12-Piece Packing List for Backpacking Southeast Asia
In the above visual, I’ve created a classic packing list of just 12 clothing items that would work well when backpacking through Southeast Asia. In the looks above you can also get outfit ideas for some major travel destinations in the region.
Tip: To pack light, use packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video and keep your belongings organized!
Dresses
- 1 (Maxi) Dress/Skirt – a long skirt is a cooler option to wearing pants in the heat
- 1 Sun Dress – can’t beat the comfort of light and airy summer dresses
- 1 Shorter Dress – can also be used as a beach tunic and worn as a top
Bottoms
- 1 Linen Cargo Pants – can be worn casually in towns and also paired with tennis shoes for trekking
- 1 Knee Length Cargo Shorts – cover the knees to stay cool and modest at all times
- 1 Denim Shorts – a SEA beach town must have
Tops
- 3 Short Sleeve Tops – flowy and breathable fabric allows you to maintain modest while staying cooler
- 1 Sleeveless Top – a SEA beach town must have, plus it’s hot!
A note on tops: pack them in varying lengths but if you prefer sleeveless, pack more sleeveless and if you prefer long sleeves, pack light, airy fabrics.
Outerwear
Pack a couple of warm items depending on your planned activities: if the temperature drops post-rain, if you’re trekking, or for colder areas like Sapa in Northern Vietnam. However, if you opt not to (as I do), inexpensive clothing can be easily purchased.
- 1 Fleece, Hoodie, or Cardigan
- 1 Rain Jacket or Light Jacket
Footwear
- 1 Flip Flops – ESSENTIAL for a backpacking trip to Southeast Asia! Choose a pair of flip flops that can be dressed up like my favorite iPanema’s sandals. These not only work like flip flops but as a dressier pair of sandals too. Plus, they’re cute and comfy!
- 1 Comfortable Walking Shoe – Outdoor sandals or Birkenstock sandals. Your feet need to breathe. It’s too hot to wear tennis shoes/trainers every day.
- 1 Functional – depending on your activities nice sandals or tennis shoes/trainers. Read more about choosing the best shoes for travel.
Travel tip: Remember, don’t pack just in case items, anything you need you can buy here for a low price! Keep reading for more tips below.
Scarf | Bikini | Tank | Dress | Skirt | Long Shorts | Shorts | Flip Flops | Sandals
More Travel Outfit Ideas for Backpacking Southeast Asia
Everyone is in the same boat. Not a single person is going to judge you for wearing the same harem-style MC Hammer pants you bought at the market to dinner three nights in a row. They’re comfortable and cute. Not to mention every other woman will be wearing the exact same thing. You can’t shoot a dart in the dark without hitting a woman in that style of pants.
If you really want to take something nice “just in case,” consider a linen dress or flowy peasant blouse. A polyester romper would also do the trick. But limit yourself to one or two items at most. You simply won’t have a need for more.
How to Pack for Monsoon Season
Don’t let rainy season ruin your travel plans. After experiencing a taste of the Thailand monsoon in 2010, the biggest mistake I made in 2012 was allowing the rainy season to scare me into rushing through cities with the hopes of avoiding the rain. (We very much dislike the rain and avoid it at all costs.) In the end, it wasn’t so bad after all.
The point is that you can’t control these situations or foresee how the weather will turn out. Go with the flow on your South East Asia holidays, and see where your travel experience takes you.
If you end up somewhere you don’t like, jump on one of the many inexpensive transportation options and move on. It’s not uncommon to meet up with new friends over in a neighboring country.
FOR THAILAND: Any time throughout the year you will find rain somewhere in this vast country. From my observations: the western southern islands get hit May-September; the eastern southern islands get hit October – February; and the mainland can receive rain year any time although peak times are May – September.
For the most part, it would be too hot to wear rain jackets but if you have varied travel plans it may not hurt to bring one along just make sure it’s made from lightweight, breathable materials.
Kaila with Blonde Traveler says: If you’re visiting during Monsoon season,and even if you’re not, it’s a good idea to grab a cheap plastic raincoat from the 7/11, and carry it with you at all times. You never know when the monsoon will hit.
For more raincoat ideas, click here.
What to Wear in Southeast Asia for Monsoon Season
While it’s advised to pack a rain coat for the rain, I find an umbrella is convenient because the rain comes with the heat and it’s never a good combo with a muggy jacket. Plus, you can use it to block the sun. As Kaila, suggests, you can also pick up a cheap poncho if you opt against carrying a rain jacket (as I do).
TRAVEL TIP: Please keep your planned activities in mind including trekking. If you know you will be participating in outdoor activities, plan accordingly.
Backpacking Southeast Asia Packing Don’ts
I can’t stress enough that you can basically buy an entire wardrobe upon arrival when backpacking through Southeast Asia. Two of the most common travel gateways to the are Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. You can find anything you want and you can even have clothing custom made at a low cost practically anywhere in SEA.
Whether it’s clothing or toiletries; you’ll be okay! 7-11 is a god-send providing (air conditioning!), food, beer, makeup, beauty products, and everything else in between for a small cost. For clothing, you can find markets almost everywhere and you’re never far from a fun shopping opportunity. Pack light!
Kaila with Blonde Traveler says: If shopping in Bangkok, head to Platinum Fashion Mall, which has 5 floors of everything a woman could ever dream of wearing, for most price ranges, though most of it is relatively cheap. Everywhere else, inexpensive clothing is available in local markets. Thais love clothes, so you won’t have a problem finding something you love, to fit your budget!
If you’re headed to Cambodia to see the wondrous Angkor Wat, stop by the boutique in Siem Reap which features Rany Som’s exquisite jewelry line Graines de Combodge. I love the coral inspired necklace!
Waterproof Mascara | ChapStick Sun Defense SPF 25
Makeup and Toiletries for Backpacking Southeast Asia
As for makeup and hair products when backpacking Southeast Asia, don’t worry too much about them. Cosmetics will literally melt off your face the minute you step outside of your air-conditioning. However, if you do like wearing makeup, follow these and these tips to help it stay on for longer periods of time.
Aside from lip balm, mascara, and sunscreen, I wouldn’t recommend putting anything else on your face. Bring a ponytail holder if your hair is long, and expect to wear it up the entire time. It’s hard to manage your hair, no matter the texture, in this climate.
Take a look at these tips on how to style curly hair while traveling!
Secret Bra Pouch | Hidden Waist Passport Holder
Southeast Asia Safety
So long as you practice common sense, backpacking Southeast Asia is generally safe for female travelers. The most common scam is for someone to drive by on scooters and pull off your purse. They cut the straps of your purse or they may even drive off with you in it if it’s not easy to cut. (Read one traveler’s story here.)
This is the main reason why this is one location we may not recommend an anti-theft purse – it’s difficult to slash the wired straps so you may be dragged down the street along with your bag. Instead, choose a backpack purse instead or carry your money in your pockets and use a bra stash.
Keep it simple. Leave your valuables locked away in your room and wear a money belt or other anti-theft products.
Learn more about how to keep your valuables safe while traveling!
TFG Recommends: For girls backpacking Southeast Asia solo, check out Blonde Traveler. They provide a unique resource for women if you want extra assurance during your trip. Their membership includes: live translation help, legal advice, dietary advice, tracking services, emergency assistance, live travel counseling, and travel discounts.
What are your essentials for backpacking Southeast Asia?
For more posts on backpacking Southeast Asia, please read:
- Packing List for the Thailand Islands
- Southeast Asia Packing List for Women
- What to Wear in Cambodia
- What to Wear in Vietnam
- What to Wear in Myanmar
- What to Wear in Bali
- What to Wear in Malaysia
- What to Wear in Singapore
Suggested Travel Resources:
Thanks for the tips! I’m traveling to Asia this winter. Even though I’ve traveled in the region extensively, it was some 3 years ago, and I don’t remember anymore what I wore and what I packed. Your article is very useful. 🙂
So glad you found this helpful Oona, have an amazing time!
Hi,
Very helpful post – thanks!
I’m soon to be traveling Thailand and Vietnam for 3 weeks and have quite a few fitted spaghetti style tops to wear with loose fitting shorts, I am concerned that this will not be appropriate in areas but am hoping to pick up clothing there if needed…
I have cover ups for temples and more reserved areas but is it okay to be out and about like this?
Help is much appreciated
Thanks
Alex
Hi Alex, so glad you found the post helpful! Have a look at this TFG article for some more ideas for Thailand: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-travelers-wear-in-thailand-and-other-parts-of-southeast-asia/ You may find it helpful for your packing. Also take a look at this article on Vietnam for some specific tips: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-vietnam/ For some advice for what to wear when visiting temples: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-dress-for-conservative-countries-modest-clothing-essentials/ Hope this helps! Have an amazing trip! 🙂
Hi there, I know this is an older post but do you happen to know the brand of the orange joggers?
Hi Kelly, unfortunately the product sold out some time ago so we’re not sure of the brand. Sorry we couldn’t have been more helpful ?
I’m getting married in Thailand in April 2018. We will be spending time in Denmark (30 hour layover to explore), Thailand, Cambodia, and Japan. Our entire trip will be 4 weeks and a couple days. How do you suggest packing for this type of trip and what bag? Three vastly different climates. I’m trying to only take one bag checked and a carry on. I will be shipping my dress over to a friend, so that’s not an issue. We’ve discussed getting a backpack (due to other trips we have planned where its a necessity), but can a traditional suitcase work? We will be on the move a lot hitting 8 cities.
I think it is a little bit misleading to say that you can buy clothes on arrival in a country like Thailand. I have lived there for 20 years and believe me – until recently – it has been extremely difficult to buy clothes if you are larger in any way than the mostly petite Thai women. We have had to rely mostly on imported brands which can be expensive, eg from Marks and Spencer. It has often been very difficult to find jeans/shorts/trousers to fit western figures. Thankfully now there is H&M and Zara – although Zara sizes in Thailand are quite small. Easier to buy a wider range of sizes in Malaysia, Singapore and Korea. Thailand getting better, but not really much available in Cambodia – maybe some market gear.
A cardigan is very useful to wear in all the air-conditioned shopping centres etc.
A note for visitors to Thailand: if you are going to temples you have to have your shoulders and knees covered. Also this year Thailand is still in mourning for the last King who died in October 2016. You will notice a lot of black and white worn, particularly in Bangkok.
Thank you for your feedback Karyn, we’ll make sure to note this.
My partner and I are travelling to Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan and Malaysia for one month, and Korea and Japan for another month from April to June. I have no idea what kind of backpack I should be purchasing. How many litres do you think is appropriate for a 160cm girl travelling for 2 months?
Thanks for your question Juliet, I wouldn’t go too much over 40L with your petite size. Those are warmer destinations that time of year, so you should be fine packing light for long term! You’ll also have no problem finding super cheap clothing that fits you while there should you need more options! Happy travels! Sounds like an awesome trip!
I love the brown medium crossbody purse in the photo “12 piece backpacking southeast asia packing list”. do you happen to know which brand it is?
Thanks!
It’s this bag: Lodis Blair Gail Medium Crossbody Happy to help!
Great packing list!
Personally, after backpacking in SE Asia twice, I know that I will wear more tanktops than tshirts 🙂
x
Absolutely Stephanie, I always recommend adapting our packing lists to suit your style and comfort. Happy travels!
Hi! I’m traveling solo to Cambodia for 2 weeks! I was wondering if you had problems with people steeling your things?
Hi Camille, thanks for your question! I’ve never had a problem anywhere with people stealing my things but theft can happen anywhere and it does also happen in Cambodia. Take a look at this post: https://travelfashiongirl.com/travel-safety-tips/
Great post – thanks for the advice! Just an FYI – Borneo is not a country! It’s the name of an island, the countries on Borneo island are Brunei, Malaysia & Indonesia.
Should’ve clarified! Sorry for the confusion
Currently packing for Cambodia and your post is a big help! Thank you 🙂
Chel x
http://heyitschel.com
Happy to help 🙂
Great info, and great blog, thank you!
Thank you!
Hi, I am travelling for the first time to Thailand next month and the packing lists will definitely come in handy as I know now what are the essentials I should pack. Thanks a mill!
Thank you that’s great to hear. Have fun!
Love your blog!
So my friend and I are going to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam this summer (July-August) after she graduates. We just learned it is the rainy season, but heard it only rains for 30-90 minutes a day until later in the season.
What additions would you recommend packing for the rainy weather?
Thanks Jill! The most important thing is that your clothing dries quickly but other than that rainy season varies per location. In Thailand for example, the East Coast of the peninsula is dry during this time as opposed to the west coast. This packing video talks about how to choose fabrics for travel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lR5KpPikRM Avoid cotton!
Thank you for all the helpful tips. It would be even better to be able to to see all your other blogs in one place so these Amazing posts would become more visible. It’s so great that I came across your blog on Pinterest.
Hi Irene, Thanks! I’m glad you’re finding the site useful. 🙂
This is Awesome! So lucky I found this site before my Cambodia- Thailand trip that will start this weekend. Thank you 🙂
That’s awesome Lyn. Have a great time!
Great tips – thanks for sharing! I’m heading to South East Asia in February, already starting my packing list 😉
That’s great! You’ll love it here 🙂
Me to! Doing all of March and April. CAN’T WAIT! :o)
Awesome post, I’m heading to Thailand myself over Christmas, haven’t been there for eight years and Im so so very excited and lots of useful tips. One small point on shopping upon arrival though- I used that strategy last time I went but found I rather difficult – I’m 5′ 8″ and although that’s normal in western Europe, it’s not in SEA so I ended up having to do most of my shopping at top shop and Zara.
Good point Lia. Thanks for bringing it up! I hope you have a wonderful time on your visit 🙂
Same for me Lia, I’m nearly 6ft tall and slim and its very difficult to find clothes to fit properly, especially with a 36″ inside leg! I did, however, get an absolutely fantastic fully lined (and padded in the chest area!!) Grecian style maxi dress custom made in Hoi An, Vietnam for about £25 / $38US.
I’m heading to Northern Thailand, Laos, Indonesia & Philippines for 3 months in mid-March, if anyone has any tips about what to do and where to go it’d be much appreciated. I’m pretty much set on my packing but would like a couple of pieces custom made so again if anyone knows of any good tailors in any of the places I’ll be please let me know 🙂 thanks.
Alex – great article, very helpful 🙂
Thanks Michelle! I’ll post your question for travel tips on Facebook. Have a wonderful trip!
Hi, Im off to south east Asia leaving on the 28th December working my way through Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and finishing trip in Delhi and finding it difficult deciding what to pack…i want to travel light but still stylish! Ps your site is amazing has helped me alot x x x
That’s awesome, thanks! you’ll have a blast 🙂
I need help!!! I am going to Qatar about a month. Departure at the end of May. Please help me what to wear!!! It is HOT!!!
Please suggest me what to pack!!!
Thanks!!!
Hi Laura
I haven’t been to Qatar so I’ll post your question on the Facebook Page to get more feedback 🙂 Thanks for reading!
This is a great and nice blog.
Thank you
Thanks for reading Jana!
I can’t wait to go now!!! thanks for this timely post!!
glad I could help 🙂