Best clothes to wear for Thailand heat
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, bracing yourself for an unforgettable adventure is a goal! You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, lively culture, and tasty food. But before you pack your bags, let’s be aware of the tropical climate. The heat can be a bit much, especially during the summer, so make sure you pack the right clothes to stay cool and comfortable.
Is Thailand weather that hot
What makes Thailand even hot is not the heat or temperature itself, but it’s the high humidity that makes you feel the heat even more. The average temperature in Thailand ranges from 18°C to 38°C (64°F to 100°F) depending on the season. The humidity hits its peak in the hot season (March to May), followed by the rainy season that lasts from May to October, with heavy rainfall but remains humid.
What to wear in Thai’s hot weather
Breathable materials
Go for lightweight and breathable fabrics to fight the heat. The best options are:
- Linen: Known for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties, linen is perfect for hot weather. It dries quickly and won’t stick to your body when you sweat.
- Cotton: Lightweight cotton blends are also a good choice. Look for thin cotton shirts and dresses that allow air circulation.
- Moisture-wicking synthetics: Look for moisture-wicking clothes to keep you cool and dry throughout the day.
Loose shirts and pants are also great choices, but if you are looking for a specific brand to wear, Uniqlo is the best choice. Uniqlo’s AIRism line is specifically designed to comfort you in hot and humid conditions, making it an excellent choice for anyone travelling to Thailand.
What not to wear in hot and humid weather
Heavy fabrics
Stay away from heavy materials like denim or thick sweatshirts, as they can trap heat and become uncomfortable in high temperatures. Also avoid jeans and polos. They do look great, but if you want to stay alive in the hot weather, don’t even think about wearing them.
Recommended clothing styles
For Men 🧑🏻
Shirts: Lightweight t-shirts or button-down collared shirts are ideal. Choose moisture-wicking options for added comfort.
Bottoms: Bermuda shorts or lightweight chinos are suitable for casual outings. For temple visits, opt for long pants made of breathable fabric.
For Women 👩🏻
Tops: Flowing blouses or tank tops with thicker straps are recommended. Avoid sheer or overly revealing tops unless layered with a cardigan.
Bottoms: Long skirts or lightweight pants are great for temple visits. Shorts should be modest in length, look for ones that cover the knee.
Dresses: Maxi dresses made from breathable materials can be both stylish and comfortable. Look for dresses that provide coverage but remain airy.
Elephant clothes
Elephant pants are a must-have in Thailand! They’re super comfy and breezy, perfect for the hot and humid weather. They come in all sorts of patterns, like elephant prints, and they’re a great way to show off your love for Thai culture. Plus, they are a great souvenir for your friends and family back home!
You can easily find them at local markets and supermarkets. They normally have good prices, so they are accessible to travellers. As they become popular, many manufacturers are expanding designs beyond the traditional designs and also improving fabric quality, like Italian silk for a more luxurious feel. Overall, elephant pants combine comfort, cultural significance, and style, making them an ideal choice for exploring Thailand.
Cultural Considerations
While comfort is key, it’s also important to respect local customs:
Modesty at temples: When visiting temples, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. A light shawl or scarf can be useful for draping over your shoulders if needed.
General dress code: Avoid overly revealing clothing such as sleeveless tops or very short shorts in public areas outside of beaches.
Footwear
Choose comfortable footwear suitable for walking:
Sandals: Opt for breathable sandals that cover your toes. Brands like Teva or Keen are stylish options that are also practical for walking long distances.
Flip-flops: These are suitable for beach days but may not be appropriate for temple visits where closed-toed shoes are preferred.
Packing the right clothes is very important for having a great time in Thailand’s hot weather. Stick to breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, and choose clothes that are modest enough for the places you’ll be visiting. And don’t forget comfortable shoes so you can walk around easily in the heat. By following these tips, you’ll stay cool and respectful of the local culture while you’re exploring.
Tips for travelling to Thailand
- Light-coloured clothing: Wear light-coloured clothing that reflects sunlight to help keep you cool.
- Loose clothing: Loose-fitting garments greatly improve comfort in hot conditions.
- Quick-drying fabrics: Ideal if you’re engaging in adventurous activities.
- Stay Hydrated: The heat can be intense; drink plenty of water and take breaks in shaded areas when needed.
- Sun protection: Wear clothing with UPF protection, along with a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from strong UV rays.
- Versatile accessories: A lightweight scarf or shawl can be useful, providing warmth, especially during cooler evenings or covering up when visiting temples.
- Insect repellent: Consider packing a natural insect repellent as mosquitoes are prevalent in Thailand.
While the sun can be harmful to your skin, make sure to protect your skin properly. Here is our sun safety guide to flawless skin in Thai heat.
