What to Pack for your Holiday in Phuket

Ranked among Thailand's top travel hotpots and beach holiday destinations, Phuket is no ordinary piece of paradise. Known for its pristine beachfront environments and marine life heritage, Phuket is also a water sports lover's dream come true. Whether you are heading to the beach hub for a weekend getaway or a lengthier stay, here's a comprehensive guide on what every tourist should pack for a memorable vacation on the island.

Paperwork and Essentials

Before packing your bathing suit and sunscreen, it's important to have all of the crucial documents and travel-related paperwork safely tucked away into a waterproof container in your luggage. This not only includes any documents pertaining to travel insurance but also copies of your airline tickets and passport (including a photocopy of your Thai Visa page). Those hailing from Western nations need not worry about Thai Visa stamps as most are allowed visa-free entry for a short stay. Power adaptors are also essential for Phuket, which uses Type O and Type B/C outlets in most hotels. A day bag or a backpack will also come in handy if you intend to go hiking or embark on cultural tours.

Clothing Must-Haves

Tourists should keep in mind that Phuket is a warm, and at times, humid destination where tropical weather patterns are prevalent throughout the year. This means that the clothes you pack for the trip should be made from cotton or linen as lightweight fabrics and those made with natural fibres are more suitable for hot conditions. Summer shirts and dresses are ideal for Phuket and Thailand as a whole while t-shirts and shorts are also must-haves for a beach vacation apart from a bathing suit. If you intend to visit any temples on the island, it's crucial to pack one conservative outfit or a shawl and sarong to use as coverups. Couples who intend to dine out at Koh Yao Yai Resort or any other luxury Phuket beach resort restaurant may also want to pack a smart-casual outfit or some formal wear and heels.

Footwear

A pair of sandals will suffice for those who are planning on spending most of their days by the beach or by the pool although a pair of hiking boots or sneakers will be necessary for hikes. As temperatures are high, it's best not to bring new pairs of shoes, sneakers or sandals on a trip to Phuket as it's not a great destination for breaking in a pair.

Accessories and Sun Care

Sunscreen is another essential item for a getaway in Phuket as the risk of sunburn is quite high for those with sensitive skin. A sun hat and sunglasses can also help keep the harsh rays of the sun out of one's eyes. Although thundershowers are rare during the peak travel season in Phuket, it is prudent to pack an umbrella or a raincoat to deal with the occasional downpour. Bug spray might also be required if you intend to spend time outdoors or embark on hikes as Phuket is known for its mosquitoes and pesky bugs.

Medical Needs

Those who need to take prescription medication for chronic conditions on a daily basis should make sure they pack enough of the medicines they need for the duration of the holiday. Be sure to have the prescription on hand if you happen to run out although there's no guarantee that the medicines you need will be available in local pharmacies. As spicy food and a heavy food intake are part and parcel of a Phuket holiday, it is also wise to pack some antacids and diarrhoea pills. A few Band-Aids and antihistamines will also come in handy in case of an injury or an allergic reaction while over-the-counter flu medication might also be useful for those who are travelling with small children.