Pack for Teaching in Thailand: Teachers Checklist 2025 Guide — KET
Picture this:
You land in Thailand with a Kids English Thailand (KET) contract, ready to inspire eager students. Your visa is secured, your degree is legalized, and you have all the travel documents required for entering a new country, but a poorly planned packing list could throw your teaching English adventure off track.
Make sure to prepare for Thailand’s unique climate and environment by packing accordingly. Your laptop becomes your lifeline in Thai schools, where technology is often unpredictable. From Bangkok’s humid heat to northern chills at 2°C, and customs like today’s yellow shirts, this KET-approved pack for teaching in Thailand ensures you’re set.
Here’s a checklist of essential items you’ll need to bring for teaching English in Thailand.
Let’s pack smart for your trip to Thailand!
Why Packing Smart is a Game-Changer for KET Teachers
Thailand’s climate is a whirlwind of hot weather, with temperatures reaching 35°C, rainy season downpours, and cool season drops to as low as 2°C in the north.
Schools enforce strict dress codes, making packing clothes a priority. Forgetting your laptop disrupts lesson prep, a common challenge in Thai schools.
KET’s Departure Guide highlights these essentials. If there’s one thing teachers wish they had brought more of, it’s lightweight, professional clothing suitable for both the heat and school requirements.
This Thailand packing list streamlines essentials, helping you teach English effectively without overloading your luggage.
Pre-Trip Planning: Your Thailand Trip Foundation
A successful pack for teaching in Thailand starts with preparation. Budget $1,500 after flights for a single person. Here’s how to make the most of your journey: Consider bringing a few items from home to enhance comfort and familiarity during your transition.
Budgeting and Finances
Main Budget: After paying for your flight to Thailand, you should have 1,500 USD available to you.
Daily Costs: $20–30 covers food, transport, and essentials. Rural areas like Sukhothai stretch your cash further than bustling Bangkok. Check Numbeo for updated cost insights.
Emergency Cash: Set aside $200–300 for unexpected clinic visits or spontaneous boat trips.
Travel Insurance: Vital for Cancellations, Lost Bags, or Food Poisoning. Compare plans on World Nomads or Genki.
Bank Prep: Alert your bank to avoid freezes. Revolut or Wise saves on Thai baht exchange fees—learn more at Wise.
Thai Baht: Withdraw 1,000–2,000 baht ($30–60) at airport ATMs for better rates.
Planning ensures your Thailand packing list supports a smooth transition.
Understanding Thailand's Tropical Climate and Culture
Thailand’s climate shifts through three seasons:
Hot Weather (March–May): 35°C and steamy—pack breathable clothing.
Rainy Season (June–October): Wet and wild—include a rain jacket.
Cool Season (November–February): 2°C north, 17°C in Bangkok—add layers.
Thai culture emphasizes modest attire, covering the shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples. Respecting Thai culture influences your clothing choices, striking a balance between practicality and tradition.
When teaching, your style should strike a balance between comfort, professionalism, and local expectations, ensuring you make a positive impression while adapting to Thai fashion norms.
Discover more about Thai customs on The KET Culture Guide.
Destination Guide: Your First Glimpse of Thailand
Arriving in Thailand marks the beginning of an unforgettable adventure, one that combines vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and the rewarding challenge of teaching English. As you step off the plane, the energy of the country greets you: from the bustling streets of Chiang Mai to the tranquil temples and lively markets, every corner offers something new to discover. Packing smart is your first step to thriving in this new environment.
Ensure your packing list includes comfortable clothing items that adhere to the Thai schools’ dress code. Consider closed-toe shoes, modest tops, and lightweight fabrics to stay cool in the hot weather.
Don’t forget a rain jacket and flip-flops for sudden downpours or weekend trips to the beach. A few essential tech tools, like your laptop and a portable charger, will keep you prepared for any classroom or travel scenario.
Explore interesting facts about Thailand.
Thai culture places utmost importance on respect and tradition. Simple gestures, such as wearing yellow shirts on Mondays or removing your shoes before entering homes and temples, show your appreciation for local customs. When you meet your colleagues for the first time, consider bringing a small gift from your home country as a gesture of welcome.
Children’s books, a bottle of maple syrup, or even a few family photos can spark curiosity and build instant connections. As you settle into your new environment, keep your essential documents, including your passport, visa, and travel documents, easily accessible.
It’s wise to carry a printed copy of these documents and leave another with a family member back home, just in case. While you can find most clothing and shoes in larger cities, it’s harder to find larger sizes in small towns, so pack accordingly.
Comfortable shoes are a must for long bus rides and exploring new cities.
Preparation is key: research the cost of living, budget for daily expenses such as food and transportation, and exchange some cash for Thai baht before you arrive.
Having a bit of local currency on hand makes your first days smoother, whether you’re grabbing street food or hopping into a tuk-tuk.
Above all, embrace the adventure. Try new foods (don’t miss the chocolate and coffee!), take plenty of photos, and share your experiences with friends and family back home.
Teaching English in Thailand is more than a job; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, make lifelong memories, and inspire your students. So pack your bags, double-check your packing list, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime.
Classroom Essentials: Your Laptop Leads the Way
Thai schools vary widely; some offer tech, others rely on basics. As a teacher, being prepared with the right supplies is essential for creating a positive classroom environment and engaging your students. Build your packing list around:
Laptop: A 13-inch model (8GB RAM) for teaching English, lesson plans, and Wi-Fi. Preload Google Classroom for KET’s Sukhothai training. Bring a charger. Check Google Classroom for setup tips.
Notebook & Pens: Essential backup during power cuts.
Whiteboard Markers: Pack 5–10 (black, blue, red) or grab them at 7-11.
English Games: Flashcards or Bananagrams keep kids engaged. Find resources at ESL Games.
Packing Cubes: Organize cables and markers for efficiency.
Tip: A laptop is essential for teaching in Thailand.
Clothing and Sun Protection: Climate Meets Culture
When preparing to teach in Thailand, it’s essential to build a versatile wardrobe that meets both the local climate and the cultural expectations of professional attire.
Clothing Essentials
Men: 5–6 long-sleeve shirts (choose shirts of the same type for easy mixing and matching), 3–5 trousers (consider bringing trousers of the same kind for practicality), two ties, belt, dress socks, closed-toe shoes.
Women: 5 knee-length skirts (packing skirts of the same type makes outfit planning easier), 4–6 blouses (with covered shoulders and chest), two modest dresses, and closed-toe flats.
Rainy Season (June–October): Waterproof shoes and a rain jacket are must-haves.
Cool Season (November–February): A light sweater counters northern chills.
Thai Culture: Embrace the ‘Color of the Week’ tradition. Buy T-shirts locally (100 baht/~$3).
Friday Traditional Thai: Sin skirts or chut thai from Chiang Mai markets (200–500 baht/$6–15).
Flip-Flops: Ideal for temples or beach trips in Koh Samui.
Hack: A sarong serves as a cover-up, temple fix, or towel.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Extra for sunburn, non-whitening if needed. Wide-Brimmed Hat: Shields from humid weather.
Sunglasses: UV protection for long teaching days.
Personal Must-Haves: Everyday Comfort
Enhance your Thailand trip with:
Reusable Water Bottle: Refill at 1 baht stations (note that the taps are not safe). See Water Safety Tips.
Power Adapter: 220V, Type A/B/C keeps tech alive. Check World Power Plugs.
Mosquito Repellent: DEET-based to combat dengue. Learn more at CDC Travel Health.
Waterproof Phone Case: Protects against rain and allows for quick and easy photo snapping.
Prescription Medications: 3-month supply with copies.
Quick-Dry Towel: Ideal for showers or swims.
Remember to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs or to make your living space comfortable during your stay. These items ensure comfort while teaching English in Thailand.
Health and Safety: Stay Ahead of Risks
Vaccinations and Medications
Doctor Check: 6–8 weeks before, get Hepatitis A, B, typhoid, and rabies (CDC-recommended). Visit CDC Travel Vaccines.
Mosquito Defense: DEET, long sleeves, and nets in rural areas.
Emergency Kit
First Aid: Bandages, antiseptics, ibuprofen.
Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses.
Documents: Your Entry Pass
Stay legal with:
Passport Copies: 2–3 scans, split up.
Degree & Legalized Copy: Required for KET work permits. Learn about legalization at the Thai Embassy.
Visa Docs: Non-B or 60-day exemption (KET handles Laos run). Check Thai Visa Info.
Passport Photos: 4–6 (3.5x4.5 cm).
Visa Tip: Book a cancellable AirAsia flight or bus ticket for onward proof. Book with AirAsia.
Make sure you have all these documents packed and ready before entering Thailand to avoid any issues at the border.
Choosing the Right Luggage
Select bags for your packing list:
Carry-on Luggage: Thai Airways (7kg, 22”x14”x9”). Check Thai Airways Baggage.
Backpack: Durable with comfy straps for teaching trips.
Suitcase: Lockable for more extended stays.
Day Bag: Tote or dry bag for street food or boat rides.
Respecting Thai Culture
Modest Attire: Cover shoulders and knees; use sarongs at temples.
Shoes Off: Remove at all homes and sacred spots.
Right Hand: Using it to give when the left is occupied is considered rude.
Optional Extras for Your Packing List
Thai Phrasebook: Offline “sawasdee” builds rapport. Get one at Lonely Planet Shop.
School Gift: Thoughtful gifts from your home country, such as a hometown snack, can delight KET principals and foster intercultural exchange. A well-chosen gift is something the school makes note of, helping to create a positive impression and build rapport with the school.
Travel Pillow: Eases long flights or naps.
School Clothes: Females must have skirts or dresses that are knee-length and blouses or polo tops with collars. Male trousers and shirts or polo tops with collars. Closed-toe shoes for everyone.
Skip These: Travel Light
Hiking Boots: Flip-flops or shoes suffice.
Heavy Coats: Layers handle 2°C.
T-Shirts Galore: Buy locally (laundry is cheap).
TM6 Digital Arrival Card
TM6 Note: Thailand Digital Arrival Card starts May 1, 2025—check our latest article explaining the new digital TM6 the TDAC.
Final Thoughts
We hope this post has inspired and empowered you on your teaching journey in Thailand!
Kids English Thailand supports you with tips, insights, and resources to make your experience unforgettable.
Would you like to dive deeper or have questions?
Check out our related posts below, or connect with our community of educators making a difference in Thailand.
Let’s keep thriving together!
Ready to teach English in Thailand? Kids English Thailand (KET), your top teacher agency Thailand since 2009, makes it easy with guaranteed job placements for 100 teachers annually across vibrant schools. Our $400 one-week Sukhothai orientation includes comfortable accommodation, hands-on teaching practice, and cultural immersion in traditions like Songkran. Whether you have a bachelor’s degree for government schools or credentials plus a TEFL for international roles, KET supports your journey.