Asia Packing List

Universal Principles

Pack light: Asia’s laundry is excellent and cheap. You don’t need 2 weeks of clothes.

Layer over bulk: A light layer for air conditioning is more useful than a heavy jacket (except Japan in winter).

Respect the culture: One temple-appropriate outfit saves renting sarongs repeatedly.

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Southeast Asia (Thailand, Bali, Vietnam) — Hot and Humid 28–35°C

• Lightweight t-shirts × 5–6
• Shorts × 3
• Light trousers × 1–2 (temples, evenings)
• Swimwear × 2–3
• Sarong (temple cover, beach towel, pillow)
• Flip flops (primary footwear)
• Comfortable walking sandals

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East Asia (Japan, South Korea) — Temperate Seasons

Spring/Autumn: T-shirts + light sweater + jacket. Slip-on shoes for Japan.

Winter: Warm coat, thermal layers, scarf, gloves, warm walking boots.

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Health Essentials

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (tropical Asia sun is intense)
• DEET insect repellent (dengue risk in SE Asia)
• Electrolyte packets and anti-diarrhea tablets
• Prescription medications + extra supply

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Electronics

• Universal power adapter
• Portable power bank (essential for long days)
• Waterproof phone case (beaches, rain, waterfalls)

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eSIM vs Physical SIM

For multi-country trips, an eSIM (Airalo, Saily) provides data across multiple countries without swapping cards.

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