Intro Travel Review: Thailand (A must-do for any traveler)

I went on the Intro Travel 18-Day Thailand trip and this is my experience! Here is what to expect, everything that I wanted to know before the trip, I’ve written here. I am not affiliated with Intro Travel and these are my honest opinions.

Not sure how to get Data internationally? Check out the 7 Top Essentials you NEED when traveling abroad↗

What is Intro Travel?

• Intro Travel↗ is an Australian company that hosts group backpacking experiences worldwide. With tours from Thailand, Africa, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Japan, etc. there is really something for everyone. They partner with locals to give you the most immersive experience possible. Every trip is thoroughly thought out in terms of where you stay, activities, and where to get the best food 🙂 It’s an experience that I am so grateful to have had. Having Intro Travel plan my trip was one of the best decisions I ever made. Traveling abroad can be scary, especially if you haven’t done it before. But if you’re thinking about it, just do it. How on earth could you regret this?

• Solo travel can be overwhelming but booking your trip through a company will melt away all the worries about where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and oh yeah… who to do it with!! Let’s be real, it’s hard to try to please the entire friend group while booking a trip. So let’s not waste time and start living for you. On the trip, there will a ton of free time. Choose activities that YOU happy, and I promise you’ll meet someone who wants to do it too. I had 23 people in my group from all around the world. I met individuals from England, Scotland, Australia, The Netherlands, etc. that I would’ve never had the pleasure of meeting otherwise.

Group Leaders:

• Every group will be assigned a group leader, a fellow traveler that will be by your side to help make your trip amazing! So yes, a tour guide. But there is a reason they are called “group leaders.” Think of them as the Mom or Dad of the friend group. A responsible member of the group that gets you back safe! Don’t think of them as “in charge.” You are all still adults here and it is your trip. But honestly, they and went WAY beyond their job standards.

• My group leaders were a shoulder to cry on, a dance partner, the person with all the answers, and most importantly, someone who wants everyone to have the BEST TIME! My group leaders MADE my experience. They know exactly how you are feeling, most of them decided to be a leader after going on a trip of their own.

• So just ask. Ask for anything you need or want:) That is why they are here. To give you the safest and most memorable experience. They try to be super accommodating for everyone so if you would like to switch roommates, feeling ill, or having an issue just tell them. I PROMISE they have heard it all before! This is YOUR trip, don’t forget that!

Shout out to @Dan and @Josh my group leaders who I adore, you made it all so special. My best friend, Shannon, went on this trip a few months after me and LOVED her group leaders @niallcow and @jeremykelvin. We went on the same trip just a different time and we BOTH had the most amazing time. Each group member brings something unique and special to the group’s experience. Thanks looking out for us for making our trips the best!

Group Members:

• This is the coolest part of the trip. You get to meet SO many people and you’ll share these memories with them forever. It’s a little nerve racking at first, I’m not going to lie. I went by myself which I recommend to everyone. Solo travel helps you grow in ways you can’t even imagine. Our group got along so well, and we became close super fast. I was one out of 3 Americans, and one didn’t hang out with the group at all. I loved them all so much, but sometimes I felt disconnected from the group. Most of them were from the UK and conversation would evolve around things from back home. I don’t watch football, I’ve never been to that bar in Soho, and no I don’t know anything about English politics. But honestly, I know everyone felt like that at times. It will happen.
• I loved the fact that I was exposed to so many different cultures at once. I got to meet people that share the same values, beliefs, and views of the world. Despite our differences, we still found something to chat about with everyone. The group got quite close and to be honest, the pain I felt from the goodbyes was something I never expected. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to actually visit my group members and see their home towns they told be about. But It’s hard to watch little reunions and relationships continue to grow when you know there is just no way you can be a part of it. But I wouldn’t change my experience for anything.

What to expect when you arrive:

• When you arrive at the airport, your group leader or a member of a local transportation company partnered with Intro Travel will pick you up from the airport. They will have a sign with your name on it. Let them take a picture OF you AND with you before riding with them. They will bring you to the hotel and you’ll meet your group leader there if they didn’t pick you up.

• After that, expect 18 days of total chaos, freedom, adventure, and memories that make you feel alive way after your trip. Intro Travel emphasizes meeting new people so expect to spend a lot of time with your group! My group had 23 individuals and though there were little mishaps along the way, these people become like family. Especially when experiencing language barriers and culture shock, you’ll find yourself leaning on each other a lot. What I love about Intro is that they don’t emphasize one thing. It is the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and eye-opening experiences as you emerge into the culture.

Food adjustment

Though the food here is absolutely incredible, it took about a week for my stomach to be fully adjusted. I never got very ill, but my belly would ache and I felt nauseous at times. Only drink and brush your teeth with bottled water. Ice cubes are regulated so those are fine. There are tons of pharmacies here with Pepto Bismol or similar medicines. They will have everything you need.

Partying

• There are a LOT of night outs, beach parties, and clubs that you will attend. The clubs were insane, and we all had the best time every night. The have karaoke bars, Muay Thai fighting bars, and the best dance floors. Now of course you don’t have to go out every night. You can opt out and spend nights in to have a night to yourself, but keep in mind this is a HUGE part of this trip. I also went to Vietnam with Intro and though there were few a few night outs, there were not nearly as much in Thailand.

• Nights out here are wild. You will be dancing, drinking, and running all over. BRING A BUM BAG OR FANNY PACK. Don’t bring a purse, gosh please don’t bring a purse. You will leave it or it might get stolen. Just strap the bum bag around your waist and you won’t have to worry.

Getting around

It is A LOT of traveling. I swear, some destinations we traveled van, ferry, bus, then van, ferry, bus to get there. You might even run into ladyboys:) There are lots of places to stop for snacks before you travel and some during your travels (for example, Thailand is flooded with 7/11‘s, they’re everywhere. Make sure you get a cheese toasty, they’re delicious!) If you are a picky eater, make sure you pack food before travel days since options can be limited. The travel days were long, hot, and an actual mess. Try to be on time for everything and make it easy on your group leaders. They run around like chickens with their heads cut off, trying to account for everyone.

7/11

7/11‘s are all over Thailand and will be your new best friend. Try to shop locally when you can, especially for fruits and vegetables. But for medications, toiletries, alcohol, and snacks galore, come here. They have a great selection of food including sushi wraps, noodles, and cheese toasties. These were a HUGE hit on the trip, gosh we lived off of those. Super delicious. They will toast them in a oven to order so they are always hot. There is actually a ton of hot food you can prepare there. They have microwaves accessible to heat up water or cold/frozen items. A great way to try the local snacks such as shrimp chips, seaweed crips, and candy!

Accommodations:

• You can pay extra for private accommodations if you prefer not to share a room, but I highly recommend it! Meeting new people is all a part of the experience. Some of my favorite nights were the ones where I stayed up laughing, sharing stories, and connecting with people who were merely strangers days prior.

• You will be bouncing all around Thailand during this trip with the longest stay in one location being four days. Some locations housed two to a room, some four. The stays in South East Asia are SO NICE. Especially in the cities. Seriously, the luxury.

Electricity for your room, will be accessible by your room key. There will be a card slot where the light is switch. This needs to stay in at all times for the power to remain on. If it is an incredibly hot day, leave a key in the slot and share the room key with your roommate.

The walls in the hotels are also SUPER thin. You can hear just about everything going on around you so bring earplugs if you have a hard time sleeping.

There will be a few nights that are not as boujee as the cities. You’re schedule might be a little messed up by sleeping in an overnight train, floating bungalow, and even the jungle, but it’s an experience to say the least.

Bathroom Situation

Okay, all the bathrooms don’t look like this, and they are very nice in your hotels. Above are toilets that you will encounter while traveling on the road, on the train, and at Khao Sok National Park.

• Toilet Paper shall NEVER be flushed. The pipes are too small to handle it and your toilet will get clogged!
• BUM GUNS– these will be your best friend. Toilets come with a water spray gun to get extra clean. Some toilets ONLY have this so bring wet wipes to dry off or use instead.
• You will encounter toilets that have a big bucket of water next to them. Some buckets are so big you can fit your entire body in them, and it looks like a bath but it is NOT!- You use it to pour extra water down the toilet to help it flush. Toilets will automatically flush when enough water is poured in. The plumbing is not the best here to be prepared for some weird restroom breaks:) (and yes, someone did hop in the toilet tub)
• Some bathrooms don’t have toilets! Yup. I’m talking a big hole in the ground. Pop a squat and seriously… bring baby wipes!

Shower Tips

Showers are similar to those in the UK, but very different that the U.S. Expect their to be have water heater that needs to be turned on separately from the water every time you shower. It’s also very important to turn this off when you’re done!

Highlights of the Itinerary

Bangkok

Bangkok is such a unique city. There is such a vibrant, crazy nightlife. It feels like the entire city is up all night partying with you. During the day, things settle down a bit and is home to incredible temples there for you to explore. Khaosan Road specifically is where all the action happens. It is extremely crowded; there scorpions on a stick, liquor buckets (yes liquor in buckets), and balloons all over. Something you don’t want to miss!

Be Careful!

When you are out in clubs and especially Khoasan Road, you might be wondering what are these balloons everyone has. Happy Balloons, or nitrous oxide, are extremely popular here. Depending on where you are from, you may know them as whippets or laughing gas. It’s all the same, and they are just as dangerous. Have fun, but don’t push your limits. You don’t actually know what’s in these balloons. I saw people pass out, loose use of their legs momentarily, and have seizures. The doctor visits aren’t like home, so just be careful!

Tuk-Tuk Rides

You can’t go to Thailand without riding a tuk-tuk. Yes, it is a little touristy but super fun. You’ll be riding alongside each other along the streets of Bangkok. Tuk-Tuks don’t have windows or seat belts and sometimes you are flying down the road, it kind of feels like your in a game of real life Mario Cart. The traffic is crazy here. Organized chaos. Scooters are everywhere and move like school’s of fish following each others every move. But I’m not going to lie, coming home in these after a night out… I thought I was going to die. Just fly right out! Fortunately I never did.

Cooking Class

I loved that they included this on the itinerary. Exploring a country’s food is one of my favorite things, but to be able to make it yourself gives you an entirely new appreciation for the culture. The ingredients are prepped for you but you get to make the dishes yourself. We cooked were Pad Thai, Massaman Curry, and Tom Yam soup. They were all SO DELICIOUS. Better yet, they give you a cook book to take home. We had a cooking competition, got dressed up and danced to a traditional song. Such a good day!

Overnight Train

Okay, I absolutely LOVED this but it’s not pretty…. a unique experience, to say the least. For about 12 hours, you’ll be on this sleeper train going from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park.

Just you and your group in a tight-knit train with nothing to do but talk to each other. This is where the bonding starts to happen. Definitely download some movies, the WI-FI won’t be the best. But we did watch almost an entire season of Love Island UK so maybe you’ll be lucky.

Pick the Bottom Bunk

You will get either a top or a bottom bunk. Try to get a bottom bunk. They don’t turn off the lights ever. And the main lights shine directly in your eyes on the top bunk. The bottom is bigger and darker so try to snag one.

The bathrooms are horrific. Haha no seriously. They aren’t very clean and smell….. bad. Really bad. There will be one with a toilet and one without. I honestly suggest trying the bathroom with no toilet. It is easier to not touch the toilet seat when there isn’t one. Just try not to pee on your shoes. It happens.

Bring Snacks

I suggest bringing tons of snacks, a few beers, and a deck of cards. I also brought snacks from the U.S. It was amazing to watch everyone’s reaction to foods that are your favorite back home. Sharing snacks is a great way to tell stories from home!

Khao Sok National Park

Gorgeous. ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS. This will blow your mind. You’ll have to travel by boat, and just when you think it can’t get any better, it does. The limestone mountains are just insane. You’ll be sleeping in a floating bungalow and the accommodation is minimal, to say the least. It consists of a room with glass sliding doors, a mattress on the ground, and a tv. The A/C doesn’t work until the evening but you won’t notice. Oh, and no Wi-Fi. The perfect oasis for a digital detox. Just great food from an onsite restaurant, games, and laughs. You’ll be able to kayak, or just swim all day long.

Ko Pha Ngan

This little island is home to the Intro Travel Hub, Sarana Bungalows↗ This is where the group leaders live! It’s a nice place for them to come home to however, anyone can rent a room here. While you’re there, you’ll meet their amazing staff, enjoy the beach and pool, satisfy your hunger, and meet new people!

They have an awesome pool right on the beach with free paddle boarding. This is your time to relax, so take advantage of it. This is where your massage will happen… right on the beach. I got the Thai massage and it was low-key painful. They really try to pop bones in that session. It was funny but I didn’t feel relaxed. If you want a nice massage, get the oil massage.

Sarana also has pets of their own! There are cats and dogs ALL OVER Thailand. You are advised NOT to touch them, but the animals at Sarana have been vaccinated. They are safe to pet. The second photo introduces you to Dave, he lost his nose in a fight but he is as cute as can be, a real star around here.

Full Moon Party

Ko Pha Ngan is also home to the Full Moon Party! Try to coordinate the dates of the party with your trip if you can. There is also a half-moon party, which is essentially the same event. If you are there when the party is going on, you’re going! This is something you don’t want to miss. It’s a crazy party on the beach where everyone is covered in nothing but neon paint and glitter.

There’s a sick DJ that plays the best music so be ready to dance. There is flame throwing and SO MANY people to enjoy the night with. 10-30,000 people come from all over the world every month for this! Hands down BEST party I have ever been to. You will get a bracelet that allows VIP access to the upstairs bar with bathrooms and a balcony that overlooks the party. Something you can’t get without Intro!

If you aren’t there for the Full Moon Party, don’t worry, Intro throws a full moon beach party of their own. You’ll have body paint, fire dancers, music and cheap buckets on the beach.

Muay Thai Class

On Ko Pha-ngan, you’ll get the option to take a yoga class or a Muay Thai class, definitely choose Muay Thai. You’ll get to train with the two-time feather-weight champion, Suchin (Chinnarach) Kanjanasuwan. He owns and runs the oldest boxing gym on Ko Pha-ngan Chinnarach Muay Thai↗ You’ll get to meet other champions and fighters who will show you the basics. Then you’ll go after the punching bag and work on your kicking one on one. They might let you get in the ring and take a few swings:) If not, there is a Muay Thai Bar in Phi Phi where you can watch people fight each other. But be careful, we encountered a girl on another intro trip who was PISSED with a sprained ankle. Don’t be her. Keep your eyes straight and duck when you can 🙂

Phi-Phi Islands

I can confidently say that Phi-Phi was a lot of people’s favorite spot, and you can see why. It’s such a fun little island where there are no cars. The roads are essentially side-walks. You walk everywhere, it’s incredibly relaxed. The accommodation has a root top pool one of the more comfier beds you will sleep in. You also get a lot of free time here so take some time for yourself to explore. It’s a great place for souvenirs and elephant pants!, Try to walk in-land and get a peak at the locals and what their daily life looks like.

Phi-Phi Island Hopping

When you’re at the Phi-Phi islands, one of those days will be boat day where you’ll stop at the most famous beaches. It was one of the best days on the trip. Well okay, if you don’t like boats-this day sucks. There were people puking in the ocean and let me tell ya, seasickness is not pretty. So if this is you, bring a motion sickness tablet. Don’t miss out because your stomach can’t hang.

I don’t remember every beach that we went to but Maya Bay is the most famous. If you’re familiar with Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The Beach, this is it! It is very well maintained and protected which means, you can’t swim here. You can barely make it past your knees before you get yelled at on the loud speaker. The other beaches are less busy and more chill.

Tips:

Bring a bag on the trip for a towel, money, SUNSCREEN, a change of clothes, WATER, and SNACKS. Our included meal for that day was just a sandwich and it was not enough. Everyone was starving so bring extra water and food. Sunscreen is also a must, you will be in the sun the entire day and burn before you know it. Bring a speaker as well! My friend had music on the boat but we didn’t. So pack one just in case, you’ll want some tunes as you watch the sunset together:)

Phuket

If you thought Bangkok was wild, you haven’t seen anything yet. Phuket is crazy. I don’t even know how to describe it. Everything goes here. Drugs, stripping, it’s all here. And watch out for the ping-pong show. Now, this is definitely NOT apart of the trip, but if you have ever heard of a ping-pong show and are curious, this is where to go. There were about 10 of us that went out in Phuket, and it was absolutely insane. I can’t really write down what the show entails, just think The Hangover x 1,000. If you are more modest, Phuket really isn’t the place for you. But if you’re up for an adventure, walk in with an open mind and you might be surprised just how much you can enjoy this crazy city.

Chiang Mai

I think Chiang Mai was my favorite place, if we were talking in terms of living not vacationing. Chiang Mai is such a well put together, organized, and GREEN city. The city is covered with vines, flowers, trees, plants etc. It’s gorgeous. Really take Chiang Mai in. It’s your last stop with these people and the last few days go by fast. There are so many exiting activities in Chiang Mai it is easy to get caught up, don’t forget to enjoy the people as well! My favorite food in Chiang Mai was Khao Soi. It’s the most famous soup in Chiang Mai so be sure to get some!

Chiang Mai Night Markets

Depending on which day you arrive in Chiang Mai, there are night markets that are open one night a week that you might get to go to. I went to the Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street market that is only open on Sundays. Chiang Mai is the best place to get great souvenirs and it is the cheapest place. I bought a beautiful large painting for $2. There are so many trinkets and food, it is so cheap you really can’t go wrong. Try everything and get your last minute shopping here.

Jungle Trek

• I was so excited about this and you should be too. It’s such a different and unique experience that not many people can say they have done! A local tribe brings Intro Travel groups into the Thailand Jungle to hike mountains, visit villages and temples, and spend the night with the sounds of water falls in the background. The hike is long, like really long. And it’s hot. So bring tons of water and dress light. But ladies, don’t forget to pack something to cover up because you’ll be visiting the Wat Pha Lat temple. Something so beautiful and yet so secluded, tucked away ready to be explored. Lan was our local guide for those two days, and he was hilarious. He was so happy we were there, answered any questions that we had, and enlightened us of their culture in the most fun way. He is just silly but so knowledgable, I really hope he is there when you are!

• You’ll be sleeping deep in the jungle in hut. A shack perhaps. There are no doors, no floor, and definitely no A/C. You are basically sleeping on pad over plywood with a giant canopy to protect you from bugs. Not the nicest but again, the experience is incredible. The bathrooms surprisingly has running water.. in the jungle. With a working toilet and shower! The weather is extremely nice, and chilly at night. After you swim in the Mae Wang waterfall, expect to have an incredible meal cooked for you and campfire vibes.

• There are coolers with beer and soda they let you purchase but no liquor. So bring some if you’d like! It’s the perfect night to sit around the campfire, drinking and telling stories. Seriously some of the best memories came from this trek. People get silly and delusional after the long day of hiking, at this point you are all so comfortable with each other it’s nice to just be with the group and gaze at the stars.

Elephant Sanctuary

BEST EXPERIENCE EVER. This is an actual dream come true. I never thought I would be able to have an encounter like this one. You get to SWIM with elephants! Right there with them, you’ll be able to rub mud on their backs and splash around. It’s honestly incredible, to be so close to an animal so large. The sanctuary I went to was Into The Wild Elephant Camp ↗ . You can really tell they care for the elephants here, during the introductions, the elephants would stick it’s trunk by the owners to get attention.

At first, you’ll get to feed them bananas and observe them in their natural habitat. Then it’s time to bathe. Our group ended up having a mud fight as we cooled the elephants down. It’s about an hour experience but I don’t think any amount of time would be long enough. Bring an extra set of clothes when you go! You’ll be taking a communal shower in your bathing suits with the group afterwards. Not the cleanest, but super funny.

Intro Travel Included Meals

The 18-Day tour comes with 7 Breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 4 dinners. Most of the places we went were great, but there were some restaurants that we went to where the entire group wasn’t impressed. Most of those were americanized restaurants, not local food. And those restaurants can be good too, just not those. I think it was our 4th restaurant where we asked our guide to let us pick the restaurant. The included meals were also limited in selection. With that being said, we still had amazing food everyday.

FAQ

Why would you go by yourself?

Though this may not be everyone’s preferred way of travel, everybody needs to take a solo trip in their lifetime. Especially in your younger year, if possible. Life is flying by, I don’t want to wake up one day too old, too tired, or worse die before I get the chance. Money comes and goes, but an experience like this will stay with you forever. It will get you through the rough days when you aren’t traveling, the memories alone will bring a smile to your face. Don’t wait around for someone to do it with you. Traveling alone allows you to break free from any idea someone has of you and discover parts of yourself you didn’t know existed.You can react how you want to, take a turn and look around, or say no and stay in for the night. The decisions are all yours.

What was it like traveling alone as a female?

I felt incredibly safe in Thailand and with Intro Travel. The group leaders were so thorough, I never felt unsure of anything. I was lucky enough to have a group that I trusted and you probably will too. There are times I would say to put down the liquor and really pay attention. Such as the full-moon party, or any clubs. There will be a lot of people the places you visit and most of them aren’t Intro employees. The leaders look out for you but don’t forget to look out for yourself, you are the best line of defense! My group was very good at keeping an eye out for each other but I can’t say the same for all groups.

Is a visa required to enter Thailand?

No, currently there are no visa requirements for U.S. citizens to enter the country. Free entry for 30 days. Be sure to do your own research on this when you are planning on going.

How much money did you spend?

• Intro travel includes transportation and some meals in the cost of the trip. The most money I spent when I was there was on alcohol. There are a LOT of parties on this trip and ton of alcohol but it isn’t that expensive. Though I spent the most money there, I would’ve spent a lot more anywhere else. Drinks are typically around $2-3. Honestly, you’ll find happy hours and deals everywhere. And if you want to take a cheaper route, grab a bottle from a 7/11 and pre-game.

• Food is incredibly cheap here. Well, everything pretty much is. Meals can range anywhere from .50 cents to $6. $2/3 on average. Insane!

• I spent about $400 dollars during the 18 days. This includes food, alcohol, and souvenirs, and airport meals as well.

How do I take money out?

I recommend bringing cash if you can and exchanging it when you get there. You can use your credit card most places but you will need cash. To escape high airport exchange fees, the first hotel in Bangkok has a money exchange place right next to it. Its a yellow booth with real people in it.

ATM

If you are using an ATM, only use the blue ones. DON’T use the purple ones. My friend’s card was eaten by a purple one, don’t be like him.

What kind of luggage should I bring?

• Intro Travel wants to emulate a genuine backpacking experience, so regardless of which bag you choose, pack light. You will have to lug all of your stuff to every destination. So make sure you can carry everything because you’ll be going up stairs, on boats, and long strides quite often. There are many hotels that you’ll stay in that offer laundry. It’ll cost you extra but it’s super cheap.

Backpack or Suitcase?

• I brought a giant suitcase- Don’t do that. But to save your back and have everything more organized, I recommend bringing a small-medium size heavy duty suitcase with wheels. Just make sure it is descent because you will be lugging them around a ton.

• I saw many people bring large travel backpacks instead of a suitcase. The problem I have with these are it is very hard to get anything out of them. This trip requires a lot of bouncing around destinations and it’s easy for your things to get cluttered. And when you pack, your things are just stacked one on top of the other. If you need something at the bottom, you have to take everything out to get to it. If you do opt for a backpack, make sure it opens like a suitcase!

• Definitely bring a toiletry bag. I mean of course, but you will have to bring your things away from your rooms to get ready, a lot. In Khao Sok National Park, The Jungle Trek, and overnight train all have only one bathroom. They aren’t attached to you room so you will need to bring to the communal bathroom to get ready.

Everyday Bag

• I recommend bringing a backpack for sure. Also bring a purse, or bum bag/ fanny pack. You’ll probably already have a backpack for your carry on but if you don’t definitely bring one. You will want one to access personal belongings while traveling. It is also very useful for the boat day! You’ll need to bring your own towel and water that day anyways so it’s best to have a day bag. The bum bag or purse is for going out. Bum bags/fanny packs are easier to hold onto, just clip them on your waist or over your shoulder and you don’t have to worry.

Packing Tips for the Gals!

Females need to cover up shoulders and knees when visiting the temples so a shaw or a beach cover up will work well. It doesn’t really matter what it looks like, you’ll wear it for 30 minutes your entire trip. I brought a long dress with short sleeves and just threw it on top of my clothes.

Period Products: If your cycle is anything like mine, you know how unpredictable it can be. This isn’t really the trip to be unprepared for. I used the Diva Cup and thank god. I was unfortunately on my freaking period in the Thailand jungle. And man, I would’ve been in deep trouble without this. I recommend this to all female travelers! It can stay in for 12 hours.. that’t SO NICE. And it does’t leak! I swear, get this. It’s a life saver.

Clothes:

It is extremely hot and humid in Thailand so bring lots of tank tops and shorts.

Bring what you are comfortable with, and clothes that aren’t very expensive. The hotels do laundry and though most of the time it is fine, I had a few clothes that came back faded stretched. Not a big deal, buy some clothes there, and toss the old ones.

Have outfits for hiking, swimming, clubbing, Muay Thai, and the airport. I recommend bringing one jacket for the airport and sleeper train. It’s not often, but it can get cold sometimes.

Toiletries:

Same goes for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. If you aren’t concerned with fancy products, every hotel offers free shampoo and conditioner. Take some with you on the jungle trek and Khao Sok and you’re good!

Shoes:

Flip flops– duh

Hiking sandals– you’re gonna want these. It is the most versatile shoe that you can get. I wore mine everyday. You don’t have to worry about socks, they are comfortable, and they can get wet. It rains a lot in Thailand during the rainy season. One second it’s sunshine, the next it is pouring. No way to predict it so best be safe. Plus, on the boat days you’ll want to jump off the side into the water. There are lots of sea urchins here so water shoes is a smart call.

Sneakers– I know people who wore sneakers. I didn’t. I thought it was too hot and the sandals were just fine for me. People wore them out to clubs, and more for fashion on my trip. It wouldn’t hurt but I didn’t use mine once!

Extras:

• Portable charger– this one is a no brainer when traveling in general but I found this especially handy in the jungle! Yes, what was I thinking of course there is no electricity in the jungle. And it gets pitch black so be careful.

• Head lamp- now, I don’t think this is 100% necessary but it can be incredibly useful. Again, the jungle is DARK. So if you need to go to the bathroom, having your phone light is okay, but then you have to put your phone down to use the bathroom. haha not the best situation you can imagine.

• Charging adapter– A lot of people overlook this one but it is so important! I had trouble finding these in Thailand so make sure you bring one! I recommend this one from Amazon ↗

• Waterproof phone case– this will be incredibly handy on the boat day! The water is also incredibly clear so if you get a chance, try to snap an underwater pic!

• Laundry bag -this will make your life 100 times easier. Mixing clean and dirty clothes, just ew. Especially when you’ll be sweating your butt off. Don’t mix your dirties with your clean, it’s not worth it stinkin’ up your whole bag.

• Wet bag– there will be many, many times where you are in the ocean one minute, and in the bus the next. Having a wet bag is an easy solution to not ruining your things.

• Ear plugs- The hotel walls here are SO thin. Bring these to help get some good sleep.

• Sun Screen– Some of the sunscreens in Thailand have whitening agents that lighten your skin. I couldn’t tell you which ones! So it’s best to bring your own if you want a nice tan.

Things to buy when you get there:

• Baby wipes– like I said earlier, the bathroom situation is just not it. Not everywhere of course, but some locations you have to pay for toilet paper. Some places don’t have toilet paper at all!

• Sim card– Definitely talk with your phone provider to see if you get international data. If not, a sim card is the best option. Your phone has to be unlocked, which means paid off in order to switch sim cards so again, check with your provider. Sim cards are so cheap and Thailand has some of the fastest data I’ve ever seen. You can find them in the airport and any convenient store or 7/11.

• Bug spray, soaps and lotions are all things you can buy here. But be careful when choosing face/body lotions. The beauty standards favor lighter skin, a lot of skincare products have lightening agents in them so be aware if you want a tan!

A year later, and I still think about this trip everyday. I recommend it to anyone who wants to travel. I felt safe, looked after, independent, and had the most fun I have ever had. If you’re pondering the thought of taking an experience like this, you just have to go for it. You’ll be so sad to leave, saying goodbye to people you got so close to is the absolute worst. But it shouldn’t stop you from going, it opens up many more opportunities for adventure! I have already visited people from the trip and gone on new adventure. If you’re thinking of booking your trip, definitely go with Into Travel.