What should you plan and pack for a holiday in Thailand with children?
- Lightweight long-sleeved tops. Children’s skin is sensitive to the sun. Plan protective clothing and breaks in the shade, particularly around midday.
- A warm layer, especially if you plan to visit shopping centres and indoor restaurants: air conditioning can make these places feel cool.
- A couple of books and toys, particularly for a young child. Familiar belongings can help children settle into a new place. Do not fill the whole suitcase with them: there will be plenty of new things to discover.
- A small travel health kit. Pack plasters, a bandage and medicines already recommended for your child by a doctor. Discuss the contents and how to use medicines with your paediatrician before departure, and check medicine import rules.
- Sun protection suitable for your child. Have it ready before the first outing and follow the instructions, alongside protective clothing and shade.
- A travel plan. Think ahead about places you would like to show your children, allow time to rest and avoid filling every day with transfers. This leaves less searching and rushing to do on holiday.
To help choose where to stay, read our article about Phuket beaches for a family trip.
For travel health kit preparation, see the CDC packing checklist. Check medicine rules with Thai FDA.

