I’m Tying the Knot in Thailand — These Are the 15 Items I Told My Southeast Asia First-timer Guests to Pack

Although I love where I live in Montana, I’ve always wanted a destination wedding. So, much to my 95-year-old grandmother’s chagrin, in a few months, I’ll be tying the knot at Chai Lai Orchid, an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. Most of my friends and family have never been to Southeast Asia, so they’re already starting to ask me what they should bring. Fortunately, I’ve visited Thailand every year for an 8-week sabbatical since 2016.

I may not have permanent resident status yet, but I have the whole Thailand packing list down pat. For example, even if they don’t like sandals, my guests are going to want to pack footwear that's easy to slip on and off since it’s customary to leave your shoes at the door in this country where construction workers often sport Crocs or flip-flops.

Continue reading for tips for traveling to Southeast Asia, written by Katie Jackson.

LAST UPDATED

April 15, 2025

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

Katie Jackson

Katie Jackson is a writer and media specialist based in Montana’s Big Sky Country. Living and working everywhere from New York to Nicaragua, Katie is no stranger to adventure. When she’s not traveling the world (or writing about it!) she’s busy chasing after a Leonberger named Zeus. Follow Katie’s travels on Instagram @katietalkstravel.

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

A favorite of ultralight hikers, backpackers, bikers, and travelers, the Sawyer Squeeze filter is the gold standard in water filters for anyone concerned about weight and universal compatibility.

Scott Gilbertson
Senior Writer and Reviewer

Media Mentions

In the morning before getting to the park, I applied insect repellent (Picaridin lotion by Sawyer).

Julie, Earth Trekkers
Author and Photographer

Media Mentions

A Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system that blows any other system out of the — say it with me — water.

Rachel Dunkel
Freeland Writer