top of page
transparent logo .png

15 Family Travel Essentials We Never Travel Around Thailand Without

Whether we're heading to the beach for the day, exploring another island, or taking a weekend road trip, there are a few things that always come with us.​

​

Living in Thailand has taught us that travelling with children doesn't have to mean packing everything you own. Instead, we've found a handful of practical essentials that make every adventure a little easier, more comfortable, and a lot more enjoyable.

​

These are the items our family reaches for every single trip.

beach essentials.jpg

7. Dry Bag

5. Lightweight Microfibre Towels

3. Water Shoes

They dry quickly, fold into almost nothing, and take up very little space in your beach bag—perfect for family travel.

6. Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Hot sand, sharp coral, shells, and the occasional rocky beach make water shoes one of our must-pack items. They protect little feet both on the beach and while exploring rock pools

4. Snorkel Set

Beach Essentials

1. UV Swimwear

Thailand's tropical sun is strong all year round. Long-sleeved UV swimwear is one of the best investments you can make: it protects children's skin and reduces the need to constantly reapply sunscreen.

2. Sun Hats

A good sun hat is one of the easiest ways to protect little heads and faces from the midday sun. We prefer hats with a wide brim and a chin strap so they stay put, even on windy boat trips.

One of the best things about Thailand is the incredible marine life. Having your own well-fitting snorkel and mask means you're always ready to explore whenever you find calm, clear water.

If you're planning to visit Thailand's beautiful national parks or join a snorkeling or diving trip, reef-safe sunscreen is the responsible choice. Some marine parks discourage or restrict sunscreens that contain chemicals harmful to coral reefs, so it's always worth checking before your trip.

Whether you're travelling by longtail boat, speedboat, kayaking, or simply spending the day at the beach, a dry bag keeps phones, cameras, wallets, and spare clothes protected from water and sand.

Safety & Hygiene

8. Mini First Aid Kit

Children always seem to find adventures—and occasionally little bumps and scrapes.

​

We keep a small waterproof first aid kit with:

  • Plasters in different sizes

  • Betadine antiseptic solution

  • Sterile gauze

  • Medical tape

  • Tweezers

  • Small scissors

  • Children's pain relief (if appropriate for your family)

  • Baby wipes

  • A small bottle of vinegar for jellyfish stings

 

Using a sealed reusable food container instead of a traditional first aid bag helps keep everything dry and free from sand.

9. Wet Wipes

Perfect for sticky fingers, unexpected spills, beach picnics, or quick clean-ups when soap and water aren't nearby.

10. Hand Sanitiser

Useful before meals and after playgrounds or public places.

11. Child-Friendly Mosquito Repellent

Helps protect little ones from mosquito bites, especially around sunrise and sunset.

12. Children's Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Having a travel toothbrush and your child's favourite toothpaste packed and ready makes mornings and evenings much easier, especially after long travel days or late arrivals. It also means you don't have to spend time searching for familiar brands once you arrive.

Entertainment

13. Travel Toys

Our favourites include

​

  • Magic water colouring books,

  • Yoto Mini Player

  • Reusable sticker books

  • Magnetic activity books

  • Magnetic drawing pad.

​​

These are lightweight, mess-free, and don't require screens to keep children entertained.

​

Other Travel Essentials

14. Refillable Water Bottles

We always carry insulated refillable bottles and often add electrolyte sachets on especially hot days.

15. Baby Carrier

Our Tip: If we had to choose between bringing a stroller or a baby carrier, we'd pick the carrier every time.

​​

You never quite know what the roads, pavements, or walking paths will be like when travelling around Thailand. Some places have uneven footpaths, sandy tracks or no sidewalks at all. ​

​

A comfortable baby carrier gives you far more freedom to explore and makes island hopping, markets, and sightseeing much easier with little ones. ​

1781674897110.jpg

What kids eat in Thailand

Food and Family Eating

Local Markets with Kids

island life

You Might also Like

Let's Get
Social

  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
Koh Lanta sunset Thailand travel
bottom of page