Backpacking in Thailand

So you want to have the ultimate Thai backpacking adventure? Between the gorgeous beaches and exotic nightlife of the cities; the natural beauty and timeless wonder of the many Buddhist temples, Thailand is a great choice!

With a little bit of planning you can prepare yourself for the trials and jubilation of backpacking through Thailand. Naturally, you'll want to pack lightly, as with any backpacking trip. Here is a list of items you'll definitely want to have along while traveling throughout Thailand.

The lighter the clothes are the better to cope with the tropical climate while hiking about. Try to choose lighter colors as well. This will make all the difference when traversing areas with no shade cover.

Even if you plan on following better known paths, you never know when you'll be given directional instructions to your next destination. A compass will surely come in handy probably more often than you might be thinking.

If you're like me and burn easily, chances are you wouldn't forget this important item. But even for those of you who don't tend to burn, it's a very good idea to apply some sunscreen each day before heading out, as you'll probably be spending more time outdoors than you have in a while.

These little gadgets are truly invaluable. I can't tell you how many times I've used mine to mend rain gear and other items, as well as cut up veggies for supper.

The smallest, most lightweight rain gear is the humble, yet versatile poncho. These can be rolled compactly to take up very little room and work great over backpacks to keep all your items dry too. If you plan to visit Thailand during rainy season (July-November) you may want to invest in a somewhat heavier rain jacket or rain hat to compliment your poncho.

In my opinion you really don't have to worry about buying malaria medicine, when prevention is the best cure. Mosquitoes shouldn't be a problem except at night in some areas. Apply a decent amount of mosquito repellant to avoid being bitten.

Only the swampier areas have big mosquito problems, so unless you're planning on camping in the swamp you probably don't need to worry about malarial medicines or mosquito nets. That said, having one and not needing it is better than not having one and needing one. Mosquito nets don't cost very much an take up very little room in a pack. If you plan on doing a lot of camping it's probably worth investing in a mosquito net.

Surprisingly, ear plugs were one of the things I used most often when in the city. Whether it was a loud, but extremely necessary air conditioner, or a bone rattling train ride, you'll be glad you brought some earplugs. Your quality of sleep while on a train may depend solely on the use of earplugs.

Get these in larger denominations to avoid transaction fees for cashing your travelers checks. Unless you plan on staying in high-end hotels, travelers checks in amounts of $50 or $100 will work well.

Packing Light

Above all, pack light. This cannot be over emphasized. You certainly don't want a backpack heavier than 25 pounds (10 kg), unless you're stronger than average or a glutton for punishment. Remember the golden rule of backpacking: Your pack will feel at least twice as heavy by the end of a long day, if you're lucky. Through in a little bit steeper incline or a thundershower, and that innocent seeming 15 pound pack can become an unwieldy hazard for some trekkers.

It's worth thinking ahead in order to determine which things you can live without. It may be worth seeking lighter versions of some items. On my most disciplined packing sessions, I've been known to weigh each item as I'm making my packing list. What I've found is that it's often surprising which items turn out to be the heaviest, relative to how useful they may be. This way you can try to find lighter versions of important, but space hogging, items.

Itinerary

For more Thailand backpackers than not, Bangkok is the first destination along their tour of Thailand, and for good reason. Bangkok is an extremely lively city worth spending at least a few days nights on.

Bangkok is quite different from any other area of Thailand. With a population of six million, the transportation system certainly has its challenges. I've had both good and impossibly difficult experiences while using Bangkok's metro system. All I can say is plan ahead, and definitely talk to someone about the route before striking ahead. Ask the person who sells you the ticket if the route is as the map shows.

Bangkok rush hour, downtown, is an amazing experience. -Not necessarily a good one, but an Experience nonetheless. Picture traffic roaring to a deafening peak, amidst smog thick enough to swirl up and around, forming little black clouds everywhere. It seems like there was construction everywhere I turned. And street crossing, that's an entirely different sport. Can you run while thinking quickly?

To sample Bangkok nightlife the best way to go is by foot. Just start walking and before you know it you'll run into somewhere worth being. If you're looking for a specific type of bar or club, just ask around. Thais are very friendly. Or do a net search for the type of scene you're looking for. With all the activity of Bangkok at night, there's truly something for everyone.

Bangkok's Grand Palace

Of course the Grand Palace is a must see while in Bangkok. This vast complex of buildings served as the residence of Thailand's king between the 1700s and the middle of the 1900s. See the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. This beautiful golden temple is painted in scenes from Ramayana mythology. And don't miss the statues of yak (giants). Then again, it would be hard to miss them, their over fifteen feet tall. Also noteworthy is the gorgeous model of Angkor Wat, a 12th century Cambodian temple of verdant beauty, representing the shared roots of Thai and Cambodian religious and cultural roots.

North or South?

When you've had your fill of all that is Bangkok, it's time to decide in which direction, north or south, that you'll travel next. South is the direction to turn if you want to hit the beaches. The northern path leads to the "Golden Triangle" of Thailand, made up of Chiang Mai and luscious landscapes. If you want to see the natural beauty of Thailand, hiking through the rolling hills or mountains, north is the way you want to go.

I, personally, think both north and south are worth visiting. The lure of relaxing by the ocean makes southern beaches tempting for many backpackers heading out from Bangkok, while the northern scenery just can't be beat. If you're up for a jungle trek, be sure you make time for a northern trip.

If you would like to go on a guided trip, there are several that fly from Bangkok north to Chiang Mai. From there you can trek through jungles and visit small jungle villages. There are hot springs and rafting in the Mae Klong River. Check around on the net for backpacking guides in north Thailand to compare current program offerings.

Buddhist Temples

Being predominantly a Buddhist nation, Thailand is home to so many breath taking temples that you've just got to visit at least a few of them. A little know secret for all of you frugal types: You can travel very cheaply if you stay at Buddhist temples. This is also a great way to directly learn more about Buddhism.

Thai Customs

Many visitors to Thailand are ignorant of the local customs. In order to smooth your transition to Thai culture and be able to handle simple transactions, you're going to need to learn something of the Thai language and customs.

The customary greeting in Thailand is to place your palms together, raised to chest height. This gesture is used as a sign of respect and can also denote greeting someone who is your superior either in social standing or age.

Though Thais tend to be tolerant of visitors' customs, there are a few issues worth avoiding altogether. Any seemingly negative comment about Buddhism or the monarchy will not be tolerated. Public displays of affection are a big no-no. Though Thais may have become somewhat accustomed to Western couples hugging or holding hands, these actions are likely to make them uncomfortable. You'd be wise to remember these three rules of thumb while visiting Thailand. That and smile a lot! Thais are friendly, polite people. Whether greeting or trying to work out a problem, be sure to smile and remain calm and polite. This will get your further in the eyes of any Thai than being demanding or overly passionate.

Most Thais take of their shoes before entering any building. While I was aware of this fact, I was a little surprised by the sight of vast shoe piles outside of the larger stores and buildings. When in Thailand… It's a good idea to follow this custom and add your shoes to the pile before entering.

Priceless

While backpacking in Thailand you're going to have your share of ups and downs. As long as you're prepared for squat toilets and taking a shower by pouring water over your body from buckets, you'll adjust to your Thai adventure easily enough. Sure, you'll sleep on the floor, and you're probably going to have at least one upset stomach. It's going to be hot and you're going to get rained on if you're there during rainy season, but in the end you'll have a collection of unbelievable experiences you'll always remember.