Preparing for your trip to Asia: checklist of essentials
It's almost time to go! Going on a trip can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but for everything to go smoothly, it is essential to prepare properly. Whether you are going to discover the beaches of Thailand, the temples of cambodia or the forests of Indonesia, let's see together the essentials to include in your list of preparations for a trip to Asia.
Essential administrative documents
One of the first things to consider when planning your trip is the set of your administrative documentsThese are often required to fly, book accommodation or rent a vehicle.
Identity documents and supporting documents
- Identity card or passport
- Driving license + international license (motorcycle license also for renting two-wheelers)
- Contacts, insurance certificate and assistance
- International vaccination record
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- Transport and accommodation reservations
- Student card if applicable
- Duplicate keys
Ready for take off?
Digital backup and photocopies
It is highly recommended to Scan all your important documents and store them in your mailbox or on a cloud. In case of poor internet connection at your destination, remember to bring paper photocopies of these documents.
- Email containing digital copies and/or USB with digital versions of the documents
- Useful addresses of French-speaking embassies in the countries visited
Payment methods to be provided
To have some various payment methods is crucial when traveling internationally. Here's what to pack:
- An international bank card
- Your Revolut card or other neo-banking service for secure payments without fees
- Also consider cash in euros and of course in the local currency
- Eventually, consider traveler's checks
- And, it may be useful, the contact details of your banker
Clothes and accessories
Your suitcase or bag will be made according to the climate and the planned activities. It can be hot and humid, so light and absorbent clothing, but don't forget a little wool because it can also be cool in some regions, especially at altitude. Here are some categories of clothing and accessories to consider:
Clothing
- Underwear and pajamas
- T-shirts and shirts
- Pants and shorts
- Dresses and skirts
- Warm or windproof jackets
- K-way or poncho against the rain
Accessories
- Suitable shoes (city, hiking, etc.)
- Scarves, pareos or large scarves
Traveling light can be a good idea.
Hygiene and health
While you will often have toiletries available in hotels, depending on the ranges and destinations, this will not always be the case. Take with you some toiletries and care products is not too much for a peaceful trip. Here is a basic list:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Soap and shampoo
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- Common medications and prescriptions
Understanding the climate of Southeast Asia
Climate and weather play a crucial role in planning your trip.Southeast Asia generally experiences two main seasons. : the dry season and the rainy season. The diversity of climatic conditions influences the optimal time to visit each specific region.
For more information about Thailand, I wrote a dedicated article:
Rice fields in Thailand in the right season (around October, early November)
Dry season
The dry season is the most popular among travelers because it offers pleasant temperatures and little rainfall. It is the ideal time to explore the paradisiacal beaches and cultural sites without fear of the surprise downpour.
Rainy season
Characterized by high humidity and regular showers (often in the evening), the rainy season deters some tourists, but it also offers green landscapes and a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.
Choosing your luggage
Combine a lightweight backpack and a checked suitcase is often the best option for traveling in Southeast Asia. This combination allows flexibility and enough space for different types of activities.
Checked suitcase
A spacious suitcase is useful for carrying clothes and bulky items. Make sure it is sturdy and easy to handle.
Daypack
For daily excursions, a lightweight backpack with various practical compartments is essential. It is also a good idea to take some extra underwear because their size can be problematic depending on the country visited.
Ideally, the backpack allows you to carry electronic products and valuables to keep them with you during the trip.
Waterproof bags can also be a useful accessory!
Additional equipment
There are a few technical things that can greatly improve your trip:
- External battery to charge your electronic devices
- Electrical plug adapters (this varies by country, in Thailand many hotels are now equipped with sockets that accept European pins)
Define your travel budget
In order to plan your adventure with peace of mind, it is essential to determine your global budget. The latter will directly influence the length and comfort of your stay.
Establish budget forecasts
Start by listing all the fixed expenses that will continue while you are away (rent, subscriptions, etc.). Then, estimate how much you can save before you leave as well as the total amount allocated to the trip.
You can get cost of living estimates on sites like numbeo (see an example for Bangkok)
Tip: A general rule for estimating the length of stay
An effective model is to average €1000 per month per person when traveling economically (affordable accommodation, local transportation). This will help to better manage your expectations and ensure a pleasant experience without major financial constraints.
Preparing your trip to Southeast Asia requires organization and anticipation. Even if you like adventure and a large part of improvisation, it is not useless to plan a few important points, and you now have all the keys in hand to fully enjoy your Asian adventure, whatever the destinations you choose.
Have a good trip, tell us about it!
Cover photo of Alice young on Unsplash
