Things to Prepare for Songkran Festival in Thailand

Songkran, Thai New Year’s national holiday is considered as one of the most important festivals in Thailand. It is celebrated from April 13^th to 15^th annually. Every Thai person will clean their houses, visit temples, parade and play free water fight together. Wherever you are in Thailand during these days, you will not be able to go outside without getting soaked. Thus, so as to help you prepare well for this special occasion, we have listed some tips on what to pack as well as what to buy for Songkran.

1. Two outfits

In Chiang Mai, the ultimate destination of Songkran, the water fights often begin from mid-morning to late afternoon. For 3 days joining the festival, you should prepare at least 2 outfits to switch. One for daytime activities and one for nighttime.

the ultimate destination of Songkran, the water fights often begin from mid-morning to late afternoon

2. Water gun

Of course, you cannot have fun in the water fight without having a gun for yourself. The price for one is about 140 Baht. Normally, during these days, it is hard to negotiate with the sellers so you really need to be armed. If you like the feeling of winning, we highly recommend you to choose a water pistol. It’s more fun when having big guns.

You cannot have fun in the water fight without having a gun for yourself

3. Waterproof necklace for money and camera

In order to keep your money and camera dry, you ought to prepare a waterproof necklace, which is just around 60 Baht. This will allow you to keep things safe around your neck. In addition, you can still take some photos thanks to the clear plastic necklace.

In order to keep your money and camera dry, you ought to prepare a waterproof necklace

4. Toilet paper

In Chiang Mai, there are some restaurants available for you to eat and you can ask for the restroom. However, if you get in a pinch without any intention, you can still use the bathrooms in the vicinity of the temples here. Remember to bring coins to purchase toilet paper. The bathrooms here are so special that you will have to squat to let things out. Anyway, it will be a new experience for every visitor.

Remember to bring coins to purchase toilet paper

5. A great attitude

Once participating in Songkran, you may be thrown a bucket full of ice cold water. Please, don’t take offence! It is only an activity of the festival that people will target anyone who comes across their face. So, lighten up and enjoy your time.

The streets are full with people from early afternoon till night. There will be  music festivals and people will go outside to chill with friends and family. So, be patient if it takes you a long period of time to get through the crowd to get to your wanted places.

It is only an activity of the festival that people will target anyone who comes across their face

To sum up, there are some must-have stuff you need to prepare to join Songkran in April. They will help you to survive and make the most of the festivals. It is very simple to pack and buy those things. You can still bring all other items for our trip if necessary.

Hang Moon

Image sources: Internet