If it’s your first time experiencing Songkran in Thailand, you’re probably wondering what to bring and how to prepare. There’s one thing I should tell you first:
You will get completely wet.
Not a little. Not “just splashed.” You’ll be fully soaked within minutes.
The first time most tourists join Songkran, they usually don’t really prepare. thinking it’s just a fun festival, walk around, take some photos, enjoy the vibe. They went out with a phone in the pocket, small bag, a normal outfit, and sneakers.
Within maybe 10 minutes, people poured a full bucket of water on them. Another person sprayed them from far away with a water gun. After that, it just didn’t stop. Then they came out with wet phone and cash, a soggy sneaker.
That’s when they realized Songkran is fun, but you need to get ready for it.
Songkran Is Fun… But It’s Also Intense
A lot of tourists imagine Songkran as something chill. But if you go to places like Siam Area, Silom or Khao San, it’s actually quite intense.
(Wondering where to visit next after celebrating the festival? Check out our Bangkok Travel Guide 2026)
You’ll be standing under the strong sun at midday, getting splashed every few seconds, walking in big crowds, and staying wet for hours. There’s really no “dry zone” once you’re in. So preparation is not about being over-prepared. It’s just about making your life easier. Because small things can ruin the moment, fun things on the Songkran Festival.
Imagine your water gets into your phone and stops working, your wallet gets messy, and uncomfortable shoes will definitely ruin your festival experience.
After experiencing Songkran a few times, I realized you don’t need a long list but just the right items.
Here are the must-have essentials that will make your Songkran experience 10x better.
What You Should Actually Bring For Songkran | Must Buy List For Songkran
Not everything is necessary. But these are the things that will help maximize your Bangkok Songkran Experience.
- Waterproof Phone Pouch
If you ask me what the most important item is, this is it.
With a waterproof pouch, you can still capture photos/moments of Thailand’s Songkran, get connected with friends, and most importantly, use Google Maps to get to places.
You can find waterproof pouches almost anywhere during Songkran. But if you just want to get everything quickly without walking around too much, BigC is the easiest and most convenient to get everything in one place.
Waterproof phone pouches usually start from around 29 THB, and waterproof goggles from about 59 THB.
Pro tip: Get two pouches if you can. One for your phone, and another for your cash or passport. Once you’re already out there in the water, it’s not very easy to fix things if something gets wet.
- Quick-Dry Towel (Didn’t think I needed it… but I did)
At first I thought, “I’m already wet, why do I need a towel?” But after a while, you’ll understand. Water gets into your eyes. Your hands are always wet. Sometimes you just want to feel a bit dry for a moment.
A small towel helps more than you think to wipe your face, dry your hands, just feel a bit more comfortable.
Available in BigC’s sports and home section, typically 99-149 THB depending on size. It’s one of those small things that make the whole day better.
- Sunscreen (You’ll forget this… but don’t)
Songkran is in April. And Bangkok’s heat is no joke. You’re outside for hours, under the sun, and water keeps washing everything off.
Get a sunscreen with SPF 50+ that you can reapply anytime. BigC carries both local Thai brands (Mizumi, Ka-La, Beauty Cottage) and international options, typically 45-199 THB, no need to buy in bulk. Simple, but important.
(Pro tip: Get the sachet ones, it’s way more convenient than you think)
- Flip-Flops or Something You Don’t Care About
Please don’t wear your favorite shoes. When sneakers get soaked, they become heavy, uncomfortable, and just annoying. And you don’t want to ruin your favourite sneaker.
Now I just go with simple flip-flops or water-friendly sandals. Pick up a cheap pair of rubber flip-flops from BigC for 39-79 THB. Wear them, lose them, leave them no guilt. Also, the road gets slippery. So something easy and safe is better.
- Water Gun (Definitely Makes It More Fun)
This one is not a “must”… but honestly, it makes the experience a lot more fun.
At first, I thought I didn’t need one. But after getting splashed non-stop, you kind of want to fight back a little.
You’ll see water guns everywhere during Thai Songkran, from small ones to big “super soaker” style. If you just want something simple, even a small one works fine. Prices usually start from around 29 THB, so it’s easy to grab one and join the fun.
Where Everything Can Be Found (Quick and Easy)
If you don’t want to spend time going around different shops, you can get everything in one place – BigC Rajdamri (Best shopping destination for tourists)
Everything above is available. Here’s the quick guide:
- Floor 2 :
- Sunscreen, Health
- Beauty aisle
- Floor 3 :
- Phone pouches & camera accessories – Electronics accessories area
- Towels & sportswear – Home and clothing
- Flip-flops & shoes – Footwear section
- Waterproof bags – Travel accessories
And the location is super convenient, can be easily reached by BTS sky train at Chitlom Station. You don’t need to overplan. Just go in, get what you need, and you’re ready.
Final Thought
Songkran is messy, random, and sometimes a bit chaotic.
But that’s exactly why it’s fun. You don’t need to prepare perfectly. You just need to prepare enough so you don’t worry about small things.
Because once you’re out there getting splashed, laughing with strangers, walking through the crowd, you’ll realize this is one of those moments you’ll remember for a long time.
Songkran FAQ:
Q1 : What should I bring for Songkran in Bangkok?
A1 : You don’t need a lot, but a few essentials help a lot:
- waterproof phone pouch
- small towel
- sunscreen
- flip-flops or water-friendly shoes
- small waterproof pouch for cash. Keep it light and simple.
Q2 : What should I NOT bring to Songkran?
A2 : Avoid bringing expensive electronics (without protection), full wallet with all cards, important documents, luxury items. There’s a high chance everything will get wet.
Q3 : What should I wear during Songkran?
A3 : Wear things that are light and comfortable, quick-drying, easy to move in. Most people wear t-shirts, shorts, and sandals.
Q4: Can I use my phone during Songkran?
A4: Yes but only if it’s protected.
A waterproof pouch lets you take photos, use maps, and stay connected. Without it, your phone may stop working quickly.
Q5: Where can I buy Songkran items in Bangkok?
A5: You can find everything in many places, but for convenience, many tourists go to places like Big C Ratchadamri, where everything is in one building.
Q6: Is Songkran safe for tourists?
A6: Yes, generally it’s very safe and friendly. Just take care of your belongings, avoid slippery areas, and stay hydrated. And enjoy the experience.