Even the most seasoned travelers second-guess themselves when packing. Of course, you want to be sure you’re not forgetting any of the most basic things, but at the same time, you are attempting to foresee less obvious details that might be important or make your travels smoother. Nowadays, Phuket isn’t exactly a remote off-the-beaten-path destination, so if you forget your toothbrush, it’s not like you’re going to have to carve a new one from wood. However, being prepared will inevitably save you time, money, and hassle. 

Passport

While you obviously need your passport when coming to Thailand, you also need to be sure it meets the other basic requirements. First, it needs to be valid for at least six more months from your date of arrival in Thailand. Next, you’ll need to have two full blank pages. If you don’t, some countries enable you to add blank pages to your passport under certain circumstances. Also, make sure your passport isn’t damaged in any way, including any removed or torn pages, faded writing or photo, or stains. You may think that surely airport immigration won’t simply send you home for a little tear on a page of your passport, but that can most certainly happen. Don’t take the risk.

Electrical

Many travelers tend to overlook the fact that Thailand's electrical infrastructure may differ from that of their home country. For example, the outlets have a different shape than many other countries, so an adapter might be necessary to even plug in your devices. Additionally, the electrical system here runs on 220 volts, while many other countries use 110 volts. While many modern devices are equipped to handle either current, not all are, so it’s important to check before plugging it in to avoid potential damage. 

Insurance

Fortunately, health care in Thailand is quite good, especially in bigger cities, but let’s hope you don’t have to find out. However, accidents happen, and a little foresight can save you hassle and money. Many health insurance packages can offer comprehensive coverage, but does it apply internationally, and specifically in Thailand? If not, your provider may offer add-ons for travel insurance, or if they don’t, affordable independent travel insurance can be easily found. If you have health/travel/accident insurance that is going to cover you here, carry your card on you; that way, if something happens, you can be treated immediately without question. Another helpful tip while we’re discussing insurance is that if you do not have a valid license to drive a car or motorbike in Thailand and have an accident, you will not be covered by insurance in most cases. 

Medications

If you simply need something for an upset stomach or even insulin if you’re diabetic, there are pharmacies aplenty all across Phuket. However, if you need any less common medicines, it’s a good idea to bring along enough to get you through your trip, plus extra. However, unless it’s something very obscure, you might be able to find it here at a much lower cost than in your home country, and you can stock up. 

Financials

Since Phuket is almost purely a tourism-based economy, there is no lack of ways to exchange currency or withdraw cash from ATMs. What is crucial to have is a backup plan. Visiting Phuket with only one way to get funds is asking for problems. Banks often block foreign transactions if you haven’t notified them in advance ,and the time difference can make it difficult to contact customer service. At the very least, bring a bit of cash to fall back on in case you experience difficulties.