Ultimate Packing List for Families Traveling in Southeast Asia with Kids: Tips & Must-Haves

Traveling in Southeast Asia with kids is an adventure — but packing right makes all the difference. After exploring Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia with my two kids (ages 4 and 8), I’ve learned what essentials really matter and what’s worth skipping. Here’s the real deal on what to pack, plus some honest tips from our trip.

Clothing and Comfort

When packing clothes for Southeast Asia, think lightweight, quick-drying, and versatile.

• Lightweight clothes: Pack breathable T-shirts, shorts, and dresses. The heat and humidity are intense, especially in places like Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Long-sleeve shirts and pants: For sun protection during daytime outings and mosquito protection in the evenings. We wore these in Chiang Mai and Siem Reap.
• Swimsuits and cover-ups: For beach days and hotel pools. The best kid-friendly beach in Da Nang is My Khe Beach — perfect for building sandcastles and paddling.
• Rain gear: A compact umbrella and waterproof jackets are lifesavers in monsoon season. We had sudden downpours in Hanoi, and quick raincoats kept everyone dry.
• Comfortable shoes: Sandals and closed-toe shoes. Kids need easy slips for airports and busy streets. Pro tip: Bring extra pairs of flip-flops for beach days.
• Sun hats and sunglasses: Protect little eyes and faces from the strong sun.

Honest tip: Avoid packing too many clothes — laundry services are cheap and fast in most places. Space saved here can go for souvenirs.

Toiletries and Health Supplies

Traveling in Southeast Asia means dealing with different bacteria, bugs, and sanitation standards.

• Kids’ sunscreen: Look for broad-spectrum SPF 50+ for sensitive skin. We used Banana Boat Kids in Bali — it’s gentle and effective.
• Mosquito repellant: DEET-based repellents for evenings, especially in Cambodia’s rural areas. We used OFF! FamilyCare wipes, which are less messy.
• First-aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic cream, fever reducers (like children’s paracetamol), and any prescription meds.
• Hand sanitizer and wipes: For quick cleanups before meals or after touching public surfaces.
• Kids’ shampoo and body wash: Travel-sized bottles work best.
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste: Kids love the flavor options, and travel cases keep them clean.

Pro tip: Always keep a small stash of essential medicines in your carry-on. Local pharmacies are great but language barriers can make finding specific meds tricky.

Baby and Kid Gear

If traveling with young kids (or even older ones who still need some gear), packing the right stuff is crucial.

• Lightweight stroller: A compact, foldable stroller that handles uneven terrain. We used the Babyzen Yoyo+ which was perfect for city streets and beach walks.
• Car seats: Many taxis in Southeast Asia don’t have them. Consider renting or bringing a portable booster or car seat if your kids need one.
• Travel high chair: Portable options like the Trunki Boostapak are handy for restaurant meals.
• Kids’ water bottles: Insulated bottles to keep drinks cold. We loved the Hydro Flask Kids Bottle.
• Snacks: Non-perishable, easy snacks — rice crackers, dried fruit, granola bars. Food can be scarce or unfamiliar in remote areas.
• Favorite comfort items: Stuffed animals or blankets. These help when kids are out of their routine or overwhelmed.

Honest tip: Be prepared for some tantrums or fussiness. Having familiar comfort items and snacks can turn things around quickly.

Entertainment and Electronics

Long flights and waits in airports mean bringing entertainment that isn’t just screens.

• Tablet or portable device: Pre-loaded with kid-friendly movies and games. Don’t forget headphones designed for little ears.
• Coloring books, crayons, sticker books: Compact and quiet. The Usborne Sticker Books kept my kids busy on long bus rides.
• Travel journal or small activity books: For older kids to document their trip.
• Compact toys: Small cars, figurines, or travel-sized board games.
• Download apps and offline maps: For navigation and fun.

Pro tip: Set screen time limits and pack some offline activities to avoid constant device use.

Food and Snacks

Eating out in Southeast Asia can be an adventure — and sometimes a challenge with kids’ picky tastes.

• Reusable utensils and straw: Many street stalls don’t have child-friendly utensils.
• Snacks: Dried fruit, nuts, or local treats like Thai mango sticky rice or Vietnamese spring rolls (for the kids, not just the parents).
• Baby food/milk: If needed, bring enough formula or baby food, especially if your kids are on specific diets.
• Water bottles: Fill with safe, filtered water. Many hotels provide bottled water, but having your own is more convenient.

Honest tip: Be cautious with street food. Stick to places with busy, clean stalls or well-reviewed restaurants to avoid upset stomachs.

Important Documents and Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Keep these handy and organized.

• Passports and visas: Check visa requirements for each country. Pro tip: Carry digital copies on your phone and physical copies in a separate place.
• Travel insurance info: Essential in case of medical emergencies.
• Copies of birth certificates: For airline or border crossing verification.
• Local currency and some USD: For places that don’t accept cards. ATMs are plentiful in cities.
• Travel adapters: Southeast Asia uses Type A, C, and G plugs. Pack a universal adapter.
• Travel laundry detergent: Small packets make washing clothes in the hotel sink easy.

Honest tip: Always keep a small zippered pouch with essentials close by when out and about. It’s easy to misplace passports or cash otherwise.

Final Packing Tips

• Pack light but smart: It’s tempting to overpack, but space is a premium on flights and in crowded markets.
• Plan for laundry: Washing clothes in local laundries or hotel sinks saves space.
• Use packing cubes: They keep everything organized and make unpacking faster.
• Be prepared for surprises: Humidity and rainy weather can change plans fast. Pack versatile gear.

Taking the time to pack thoughtfully pays off. Southeast Asia with kids is full of surprises and unforgettable moments — with the right gear, you’ll be ready for it all.