How to Pack for Humidity in Southeast Asia

Prioritize loose-fitting clothing made of linen or moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics that dry overnight. Skip heavy denim and cotton, which trap moisture and take days to dry in the tropical climate.

  1. Audit your fabrics. Ditch the thick cotton t-shirts and jeans. Pack lightweight linens, merino wool, or performance fabrics like Tencel. If it takes more than 6 hours to dry after a sink-wash, leave it at home.
  2. Use a modular packing system. Pack your clothes in mesh compression cubes. This keeps your clean clothes ventilated and separated from damp, sweaty laundry that you haven't had time to wash yet.
  3. Bring a dedicated 'damp' bag. Carry a waterproof roll-top dry bag or a simple silicone zip pouch. When you are moving between locations, use this to store wet swimsuits or sweaty gym clothes so they don't sour the rest of your luggage.
  4. Choose the right footwear. Pack one pair of quick-dry sandals with arch support and one pair of lightweight, breathable mesh sneakers. Leave leather shoes at home; they will grow mold in the humidity.
Will my electronics break in the humidity?
Condensation is the enemy. When moving from a freezing air-conditioned room to the 90% humidity outside, keep your electronics in your bag for 15 minutes to let them adjust slowly.
How many changes of clothes should I bring?
Bring enough for 7 days. Because of the humidity, you will sweat through your clothes daily. Budget for local laundry service once a week.