Can I wear shorts to temples?

No. Most temples require covered knees and shoulders. Bring lightweight pants or long skirts for temple visits. Some temples rent sarongs, but don't count on it.

How many clothes should I pack for a 2-week trip?

Pack for 5-7 days and do laundry. Laundry service costs $1-3 per kg throughout Southeast Asia. You'll want to buy local clothes anyway—they're cheaper and better suited to the climate.

Do I need hiking boots for jungle treks?

Only for serious multi-day treks. Most day hikes and temple visits work fine with sturdy walking shoes. Boots take forever to dry and are overkill for most activities.

What about dressy clothes for nice restaurants?

One nicer outfit covers most situations. Dark pants and a collared shirt work for men. A simple dress or nice top with pants works for women. Even upscale places are more casual than Western equivalents.

What to wear in tropical Southeast Asia

Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen in light colors. Bring modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for temples, a light rain jacket for monsoon season, and comfortable walking shoes that dry quickly. Avoid heavy fabrics, dark colors, and anything that can't handle humidity.

Choose breathable base fabrics. Pack cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. Avoid polyester blends that trap heat. Light colors reflect sun and hide sweat stains better than dark ones.
Plan for temple visits. Bring pants or long skirts that cover knees, and shirts that cover shoulders. Many temples won't let you in otherwise. A lightweight cardigan works for quick shoulder coverage.
Prepare for rain. Pack a compact rain jacket or poncho. Umbrellas are bulky and useless in tropical downpours. Your clothes will get wet anyway—choose items that dry fast.
Select proper footwear. Bring one pair of comfortable walking shoes that can handle getting wet, and flip-flops or sandals for beaches and casual wear. Avoid leather shoes—they'll never dry and may get moldy.
Layer for air conditioning. Indoor spaces are often aggressively air-conditioned. Pack a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt for buses, restaurants, and shopping malls where temperatures can drop to 60°F.

Can I wear shorts to temples?: No. Most temples require covered knees and shoulders. Bring lightweight pants or long skirts for temple visits. Some temples rent sarongs, but don't count on it.
How many clothes should I pack for a 2-week trip?: Pack for 5-7 days and do laundry. Laundry service costs $1-3 per kg throughout Southeast Asia. You'll want to buy local clothes anyway—they're cheaper and better suited to the climate.
Do I need hiking boots for jungle treks?: Only for serious multi-day treks. Most day hikes and temple visits work fine with sturdy walking shoes. Boots take forever to dry and are overkill for most activities.
What about dressy clothes for nice restaurants?: One nicer outfit covers most situations. Dark pants and a collared shirt work for men. A simple dress or nice top with pants works for women. Even upscale places are more casual than Western equivalents.