What to Pack for Korea

Clothing

• Lightweight base layers (breathable for humid summers)
• Long-sleeve shirt (sun, subway AC, and layered wear)
• T-shirts (quick-dry preferred)
• Sweater or fleece (spring/fall evenings)
• Packable insulated jacket (winter or late autumn)
• Rain jacket or compact umbrella (summer monsoon season)
• Comfortable pants/jeans (for city walking and cooler months)
• One smarter outfit (nice restaurants, cafes, nightlife)
• Socks and underwear (more pairs than days for humid weather)
• Sleepwear (indoor heating can make rooms feel dry in winter)

Footwear

• Comfortable walking shoes (lots of stairs and transit walking)
• Waterproof sneakers or shoes (rainy season)
• Sandals or slides (summer and hostel/guesthouse use)
• Warm boots (winter travel, especially Seoul and northern regions)
• Extra insoles or blister pads (long walking days)
• Easy slip-on shoes (for traditional floor-seating places)

Toiletries & Health

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (strong UV, even in cooler months)
• Lip balm (dry winter air)
• Moisturizer/hand cream (indoor heating and dry seasons)
• Personal medications (carry prescriptions)
• Basic first-aid kit (blisters, bandages, pain relief)
• Tissues and wet wipes (not always available in public restrooms)
• Travel-size hand sanitizer
• Deodorant (bring preferred type if you use a specific brand)
• Insect repellent (summer and outdoor areas)
• Mask (useful for pollution days or crowded transit)

Electronics & Gear

• Universal power adapter (Korea uses Type C/F plugs)
• 220V-compatible charger check (Korea uses 220V)
• Phone and charging cable
• Power bank (long sightseeing days)
• Portable Wi‑Fi egg or eSIM-capable unlocked phone (easy navigation)
• Plug adaptor with USB ports (fewer outlets in hotels)
• Earbuds or headphones (subway and flights)
• Camera or action camera (if you want better travel shots)
• Small daypack (for water, umbrella, and shopping)
• Reusable water bottle (public refill convenience)

Documents & Money

• Passport (valid for your trip length)
• Visa or K-ETA approval if required (check entry rules before departure)
• Flight and accommodation confirmations
• Travel insurance details
• International driver’s permit (if renting a car)
• Credit cards (chip-enabled and travel-notified)
• Some Korean won cash (for markets, taxis, small vendors)
• Backup card stored separately
• Emergency contact list
• Copies of passport and key documents (digital and paper)

Korea-Specific Essentials

• KakaoMap or Naver Map app ready (best for local navigation)
• T-money transit card or cash to buy one (subway, buses, some taxis)
• Local SIM card or eSIM (strong data helps with transit and translations)
• Type C/F power adapter (Korea plug standard)
• 220V device check (most electronics work, but verify before packing)
• Light layers for winter plus heated indoor spaces (big temperature contrast)
• Foldable umbrella or rain shell (June–September monsoon season)
• Cash for street food and traditional markets (some stalls are cash-preferred)
• Translation app with offline Korean downloaded (menus and signs)
• Small bag for shoes if visiting temples, traditional houses, or floor-seating venues