Vaccinations and medicines
Ask your doctor for advice, but do also check the Internet. Many governments provide useful information there. See our ‘Links’ page, too.
Here are some good links about health and vaccinations:
The following vaccines are often recommended by doctors in Europe and America (See your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect.):
- Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG).
- Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood, have sexual contact with the local population or be exposed through medical treatment.
- Japanese encephalitis, only if you plan to visit rural areas.
- Rabies, if you might be exposed to wild or domestic animals.
- Typhoid vaccination, according to some, because of the presence of S. typhus strains resistant to multiple antibiotics in this region.
- If you visit an area where there is risk for malaria (such as Phou Khao Khouai National Park in Laos) take your malaria prevention medication before, during and after travel, as directed.
- If necessary, booster doses for tetanus, diphtheria and measles, and a one-time dose of polio for adults.
Some tourists have paid more for their vaccinations and medicines than for their ticket to Thailand! Please note that most medicines can be bought in Thailand at lower prices than in Europe or North America. Doctors' fees are also lower, so you might save money by only taking the medicines that need to be taken in advance in your home country!
Insurance
A travel insurance that covers accidents and medical treatment and also a cancellation of your trip is recommended. Bring the insurance policy/ certificate with you.
We can book your travel insurance on request. Please contact us one month in advance.
Packing list suggestion
- Bed sheets/cotton sleeping bag and towels (lightweight sleeping bag for the cool season: Nov – Feb) for accommodation in home stays.
- Clothes: Warm clothes for the cool season. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to avoid insect bites.
- Bank/Credit card that you can use at ATMs (bring two, in case one does not work). Make sure to notify your bank/credit card company that you will be using the cards in SE Asia.
- Your travel insurance policy/certificate.
- Quick-drying clothing.
- Biodegradable soap/hand sanitizer.
- Wash bag.
- Binoculars.
- Torch/flashlight.
- Trekking shoes.
- Flip-flops.
Most items (e.g. clothes, toiletries, first aid items, insect repellent) can be purchased cheaply in the country.
