The Ultimate Korea Packing List: An All Seasons Guide On What To Wear

Traveling to Korea? Whether you’re planning to witness the charming cherry blossoms in spring or the mesmerizing snowfall in winter, knowing what to pack for a trip to Korea can go a long way in making your journey tranquil. Each season in Korea, from the cool spring to moist summer, brilliant autumn, and freezing winter, necessitates unique attire. This guide has answers to your every question including what to pack, where to buy winter wear in Korea, and how much money to carry.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Korea is famous for its enchanting cherry blossom landscapes. Though the weather tends to be pleasant, you may encounter some cold nights and rain.

• Lightweight clothing like t-shirts, casual pants
• A waterproof jacket for surprise rain showers
• Warmer clothes for cooler evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing

Summer (June to August)

In summer, Korea often experiences high humidity and monsoons. Casual and comfortable wear is suitable, yet, remember to carry a umbrella or raincoat.

• Lightweight t-shirts, shorts, skirts
• A hat and sunscreen to protect against intense UV rays
• An umbrella or raincoat for sudden summer showers
• A swimsuit if you’re visiting a beach or resort

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the perfect time to experience the gorgeous fall foliage in Korea. Temperatures range from mild to chilly.

• A mix of warm and light clothing like t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and jeans
• A medium-weight jacket
• Scarf and gloves for chilly nights
• Comfortable shoes or boots

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Korea can be very cold with temperatures often falling below freezing. Snow is quite common as well.

• Warm clothing such as sweaters, thermal underwear, and winter jackets
• A scarf, hat, and gloves for extra warmth
• Waterproof shoes or boots

As for winter wear, there are many places in Korea where you can buy good quality winter clothing such as Dongdaemun Market, Namdaemun Market, or large department stores.

The Budget Factor

The amount of money to bring highly depends on factors such as the length of your stay, personal spending habits, and whether your trip includes the cost of hotels, meals etc. As a rough guide, anywhere between 50,000 to 100,000 KRW (approx $45-$90) per day should cover most of your basic expenses like local transportation, food and some sightseeing. Remember, credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, so carrying a lot of cash may not be necessary.

Your upcoming trip to Korea can be an ultimate journey of discovery and fun. With this meticulously prepared packing list, every season of your Korea visit can be enjoyed to the fullest!

Essential Items To Pack For A Korea Trip

Outlined below are all of the essential items you need to prepare for your trip to Korea, applicable in all seasons. Subscribe to the Be Marie Korea newsletter to receive a complimentary Korea packing checklist.

1. Travel Necessities

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, there are certain items you should always bring with you. Here are some of them:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and has one empty page remaining.
• Visa: While most nationalities can enter South Korea without a pre-arranged tourist visa, it is always advisable to verify in advance. You can check visa requirements here.
• Hotel Reservations: After arriving in Korea, you’ll be asked to provide your first night’s hotel address on the immigration landing card. It’s crucial to have a booking for the first night, and a paper printout can serve as a useful reference.
• Travel Insurance: It is crucial to have travel insurance when traveling to Korea or any other part of the world. This serves as financial protection against health care expenses, luggage damage, and flight delays. Check comprehensive information and various affordable options here.
• Credit Cards and Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted throughout Korea. You should confirm with your bank if your card can be used internationally. Wondering how much money you should bring to Korea for a week? Find out more here.
• Korea Rail Pass: If you’re planning long-distance travel across the country by train, a rail pass is a savvy economic choice. Order it online at least three days before your first train journey. Check out more details.
• Traveling In Seoul: For local transport within Seoul, you’ll need a T Money Transport card.
• Skincare Clinics: Don’t miss out on high-tech skincare treatments and medical procedures, for which Korea is globally renowned. Read more about skincare and medical procedures in Korea here.

Please note, withdrawing money with a foreign card in Korea can sometimes be a challenge. Not all local banks accommodate foreign debit or credit cards. Consider acquiring a Revolut Travel card, which is designed specifically for international use. Discover more information here.

2. Electronics

Stay connected during your Korea trip with these electronic gadgets:

• Wifi and SIM Card Access: You can easily rent a portable WiFi device upon arriving at the airport. Although free WiFi is readily available in most shops and eateries, carrying a personal device is more convenient. Discover available WiFi device options here.
• Cell Phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked if you intend to make calls or send texts. Remember to bring your phone charger and charging cable. Using your phone internationally can come with high charges, so it’s important to check rates with your provider beforehand.
• Electric converters and power adapters: The Korean electrical outlet uses the European style plug with two round holes. The voltage is 220v at 60 Hertz. Make sure you bring the appropriate travel adapter to charge all your devices. Check the Korea travel converter guide here.
• Camera, SD cards, and batteries: Don’t miss capturing the beautiful sights of Korea. Consider bringing a detachable lens if you plan to take pictures using your phone.
• Power Bank: If you’ll be using your phone intensively, especially for navigation or photography, make sure to bring a power bank.

3. Supplementary Items

Don’t forget these additional items:

• Maps and Apps: Download local map apps like Kakao Maps and Naver Maps, and the Seoul Subway app for accurate navigation. A physical map can also be helpful if you prefer a non-digital guide. Check out the Periplus or Lonely Planet Maps for reliable travel guides.
• Padlock: Bring a padlock if you’re planning to stay at a hostel and need to safely store your belongings in the lockers.
• Water Bottle: Tap water in Korea is safe to drink, so you can save money and reduce plastic waste by bringing a reusable water bottle.
• Medication: Remember to carry any necessary prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Please be aware that custom regulations in Korea can be strict on certain common drugs and medical devices like syringes. If in doubt, refer to these links:

• Goods To Declare Upon Arrival In South Korea
• Korean Customs Q&A On Medicine

What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Korea

Korean winters present a picturesque landscape with fluffy snow-capped mountains, providing the perfect opportunity for various winter-based activities like skiing. However, the chilly climate, with temperatures potentially plummeting to around -20°C in mountainous regions, calls for appropriate winter wear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. So, when planning a winter getaway to Korea, be sure to incorporate layers into your packing list and equip yourself with high-quality winter wear to combat the powerful winds.

While winter might not be the peak tourist season in Korea, it still boasts a unique charm that is worth experiencing. Be it enjoying the mesmerising view of the snow-laden Korean mountains, engaging in thrilling skiing expeditions, or participating in a myriad of winter festivals, Korea guarantees to offer a distinct winter wonderland experience.

1. Weather in Winter in Korea

Characterised by cold and dry weather, Korean winters are renowned for abundant snowfall, especially in the northern region of the country and ski destinations. The mercury levels could drop to less than -20°C from late December extending through February. However, amidst the chilly winter season, a lot of sunny days with crystal blue skies can also be expected — ideal for capturing stunningly beautiful snapshots for Instagram.

Amidst the snow-coated landscape, Korea doesn’t cultivate a lot of local fruits and vegetables during this season, except for Mandarin Oranges from Jeju Island, a typical winter fruit.

For a memorable winter experience, consider visiting places like Busan, Vivaldi Ski Resort, Jjimjilbangs, as well as partaking in unique festivities like Christmas and the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival.

2. Essential Packing for Winter in Korea

To ensure a warm, comfortable journey, your packing list should include:

• A ski jacket or an equally warm jacket – a must-have for Korean winters!
• Sweaters and long-sleeved t-shirts
• Jeans, long thick trousers, and potentially thermal underwear
• Woolen or thick socks (Cotton socks should preferably be avoided)
• Waterproof shoes
• Winter accessories like hat, gloves, and scarf
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin against the sun and the harsh, cold temperatures.

Hot Packs: A perfect companion during the winter, hot packs can effectively keep your hands and feet warm. They can be procured from any convenience store across Korea or can be bought in bulk online. HotHands Hot Packs are highly recommended for your winter travels.

What To Pack for Spring in Korea

As one of the ideal times for a visit, spring in Korea offers stunning landscapes covered in cherry blossom tree blooms. Notably, the start and end of spring in this location showcase different weather experiences. In particular, the seasonOpens in a chilly and cold atmosphere and gradually shifts to warm, enjoyable weather conditions. For those planning to travel to Korea during this period, it’s advisable to include layered clothing in your packing list to adapt to the changing temperatures. It is also essential to prepare for hot weather.

Spring in Seoul, as well as in other parts of Korea, is quite a captivating sight and a well-regarded season. The blooming cherry blossom trees, which appear towards the end of April, accentuate the beauty of this region during spring. However, the blooming period could vary annually, hence the need to confirm this information prior to your visit.

1. Understanding Korea’s Spring Weather

Spring in Korea commences with cold, wet conditions, slowly transitioning to warm weather. Between the end of March and the beginning of April, cherry blossoms begin to bud and bloom, offering breathtaking scenes. Other fascinating flora during this period include magnolias and several other blooming trees. Taste-wise, strawberries and Korean yellow melons found in spring are delectably sweet.

A downside to this season, however, is the yellow dust that is carried from China and Mongolia to South Korea. During this time, wearing a face mask is highly advised for health reasons.

There are several great places of interest you might consider visiting during spring. Examples include the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival, Daegu, and covered markets in Seoul where you can enjoy a food tour. Seoul especially hosts several flower festivals during this period, making it a city worth exploring.

2. Essential Spring Do’s for Your Visit to Korea

When preparing your packing list, consider including:

• T-shirts
• Long sleeve shirts
• Light jackets
• Light sweaters (for colder days)
• Long trousers/jeans
• Sneakers or covered shoes
• Appropriately rated face masks for protection during the yellow dust season. Check your options for K-related dust masks here.

Additional Tips:

It’s worthy to note that if you have allergic reactions, especially during the cherry blossom season, you should consider carrying allergy/hay fever medication with you to ensure your comfort throughout your stay in Korea. The phenomenal beauty and experiences that Korea has to offer during spring are something one shouldn’t have to miss due to allergies.

What To Pack For Summer in South Korea

With summer temperatures soaring as high as 40°C, South Korea’s season which spans from June to August, can be an exhilarating experience. Loaded with extreme humidity and showers, it becomes necessary to take certain precautions such as packing light, preparing for sun protection and carrying an umbrella.

However, due to the high chances of heavy rainfall, floods, and typhoons towards the end of July and early August, it might be advisable to reconsider travel plans during this time.

Understanding the Korean Summer Weather

The South Korean summer closely corresponds to the monsoon season, which typically lasts for about two weeks. Starting in late June and extending till mid July, this period sees incessant rain, particularly in Seoul. It is advisable to avoid travelling to Korea during this timeframe.

Daytime temperatures are characteristically hot, often reaching up to 38°C. Consequently, fundamentals like sun hats, sunscreen, and staying well-hydrated become exceptionally important.

While battling the heat, you can also indulge in the local cuisine adapted to the summer atmosphere, including watermelon, juicy peaches, samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and cold noodles.

Moreover, attractions such as the Hangang river cruise or the Boryeong Mud Festival make for top summer destinations.

Packing Essentials for Korean Summer

The summer packing list for Korea should include the following:

• Umbrella: For unexpected showers
• Comfortable shoes or sandals
• Insect repellents: Mosquito repellents are a must-have during the summer. (Invest in an effective roll-on repellent)
• T-shirts
• Shorts, skirts, and pants made from thin fabric
• Electric fan: These are incredibly popular in Korea and can be bought practically everywhere
• Swimsuit: Required if beaches or swimming pools are a part of your itinerary
• Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Light sweater

Additional Considerations:

Air conditioning in most public spaces like restaurants, shops, and subways are usually turned higher, often resulting in indoor temperatures that may seem quite chilly in sharp contrast to the outdoor heat. A light sweater is thus recommended to counter this.

With the humidity making constant sweating inevitable, carrying a small towel or handkerchief becomes beneficial for managing sweat.

Lastly, cultural disparities are present, notably around beach clothing. Koreans typically wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun protection while swimming, different from the western norms of bathing suits or bikinis. Awareness of this is essential, as it might cause some unexpected attention when following western beach fashion trends in Korea.

What To Pack for Autumn in Korea

Autumn in Korea provides a beautiful backdrop of gold and red fall leaves, and notably fewer crowds. The most favourable months to enjoy your visit are September and October as they offer mild and comfortable temperatures.

A trip to Korea during autumn, especially when leaves are in the midst of transitioning to shades of yellow and gold, paints an incredibly picturesque landscape.

1. Autumn Climate in Korea

Autumn weather in Korea ushers in a cooler and drier climate in comparison with the summer months. A pleasant warmth, coupled with sunny weather, commonly extends till October. However, November witnesses a steep drop in temperatures.

Autumn is marked by the changing colours of leaves, the onset of harvest season, and notable festivities such as Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving. Additional, Kimjang, a special autumnal event, brings families together to prepare kimchi for the subsequent year.

Seasonal Fruits: Autumn lends a sweet taste to apples and Korean pears, produces large purple grapes, roasts chestnuts, and ripens Korean gingko nuts.

Consider exploring places such as Gyeongju, Seoul, Andong Hahoe Village. These sites exhibit their unique charm during autumn. Alternatively, beaches remain warm, carrying the residual warmth from the summer season.

2. Suggested Attire for Autumn in Korea

Prepare for the autumn weather with a suitable clothing roster:

• T-shirts
• Long-sleeved tops
• Light jackets
• Warm sweaters
• Scarves and hats (particularly for later in the season)
• Jeans
• Boots or sneakers
• Warm socks

Important Recommendations:

Your attire may vary based on the time of your visit. If you plan your trip in September or early October, you might not need hats or scarves. Ultimately, the choice always depends on individual necessities and preferences. However, in case you are uncertain, remember that Korea offers a range of shopping alternatives where you can easily purchase any clothing items you may require.

Other Packing Tips

Planning for a trip can be a complex and potentially nerve-wracking process, particularly when it comes to packing. For a more elaborate and detailed guide to packing, take a look at the incredibly informative book from Lonely Planet, available here, at competitively affordable prices.

Travelling to Korea and thinking about what to pack? This comprehensive guide covers all the seasons in Korea. Now, even forgetting something isn’t a cause for concern, since Korea is home to some of the most dynamic shopping environments, particularly in cities like Seoul and Busan. These major hubs offer a wide variety of goods, ensuring you can readily replace forgotten items upon arrival.

1. Selecting the Ideal Korea Travel Bag

Choosing the appropriate luggage is crucial for a comfortable journey. Your travel bag should be versatile, lightweight, and sufficiently large to accommodate all your travel gear. If the bag is too bulky or unwieldy, it will be challenging to carry around. Opting for luggage with a warranty is highly recommended, considering that a broken suitcase can considerably dampen your travel experience. Here are some of the best luggage options for your Korean trip. Additionally, there’s an array of luggage storage options in Seoul station and other locations for your convenience.

• 2 Wheeled Rolling Luggage: This is the norm for most travellers, and a quality 2-wheeled suitcase can significantly simplify your travels. The suitcase will be particularly beneficial when navigating the Seoul subway system.
• 4 Wheel Suitcase: If you’re going for a larger and heavier suitcase, a 4-wheel option might be ideal, with the wheels evenly distributing the weight and reducing the strain on your arms and wrists.
• Day Backpack: Besides your primary luggage, a day backpack is critical for daily excursions. This should be a lightweight, foldable bag that can accommodate all your essential items for a day.

Preparing Your Home for an Extended Trip

Taking a long vacation, perhaps to South Korea or elsewhere in Asia, is an exciting prospect. However, it’s crucial to ensure your home is well-prepared to be left unattended for an extended period. By paying attention to key areas, you can avoid potential hassles and ensure your return finds your home just as you left it. The following list covers various aspects to consider when preparing your home for your extended trip.

Food and Appliances

• Empty the fridge of all perishable items that may spoil while you’re away.
• Unplug all electronic appliances to save energy and prevent potential electrical mishaps.

Pet and Plant Care

• If you have pets or plants, arrange for their care. This could be through a pet-sitter, a neighbor, or a family member.

Payments and Communications

• Pre-pay bills and rent to avoid missing any payment deadlines during your absence.
• If you have children in school, inform the school about their upcoming absence.
• Request the post office to hold your mail or ask someone to check your mailbox regularly to prevent it from overflowing.
• Set up an email autoresponder at work to inform senders of your absence and expected return.

Utilities and Security

• Switch off the air conditioning or heating to conserve energy.
• Turn off the water boiler, especially if it’s winter, to prevent potential freezing or bursting pipes.
• Secure all entrances by locking all doors and windows tightly.
• Leave a spare set of house keys with a trusted family member or friend in case of an emergency.
• For added security, keep valuables out of sight or in a secure area to avoid attracting potential burglars.

Remember, the key objective is to maximize the security and safety of your home while you’re away. This way, you can travel with peace of mind. By planning ahead and covering all these areas, you can ensure your home stays safe and secure, providing a welcoming environment to return to after your trip.

Relevant Dress Code Norms in South Korea

South Korea is a well-developed country with an open-minded society that largely welcomes different fashion sensibilities. Despite this open-mindedness, several norms do prevail that are worth heeding in order to respect local customs and avoid drawing undue attention.

Avoid Excessive Skin Exposure Above the Waist: South Koreans generally lean conservative when it comes to show skin, particularly above the waist. Exposing shoulders and chest is generally not acceptable attire in public. You’ll often see locals rocking trendy outfits, including short shorts, but their shoulders will typically be covered.

Beachwear Norms: When it comes to beach attire, the Korean dress code calls for a bit more cover than the Western counterpart. Koreans usually avoid wearing swimsuits like bikinis or swim shorts, opting instead for attire that covers more skin, especially on the upper body. By draping themselves in full outfits on the beach, you will spot people wearing casual clothing ranging from t-shirts to full-body bathing suits.

Exceptions and Modern Adaptations: Although these customs persist, social outlooks are evolving rapidly, especially amongst younger generations. These changes are most visible in Seoul and other major Korean cities, where Korean youth are breaking several traditional norms. This shift has seen the emergence of trends like shorter trousers, sleeveless tops, and bikinis, particularly at the beaches.

Final Note: While it’s important to respect the local culture, one shouldn’t feel overly restricted. Koreans are generally tolerant and understanding of foreign visitors who may not be fully aware of South Korean sartorial etiquette. Just being mindful of these conventions and dressing modestly should serve you well during your travels in South Korea.

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Planning a trip to Korea soon? Have any concerns about this Korea packing list? Or maybe there are items you think should be added? Let me know in the comments section below.