Navigating the Wardrobe: What to Bring When Moving to Thailand as an Expatriate
For retired expatriates like myself, moving to a foreign land can present a myriad of challenges, one of which is the wardrobe. Living in Thailand for the past five years, I've had plenty of time to adapt to the local fashion scene and the climate. In this article, I'll share some valuable insights on what to bring and what to leave behind when moving to this tropical paradise.
Size Matters, but So Does the Climate
Recent studies show that an expatriate living in Thailand should generally pack one size larger than they usually do in their home country. This rule is particularly important for those who are used to a more temperate climate. For instance, I still have a pair of dress shoes from my home country, but they haven't seen much action in these tropical temperatures.
High humidity and hot weather mean that even my wool socks, which I thought were indispensable, went unused. I eventually gave away my entire pair of blue jeans because they simply didn't fit the climate. You do not need to bring any winter clothes, as temperatures rarely drop below 7°C. While places like Doi Inthanon can get as cold as 7°C in January or December, these are rare occurrences. More commonly, you might experience temperatures of around 15°C for a week or so during the "winter" months. However, the sun's intensity should not be underestimated, making lightweight, breathable clothing essential.
Storage and Maintenance of Clothing
Storing clothing in a humid environment can pose a significant challenge. It's crucial to frequently check for signs of mildew in materials that are difficult to dry fully. Proper storage techniques and the use of dehumidifiers can help in maintaining the quality of your clothes.
For those who cannot easily adjust, there are plenty of options for tailors and dressmakers in Bangkok. My wife and I regularly purchase off-the-shelf (OTS) and bespoke clothing to suit our needs. We've found this to be a practical solution for finding customized garments that fit our specific requirements.
Adapting to the Local Market
The local market offers a wide variety of goods that cater to expatriates. After about a year of living in Thailand, you'll either find new products to use or discover how to buy your regular preferred products. This adaptability is key to living comfortably in a new environment.
For the clothing preferences of expatriates, there are a few key points to consider. If you're small, clothing might not be a significant issue. However, if you're big, finding items that fit can be challenging. Large T-shirts are generally not a problem, but dress shirts and pants can be more difficult. I ended up settling on cargo shorts with a drawstring, but the material was of low quality. If you value a well-dressed appearance, bringing clothing from home is recommended.
Immigrants and expatriates often face additional challenges. The term "expatriate" is sometimes used to make certain immigrants feel superior to their hosts. This can complicate the integration process and add to the adjustment period.
In summary, while moving to Thailand offers unique opportunities, the wardrobe is one area where careful planning and understanding of the local climate are crucial. By packing smartly and being flexible, you can ensure that your wardrobe is both functional and comfortable in this beautiful tropical destination.