The Countdown to Songkran 2025 is On!

Thailand's biggest festival—the epic water fight known as Songkran—is just around the corner! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned splash veteran, this newsletter will help you celebrate responsibly while looking cool and staying safe.

How to Celebrate Songkran Responsibly

Songkran is more than just a water fight—it's a cultural celebration with deep roots in Thai tradition. Here’s how to enjoy it while being mindful of safety, the environment, and local customs.

♻️ Be Eco-Friendly: Reduce Waste & Water Usage

• Use a water gun instead of a bucket – Or spray bottles instead of buckets to conserve water while still joining the fun.

• Avoid chemical dyes & powders – Some people use colored talcum, but it can irritate skin and pollute water. Stick to natural clay (din sor pong) if you want to join the traditional paste-smearing ritual.

• Recyclable Party Gear – If using containers, select biodegradable or recyclable alternatives

• Say NO to plastic bags – Throwing water-filled plastic bags is dangerous and creates unnecessary waste.

• Clean up after yourself – Streets get flooded with trash after Songkran. Carry a small bag for your waste.

🚨 Safety First: Protect Yourself & Others

• Beware of drunk drivers – Songkran has one of the highest road accident rates in Thailand. Avoid riding motorbikes, and be extra cautious when crossing streets.

• Take only essentials – Leave unnecessary items at home to minimize loss risk

• Waterproof your valuables – Use a dry bag or waterproof phone case to protect cash, cards, and electronics.

• Hydrate, but don’t overdo alcohol – The sun + beer = dehydration and heatstroke. Alternate with water!

• Watch out for ice-cold water – Some people throw iced water, which can be a shock to the system.

🙏 Respect Local Culture & People

• Don’t splash unwilling participants – Avoid soaking monks, elderly people, babies, or those in work uniforms.

• Temples are for blessings, not water fights – Keep the wild splashing to the streets.

• Dress modestly near religious sites – If visiting temples, cover shoulders and knees.

👗🎒 Songkran Fashion & Must-Have Gear

You will get soaked—so dress smart! Here’s your ultimate survival checklist for staying comfortable, stylish, and protected.

👕 What to Wear

✔ Quick-dry clothing – Lightweight polyester or nylon fabrics dry fast and won’t cling.
✔ Bright, dark, or patterned shirts – White turns see-through when wet, and black is considered unlucky during Songkran.
✔ Comfortable shorts or a swimsuit – You’ll be drenched all day, so dress like you’re going to the beach!
✔ Secure sandals or water shoes – Flip-flops are great, but choose ones that won’t slip off easily.

🚫 What NOT to Wear

❌ Jeans or heavy fabrics – They absorb water and become uncomfortably heavy.
❌ Expensive sneakers – They’ll get ruined! Stick to waterproof footwear.
❌ Too much jewelry – It can get lost or damaged in the chaos.

🎒 Essential Survival Gear

🔹 Waterproof phone case – A must unless you want a dead phone.
🔹 Dry bag or ziplock bags – For wallets, keys, and other valuables.
🔹 Sunglasses or goggles – Protect your eyes from water guns and powder.
🔹 High-SPF waterproof sunscreen – The Thai sun is brutal in April!
🔹 A small towel or sarong – For quick dry-offs between water fights.
🔹 A refillable water bottle – Stay hydrated without adding plastic waste.

🔫 Water Fight Supplies

• Water gun? – If you want to join the battle, buy a super soaker locally (Khao San Road has plenty!).

• A smile & playful attitude – Songkran is about joy, so embrace the fun!

• Don’t take it personally

Final Tips for an Epic (and Safe) Songkran

• Start early – The biggest water fights happen from 12 PM - 6 PM.

• Plan a meet-up spot – Crowds get huge, and phones might not work when wet.

• Know when to take a break – Find a café or dry zone if you need a rest.

P.S. Missed our guide on Best Songkran Celebrations in Thailand 2025?

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.