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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Gang Won Do, South Korea

Seasonal Attire

Spring (March-May): Light jackets, sweaters, Long-sleeved shirts. Layers adapt to fluctuating temperatures. Mornings and evenings are cool, midday mild. A Packable rain jacket for occasional showers. Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration.

Summer June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton/linen). Shorts, t-shirts, dresses.
  • An Umbrella or light rain jacket for monsoon season.
  • Light cardigan for Sun protection and air-conditioned interiors.

Cooler Weather Clothing

Autumn (September-November): Medium-weight jackets, sweaters, jeans or trousers. Layers remain useful as temperatures drop in late autumn. A slightly warmer jacket for evening strolls. Light thermal underwear for late autumn, especially if visiting mountainous areas for foliage.

Winter December-February

Footwear Recommendations

General Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes are paramount. You will walk a lot exploring city streets, markets, and attractions.

Wear your most comfortable pair.

Beach & Summer

Sandals or flip-flops for easy beach access and warm weather. Also pack Swimwear.

Quick-dry for convenience.

Hiking & Winter

Sturdy hiking boots for mountain trails. Waterproof hiking boots for winter/snow.

Good grip for varied terrain.

Essential Documents

Useful Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and accessible is a smart part of travel planning. These items are necessary for entry and for various activities during your trip.

  • Passport and visa documentation (or K-ETA approval): Valid for at least six months.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Physical and digital copies.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If renting a car, along with home country license.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: For personal medical reference.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, accommodation, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Local numbers, embassy, personal contacts.
  • Student/senior/press IDs: For potential discounts.
  • Prescription medications with documentation, especially for controlled substances.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

South Korea uses Type F (Schuko) and Type C (Europlug) outlets. The voltage is 220V at 60Hz. A Universal travel adapter with surge protection is recommended. If your devices are not dual voltage, a Voltage converter may be necessary.

Mobile Phone & Internet

Photography & Navigation

Bring your preferred camera gear. Consider a Waterproof phone pouch for beach activities. A Small tripod is useful for sunrise photography at Jeongdongjin. Check B&H Photo for gear.

Recommended Apps

  • Naver Map (네이버 지도) or KakaoMap (카카오맵): Essential for navigation in South Korea.
  • Papago (Naver Papago): An excellent Translation app for Korean.
  • Kakao T (카카오T): Dominant ride-sharing app.

Data Backup & Security

Data Backup

Use cloud storage (Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox) or an External hard drive to back up photos and documents regularly.

Digital Security

Consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN when using public Wi-Fi.

Physical Security

A Money belt or RFID Blocking Wallet for valuables. A Small padlock for hostel lockers.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A small personal health kit addresses minor issues quickly. This helps you stay well during your trip.

Essential Kit Contents

Protection & Hygiene

Consider bringing personal hygiene essentials that may be difficult to find locally, or specific brands you prefer.

Climate-Specific Protection

Motion Sickness Considerations

Preventing Discomfort

  • Over-the-counter motion sickness remedies if prone to nausea.
  • Consider sitting near the front of buses on winding roads.
  • Look out the window at the horizon when traveling.

General Wellness

  • Hand sanitizer for hygiene on the go.
  • Consider a travel pillow for comfort on long journeys.
  • An extra KF94 mask for air quality or illness prevention.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

Pack gear tailored to your planned adventures. For hiking in nearby mountains, these items are helpful.

Beach & Cycling Gear

For beach activities or cycling around Gyeongpo Lake, specific items enhance your experience.

  • Standard swimwear for beaches.
  • A Quick-dry towel.
  • Beach mat or light cover-up.
  • Comfortable cycling shorts for extensive rides.

Rental vs. Bring

Some items are easily rented locally, saving luggage space.

  • Umbrellas and beach accessories for rent at major beaches.
  • Excellent quality bicycles for rent around Gyeongpo Lake and Anmok Coffee Street.
  • Most common toiletries are readily available.
  • Specific dietary snacks or products if you have very particular dietary restrictions.

Cultural Considerations

Dress Code & Modesty

  • South Korea has a modern dress code.
  • Strict modesty requirements for tourists are generally absent.
  • For most public settings, standard Western casual wear is acceptable.
  • When visiting temples or religious sites, modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) shows respect.

Special Event Attire

  • Formal attire is not typically necessary for general tourist activities.
  • If attending a specific performance or high-end dining, check the venue's dress code.
  • No specific items are unique to Gangneung that necessitate bringing from home. Local shops usually stock what is needed.
  • Consider a small gift from your home country if meeting locals or staying in a homestay.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Convenience

These items improve comfort, security, and general convenience during your trip.

Travel Comfort

Eco-Friendly & Practical Items

Reducing plastic waste and having practical items on hand can make a positive impact on your trip.

Reusable Solutions

Packing Pro Tips

Roll Your Clothes

Saves space and reduces wrinkles.

Heavier Items Near Wheels

For easier suitcase maneuvering.

Carry Bottled Water

While tap water is potable, purchase Bottled water for peace of mind.

Bring Your Own Cup

Some cafes offer discounts for using your own reusable cup.

Other Useful Items

General Essentials

  • Small flashlight or headlamp (for power outages or poorly lit areas).
  • Small notebook and pen for jotting notes or directions.
  • Small denomination local currency for quick purchases.

Personal Preferences

  • Extra camera batteries and memory cards.
  • Headphones for entertainment on transit.
  • Any personal comfort items that make travel easier.

Final Packing Reminder

Pack light but smart. Consider multipurpose items to save space. A well-packed bag makes for a smoother, more enjoyable journey.

Remember to check current baggage restrictions for your airline before you fly.