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What to Pack for Seoul

What to Pack for Seoul

Seoul South Korea Travel Guide

Spring & Summer Attire

Seoul's distinct four seasons mean your wardrobe needs to change significantly depending on your travel dates.

Clothing Recommendations

  • Spring (March-May): Layers, light jackets, cardigans, Long-sleeved shirts, Scarf for cooler evenings.
  • Summer (June-August): Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen), shorts, t-shirts, dresses.
  • Light Waterproof jacket or umbrella for monsoon rains. Sandals for summer.

Autumn & Winter Wardrobe

Prepare for cooler temperatures and potential cold snaps during these seasons.

Items to Pack

  • Autumn (September-November): Sweaters, light to medium-weight jackets, long pants, layers.
  • Winter (December-February): Heavy Winter coat, thermal layers, sweaters, Scarves, Gloves, hats.
  • Warm pants (jeans or insulated trousers).

Footwear Essentials

Comfort First

Bring Comfortable walking shoes. Seoul involves considerable walking and public transport use.

Daily exploration

Seasonal Adaptations

Waterproof shoes are advisable for the summer monsoon season. Warmer, insulated, and Waterproof boots for winter.

Monsoon ready

Activity-Specific

For hiking, pack sturdy Walking shoes or hiking boots.

Mountain tracks

Essential Documents for Your Journey

Critical Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents potential travel problems.

  • Carry your valid passport (6 months validity beyond stay) and K-ETA approval or physical visa.
  • Travel insurance policy number, emergency contact details, and coverage information.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if you're going to drive, alongside your domestic driver's license.
  • Vaccination records and physician's note for any prescribed drugs.
  • Printed and digital copies of flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy, area emergency contacts).
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (e.g., ISIC card).
  • Keep printed and digital copies of documents stored separately from originals.

Stay Connected: Tech & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are powered and connected throughout your trip.

Essentials

Capture & Secure

Record your memories and safeguard your digital presence.

Camera & Data

Recommended Apps for Seoul

Navigation

Naver Map (Naver 지도) or KakaoMap (카카오맵) are more accurate for Korean addresses and public transport than Google Maps.

Translation & Transport

Papago (Naver's translator) exceptionally for Korean-English. Subway Korea, KakaoMetro, or KakaoBus for transit.

Local Services

Kakao T for ride-sharing/taxis. Coupang Eats or Baemin for food delivery. Official VisitKorea app for general information.

Health & Wellness on the Go

Personal First Aid Kit

Prepare a personal health kit to handle minor ailments along with certain local conditions.

Essential Contents

  • Standard First aid kit with Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Anti-diarrhea medication.
  • Face masks (KF94 or N95) for high air pollution days, especially in spring and winter.
  • Sufficient supply of all prescription medications in original packaging, with a doctor's note (English).

Common Remedies & Protection

Be ready for common travel health issues and environmental factors.

Preparedness

  • Over-the-counter remedies for cold/flu, allergies, stomach issues, and motion sickness.
  • Insect repellent for summer, especially near parks or Han River.
  • Sunscreen, hat, and Sunglasses for all seasons, as sun can be strong.

Specialized Health Considerations

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies for bus travel or boat trips on the Hangang River.
  • Useful for long international flights.
  • Altitude sickness is generally not a concern in Seoul itself.

Personal Hygiene

  • Most common hygiene products are readily available and affordable.
  • Bring specific brands you prefer if they are hard to find elsewhere.
  • Consider eco-friendly alternatives if they are not easily found locally.

Gear for Your Seoul Adventures

Hiking Essentials

If you plan to hike Bukhansan or other mountains.

  • Appropriate footwear (hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes).
  • Light layers for temperature changes.
  • Small backpack with water and snacks.
  • Personal first aid kit.

Winter Sports Gear

For skiing or snowboarding near Seoul.

  • Equipment can be rented at vacation spots.
  • Bring personal goggles, gloves, and Base layers.
  • Warm, waterproof outerwear.
  • Thermal socks.

Capture Your Moments

Photography gear for photographers.

  • Specialized camera equipment.
  • Extra batteries and memory cards.
  • Lens cleaning kit.
  • Small, protective camera bag.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Items to Rent in Seoul

  • Ski/snowboard equipment (available at resorts).
  • Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for palace visits.
  • Bicycles (Ttareungi, Seoul's public bike-sharing).
  • Portable Wi-Fi device ("Egg").

Items to Bring From Home

  • Personal hiking boots (if you prefer a specific fit).
  • Specialized photography gear.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Air pollution mask (KF94 or N95).

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small additions often a big difference in comfort and security.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Eco-Friendly & Local Items

Contribute to sustainable travel and be prepared for local refinements.

Sustainable Travel Items

  • Reusable water bottle (many public water fountains).
  • Reusable shopping bag (stores charge for plastic).
  • Reusable utensils if you would rather minimize single-use plastics.
  • Air pollution mask (KF94 or N95) for fine dust days.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill at public fountains.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid plastic bag fees.

Reusable Utensils

Reduce plastic waste.

Air Pollution Mask

KF94 or N95 for fine dust.

Destination-Specific Items

Unique Seoul Needs

Items to Consider Bringing

  • Specific brands of toiletries if you prefer, though most are available locally.
  • Specialized dietary snacks if difficult to find.
  • Particular medication not available over-the-counter in Korea.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light, breathable layers during spring and autumn. Bring a dense coat for winter and waterproof gear for summer.

Always carry a battery pack for your devices.