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Where to Stay in Ko Tao

Where to Stay in Ko Tao

Ko Tao Lower Southern Gulf, Thailand Travel Guide

Activity-Specific Equipment

Gear for Activities

  • Snorkel/Dive Gear

    Bring a quality snorkel mask and fins for comfort. Dive shops rent all other gear, including wetsuits, BCDs, regulators, and tanks.

  • Hiking Footwear

    Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking sandals are suitable. Island trails can be rocky and uneven.

  • Beach Essentials

    Pack a beach towel. A quick-dry microfiber towel is ideal; it is lightweight and dries rapidly.

  • Water Protection

    A waterproof dry bag protects electronics on boat trips. An underwater camera or waterproof phone pouch captures marine life.

Rent vs. Bring

  • Scuba Gear Rental

    BCDs, regulators, tanks, and weights are typically rented from dive shops. These need proper maintenance.

  • Scooter Rentals

    Scooters are readily available for rent across the island. Renting locally removes the need to transport your own.

  • Personal Snorkel Mask

    Bringing your own mask often fits better and feels more hygienic.

  • Dry Bag

    A dry bag proves useful for boat trips. It keeps electronics and valuables safe from splashes.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

These items make for general comfort and security, and promote responsible travel.

Comfort for Travel

Travel Comfort
  • Neck pillow
  • Eye mask
  • Earplugs
  • Light blanket
Less Essential
  • Heavy blankets
  • Large pillows
  • Bulky travel accessories
  • Unnecessary electronics

Security Measures

Valuables Protection
  • Small padlock
  • Money belt
  • RFID blocking wallet
  • Photocopies of documents
Avoidable Risks
  • Open handbags
  • Wallet in back pocket
  • Leaving valuables unattended
  • Displaying large amounts of cash

Responsible Travel

Eco-Friendly Choices
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Foldable shopping bag
  • Reusable utensil set
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
Environmental Impact
  • Single-use plastics
  • Disposable cutlery
  • Non-reef-safe sunscreen
  • Excessive packaging

Region-Specific Items

Water Protection

A waterproof phone pouch or dry bag is highly recommended for Ko Tao. It guards your phone, wallet, and other items from water.

Travel Light

Pack light. You find most basic items on Ko Tao if you forget something. Lightweight luggage makes island transfers easier.

Items to Consider Bringing

These items contribute to an enjoyable experience and address common travel needs.

Medical & Health

  • Prescription medications
  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes)
  • Insect repellent
  • After-sun lotion

Electronics & Chargers

  • Power bank
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Phone charger
  • Headphones

Local Availability

Readily Available
  • Basic toiletries
  • Snacks
  • Water
  • Clothing (basic)
Limited or Expensive
  • Specific prescription medications
  • High-quality reef-safe sunscreen
  • Specialty toiletries
  • Certain brands

Departure Day Notes

Final Checks

Confirm all important documents are secure before leaving your accommodation.

Luggage Comfort

Your luggage should be easy to handle for ferry transfers.

Stay Hydrated

Carry a reusable water bottle for your journey.

Essential Island Prep

Preparation for island conditions and activities makes your visit enjoyable.

Water Activities

Snorkeling Gear

Bring your own comfortable mask and fins. Dive shops rent all other equipment like wetsuits and regulators.

  • Better fit
  • Hygiene
  • Personal comfort
  • Cost-saving over multiple rentals
Underwater Photography

An underwater camera or waterproof phone pouch allows you to capture marine life.

  • Capture memories
  • Protect electronics
  • Share experiences
  • Durable for water adventures

Land Exploration

Hiking Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking sandals are suitable. Trails can be rocky and uneven.

  • Good grip
  • Ankle support
  • Breathable material
  • Quick-drying
Navigation & Safety

Download offline maps of the island. Be aware of scooter traffic and steep roads when walking.

  • Offline maps
  • Flashlight for evenings
  • Basic first aid
  • Emergency contacts

Health & Well-being

  • Reef-safe sunscreen

    Protect marine life and your skin.

  • Insect repellent

    Guard against bites, especially in the evenings.

  • Hand sanitizer

    For hygiene on the go, especially with street food.

  • Small first-aid kit

    For minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters.

Connectivity

  • Local SIM card

    Cheap data for navigation and communication.

  • Portable Wi-Fi hotspot

    For group connectivity or reliable internet.

  • Power bank

    Charge your devices on the go.

  • Universal adapter

    Power up devices from any outlet.

Rental Considerations

Scooter Rentals

Scooters are available but exercise caution. Take photos of existing damage before renting.

  • Check brakes
  • Test lights
  • Inspect tires
  • Document damage
Insurance

Confirm your travel insurance covers scooter accidents if you plan to ride.

  • Check policy details
  • Medical coverage
  • Theft protection
  • Liability coverage

Financial Prep

Local Currency

Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. ATMs are available, but cash rules for small purchases.

Card Usage

Credit cards are accepted at larger resorts and dive shops, less so at street stalls.

Budgeting

Ko Tao can be budget-friendly, especially for food and accommodation.