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A holiday in Krabi is the stuff of dreams for most travellers. Whether you intend to spend a week or more in the beach haven or are just stopping by for a weekend, there are certain must-haves to enjoy a hassle-free getaway in the area. From everyday essentials to tech gear, here's a comprehensive list of what to pack for your Krabi vacation.

Image via Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort

The first point to consider when packing for a trip to Krabi is the time of year. Those who are visiting the beach hub between May to October are likely to experience rainy conditions and should therefore bring clothing made from synthetic materials that will dry easily while those who are visiting during the peak tourist season must pack for summer. This means summer dresses, shorts, tank tops and T-shirts. Krabi has been a tourist Mecca for decades so there's no need to worry about bearing too much here although nudity is strictly prohibited. Don't forget to pack at least two bathing suits in case one is rendered unusable due to unforeseen circumstances. Buying swimwear in Krabi can be expensive so pack an extra just in case. Those who plan to stay at Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort or other luxury Ao Nang hotels may also want to pack some resort wear.

Tourists heading to any Thai beach capital must be wary of the harsh rays of the sun and the damage it can do to one's eyes, skin and other sensitive areas if exposed for too long. This is why it is necessary to pack a very strong suntan lotion with a high PH value for your Krabi getaway along with a pair of sunglasses. Sun hats will also come in handy while a scarf or a shawl will also prove useful when engaging in sightseeing activities and other excursions. A pair of sandals and flip-flops will suffice in terms of footwear unless one intends to go hiking, in which case, a pair of sneakers will do.

Don't forget to pack your digital camera with extra batteries and memory cards as there will be plenty to film and document in photographs during a Krabi holiday. Those who have signed up for snorkelling tours may want to bring their own mask and snorkel if they have one as finding the right fit in rental shops can be challenging. While most basic toiletries will be provided by the hotel it is necessary to bring shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and toothbrushes if you are staying in a guesthouse or a hostel.

Tourists who need to take medications regularly for chronic conditions must pack their medical needs in a separate water-proof bag similar to the toiletry container. Remember to carry the prescriptions for the medications in your possession in case you run out or need to authenticate why certain drugs are in your possession.

While most beachgoers may not be aware of it, Krabi is home to countless temples and places of worship. These are some of the best cultural highlights in Thailand and those who intend to visit these sacred spaces must pack conservative clothing items in light shades. Visitors will be denied access to local temples if they are immodestly attired or made to wear white sarongs provided by the temple authorities.

A beach holiday is a perfect time to catch up on your reading and watch a few favourite films so don't forget to pack some beach reads and fill a hard drive with a few blockbusters. A torch or flashlight will come in handy during late nights out while mosquito repellent is equally essential.

With so many outdoor attractions enticing visitors to this charming province of Krabi on the west coast of southern Thailand, a little understanding of the climatic and weather patterns stands you in good stead. Weather forecasts may sound all gloom and doom during some periods when you read online, however, it does not mean rains will pour the whole day. With over 120 offshore islands to explore during your visit take note of the dry and wet periods to plan your visit.

Image via Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort

With temperatures ranging from 27C to 36C, the months of April and May are considered the hottest months in Krabi. Despite being hot and humid, short and heavy thundershowers happen during this period with strong winds which bring welcome relief to visitors at Ao Nang beach hotels.

With the glorious sunshine soaking the beaches and putting a welcome tan on visitors from April, towards mid-April between 13-15 April is the Thai New Year (Songkran) a huge countrywide festival involving many activities. The most interesting one with tourists getting involved is the shooting of water at anyone, it is not merely for fun, it has a deep meaning of washing away any bad luck as the new year dawns. A great experience if you happen to be in Krabi.

By June and July, the strong winds die down, skies become clearer. By July and August Krabi is cooler and many favourite attractions are not crowded, the locals go about happily and everything is less pricey during this period.

The best time to visit Krabi which is also the high or peak season is November to March. The weather is mild at 28C with lovely cool breezes keeping everyone and everything cooler with lots of visitors arriving at hotels such as Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.

The best months in this season are December and January with crowds of people flocking to Krabi. The rates of food and lodging go up during this peak period as do flights to Krabi and back as locals want to optimize their gains during these peak months.

However, if your wish is to savour the beaches and do a bit of island hopping this is a perfect time to savour all the beauty and make the most of your days here.

A couple of rainy days may occur here and there however most days remain dry making island hopping, lounging by the beach, experiencing the majestic limestone cliffs or picnics by the beach a favourite pass time of visitors.

Signs of umbrellas and raincoats become noticeable from September to October heralding frequent showers whilst the period commencing June to October is the wet season. Water sports and other outdoor activities come to a halt.

For those brave visitors who want to experience this period in Krabi the hotels may offer many attractive deals, outdoor restaurants and street food will be more reasonable, and beaches gloriously uncrowded offering a new relaxed atmosphere all around. The locals will be friendlier as the crowds are less, shopping will be cheaper and the greenery will be clean and sparkling.

Since crowds are remarkably less, this is also an ideal time for couples or families with children to enjoy quality time together in privacy and at very affordable rates. They can still have activities, do shopping and share special moments with more space and relaxation.

If you book during this period, be positive-minded and enjoy available attractions at a lower rate, there can also be a couple of sunny days to make a few beach visits enjoyable still.

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