Laos Pre-Trip Preparation

Traveling with Laos Travel Packages ensures that your tickets, accommodation, transportation, and meals are all taken care of. However, to ensure that your holiday in Laos is pleasant, safe, and enjoyable, there are a few things you'll need to prepare on your own.

Preparation for a Laos Trip

To ensure a joyful and smooth trip to Laos, it’s essential to prepare ahead of time:

1. Visa and Passport: Ensure your Laos visa is ready before departure. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the end date of your trip. 

2. Travel Guide: Familiarize yourself with Laos by reading the Laos Travel Guide. This will give you a general understanding of the country.

3. Travel Itinerary: Review your travel itinerary carefully and clarify any questions with your travel agent. If issues arise while traveling, contact your local manager for assistance.

4. Health Information: Inform your travel agent of any health conditions or concerns so they can adjust your itinerary if needed. 

5. Currency: Check that your credit card will work in Laos. Alternatively, visit a bank to exchange your money into kip (Lao currency).

6. Cell Phone Coverage: Contact your cell phone provider to arrange an international data plan if you need coverage during your trip.

7. Weather Check: Look up the weather forecast to pack appropriate clothing for your trip.

8. Flight Details: Double-check your departure flight details and set an alarm to ensure you don’t miss it.

9. Learn Basic Phrases: Before you leave, learn some essential Lao phrases such as "Hello" (Sa-bai Dee) and "Thank you" (Khawp Jai).

With these preparations, you'll be set for a memorable and enjoyable experience in Laos.

What to bring along for your trip to Laos?

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Laos, consider bringing the following items:

1. Personal Papers: Carry essential documents such as your passport, visa, travel insurance certificate, air tickets, and tour voucher. It’s highly recommended to make paper copies of your passport and driver's license in case you need to replace a lost passport.

2. Money: Bring a mix of payment options including credit and debit cards, traveler’s cheques, and cash in US Dollars or Thai Baht. ATMs can be scarce in places like Huay Xai, so also carry some Laos kip currency. A money pouch can help keep your cash and cards secure.

3. Entertainment: Pack some games or activities for long bus rides or evenings with locals and fellow travelers.

4. Camera Equipment: Don’t forget your camera, along with extra batteries and memory cards to capture your memories.

5. Cell Phone Accessories: Bring your cell phone, charger, and a portable power bank to stay connected.

6. Medication: Carry any required medication along with a doctor’s letter if it’s prescription medicine. 

7. Dry Pack: If you plan on engaging in water-based activities such as river tubing, kayaking, or rafting, a dry pack will help keep your belongings safe and dry.

8. Laptop Charger: If you’re bringing a laptop, make sure to include its charger.

9. First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit for outdoor activities to address minor injuries or issues that may arise.

With these items, you'll be well-prepared for your adventure in Laos.

What clothes/items to bring along for Laos trip?

To stay comfortable and protected during your trip to Laos, pack the following items:

1. Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and mosquito spray to shield yourself from the sun and insects.

2. Insect Repellent: Pack insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs.

3. Footwear: Comfortable sandals or shoes are essential. Consider sandals with rugged soles for hiking and good walking boots with ankle support. Also, include a comfortable pair of shoes for everyday wear.

4. Clothing: Choose lightweight, light-colored clothing to help reflect the sun and stay cool. Include lightweight and loose-fitting garments made of cotton or linen to manage the humidity.

5. Temple Attire: Pack clothes appropriate for visiting temples, such as long pants or skirts and long-sleeved tops, to show respect at religious sites.

With these essentials, you'll be well-prepared for the climate and activities during your trip to Laos.