Get Ready for Songkran: 7 Things You Must Prepare Before the Festival Begins

Songkran, Thailand’s famous New Year water festival, transforms streets across the country into joyous water battlegrounds each April. While it might seem like simple fun—and it certainly is fun—there’s more to preparing for this unique cultural celebration than you might expect. Whether you’re planning to visit Thailand specifically for Songkran or you’ve just discovered your trip coincides with this wet and wild festival, proper preparation will help you have the best possible experience.

As someone who has participated in numerous Songkran celebrations across Thailand, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) what makes for a successful festival experience. Here are seven essential preparations to make before joining in this unforgettable Thai tradition.

1. Waterproof Your Valuables (and Your Expectations)

When Thais say you’ll get wet during Songkran, they mean COMPLETELY wet. There’s no such thing as being a casual observer who stays dry, especially in popular tourist areas and celebration hotspots. Once you step outside during the festival, consider yourself a willing participant in the world’s biggest water fight.

Essential Preparations:

Waterproof Phone Protection: This is absolutely non-negotiable. Options include:

• Dedicated waterproof phone cases with lanyards (available at any mall or market in Thailand for 100-300 baht)
• Heavy-duty zip-lock bags (bring several as backups)
• Waterproof pouches that can be worn around your neck or waist

Money Protection: Cash is still king in many parts of Thailand, especially during Songkran when small vendors are everywhere.

• Bring only what you need for the day in small denominations
• Use a waterproof money belt or pouch
• Consider keeping a “decoy” wallet with just a small amount of cash for easy access

Document Security:

• Leave your passport in your hotel safe
• Carry only a photocopy of your passport’s ID page and visa/entry stamp
• Consider leaving credit cards behind unless absolutely necessary

Set Realistic Expectations:

• Accept that you’ll be completely soaked within minutes of stepping outside
• Understand that traffic will be chaotic and travel times will increase dramatically
• Recognize that some businesses may be closed or operating on reduced hours

2. Assemble Your Songkran Battle Gear

The right equipment makes all the difference between being an easy target and giving as good as you get during water fights. While you can certainly purchase supplies in Thailand, popular items sell out quickly as the festival approaches.

Essential Preparations:

Water Weapons:

• Water guns range from small pistols to massive backpack-fed “super soakers” (prices range from 100-1,000+ baht depending on size and quality)
• Traditional water bowls (khan) for a more authentic experience
• Buckets for the truly committed water warriors

Protective Eyewear:

• Waterproof goggles or sunglasses (especially important if you wear contact lenses)
• Secure straps to keep them in place during enthusiastic water battles

Appropriate Clothing:

• Quick-drying fabrics that won’t become heavy or uncomfortable when wet
• Modest attire (despite the water fight atmosphere, Thailand remains a conservative culture)
• Bright colors or traditional Thai floral shirts (adds to the festive atmosphere)
• Secure footwear with good traction—flip-flops often get lost in crowds

Hat or Bandana:

• Protects your head from the intense April sun when wet
• Prevents water and powder from getting in your eyes
• Adds to your festival look

3. Plan Your Health and Safety Strategy

Songkran coincides with Thailand’s hottest month, and the combination of crowds, sun exposure, and constant water can create unique health challenges.

Essential Preparations:

Sun Protection:

• Waterproof sunscreen with minimum SPF 50 (reapply frequently as it will wash off)
• UV-protective clothing when possible
• Plan for regular breaks in shaded areas

Hydration Plan:

• Carry a refillable water bottle (ironically, dehydration is common during water festivals)
• Set hydration reminders on your phone
• Consider electrolyte supplements for extended participation

Eye Protection:

• Besides water, some celebrants apply powder paste to faces as a blessing
• Those with sensitive eyes should keep eye drops handy
• Consider wearing glasses instead of contact lenses

Basic First Aid:

• Waterproof bandages for minor cuts or blisters
• Antiseptic wipes (water used in fights isn’t always clean)
• Any personal medications in waterproof containers

Emergency Contacts:

• Save local emergency numbers in your phone
• Share your daily plans with someone not participating
• Know basic Thai phrases for emergencies

4. Research Location-Specific Celebrations

Songkran varies dramatically depending on where you experience it. Different cities and even neighborhoods within cities have their own traditions, intensity levels, and special events.

Essential Research:

Popular Songkran Locations:

• Bangkok: Khao San Road for the most intense tourist-oriented water fights; Silom for a mix of locals and tourists
• Chiang Mai: Famous for its moat-centered celebrations and traditional parades
• Phuket: Patong Beach area combines water fights with beach parties
• Ayutthaya: More traditional celebrations with beautiful elephant ceremonies
• Smaller Towns: Often feature more authentic cultural elements with less chaotic water fights

Event Schedules:

• Research official parades and ceremonies (usually in the mornings)
• Identify temple activities for cultural experiences
• Check timing for special events like beauty pageants or concerts

Water Fight Intensity Map:

• Tourist areas typically have the most intense water battles
• Residential neighborhoods often have gentler, more family-focused celebrations
• Some areas designate “dry zones” for those wanting to observe traditional aspects without getting soaked

Transportation Planning:

• Many roads close during festival hours
• Public transportation runs on reduced schedules
• Motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks charge premium rates

5. Learn the Cultural Significance and Proper Etiquette

While the water fights get all the attention in travel blogs, Songkran is fundamentally a spiritual and cultural celebration with deep meaning for Thai people.

Essential Cultural Knowledge:

Traditional Activities:

• Water was traditionally poured gently over elders’ hands as a sign of respect and blessing
• Buddha images are ceremonially bathed in temples
• Merit-making activities increase during this period
• Many people visit their hometowns to be with family

Respectful Participation:

• Visit a temple early in the festival to observe or participate in traditional ceremonies
• When encountering elderly people, consider asking permission before splashing them
• Understand that gentle pouring of water on shoulders can be a blessing, not just play
• Remove shoes when entering temples or homes, even during festivities

Inappropriate Behaviors:

• Targeting monks, pregnant women, or elderly people with water (unless they clearly want to participate)
• Using ice water (painfully cold) or dirty water
• Excessive drinking (while parties happen, public drunkenness is frowned upon)
• Revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples

6. Create a Communication and Meeting Plan

During Songkran, normal communication becomes challenging. Wet phones, crowded networks, and separated groups can create frustrating situations.

Essential Planning:

Meeting Points:

• Establish specific meeting locations and times in advance
• Choose distinctive landmarks that will be visible despite crowds
• Have backup meeting points in case primary locations are inaccessible

Communication Backup:

• Take photos of your hotel/accommodation details to show drivers
• Write down important phone numbers on waterproof paper as backup
• Consider simple waterproof two-way radios for group activities
• Download offline maps for your area

Group Strategy:

• Establish a buddy system if traveling with others
• Agree on check-in times if separating
• Create a plan for what to do if someone gets separated
• Identify meetup spots for lunch and end-of-day gathering

7. Prepare Your Post-Songkran Recovery Kit

After hours of water fights in the hot sun, you’ll need specific supplies to recover comfortably.

Essential Recovery Items:

Skin Care:

• Aloe vera gel for sun-exposed skin
• Moisturizer (the combination of sun, water, and powder can dry skin)
• Gentle face wash to remove powder and sunscreen

Clothing Management:

• Plastic bags for wet clothes
• Quick-dry towels that pack easily
• Change of dry clothes if staying out all day
• Laundry plans (services may be backed up during the festival)

Physical Recovery:

• Electrolyte drinks to rehydrate
• Pain relievers for sun headaches or muscle soreness
• Eye drops for irritated eyes
• Earplugs for better sleep after noisy celebrations

Digital Recovery:

• Rice or silica gel packets for drying out electronics
• Backup power banks (batteries drain quickly with wet hands and constant photos)
• Cloud backup for photos in case your phone doesn’t survive

Tips for Songkran Success

Beyond the essential preparations above, these additional tips will help you make the most of this unique cultural experience:

• Attitude is everything: Embrace getting wet and approach the festival with good humor and patience
• Pace yourself: The festival lasts multiple days; don’t exhaust yourself on day one
• Balance cultural and water fight experiences: Make time for both traditional ceremonies and playful water battles
• Capture memories strategically: Plan specific times for photos rather than risking your camera all day
• Support local vendors: Festival food stalls and small businesses rely on this busy period
• Learn key Thai phrases: Simple greetings and “Happy New Year” (Sawadee Pee Mai) in Thai go a long way
• Respect closure notices: Some businesses place Buddha images or signs indicating they don’t want to be splashed

Songkran is a magical time to experience Thailand at its most joyful and playful. The festival represents not just a new year celebration but also the washing away of misfortunes and a fresh, clean start. With proper preparation, you can fully immerse yourself in this unique cultural tradition while staying safe, respectful, and comfortable.

Whether you’re planning to battle with a super soaker on Khao San Road or participate in traditional ceremonies in a smaller community, the memories you make during Songkran will likely become some of your most treasured travel experiences.

Have you experienced Songkran before? Share your additional tips or questions in the comments below!