Packing for South Korea isn’t one-size-fits-all. You’ve got stylish city cafés in Seoul, beach days in Busan, mountain hikes, countryside day trips.
And let’s not forget the underground shopping malls that will tempt you to overpack on the way home.
I’m a light packer (20L backpack and a carry-on—even for long trips), so I’ve learned how to pack smart.
I do laundry on the road, leave space for spontaneous finds, and focus on versatile pieces that work across seasons and settings.
Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, braving a sticky summer, or bundling up for a winter festival, I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll break it all down by travel style and seasonal needs—so you’ll know exactly what to bring, what you can buy locally, and what you’ll wish you’d left behind.
Essential Travel Documents & Cards
Before you even think about outfits or toiletries, make sure you’ve packed the essentials.
These are your non-negotiables: a valid passport with at least six months remaining from your arrival date.
While South Korea may allow entry with less, some airlines won’t let you board if your passport is close to expiring, so it’s best not to cut it close.
Depending on your nationality, you’ll also need either a K-ETA or a tourist visa to enter. (Double-check your entry requirements before flying—this one’s easy to overlook!)
Bring at least one debit or credit card that works internationally. I recommend testing it before your trip and notifying your bank of your travel dates, just in case.
If you’re unsure which cards actually work in Korea, check out my full post on what cards to use in South Korea. Some cards just don’t play nice with local machines.
Don’t forget to save your travel insurance details both digitally and on paper.
It’s also smart to bring a printed copy of your itinerary and hotel reservations, including the hotel address in English and Hangul.
You’ll need it for the immigration form on your flight. Plus, it makes taxi rides much easier if you have it in Hangul.
Pro tip: I keep all of this in a pouch, so it’s easy to grab at the airport or customs line, no digging through your bag while holding up the line.
Clothing: What to Pack & Wear in South Korea (Plus Exactly What I Pack)
Korean fashion is sleek, stylish, and often ahead of the curve—but don’t stress about dressing like a K-drama star.
What matters most is packing for the season, your activities, and your travel style.
That said, Korean fashion tends to be more conservative, especially when it comes to showing shoulders, chest, and collarbones. You’ll see short skirts, but low necklines or shoulders? Not so much.
Do not pack the things you wish you wore at home. You know the ones, those “maybe someday” outfits that never make it out of the closet.
Only bring clothes you actually wear and feel good in. Please keep your utmost comfort in mind, as you will be walking a LOT.
You’ll want to leave space for everything you’re going to buy. And trust me, you will shop more than you planned. I always do.
I usually end up buying a medium-sized suitcase to haul my finds back home.
If you’re checking luggage, consider packing your carry-on inside an empty suitcase on the way there—so you’ll have space for new clothes, skincare, snacks… You name it.
Oh, and one more thing: make sure you can carry your suitcase up three flights of stairs by yourself. Korea has elevators, but not everywhere. Stairs are a way of life here.
General South Korea Packing List
Most travelers bring a medium-sized suitcase and pack more outfits than I do—and that’s totally fine!
A lot of people prefer having a fresh shirt for each day, plus options for nice dinners, beach days, or that perfect café photoshoot.
If you’re not into packing light, no worries—this general list covers what most travelers bring on a trip to South Korea.
Clothing Essentials:
- 7–10 tops (tees, blouses, or button-downs)
- 3–5 bottoms (jeans, slacks, skirts, or shorts depending on season)
- 1–2 dressy outfits for photos or nights out
- Light jacket or hoodie (year-round essential)
- Warm layers for fall–spring (sweater, fleece, thermal top)
- 7+ pairs of socks and underwear
- Pajamas or loungewear
- 1–2 pairs of shoes (comfy walking shoes + sandals or flats)
- Swimsuit (for beaches, jjimjilbangs, or hotel pools)
- Hat or cap (for sun or cold weather)
How to Pack Light for South Korea Plus My Actual Pack List
If you’re aiming to pack light for your Korea trip, carry-on only or minimalist style, it’s totally doable.
I travel with a 20L backpack and a small carry-on, even for longer trips.
The key? It is easy to travel light without compromising comfort or style by packing multipurpose clothing for layering and doing laundry while on the road (use Airbnb washers or the dry bag method!).
I’m wearing: a t-shirt, a pair of pants, my hoodie, a bra, a pair of underwear, compression socks, and EVA Birkenstocks.
Here’s exactly what I pack for South Korea:
- 4 extra t-shirts
- 2 long-sleeve shirts (1 SPF shirt, 1 linen shirt)
- 1 pair of pants (linen in summer, jeans in winter)
- 1 maxi skirt
- 4 panties
- 1 extra bra
- 3 pairs of socks
- 1 pajama set or lounge wear
- Comfy walking shoes or sneakers
- Knee and ankle sleeves (for support if needed)
- 1 hat
- Lightweight windbreaker
- 1 swimsuit + 1 rash shirt
- 2 small Turkish towels
- 1 large Turkish towel
Pro tip: I usually pick up one cute, dressy top and layer it over a t-shirt each day. It doesn’t need washing as often, and no one knows I’m wearing the same thing on repeat. And honestly? No one cares.
Seasonal Packing Tips for South Korea
What you wear in South Korea depends a lot on the season.
Weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and fall, so packing flexible layers is key. Here’s what to expect—and what to bring—for each season:
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Expect fast-changing weather and big temperature swings. Pack layers: a light jacket, a hoodie or sweater, and maybe a scarf. You can always buy a cute hat locally if needed.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Hot and humid. Stick to breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, and opt for light colors to stay cool. A portable fan is a game-changer if you run hot—you’ll see locals using them everywhere, and yes, you can buy one in Korea.
🍂 Fall (September–November)
Cool mornings and warm afternoons mean layers are your best friend. Think light sweaters, a medium jacket, and pieces you can peel off and put back on throughout the day.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Seoul gets cold—like actual freezing cold. Bring a heavy coat, thermal layers, gloves, and a hat.
Busan and Jeju are milder, but still chilly, especially in the evenings. Most locals don’t wear gloves (they’re always on their phones), but many carry hand warmers—called “hot packs” or “hand stoves”—to keep in their pockets. You can even buy hot pack stickers to wear on your lower back!
If you forget something or want to shop locally, you can usually find what you need at smaller street shops or underground markets, which often carry clothing that matches the current weather.
Bigger chains like Uniqlo tend to stock clothes for the next season, so summer clothes might vanish by late August, and winter coats can be hard to find by January.
Toiletries & Personal Care Essentials for South Korea
Let’s talk toiletries. You can buy most things in Korea, but there are a few personal items you do not want to mess around with—especially if you’re brand-loyal or have sensitive skin.
Deodorant is one of them. I don’t care what anyone says—yes, Koreans use it, and yes, you can find some on the shelves.
But options are limited and often expensive. You might only see one or two unfamiliar brands that may not work for you. Just bring your usual.
The same goes for over-the-counter meds. Definitely pack your prescriptions, but it’s smart to toss in a few basics too: ibuprofen, allergy meds, something for an upset stomach, and migraine relief if you’re prone.
Korean pharmacies are fantastic, and every one I’ve visited had an English-speaking pharmacist.
That said, OTC meds are usually lower strength, and ibuprofen is often sold in packs of just 10 pills—so bring what you know works.
Sunscreen? Honestly, I love Korean sunscreen and usually just buy it there. But if you have sensitive skin or prefer specific ingredients, it’s a good idea to pack your favorite brand.
Feminine hygiene products are another big one. Whether you use pads or tampons, bring them.
Tampons aren’t always easy to find and may not work well for your body. Pads, on the other hand, are everywhere—even in convenience stores. I always recommend bringing the products you know and trust.
When it comes to makeup and skincare, I pack light. I already use Korean skincare and don’t wear much makeup, so this part of my bag is tiny.
But if you have must-haves, bring them—and definitely leave space to shop. The beauty scene in Korea is next-level.
Don’t forget the basics: toothbrush, toothpaste, and razor. If you forget your razor or don’t need it on day one, it’s easy to grab one at Daiso. I always like to have my toothbrush on hand during long flights.
Pro tip: Swap your liquid shampoo and conditioner for solid bars. They don’t count toward your TSA liquid limit, and they free up space for makeup and other essentials. Just be sure to test the brand at home before your trip.
Electronics & Travel Gadgets to Bring to Korea
Wondering what electronics to bring to Korea? Let’s start with the basics: South Korea uses 220V outlets and accepts Type F plugs.
If you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll need a universal power adapter. You can buy one online, or just grab one at Daiso in Korea for around 3,000 won (about $3).
I usually keep my phone plugged in on the flight so it’s fully charged when I land.
I always travel with a portable power bank to keep my phone charged on the go, especially helpful during long sightseeing days or when using Naver Maps and translation apps. Make sure it’s also fully charged before landing.
And don’t forget your phone charger! Before your trip, consider getting a SIM card or eSIM if you’re not using international roaming.
I have international roaming through my provider, but I still find it easier to use a local SIM or eSIM. It keeps me connected for everything from navigating the subway to finding a good café nearby.
As for headphones or earbuds? I bring both. Noise-canceling headphones are perfect for flights or relaxing in your hotel room, while earbuds are ideal for buses, subway rides, or the KTX train. Trust me—you’ll use them more than you think.
As for extras, most hotels in Korea provide a hair dryer. If you’re someone who needs a hair straightener or curling iron, you’ll need to bring your own or buy one there.
That said, unless it’s a must-have for you, I’d skip it—tools like that take up space fast and add weight.
If you plan to take photos or videos, consider packing a selfie stick or a compact tripod.
Korea is a selfie-friendly place (seriously, you’ll see phone stands at cafes and scenic overlooks), so having a tripod makes it easy to get good shots without relying on strangers.
What I Pack:
- Universal power adapter (or buy one at Daiso in Korea)
- Portable power bank
- Phone charger & USB cable
- SIM card or eSIM (or check if roaming is included)
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Compact earbuds
- Camera (optional, if you don’t just use your phone)
- Selfie stick or compact tripod
- Optional: lightweight extension cord or travel power strip if you have multiple devices
Pro tip: Double-check that you have all the right charging cords for each device—not just the obvious ones. There’s nothing worse than arriving and realizing your headphones or power bank has a different cable than your phone. I always plug in and test everything before I pack, just to be safe.
Extras to Pack Based on Your Travel Style in Korea
Your packing list for Korea isn’t just about the season—it also depends on what kind of traveler you are.
Whether you’re planning city strolls, mountain hikes, or beach days, these tips will help you fine-tune what to bring based on your itinerary.
🧗 Planning to hike?
Hiking is a national pastime in South Korea, and many locals hit the trails every weekend.
If you’re heading into the mountains, pack sturdy walking shoes or sneakers. Some trails are rocky and steep, while others are smooth and paved.
Sunscreen and bug spray are easy to find once you arrive (and won’t leak in your bag), so unless you have travel-sized versions, consider buying them in Korea.
🏖️ Heading to Busan or Jeju for a beach day?
Pack a swimsuit and a Turkish or quick-dry towel. Bikinis are totally fine, but most Koreans swim fully covered, so don’t be surprised if you get a few stares.
You can easily pick up beach mats and sandals at convenience stores or shops throughout the area.
🚶♀️ Exploring Korean cities?
You’ll walk more than you expect—comfy walking shoes are a must.
A lightweight crossbody bag or small backpack is perfect for keeping your hands free and holding essentials (including your trash—trash cans are surprisingly rare).
A reusable water bottle is also handy and makes for a useful souvenir.
➡️ Curious about more surprises like this? Read my South Korea Culture Shock Guide for first-time travelers!
❄️ Traveling to Korea in winter?
Pack warm socks, thermal layers, and maybe touchscreen gloves if you plan to use your phone outside.
You’ll find heat packs (핫팩) at nearly every 편의점 (convenience store). If you want to travel light, don’t worry—scarves and beanies are easy to find in local shops, and Korean winter fashion is warm and cute.
What You Can Buy in Korea (So Don’t Overpack)
Worried about forgetting something? Don’t stress.
South Korea is incredibly convenient, and most everyday travel items are easy to find at convenience stores, Daiso, or local pharmacies.
If you’re aiming for a minimalist packing list, these are the things you can easily buy once you land.
You can skip packing bulky or replaceable items like a raincoat, poncho, or umbrella.
These are sold everywhere, especially during the rainy season.
You’ll also find reusable water bottles, cheap plastic sandals or slippers (perfect for beach days or guesthouse showers), and sun hats or visors in most corner stores and markets.
Korean convenience stores are also super handy for grabbing insect repellent, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, even umbrellas.
Forgot your power adapter? Daiso sells them for about $3—trust me, it’s a lifesaver. You’ll also find everyday essentials like toiletries, razors, and reusable shopping bags there.
For sunscreen, head to Olive Young, a popular beauty chain you’ll probably visit more than once for all things skincare and makeup.
Things You Can Easily Buy in Korea:
- Raincoat or poncho
- Umbrella
- Reusable water bottle
- Hat or sun visor
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Slippers or plastic sandals
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
- Razors
- Reusable tote or shopping bag
- Power adapter (Type F, 220V)
Space-Savers & Packing Tips for South Korea
If you’re wondering how to pack light for Korea, a few clever packing tricks can make a big difference, especially if you prefer to travel with minimal belongings.
I swear by packing cubes or compression bags to keep everything organized and compact.
They help you see exactly what you packed and prevent the dreaded suitcase explosion by day three.
Roll your clothes instead of folding—this not only saves space but also helps prevent wrinkles.
I also plan to do laundry during my trip. If I’m staying at an Airbnb, I use the washing machine.
If not, I bring a dry bag and hand-wash a few items in the hotel bathroom. It’s super easy and means I don’t have to overpack.
And most importantly? Leave space for souvenirs. You’re definitely going to shop! Whether it’s cute socks, skincare, or something random from a night market.
I always make sure to save space (and keep my bag under weight limits) so I don’t have to stress at the end of the trip.
FAQs – What to Pack for South Korea
Yes—South Korea uses 220V outlets and Type C or F plugs, which are different from those in the U.S. A universal power adapter is essential. You can buy one online before your trip or grab one at Daiso for around 3,000 won (about $3).
Shorts are totally fine, especially in summer, but low-cut tops, exposed shoulders, and cleavage are less common, especially in more traditional or rural areas. You’ll see plenty of miniskirts, but less skin up top. When in doubt, layer with a light jacket or tee for a respectful but cool outfit.
Yes! Most basic toiletries and personal items are easy to find at convenience stores, Daiso, or Olive Young. That said, if you’re brand-loyal or have sensitive skin, bring your usual deodorant, OTC meds, and feminine hygiene products, as options in Korea may be limited or different from what you’re used to.
Shopping! Korean skincare, clothes, cute socks, and night market finds add up fast. I always leave extra room (and weight!) in my bag for souvenirs and impulse buys. If you’re checking luggage, consider packing your carry-on inside a larger suitcase so you can fill it up before heading home.
Final Thoughts on What to Pack for South Korea
Packing for South Korea doesn’t have to be stressful—you just need to plan ahead based on the season, your travel style, and where you’re going.
From beach days to city strolls to crisp mountain mornings, this guide should help you pack smart, travel light, and leave room for a little shopping.
Whether it’s your first trip or you’re coming back for more adventures, having the right essentials makes all the difference.
H2 Before You Go… Don’t Miss These Travel Guides:
Tap the guides below to keep planning your trip!
🧳 How to Use Cash & Cards in South Korea – Avoid money mishaps, hidden fees, and card issues with this quick guide.
🏨 Where to Stay in Seoul or where to Stay in Busan – The best areas in Seoul, Busan, and beyond, tailored to different travel styles and budgets.
🚨 “Annyeonghaseyo” and beyond! Learn a few Korean phrases. A few Korean basics could be your trip-saver.
📱 Must-Have Apps for South Korea Travel – Download these before your trip for smoother navigation, translation, and more.
🗺️ Getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul or from Seoul to Busan – Step-by-step travel tips to get you settled fast.