Ultimate checklist: What to pack for your trip to Korea

Embarking on a journey to Korea? Prepare for an unforgettable adventure with our ultimate list of essentials. So whether you're strutting through Seoul or hiking in Busan, don't forget to pack these essentials (most importantly, don't over pack!). Trust me, you'll be thanking me later for making your Korean adventure smooth like Butter!

1. Passport

You can’t really travel outside your country without your passport, so make sure to pack it. Pro tip 1: Keep an electronic copy in your phone, email or drive, and a photocopy of your passport just in case you lose your passport during your trip. This can save you a lot of trouble when you go to to your country’s embassy for a replacement. Pro tip 2: List down your Passport information as well as your flight information on your phone, as you might have to write them down for the immigration form

2. Power Plug Adaptor

The power plug sockets in Korea might be different from the ones used in your country, so be sure to ch check if you are using the right one. Korea uses Type C (Euro plug) and F (Schuko) power plug sockets.

3. Chargers

It would suck if you went all the way to a different country only to realize that your phone or camera charger was left behind.

4. Korean Won

Some might say that Korea, especially Seoul has already become a cashless society. It is true that you can use your card for most transactions, but there are still areas (traditional markets, street stalls) that only accept cash. Make sure to inform your bank that you will be travelling overseas so they won’t block your card.

5. Clothes appropriate for the weather

The weather in Korea can be quite extreme, from freezing winters to hot and humid summeres. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip.

6. Comfortable shoes 

Public transportation is very reliant, and taxis are abundant in areas like Seoul. However, Korea is around 70-80% mountains, and many areas are hilly so you can expect to go on a mini hike whenever you go out. Expect to walk at least 20,000 steps when you are exploring the city.

7. Pocket wifi or Sim

The internet connection in Korea is fast, but wifi is not always readily available, especially if you are outside. With a pocket wifi or sim, you'll maintain constant access to the internet, enabling effortless navigation, real-time translations, and instant sharing of your memorable experiences. 

8. Powerbank

A power bank for your trip to Korea is essential in staying connected and powered up on the go. You'll rely on your devices for navigation, translation, and capturing memories. As you explore this dynamic country, ensuring a reliable power source guarantees a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

9. Maintenance Medicines or Travel Medicine

If you have to take prescription or maintenance medicines on a regular, be sure to bring them along, as it might not be easy to get a hold of them in Korea. It would also be good to prepare just in case things don't go according to plan, especially since the language barrier might be a problem when you go to the pharmacy. Here are a few travel medicines that might be useful:

But be sure to check if the medicine you are bringing with you is allowed in Korea.

• Pain Medicine: Useful when you suddenly get headaches, your period, or other minor pains
• Motion Sickness Medicine: Korean taxi drivers drive like theyre the next main character in a Fast and Furious movie. Many foreigners expereince motion sickness while riding taxis in Seoul. Better pack a few just in case.
• Antihistamine/Allergy Medicine or epipen: Allergy warnings aren’t a thing in Korea. You might accidentally eat something you are allergic to, just because the seller was not aware that it was part of the ingredients.
• Antacid: For possible stomach issues
• Diarrhea medicine: Trying new food might upset your stomach and lead to issues.

10. Umbrella or hat

The weather in Korea is unpredictable, especially during the summer. One minute it is oven-hot, the next minute rain could be pouring like theres no tomorrow.

11. Eco Bag and Zip lock bags

Consider bringing an eco bag along on your trip to Korea as it might be useful when you go out shopping. Zip lock bags are great for organizing your items.

12. Pen

Some countries require you to write your information for entry, some may not. But it would be better to keep a pen with you so you won’t have to scramble to find one if they do ask you. This can save you a lot of time looking for a working pen.

13. Water bottle

This is more for the airport, instead of buying expensive drinks or bottled water once you get to the airside of the airport, just bring an empty bottled water and fill it up at the water fountains.

14. Card holder

If you will be using the public transportation, it would be more convenient to have a card holder strapped to your neck or to your phone so it would grant you easy access when you need to tap on or tap off.

15. Toiletries

• Tissue
• Hand sanitizer
• Sanitary Pads if you are female

16. Snacks

If you are planning on visiting friends or making new friends, bringing snacks or something unique or small from your country is a great idea.