How to Survive Songkran (Thai New Year Water Festival)

The Golden Rule: It's a Festival of Fun, Not a War

The spirit of Songkran is about cleansing, renewal, and merit-making. People are (almost always) being playful and friendly. Smile, laugh, and don't get angry if you get soaked. Resistance is futile—and you'll miss the point!

Part 1: What to Wear (Your Survival Suit)

Your clothing choices are your first line of defense.

• Clothes:

  • Quick-Dry Fabrics: This is non-negotiable. Wear athletic shorts/tshirts or lightweight, dark-colored clothing that won't become see-through when wet. Avoid denim—it becomes heavy and takes forever to dry.

  • Swimwear: It's perfectly acceptable to wear a swimsuit under your clothes or even just swim trunks and a t-shirt.

• Footwear:

  • Strap-On Sandals (like Tevas or Crocs) are the gold standard. They provide grip and won't get sucked off your feet in the mud or washed away.

  • Avoid: Flip-flops (they will break or you'll lose them) and closed-toe shoes (they'll be filled with water all day).

• Eyewear:

  • Swim Goggles: This is the pro move. Perfect for protecting your eyes from chlorinated or dirty water and for retaliating without being blinded.

  • Sunglasses: Only if you don't mind losing them. They offer some protection but can easily be knocked off.

Part 2: What to Protect (Your Essential Gear)

• Your Electronics: This is CRITICAL.

  • Waterproof Bag/Dry Bag: Get a proper dry bag with a roll-top closure for your phone, wallet, keys, and passport. Ziplock bags are a temporary solution but not reliable for a full-day soaking.

  • Phone: Use a high-quality, lanyard-style waterproof phone case that allows you to still use the touchscreen. This is the single most important item you will buy.

• Your Skin:

  • Waterproof Sunscreen (High SPF): You are outside all day and constantly "washing" the sunscreen off. Reapply constantly. A painful sunburn will ruin your trip.

  • Baby Powder/Talcum Powder: Great for preventing chafing from wet clothes.

• Your Ears (Optional but Smart):

  • Earplugs: A sudden blast of water from a water gun directly into the ear canal is not only unpleasant but can lead to infections.

Part 3: Mindset and Etiquette (How to Act)

• Smile and Wai: The traditional greeting is a gentle pour of water over the shoulders or hands of elders as a sign of respect. For everyone else, it's a free-for-all, but always be playful. If you smile and give a polite "Sawasdee pee mai!" (Happy New Year!), you'll make friends.

• Know the "No-Soak" Zones:

  • Inside the BTS/MRT: These areas are strictly off-limits and are safe havens.

  • Inside 7-Elevens/Malls: Shops are dry zones. Be respectful and don't spray near entrances.

  • People on Motorcycles: Do NOT aggressively target people on motorbikes. A gentle sprinkle is often okay, but a high-pressure blast can cause a dangerous accident.

  • Elders, Monks, Babies, Police Officers: Use common sense. Don't soak people who are clearly not participating (e.g., in formal wear, monks in robes).

• What's in the Water? Assume it's ice-cold tap water, which is refreshing. However, sometimes it can be from a canal or have dye in it. Be prepared for anything, but it's generally clean enough.

Your Songkran Survival Kit Checklist

• Quick-dry clothes & swimsuit

• Strap-on sandals

• Goggles or old sunglasses

• WATERPROPHONE CASE

• Dry Bag for valuables

• Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+)

• A small amount of cash (in a waterproof bag) for food and water

• A positive attitude and a big smile!

Where to Experience Songkran

• Bangkok: The epicenter is Khao San Road (for a wild, party scene) and Silom Road (a massive street party). Siam Square is also famous for a more family-friendly but still chaotic experience.

• Chiang Mai: Considered the spiritual home of Songkran. It's more traditional, with beautiful parades and merit-making at temples, but the moat area becomes a huge water fight.

• Pattaya: They celebrate for longer, with the festival stretching out over a week.

What to Absolutely Avoid

• Driving a Scooter: Just don't. The roads are slippery, visibility is poor, and people are not paying attention to traffic.

• Carrying Valuables: Leave your passport, expensive jewelry, and non-essential credit cards locked in your hotel safe.

• Getting Angry: It's a water festival. You will get wet. Laugh it off.

• Ice Water: While common, be cautious of people throwing buckets of ice water. It can be a shock to the system. Politely gesture "no" if you see it coming and can't handle it.

In short: Dress for a day at the water park, protect your electronics like your life depends on it, respect the local customs, and surrender to the fun. Songkran is an unforgettable experience—embrace the soak!