Must-haves when traveling to South Korea
Planning a trip to South Korea? Preparing what to pack for The Land of the Morning Calm can be daunting, but there's no need to panic when you've got a list of what to bring. Find out what exactly you need to bring for your trip.
1. Travel Insurance
Korean health care system is quite advanced and accessible but the treatment costs for foreigners can be quite expensive.
Enjoy traveling with peace of mind by purchasing a travel insurance policy that covers medical care, trip cancellation, lost or damaged luggage, theft, and medical emergencies.
2. Phrasebook
Although plenty of South Koreans can speak English, it's best to know a few basic Korean words and phrases to help you while traveling or shopping in South Korea.
There are various phrasebooks you can download online or purchase from a bookstore to provide convenient translations of sentences into Korean. Getting a guidebook is also helpful if you're planning to be on the road a lot.
3. Universal power adapter
Bring an all-in-one international power adapter to save time in charging so you can charge several devices simultaneously. An international power adapter is perfect for traveling because it's suitable for different types of plug sockets, voltages, and converters.
4. Powerbank
A powerbank is a must when you're out and about. Take endless snapshots and videos without running low on battery with a powerbank that has at least 10000 mAh.
5. Pocket WiFi or 4G Sim Card
Stay connected with family and friends by buying a Pocket WiFi or 4G sim card. For 4G sim cards, make sure your mobile phone is unlocked or carry extra electronic devices for emergency use.
6. Outerwear
Just like other countries, weather in South Korea can be unpredictable especially during the transition of seasons. The temperature can shift from humid to chilly abruptly so it's always a good idea to bring clothes for cool and warm weather. Packing outerwear such as jackets is a must to protect yourself from the weather.
7. Walking shoes
South Korea is comprised of many small hills even within the city and walking a lot is inevitable. Wear comfortable walking shoes to avoid getting sore feet.
8. First-aid kit
Wherever you travel, bringing your own first-aid kit is essential. Your first-aid kit may include bandages, band-aids, antiseptic ointment, allergy medication, anti-diarrhea, fever reduction, and painkillers as well as prescription medicine if you're taking any.
9. T-Money Card
A T-Money Card is a convenient South Korean transportation card that can be used for paying for subways, buses, and even cab fares. A T-Money Card is reloadable and can be used for almost all public transit fares in South Korea.
10. Map
Travel easily around South Korea by downloading a map online that you can access even when you're offline. While some online maps work better in specific countries, Kakao Map and Naver Map app provide a comprehensive view of South Korea's GPS navigation.
11. Subway app
South Korea's public train system is one of the most convenient and extensive around the world. With so many train stations and lines, it's easy to get lost. Find your way around South Korea's subway system by downloading a subway app. You can also see which train lines you can take to get to your chosen destination.
12. Daily budget
Unexpected expenses can pile up quite fast so plan a daily budget prior to your travel. South Korea uses credit cards for almost everything, but carrying enough cash in case your card gets rejected is also helpful.
13. Passport
Some establishments require presenting an ID or passport so make sure to carry your passport with you or at least a passport photocopy.
14. Towels
Although you can buy a towel when you get to South Korea, you can save money by bringing your own. You'll usually find small-sized towels in accommodations and stores in South Korea, so bring a larger one you can use for taking a bath.
15. Deodorant
South Koreans typically don't use deodorants so if you're used to wearing deodorant, bring your own brand to stay sweat-free.
Travelling do's
Learn how to “claygo”
Most restaurants and cafes in South Korea practice claygo or cleaning as you go. Remember to clean up your table before leaving an establishment and avoid leaving your things unattended.
Self-service
Some restaurants practice self-service in getting food and drinks as well as paying the bill so ask the food servers about how to get your order and pay your bill when dining.
Additionally, keep your travel stress-free by familiarizing yourself with basic etiquette and rules of the place you're visiting.
Don't hesitate to ask questions. The key to enjoying your travel is being open to new experiences and knowing how to adapt to different cultures outside your own.