Korea Travel Essentials & Packing Guide 2025
Don’t arrive unprepared! Here are the must-have items for your Korea trip, with links to purchase before you go.
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🔌 Electronics & Connectivity
Power Adapter (ESSENTIAL)
Korea uses Type C and F plugs (220V). You WILL need an adapter.
What to buy:
- Universal travel adapter with USB ports
- Type C/F specific adapter (cheaper)
- Voltage converter (only for old devices)
Pro tip: Korean convenience stores sell adapters for ~₩10,000, but quality varies.
Portable WiFi / SIM Card
Stay connected throughout your trip:
Options:
- Pocket WiFi rental – Pick up at airport, ₩5,000-8,000/day
- Korean SIM card – Data-only or with calls, ₩20,000-40,000
- eSIM – Most convenient for newer phones
Power Bank
Your phone will die faster than you think (maps, photos, translations):
Recommended specs:
- 10,000-20,000 mAh capacity
- USB-C + USB-A ports
- Airplane-safe (under 100Wh)
👜 Travel Gear
Day Bag / Backpack
You’ll walk 15,000+ steps daily. Get a comfortable bag:
Features to look for:
- Lightweight (under 500g empty)
- Anti-theft zippers
- Water bottle pocket
- Padded laptop compartment
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Seoul has hills. Busan has beaches. Pack accordingly:
Recommendations:
- Breathable sneakers (summer)
- Waterproof shoes (rainy season: June-July)
- Slip-ons for temple visits (shoe removal required)
💄 K-Beauty & Personal Care
Sheet Masks & Skincare
Stock up before or during your trip:
Pro tip: K-beauty is MUCH cheaper in Korea. Olive Young and Daiso are your friends. But grab a few favorites before you go for the flight.
Sunscreen (Korean Formula)
Korean sunscreens are famous for being lightweight and non-greasy:
Popular brands:
- Beauty of Joseon (relief sun)
- COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
- Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
📱 Useful Apps (Free)
Download these before you go:
| App | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Naver Map | Best for Korea navigation |
| Kakao Metro | Subway directions |
| Papago | Translation (better than Google for Korean) |
| Kakao T | Taxi booking |
| Coupang | Online shopping / delivery |
🧳 Packing Checklist
Electronics
- Power adapter (Type C/F)
- Portable WiFi or SIM card
- Power bank (10,000+ mAh)
- Phone charger cable
- Camera (optional)
Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light layers (AC is strong indoors)
- Rain jacket (June-August)
- Socks for temple visits
Documents
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- K-ETA approval (if required)
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Travel insurance documents
Personal Care
- Sunscreen
- Sheet masks for the flight
- Basic toiletries (or buy in Korea)
- Prescription medications
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- Buy adapters/power banks at home – Airport prices are 2-3x higher
- Get an eSIM – Often cheaper than physical SIM
- Pack light – You WILL shop in Korea
- Bring an empty bag – For souvenirs on the way back
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