Ultimate Packing List for Korea (Winter)

With 4 distinct seasons, you will need a different Korea packing list for spring, summer, fall and winter! I've been to Korea in spring at least 5 times, and here are my best tips on what to bring when the weather is cold, to make the most out of your time in the country, even when the temperatures fall below freezing!

Jump to:

• Weather
• Winter Clothes
• Footwear for Every Occasion
• Accessories to Keep You Warm
• Technology and Connectivity
• Health and Personal Care
• Weather
• Clothing
• Footwear
• Technology
• Health
• Beauty/ Skincare
• Travel Essentials
• Etiquette and Tips
• Miscellaneous
• Beauty and Skincare
• Travel Essentials
• Etiquette and Tips
• Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Embarking on a winter journey to Korea can be a lot of fun: it snows quite a bit and turns into a winter wonderland. (Korea is a good place for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.) There are also many winter festivals to take part in!

However, with the temperatures known to plunge below zero- a South Korean winter is even worse than a Scottish one!- a well-thought-out packing list for winter in Korea is essential to fully enjoy the cold season. From travel essentials to the necessary free phone apps for Korea, this complete guide is a comprehensive list of things for both first-timers and return visitors.

Scroll down for tips on what to bring, whether you're travelling to Seoul, Jeju Island, or Busan!

Note: If you're not sure about which cities to include in your South Korean itinerary, click here to find out more about Busan vs Seoul, Busan vs Nami Island, and Busan vs Jeju Island. And if you're in Korea in summer instead, here's what you should bring to Korea in June/ July/ August and what to pack for Korea in fall!

Weather

Winter in Korea (December to February) is freezing cold.

It's usually not that bad in December, but come January (the coldest month in Seoul), the average temperature is 27F/ 2.4C, sometimes falling to below -15 °C (5 °F). For almost the last 4 decades, January has been the month with the most snow in Korea, with an average 6.8 days of snow.

So you're going to need lots of layers, that can keep out the wind, cold, and snow!

Winter Clothes

• Thermal Underwear: A good thermal base layer is important for insulation during cold winters. You may want to bring long johns or leggings to wear under your clothing.
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Woolen Sweaters and Fleeces: You will need stylish yet warm clothing for layering. If you can afford it, go for cashmere, as it's warm but thin, so you don't end up wearing such thick clothing.
• Winter Coat: Ideally windproof and waterproof for snowy winters. I usually bring my Moncler parka to Korea in winter.
• Scarf or muff: to keep your neck warm!
• Pants or Jeans: make sure they're loose enough to accommodate your thermal layers
• Dressy Attire: An outfit for special occasions or fine dining experiences is always handy, in case you visit anywhere with a dress code, such as any of Seoul's Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Mosu.

Packing Tips

• Space-Saving: Roll your clothes to save space and avoid wrinkles.
• Mix and Match: Choose a color scheme that allows you to mix and match outfits easily- I like travelling with a capsule wardrobe and switching up the look with accessories (They're beautiful and cheap in Korea!)
• Laundry Access: If you're staying for an extended period, consider accommodations with laundry facilities, allowing you to pack lighter. (This is quite common in mid-range Korean hotels, such as Songdo Fairfield in Busan, L7 Hotel in Gangnam Seoul,, Ibis Seoul etc. You pay a small fee to use the machines.)
• Compression Bags: Winter clothing is bulking and these zip-lock bags help to reduce the space they take up.
• Winter is obviously the best time to visit Korea for winter sports. If you don't have your own winter sports equipment, don't worry, you can rent them from the ski resorts.

Footwear for Every Occasion

Packing the right pairs of shoes can make or break your trip to Korea in the spring.

The biggest mistake? Not bringing comfortable walking shoes.

South Korea is a great place for day trips and exploring major cities like Seoul and Busan. I highly recommend bringing at least 2 pairs of shoes:

• Footwear: Waterproof boots with good traction for snow and ice. Comfort is key. You can also bring sneakers or comfortable and durable walking shoes with good support. Make sure they have a good grip, in case the roads freeze over.
• Nature Trails: If you plan to engage in Koreans' favorite pasttime- hiking- pack sturdy hiking shoes are a good idea. (You will see some Korean ladies hike up the easier paths in HEELS though!)
• a more formal pair of shoes (for nicer meals): for this, I like Vivaia.
  • They're made from recycled water bottles (so I feel better about my environmental impact)
  • Look smart: only pointed shoes that suit my wide feet! (Even better than my designer ones from Salvatore Ferragamo which I've stopped wearing after buying Vivaia.)
  • Can take me long distances: I've walked over 8000 steps with them without getting blisters! (They chafed a bit the very first time I wore them, but from the second time onwards, no problem at all!)
  • Washable!!!: Can be popped into the washing machine to get rid of all the muds and stains!
  • They also have waterproof boots!
  • Note: at the time of writing I am NOT a Vivaia affiliate- and I paid for my own shoes- but I fully intend to apply to be an affiliate once this site sees some traction! 😛

If you are a female with large feet- I STRONGLY recommend bringing a spare pair of walking shoes, in case the original gives out. Asian sizes for women's shoes run very small, especially in Korea. My boots broke in April 2023 and I had to buy a pair of unisex slippers (from the ABC Mart in Myeongdong) since I couldn't find a regular pair in my size. (EU40.5)

Accessories to Keep You Warm

• Hats, Gloves, and Scarves: These are must-have accessories to protect against the cold. Bring more than one pair if going skiing or snowboarding as they may get wet!
• Thermal Socks: It is super important to keep your feet warm. Woollen, cashmere, or thick cotton socks all work.
• Heat Packs: Korea is so cold that I always bring heat packs to help keep me warm. (And I used to live in Scotland!) You can get these at DAISO or a convenience store in Korea.

Technology and Connectivity

Korea has excellent digital infrastructure, with some of the fastest internet speeds in the world.

There is WiFi almost EVERYWHERE in Korea- you can ask the cafes and hair salons for their wifi password. However, getting an e-SIM or local Sim Card will help you immeasurably. (Navigating the streets of Korea can be a bit confusing, so you don't want to run out of phone battery! I prefer eSIMs because it's easy to add more credit, and there's no queuing involved.)

1. Smartphone:
   • Essential for navigation, translation apps, and capturing memories.
   • Ensure your phone is unlocked if you plan to use a Korean SIM card for local data access.
2. Chargers and Power Bank:
   • Bring your device chargers and consider a universal travel adapter for Korean outlets (Type C and Type F plugs, 220V).
   • A high-capacity power bank can be a lifesaver during long days of exploration.
3. Portable Wi-Fi Router or SIM Card:
   • Rent a portable Wi-Fi router or purchase a local SIM card for uninterrupted internet access, especially if your accommodation doesn’t offer Wi-Fi.
4. Digital Camera or DSLR:
   • For photography enthusiasts, a high-quality camera can capture the stunning landscapes and urban scenes in greater detail than a smartphone.
5. E-Reader or Tablet:
   • Ideal for leisure reading during flights or downtime, and for storing travel guides and maps.
6. Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earbuds:
   • Enhance your travel experience, whether it’s enjoying music during transit or blocking out noise for a peaceful rest.
7. Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker:
   • Keep track of your steps and activity levels as you explore the bustling streets and scenic trails.

Tech Tips for Travelers

• Data Backup: Don't forget to back up your photos and important documents in cloud storage or an external hard drive. I once had my phone pickpocketed in the UK before I had saved the photos- it was awful!
• Apps: Download useful travel apps before departure, such as language translation, currency conversion, and public transportation guides. Here is a list of the best free apps to download for South Korea, such as Papago (a tranlsation app.)
  • Remember that Google Maps does not work here!

Be mindful when taking photos or using devices in sacred or culturally significant places. Always ask for permission when photographing people!

Health and Personal Care

South Korea is a country with 4 very different seasons. Your packing list for summer, spring, fall, and winter will not be the same. I've traveled to Korea in the summer several times: here are my best tips on what you should include in your South Korea packing list for summer, whether it's your first time or 10th!

South Korea in East Asia offers a diverse array of experiences for travelers: from the cosmopolitan energy of Seoul to the natural wonders of Jeju Island and the beaches in Busan. However, the climate is extremely varied: biting cold winters, and very hot and humid Korean summers.

To fully enjoy all that Korea has to offer, it's essential to pack the right clothing, footwear, and travel essentials.

Having traveled to Korea nearly ten times, thanks to a childhood friend who married a Korean, I've gained valuable insights into what to bring for each of the distinct seasons. I make a point to highlight necessities that may be hard to find in Korea but are readily available in your home country, such as tampons and deodorant.

This complete Korea packing list for humid summers will include all the things that both first-timers and seasoned travelers should know. It is a complete guide including everything from travel essentials to cultural differences, making sure you have the right clothes, SIM card, essential Korean phone apps, travel insurance and more.

Note: To help you decide which part of Korea to explore, click here to learn more about the differences between Busan vs Seoul, Busan vs Nami Island, and Busan vs Jeju Island.

Weather

Unfortunately, the summer is also the rainy season (mid June to end July), so it's not just hot, it's also humid.

I much prefer visiting in fall or spring. Fall is the best time to visit Korea, in my opinion- when the average temperatures are not too hot, and not too cold. (For a packing list for Korean in spring and what to pack for Korea in fall, click here.)

The only bright side is that the air is usually less polluted than in spring. The average temperature is about 26.3 °C (79 °F), with a minimum of 22.6 °C (72.7 °F) and a maximum of 29.9 °C (85.9 °F). (Note that it's usually hotter than 26C/ 79F during the day.)

There is also a lot of variation between the different parts of Korea. I would recommend spending time in Jeju or Busan during the summer, instead of Seoul, as they will have lovely sea breezes to cool you down.

Clothing

You might be tempted to bare it all in summer. In Korea, it's common to see women wearing super short mini skirts. However, revealing cleavage is generally considered less acceptable. When visiting temples or rural areas, it's respectful to dress modestly by covering your shoulders.

• Clothing in breathable fabrics
  • Tops made of natural fabric
    • Bring a mix of cotton t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts (the air-conditioned malls and department stalls may be chilly, and blouses.
    • A light cardigan for chilly evenings or when entering places with AC will be useful
  • Bottoms
    • Shorts
    • Skirts (or dresses)
    • You may want to bring a pair of trousers or jeans for places which require covering up, but I personally find them too confining for summer and leave even my favorite jeans behind
• Outerwear
  • I don't really recommend a light waterproof rain jacket because it's usually much too hot for one: instead, bring a small foldable umbrella that can fit in your bag.
  • If you plan to swim, many pools have a dress code and require a swimming cap.
• Dressy Attire
  • Include a dress or outfit for fine dining experiences or watching performances
  • Korea has one of the world's least expensive 3-star Michelin restaurants, so it's worth a visit. (Mosu- I went in 2023 and enjoyed it.)
• Accessories
  • Accessories help to keep a limited capsule wardrobe more interesting.
  • However, earrings, necklaces in the like are cheap in Korea so you might want to buy them when you're there.
  • Sunglasses are not commonly worn. Using them may mark you as a tourist, even if you have an East Asian appearance.
  • If you plan to swim: Most hotel swimming pools require you to use a swimming cap. It is also common for 5-star hotels to charge for swimming pool and sauna access.

If you're not petite-sized, you may struggle to find clothing in your size in Korea. Asian sizes are small. Most Koreans are extraordinatelyy thin, with local clothing usually offered in only 1 size (free size.)

Packing Tips

• Space-Saving: Roll your clothes to save space and keep them wrinkle-free.
• Laundromat: If you're in Korea for a longer period of time- I sometimes stay for over a month- choose a hotel with laundry facilities. This is especially important in summmr when you sweat, and your clothes may not be wearable more than once.(A laundry room is quite common in mid-range Korean hotels, such as Songdo Fairfield in Busan, L7 Hotel in Gangnam Seoul, Ibis Seoul... You will have to pay a small fee of a few thousand won. They offer washers, dryers, and even ironing facilities!)

Footwear

You will most likely walk quite a bit when traveling in South Korea, whether when on a day trip from Seoul or wandering around major cities such as Seoul and Busan. (Unless you cab everywhere- taxis are inexpensive but there are some no-go zones for cars near some tourist areas on weekends.)

I always bring at least 2 pairs of shoes:

• sneakers or comfortable and durable walking shoes
• For wannabe hikers, sturdy hiking shoes are a good idea.
• If your Korean itinerary includes the beaches of Busan or Jeju, sandals or flip-flops will come in handy
• formal shoes (for nice restaurants or attending Korean traditional performances)
  • I always bring my Vivaia shoes
    • Made from recycled water bottles 
    • Look nice: the only pointed shoes that suit my big, wide feet! (Even better than my Salvatore Ferragamo pairs which I find too uncomfortable to wear now.)
    • Comfortable: I've walked nearly 10,000 steps with them (at a go) without developing blisters! (This is the longest I've ever walked in shoes that are not boots or sneakers. The shoes irritated me a bit on the very first outing, but from the second time on, there was no issue at all!)
    • Washable: Most models can be put in the washing machine
    • Note: at the time of writing this ultimate Korean packing list got summer, I am NOT a Vivaia affiliate and I paid for my own shoes- but I fully intend to apply soon

If you are a female and have large feet, your biggest mistake is not bringing a spare pair of shoes. If yours breaks or gets wet, it is ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE to find large-sized female shoes in Korea- both on the street and in a department centre. My pairo of boots broke in April 2023 in Seoul- a pair of unisex slippers (from the ABC Mart in Myeongdong) was the only thing I could find in my size. (40.5)

Technology

Korea is amazing for WiFi- there is WiFi almost EVERYWHERE and the speed is fast.

Nonetheless, I always buy and suggest you buy an e-SIM or local Sim Card. You will need your phone for many things- a translation app, Navigation app etc- and it's always best to have data on hand.

1. Smartphone:
   • Essential for navigation apps such as Naver and Kakao (Google is not used- this is a list of the best free apps to download for South Korea, translation apps, etc.
   • Ensure your mobile phones are unlocked if you plan to use a Korean SIM card for local data access.
2. Chargers and Power Bank:
   • Bring your device chargers
   • You will need a universal travel adapter for Korean outlets (Type C and Type F plugs, 220V)
   • A high-capacity power bank
3. SIM Card:
   • You can also rent a portable Wi-Fi router. However, some booking sites require you to have a local Korean phone number, so a SIM card is more useful
   • or purchase a local SIM card/ e-SIM. You can get local SIM cards at Incheon but with an e-SIM there is no need to queue.
4. A light Digital Camera or DSLR
5. E-Reader or Tablet
   • Ideal for leisure reading during flights or downtime, and for storing travel guides and maps.
6. Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earbuds:
   • All I can say is: crying babies on the long-haul flight...
7. Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker:
   • Helps you meet your fitness goals whilst on holiday!

Health

Here is a list of things to bring for personal use, just in case:

• A first aid kit and medications:
  • Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a small tube of antibiotic ointment
  • Tweezers for splinters
  • Hand sanitizer and face masks
  • Many personal care items can easily be found at local grocery stores or convenience stores, which you'll find everywhere. (Many hotels have a convenience store in or near their building.)
  • However, due to cultural differences, there are some medicines and personal items that are difficult to find in Korea, such as tampons.
• Routine Vaccinations
  • Ensure that your routine vaccines like MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot are up to date.
• Prescription Medicines
  • Bring an adequate supply of your prescription medications.
  • Leave them in their original containers with clear labels
  • Carry a copy of your prescription.
• Over-the-Counter Essentials:
  • Pain relievers
  • Allergy medications (antihistamines)
  • Cold and flu remedies
  • Anti-diarrheal medications
  • Motion sickness pills if you plan to travel by bus or boat
• Chronic Conditions
  • For conditions like diabetes or heart disease, carry a medical alert bracelet and a letter from your doctor detailing your condition and treatment plan. Have it translated in Korean, as many people do not speak or read English.

Vegans or travelers with food allergies or special dietary needs should get their dietary requirements written down in Korean. Also, research the restaurants before hand as meat is a huge part of Korean food. (I do NOT recommend the temple restaurant in Insa-dong.)

Beauty/ Skincare

Don't bring too much as you can get a lot of fun inexpensive beauty brands in Korea There are many very good Korean brands, ranging from Innisfree to Sulwahsoo- I used to sell Korean beauty products online, which is why I've bene to Korea os many times!

A travel sized set will suffice- don't forget a sunscreen with a high SPF and a lip balm with SPF protection. (However, if you have darker skin, you will struggle to find suitable make-up in Korea so bring your own. Koreans only cater to fair skin, and love being as pale as possible.

Tip: go to stores which give you more freebies and samples. This is part of Korean culture- they call it "service." Stores like Olive Young have lots of brands, but don't give as many free gifts.

Travel Essentials

• Travel insurance
  • Make sure your plan covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
  • Carry your travel insurance information with you.
• Credit cards
  • These work at convenience stores, depeartment stores, hotels etc.
  • However. a lot of Korean websites- such as Busan's Blue Line Park- will not take foreign credit cards.
  • You will need some cash to buy Korean traditional souvenirs and local snacks from the markets. The exchange rate in Myeong Dong is better than that at the airport.
• Passports and IDs

Etiquette and Tips

1. Personal space is less of a focus in Korea. I have experienced situations where an older woman (Ahjumma) has placed her hands on me and physically moved me out of the way in crowded places like Namdaemun Market in Seoul. While this would be considered unacceptable in the West, in Korea, it's best to accept it as a cultural norm.
2. Tipping is not customary in Korea. I've had bellboys in Seoul hotels politely refuse tips when offered.
3. When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a gesture of respect. Alternatively, you can use one hand (typically the right) while supporting the wrist or forearm of the giving hand with your other hand.
4. Do NOT wear your shoes into people's homes.

Miscellaneous

My ultimate Korea packing list for summer also includes:

• Refillable Water bottle: Although tap water in Korea is generally safe to drink, I always opt for bottled water when traveling with my elderly relatives. This precaution stems from a past experience of food poisoning during a visit to Jeju Island 10 years ago, where the owner of the pension we stayed at suggested the cause might have been the water, as many other guests had also fallen ill.
• Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying cash is essential for transactions at local markets and in more rural areas. For example, it was only in February 2024 that street vendors in the popular Myeong Dong district started accepting card payments.
• Portable charger: Taking photos can quickly drain your phone's battery. A portable charger ensures you can always access navigation apps like Kakao or Naver maps, even at the end of a long day.
• Adapters for electronics: Korea uses different plug types from many countries, so it's important to bring the appropriate adapters for your electronic devices.
• Travel pillow: Surprisingly, some 5-star hotels in Korea may charge extra if you request an additional pillow. If you need ample support for a good night's sleep, consider bringing your own travel pillow to avoid incurring additional costs.

Seniors may want to bring their own wheelchair: if you are not so mobile, and will require a wheelchair from time to time, take note that many places in Korea do not stock enough wheelchairs for guests. For example, we managed to reserve one in advance when staying at Lotte Seoul. However, it was impossible at Shilla Jeju and even though they offered us one on arrival (and seeing how my Aunt walked), they could not produce a single one for our entire stay!

Preparing for health and personal care is an essential step towards a worry-free journey.

• Packing a first aid kit and medications:
  • Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a small tube of antibiotic ointment
  • Tweezers for splinters
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF protection
  • Hand sanitizer and face masks
  • Many personal care items can easily be found at local grocery stores or convenience stores, which you'll find everywhere. (Many hotels have convenience stores in their buildings.) However, due to cultural differences, there are some medicine and personal items that you will find hard to get in Korea, such as tampons.
• Routine Vaccinations
  • Ensure that your routine vaccines like MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot are up to date.
• Prescription Medicines
  • Bring an adequate supply of your prescription medications. Carry them in their original containers with clear labels and bring a copy of your prescription.
• Over-the-Counter Essentials:
  • Pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
  • Allergy medications (antihistamines)
  • Cold and flu remedies
  • Anti-diarrheal medications
  • Motion sickness pills if you plan to travel by bus or boat
• Chronic Conditions
  • For conditions like diabetes or heart disease, carry a medical alert bracelet and a letter from your doctor detailing your condition and treatment plan.

Dietary Restrictions: If you have food allergies or special dietary needs, learn how to communicate them in Korean or carry a card that explains your restrictions in Korean. It can be challenging to find vegan food in Korea- I've had to help quite a few tourists transatae at restaurants!

Beauty and Skincare

This is where you can pack lightly.

A travel sized set will do as skincare and beauty products are widely available in Korea.

When buying skincare and beauty products, you can get very affordable but decent quality items from Korean brands. Plus, the shops give you lots of freebies when you shop- they call it "service." (I used to sell Korean beauty products and skincare, which is why I travelled to Korea so many times.)

If you buy enough, you can even get stuff like a free carry-on luggage bag!

Travel Essentials

• Securing travel insurance gives you peace of mind and covers unexpected medical expenses. Depending on the plan you get, it even help with random accidents, such as my luggage and tripod being broken during the flight!
  • Consider purchasing travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.
  • Carry your insurance information with you at all times.
• debit card or credit cards: these work at depeartment stores etc but note that a lot of Korean websites- such as Busan's Blue Line Park- will not take foreign credit cards.
• Essential travel documents such as passport, IDs, and insurance cards: you don't really have to worry abotu pickpocketing in Korea but never hurts to keep them secure.

Etiquette and Tips

Korea has a lot of traditions, and as visitors to the country, we show respect by adhering to these norms. 

1. An important thing to note is the East Asian practice of removing shoes indoors. It's a sign of respect, and also helps keep the house clean. (So you might want to leave the holey socks at home!) Whether it's a pension (guest house) in the countryside or a traditional tea house in Seoul, this is an expected practice.
2. Personal space is less important here than in the West: I have had a middle-aged Korean lady (Ahjumma) put her hands on me and physically move me out of the way Namdaemun Market in Seoul. So NOT acceptable in the West, but in Korea, you just roll with it!

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

My ultimate Korea packing list would be incomplete without mentioning the following:

• A water bottle: Staying hydrated during your explorations is vital. Korea boasts a great number of convenience stores where you can refill it, saving you much money and a little bit of hassle. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but I always get bottled water when travelling with my elderly relatives. (We got food poisoning in Jeju 10 years ago, and the pension owner (think bed and breakfast) said she thought it was related to the water, because many of her guests fell ill.)
• Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, having cash on hand will make life more convenient, especially if you go to local markets and more rural areas. (For example, it was only in February 2024 that the street vendors of MyeongDong decided to start accepting cards!) I find that I get a better rate of exchange in Myeongdong than in my home country.
• Portable charger: You won't be able to stop yourself from taking hundres of photos in Korea, which will drain your phone battery faster than you might expect. A portable charger for mobile phones ensures you can always consult Kakao or Naver maps, when heading back at the end of the day.
• Adapters for electronics: Korea uses distinct plug types from many countries. Bringing adapters means you can easily charge all your devices, from laptops to cameras, without a hint of trouble. 
• Travel Pillow: you will find this hilarious (or infuriating) but some 5-star hotels in Korea will actually CHARGE you extra if you ask for an additional pillow! If you need a lot of support when you sleep, you may want to consider bringing your own if you don't want to fork out more cash.

Here’s to having an incredible winter adventure in Korea. What are the most important things you bring with you when you travel? If you have any questions about your South Korea packing list, let me know in the comments!