Practical guide to Thailand's craziest celebration — where to go, what to bring, and how to have fun without misery.
Khao San Road (most intense, tourist-heavy), Silom (local and party atmosphere, very wet), Sathorn (tamer), RCA club area (party focus).
Waterproof phone case (essential), change of dry clothes in a waterproof bag, water gun (sold everywhere 50–200 THB), goggles optional but useful.
Camera without waterproofing, wallet (leave cards and cash in hotel safe, carry only what you'll spend), anything that ruins when wet.
Tradition calls for clean water — some revellers add ice, powder, or coloured pigment; gentle about wishing people's faces; motorbikes are dangerous during Songkran.
Visit temples in the morning for the genuine blessing water ritual before the street chaos begins — a completely different, moving experience.
Book well ahead if staying near Khao San or Silom specifically for the festival — rooms fill fast and prices rise noticeably during the three-day holiday window.
Sathorn or a quieter residential area is worth considering as a base if the plan is to dip into Songkran chaos for a few hours rather than being fully immersed all day.