Use this official checklist to prepare for your TEFL course in Bangkok. Bring your original legalised & notarised degree (with apostille), make sure your passport has at least 12 months' validity if you plan to work, and pack smart for the classroom and life in the city.
Buy travel insurance; check passport ↔ degree name match; scan documents to secure cloud.
~14/30 days
T-7 days
Pack classroom attire & teaching shoes; confirm airport transfer / first MRT route.
~7/30 days
Arrival Day
Buy SIM/eSIM; get MRT card; check in; course welcome.
Day 0
Essential documents
Original legalised & notarised degree certificate (with apostille) bring the physical document; scans/photocopies are not accepted. The name must exactly match your passport (all given names).
Passport — at least 12 months' validity if you intend to work in Thailand (your Non-B visa/work permit can't extend beyond passport expiry).
Any teaching certificates (e.g., PGCE/QTS) and official transcripts (if available).
(Optional) Basic police/background check from your home country.
Printed & digital backups keep scans in secure cloud storage and carry paper copies in your hand luggage.
Lightweight trousers/skirts (skirts below the knee).
Short- or long-sleeve shirts/blouses (no sleeveless in class).
Smart, closed-toe shoes suitable for standing/teaching.
Tie (many schools expect men to wear one).
Light blazer/cardigan for formal events/air-con rooms.
Belt and simple, professional accessories.
Note: Larger/taller sizes can be harder to find—bring enough sets from home.
Everyday items
Light casual clothing for days off.
Rain jacket/compact umbrella (rainy season May - Oct).
Comfortable walking shoes/sandals.
Reusable water bottle.
Health & personal
Up-to-date vaccinationsfollow GP/travel-clinic advice. If needed, vaccinations can be arranged in Thailand at major hospitals (e.g., Bangkok Hospital).
Prescription medications + doctor's note.
Basic first-aid kit (plasters, pain relief, antiseptic, hand gel).
Sunscreen (often pricier locally).
Toiletries (bring preferred brands if specific).
Tech & adapters
Unlocked smartphone (for local AIS/True/DTAC SIM or eSIM).
Laptop/tablet for planning and assignments.
USB drive/portable SSD (backups) + power bank.
Plug adapters — Thailand 220V/50Hz; sockets commonly accept Type A/C, some Type B.
Money & banking
Debit/credit cards enabled for international use.
5,000–10,000 THB cash for the first few days.
Wise/Revolut (or similar) for lower-fee transfers and ATMs.
Helpful for lessons (personal touches)
Photos of family/friends/pets — great ice-breakers.
Travel photos from your home country/places you've visited.
Small postcards or souvenirs from home (optional props).
