10 Summer Essentials for an Unforgettable Summer in Korea

First things first, be aware of Korea's rainy season - Changma (장마), the legendary rainy season that comes charging in at the start of summer. This is no ordinary rain, folks - a downpour that leaves you going home with soggy sneakers. Bringing flip-flops or versatile sandals is essential to avoid walking around with wet tennis shoes. So before arriving in Korea, pack your rain gear to make a splash in style!

Sunscreen is an absolute necessity when traveling to Korea in the summer. The scorching summer sun of Korea will leave you sizzling if you don't adequately prepare. With the intense heat and UV rays, protecting your skin is vital. Don't let the sun ruin your Korean adventure! Pack sunscreen with a high SPF and apply it regularly to protect your skin from harm. Say goodbye to sunburns and skin problems and hello to a worry-free and enjoyable trip.

While waiting in line outside for that hot new attraction, you'll need a secret weapon - a portable fan! Don't sweat it, though, this handy gadget will keep you cool as a cucumber wherever you go. So, pack up a portable fan and be ready to unleash a refreshing breeze whenever you need it. Plus, you'll blend right in with the locals, as many Koreans tend to carry portable fans during summertime. 

What about clothes, you ask? You'll need to strip down to the bare essentials, my friend, light and loose clothing is the name of the game. Shorts are a must-have to beat the heat, and comfy sneakers are non-negotiable for all the walking you'll be doing. Summer in Korea is hot and humid, so pack light or lose clothes. Opt for shorts to keep calm and comfortable during your trip. 

But remember, you'll also be doing a lot of walking and there are plenty of hills to climb, so make sure to bring comfortable tennis shoes. You'll want to choose a pair that will last you all day, so you can focus on enjoying your adventures without any distractions. With the proper footwear, you can take on any terrain and make the most of your Korean getaway!

Public water fountains are a rarity in Korea, so you must pack your insulated water bottle to keep your H2O chilled and refreshing while you explore the country. This will keep you hydrated and save you from constantly buying water bottles. You'll be the envy of all your friends as you stay hydrated and eco-conscious. No more wasteful plastic bottles  just pure, refreshing hydration within your reach!

For all my textured hair people: bring frizz control! Preparing to battle summer humidity in Korea is like stepping into a sauna! Your hair only stands a chance against moisture if you come equipped with powerful frizz-fighting hair products. Especially during the Changma season, Korea's seasonal changes can wreak havoc on your hair, leaving it frizzy and unmanageable due to the humidity and temperature shifts. Trust us; you don't want to be caught with a wild, unruly mane while exploring the city. So, pack your go-to hair products and tame that frizz like a boss!

You must cover up those shoulders and cleavage to blend in with the locals and avoid awkward stares! In Korea, spaghetti straps and exposed shoulders are a big no-no, including trips to the beach or swimming pools. But fear not, you can still splash at the pool or beach - pack a cute cover-up or trendy rash guard to keep things classy. Save the bikinis and trunks for your private pool parties, and opt for a stylish cover-up or rash guard instead. Remember, cultural differences are essential when traveling abroad!

You will notice a few natural shade areas if you visit busy cities like Seoul or Busan, with many skyscrapers. It's necessary to bring a hat or baseball cap to protect yourself from the sun. Plus, a cool hat can elevate your vacation-style game! Think of it as a chic accessory that doubles as a lifesaver in scorching Korean heat. Whether you go for a classic fedora or a trendy bucket hat, you'll be the envy of all your travel buddies. So, pack your favorite headwear and soak up the sun in style!

Do you know how hot it can get in Korea? Usually, the temperature ranges between 23°C to as hot as 36°C (for the American readers out there, 74°F to 97°F)! The heat is on, and the building's air conditioning is cranked to the max. 

This might sound like a relief at first, but once you've been chilling in that frosty air for a while, you'll start feeling chilly, so it's a good idea to pack a light jacket. It's the perfect solution to keep you cozy while sipping your iced latte in a chilled cafe or browsing trendy boutique shops. 

Believe it or not, most Koreans don't use deodorant! And it's not because they don't care about personal hygiene thanks to a remarkable gene called "ABCC11," the ultimate decider of whether you produce underarm odor. Shockingly, over 97% of people of European or African descent have the version of the gene that causes smelly underarm sweat, while most East Asians don't! 

Even though Korea has begun to import deodorant, the prices for American brands like Secret or Dove can range on the more expensive end, starting at 9,000원 ($7) for a single deodorant stick. So, bring some deodorant from back home to avoid any surprises. With the hot and humid weather, you wouldn't want to risk being the one with an unpleasant body odor. So, pack wisely and stay fresh throughout your trip!