The Thai Songkran Festival is here again! Here are 5 "survival tips" you need to know!

Every yearin Thailand

Photo by Madeleine Deaton

during the Songkran Festival in April, just like our Lunar New Year or Brazil's Carnival, is a world-renowned celebration. As the name suggests, water fights are a given. This year's Songkran is fast approaching, and Fever Travel has rounded up 5 "survival tips" to help everyone fully enjoy this joyful festival.

1) Use public transportationBangkok

has long been plagued by traffic congestion, which worsens during the Songkran Festival. Moreover, as the festival coincides with the traditional Thai New Year, many taxi drivers return to their hometowns, making it harder to find cabs. While there might be slightly more tuk-tuks available, riding them during Songkran is definitely a high-risk activity—you're very likely to get soaked.

2) Bring ample waterproof gear and skip the fancy outfit

Since it's the Songkran Festival, getting splashed is unavoidable, so don’t get upset about getting wet. To fully enjoy the festivities, avoid dressing up too fancily—opt for lightweight, casual clothing instead. It’s a good idea to bring an extra set of clothes for changing if needed. At the same time, make sure to equip yourself with sufficient waterproof gear. You can buy waterproof bags at local convenience stores to store your phone, wallet, and other essentials. For added peace of mind, you can hang the bag around your neck, but be mindful of your belongings due to the crowds. As for cameras, it’s better to bring a compact one—otherwise, a sudden splash of water could ruin your device.

3) Beware of having your "weapons" confiscatedIf a thermos flask can be mistaken for a listening device, then water guns are definitely considered dangerous weapons. So sometimes,in

Thailand,

the BTS and MRT may have rules prohibiting the entry of "weapons," and Songkran is no exception. If you buy a water gun in advance, it might be confiscated before you even board. So if you want to join the water fights, it’s safer to buy one on-site when you arrive at the action!

4) Must-try street food: Ice water rice salad

During the Songkran Festival, many food trucks take to the streets. These mobile street food vendors are definitely worth a try. One unique option is the Khao truck, serving ice water rice salad. Since Songkran coincides with the traditional Thai New Year and the arrival of summer, many local restaurants and food trucks offer this traditional dish called Khao. It’s rice served with icy water, pickled vegetables, and other cool ingredients. Taste is secondary—going with the flow and trying local specialties is part of the fun!5) Spread blessingsAfter all, Songkran is

Thailand'straditional New Year, so why not learn a few Thai phrases to send blessings to the locals? You can say: "Sawasdee Pee Mai" (which means "Happy New Year").During the Songkran Festival,various cities inThailandhttp://www.dcfever.com/travel/attraction.php?id=11253

host celebrations, and Khao San Road inBangkokis the most popular spot for tourists. Known as a backpacker paradise, Khao San Road is a hub of budget hostels, street food, and art, and it’s also very close to the Grand Palace. That’s why it’s loved by so many travelers. More travel info about Khao San Road:
http://www.dcfever.com/travel/world.php?id=1014