Scarf for Winter Travel to Japan or Europe: What to Pack from Bangkok

As the year-end travel season gets closer, we often get the same question at our shop at Chatuchak from people living in or visiting Thailand who are about to fly somewhere cold, such as Japan, Korea or Europe: "What kind of scarf should I bring?"

Here is our honest advice, including what our scarves are good for and when you will need something heavier.

First, be realistic about the cold

Winter in places like Hokkaido, northern Europe or the Alps can be properly cold, with snow and strong wind. A thick wool or fleece scarf, a warm coat, gloves and a hat are the foundation for those trips. Check the weather forecast for each city you visit and plan around it.

Our scarves are cotton or polyester, and our plain scarves are pashmina-style. They are not heavy winter wool. Where they shine is in layering, and in the many in-between moments of a winter trip.

Where a lighter scarf really helps

On the plane

Long flights from Bangkok can be cold. A large shawl works as a blanket, a neck pillow cover or a light layer you can wrap and unwrap easily.

Indoors and on public transport

Trains, shops, museums and restaurants are often heated. Many travellers end up overheating in a thick scarf. A lighter scarf under your coat is easy to remove and stuff in a bag.

In mild winter cities

Cities with milder winters may only need a coat and a medium scarf on many days. Layering two lighter pieces gives you flexibility as temperatures change through the day.

For photos

A bright or patterned scarf adds colour to dark winter coats in travel photos.

How to layer scarves for winter

• Base layer: a thin scarf close to the neck, tucked inside your coat

• Outer layer: a thicker winter scarf over your coat on the coldest days

• Spare: a large shawl in your daypack for the plane, cold indoor spaces or an extra layer

Which of our products are useful for winter trips?

• Large 130 x 130 cm shawls (200 THB each, 3 for 550 THB): the most versatile choice for the plane and as an extra layer.

• Plain pashmina-style scarves: available in 31 colours for wholesale orders, good for matching a neutral coat. Ask us on LINE.

• Cotton scarves (100 THB, buy 10 get 1 free): light and easy to pack as a neck layer or a gift for friends at your destination.

See more about the differences in our guide to scarf types and prices in Bangkok, and learn quick styles in How to Tie a Scarf: 8 Easy Ways.

Buying for a group trip or tour

If you are organising a group tour, a company trip or a family holiday, matching shawls make it easy to spot your group in crowded stations. Our wholesale pricing starts from 30 pieces, and you can mix designs and colours.

Where to buy before you fly

Our Section 6 shop near Gate 18 is open Friday to Sunday 9:00–20:00. Our Section 13 shop is open Tuesday to Thursday 9:00–17:00 and Friday to Sunday 9:00–18:00, handy if you fly out midweek. Find directions to our Chatuchak shops, browse the online shop, or ask about Grab delivery within Bangkok.

FAQ

Is a cotton scarf warm enough for Japan in winter?

On its own, usually not for very cold days. Use it as a layer under a thick winter scarf and coat.

Are your plain scarves real pashmina?

They are pashmina-style scarves. Ask us on LINE for material details.

What is the best scarf for a long flight?

A large shawl is the most versatile, as it works as a blanket and a scarf.

Can I order before my departure date?

Yes. Message us on LINE (gib-atale) with your date and we will check stock.