If you're traveling to Bangkok, here are the latest COVID-19 rules, the best time of year to visit, and important items to pack

• If you're planning a trip to Bangkok, Thailand, be aware of COVID-19 and other local advisories.
• Travelers must show proof of health insurance and anyone unvaccinated must submit a negative PCR test.

Thailand is a country that heavily relies on tourism, and changing restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted locals immensely. After several iterations of quarantine programs, Thailand is now considered fully open to travelers.

Currently, masks are required in Bangkok indoors, outdoors, and in vehicles, and you could be fined for not complying. They're required for those aged two years and older. Some public spaces can be quite poorly ventilated.

International flights

As of May 1, Thailand's hotel quarantine programs have ended for vaccinated travelers. PCR testing either prior to or upon arrival is also no longer required. You will still need to apply for a Thailand Pass via the designated website before travel (no less than two weeks is advised) and show proof of a COVID-19 insurance plan for approval. Thai insurance companies AXA and ASQ offer inexpensive, government-accepted options. More information is available here.

Domestic flights

Flying domestically in Thailand is straightforward. You will likely be asked to show your Thailand Pass upon arrival and departure.

If you're vaccinated

Those who are vaccinated may apply for the Thailand Pass by submitting proof of vaccination, insurance, flight itinerary, and a scan of their passport photo page.

The online portal is free and you will receive a QR code by email within a few days. You may be asked for a paper copy upon arrival, so keep a couple with you to avoid queuing at airport printing stations.

If you're unvaccinated

Those who are unvaccinated will need to apply for the Thailand Pass with the same above documents plus register for a five-day quarantine program and provide a PCR test no older than 72 hours before their departure date.

When's the best time to visit Bangkok?

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Bangkok is among the world's hottest cities with temperatures normally ranging around 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

As someone who has lived in Bangkok full-time for years, I think the cool season between November and February is the best time to visit. March and April are sweltering months, and most of your time will be spent in pools and air-conditioned spaces like shopping malls. The wet season runs from May to October, and while monsoon rains only last for an hour or so at times, logistical challenges arise from storms. The streets can flood up to knee-length and traffic becomes a mess.

If you're spending time outdoors in Bangkok, pack layers (the air conditioning in taxis and malls can be a shock to the system), drink lots of water, and wear sunscreen.

View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Bangkok, Thailand.