Thailand’s winter starts officially on Oct 23 this year. Unfortunately, the perennial PM2.5 dust and smog problem usually acompanies the cooler weather. Here are some tips and cool gadgets to help deal with it.
PM2.5 dust pollution is a lingering problem that has plagued Thailand since at least 2019. It is well documented and is caused by, among other things, the burning of crop trash, vehicle exhaust fumes, electricity generation and industrial processes. But we are not here for a discussion about what causes it, or how to fix it. We are here for tips and to explore cool gadgets to help deal with the smog on a day-to-day basis in the land of smiles.
General tips
Check air quality on websites like www.iqair.com, or apps like Air4Thai and AirVisual.
On bad-air days, limit your outdoor activity, especially outdoor exercise such as jogging, biking and hiking.
Close your windows or mosquito screens to limit dirty outdoor air.
Wear proper PM2.5-ready masks outdoors
Wear glasses outdoors.
Stay hydrated, eat well, exercise.
Rinse your nose every now and then.
Clean your house: cat fur, dog hair, book dust, cooking fumes easily accumulate and will affect your respiratory system.
Sensitive people should consider using an air purifier in the house.
Plant trees and other greenery.
Cool gadgets
Air purifier of choice, depending on your room or health condition.
Portable ionizers can be great for people who go out often.
Any popular Thai inhaler can make your breathing easier.
Indoor exercise video games, such as Ring Fit adventure () or Fitness Boxing (), or Nintendo SwitchS Sports will keep you fit without the need to expose yourself to the dust outside.
I hope that even though days of dust and smog loom over Bangkok city, these tips and gadgets make it easier to cope with.