Weather Comparison
Bangkok vs Koh Samui
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Bangkok vs Koh Samui
| Metric | Bangkok | Koh Samui | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 33°C (91°F)▲ | 27°C (81°F) | Bangkok |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 26°C (79°F)▲ | 24°C (75°F) | Bangkok |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 21 days▲ | 22 days | Bangkok |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 135 mm | 115 mm▲ | Koh Samui |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 82% | 82% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 8 | 8 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 15 km/h▲ | 20 km/h | Bangkok |
Which City is Better in May?
Bangkok and Koh Samui are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
Bangkok can feel quite hot at 33°C, so plan for heat. Koh Samui is also comfortable at 27°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Bangkok is the stronger choice in May.
Temperature Comparison in May
Bangkok reaches an average high of 33°C (91°F) and drops to 26°C (79°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Koh Samui averages 27°C (81°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. There is a notable 6°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Bangkok receives approximately 135 mm of rainfall across 21 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Koh Samui sees 115 mm over 22 rain days. That makes Bangkok the drier option by 1 rain day and 20 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
What to Pack: Bangkok vs Koh Samui
Packing for Bangkok in May
Highs of 33°C, lows of 26°C, 21 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Koh Samui in May
Highs of 27°C, lows of 24°C, 22 rain days
- ✓light layers
- ✓a light jacket for evenings
- ✓sunscreen
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: Bangkok vs Koh Samui
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Bangkok | Koh Samui | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 31°C | 3d | 25°C | 11d |
| Feb | 32°C | 3d | 25°C | 6d |
| Mar | 34°C | 6d | 26°C | 10d |
| Apr | 35°C | 11d | 27°C | 12d |
| May | 33°C | 21d | 27°C | 22d |
| Jun | 32°C | 22d | 27°C | 19d |
| Jul | 32°C | 23d | 27°C | 18d |
| Aug | 31°C | 24d | 27°C | 18d |
| Sep | 31°C | 26d | 26°C | 22d |
| Oct | 30°C | 21d | 25°C | 26d |
| Nov | 31°C | 7d | 25°C | 22d |
| Dec | 31°C | 2d | 25°C | 14d |
Bangkok Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Koh Samui Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities