What to Bring to a Korean Spa (Complete Checklist)

Introduction

Korean spas (known as jjimjilbangA large Korean bathhouse and spa complex with heated sauna rooms, baths, and communal lounge areas — often open 24 hours. Families and friend groups frequent these for a full day out.) are one of the most relaxing, restorative experiences you can treat yourself to. But if you've never been, walking in unprepared can feel a little overwhelming. What do you wear? What do you bring? What's already provided?

Whether you're a first-timer or a regular, this guide covers everything you need to pack for a great Korean spa day. We've also added a few things you can confidently leave at home.

The Korean Spa Packing Checklist

The Essentials

1. Your ID (and payment)- Most Korean spas charge an entry fee at the door — typically between $25–$45. Also, bring a valid photo ID, cash (some spas are cash-only or charge fees for card payments), and a little extra for add-on services like body scrubs, massages, or food from the snack bar. You can only tip in cash for add-on services.

2. Hair Ties / Clips / Comb / Brush- Essential for keeping your hair up in the hot tubs and steam rooms. Bobby pins work too — just make sure they're rust-resistant. I would also suggest a comb or brush.

3. A Reusable Water Bottle- You'll be sweating! Staying hydrated is crucial. Most spas have water stations, so having a bottle to refill makes it easy to drink throughout your visit.

Leave At Home

1. Personal skin care, shampoo, and soaps- Most jjimjilbangs provide basic soap and shampoo since they require you to shower before using the facilities. They do not permit you to bring your own.

2. Razor- Most Korean Spas provide a disposable razor and shaving cream to use.

3. Bathing Suit / Swimsuit / Swimming Trunks- Korean Spas are typically nude only in gender separated areas. For co-ed areas, they will provide a pair of shorts and a t-shirt (uniform) for you to use. You are not permitted to wear street clothes inside the spa.

4. Jewelry- It can get lost, tarnished, or damaged in steam and hot water. Leave it at home.

5. Expensive electronics- Your phone will be safe in a locker, but leaving pricey gadgets behind reduces stress.

6. Strong perfumes or colognes- You're sharing enclosed spaces. Keep it neutral.

What's Usually Provided (Don't Overpay)

One of the best things about Korean spas is how much they include in the entry fee. At most locations, you can expect:

• Spa uniform (short-sleeved shirt and shorts in a unisex color) — worn in the co-ed common areas

• Towels — for the wet areas

• Lockers — with a key or wristband

• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash — in the shower areas

• Hair dryers — usually available near the sinks

• Basic skincare (toner, lotion at some locations)

Always check your specific spa's amenities page before your visit, as offerings vary.

First-Timer Tips

1. Shower before entering the baths- This is mandatory at most Korean spas — not optional.

2. Work your way up to the hottest rooms- Start with milder saunas and work up to the intense ones like the bulgamaA kiln-style charcoal sauna dome (불가마) — one of the hottest rooms in the spa, used in short sessions for deep sweating and detoxification. (clay kiln sauna) to avoid dizziness.

3. Try the body scrubA seshin-style treatment where a skilled technician uses an Italy towel to vigorously exfoliate your entire body — one of the signature experiences at a Korean spa. service- If you've never had a Korean (exfoliating scrub), it's an experience worth adding. Most spas offer it for an additional $30–$50 and it leaves your skin incredibly smooth. If you get one, it'll be in the gendered spaces and you'll be nude (with a small towel covering you) throughout. Be prepared: They clean everywhere! Afterwards, you'll have the smoothest skin you've had in ages.

4. Plan for at least 3–4 hours- You won't want to rush. Korean spas are designed for long, slow relaxation.

5. Drink water constantly- Between the sauna rooms and hot baths, dehydration can sneak up on you.

Final Thoughts

A Korean spa day is one of life's great simple pleasures — equal parts detox, rest, and cultural experience. With the right preparation, you can walk in relaxed and leave feeling completely restored. The list above covers everything you'll need, so you can focus on what matters: enjoying every steamy, soothing minute.