Souvenirs worth packing: Warorot market finds that are anything but tacky

Intricately designed belts and necklaces that look too grand for casual wear – but actually aren't. Traditionally layered over the pahtoong wrap skirt, these pieces translate surprisingly well into everyday outfits and have become the latest fashion trend among the trendiest of Thais. A silver belt worn with a white tank top and jeans makes it the focus of the whole look and will have people asking where you found it. They’re also great for date nights or a special event where you want to dress up a bit more. If a belt feels like too much, layer up with bangles in gold and silver instead – easier to wear, but an equally good conversation starter.

Prices vary starting from B50. Zone 2 in Warorot Market, Atu Accessories and Silverware. 6am-5pm

Made locally by the Hmong tribe, these blue and white hand-painted table runners are something you genuinely won't find overseas. Perfect for when you’re hosting something a little special, the kind of thing that catches people's attention at a dinner party and tells a story without you having to say much. Not a host? They also do cushion covers and coasters for a smaller but equally good reminder of the trip. 

Prices vary starting from B100. Underground level in Warorot Market. 6am-5pm

You've probably seen plenty of woven bags at this point, but there’s one booth in Kad Luang that really stands out for its range in design and shape. The neutral brown tones make them easy to match with everyday outfits – not just something to carry around Thailand but practical enough to use back home too. The bucket-style bags are the pick of the bunch and totally in vogue – roomy enough to actually fit your things and with enough pattern variety to keep browsing interesting.

Prices start from B39, bags from B220. Booth number B-027 in Warorot Market. 6am-5pm

If the bags weren't enough, there's woven everything else here too. Walking around the market, you’ll find no short supply of straw hats, sticky rice containers sold by the bulk, sandals, handheld fans and coasters – whether it’s the craftsmanship behind each piece or just the unique convenience of the product, there’s almost always something here that suits even the most difficult of gift receivers. The sticky rice containers in particular are a very Chiang Mai buy that you won't find easily elsewhere, and work just as well as a piece of decor as they do stuffed with rice.

Sticky rice containers start at B17. Booth number 1A043 in Ton Lam Yai Market. 7.30am-5.30pm

The sea of elephant pants and white cotton tops at markets can get exhausting quickly – this spot is a welcome change. Linen pieces, made right in front of you by the makers themselves, in wrap-style tops with neutral colours or subtle floral patterns that stay on the right side of tasteful, while still staying very ‘Chiang Mai’ in their story. The fabric is light and airy – ideal for summer and practical enough to wear long after you've left. Although not the only shop selling such items, Si Tong is the one to go to – a family business passed down through many generations, each piece shows their love for detail and craftsmanship. 

Prices vary. Si Tong, 42 Wichayanon Road. 8am-5.30pm

Did someone say chocolate? Forget the duty-free brands (although you can snag this at Chiang Mai International Airport too if you don’t have time), Siamaya does local chocolate very well. It’s also very creative, incorporating local flavours like coconut curry and durian, but in a way that actually makes it taste good. The bestseller is khao soi, a northern Thai staple transformed into a sweet treat. The chocolate combines spicy and salty tastes with sweet undertones that really works. In addition to this are flavours like banana, Thai tea and tom yum. Although a risk, if you know who you’re buying for, free samples will help you make the right choice. 

From B195. 128/130 Thapae Road, Chang Moi. Open 10am-8pm

WIN is a reliable one-stop shop for Asian and Thai cosmetic brands at prices that make stocking up easy. There's always a sale or bulk deal running, making it a good place to buy multiples of whatever you've been struggling to find back home. Also useful for travel-sized skincare and makeup if you've run out of something mid-trip or want to try a new product without committing to the full size. Sure, it's a bit more commercial than the rest, but nothing says ‘Thailand’ like a big pile of indecipherable creams and lipsticks.

Prices vary. WIN Cosmetics, multiple locations, this one is at 99/101 Kuang Men Road. 8.30am-6pm