USEFUL TRAVEL TIPS

What to Pack for Your Trip to Indonesia

Planning a trip to Indonesia? Here’s a comprehensive packing list that takes into account the tropical climate, diverse cultural customs, and the wide range of activities you might enjoy from beach lounging to volcano trekking.

1. Clothing (Lightweight & Culturally Appropriate)

T-shirts and tank tops made of cotton or linen (breathable materials).
Shorts for hot days and exploring towns.
Lightweight pants (linen or cotton) for evenings and temple visits.
Long skirt or long dress for women—ideal for cultural sites.
Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and air-conditioned spaces.
Compact raincoat or poncho – especially useful during the rainy season (November to March).
Scarf or shawl – handy for modesty when entering religious sites or protection from sun.

2. Footwear

Comfortable sandals for walking around town or at the beach.
Hiking shoes or trail runners for treks and nature walks (especially in places like Mount Batur or the rice terraces).
Flip-flops for the beach, hostel showers, or casual strolls.

3. Swimwear & Beach Essentials

At least two swimsuits.
Sarong or quick-drying towel (microfiber preferred).
Hat or cap for sun protection.
Sunglasses with high UV protection.
Dry bag to keep electronics safe during water activities.

4. Personal Care & Hygiene

Sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher).
After-sun gel (aloe vera).
Mosquito repellent (preferably with DEET or picaridin).
Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.
Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo).
Menstrual hygiene products, if applicable (may not always be readily available).
Toilet paper or tissues (public restrooms may not have these).

5. Outdoor & Adventure Gear

Daypack or small backpack for day trips.
Reusable water bottle (preferably with a filter).
Headlamp or flashlight – essential for early morning hikes or power outages.
Snorkel and mask (optional, but handy if you’re island-hopping or diving).
Waterproof phone pouch for island and beach trips.

6. Travel Documents & Essentials

Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival).
Visa (Visa on Arrival is available for many nationalities – check requirements before departure).
Travel insurance (with emergency medical coverage and evacuation).
Vaccination record/booklet (some vaccines may be required or recommended).
Credit/debit cards + small amounts of cash (preferably in IDR).
Universal travel adapter (Indonesia uses type C and F plugs, 220V).
Portable charger/power bank.

7. Health & Medical Kit

Always consult your doctor before travel.

First-Aid Basics:

Band-aids, gauze, and antiseptic wipes
Antibacterial ointment
Tweezers, medical tape, and scissors (if flying, pack scissors in checked baggage)
Blister plasters

Medications:

Pain relievers (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Antihistamines (for allergies or bites)
Anti-diarrheal medicine (e.g., loperamide)
Motion sickness tablets
Electrolyte sachets or tablets
Prescription medications (in original packaging, with prescription note)
Antibiotics (if prescribed in advance by your doctor)

Extra Health Considerations:

Insect repellent (especially in areas with dengue or malaria risk)
Hydrocortisone cream (for bites or rashes)
Mosquito net (for rural stays without good window screens)

8. Vaccines & Preventive Measures

Recommended vaccines:

Routine vaccinations (DTP, MMR, influenza)
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Rabies (for rural stays or animal exposure)
Japanese Encephalitis (for extended rural stays during rainy season)
Malaria prophylaxis: may be needed in specific rural or forested areas (consult a travel health professional).

9. Practical Extras

Travel journal or notebook to document your journey.
Book or e-reader for long transit times.
Camera or smartphone with storage for photos.
Record local emergency numbers and contact information for the nearest hospital or clinic.
If you have any specific health concerns, carry a card explaining your condition in English and, if possible, in Bahasa Indonesia.
Emergency contact list, including:
- Travel insurance provider
- Local embassy or consulate
- Local hospitals or clinics
- Important contacts back home

Final Tips

Pack light – laundry services are widely available.
Respect local customs – modest dress is appreciated, especially in temples.
Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be mindful of food and water safety.
Buy local SIM card for easy navigation and communication (Telkomsel or XL are good choices).

Feel free to download our travel tips brochure for more detailed information. Enjoy your trip to Indonesia, and travel safely!