What to Pack for Your Trip to Indonesia:
- Roxana Nothaft
- Dec 17
- 4 min read
The Country Forbes Called the Most Beautiful in the World
Read the full article on Forbes' website here
Indonesia Travel Packing Checklist
In our last blog post, we talked about the country that Forbes named one of the most beautiful in the world: Indonesia. With its turquoise waters, wild jungles, dramatic volcanoes and cultural heart, it is easy to understand why it topped the list and captured the hearts of so many travelers.
But once the destination is decided, the next big question comes up: what should you actually pack for a trip to Indonesia?
Whether you are planning to explore Bali’s beaches, hike volcanoes in Java or island hop through remote paradise, packing smart will make your journey smoother, lighter and much more enjoyable.
Light and Breathable Clothing
Pack:
Indonesia’s tropical climate means heat and humidity almost all year round. Focus on airy, comfortable fabrics that keep you cool.
Loose t shirts and tank tops - Comfortable and breathable for hot, humid days; ideal for sightseeing or beach wear.
Lightweight shorts and skirts - Perfect for keeping cool; choose quick-dry fabrics if you plan on water activities.
Flowing dresses - Great for both comfort and style; easy to wear in the heat and suitable for casual dinners.
A long sleeve shirt for sun protection - Lightweight and breathable, helps protect against strong UV rays during outdoor activities.
A light jacket or hoodie for air conditioned spaces - Useful for cooler evenings, restaurants, or transport with strong air conditioning.
If you plan to visit temples or traditional villages, bring clothes that cover shoulders and knees out of respect for local culture.
Picture taken in the Ubdu - Bali
Shoes for Every Adventure
Provide different options
Comfortable sneakers, Flip flops or sandals– Hiking shoes for volcano treks or jungle adventures. Do not underestimate hikes and treks, and make sure you have proper footwear from the start. Especially waterfall hikes often involve crossing small rivers, so you should wear shoes that are suitable for getting wet.
Water friendly sandals are perfect for waterfalls and boat days. Indonesia has incredibly beautiful beaches, but they are not the same everywhere. In many regions – especially in Bali – there are strong tides with noticeable high and low water. Especially for small children, it is advisable to wear water shoes, as many beaches have stones and coral that can make entering the sea more difficult.
Tropical Essentials
Do not forget:
The sun is strong and the humidity is real in Indonesia.
High SPF sunscreen. ou should bring at least SPF 30 sunscreen. If you are coming from a long winter, also pack SPF 50. Make sure to choose a sunscreen that is safe to use in the ocean, and research this in advance. After sun care or aloe vera for the evenings is also absolutuely recommendet.
Strong insect repellent. A small personal first aid kit, Electrolytes or rehydration tablets.
A compact microfiber towel is also incredibly useful for island hopping and spontaneous swims.
Travel Documents and Tech
Important:
Your passport and document copies, you can prepare the photos and documents that are required for hotel check-ins in advance at home, add a watermark, and safely show your documents without worry.
Travel insurance details (It’s best to have them prepared in English as well.)
Credit card and small amount of cash maybe in Dollar
For daily adventures, hikes, or island hopping, bring a small daypack. It’s perfect for carrying essentials like water bottle, sunscreen, towel...
Universal travel adapter
Water filter: Bottle, UV light, or tablets
Power bank
SIM card or eSIM prepared in advance, we have a 10% code from Airarlo for our customers, which is included in the travel handbook when the documents are provided.
Download essential apps in advance: Currency converter, translator, taxi app, offline maps – this way you’ll be well prepared and can use everything easily on the go.
Digital backups on your phone or cloud are highly recommended!
Beach and Island Extras
Indonesia is world famous for its beaches and underwater life.
Nice to have : Snorkel mask, Dry bag, Waterproof phone case, Reusable water bottle, Light sarong or beach blanket.
A sarong is one of the most versatile items you can bring to Indonesia. You can also pick one up on-site as a souvenir, so it becomes a lovely keepsake from your trip.
Final Thought
& Tipps
Indonesia is relaxed, colorful, and full of surprises. The good news is that you can buy almost everything locally if you forget something.
When it comes to luggage, consider your itinerary: if you’re mainly switching between islands, hotels, or cities, a suitcase can work. For destinations like the Gili Islands or more remote beaches, also if you plan on several hotel changes, it’s better to pack light or use a backpack — otherwise, you might end up dragging your suitcase through sand. Make sure to plan ahead and organize transportation if needed.
Pack light, choose versatile items, and leave space in your bag for things you will fall in love with along the way.
With the right mindset and packing list, you are ready to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
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