Whether you’re travelling for 2 weeks or 2 months, backpacks are often the most convenient type of luggage to take with you when you’re planning to visit multiple locations. If you’re planning a backpacking trip to Indonesia, you’ll probably be hopping from island to island and covering a wide variety of activities from climbing volcanoes to relaxing on the beach. Keep reading to find out exactly what you should and shouldn’t be packing!
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What to pack on an Indonesian backpacking trip
There are a number of things to consider when you’re packing for your trip to Indonesia, like your itinerary, the weather and religion. If you’re visiting a bunch of locations across Indonesia, chances are you’ll encounter quite a few different terrains and landscapes, from jungles to volcanoes to beaches – you’ll want to ensure that you’re well-equipt for all of these. Indonesia is known for being quite humid, especially compared to what we’re used to in Europe. Stick to light, breathable materials like linen and opt for baddy items when you can – this will allow you to stay as cool as possible when you’re out and about.
It’s also important to keep in mind religion while you’re travelling across Indonesia. Much of the population are Muslims, and so are the gorgeous temples you’re no doubt planning to visit. Although more touristy areas like Bali are generally okay with showing skin, try to cover your shoulders and knees when you visit religious sites to show your respect to the locals.
Clothes
• T-shirts/tank tops – V-neck shirts that are loose but cover your shoulders are a great way to dress conservatively but also stay cool in the heat. Tank tops are perfect to chuck on as you explore during the day.
• Long sleeve shirts – These are perfect for keeping your skin protected from the heat as well as mosquitos. Airy, natural materials like linen and cotton are ideal.
• Long bottoms – Baggy trousers and maxi skirts are perfect when you’re wandering around cities and paying visits to temples, as they cover your knees but can keep you cool in the heat. They’re also a great option for the evenings if you hit up some of the hipster restaurants in Bali.
• Shorts – These are perfect to wear as pyjamas or to the beach as they’ll keep you cool. Stay away from tight shorts and denim, as you’ll find they’re too hot.
• Underwear – If you’re travelling to Indonesia with The Dragon Trip, your hostels will have laundry services, so you don’t need to bring underwear for every day you’re away.
• Swimming costume – There’s no way you can go on a backpacking trip in Indonesia and not visit the beach!
• Lightweight waterproof – Great if you get caught in a spot of rain in the city, as well as while trekking in the jungle. Opt for a compact, travel waterproof so it doesn’t take up much room in your day bag.
• Sensible walking shoes – Lace up trainers that you know will be comfortable for activities and lots of walking are absolutely essential, especially if you’re hiking up volcanoes.
• Flip flops/sandals – Flip flops are super handy for wearing around your hostel, to the shower or popping to the beach.
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Toiletries
• Mosquito repellent – Nothing ruins your mood more than constantly itching mosquito bites! Be prepared and bring a travel-sized bottle with you so you’re covered from day 1, then stock up from a local corner shop.
• Hand sanitizer – Great to pop in your bag so you can clean your hands when you stop for some delicious street food. There’s a plethora of options on a backpacker trip to Indonesia.
• Toilet paper/tissues – Many Indonesia public toilets are not kitted with toilet paper, so it’s useful to have your own roll or a pack of tissues. You can restock throughout your travels, so one packet to get you started is sufficient.
• Deodorant – If you’re travelling with check-in luggage, keep in mind that bottles and sprays must be until 100ml.
• Shampoo and conditioner – If you’re used to a particular brand or need it to stop your hair from being a frizzy mess, it’s best to bring travel bottles with you.
• Sanitary items – You’ll be able to find these at local supermarkets, but it’s a good idea to pack some anyway.
• Anti-diarrhoea treatments – Anti-diarrhoea tablets and rehydration salts are key for making sure you stay healthy while travelling in Indonesia. Even if you don’t get Bali Belly, it’s a good idea to add at these to your water to stay hydrated in the heat.
• Sunscreen and moisturiser – Sun safety people!
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Extras:
• Travel towel – These will take up a lot less room in your backpack than a regular towel, and they’re fast drying, which is great for when you’re not spending much time in one place. Essential on a backpacking trip to Indonesia when there’s so much to see and do.
• Small day bag – You won’t always want to be carrying around your full-size backpack, so a small everyday bag is useful to carry all your important items with you.
• Purified water bottle – As tap water isn’t safe to drink in Indonesia, you’ll need to buy bottled water. If you want to save on the plastic, a bottle like this can purify any water and make it safe for drinking!
• Padlock – A small padlock for your backpack is useful for when you’re leaving your things at your accommodation during the day.
Necessities:
• Travel insurance – You can buy and claim online, even after you’ve left home. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from 140 countries. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. There’s plenty of options for these on a backpacking trip to Indonesia.
• Photocopies of important documents – This includes your insurance policy, bank cards, passport photo page and visa (if you’ve applied for one in advance).
• Travel money – You can withdraw more cash in your home currency from ATMs while travelling for little to no commission, just be sure to let your bank know you’ll be using it abroad.
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What not to pack
Many of the urban areas you visit, like Yogyakarta, Ubud and Canggu, will have bustling markets and bazaars full of gorgeous local products for you to purchase. Keep in mind that haggling is common across Indonesia, so if you don’t see a price listed, be prepared to barter with the shopkeeper.
• Sarongs – These are great to wrap around yourself while you’re at the beach, or when you need to cover up to enter a temple. It’s a good idea to have a sarong with you in your day bag in case you find your plans changing and want to visit a temple but aren’t dressed appropriately.
• Scarves – These are perfect to drape over your shoulders or head when you need to cover up or protect yourself from the sun.
• Jewellery – It’s advised not to bring expensive jewellery with you in case they get lost or broken. If you love wearing jewellery, you’ll be able to find cheap, colourful options in the markets.
• Valuables or expensive electronics – As with any backpacking adventure, valuable items and electronics should be brought at your own risk.
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Your one-stop packing checklist:
CLOTHING
☐ Flipflops
☐ Sensible walking shoes
☐ T-shirts/tank tops
☐ Shorts/skirts
☐ Long bottoms
☐ Pyjamas
☐ Swimming costume
☐ Lightweight waterproof
☐ Jumper/sweater
TOILETRIES
☐ Towel
☐ Washbag
☐ Toothbrush/toothpaste
☐ Shampoo/conditioner
☐ Mini hairbrush
☐ Suncream and aftersun
☐ Sanitary items
OTHER
☐ Passport
☐ Local currencies or credit/debit card
☐ Student card if you have one
☐ Travel insurance policy
☐ Photocopies of insurance policy, bank cards, passport photo page, visa
☐ Camera and charger
☐ Travel adaptor
☐ Small first aid kit with medicine for diarrhoea, paracetamol, disinfectant etc.
☐ Small rucksack to keep your valuables with you during day trips
Keen to go on a backpacking trip to Indonesia? Check out our Indonesia solo group tours. Alternatively, drop us a message in the chat box below or send us an email at info@thedragontrip.com to find out more!
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