Indonesia is a beautiful country with sandy beaches, some of the best waves for surfing in the world, and an abundance of sea life to discover in its waters.
Whether you are looking to relax or go on an adventure, you can find it all in Indonesia. So when you are thinking of what to pack, follow this complete packing guide!
We cover what to wear in Indonesia, what NOT to bring, and general FAQs. Enjoy your trip!
The weather in Indonesia can be unpredictable, especially during the wet season. If that’s when you plan to travel, be sure to bring a windproof travel umbrella to keep you dry in case of rain. This umbrella is awesome because it’s super sturdy and can fit two people underneath.
Depending on where you’re traveling from, Indonesia might be a long way from home. Prevent the uncomfortable effects of jet lag and make the most of the first day of your trip by taking these homeopathic jet lag relief pills. We bring them along every time we travel overseas!
Many countries in Asia will restrict your access to certain websites like Facebook and Netflix. A VPN will give you access to everything on the internet worldwide, no matter where you are traveling.It will also protect your information from hackers when you connect to Wi-Fi in public places. I had my credit card number stolen overseas on an Airbnb network that I thought was safe. Learn from my mistakes and encrypt your data before you depart!
A neck wallet is an incredibly valuable item to have with you when visiting particularly crowded or touristy places. Keep your important belongings organized and secure by wearing them in this handy pouch around your neck and beneath your clothes. This one’s great because it’s large enough to hold your phone, wallet, passport, and other valuables.
The tap water in Indonesia is not safe to drink, so you’ll likely be tempted to use a lot of single-use plastic water bottles, which are bad for the environment and will end up costing you an arm and a leg by the end of your trip. Avoid this by bringing a reusable water bottle which will filter your water before you drink it. The Grayl is a bit pricey, but the quality reflects it since you’ll be filtering out bacteria illness, e. Coli, viruses, microplastic, sediment, lead, and more. Not worth the risk!
Stay safe while traveling by getting reliable travel insurance. Faye is popular with travelers because they have a variety of plans that cover you for baggage loss, flight cancelation, delays, trip cancelation, and medical bills that would get very costly if you paid out of pocket.
Keep in mind that your domestic provider typically does not cover you overseas, and Faye makes claims a piece of cake since it’s all handled on their mobile app. If something goes wrong, you’ll be thankful for the quick reimbursement. Don’t visit Indonesia without it!
Indonesia uses 220-volt power, which means you may need a power adapter if you are coming from countries like the US or Canada. This universal power adapter includes two USB ports, which means you can charge multiple devices at the same time. This one comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee so it’s literally the last power adapter you’ll ever need to buy.
A lipstick-sized portable charger is a must-bring for your trip to Indonesia. While you’re out and about during the day, you’ll likely be using your camera and phone for photos, videos, navigation, communication, and more. Don’t risk your devices dying at an inconvenient time. Simply bring this external battery with you to charge them on the go.
A microfiber towel is lightweight and takes up little space in your suitcase which is great for traveling. If you have plans to stay in hostels, many will not provide a towel so you will need to bring your own. This towel dries very quickly which makes it super useful to have at the beach or for any water activities.
A sarong has endless purposes while you are traveling and is a fantastic and versatile item to bring with you to Indonesia. It’s a blanket on a plane, a shawl to cover your shoulders for temples and holy sites, a swimsuit cover-up, and even a beach blanket. We never travel without one!
Packing cubes are a great way to keep yourself organized before and during your trip. Avoid overpacking with this handy set of packing cubes, and easily find anything you’re looking for throughout your trip. This set also comes with two bonus cases for laundry and shoes so your clean clothes don’t have to touch any street grime.
Regardless of your plans, you’ll definitely want to bring a good daypack with you on your journey through Indonesia. Leave the majority of your belongings safe at your accommodation, and just take what you need for a day of exploring (umbrella, phone, neck wallet, water bottle, etc.) You’ll want a daypack like this one that’s comfortable, sturdy, and lightweight.
We never travel internationally without our luggage locks. After having items stolen out of our checked bags, we know you can never be too careful. These are TSA-approved, which means security won’t have to use a giant pair of scissors on your new locks! They’re super useful for suitcases, backpacks in crowded areas, public lockers, and more.
You can also use your phone as an underwater camera! During your trip to Indonesia, you’ll likely be spending a lot of time in and out of the water. Make sure your smartphone is protected from the elements by bringing along a good waterproof phone case like this one. Even if you have a nicer camera for quality shots, it will ensure your phone is not damaged by moisture, sand, or scratches.
And to make sure everything floats – This flotation strap attaches to your phone, keys, or any other essentials. Trust us, it’s better than watching your phone sink to the bottom of the Java Sea! And it could get trapped in a sharp coral reef or become unretrievable in murky waters, like when shopping at the markets on the Martapura River. Better safe than sorry.
Pro tip – never travel to warm, tropical destinations without these magical cooling towels. They are a sweet treat that you can wrap around your neck or head to survive the heat. Simply add water, and they will remain 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature for up to an hour! When the chilly effect fades, just add more water. It’ll make long days outside much more enjoyable.
The Indonesian people value honor and modesty. Since you don’t want to stick out like a tacky tourist, carry yourself with grace and humility by wearing a fairly conservative wardrobe. This modest skirt is long but still fun and vibrant to reflect the local culture. Some temples and sacred areas may not allow your passage without a longer skirt below the knee, so this will help you blend in while showing respect.
The majority of your time in Indonesia is going to be spent in sandals so you should bring a pair that is sturdy and comfortable to wear for a long period of time. This pair is a great option because they dry quickly and will offer your feet much-needed support throughout your trip.
Watch the sunrise at Mount Batur, hike through Ubud to the Batuan Temple, and swim with wild manta rays near Bali! Indonesia has some of the most eclectic and spiritual experiences with the best of culture, adventure, nature, history, and food.
We use Get Your Guide to book our global excursions because they have top-notch experiences with flexible cancelation. You can build an epic itinerary and rates are lower when you book in advance.
Indonesia has some stunning beaches and crystal clear waters that you’ll definitely want to take a dip in. Between swimming and surfing, you may stop into a beach bar or find yourself on the back of a moped. On these occasions, you’ll definitely want to throw on a cute cover-up over your swimsuit.
Though Indonesia is known for its delicious and often health-conscious cuisine, there’s still a chance you may eat or drink something that doesn’t agree with you. Prevent an upset stomach and traveler’s diarrhea by bringing activated charcoal to expel the toxins in your system and keep you feeling healthy.
Countertop space can be limited in Indonesian bathrooms, and many hotels will provide a squat toilet (almost like a hole in the ground). This is why a hanging toiletry bag will help you maintain your sanity by creating a built-in shelf. Keep your products confined to this compact case that turns any door, branch, or hook into a convenient storage system that holds all of your skincare, haircare, and makeup.
This one by Eco Sun is our favorite since it’s designed in Hawaii and made with love. It has the perfect amount of comaprtments, bottle holders in pockets so nothing slips and slides, and it comes in some stunning print options. We’re obsessed!
Traveling can leave you sleeping in some inconspicuous places… trains, planes, automobiles, floors, and budget bungalows or hostels! Bringing your own sheets can offer peace of mind against bed bugs or moldy pillowcases. We recommend this set because it’s very compact but still super soft! It’s light as a feather too, which makes it easy to pack up quickly and go.
Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and Japanese encephalitis are still present in Indonesia. Keep your safety at the forefront of your mind by investing in mosquito-repellent. These wristbands keep you protected without having to apply messy, smelly, chemical-filled sprays. They’re comfortable to wear, deet-free, and safe for kids.
You know shopping will be inevitable in Indonesia! So bring a backpack bag that is super lightweight, like this duffel one. It counts as your personal item so you can forgo the carry-on fees (booyah!) and it fits neatly under your plane seat. Be sure to check out local souvenirs that make fantastic gifts – like sarongs, Balinese coffee, batik fabric, crafts, handmade jewelry, organic beauty products, incense, and more.
Indonesia is a tropical, hot climate year-round, which means you should choose clothing that is light, breathable and with moisture-wicking abilities. Materials like cotton, linen, and rayon are great choices.
The most common clothes for women are shorts with a tank or dresses. For men, it is shorts with a tee shirt or tank. Just make sure to have a good pair of sandals with you.
On beaches, bikinis are the most popular choice for women and board shorts for men. A sarong and microfibre towel are also good to bring along. Make sure to protect yourself from the heat by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you plan on doing a lot of snorkeling, it may be worthwhile to bring your own gear.
If you plan on visiting any of the temples in Indonesia, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered.
While exploring busy towns and cities, don’t wear flashy clothing and jewelry. Keep your things protected by wearing an RFID crossbody bag or storing your cash and cards in a money belt.
Women can lean into their femininity when dressing for Indonesia, while keeping it classy and modest. Since the climate is quite humid and tropical, you’ll want to opt for light, breathable fabrics that don’t weigh you down. Cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials are perfect for this.
I always bring a good pair of walking sandals, plus a waterproof pair of tennis shoes for activities that demand covered toes. The sandals will be nice for visiting temples or when you need to easily slip them off, while the tennis shoes will be better suited for jungle hikes or city exploration.
In areas like Jakarta and Bali, casual clothes are fine, but for religious sites and temples, you will want a more modest cardigan, pashmina, and longer skirt. A swimsuit will be perfect for beach days, especially when paired with a cover-up for walking around cafes and local shops. And as for accessories, a sun hat will be a lifesaver on those bright days and sunglasses add such a charm to any look! Don’t forget that the rainy season falls from October to March, and this is when you’ll definitely need a rain jacket.
Similarly, men will want to think easy, breezy, and culturally-aware 🙂 Breathable materials are your friend so opt for lightweight shirts and an array of shorts or nicer pants for when you need to look sharp! We recommend dressing similarly to the way you would at home, with more awareness of the local customs and Muslim-rooted values.
For beach days, you’ll need swim trunks. Fair warning: the sun here can be fierce! So a rash guard with UPF 50+ is a wise precaution. I always pack comfy sneakers and open-toed sandals will be great for visiting temples, people’s homes, or going to the beach. And if you’re visiting during the rainy season from October to March, you’ll want to keep a rain jacket handy.
You will only need one pair of pants and a sweater. The rest should be summer clothes that you can wear for a week. Plenty of cheap laundry service will be available in all hostels.
Many of the roads are unpaved and dirty, so it’s completely unnecessary to lug around heels.
This is a tropical country and you will feel very uncomfortable in clothing made of materials like denim, polyester, and nylon. You won’t regret having a cooling towel to beat the heat.
Bringing expensive things will make you a target for pickpocketing and scammers.
The majority of the country is Muslim and wearing clothes like this will be considered disrespectful and attract a lot of unwanted attention.
If you are visiting in the rainy season, the country is still hot so an umbrella and/or rain poncho will be better.
You never know if your hotel will provide a thick or clean enough towel, but you don’t want to pack your own big, fluffy one from home. Bring a travel towel for beach days, hikes, and an infinite amount of random uses!
Not when a Kindle is so much more lightweight and convenient.
Indonesia has two distinct seasons but can vary a bit depending on if you are visiting in the Northern or Southern region.
The wet season typically begins in October or November and will run during December, January, February, and March. During this time, the average temperatures range between a low of 73.4 °F and a high of 84.2 °F. Although it is the wet season, it normally doesn’t rain throughout the day. Instead, you can expect thunderstorms that will last for a few hours, typically during the early morning or late in the evening. Make sure to pack an umbrella, rain poncho, and water-proof shoes. It’s also good to have a sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings.
The dry season starts typically starts in April and includes the months of May, June, July, August, and September. This is the best time to visit with frequent hot, sunny days and great visibility underwater. This is also peak season where places like Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are flooded with tourists and prices increase. During these months, the temperature ranges from a low of 73.4 °F to a high of 87.8 °F. Make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and bring a hat and sunglasses. Dress in light, moisture-wicking clothing. Shorts and a teeshirt or tank are the most popular choices amongst male and female travelers.
For many countries like the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia, you can enter Indonesia without a visa for 30 days as long as your passport is valid for 6 months beyond the date of your arrival and that you have two blank pages. If visiting from the US, you can read more about travel requirements and alerts on Travel.State.Gov.
In general, Indonesia is a safe country to visit. Scams and theft are common crimes, particularly in Bali and Lombok, so do not leave your valuables somewhere unsafe and just be aware while exploring busy areas. Make sure before your trip to check with your national government advisory for the latest updates.
No, you should drink only boiled or bottled water. We recommend bringing your own filtered water bottle to ward off harmful bacteria and maintain autonomy over your water supply.
The local currency is the rupiah. Make sure to bring cash for your trip, especially if you are going to more remote areas where ATMs are nonexistent. You may need to order this a couple of weeks in advance since banks don’t always have all currencies on-hand.
If you are on a budget and plan to stay in hostels and eat cheap meals budget for $32/day. If you have a midrange budget plan for $70/day and luxury travelers can expect to spend a minimum of $145/day.
Indonesia is known for its surf sites and Lombok is a surfer’s paradise. For beginners, head to Kuta Beach where you will find plenty of surf shops and locals offering lessons.
Everywhere in Ubud, you will find yoga studios and meditation rooms. A popular spot frequented by travelers is The Yoga Barn, which offers a wide variety of yoga and meditation classes, as well as hosting retreats, wellness activities, and even accommodation.
If you are up for some island hopping, either boat or air is best. Just make sure to check the prices because oftentimes budget airlines are cheaper and faster to take than by boat.
Indonesia has a ton of sea life and excellent opportunities for some amazing scuba diving. Some places you should visit if you’ve got scuba diving on your agenda includes Raja Ampat, Wakatobi Islands. Komodo Island. Banda Island, and the Togian Islands. Go from April to October when visibility is at its best.
Tipping isn’t mandatory but some places like nice hotels and restaurants will include a service charge on your bill. If you want to tip, you can add 5-10% off the total bill and just round up in taxis.
Asher has been traveling the world since he left Australia to study in the USA in 2004. He received a Master’s in Business Administration degree in 2013. He has lived all over the globe including India, Europe, Hawaii, and mainland US. He enjoys researching the travel industry, loves being a dad, cooking & eating delicious food, photography (took many of our photos), surfing big waves on Maui, camping trips and walking barefoot on the earth.
