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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Bali, Indonesia

Season-Specific Attire

Dry Season (April to October): Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. Include shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and plenty of Swimwear. A light sarong or cover-up serves well for sun protection during the day or as a modest wrap.

Wet Season November to March

  • The same lightweight clothing applies. Bring a Lightweight rain jacket or a compact Poncho for sudden, heavy downpours.
  • These showers often run brief, so quick-drying clothes offer advantage.
  • Layering is not typically needed; evenings remain warm, so a light long-sleeved shirt might guard from mosquitoes more than for warmth.

Cultural Dress & Activities

Nusa Lembongan presents a relatively relaxed atmosphere compared to more traditional parts of Bali. Show respect when visiting temples or local villages. Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. A sarong makes an ideal item for this purpose. It is versatile as a beach cover-up, a quick wrap for modesty, or even a towel. Women might find a Light shawl useful for covering shoulders when needed.

Activity-Specific Attire

  • Swimming/Snorkeling/Diving: Pack swimwear. A rash guard yields excellent sun protection during prolonged water activities and helps prevent minor stings.
  • Scooter Riding: Consider long sleeves and pants for extended rides. This guards from the sun and offers minor abrasion protection. A helmet is always necessary.
  • Religious Site Visits: Wear a sarong and sash (often provided or rented at temple entrances) to cover your legs. Shoulders should be covered. Formal events are rare; smart casual attire typically suffices.

Footwear Essentials

Flip-flops or Sandals

These are main for everyday wear, beach strolls, and moving around your accommodation. They remain comfortable and easy to slip on and off.

Water or Reef Shoes

These see high recommendation. They shield your feet from sharp coral, rocky beaches, sea urchins, and slippery surfaces when exploring tide pools or entering the water. Durable water shoes yield good protection and grip.

Lightweight Walking Shoes

Bring these if you plan to explore more rugged areas, walk extensively, or visit viewpoints that require some uphill walking. They yield more support than sandals for longer distances.

Essential Documents

Secure Your Travel Papers

Organized and secure documents make for a smooth trip. Always carry originals and have copies stored separately.

  • Passport and Visa: Carry your original passport. Have printed and digital copies of your e-Visa or Visa on Arrival confirmation.
  • Travel Insurance: Bring printed and digital copies of your policy, including emergency contact numbers. This information holds necessity if you claim or access medical assistance.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If operating a scooter, an IDP holds legal requirement for scooters over 50cc. Possession of an IDP offers utility for insurance claims and legal compliance. Obtain this in your home country prior to departure.
  • Vaccination Records & Health Docs: Carry vaccination records. If specific medical conditions or prescription medications exist, bring a doctor's note or prescription. This assists if questioned by customs or for prescription refills.
  • Reservations: Keep printed and digital copies of all accommodation bookings, fast boat tickets, and tour confirmations. A Travel document organizer keeps physical copies together.
  • Emergency Contacts: Create a list of emergency contacts, including family, friends, your country's embassy or consulate, and your travel insurance provider's emergency line. Keep this list accessible, separate from your phone, should your phone be lost or damaged.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: Discounts appear rare on Nusa Lembongan. However, for other parts of Bali, or if you hold such identification, carrying them can occasionally bring discounts at attractions or for certain services.
  • Digital copies are for backup; physical originals remain for official checkpoints.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

While disconnecting forms part of the island charm, some technology serves for navigation, communication, and memory capture.

Power Adapter & SIM Cards

  • Power Adapter: Indonesia uses 230V, 50Hz, Type C/F plugs. A Universal travel adapter sees high recommendation to confirm compatibility with various outlets and for charging all your devices.
  • Mobile Phone & SIM: Most modern smartphones are compatible with Indonesia's GSM network. Ensure your phone is unlocked for a local SIM card. Telkomsel, a popular provider with good coverage, sells SIMs at Bali airport or on Lembongan. Passport for registration.
  • Portable Chargers: Portable chargers and power banks prove valuable for keeping devices charged during exploration or power outages. A High-capacity power bank guarantees multiple charges.

Capturing Memories & Navigation

Camera & Apps

Electronics Retailers

Amazon

Main consumer retail platform for general tech needs.

B&H Photo

Camera and electronics retailer for specialty gear.

NordVPN & ExpressVPN

Consumer VPN services for secure browsing and access. (NordVPN / ExpressVPN)

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Care & Medication

A well-stocked health and wellness kit grants peace of mind and manages common travel ailments. Pack enough prescription medications for your entire trip in original packaging with clear labels. Bring common over-the-counter medications too.

Health Kit Essentials

Sun & Insect Protection

Sun protection and insect repellent are paramount in the tropical climate.

Sun & Bug Kit

Specialized Remedies

Altitude Concerns N/A

  • Nusa Lembongan stands at no high altitude.
  • Altitude sickness does not pose a concern for this destination.
  • Enjoy the sea-level tranquility.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication offers high utility for fast boat transfers from Bali.
  • Waters can turn choppy, especially for those prone to seasickness.
  • Consider tablets prior to your journey if you face seasickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling & Diving

Evaluate renting versus bringing your own equipment.

  • Gear often rents or accompanies tours.
  • Bringing your own quality Snorkel mask and snorkel guarantees proper fit and hygiene.
  • Fins prove bulky to carry, renting makes practical sense.
  • A rash guard yields sun protection.

Surfing & Watersports

Surfboards widely rent on the island. Consider renting rather than bringing bulky items.

  • Surfboards widely available for rent from shops.
  • Bring your own leash and wax if particular.
  • A rash guard also holds utility for surfing.
  • Diving gear: high-quality gear rents from reputable dive shops.

Land Exploration

For island exploration, casual footwear often suffices for easy areas, but for more challenging terrains, appropriate shoes matter.

  • Comfortable walking shoes for informal trails.
  • Renting scooters on arrival makes practical sense.
  • A Dry bag offers high utility for boat trips, safeguarding valuables.
  • Renting for bulky items typically simplifies your travel.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

When to Rent

  • Surfboards: Widely available for rent from shops along beaches.
  • Scooters: Rent on arrival; transporting your own is not practical.
  • Diving Gear: High-quality gear rents from reputable dive shops. For non-professionals, renting simplifies.
  • Fins: These can be bulky; renting proves practical.

When to Bring

  • Snorkel Mask & Snorkel: Quality varies for rentals; bringing your own guarantees proper fit and hygiene.
  • Dive Computer: Certified divers may prefer bringing their own for comfort and familiarity.
  • Rash Guard: Provides sun protection and helps prevent minor stings during prolonged water activities.
  • Dry Bag: Shields electronics, wallet, and valuables from splashes, sand, and accidental water drops during boat trips.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute comfort, security, and convenience to your trip.

Travel Comfort & Safety

  • Comfort Items: Neck pillow, Eye mask for long flights to Bali. These boost comfort during extended travel periods.
  • Security Items: A TSA-approved luggage lock secures checked bags. A Money belt worn under clothing grants a discreet means to carry passport, cash, and credit cards. RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves shield credit cards and passport from skimming.
  • Reusable Items: A Reusable water bottle (many refill stations, aiding money savings and plastic waste reduction). A Reusable shopping bag (useful for markets). A Portable cutlery set serves well for street food.
  • Carry-all: A reliable Backpack for day trips and excursions.

Region-Specific & Local Purchases

Some items are unique to Nusa Lembongan or may prove difficult/expensive to find locally.

Nusa Lembongan Necessities

  • Quick-drying clothing: Key for the humid climate and frequent water activities.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen: Shields both your skin and the delicate coral ecosystems.
  • Cash in small denominations (IDR): Useful for local warungs, small purchases, and tipping.
  • Difficult Local Purchases: Specific prescription or OTC brands you rely on. High-quality diving/snorkeling gear if particular. Specialized dietary items.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Refillable Water Bottle

Lessen plastic waste.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect marine life.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid single-use plastics.

Portable Cutlery

Reduce disposable utensil use.

Affiliate Resources for Packing

Clothing & Gear

  • Amazon: Main consumer retail platform for general clothing and gear.
  • Nordace: Modern travel bag and accessory store.
  • Ensure moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics for the tropical climate.

Tech & Electronics

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light for easy mobility, especially when transferring from fast boats to the beach. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Consider leaving non-essential items at home to lighten your load.