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What to Pack for Canggu

What to Pack for Canggu

Canggu Indonesia Travel Guide

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon. These materials dry quickly and feel comfortable in the humidity. For the Dry Season (May to September), pack mostly light clothing. A light long-sleeved shirt or Shawl has utility for Sun protection during the day or for slightly cooler evenings. For the Wet Season (October to April), quick-drying materials offer particular benefit. A lightweight, packable Rain jacket or a Small umbrella has value for sudden downpours.

Cultural Considerations

  • Layering usually serves for sun protection or modesty at temples.
  • At temples, shoulders and knees require covering. Sarongs and sashes are often available for rent.
  • Swimwear is appropriate on the beach/pool but not in towns or restaurants.

Activity-Specific Attire

For hiking or exploring, lightweight, breathable clothing and Comfortable walking shoes are suitable. When swimming or at the beach, pack Swimsuits, board shorts, and consider a Rash guard for sun protection during surfing or long swims. For religious site visits, a sarong and sash are mandatory. Wear respectful attire covering shoulders and knees. For formal events at upscale restaurants, smart casual attire generally suffices.

Footwear Guide

Footwear Summary

Daily Comfort

Flip-flops or open sandals are the main footwear choice for Canggu's warm climate and beach access.

Easy to slip on and off

Exploration & Walks

Bring comfortable closed-toe shoes or sneakers for longer walks or light exploring around town.

Support for varied terrain

Water Activities

Water shoes offer protection for rocky beach entries or coral areas if planning to snorkel or surf.

Protects feet in water

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Always have both physical and digital copies of your travel documents.

  • Original passport valid for 6 months beyond departure.
  • Physical or digital e-VOA confirmation.
  • Copy of return or onward flight ticket.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driving license (if driving).
  • Travel insurance policy details and emergency contacts.
  • Vaccination records or significant medical history (has value in emergency).
  • Printed and digital copies of all reservations (hotel, flights, tours).
  • Emergency contact information (home, embassy, insurance).

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Mobile

Indonesia uses 230V, 50Hz, with Type C and Type F (two round pins) plug types. A Universal travel adapter offers compatibility. Most modern electronics are dual voltage (100-240V). Most unlocked smartphones are compatible with Indonesian networks. SIM Cards are readily available at Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) or official provider stores (Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo) in Canggu. Telkomsel generally holds the best coverage.

Connectivity Tips

Cameras & Apps

A Smartphone camera often suffices for casual photos. For higher quality, consider a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens from retailers like B&H Photo. A GoPro works well for water activities. Extra batteries and memory cards offer value. Portable chargers and power banks have utility for keeping devices charged, with a High-capacity power bank highly recommended.

Essential Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps, Maps.me (offline maps).
  • Ride-hailing/Delivery: Gojek and Grab.
  • Translation: Google Translate (offline Indonesian pack).

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for backing up photos and important documents.

External Drive

Bring an External hard drive or USB stick for additional photo backup.

Security Measures

Consider a RFID-blocking wallet for credit card protection and Padlocks for luggage.

Health & Wellness

Personal First Aid

A well-stocked Personal first aid kit and appropriate health items have value for a trip to Canggu, aiding in common travel ailments and sun exposure management. Pack basics like Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze pads, medical tape, and pain relievers (Ibuprofen or paracetamol).

Medication Advice

  • For stomach issues: anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium) and rehydration salts.
  • Carry all prescription medications in original labeled containers with documentation.
  • Over-the-counter medications: pain relievers (Tylenol), cold/flu remedies, antacids.

Sun & Insect Protection

The UV index is high. Use high SPF Reef-safe sunscreen, wear hats, seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM), and stay well hydrated. High DEET content (20-30%) or Picaridin in Insect repellent (Strong insect repellent) stands as effective against mosquitoes. Apply it regularly, especially at dawn and dusk. Altitude sickness is not a concern; motion sickness Remedies are useful for boat trips or winding road journeys.

Hygiene & Hydration

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Considerations

  • Canggu and Bali itself are low-altitude destinations.
  • Altitude sickness typically has no concern for visitors.
  • No specific altitude-related medications are applicable.

Motion Sickness on the Go

  • Boat trips to nearby islands (e.g., Nusa Islands) may present waves.
  • Winding roads, especially inland, can induce motion sickness.
  • Consider packing over-the-counter motion sickness remedies.

Activity Gear

Surf Essentials

If not renting, a personal board, leash, wax, and rash guard are items to pack. Many surf schools and shops offer rentals readily.

  • Rentals are widely available.
  • Rash guard for sun protection.
  • Surf schools provide boards.
  • Consider a Rash guard.

Underwater Gear

Masks and snorkels are widely available for rent with tours. A compact Travel snorkel set has utility for comfort and hygiene if preferred.

  • Snorkel gear rentals with tours.
  • Personal Mask and snorkel for hygiene.
  • Diving gear from dive shops.
  • Not necessary to bring for casual use.

Yoga & Trekking

Many yoga studios provide mats, but a lightweight Travel yoga mat has utility if a personal mat is preferred. A Lightweight daypack is helpful for carrying water and essentials during hiking.

Equipment Considerations

Good to Rent

  • Surfboards: Easily rentable in Canggu, often with lessons.
  • Scooters/Motorbikes: Widely available from accommodations or rental shops.
  • Snorkel/Dive Gear: Available for rent at tour operators and dive shops.
  • Camping Gear: Not common for general tourism. Rent if planning specific treks like Mount Batur.

Good to Bring

Miscellaneous Items

Comfort & Security

For long flights, a Travel neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs have utility. For scooter rides, a Light scarf or buff protects from dust and sun. A Padlock serves for hostel lockers. A Money belt or hidden pouch (RFID blocking money belt) carries valuables discreetly. An RFID-blocking wallet protects credit card information.

Everyday Carry

Eco-Conscious Travel

A Reusable water bottle holds value for hydration and plastic waste reduction. Many places offer refills. A Reusable shopping bag serves for markets and groceries, as plastic bags find discouragement or bans. A Reusable utensils/straw set aids eco-conscious dining, especially at street food stalls.

Items to Consider Bringing from Home

  • Specific prescription medications: Ensure enough for the trip.
  • High-quality Sunscreen/ Insect repellent: Specific brands might be limited or more expensive locally.
  • Specialty camera gear/electronics: Batteries, specific lenses, and other accessories can be harder to find or cost more.
  • Anti-theft bags and travel security products from Pacsafe.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste; many refill stations available.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries, avoiding single-use plastics.

Reusable Utensil Set

For eco-conscious dining, especially with street food.

Dry Bag

Protects electronics from water during beach or boat trips.

Destination Specific Items

Bali Cultural Items

  • Sarong: A versatile item for temple visits (mandatory), beach cover-up, or light blanket.
  • Sun Hat: Offers protection for your face from the intense tropical sun.
  • Waterproof Phone Pouch: For keeping your phone dry near beaches or pools.

Convenience & Comfort

  • Small Flashlight or Headlamp: Utility for power outages or navigating dimly lit areas at night.
  • Hydration Multiplier Packets: To replenish electrolytes in the heat.
  • Phrasebook/Translation App: For basic communication with locals beyond tourist areas.

Smart Packing Advice

Pack light and choose versatile clothing items. Laundry services are readily available and affordable in Canggu, allowing for fewer clothes in your luggage.

Consider packing cubes to organize your belongings and maximize space in your luggage.