Malang Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

A chronological guide to ensure a seamless journey to Malang.

Planning Timeline

actions to take at several stages before your departure.

3M

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months.

Flight Bookings

Book international and major domestic flights.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

1M

Month Before

Visa Application

Apply for your visa if required.

Accommodation

Book all accommodations in Malang and other places.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of travel dates.

1W

Week Before

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of all documents.

Packing List

Finalize your Packing list with essentials.

Home Preparations

Organize your mail, pet care, and reserve your home.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these important elements of your trip well ahead of time.

Reservations

International and domestic flights to/from Malang or Surabaya.
Hotels, guesthouses, or villas for your entire stay.
Major tours (Mount Bromo, Ijen Crater) or private transfers.
Train tickets for travel between cities within Java.

Pre-Trip Research Topics

Gain a understanding of your destination before you get there.

Knowledge to Acquire

Indonesian and Javanese cultural etiquette for courteous exchanges.
Malang's must-try dishes and local food sanitary practices.
Attractions, including opening hours, entry fees, and specific requirements.
Your government's advice for travel to Indonesia.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Practical steps to ensure peace of mind while you're away.

Security

Make sure doors and windows are locked.
Set up security systems if available.
Consider smart lighting or timers.
Notify a trusted neighbor.

Utilities & Services

Turn off what you don't need appliances.
Adjust thermostat settings.
Arrange for mail collection or stop deliveries.
Pause newspaper subscriptions.

Pet Care & Contacts

Organize pet-sitting or boarding.
Leave itinerary and contacts with a trusted person.
Ensure emergency contacts are accessible.
Provide spare access to a trusted individual.

Health Preparations

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations and schedule appointments well in advance. Gather an adequate supply of prescription medications plus have a doctor's letter for controlled substances.

Arrival Checklist

Immediate steps upon arrival to Malang for a comfortable start to your trip.

First Steps & Connectivity

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration (VoA if needed), collect luggage, and clear customs.
2
Currency & SIM Card
Withdraw local currency from an ATM and purchase a local SIM card at the airport.
3
Transportation to Accommodation
Arrange transport via pre-booked service, taxi, or ride-sharing apps.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

Hotel Check-in
Check into your lodging and make a request for a local map and recommendations.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a short walk to familiarize yourself with local amenities (stores, eateries, ATMs).
Initial Purchases
Purchase bottled water immediately; tap water is not safe to drink.

Apps & Offline Resources

Download Essential Apps

Download Gojek, Grab, Google Maps, Google Translate prior to your departure.

Set up accounts and familiarize yourself with their functions.

Offline Maps & Language

Download offline maps for Malang and East Java on Google Maps.

Download the offline Indonesian language pack for Google Translate.

Local Information Access

Visit a tourist information center upon arrival for current events or additional maps.

Ask hotel staff for local knowledge and recommendations.

Ride-Sharing Pick-Up

Be aware of particular ride-sharing pick-up points within airports or train stations. These spots are sometimes designated to manage traffic flow.

Departure Preparation

Arranging your leaving prevents last-last-minute stress, ensuring a smooth exit from Malang and Indonesia.

Souvenirs & Luggage

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.
Inquire about shipping alternatives at a local post office for large items.
Weigh your luggage to comply with airline weight limits.
Repack or adjust luggage as required.

Timing & Return Trip

Arrive at Malang (MLG) for domestic flights 1.5 - 2 hours before departure.
For Flights abroad from Surabaya (SUB), arrive 2.5 - 3 hours before.
Arrive for train departures 30-45 minutes before.
Reconfirm return flights or train tickets 24-48 hours before departure.

VAT Refunds

Indonesia does not offer a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists.

Not Applicable

VAT refunds are not accessible to tourists.
Therefore, this step is not relevant to your departure.
Focus on alternative departure preparations.
No action is needed regarding VAT.

Final Departure Steps

Plan your transport from accommodation to the airport or bus station in advance.
Plan to spend any remaining local currency or exchange it before leaving.
Complete online check-in where possible to save time at the airport.
Ensure passport, boarding passes, and travel documents are easily accessible.

Customs Regulations

Be aware of customs regulations for your home country regarding items you bring back.

This prevents issues upon re-entry.

Malang Travel Checklist

Next Up: Malang Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Malang Travel Checklist