Indonesia
A chronological guide for your journey.
Check your passport's expiration date. It must stay valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into Indonesia. Renew if needed.
Research Indonesia's visa requirements for your nationality. Determine if you need a Visa Exemption, Visa on Arrival (VoA), or an e-VoA. Apply for any visas if not eligible for visa-free entry.
Book your international flights to Bali (DPS) or Lombok (LOP). Booking well in advance often brings better prices.
Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations for Indonesia.
Book your fast boat tickets from Bali or Lombok to Gili Air.
Plan any specific day trips or activities (e.g., dive courses, multi-day treks on Lombok) and make reservations if needed.
Begin packing your bags, focusing on light, quick-drying clothes suitable for Gili Air's tropical climate. Lightweight and organized packing supplies from Eagle Creek can be helpful.
Arrange your airport transfers on Bali or Lombok (e.g., taxi, ride-share) from the airport to the fast boat harbor.
Download essential apps like Google Maps (with offline maps), Google Translate (with Indonesian language pack), and WhatsApp.
Secure your trip's foundation.
Knowledge for a smooth journey.
Ensure your home matters are in order before departure.
Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts. Arrange for pet care, mail collection, and bill payments. Secure your home.
Your Gili Air arrival. Settle in efficiently and comfortably.
Complete these procedures at your arrival airport (Bali or Lombok).
If not already done, purchase a local SIM card at the airport (Bali/Lombok) for mobile data.
Use an ATM to withdraw Indonesian Rupiah for immediate expenses.
Upon arrival at Gili Air harbor, take a moment to get your bearings. Walk around the immediate harbor area to orient yourself to the main strip of restaurants and dive shops.
If you need more cash, use the ATMs on the island. Make initial purchases like bottled water or insect repellent from local shops.
From Gili Air harbor, walk or take a cidomo (horse cart). Negotiate the price before starting the ride.
Be mindful of luggage weight if you purchase many souvenirs. For larger items, shipping options are available from Bali or Lombok. Inquire at local postal services.
Check your home country's customs regulations for restricted items, especially for natural products or crafts. VAT refund procedures are generally not applicable for tourists in Indonesia.
Reconfirm your fast boat departure time from Gili Air. Arrive at the Gili Air harbor at least 30-45 minutes prior to your scheduled fast boat departure. For public boats, arrive early to secure a spot.
Allow ample time for transfers from the fast boat arrival point to your airport in Bali or Lombok. Factor in potential traffic delays, especially in Bali.
Reconfirm your onward or return flights at least 24-48 hours before departure. Ensure all your travel documents (passport, flight tickets, boarding passes) are in order and easily accessible.
Pack your luggage efficiently, keeping any liquids in your checked bag if required by airline rules. Enjoy a final breakfast or walk on the beach before heading to the harbor.
For international flights, try to be at the airport 2-3 hours before departure.
Smoothly conclude your island experience.
Final checks for a smooth journey home.
Your memories from Gili Air will last a lifetime.
Safe travels on your onward journey!
