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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Indonesia

Clothing for the Seasons

Gili Trawangan's tropical climate means lightweight, breathable clothing is useful year-round. Natural fabrics offer comfort. Layering beyond a light cover-up for evenings or air-conditioned spaces is generally not necessary, as temperatures remain consistently warm.

Seasonal Recommendations

  • Dry Season (May-Sept): Pack light cotton or linen clothing, shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops.
  • Wet Season (Oct-April): Similar light clothing, plus a Lightweight rain jacket or Compact umbrella for sudden showers.
  • General: Pack for comfort and quick drying due to humidity.

Cultural & Activity Attire

On Gili Trawangan, the dress code remains relaxed due to its tourist-centric nature. Swimwear is acceptable on beaches and around pools. However, if you venture into local villages away from the main tourist areas, or if you plan a day trip to a mosque on Lombok, respectfully cover your shoulders and knees.

Specific Dress Codes

  • Water Activities: Swimsuits, board shorts, and Rash guards for sun protection.
  • Cycling/Walking: Comfortable shorts or light trousers, t-shirts.
  • Religious Sites (Lombok): Long pants or skirts, covered shoulders.

Footwear Recommendations

Beach & Casual

Sandals or flip-flops work well for beach strolls and general walking around the island.

Easy movement

Cycling & Active

Comfortable sandals or light Sneakers suit cycling the island's paths.

Island exploration

Water Protection

Water shoes are useful for rocky beach entries or walking on coral to protect your feet.

Reef safety

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping important documents organized and accessible prevents problems during your trip. Make copies and store them separately from originals.

  • Carry your original passport (valid 6+ months beyond entry).
  • Printed or digital copy of e-Visa or VoA confirmation.
  • Printed or digital copy of return or onward flight ticket.
  • Copies of travel insurance policy, including emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is only for Lombok scooter rentals.
  • Copy of vaccination record; doctor's note for prescription medications.
  • Printed and digital copies of all accommodation bookings and boat tickets.
  • List of emergency contacts: family, embassy/consulate.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Gili Trawangan offers connectivity, and proper electronic preparation contributes to seamless use. Indonesia uses 230V at 50Hz with Type C and Type F plugs. Bring a Universal travel adapter. Modern smartphones are compatible with Indonesian networks. Ensure your phone is unlocked for a local SIM card.

SIM Card Options

  • Major providers: Telkomsel (best coverage), XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo.
  • Purchase SIM cards at airports (Lombok/Bali) or local shops on Gili Trawangan.
  • ESIM options are increasingly available from some providers (e.g., Airalo).

Cameras & Chargers

A standard digital camera or your Smartphone will capture beautiful island photos. A Waterproof action camera, like a GoPro, is highly recommended for snorkeling and diving. Pack extra batteries and memory cards to avoid missing shots. Portable chargers and power banks are recommended for potential power outages or limited electrical outlets. A High-capacity power bank keeps your devices charged throughout the day.

Useful Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps (download offline maps).
  • Translation: Google Translate (offline Bahasa Indonesia pack).
  • Communication: WhatsApp (widely used locally).

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for backing up photos and important documents. This protects your memories and information in case of device loss or damage.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi. Providers like NordVPN or ExpressVPN offer privacy. B&H Photo has camera accessories.

Physical Security

A small padlock for hostel lockers or luggage, and an RFID blocking wallet for credit cards, add security.

Health & Wellness Items

Essential First Aid

A well-stocked health and wellness kit addresses common travel ailments and minor injuries. A basic Travel first aid kit is recommended.

Kit Contents

Medications & Protection

Carry all prescription medications in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription or a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances. Pack cold and flu remedies, and antacids.

Protection Essentials

Motion & Altitude Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication is relevant for fast boat transfers, which can be choppy.
  • Pack Motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness.
  • Choose larger boats for a smoother ride, if available.

Altitude Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern on Gili Trawangan itself.
  • It becomes a factor if you plan to trek Mount Rinjani on Lombok.
  • Consult a doctor for advice on Rinjani treks.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling & Diving

While gear is easily rentable, bringing your own Well-fitting mask and snorkel set ensures comfort and hygiene. Fins are useful but not required for casual snorkeling from the beach. Dive centers provide equipment, but certified divers may prefer to bring their own Dive computer or mask for familiarity and comfort.

  • Rent gear easily on island
  • Own mask/snorkel for comfort
  • Certified divers: own computer/mask
  • Reef shoes for marine protection

Yoga & Cycling

If you plan frequent yoga sessions, consider a lightweight Yoga mat or a Travel towel. Bicycles are widely available for rent from numerous shops and accommodations across the island. Renting on arrival is standard. For the Gili Trawangan Hill walk, Comfortable walking shoes are sufficient.

  • Lightweight yoga mat/towel
  • Bicycle rental widely available
  • Comfortable walking shoes for hill
  • No special hiking boots needed

Unique Essentials

A Waterproof dry bag is highly useful for boat trips, beach days, and protecting electronics from splashes or rain. Reef shoes are recommended for walking on coral or rocky parts of the beach. These protect your feet from sharp coral or sea urchins. A small Flashlight or Headlamp is recommended for walking at night as some paths are unlit.

  • Waterproof dry bag for electronics
  • Reef shoes for foot protection
  • Small flashlight for unlit paths
  • International debit/credit card

Rent vs. Buy Decision Matrix

Consider Renting When:

  • Item is bulky or heavy to transport (e.g., dive gear).
  • You use the item only for a short period (e.g., bicycle).
  • Rental costs are significantly lower than purchasing.
  • Local availability of quality rental items is high.

Consider Bringing When:

  • You have specific fit or comfort needs (e.g., own mask, prescription snorkel).
  • Local availability of specific brands or quality is uncertain.
  • The item is small, lightweight, and used frequently (e.g., Portable charger).
  • The item is difficult or expensive to purchase locally (e.g., specific medications).

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond clothing and electronics, a few miscellaneous items enhance comfort and security during your Gili Trawangan trip.

Essential Additions

Eco-Conscious Items

These items promote sustainability and convenience during your island stay.

Sustainable Travel

  • Reusable water bottle (refill at stations to reduce plastic waste).
  • Reusable shopping bag (avoid single-use plastic bags).
  • Reusable cutlery set for street food or take-away meals.
  • Items that may be expensive or hard to find locally: specific brands of medications, contact lens solution, specialized gear.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill and hydrate responsibly.

Foldable Shopping Bag

Reduce plastic waste for purchases.

Bamboo Toothbrush

An eco-friendly alternative.

Rechargeable Batteries

For cameras and flashlights.

Destination-Specific Items

Island Life Essentials

  • Reef shoes: Protect feet from coral and sea urchins.
  • Quick-dry towel: Ideal for beach and water activities.
  • Snorkel mask: A personal fit improves underwater experience.

Nighttime & Connectivity

  • Small flashlight/headlamp: Essential for unlit paths after dark.
  • Local SIM card or eSIM: For reliable data and calls.
  • Portable beach mat: For comfort on sand.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize your luggage efficiently.

Pack a smaller daypack for excursions, keeping your main luggage at your accommodation.