Indonesia
Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking synthetics) are ideal due to high humidity and consistent temperatures. They dry quickly, a plus during the wet season.
Modesty is valued, especially outside major tourist areas. Dress respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public spaces. A Lightweight sarong or Shawl is versatile for modesty and more.
Comfortable sandals (Teva, Birkenstock), flip-flops, or breathable Walking shoes for cities and towns.
Hiking boots or trail shoes with good ankle support and grip for uneven terrain.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals for activities near water or on beaches.
Keeping important documents secure and accessible forms a main aspect of travel preparation. Make both physical and digital copies.
Indonesia uses Type C and Type F sockets (two round pins). Standard voltage is 230 V, frequency is 50 Hz. A Universal travel adapter is highly suggested. Check device voltage compatibility.
For general travel: A Compact mirrorless camera like the Sony Alpha a6700 or a high-quality Smartphone. For adventure: A durable, Waterproof action camera like GoPro HERO12 Black.
Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for backing up photos and copies of important documents.
An External hard drive or USB stick provides a redundant backup, especially for numerous photos.
Ensure your phone is unlocked for international SIMs. Consider VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.
A well-stocked personal First aid kit prepares for common travel ailments and conditions specific to North Sumatra's climate.
High temperatures and strong sun are typical. Stay hydrated. Use High-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear a Wide-brimmed hat. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 is a good choice.
For Mount Sibayak and Bukit Lawang jungle.
For Lake Toba activities.
Limited for tourists, but if applicable.
A few extra items improve comfort, security, and convenience during your North Sumatra trip.
These items help reduce waste and enhance your travel experience.
Specific boots or specialized repellent.
For sensitive skin or specific allergies.
Unique device chargers may be scarce.
Extra batteries or memory cards for specific models.
Lay out all your items before packing to visualize what you are bringing. This prevents overpacking and confirms you have everything needed.
Consider using packing cubes to organize your clothes and gear, making it easier to find items and fit more into your luggage.