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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Indonesia

Season-Specific Attire

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.

Recommendations

  • Dry Season (May-Sep): Mostly light clothing. Include a light sweater for cooler highland evenings.
  • Wet Season (Oct-Apr): Lightweight rain jacket or Compact umbrella.
  • Layering: Essential for temperature changes between Medan and highlands (Berastagi, Samosir).

Cultural Dress & Activity Attire

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.

Specific Needs

  • Religious Sites: Shoulders and knees covered (men and women).
  • Hiking/Trekking: Sturdy hiking shoes, long pants/sleeves for protection.
  • Swimming (Lake Toba): Bring Swimwear for cool, clean lake waters.

Footwear Recommendations

General Walking

Comfortable sandals (Teva, Birkenstock), flip-flops, or breathable Walking shoes for cities and towns.

City, towns, casual use.

Hiking

Hiking boots or trail shoes with good ankle support and grip for uneven terrain.

Treks, jungle paths.

Water Activities

Water shoes or sturdy sandals for activities near water or on beaches.

Lake, beaches, wet conditions.

Essential Documents

Useful Papers

Keeping important documents secure and accessible forms a main aspect of travel preparation. Make both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport (original + copies): Valid for 6+ months from entry.
  • Visa Documentation: Printed copy of e-visa approval, if applicable.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Printed and digital copies with emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If driving a car or motorbike.
  • Vaccination Records: Yellow Fever certificate if required.
  • Prescription Meds: List of medications and doctor's note.
  • Reservations: Flight, accommodation, pre-booked tours (printed & digital).
  • Emergency Contacts: Local emergency numbers, embassy, bank contacts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

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.

Mobile Phone & SIM Cards

  • Ensure phone is unlocked for international SIM cards.
  • Telkomsel (widest coverage) and XL Axiata (good in urban areas) are main providers.
  • Passport is needed for SIM card registration.

Cameras & Chargers

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.

Portable Power & Apps

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for backing up photos and copies of important documents.

External Drives

An External hard drive or USB stick provides a redundant backup, especially for numerous photos.

Device Security

Ensure your phone is unlocked for international SIMs. Consider VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked personal First aid kit prepares for common travel ailments and conditions specific to North Sumatra's climate.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

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.

Essential Protectors

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication (Dramamine) for winding roads to Lake Toba or Berastagi.
  • Useful for boat travel on Lake Toba if prone to sea sickness.
  • Long bus journeys also warrant this consideration.

Altitude Concerns

  • Altitude sickness is not a major concern for most, as high altitudes are not sustained.
  • Mild symptoms might occur on volcanic treks like Mount Sibayak.
  • Consult your doctor about remedies if you are sensitive to altitude changes.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking/Trekking

For Mount Sibayak and Bukit Lawang jungle.

Snorkeling/Swimming

For Lake Toba activities.

Camping/General

Limited for tourists, but if applicable.

  • Lightweight tent, Sleeping bag, sleeping pad.
  • Rent: Motorbikes/scooters easily available.
  • Bring: Quality hiking boots, reliable headlamp, personal Water filter.
  • No specific specialty items unique to bring for North Sumatra.

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Items to Rent

  • Motorbikes/scooters: Easily rentable in tourist areas like Samosir Island and Berastagi.
  • Snorkel gear: Can be rented at Lake Toba.
  • Basic camping gear: If you only need it for a short period and space is limited.
  • Casual clothing: Readily available to buy if you run short or wish to travel light initially.

Items to Bring

  • Good quality hiking boots: Quality and fit are important for comfort and safety.
  • Reliable headlamp: Local options may be limited or lower quality.
  • Personal water filter: For reducing plastic waste and ensuring clean water.
  • Specific toiletries or medications: For sensitive skin or allergies.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

A few extra items improve comfort, security, and convenience during your North Sumatra trip.

Reusable Items & Essentials

These items help reduce waste and enhance your travel experience.

Sustainable Travel

Items Difficult to Find Locally

Quality Hiking Gear

Specific boots or specialized repellent.

Specialty Toiletries

For sensitive skin or specific allergies.

Specific Chargers

Unique device chargers may be scarce.

Specialized Camera Parts

Extra batteries or memory cards for specific models.

Destination-Specific

Bukit Lawang Jungle

  • Strong insect repellent (e.g., DEET-based).
  • Quick-dry clothing.
  • Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes.

Lake Toba / Samosir Island

  • Swimwear and a fast-drying towel.
  • International Driving Permit for motorbike rental.
  • Book or entertainment for relaxation by the lake.

Packing Pro Tips

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.