Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Pack lightweight, breathable, loose-fitting clothing from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo. These materials suit the heat and humidity. Quick-drying items are useful.
Bring similar lightweight clothing. Additionally, include a Lightweight rain jacket or a compact Poncho. While downpours often pass quickly, staying dry during sudden showers contributes to comfort.
Sturdy walking shoes, Sneakers, or closed-toe sandals with good grip are recommended.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals that get wet and offer good traction are useful.
Comfortable walking sandals or flip-flops work well for town exploration.
Carry printed and digital copies of important papers.
Thoughtful choices regarding your electronics see connectivity and convenience. Power reliability varies, especially in rural areas.
DSLR or Mirrorless camera for high-quality images. Action camera like GoPro for water activities. Extra batteries, memory cards, Dry bag. B&H Photo for gear needs.
Cloud storage (Google Photos, Dropbox) for backing up photos and documents. Portable hard drive for large photo files. Protects memories if devices are lost or stolen.
Offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me), Google Translate (offline pack), WhatsApp for local communication. Weather apps for forecasts.
Local pharmacies are basic; specific brands prove difficult to find.
Sumba is hot and sunny; mosquitoes carry diseases.
A small, lightweight Daypack for water, snacks, camera. Trekking poles optional for stability.
While gear is rentable, bringing your own Mask and snorkel set ensures proper fit and hygiene. Fins are optional.
Bring your own board if you have a specific preference and are willing to travel with it. Otherwise, some accommodations or local surf camps in areas like Tarimbang Rent boards.
Beyond the basics, a few miscellaneous items enhance your comfort, security, and overall Sumba experience.
Protect your belongings and personal information.
Reusable water bottle cuts down on plastic waste.
Reusable shopping bag avoids single-use plastic.
Reusable utensils for street food.
Reef-safe sunscreen protects marine ecosystems.
Pack light, but pack smart.
Specific medications (prescription or less common OTC), high-quality sunscreens, insect repellents, and specific toiletries are better brought from home.