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What to Pack for Sumba

What to Pack for Sumba

Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Dry Season Packing

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.

Dry Season Essentials

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics.
  • Light colors reflect sunlight.
  • Light scarf for sun protection.

Wet Season Additions

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.

Wet Season Must-Haves

Footwear for Sumba

Village & Light Trekking

Sturdy walking shoes, Sneakers, or closed-toe sandals with good grip are recommended.

Uneven paths and dirt tracks.

Waterfalls & Beaches

Water shoes or sturdy sandals that get wet and offer good traction are useful.

Rocky beaches or slippery paths.

General Daily Wear

Comfortable walking sandals or flip-flops work well for town exploration.

Easy strolls and relaxing.

Essential Travel Documents

Required Documentation

Carry printed and digital copies of important papers.

  • Vaccination records and doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Printed/digital copies of flight, accommodation, tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact list (family, embassy).
  • Student/senior/press IDs (rarely offer discounts).

Technology & Connectivity

Power & Plugs

Thoughtful choices regarding your electronics see connectivity and convenience. Power reliability varies, especially in rural areas.

Power Details

  • Voltage: 230V, 50Hz. Check device chargers for "INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60Hz".
  • Plug Types: C (two round pins) and F (two round pins with grounding clips).
  • Universal travel adapter highly recommended.

Mobile & Internet

Airalo eSIMs for quick connectivity. Ensure your phone is unlocked for a local SIM. Telkomsel SIM cards offer the best coverage.

Connectivity Tips

  • Unlocked phone for local SIM.
  • Telkomsel for best coverage.
  • Passport for SIM registration.

Camera & Data

Camera Gear

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.

Data Backup

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.

Recommended Apps

Offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me), Google Translate (offline pack), WhatsApp for local communication. Weather apps for forecasts.

Health & Wellness Travel

Medications & First Aid

Local pharmacies are basic; specific brands prove difficult to find.

Personal Medicine Kit

Sun & Insect Defense

Sumba is hot and sunny; mosquitoes carry diseases.

Protection Plan

Water & Food Safety

Drinking Water

Food Hygiene

  • Eat at reputable establishments with good customer turnover.
  • Opt for freshly cooked and hot food.
  • Peel fruits yourself.

Activity Specific Gear

Hiking & Trekking

A small, lightweight Daypack for water, snacks, camera. Trekking poles optional for stability.

Snorkeling & Swimming

While gear is rentable, bringing your own Mask and snorkel set ensures proper fit and hygiene. Fins are optional.

Surfing

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.

  • Personal surfboard (optional).
  • Surf wax.
  • Leash.
  • Sun protection.

Rent vs. Buy Gear

Consider Renting

  • Surfboards, basic Snorkeling gear (masks, snorkels, fins), basic camping equipment (if tour organized).
  • Check quality of rental gear before committing.
  • Good for short-term use.
  • Travel gear available for purchase.

Consider Bringing

Miscellaneous Travel Needs

Travel Comfort

Beyond the basics, a few miscellaneous items enhance your comfort, security, and overall Sumba experience.

Comfort Essentials

Safety & Security

Protect your belongings and personal information.

Security Tools

Sustainable Travel

Reusable Bottle

Reusable water bottle cuts down on plastic waste.

Reusable Bag

Reusable shopping bag avoids single-use plastic.

Reusable Utensils

Reusable utensils for street food.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Reef-safe sunscreen protects marine ecosystems.

Destination-Specific Items

Coastal Activities

Cultural Visits

  • Versatile Sarong for modesty/sun protection.
  • Small Flashlight or Headlamp for power outages.
  • Basic gifts (pencils/notebooks) for village children (consider donations instead).

Packing Pro Tips

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.