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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Sulawesi, Indonesia

Season-Specific and General Wear

Manado's consistent tropical warmth and humidity call for specific clothing choices. The aim is to maintain comfort and coolness.

Clothing Recommendations

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Cotton, linen, rayon, or moisture-wicking synthetics.
  • Quick-drying items: Useful for water activities or the wet season.
  • Daytime wear: T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, light skirts, sundresses.

Cultural and Activity Attire

Modesty is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering places of worship.

Specific Attire Guidance

Footwear Recommendations

Casual Comfort

Sandals or flip-flops for everyday wear and beach areas.

Ideal for casual walks.

City Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration; breathable materials are key.

For urban adventures.

Water Activities & Trekking

Water shoes or Reef shoes for rocky beaches. Light hiking shoes for volcanoes or Tangkoko Nature Reserve.

For varied terrains.

Essential Documents

Documents to Carry

Careful organization of your travel documents lessens unnecessary stress. Keep both physical and digital copies of all important papers.

  • Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond intended departure.
  • Visa documentation: Printed e-VOA or approval letters.
  • Travel insurance policy: Printed and digital copies with emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If driving a car or scooter, with national license.
  • Vaccination records: Useful for personal reference.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flights, accommodations, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Family, embassy, local numbers.
  • Photocopies/digital scans: Store securely in cloud or email.

Technology & Electronics

Power and Connectivity

Modern travel often means relying on electronics for navigation, communication, and capturing memories. Plan your tech needs for Manado's specific requirements.

Essentials

Photography and Apps

Camera and App Suggestions

Data Backup and Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage (e.g., Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox) for photos and videos.

External Hard Drive

Consider a Small external hard drive for additional backups.

Multi-port Charger

A multi-port USB charger allows charging several devices with one adapter.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Your health and well-being are a top priority. A well-stocked personal health kit handles common travel ailments and unexpected situations.

Kit Contents

Other Health Essentials

Beyond a basic first aid kit, other items add to your well-being.

Important Health Items

Water and Hygiene

Water Purification

Personal Hygiene

Activity-Specific Equipment

Diving/Snorkeling Gear

Gear can be rented, but many prefer their own for comfort.

Photography Equipment

Capture your memories with suitable gear.

Hiking Essentials

For volcanic or rainforest trails, proper gear is necessary.

Rental vs. Bring

Consider Bringing

  • For certified divers with specific preferences (BCD, regulator, wetsuit), bringing your own gear ensures maximum comfort.
  • Your own mask and snorkel often fit better and give a superior experience.
  • A Dry bag for electronics on boat trips is highly recommended.
  • Specialty brand items you rely on.

Consider Renting

  • Reputable dive centers in Bunaken maintain a good stock of rental gear, often of decent quality.
  • Renting gear is a convenient option if you prefer to travel light.
  • For snorkeling, basic gear is widely available for rent.
  • Fins can be bulky to pack but are readily available for rent.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort and Security

Beyond the basics, a few extra items enhance your travel experience and security.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Sustainable & Specific Items

A thoughtful traveler considers regional specificities and sustainability.

Sustainable & Essential Gear

  • Reusable utensils to reduce plastic waste.
  • During the wet season, an Umbrella or light rain jacket.
  • Items difficult or expensive to purchase locally (specific medications, contact lens solution, favorite snacks).
  • A small, lightweight Daypack for daily excursions.

Final Packing Tip

Contact Dive Center

If unsure about renting or bringing dive gear, contact your chosen dive center beforehand.

Gear Information

They provide details on quality and types of rental gear available.

Informed Decision

This allows you to make an informed decision on what to pack.

Travel Light

Travel light if renting makes sense for your trip.

Affiliate Resources for Packing

General Shopping

  • Amazon - Main consumer retail platform for various items.
  • Nordace - Modern travel bag and accessory store.
  • B&H Photo - Camera and electronics retailer.

Connectivity

Packing Smart

Pack clothes you do not mind getting a bit dirty or wet. The humidity and potential for sudden rain mean quick-drying items are good.

Consider laundry services at your accommodation for longer trips.