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Packing for Padang

Packing for Padang

Sumatra, Indonesia

General Attire

Quick-drying clothing proves useful due to frequent rainfall, allowing you to wash items and have them ready faster. A light rain jacket or compact umbrella is advisable any time of year.

Fabric and Layers

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, synthetics).
  • Light rain jacket or compact umbrella.
  • Light sweater for air-conditioned interiors or highlands.

Cultural Modesty

Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, and modesty earns appreciation, especially outside major tourist enclaves or when visiting religious sites like mosques.

Modesty Guidelines

  • Women: cover shoulders and knees, loose-fitting pants, skirts, dresses.
  • Lightweight scarf for hair cover in mosques.
  • Men: long shorts or light trousers are acceptable.

Footwear Essentials

City Walking

Comfortable sandals or flip-flops.

Easy on/off

Exploration

Closed-toe shoes like sneakers or light hiking shoes for uneven terrain.

Good grip

Rainy Days

Waterproof sandals or shoes for heavy rain.

Stay dry

Activity Specifics

Activity Attire

Specific activities require particular attire.

  • Hiking: sturdy walking shoes, light backpack, reusable water bottle.
  • Hiking: light, breathable long pants to protect from insects.
  • Swimming: standard swimwear at beaches/hotel pools. Modest swimwear in local public areas.
  • Religious Site Visits: modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Remove shoes.
  • Formal Events: not typically needed for general tourism.
  • Rain gear: a light rain jacket or compact umbrella is always advisable.

Documents

Travel Documentation

Passport and visa documentation are first on the list.

Passport & Visa

  • Original passport (6+ months validity, blank pages).
  • Printed e-VOA or visa approval.
  • Printed return or onward flight ticket.

Supporting Documents

Other documents ease your trip and stay safe.

Additional Papers

  • Travel insurance policy information.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if applicable.
  • Vaccination records and doctor's notes for meds.

Backup & Contacts

Reservations

Printed and digital copies of flight, accommodation, and any tour bookings.

Emergency List

A list of local emergency numbers, your embassy or consulate, and family or friends back home.

IDs for Discounts

Student/senior/press IDs might offer discounts at some attractions, less common in Padang.

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Connectivity

Indonesia uses Type C and Type F power sockets. The voltage is 230V at 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter with surge protection is recommended.

Charging Essentials

Communication & Photos

Most modern unlocked smartphones are compatible with Indonesia's GSM network. Local SIM cards are available. Telkomsel generally has the best coverage.

Devices & Gear

Essential Apps

Navigation

  • Google Maps.
  • Maps.me (for offline maps).
  • Grab and Gojek (transport, food delivery).

Communication & Backup

  • Google Translate (offline Bahasa Indonesia pack).
  • WhatsApp (widely used for local communication).
  • Cloud storage or an External hard drive for photos and documents.

Health & Well-being

First Aid Kit

Prepare a destination-specific First aid kit. Basic items include Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze, and medical tape.

Kit Contents

Personal Medications

Carry sufficient prescription medications for your trip duration. Keep them in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note.

Rx & OTC

  • Prescription medications in original packaging.
  • Doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Over-the-counter remedies (cold and flu remedies or antacids).

Climate Specifics

Tropical Climate

Water & Hygiene

  • A Portable water filter or purification tablets for refilling reusable bottles.
  • Pack travel-size toiletries for convenience.

Activity Gear

Hiking Gear

For exploring inland areas and mountains.

Water Activities

If going to Mentawai or island hopping.

General Travel Gear

Items not unique to Padang but generally useful for travel.

Rent vs Buy Decision

Rental Considerations

  • Motorcycle rentals common.
  • Car rentals with driver recommended.
  • Snorkeling gear rental available.
  • Surfboards typically rented in Mentawai.

Bring Your Own

  • High-quality snorkel mask (hygiene/fit).
  • Quick-dry towel.
  • Reliable daypack.
  • Specialty camera gear (B&H Photo has many options).

Extra Essentials

Comfort & Security

These items enhance your travel comfort and keep your belongings safe.

Travel Aids

Sustainable Travel

Minimize waste and save money with reusable items.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Region-Specific Items

Daypack

Small backpack for daily excursions.

Dry Bag

For boat trips to Mentawai, protecting electronics.

Small Bills

For local purchases and angkot rides.

Phrasebook

Basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases.

Local Availability

Hard to Find

  • Specific clothing sizes or styles.
  • Specialty electronics.
  • High-quality outdoor gear (Amazon is a good source).

Better to Bring

  • Comprehensive first aid kit items (Adventure Medical Kits).
  • Specific prescription medications.
  • Preferred sunscreen brands.

Packing Tip

Pack a few plastic bags to store wet clothing or separate dirty shoes.

This keeps luggage organized in the humid climate.