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Kiribati What to Pack

Kiribati What to Pack

Year-Round Apparel

Pack T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, skirts, and lightweight dresses. Opt for cotton, linen, or quick-drying synthetic materials. These fabrics breathe well and feel less heavy when humid. Evenings stay warm, so similar lightweight clothing works.

Comfort & Protection:

  • A very Light jacket or a sarong offers comfort if there is a breeze.
  • Layering can provide Sun protection (light long sleeves/pants).
  • Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and pools; not in villages.

Cultural Modesty

Kiribati has a conservative culture. This is especially true when visiting villages, government buildings, or churches.

Respectful Dressing:

  • Modesty for Women: Avoid revealing clothing. Shoulders and knees must be covered. A sarong (lava-lava) aids in this.
  • Modesty for Men: Wear shirts in public areas. Do not go shirtless except at appropriate beach areas.
  • Religious Site Visits: Both men and women should have shoulders and knees covered.

Footwear Essentials

Casual Comfort

Sandals or flip-flops are primary for casual wear, hotel use, and easy walking.

Daily use

Reef Protection

Water shoes or sturdy reef sandals protect feet from coral, rocks, and stonefish.

Beach & Water

Walking & Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers work for villages and longer walks.

Town & Village

Essential Documents

Document Checklist

Keeping your documents organized and secure is a top priority for any international trip, especially to a remote destination.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry original passport, copies (digital & physical) stored separately.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: This is a must-have item. Note down policy number and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (if proper): Bring with your national driving license.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Carry Yellow Fever certificate if needed, personal vaccination records.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Keep all flight bookings, accommodation, and tour confirmations.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Names and phone numbers of contacts at home, local emergency numbers.
  • Doctor's Note for Medications: Carry a doctor's note explaining your need for prescription medications.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if proper): Carrying relevant identification cards does not hurt.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Kiribati uses Type I electrical outlets, the same as Australia and New Zealand, with 240V voltage. Bring a Universal travel adapter if your devices use different plug types.

Mobile & Camera Ready:

  • Most modern electronics are dual voltage (100-240V).
  • Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with GSM networks. Local SIM cards from ATH Kiribati are available.
  • Protect camera gear from humidity and salt spray. A Waterproof camera or Underwater housing helps for water activities.

Digital Preparedness

Power outages can occur. A reliable Power bank keeps your devices charged when power outlets are unavailable.

Smart Apps & Backups:

  • Offline Maps: Download maps of South Tarawa and Kiritimati (e.g., Google Maps, Maps.me).
  • Translation App: Install a translation app like Google Translate for offline use.
  • Backup Solutions: Use cloud storage for photos, or an External hard drive or USB stick.

Cyber Security

VPN Usage

Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Device Protection

Keep devices updated with antivirus software. Use strong, unique passwords.

Digital Copies

Store digital copies of documents in secure, accessible cloud storage or encrypted drives.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Preparedness

A well-stocked First aid kit and personal health supplies are primary due to basic healthcare facilities.

Kit Contents:

  • Standard wound care: bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape.
  • Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), antihistamines, anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium), oral rehydration salts.
  • Hydrocortisone cream, antibiotic ointment, tweezers, sterile needles/syringes.

Medication & Prevention

Bring a sufficient supply of all prescription medications for your entire trip, plus a few extra days. Carry medications in their original containers with clear labeling.

Health Necessities:

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern in Kiribati due to its low elevation.
  • This means one less health worry for your packing list.
  • Focus on other tropical climate health preparations.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication is useful for boat travel.
  • It also helps for potentially bumpy domestic flights.
  • Bring a preferred remedy if you are prone to seasickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling / Diving

Bring your own Mask, snorkel, and fins for comfort. Reef shoes are necessary.

  • A rash guard offers sun protection.
  • Dive gear rental is available, but quality may vary.
  • Serious divers: consider bringing your regulator or Dive computer.
  • A thin Wetsuit might be useful for longer periods in the water.

Fishing Gear

If you plan a fishing trip to Kiritimati, check with your fishing lodge regarding included gear.

  • Serious anglers often bring their own preferred rod, reel, lures, or flies.
  • This ensures optimal performance for your fishing experience.
  • Renting gear is possible via lodges.
  • Experienced anglers prefer their own equipment.

Camping & Rentals

Formal campgrounds do not exist. Camping might occur on uninhabited islets with prior permission.

  • You must bring your own Tent, Sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.
  • This option is uncommon and calls for self-sufficiency.
  • Bikes are available for rent in Tarawa and Kiritimati.
  • No need to bring your own bicycle.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

When to Bring Your Own:

  • Snorkeling: Your own Mask and snorkel for fit and hygiene.
  • Diving: For serious divers, bringing your own regulator or dive computer.
  • Fishing: Many experienced anglers prefer their own equipment.
  • Specific Needs: Any items with specific requirements for your activities.

When to Rent Locally:

  • Snorkeling: Rent fins if luggage space is an issue.
  • Dive Gear: Rent if you are not a serious diver.
  • Bikes: Readily available for rent in Tarawa and Kiritimati.
  • Check with local operators for rental availability and quality.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not overlook small items that significantly enhance comfort and security during your trip.

Traveler's Essentials:

Reusable & Climate-Friendly

Embrace sustainable travel practices with reusable items to minimize your environmental footprint.

Sustainable Travel:

Region-Specific Essentials

Patience

Things often operate on "island time."

Flexibility

Schedules are fluid; be ready for changes.

Sarong

A lightweight Sarong (lava-lava) for modesty or sun.

Dry Bag

A Waterproof dry bag protects electronics.

Items Difficult to Find Locally

Health & Personal Care:

  • High-quality sunscreen and insect repellent are often more expensive or unavailable.
  • Bring specific medications or first-aid supplies you regularly use.
  • Specific toiletries or personal care items might not be available.

Specialized Gear & Comforts:

  • Specialized activity gear, like fishing lures or dive computer batteries, should come from home.
  • Pack snacks or comfort foods from home, as local options are limited.
  • Specialized camera equipment or unusual electronic accessories.

Packing Pro Tip

A positive attitude towards basic infrastructure and potential inconveniences helps you embrace the experience.

Pack smart, pack light, and remain ready for adventure!