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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

General Clothing

Nauru is consistently hot and humid year-round. Prioritize lightweight, loose-fitting fabrics like cotton or linen. Layering is for sun or air-conditioned indoors, not warmth.

Recommendations

Cultural & Activity Attire

Nauru is a conservative Pacific island nation. While no strict dress codes exist for tourists, modest attire is appreciated, especially when visiting local communities, churches, or government buildings.

Advice

  • Avoid overly revealing clothing outside of resort areas or beaches.
  • A sarong or light wrap is useful for women to cover shoulders or knees when needed.
  • For swimming/snorkeling, a Rash guard provides added sun protection.

Footwear Essentials

Everyday Wear

Comfortable sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes are ideal for daily use and casual strolls.

Casual & Comfortable

Exploring & Hiking

Closed-toe walking shoes or light Sneakers are suitable for the island's interior and uneven terrain.

Sturdy & Protective

Water Activities

Water shoes or reef walkers are highly recommended to protect your feet against sharp coral or rocks.

Reef-Safe Protection

Essential Documents

Useful Travel Papers

Your documents are your lifeline while traveling. Keep them organized and secure. Make several physical and digital copies.

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond stay).
  • Nauru visa approval letter or sticker.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting a car.
  • Travel insurance policy information and emergency contacts.
  • Yellow Fever certificate (if required) and other vaccination records.
  • Documentation for any prescription medications.
  • Printed and digital copies of flight, hotel, and any tour reservations.
  • List of emergency contacts (family, friends, embassy/consulate, local numbers).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are compatible with local power standards and plan for communication. Nauru operates on 240V, 50Hz, using Type I plugs.

Power Details

  • Bring a Universal travel adapter that includes Type I sockets (Australian/New Zealand style).
  • Most modern smartphones are compatible with Nauru's GSM network frequencies.
  • Local SIM cards are available from Digicel Nauru at the airport or main office.

Cameras & Chargers

Capture moments and keep your devices charged, as purchasing items locally may be difficult or impossible.

Equipment Advice

Essential Apps & Data Backup

Navigation

Download Google Maps or Maps.me with the Nauru map offline. This helps with navigation without an internet connection.

Communication

Use Google Translate and download the offline Nauruan/English dictionary. WhatsApp is useful for international communication.

Data Backup

Use cloud storage services (like Google Drive, Dropbox) for backing up photos and copies of important documents. This protects your data in case of loss or damage to your devices.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Your health kit is a top priority for Nauru. Local pharmacies have limited stock, so bring sufficient supplies.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

Essential for Nauru's tropical climate.

Protection Must-Haves

Special Considerations

Motion Sickness & Hydration

Personal Hygiene

  • Bring sufficient quantities of all your personal toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste).
  • Include feminine hygiene products and contact lens solution.
  • Pack Hand sanitizer for convenience.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling/Swimming

Rentals are limited. Bring your own gear for guaranteed quality and hygiene.

Exploring/Walking

Comfortable gear makes island exploration enjoyable, especially on uneven terrains.

Fishing

If you plan to fish with locals, they will likely provide gear. Enthusiasts might bring their own basic tackle.

  • Basic tackle (lures, line) for enthusiasts.
  • Sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Camera for capturing your catch.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Pros of Bringing Your Own

  • Guaranteed quality and fit for personal gear.
  • Availability is not an issue upon arrival.
  • Better hygiene for items like snorkeling masks.
  • Cost-effective for multiple uses versus potentially high rental fees.

Cons of Renting Nauru Specific

  • Rental options are extremely limited or non-existent outside main hotels.
  • Quality of available rental gear is often basic.
  • Uncertainty of finding specific items you might need.
  • Higher cost for one-time use if found.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items add to your personal comfort during travel and security of your belongings.

Travel Essentials

Reusable & Eco-Friendly

Travel responsibly and reduce waste by bringing reusable items.

Sustainable Choices

Nauru Specific Essentials

Cash

Carry sufficient Australian Dollars in small denominations due to limited card/ATM access.

Snacks

Bring some non-perishable snacks from home due to limited food variety and high prices.

Toiletries

All personal hygiene items. Specific brands or even basic availability might be an issue.

Electronics

Any specific electronics or accessories you anticipate needing.

Local Purchase Difficulties

Expensive Items

  • Nearly everything is imported and thus expensive.
  • Specialty foods and specific medications.
  • Specific brands of toiletries.

Limited Availability

  • Electronics and accessories may be hard to find.
  • No wide variety of choices in local stores.
  • Plan to bring everything you anticipate needing for your trip.

Packing Checklist

Make a detailed packing list. This helps you organize and remember everything you need.

Check off items as you pack. This ensures you do not forget anything important for your Nauru trip.