What Should You Pack for Indonesia?
Indonesia is warm and humid most of the year, so lightweight and breathable clothing is a must! Pack cotton or linen clothes to stay comfortable, and bring a light rain jacket if you’re visiting during the rainy season. Don’t forget a swimsuit for beach days, and bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring temples and nature trails.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Bali’s beaches, hiking volcanoes like Mount Bromo, visiting temples, and snorkeling or diving in the Gili Islands.
What to Wear in Indonesia
Indonesia is a modest country, especially in more traditional areas, so it’s a good idea to dress respectfully. In cities like Jakarta and Bali, you can wear casual, modern clothes, but if you’re visiting temples, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees. A sarong comes in handy for temple visits. On the beach, swimwear is fine, but away from the coast, more conservative clothing is appreciated.
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Spring
75 – 88°F
(24 – 31°C
)
Summer
77 – 90°F
(25 – 32°C
)
Fall
76 – 89°F
(24 – 31°C
)
Winter
75 – 87°F
(24 – 30°C
)
Spring: Warm, humid, rainy.
Summer: Hot and humid with sunny days and short rains.
Fall: Humid with some showers and warm temperatures.
Winter: Warm and rainy.
Spring
6.8 inches of rain
Summer
4.5 inches of rain
Fall
5.9 inches of rain
Winter
7.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying cool while exploring temples or markets—I loved having these in Bali!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Useful for sun protection during hikes or exploring tropical forests.
3. Tank Tops: Great for beach days and casual outings in coastal towns like Seminyak.
4. Casual Jacket: Handy for cooler mornings if you’re hiking in the mountains, like Mount Bromo.
5. Sweater: Bring a light sweater for early morning hikes or cooler evenings.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Lightweight pants are great for temple visits and nature trails—I really liked wearing them in Ubud.
2. Leggings: Comfortable for long flights or yoga sessions in Bali.
3. Shorts: Ideal for beach days and exploring the islands—pick a style that’s easy to pack and wear!
4. Dresses: A sundress is perfect for dinner by the beach or exploring local markets.
5. Skirt: Great for casual outings, especially when paired with a light top.
6. Jumpsuit: A stylish option for evenings out or visiting cultural sites.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring temples and nature trails—these were essential for my day at Borobudur!
2. Flats: Easy to slip on for casual outings, especially when visiting local markets or restaurants.
3. Swimsuit: Essential for beach days in Bali or island hopping to the Gili Islands.
4. Flip Flops: Perfect for the beach and walking around resorts.
5. Sarong: A versatile item for both beachwear and temple visits.
6. Beach Coverup: Handy for lounging at the beach or poolside.
7. Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the tropical sun while sightseeing.
8. Hat: A wide-brim hat is great for sun protection while exploring outdoor markets or temples.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for keeping essentials close on flights between islands.
2. Daypack: Useful for day trips to temples, volcanoes, or the beach.
3. Purse: A small crossbody purse for keeping personal items safe while shopping or dining out.
4. Beach Bag: Great for carrying your towel, sunscreen, and other beach essentials.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light clothing: Pack breathable fabrics to stay cool.
- Rain protection: It can rain unexpectedly, so bring a small umbrella or rain jacket.
- Sarong: Essential for visiting temples and a versatile beach coverup!
Indonesia Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT INDONESIA?
The best time to visit Indonesia is from May to September during the dry season. The weather is warm and perfect for beach activities and hiking!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN INDONESIA?
Bali Arts Festival (June-July): A vibrant cultural celebration showcasing traditional Balinese music, dance, and art, perfect for families.
Nyepi (March): Bali’s Day of Silence, observed with 24 hours of complete quiet, ideal for those seeking a unique cultural experience.
Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival (March): A large-scale music event attracting jazz lovers and international visitors alike.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN INDONESIA?
Indonesia offers a diverse range of destinations, from the beaches of Bali to the cultural hubs in Yogyakarta. One of my favorite spots is Ubud, where you can immerse yourself in Balinese culture, visit rice terraces, and explore temples. For a more adventurous trip, head to the Gili Islands for snorkeling and diving.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT INDONESIA?
Plan for at least 10-14 days to fully explore multiple islands and experience the diverse regions of Indonesia. A week is enough for Bali alone.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Uluwatu Temple and watch the Kecak dance performance at sunset. Spend day two lounging at Seminyak Beach and exploring local cafes.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud. Day four, explore the Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Tegenungan Waterfall. On day five, go on a snorkeling adventure in Nusa Penida.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six hiking Mount Batur for sunrise views. Day seven, explore Tanah Lot Temple and finish with a sunset dinner.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, take a ferry to the Gili Islands for snorkeling. Spend day nine diving near Lombok. Day ten, relax on the beaches of Nusa Dua.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore the temples in Yogyakarta. Day twelve, visit Borobudur Temple. Days thirteen and fourteen, explore the vibrant city of Jakarta.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN INDONESIA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR INDONESIA?
Heavy coat: Indonesia is warm year-round, so no need for heavy outerwear.
High heels: Not practical for beach destinations or island hopping.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO INDONESIA ?
Airfare: $600 – $1,200 depending on where you’re flying from and the season. Prices tend to be higher in the peak summer months.
Accommodation: $40 – $150 per night, depending on if you stay in budget hotels or resorts. Prices are higher in Bali’s tourist hubs.
Transportation: $50 – $150 for taxis, ferries, or motorbike rentals.
Meals: $15 – $50 per day depending on local or international cuisine choices.
Activities: $20 – $100 per day, especially if you’re booking guided tours or water activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN INDONESIA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not expected but appreciated. At restaurants, you can leave around 10% if service is good, and a small tip for hotel staff is welcome.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT INDONESIA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Bring cash: Many small businesses don’t accept cards.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples: Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Drink bottled water: Avoid tap water in most areas.