The First Interactive Virtual Tourism Centre on the GTPNet
developed by UNTPDC in cooperation with PUSDATA and Bali Trade Point
A back-pack is far more convenient than a suitcase. Purchase a good quality lightweight pack with a comfortable harness, and learn how to pack it. A smaller day-pack will also be useful. Travel light. Adopt a less is best approach when packing, and only include items that you know you will need. If you think you might need an item, then chances are you won’t need it. Try to eliminate anything that falls into that category.
Think twice about heavy items. Grooming items, make-up etc. are usually heavy, and are unneccesary for a trekking holiday. Pack only a basic toilet bag, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, anti-perspirant, blade razor (far lighter than and electric shaver) etc. Hair dryers are not really needed on a hot tropical island, nor are clothes irons.
If electical items must be taken, be aware that the power supply is usually 220 volts, 50 hertz. Outlets are European style sockets, accepting plugs with two rounded pins. It is advisable to check that your appliances will operate at 220 volts before using them.
Carry items such as facial tissues (which can double as emergency toilet tissue), a small sewing kit with needles, thread and some spare buttons, and some strong string or twine for emergencies.
Take only the barest minimum of clothing. Take a look at our guide to what to wear on Bali.
For men, a couple of tee-shirts, a couple of pairs of shorts, a jumper (sweater), one pair of lightweight long trousers and a shirt with a collar (optional) plus underwear, socks and a pair of good walking shoes will do.
For women, a couple of tee-shirts, a couple of pairs of shorts, a jumper (sweater), one lightweight dress (optional) plus underwear, socks and a pair of good walking shoes will get you by.
A batik sarong is a universal item, and may be worn by either sex (required to be worn when visiting temples), although it must be tied differently for men and women. When you buy a sarong (the cheapest are around Rp.6,000) ask to be shown how to tie it. At a pinch, your sarong may be used as a sheet whilst sleeping, or as a towel whilst on the beach. Carry your sarong with you whilst touring, as one must be worn whilst visiting temples. The alternative is to hire one.
Additional clothing may be purchased anywhere in Bali if you run short or need a special item. For information about buying items on Bali, you can check our section about money.
Your own towel is useful when staying in budget accommodation, as you will not always be supplied with one where you stay. Try to find one that dries quickly and is lightweight. Lightweight travel towels may be bought from camping and travel centres.
A first aid kit is essential and even the most basic kit may prove invaluable of you or one of your party has a fall, gets cut or scratched or is involved in an accident. Take a look at our section on travel health for more information.
Sunscreen or sunblock should always be used, especially for those arriving from winter and whose skin has no natural protection from the burning sun. A hat is also useful for sun protection. Even of you do have a tan, be aware that your skin may still burn, and the affects may not be realised until perhaps many years later as skin cancer.
Always be aware of the risks of fire, especially if you intend to burn mosquito coils at night. Be very careful that they cannot set your room alight.