Derawan, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Derawan, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Derawan, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Derawan
- Important essentials for Derawan
- Activities for Derawan
- Derawan in January: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in February: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in March: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in April: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in May: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in June: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in July: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in August: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in September: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in October: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in November: weather and what to pack
- Derawan in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Derawan, Indonesia
Based on the climate and weather in Derawan, Indonesia, the best time to go is February. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Derawan, Indonesia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Derawan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Derawan, Indonesia by month
January
If you vacation in Derawan during January, you may see that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
February
If you visit Derawan during February, you will probably notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March for Derawan can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
April
Traveling to Derawan in April, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
May
If you go to Derawan in May, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for bad weather.So your things stay dry. The best luggage can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
June
June in Derawan is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
If you visit Derawan during July, you may see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
August
Traveling to Derawan in August, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your things stay dry. The most durable suitcases can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
September in this region is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Skirts
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your stuff stay dry. The finest luggage can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
October
October in Derawan is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a storm.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
November
Traveling to Derawan in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your things remain dry. Even the most durable suitcases can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
December
December can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Derawan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
What to do in Derawan, Indonesia
Derawan, Indonesia is a hidden gem located off the coast of East Kalimantan in Borneo. Famous for its crystal clear waters, rich marine life, and untouched beaches, it is a must-visit destination for travelers in Southeast Asia. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful island paradise, here are some of the top tourist attractions you should definitely consider visiting.
1. Derawan Island
The name of the island itself is one of the top tourist attractions in Derawan, Indonesia. Derawan Island is the largest island in the region, and it's where you’ll find most of the island's accommodation, restaurants, and shops. You can enjoy swimming or sunbathing at the island’s pristine beaches, or explore the village's unique culture and way of life. But the most popular thing to do on Derawan Island is certainly diving and snorkeling, which are amazing experiences that offer a glimpse into the island's incredible underwater world.
2. Maratua Island
Maratua Island is another island off the coast of Derawan that is worth exploring. It's home to several species of turtles, and you can swim alongside them while snorkeling or diving. The island's surroundings are also unique, with ancient mangrove forests, and freshwater lakes connected to the sea. Visit Maratua Island to experience a sense of tranquility and beauty like no other.
3. Kakaban Island
Kakaban Island is a unique destination within the Derawan Archipelago. It features a secluded blue lagoon, which is one of the most unique natural phenomena in Southeast Asia. This lagoon is home to hundreds of jellyfish species, including stingless jellyfish that are not found anywhere else in the world. Tourists can take a dip in the lagoon and go snorkeling among these fascinating creatures, offering an experience that is hard to forget.
4. Sangalaki Island
Sangalaki Island is another must-see destination in Derawan, Indonesia. This small island is famous for its nesting turtles, including loggerheads and green turtles. The island also offers a chance to see manta rays and sharks in their natural habitats. The island is one of the most popular locations for divers and visitors can have the unforgettable experience of swimming alongside the sea creatures.
5. Whale Shark Watching
Lastly, no trip to Derawan would be complete without a chance to spot some of the island’s most incredible wildlife. This includes the largest fish on earth - the whale shark. Derawan is one of the few places in the world where you can see these magnificent creatures up close and personal. Tourists who visit can take an organized tour to snorkel with the whale sharks, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In conclusion, Derawan Island is an absolute paradise, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are interested in swimming with jellyfish, observing sea turtles’ nesting habits or taking the opportunity to stare in awe at the majesty of the largest fish in the world - this Indonesian paradise is worth it all. So indulge in the trip of a lifetime, and experience one of the most beautiful, serene, and unique parts of the island nation of Indonesia.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Río Branco, Uruguay, Öland, Sweden, Comanche National Grasslands, Colorado, United States of America, Goldfields, Victoria, Australia, Larache, Morocco, Syrian Coast and Mountains, Syria, Maputo, Mozambique, Damme, Belgium, Northern Namibia, Namibia, Rancho Cordova, California, United States of America, and Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada.