Sumatra, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Sumatra, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Sumatra, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Sumatra
- Important essentials for Sumatra
- Activities for Sumatra
- Sumatra in January: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in February: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in March: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in April: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in May: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in June: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in July: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in August: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in September: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in October: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in November: weather and what to pack
- Sumatra in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Sumatra, Indonesia
Based on the climate and weather in Sumatra, Indonesia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Sumatra, Indonesia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sumatra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Sumatra, Indonesia by month
January
If you vacation in Sumatra during January, you are likely to 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 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Sumatra. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
February
February in Sumatra is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Skirts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for stormy weather.So your belongings remain dry. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
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
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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 Sumatra. 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. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
March in Sumatra can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Bug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
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 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 designed for stormy weather.So your belongings remain dry. Even the best luggage can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take 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 product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Sumatra. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge 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 being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
April in Sumatra can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. 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:
thisBug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
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 coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your belongings stay dry. The most durable suitcases can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
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 things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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 bit of 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
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 neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
May
If you vacation in Sumatra during May, you will probably find 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 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Waterproof sandals
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 saves you time and money by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your stuff stay dry. Even the best suitcases can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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 Sumatra. 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
June
If you go to Sumatra in June, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket will avoid travel headaches by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for storms.So your things don't get wet. Even the most durable luggage can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some 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.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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.
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 adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
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
July
If you visit Sumatra during July, you are likely to find that it is really 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 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisTravel 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 coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your coat. We like this one.
The 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 stuff remain dry. The most durable suitcases can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a storm.
Health
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 wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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 repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
August
August in Sumatra is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your stuff stay dry. Even the best suitcases can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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 adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
September
Traveling to Sumatra in September, 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
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
thisSkirts
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 help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for storms.So your things don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
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 neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
October
October here 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
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
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 coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for bad weather.So your stuff stay dry. The best suitcases can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, 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 pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
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. Make sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
November in Sumatra can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A durable rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your things remain dry. Even the finest suitcases can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sumatra. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate 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
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
December in Sumatra can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.So your stuff remain dry. The best suitcases can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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 Sumatra. 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 frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
What to do in Sumatra, Indonesia
Sumatra is one of the largest islands in Indonesia, located in the western region of the country. This land of tropical forests, rugged landscapes, and magnificent wildlife has plenty of tourist attractions to offer. I will be discussing the top tourist attractions in Sumatra that attract a lot of tourists around the year.
1. Lake Toba: Lake Toba is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Sumatra, located in the northern part of the island. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking scenery while cruising on this lake. It is an active volcanic lake and contains a small island, Samosir, which offers a glimpse into the Bataks traditional way of life.
2. Bukit Lawang: The Bukit Lawang Orangutan Sanctuary is situated in the Gunung Leuser National Park, which is a UNESCO-listed site that offers forest trekking, orangutan sightings, and river rafting. It is a major attraction for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
3. Sipiso-Piso Waterfall: Sipiso-Piso Waterfall is a must-visit tourist attraction located in the northern part of Sumatra. The waterfall is around 120 meters tall and is surrounded by lush greenery. It offers a scenic view of the Lake Toba from the top.
4. Berastagi: Berastagi is a town located in the Karo highlands region of Sumatra. It is famous for its fruit and vegetable markets and nearby volcanic peaks. Tourists visit Berastagi to enjoy the scenic views of Mount Sibayak and the active Mount Sinabung.
5. Way Kambas National Park: Way Kambas National Park offers an excellent opportunity to observe various species of wildlife in their natural habitat, including Sumatran rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, and orangutans. Tourists can enjoy jungle safaris and bird-watching tours offered by the park.
Sumatra offers various tourist attractions that offer glimpses into the island's unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors to this Indonesian island will love its diverse range of offerings and leave with treasured memories. Whether it's wildlife spotting, active volcanoes, or breathtaking waterfalls, Sumatra has something for everyone.
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.
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