West Sumatra, 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 West Sumatra, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to West Sumatra, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to West Sumatra
- Important essentials for West Sumatra
- Activities for West Sumatra
- West Sumatra in January: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in February: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in March: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in April: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in May: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in June: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in July: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in August: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in September: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in October: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in November: weather and what to pack
- West Sumatra in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to West Sumatra, Indonesia
Based on the climate and weather in West Sumatra, Indonesia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for West Sumatra, Indonesia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in West Sumatra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for West Sumatra, Indonesia by month
January
January in West Sumatra can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
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 saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your belongings stay dry. The best luggage can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
February can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisTravel 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 coat saves you time and money by protecting your nice 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 bad weather.So your stuff don't get wet. Even the best suitcases can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be 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 good kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take 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 belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
March
If you go to West Sumatra in March, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include 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 help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice 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 designed for storms.So your belongings don't get wet. The best suitcases can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient 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 pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
April
If you are traveling to West Sumatra in April, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against 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 saves you time and money 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 storms.So your things don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 belongings.
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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May in West Sumatra is consistently 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
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
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 main coat. 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 built for bad weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the most durable suitcases can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
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 things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
If you go to West Sumatra in June, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans 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 main jacket. 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 built for stormy weather.So your things stay dry. The most durable suitcases can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
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 great one.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly 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 West 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
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices 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
July
If you are traveling to West Sumatra in July, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
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 can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. 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 belongings don't get wet. The best suitcases can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some 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 great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
August in this region is hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
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 saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
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 wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags 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 belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
September
If you are traveling to West Sumatra in September, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
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 coat will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your belongings stay dry. The best suitcases can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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 neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
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 adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
October
October in West Sumatra is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
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 can be a lifesaver 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 built for stormy weather.So your things don't get wet. Even the finest luggage can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices 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
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
Traveling to West Sumatra in November, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
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 will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for storms.So your things stay dry. The most durable luggage can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can 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
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy 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 should work in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
December
If you go to West Sumatra in December, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 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 choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Skirts
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 will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice jacket. 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 stay dry. Even the finest suitcases can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West 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
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in West Sumatra, Indonesia
West Sumatra in Indonesia is a province located on the island of Sumatra. It is renowned for its rich culture, traditional music, and stunning natural scenery. Here are some top tourist attractions in the area:
1. Lake Maninjau: Nestled amidst the lush green mountains, this scenic lake offers breathtaking views, and is popular for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. A trip around the lake is also a must-do.
2. Bukittinggi: This charming town is a popular tourist destination in West Sumatra, known for its stunning architecture, historical landmarks, local markets and traditional food.
3. Harau Valley: A breathtaking valley that is known for its towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and flowing waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking and exploring the nature here.
4. Pagaruyung Palace: Located in the hilly Batusangkar area, this stunning palace is a historical monument for the Minangkabau people. It is built in the traditional rumah gadang style and is a great place to learn about the local culture.
5. Kerinci Seblat National Park: The largest national park in Sumatra, it is home to dozens of endangered species of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
6. Sianok Canyon: Also known as the Grand Canyon of Indonesia, it is a stunning natural wonder consisting of steep-sided valleys and rivers, and is considered an ideal location for trekking, hiking, and photography.
7. Rafflesia Arnoldii: This rare flower, known as the “corpse flower” for its pungent smell, blooms in the Sumatran rainforest and is a must-see for nature lovers.
8. Anai Valley: This picturesque valley is located on the way to Bukittinggi and offers visitors stunning views of waterfalls and local villages.
9. Tabek Patah: Located on the slopes of Mount Merapi, a visit to this area offers an opportunity to learn about the traditional coffee plantation and enjoy fresh coffee.
10. Jam Gadang: Located in the heart of Bukittinggi, it is an iconic tower and a symbol of the city with a clock tower which chimes every hour.
Overall, West Sumatra offers visitors a unique experience that combines natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Whether it's exploring lush rainforests or learning about local traditions and customs, there is something for everyone in this stunning region.
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: Karkonosze National Park, Poland, Nakfa, Eritrea, Eiheiji, Japan, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany, Elhovo, Bulgaria, Afytos, Greece, Cai Rong, Vietnam, Phichit, Thailand, Eutaw, Alabama, United States of America, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, United States of America, and Tillamook State Forest, Oregon, United States of America.