North Sumatra, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for North Sumatra, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to North Sumatra, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to North Sumatra
- Important essentials for North Sumatra
- Activities for North Sumatra
- North Sumatra in January: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in February: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in March: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in April: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in May: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in June: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in July: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in August: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in September: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in October: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in November: weather and what to pack
- North Sumatra in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to North Sumatra, Indonesia
Based on the climate and weather in North Sumatra, Indonesia, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for North Sumatra, Indonesia
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in North Sumatra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for North Sumatra, Indonesia by month
January
January in North 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
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket will avoid travel headaches by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your belongings stay dry. Even the finest luggage can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
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 disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 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 correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
If you vacation in North Sumatra during February, you will probably 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 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your coat. We like this one.
The stormy 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 belongings don't get wet. The best luggage can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe 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 choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
March
If you go to North Sumatra in March, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat stormy. 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 cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
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 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 rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
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 have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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
Travel neck support 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
April
April in North Sumatra is consistently hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for storms.So your things remain dry. Even the most durable suitcases can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
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 prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
What we like 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 find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
If you are traveling to North Sumatra in May, you will notice that it is extremely hot. 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 help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your stuff stay dry. The most durable luggage can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Health
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.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
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 neck pillow
Our favorite 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. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
June
June for North Sumatra is constantly 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 first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for stormy weather.So your things stay dry. Even the most durable luggage can let rain in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
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. Take care to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
July
If you are traveling to North Sumatra in July, you will notice that it is really hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver 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 designed for storms.So your things don't get wet. Even the best suitcases can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take 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
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
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 pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
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 penalties with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
If you vacation in North Sumatra during August, you are likely to notice that it is extremely 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 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
thisRain poncho
A quality 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 are well-suited 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 water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
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 useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
September
If you visit North Sumatra during September, you are likely to see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s 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
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Skirts
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your belongings remain dry. Even the finest luggage can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry 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 recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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. Be careful to get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
October
October for North Sumatra can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice coat. 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 belongings don't get wet. The best luggage can let water in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
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 wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
November
If you go to North Sumatra in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Sunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Rain poncho
A weatherproof 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 must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your belongings stay dry. Even the finest luggage can let water in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in North 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 additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently 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
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 support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs 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 places.
December
December 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
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes harmful contaminants:
thisRain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your main jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your stuff stay dry. The best luggage can let rain in. We recommend:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly 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 North 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
What to do in North Sumatra, Indonesia
North Sumatra is one of the provinces in Indonesia that has a great potential for tourism. Situated on the western coast of the island of Sumatra, this province offers various tourist attractions which cater to the different tastes of tourists. From natural attractions, historic sites, to cultural destinations, there are plenty of must-visit places here. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in North Sumatra:
1. Lake Toba
Lake Toba is one of the largest volcanic lakes in the world, and it is one of the pride of North Sumatra. Located in the middle of the province, it is surrounded by highlands, and its turquoise water is perfect for swimming, boating, and other water sports. Visitors can also visit nearby traditional villages such as Ambarita and Tomok, which still preserve the ancient Batak culture.
2. Nias Island
Nias is an island located off the western coast of North Sumatra. It is famous for its unique stone jumping tradition, where young men jump over tall stone towers to prove their manhood. Visitors can learn about the island's fascinating culture by exploring its traditional houses, megalithic sites, and museums.
3. Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang is a small village located on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park. It is famous for its orangutan sanctuary, where visitors can see these endangered primates up close in their natural habitat. Visitors can also hike through the jungle to explore the park's lush greenery, waterfalls, and other wildlife such as gibbons, monkeys, and exotic bird species.
4. Berastagi
Berastagi is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Located in the highlands of North Sumatra, this town offers fresh air, cooler temperatures, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can trek up Mount Sibayak, see the iconic Gundaling Hill sunrise or explore nearby natural attractions such as the Sipiso-piso waterfall.
5. Medan City
Medan is the capital city of North Sumatra and the gateway to other tourist destinations in the province. It has a rich history and culture, which can be seen in its Chinese temples, mosques, colonial buildings, and museums. Medan is also famous for its culinary diversity, and visitors can try various dishes such as nasi padang, soto medan, and durian fruit.
North Sumatra has plenty of other less touristy destinations too which encourage visitors to experience the local culture and engage in community tourism. With these various attractions, it's no surprise North Sumatra has emerged as one of the country's most visited tourist destinations. So, pack your bags and book your trip to North Sumatra today to explore these unique and fascinating places!
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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