Port-Vila, Vanuatu: 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 Port-Vila, Vanuatu? If you're planning to go to Port-Vila, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Port-Vila, Vanuatu

Based on the climate and weather in Port-Vila, Vanuatu, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Port-Vila, Vanuatu

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Port-Vila, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Port-Vila, Vanuatu by month

January

January in Port-Vila is hot. 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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 Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

February in Port-Vila can be very hot. 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March in Port-Vila is hot. 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Port-Vila is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

May in Port-Vila is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice 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

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

If you go to Port-Vila in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July in Port-Vila is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

August in Port-Vila is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

Traveling to Port-Vila in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust 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

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

If you go to Port-Vila in October, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect 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 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

If you visit Port-Vila during November, you are likely to find that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

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 pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December in Port-Vila is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vanuatu has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Port-Vila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the National Museum of Vanuatu, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Evergreen Cascades Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Port-Vila, Vanuatu

Port-Vila is the bustling capital city of Vanuatu, an archipelago of 80 islands located in the South Pacific Ocean. The city is a popular tourist destination attracting visitors from all over the globe to experience its unique blend of culture, history, and natural wonders. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Port-Vila, Vanuatu.

1. Mele Cascades Waterfall

Tucked away in the lush rainforest outside Port-Vila is the stunning Mele Cascades Waterfall. The waterfall is a popular spot for tourists who visit Port-Vila, and visitors can swim in the natural pools at the bottom of the falls. A guided tour to the Mele Cascades Waterfall includes a walk through the dense tropical rainforest, where visitors can spot exotic plants, birds, and wildlife

2. Iririki Island

Iririki Island is a small island located in the harbor of Port-Vila that welcomes visitors with sandy beaches, turquoise waters, palm trees, and a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can take the ferry to the island and spend the day relaxing in the sun, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or indulging in the island's spa treatments and culinary delights.

3. Vanuatu Cultural Centre

The Vanuatu Cultural Center is home to the national museum of Vanuatu, showcasing the country's unique history and culture. Visitors can explore traditional buildings, artifacts, and art exhibits, learn about the local customs and traditions, and witness live performances of traditional music, dance, and ceremonies.

4. National Parliament House

The National Parliament House is an impressive building located in the heart of Port-Vila. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the country's political system, history, and art. The building has an iconic conical roof that represents the traditional nakamal meeting place for chiefs, and visitors can see an original nakamal on the grounds.

5. Port Vila Market

The Port Vila Market is a vibrant and colorful place to visit in the city, where vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, handicrafts, souvenirs, and other local goods. The market is a great place to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture, and bargain for unique items.

6. Hideaway Island Marine Resort

Hideaway Island is a nearby island that is home to the Hideaway Island Marine Reserve, where visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving to discover some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world. The island also has a marine research center and a resort that offers visitors comfortable accommodation, dining, and other activities.

In conclusion, Port-Vila, Vanuatu, is an amazing travel destination for anyone seeking adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise. The city is filled with fascinating attractions, natural wonders, and cultural experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. From waterfall tours to exploring traditional nakamals, there is something for everyone in Port-Vila.

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: Saito, Japan, Castletownberehaven, Ireland, Stillwater, Oklahoma, United States of America, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal, Bluefield, West Virginia, United States of America, Olympic National Park, Washington, United States of America, Isa Town, Bahrain, Waltham, Massachusetts, United States of America, Rapallo, Italy, Sigtuna, Sweden, and Coldwater, Michigan, United States of America.