Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka? If you're planning to go to Sri Lanka, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka

Based on the climate and weather in Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka by month

January

January in this region is hot. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you are traveling to Sri Lanka in February, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

  • 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 Sri Lanka. 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 some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs 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 places.

March

March is hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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 you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

April

April can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June here is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale 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 be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option 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

July

If you go to Sri Lanka in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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 repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

August

Traveling to Sri Lanka in August, you will notice that it is hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

If you are traveling to Sri Lanka in September, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold 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 work in most areas.

October

If you go to Sri Lanka in October, you will notice that it is hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • 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 Sri Lanka. 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 staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

November

Traveling to Sri Lanka in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

December

If you go to Sri Lanka in December, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Sri Lanka. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

What to do in Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island nation located in South Asia that boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. It has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years, drawing visitors from all across the world. Here are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka that visitors should be sure to check out.

1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress - This ancient fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, and offers a glimpse into the country’s history and culture. The fortress was built in the 5th century AD by King Kasyapa, and includes a series of elaborate gardens, caves, and frescoes. At the top of the fortress, visitors are treated to sweeping views over the surrounding countryside.

2. Temple of the Tooth - Located in the city of Kandy, the Temple of the Tooth is one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrines. The temple houses a sacred relic, which is believed to be the tooth of the Buddha himself. Visitors can tour the temple and participate in daily rituals and ceremonies.

3. Yala National Park - Sri Lanka is known for its diverse wildlife, and Yala National Park is one of the best places to see it. The park is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, elephants, and water buffalo. Visitors can take a safari through the park for an up-close view of the wildlife.

4. Adams Peak - This mountain in central Sri Lanka is a popular pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. Visitors climb the mountain to reach the summit, which is home to a sacred shrine and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Galle Fort - This historic fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort’s picturesque streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, and offer a charming glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past.

6. Anuradhapura - This ancient city was once the capital of Sri Lanka and is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the city’s many temples, ruins, and monuments, which offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.

7. Ella - This small town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can hike to viewpoints that offer views of the surrounding tea fields and waterfalls, or take a scenic train ride through the mountains.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, there’s something in this beautiful country for everyone to enjoy.

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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