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Archipelago Adventures: An In-depth Travel Guide to Indonesia

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Discover Indonesia

Indonesia is on a lot of people’s bucket lists purely to visit Bali. Of course, Bali is incredible. It wouldn’t be this popular if it wasn’t. 

But there are so many other extraordinary places in Indonesia that are still unexplored and untouched. It’s the world’s largest archipelago with more than 17,000 islands , of which 7,000 are uninhabited, so the opportunity for exploration is endless. 

Indonesia offers a tapestry of diverse cultures, traditions, landscapes, wildlife, and history. Each island possesses its own unique identity, shaped over time, promising you an entirely fresh experience at every destination.

We’ve created this ultimate guide to Indonesia to share with you everything that this unique country has to offer.

Is Indonesia worth visiting?

Indonesia’s diversity is astonishing, offering everything from pristine white sand beaches to rice fields as far as the eye can see, to 127 active volcanoes . It’s a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 17% of the world’s wildlife and boasting a staggering 300,000 species.

Prepare to encounter some of the planet’s most extraordinary creatures , including Komodo dragons, tigers, orangutans, rhinoceroses, dolphins, and manta rays.

And all of this sits alongside the rich history and culture of the country which can be seen in the countless temples, religious, and historical sites.

As if that wasn’t enough to already convince you to visit Indonesia, it’s the ideal place to learn to surf, live life as a digital nomad or eat your way through delicious cuisine. 

Is Indonesia safe?

Indonesia is one of the safest Southeast Asian countries to travel and the people of Indonesia are extremely friendly and will go out of their way to offer a helping hand. 

That being said, like with pretty much every country in the world, petty theft and pickpocketing do occur, so make sure to keep an eye on your belongings.

Best destinations in Indonesia

Top 3 places to visit in Indonesia

To provide some extra help with planning your trip, we’ve collated our top three favourite destinations in Indonesia:

Bali — the island paradise everyone wants to visit

Known as “ The Land of Gods ”, Bali is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The stunning beaches are the perfect place to take in colourful sunsets, watch local surfers and soak up the sun. The lush jungles of Ubud will leave you in awe and the chilled vibes of Canggu will make you feel at home . 

It’s a place where you can witness manta rays leaping from the water, climb a volcano for sunrise and then end your day eating amazing food in the local warung. And of course, as you’ve probably seen from Instagram, Bali is now home to extravagant villas and luxurious beach clubs.

But if that’s not your vibe, it’s still not hard to find your happy place on this magical island. 

Visit our page about travelling from Yogyakarta to Bali to find your best travel options.

Flores  — home to the last dragons

Ready for a more adventurous trip? Make your way to Flores and take a boat tour to Komodo National Park to enjoy the pristine beaches, superb hiking, and unforgettable diving and snorkelling. 

Within this park, you’ll find Komodo Island, also referred to as the “Home of the Last Dragons”. The island is home to over 4,000 Komodo Dragons , the largest lizards on the planet with some growing up to 3 metres long. 

To travel here, check out our page on how to travel from Bali to Komodo .

Yogyakarta  — bursting with rich culture, history and art

Yogyakarta can be found on Indonesia’s most populous island, Java. It’s one of Indonesia’s cultural hearts being home to the huge, magnificent temples of Borobudur and Prambanan Temple , built in the 8th and 9th centuries. Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and one of the most remarkable structures you’ll ever witness.

The city itself is filled with history, culture and religious sites unlike anywhere else. Yogyakarta boasts a vibrant vibe created by the friendly locals, unique art and a lively music scene.

Taking the day train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta will present some of the country’s most amazing rice terraces, small villages, and local life. Find out how to get from Jakarta to Yogyakarta .

Bonus: the Gili Islands

We know it says top 3, but we couldn’t go without mentioning the Gili Islands. These three little islands off the coast of Lombok, all offer gorgeous beaches and warm, blue waters. Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three islands, is the most visited with a busy nightlife , and countless restaurants and bars. 

Gili Air is a little smaller with a much more mellow vib e. Gili Meno, the smallest of the islands offers a strong local character. You won’t find as many tourists or amenities, but it’s the perfect place to escape it all. See our route from Bali to the Gili Islands for more info.

When is the best time to travel to Indonesia?

Indonesia has just two seasons, wet and dry. The tropical temperatures average 28°C during the day, throughout the year. The dry season is from May to October and the wet season begins in November/Decembe r and ends in March/April .

While you can visit this country year-round, between the months of May and October , you will find the best weather. If you choose to visit Indonesia during January and February, be prepared for the wet season and expect cloudy days and several hours a day of rain. If you don’t mind putting your plans on hold for a couple of hours each day, it’s still a decent time to visit.

How to get around in Indonesia

Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia between the Indian and Pacific Oceans and spans 1,904,569 square kilometres. While some of the larger islands are easily travelled by bus, car or train, the majority of travel throughout Indonesia is by boat or ferry.

Here are the best ways to get around Indonesia:

Indonesia is a nation made up of islands, so boats are an essential way to hop between the islands. There are two main types of boats that you’ll be using for inter-island travel; fast boats and ferries. 

Fast boats are used mainly by tourists. As the name suggests, they are faster than ferries and are usually similar to speedboats. They also tend to be more expensive than the ferry. Some popular journeys that you’ll find fast boats running between are Bali to the Gili islands and Bali to Lombok . 

Ferries are much larger boats that tend to go a lot slower and are most commonly used if someone is travelling with a vehicle. Most of the popular routes also have a ferry option, which is also normally cheaper than taking a fast boat. The ferries vary in comfort level, ranging from basic to more luxurious options.

Many of the fast boats can be booked online in advance via Bookaway . 

Train travel is only available in Java and Sumatra . On the island of Java, train travel is one of the most popular forms of transport as it offers excellent scenery, comfort, and reliability. 

To learn everything you need to know about train travel, check out our guide for travelling by train in Indonesia .

By bus 

Unlike most countries, bus travel isn’t the most popular way of getting around . Buses are available in Java between major destinations, but the train is often the more comfortable and faster option. 

There are also buses in Bali and Lombok, which are a cheap way of getting around the island, although they’re not always the easiest to navigate. You can check out bus routes and book tickets online via 12Go.Asia . 

If you are travelling long distances between islands that host airports, flying can be a good option to save time. There are a few budget airlines in Indonesia that offer domestic flights at a low cost. However, many of the islands do not have airports, so you’ll need to take local ferries or boats to reach your next destination.

Also, keep in mind that taking a short-haul flight can be up to 10 times more polluting than taking a more environmentally-friendly option like a ferry.

By taxi 

The great thing about Indonesia is that there is nearly always a taxi around when you need it, whether it’s in the form of a car, tuk-tuk or moto taxi. And if there’s not, many popular destinations in Indonesia now support cab-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab. 

These apps work similarly to Uber, allowing you to hail bikes and taxis via an app. No haggling and you can pay with card. 

By private driver

Hiring a private driver for the day is a popular way for travellers to get around. You can normally hire one online on websites like Bookaway , through your accommodation or from a tour agency. The cost for a day can range between $35-100. 

If there are a lot of spots that you want to hit in one day, it can be a cost-efficient, comfortable and easy way to explore. 

Another popular way of getting around, especially on islands like Bali and Lombok is to rent your own scooter. They are extremely cheap to rent , costing less than $5 a day or between $30-50 for the month. 

Whilst it looks super fun zooming along next to rice paddies, there are some things that you need to consider before hopping on a bike: 

• Make sure that you’re a confident driver. There are so many bikes on the road that it’s easy to get into an accident. 
• Wear a helmet. 
• Have an international driver’s license. 
• In places like Bali, there are scooter-driving schools. So if you don’t feel confident enough, maybe check out one of these before hitting the roads.

Entry requirements and visa for Indonesia

Entry into Indonesia has recently been made significantly easier. The government have introduced a visa on arrival that you can apply and pay for beforehand online . This saves you a lot of time having to do the visa when you arrive.

It costs 500,000 IND ($35) for a 30-day visa. You’ll receive the visa as a PDF. Make sure to have this downloaded or take a screenshot so that you’re not relying on the airport Wi-Fi to load it.

If you want to stay longer than 30 days in Indonesia (who doesn’t?) then you can extend the visa for another 30 days for $35.

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your departure.

Must-try Indonesian food

You may not hear people shouting about Indonesian food as much as Thai or Vietnamese, but Indonesia has some incredible specialities that have also influenced a number of popular dishes throughout Asia. Here are some foods that you shouldn’t leave Indonesia without trying:

• Gado-gado — is an Indonesian salad made up of a variety of vegetables like carrots, potatoes and green beans, often served with tempeh and an egg. Sounds okay so far…but what makes this dish amazing is the peanut sauce that you smoother it all in. 
• Nasi goreng/Mie goreng — you will find both nasi goreng and mie goreng in almost every local establishment in Indonesia. ‘Goreng’ stands for fried, whilst ‘nasi’ means rice and ‘mie’ is noodles. Essentially these dishes are fried rice and noodles served with an array of vegetables and usually a fried egg on top. 
• Beef rendang — is an Indonesian curry that melts in your mouth. The meat is left to cook for hours in coconut milk and a ton of spices. It’s usually served with white rice. 
• Sate — is essentially skewered chunks of meat that taste exceptionally good. It can be anything from chicken, pork, beef, and mutton to fish or seafood. The meat is grilled over charcoal and served with an array of tasty sauces.

Essential travel tips for Indonesia

Here’s a selection of the best tips and pieces of information that may make your trip to Indonesia that bit easier:

Paying with Indonesian Rupiah in Indonesia

The currency used in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) . As of June 2023, $1 is equivalent to 15,000 IDR. 

More places are starting to accept debit and credit cards, but it’s always good to have cash on you, especially for local spots and markets. Plus, some restaurants still charge around 3% extra when paying by card.

ATMs are easy to find in popular destinations like Bali, Jakarta and Yogyakarta. If you venture out to other islands, it can be a lot harder to find one.

On smaller islands like Gili Islands or Nusa Penida, you’ll often find ATMs around the harbour, but to be on the safe side, always bring enough cash when travelling to smaller islands or the less touristic areas of Indonesia.

Withdrawing money from ATMs is mostly free of charge , but your own bank will likely charge a fee. The maximum withdrawal is mostly between 1,500,000 and 2,500,000 IDR. A few trusted ATMs are Mandiri, BCA, BNI and City Bank.

Permata Bank charges a fixed withdrawal fee of 49,999 IDR if you use a foreign card, so better to avoid this ATM as you can use almost all others without extra charges.

Buying a sim card in Indonesia

While a lot of cafes, restaurants and hotels offer free Wi-Fi, it’s likely that you’re going to want internet whilst out and about. We recommend getting a local sim card. The plans are extremely cheap.

The four main mobile providers in Indonesia are Telkomsel, IM3 Ooredoo (soon Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison), XL Axiata and Smartfren . You’ll be able to buy a sim card from one of these providers at most international airports in Indonesia or at a mobile provider’s store. 

You’ll need to make sure that your phone is ‘unlocked’ which means that you can put any sim card in your phone, rather than being locked to a specific provider. 

Indonesian language cheat sheet

The language spoken in Indonesia is Indonesian .

It’s always good to know a few essential words before travelling to a place, so here are a few to get you started:

• Hello – Selamat/Halo
• Thank you – Terima kasih
• Please – Tolong
• Sorry – Maaf
• Beer – Bir

The perfect packing list for Indonesia

Indonesia is a hot country all year round, averaging around 28 °C and can get pretty humid!

It’s best to bring loose-fitting, cool clothes and of course, your swimsuit if you’re heading to one of Indonesia’s tropical islands or beaches. 

If you’re planning on tackling one of Indonesia’s volcanoes, don’t forget some suitable hiking shoes and a jacket. It can get cold at altitude. 

Aside from the essential travel gear, here are some that have become permanent fixtures on our packing list: 

• Reusable water bottle – they’re better for the environment and can save you money on water.
• A portable charger – there’s probably going to be a time when your phone’s battery is on red, at a time that you desperately need it.
• An adaptor – Indonesia uses the same plugs as Europe (C&F). A universal travel adaptor is a great buy if you’re travelling between different continents.

Check out our full packing list for Southeast Asia.

Favourite accommodations

Le pirate island – komodo island.

While you can’t stay directly on Komodo Island, you can stay nearby and enjoy the luxury of the outdoor huts at Le Pirate Island. Each hut comes with a private terrace and beds above offering stunning ocean views. There is a restaurant and bar on-site and all huts are beachfront. After exploring Komodo Island, this is the perfect private island to return to enjoy relaxing and taking in the sights.

• Private island
• Beachfront huts
• Restaurant and bar on-site
• Excellent service

Rooms start at $43 per night

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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

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Tanzania is a big country, and the main  Tanzania Safari Tours  can be split into the north (The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater) or the south (The Selous and Ruaha). Most tourists flock to the north as it is comprised of the famed highlights of Tanzania – and rightly so as the wildlife is phenomenal.

The  Tanzania Safari  boasts an exceptional wildlife experience and is arguably one of Africa’s best  Tanzania Safari Holidays experiences you will ever have. When anyone thinks of the traditional African safari, it is always the wild scenery and impressive beauty of Tanzania that they are doubtless recalling from thousands of films and documentaries.

Tanzania Safari Tours Quick Facts

• Tanzania is home to Africa’s tallest mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro, with an altitude of 19,341 feet above sea level.
• There are more than 120 ethnic groups in Tanzania.
• Tanzania exports gold, cashews, cotton, and coffee.
• Tourism is a major source of revenue for Tanzania.
• About 80% of the population lives by subsistence farming or fishing.
• Tanzania is home to the Serengeti National Park, where massive herds of wildebeest and zebra can be spotted.
• The largest crab in the world – the coconut crab – calls Zanzibar, Tanzania its home.
• FUN FACT: Did you know? Queen frontman Freddie Mercury was born in Stone Town, Tanzania!

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• We pay attention and are aware of your need.
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• We love and live for Africa and its culture.
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Our safari tours are scheduled for  Group Safari Tanzania . Here are list of the  Best Tanzania Safari Tours  that we offer. Have a look:

Tanzania Camping Safari

• Highlights:
• At  Tanzania Camping Safari ,  you will have a rare chance to combine game drives with walking safaris
• Exceptional wildlife viewing and scenery throughout
• Luxurious accommodation in private settings and more.
• Active and adventurous travellers
• Bird watchers and nature photographers

Luxury Safari Tanzania

• With  Luxury Safari Tanzania  you are provided with exclusive, off-the-beaten track accommodation.
• Romantic suites, stunning views, fine food and more.
• Couples and honeymooners

Tanzania Lodge Safari

• These private  Tanzania Lodge Safari , are fully serviced and family-friendly accommodation designed just for you.
• Sensational game viewing
• Flexible daily schedules built around your needs
• Your favourite meals from your own chef
• Game drives, boating and guided walks
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• Multi-generational families or couples

Tanzania Combo Adventures

• These  Tanzania Combo Adventures  offer excellent game viewing all year – big cats, elephants and buffalo
• Secluded ocean-front chalet with your own hammock
• Massages and spa treatments
• Recommended for snorkelers and scuba divers
• Active travellers and families

Ultimate Guide To Tanzania Safari

• Northern Tanzania
• Great For: Watching wildebeest congregation and the Great Migration
• Highlights: Ngorongoro is amazing year round. It is not very big, and so the animals can’t widely disperse when there is plentiful grass and water.
• Best time to visit:  February is  Best Time To Visit Tanzania to witness the Great Migration .
• Southern Tanzania
• Great For: Wildlife viewing in the dry season from July to October.
• Highlights : As Ruaha and The Selous are relatively low land compared to northern Tanzania, they are affected a bit more by the rains. The Selous is closed from mid-March to the end of May, as the camps are inaccessible when it had been very wet.
• Best time to visit : July to September

Tanzania Safari Cost – A Guide For Tanzania Safari Prices

The  Tanzania Safari Cost  depends on the type of accommodation you choose or the transportation type that you use and more. Also the  Tanzania Safari Destinations  prices vary for the various activities included and services provided in the tour plans.

Gecko Adventures provided you with the best  Tanzania Safari Guide  which takes care of these and other expenses like park fees or transportation, and more. International flights are excluded though. Apart from this we also advice on your  Safari Packing List Tanzania so that you are well equipped with all your requirements on the trip. It is customary in Tanzania to tip the staff as they make your safari so unforgettable.

Authentic Custom Tanzania Safari Tours

We are specialists in  Tanzania Safari Tours  and safari activities! Arranging safari tours in Tanzania is our core business at Gecko Adventures. If you are contemplating travelling to Tanzania for your first Tanzania safari tour or coming back for a second or third time, then look no further. We are committed to making your dreams come true as we customize your tailor made bespoke Tanzania safari that will leave lasting memories throughout your life.

Gecko Adventure  with its customised tour packages will make your trip the  Best Safari in Tanzania  ever.

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                      Learn about Tanzania’s history, wildlife, and conservation on our Tanzania Destinations page … Greatest concentrations of wild animals, Tanzania is duly famed as a top … the region is incredibly rich in wildlife, though specific experiences. Explore with Gecko Adventure today!

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Ruaha national park, selous game reserve, tarangire and lake manyara national parks, kitulo national park, nyerere national park, ngorongoro highlnad, udzungwa mountains national park, kilimanjaro national parks.

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We have planned this safari for more than 7 months in advance and the agency patron Rama was extremely helpful with everything, having resolved any issues that might have appeared through e-mails. We initially paid a small part of the total cost online and the rest with cash…

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                Home to Africa’s most famous parks, Tanzania offers a truly unforgettable luxury safari experience; this itinerary provides an all-around Tanzanian wildlife experience. You’ll visit the finest national parks and get in touch with an expert to plan your tailor-made trip.

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Gecko Adventure Tanzania is TALA licensed tour company, a member of Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO). We organize a wide range of the Best Tanzania Safari Tours at reasonable prices, Contact Us for Kilimanjaro Treks, Safaris in Tanzania and Kenya, as well as leisure holidays in Zanzibar Islands.

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A Flawless and Unforgettable Family Adventure

This is by far has been the most rewarding trip of the trips that we have done taken together as a family. I am happy with Ramadhani for taking the time to understand what we were looking for and then organizing a fitting safari. We did...

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Editoral Review of Geckos Adventures

Geckos, a sister company of Intrepid Travel, focuses on the “young, adventurous, and penniless.” They say they do the “hard haggling” for you so you can save money and enjoy yourself more on your trip.

What Makes Them Stand Out?  

Geckos is adventure travel for the young, budget-minded traveler, with an eye toward responsible travel. This means traveling in small groups, mostly averaging 9 passengers, and never over 15. With Geckos Adventures, you can really ‘run wild’ as you explore a destination in a small group environment.

Who Travels With Them?

Most of Geckos’ small-group trips are now strictly for 18-29 year olds who are willing to step outside their comfort zones. Namely, they’re happy to ride public transport, bed down in family-run places, and want plenty of free time. Geckos stresses that their trips are for “travelers, not tourists.” Some “All Age” trips are offered for those who are “young at heart” but over 40. Groups are somewhat geographically diverse, but the majority of travelers hail from Australia and New Zealand.

Where Do They Operate?  

Geckos offers a huge variety of exciting global destinations, with 200+ trips across all seven continents. The company is perhaps best known for its South-east Asia trips to places like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

How Does it Work?

Geckos aims to keep its prices on the lower side, but this doesn’t mean skimping on experience. Accommodations are all locally owned and can range from shared guesthouses, to homestays, to an overnight train. As Geckos says, its hotels are always “cheap and cheerful” and “clean, comfortable, and centrally located.” Prices include some meals and some activities, a knowledgeable local guide, and all forms of transport (usually local, and anything from buses to bikes, trains to ferries, cable cars to camels).

Why Travel With Them?

Geckos is a good choice if you’re between the ages of 18-39 and looking for a fun, cheap, no-frills, and authentic adventure. Geckos itineraries provide plenty of free time and flexibility, plus the ability to budget more on the ground instead of paying for activities ahead of time. Additionally, Geckos will arrange a private tour geared to your own interests. Repeat customers get discounts on subsequent trips – and if you turn 40 in the meantime, and are no longer eligible for Geckos, you can apply the discount to an Intrepid trip.

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About the company.

At Geckos we’ve taken the dorkiness out of group travel. You’ll snack on the tastiest grub, hang out with people your own age (18-29) and clamber aboard public transport, sleep in family run places, see stuff other tourists never knew existed and have plenty of free time along the way.

We tread lightly, think local and make sure our trips are helping not hindering the places we visit. Plus, our local leaders are rad humans.

If you’ve got an open mind, a sense of adventure and are willing to step outside your comfort zone then you’ll fit right in. We’re for travellers who aren’t afraid to order off the local menu, jump in a tuk-tuk or take a punt on a new friend.

We reckon everyone should be able to see this great world, so we make sure our trips don’t cost the earth (literally and metaphorically). We make sure you see more awesome stuff, stay in more awesome places and eat more awesome things for your hard earned dollar.

We’ve done all the hard haggling for you, and because you’re travelling with a gang of friends, the cost is shared. We love you and we want to take you on the trip of a lifetime, whatever your budget.

When you’re travelling with a small group, you’ll get to know your gang of fellow travellers pretty well. Which means you’ll head home with a whole lot of new BFFs, rather than a hundred strange Facebook friend requests.

That’s why we based our Geckos symbol on the Native American crossed arrows. It means friendship. And we are totally down for making new friends.

Our guides are locals and our lodgings are locally owned, keeping profits and skills in the communities. We offset our carbon emissions; we don’t shirk the responsibility by passing the buck to our travellers. And we’ve set up a bunch of community and climate projects, which anyone can get involved in.

Geckos Adventures is committed to investing in the local communities we visit. To ensure we are offering adequate support to a variety of projects, Geckos has partnered with The Intrepid Foundation. Through this partnership, we can offer our travellers a more substantial base for donation and a greater selection of projects to support.

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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THE BEST YOU CAN FIND BY FAR THE BEST SHUTTLE SERVICES FROM CAPE TOWN TO THE GARDEN ROUTE AND CUSTOM MADE PRIVATE TOURS BOOK ONLINE NOW! WELCOME TO GECKO TRAVEL & TOURS

Scheduled shuttle services we offer a scheduled shuttle service, 5 days a week between plettenberg bay/cape town and return from as little r560pp – r630pp per way click here to read more gecko travel & tours offers you luxury, private tours in cape town and the garden route , scheduled shuttle services and airport shuttle services in cape town and the garden route as well as otter trail transfers and other stunning hikes done by our knowledgeable and passionate tour guides. gecko travel & tours , being a family owned and operated company, offers a scheduled shuttle service between plettenberg bay and cape town as well as chartered scholar shuttle services where our first priority is the safety of the children in our care. we run this service weekly on a sunday and monday from plettenberg bay to various schools in george and back again on fridays. all our drivers and all our vehicles fully comply with all the required safety regulations and public liability insurance of r5 000 000.00 per vehicle as well as all the relevant road- & scholar- permits. all our staff are professional, friendly punctual and always helpful going above the call of duty to ensure all our clients are happy travellers. gecko travel & tours invites you to make memories that will last a lifetime while we take the stress out of travelling, where we tailor-make your tour to your perfection where we stop and go at your pace, or tee off on some of south africa’s best courses on our exclusive golf tours. our tours take place in luxury a cross-over suv, 8-seater or 13-seater vehicles. all our vehicles are air-conditioned and large trailers ensure that there is ample space for your luggage. all overnight accommodation varies from 3- to 5 star establishments or to suite your budget. our tour destinations in and around cape town include the cape peninsula where the atlantic and indian oceans meet, beautiful table mountain, robben island where nelson mandela was imprisoned and the cape winelands, home to some of the world’s best-loved vineyards. our garden route tours visit oudtshoorn , knysna , tsitsikamma and plettenberg bay. feed an ostrich in oudtshoorn and explore the cango caves and cango wildlife ranch. search knysna’s indigenous forests for the elusive elephants and enjoy a sunset champagne cruise on the knysna lagoon. attempt the world’s highest bungee jump on your way to the tsitsikamma national park. take to the water at plettenberg bay, enjoy spectacular land-based whale watching and get reacquainted with your wild side with spectacular animal experiences . you will be astounded at what the garden route has to offer. click on the links to find out more about our fun day tours in and around cape town and the garden route, our private, custom made day tours , and our luxurious, extended garden route tours . all our tours are conducted by accredited tour guides. our extensive experience and local knowledge means that we know where to find those secret gems and to show you those treasures hidden off the beaten track. all you have to do is relax and enjoy the ride. travellers have rated gecko travel & tours as “excellent” on tripadvisor, and we have been awarded the tripadvisor certificate of excellence since 2015. reach more than your expectations with gecko travel & tours.

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Recommended packing list

Our advice: think about everything you want to pack and then only take half of that. Travelers are responsible for carrying their luggage around the hotel and airports, so it's important that it's a manageable weight and size. Plus, you'll want to save room for some gifts and souvenirs to bring back!

Clothes Walking shoes Shirts Socks Underwear Shorts/Pants/Jeans Sweatshirt/Jacket Rain gear Pajamas

Toiletries Bathroom bag (shampoo, brush, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant) Glasses/contacts/solution Sunblock Tissues Medication

Money Spending money ATM card

Miscellaneous Protective face mask Evidence of your negative PCR test (or full vaccination, if applicable) Tour itinerary Alarm clock Umbrella Sunglasses Camera ID and passport (if necessary)

know before you go

What to expect

our promise

Moscow Metro Tour

• Page active

Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

• Moscow Tours
• Customized tours
• Moscow for kids
• Evening activities
• Moscow evening activities
• St Petersburg evening activities
• Day trips out of Moscow
• Golden Ring tours
• St Petersburg tours
• Russian tour destinations
• Package tours
• Moscow highlights
• Travel Tips
• Upcoming group tours
• Moscow events

Moscow metro of the last 20 years

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Complete Packing List for Contiki Tour of Portugal and Spain

P acking for a 9-night Contiki tour that covers four cities, two countries and four different hotel rooms over 8 nights can be a little intimidating. You have to pack enough to meet all of your needs but pack light enough to be able to move easily from one place to another.

Here, I share my complete packing list for my Contiki tour of Portugal and Spain as well as my packing list for that dreaded overnight flight from the U.S. to Europe.

What to Pack for an Overnight Flight

All the products on my list I bought in mini sizes so they would pass TSA scrutiny and fit into a small travel bag I tucked into my backpack for easy access during the flight. In terms of packing for the plane, especially overnight ones, I make sure I always bring these essential things:

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Facial wipes (washing your face in the bathrooms can be too messy)
• Aquaphor  (Your body gets naturally dehydrated on planes)
• Small face moisturizer and face wash (Doing skin care on the plan can be a good way to pass the time!)
• Small mighty patches  (I always get a little zit on planes and this treats them by the time you step off the plane.
• Neck pillow
• Compression Socks (this helps increase circulation and reduce swelling)
• Small body lotion
• Eye mask  (People next to you will probably turn on their reading lights)
• Melatonin (I have a hard time falling asleep on planes)
• Ear plugs  (In case my Air Pods die or I want to block out sound more comfortably)
• Water bottle
• Portable charger
• Universal charger  (I bought mine on Amazon for $25)
• Small perfumes (I also go to Sephora to grab small perfume samples, so once I land and get off the plane I have something handy to spritz on to refresh and smell nice)
• Tide stick (You never know when it may come in handy)

What to Pack for the Tour

I am a light traveler – the less I have to lug around with me the better. I brought a small suitcase and the large Contiki-branded backpack the tour company sent me the week before the trip. If you like to buy a lot of souvenirs, consider sizing up to a medium-sized suitcase but not packing it full at the start of the trip so you’ll have room to bring back all of your treasures.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  Check the weather at your destination(s) periodically before you pack. This will heavily impact what you bring. I traveled in March, when temperatures in Portugal and Spain were projected to be cooler (low 60s Fahrenheit) with a decent chance of precipitation.

Because of this, I packed these things to wear:

• Stretchy boyfriend jeans
• Low-rise Boot jeans
• 1 linen lightweight pant
• Short flowy skirt
• 1 long flowy skirt
• 3 long-sleeved shirts (mix and match)
• Round neck jersey tank top
• Bodysuit top
• Basic Ribbed Tee
• 1 lightweight raincoat
• Vintage Belt Accessory
• A pair of black boots
• 1 pair of comfortable white sneakers

With all of that in my small suitcase, I had just enough room to carry back a few small items.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  I use the rolling packing method to save space. Tightly roll up all of your jeans, tops, and jackets to keep them wrinkle-free and make for more room in your suitcase.

Toiletries to Pack

It can be tricky to know what to bring in terms of personal items because it depends on what the accommodations will provide. I reached out in advance to Contiki to understand what I would need to bring.

 Here’s the list:

• Face Wash and Moisturizer
• Any extra small skincare items you might need (medicinal topicals, etc.)
• Not every hotel offers complimentary towels (and in some cases you may find yourself having to pay for a towel service). Microfiber towels are great because they are incredibly fast-drying fabric and this is better than having to lug around a damp wet standard towel as you go from place to place.
• All the Portugal and Spanish hotels we stayed in supplied shampoo and conditioner; that may not be the case for some other country trips.
• Clips and ties for hair
• Skin primer
• Eyebrow gel
• Lightweight skin tint
• Undereye cream
• Blush cheek tint
• MAC Lipstick

The post Complete Packing List for Contiki Tour of Portugal and Spain appeared first on She Buys Travel .