Introduction
Excited to try Sri Lanka as your next travel destination? Nicknamed the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is an island nation that offers you a different experience in terms of climate, nature and culture as you travel across the country from North to South or East to West. It is best to be prepared as one day is the longest it will take to experience the diversity in Sri Lanka. Check out the tips below and pack your essential items when travelling to Sri Lanka for a memorable and comfortable trip.
Men’s Packing List
Packing can be a pain if you don’t know what to expect and are not aware of your destination. Here is a practical list of essential items that you gentlemen need to carry when travelling to Sri Lanka.
- Backpack (for short trips within Sri Lanka or to carry essentials like first aid, food and a simple change of clothes)
- Travel trainers (Sri Lanka is known for its occasional rough terrain)
- Hoody (Who knows when it will pour)
- Jeans (Obviously)
- Sarong (for some mingling time with the locals and to visit temples)
- Pairs of shorts (the best option for hikes and treks)
- Comfortable Shirts (preferably short sleeved as long sleeves may be a bother due to the hot climate)
- Toiletries
- Swimwear (for a dip in the sea or pool, depends.)
- Hat/ Cap (you’ll thank us later!)
- Rain coat
Women’s Packing List
Ladies, you are going to want to take notes (or screenshots) of this one. Let’s check if you’ve got all these if you are planning to holi-yay in Sri Lanka:
- long dresses (best be comfortable as the climate is generally warm)
- travel trainers (for rough terrain)
- hair ties (or a haircut. Your choice!)
- light jacket (for cooler climates, nights and to protect yourself from the scorching sun)
- Pair of shorts (if you fancy a hike)
- Jeans (for obvious reasons)
- Swimwear (it is difficult to resist a dip in the sea)
- Comfortable nightwear
- Shirts
- Sandals (open toe shoes reduce the heat in your body)
- Shawl (to cover your shoulders when visiting a temple or simply to keep you warm)
- Toiletries
- Hat/ Cap
- Raincoat/Umbrella (during the monsoon season)
First Aid
For emergencies, it is always wise to pack First Aid (especially with kids). Have a handy bag that contains these items when you pack for Sri Lanka.
- Antiseptic wipes
- Bandages & Tape
- Diarrhoea kit
- Moleskin Tape
- Needles and thread
- Paracetamol
- Plasters
- Scissors/nail clippers
- Travel Sickness Tablets
- Tweezers
- Antihistamines
- Wart Caps
- Gauze
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Gel for muscle aches and joint aches
- Betadine
- Vicks/ Vaporub/Menthol Oil
- Medicine for other health concerns
Toiletries
Although obvious, here is a list of essential toiletries that you would want to carry if you plan to visit Sri Lanka.
- Aftershave
- Deodorant
- Disposable razors
- Dry shampoo
- Electric razor
- Perfume
- Shampoo & conditioner
- Toothbrush
- Toothbrush travel container/ vanity case
- Toothpaste
- Wash bag
- Moisturiser
Documents
Carry these vital documents when you travel to Sri Lanka so that your identity and credibility is ensured.
- Passport
- Copy Of Travel Insurance
- Copy Of Vaccine Certificate
- Document wallet
- Driving licence/International Driving Licence
- Photocopy of passport
- Copy of your visa grant notification
- Special permit documents (scuba diving/ swimming with the whales/ camping at National Parks)
Tech/Gadgets
Keep the following gadgets close to you to be utilised when needed.
- Laptop
- Digital camera
- Drone
- Action / underwater camera
- Memory card hard case
- Memory cards
- VPN
- DSLR camera
- External hard drive
- Unlocked smartphone
- Power bank
- DSLR camera lens
- Tripod
- Batteries
Health and Safety
As Sri Lanka is a tropical country, it is sometimes the paradise of bugs and exotic animals. Make sure to carry these items with you to keep you safe from animals and unnecessary attention.
- Mosquito spray
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellant
- Travel locks
- Antimalarials
- Hand sanitizers
- Face masks
- Pepper spray
- Pocket knife/scissors
Miscellaneous
Aside from the obvious lists, here’s a compilation of miscellaneous items that could be needed during your stay in Sri Lanka.
- Sunglasses
- Flip flops
- Coffee Mug
- Dry bags
- Earphones
- Ziplock bags
Lightweight Travel Towel - Phone Sim Tray Opener
- Worldwide Travel Plug
- Ear plugs
- Bluetooth speaker
- noise cancelling headphones
Conclusion
It is no easy feat packing for a trip but knowing what to pack is somewhat helpful. Your time in Sri Lanka could be made better by being prepared and packing right for Sri Lanka. Plan a trip to Sri Lanka and bring along these essential items to make memories of a lifetime.