What to Pack for the Komodo Islands – Essential Komodo Packing List

This What to Pack for the Komodo Islands Guide gives you a comprehensive list on what to pack, what to skip, and most importantly; how to get it right the first time.

Packing for a Komodo Islands trip may not be as straightforward as it seems. You need to factor in what you will need for the boat and daily excursions whether it’s hiking, underwater activities or visiting the legendary Komodo Dragons. Read on for our essential Komodo packing list.

 

 

Clothing Essentials

Daywear

• Pack breathable clothes for hot, active days.
• Choose cotton or linen shirts, tank tops, and loose trousers or shorts.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts or light pants for sun protection or hikes.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap to block direct sun.
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses for extra cover.
• Carry a light scarf or wrap. It is helpful for the wind or the sun.

 

Eveningwear 

Carry a light jumper, wrap, or cardigan for breezy nights.

 

Swimwear

• Bring at least two swimsuits; one is always drying.
• Pack one swim-friendly top that doubles as sun protection. It is useful when you are snorkelling or kayaking.
• Wear a sarong, kaftan, or throw-on dress for transitions between sea, deck, and shore.
• Wear a rash guard for sun and jellyfish protection during snorkelling or kayaking.
• Choose quick-dry fabrics that won’t stay damp or cling to the skin.
• Pack a quick-dry towel. It is useful between swims and island hikes.

 

Tips: 

• Carry a rain jacket or poncho if you are visiting during the wet season.
• Avoid synthetic fabrics. They trap sweat and stick.
• Pick light colours. They feel cooler and look better in photos.
• Repeat and layer outfits to save space in your cabin.

• If you are going to hike, choose lightweight pants to protect your legs from scratches by branches or thorny plants. 
• Choose versatile pieces you can layer or re-wear.
• Let damp clothes air out on deck hooks or railings.
• Use a dry bag or zip pouch to separate damp clothes during island stops.

 

 

Footwear

Hiking and Walking Shoes 

• Choose one pair of hiking shoes or trekking sandals with good grip and quick-dry material. Most trails are short, but the heat builds quickly.
• Avoid heavy boots. 

 

Shoes for Boats and Beaches

• Bring slip-on sandals or flip-flops for moving around the deck. You might also be simply barefoot on deck depending on the boat and the experience.
• Wear water shoes or reef shoes when entering shallow water or rocky shorelines.
• Avoid heavy footwear. It stays wet and takes up space.

 

Tips:

• Choose shoes that dry fast and are easy to clean.
• Skip hard-soled shoes or heels, if possible, unless you are celebrating a milestone. The deck can tilt, shift, or stay damp. Heels and stiff soles reduce grip and increase your slip risk. Hard soles also clunk on wooden floors and feel out of place in a quiet, compact space. Most yachts, including ALEXA, lean towards barefoot luxury. You likely won’t use them. They take up space and rarely leave the bag.
• Pack one pair that works both on land and in water if you are tight on space.
• Leave room in your dry bag for sandals and wet swimwear during island stops.

 

 

Sun and Insect Protection

Sun Protection Essentials

Choose a reef-safe sunscreen and SPF lip balm. Komodo’s sunlight is intense even on cloudy days.

Insect Protection Essentials

Pack mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream. You may find them useful after hikes or dusk excursions.

 

Tips:

• Use reef-safe products only. Standard sunscreens can damage coral reefs.
• Keep sunscreen and repellent in sealable bags. They could leak in Komodo’s heat.
• Reapply sunscreen every few hours, especially after snorkelling or sweating on hikes. Water and sweat wear it off fast.
• Keep lip balm handy during hikes and boat rides. Sun and salt dry out your skin quickly.
• Apply repellent after hikes, not during dragon walks. Most mosquito repellents have strong scents that Komodo dragons can detect. These smells may confuse or disturb them and interfere with natural behaviour. 
• Avoid citrus-scented lotions. They may attract bugs.

 

 

Water and Island Gear

Snorkelling and Swim Gear

Most tours provide basic snorkelling equipment, so only bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer a personal fit. 

 

Gear for Island Excursions 

• Carry a waterproof pouch for your phone, passport, and other valuables.
• Get binoculars for wildlife and bird watching.
• Use a lightweight daypack to hold snacks, water, and gear on hikes.
• Add a rain cover or zip-lock bag for small electronics.

• Carry a power bank, extra batteries and memory cards. Charging spots are often shared or limited.
• Bring a universal adapter (Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs).

 

Photography and Video Essentials

• Bring a camera or GoPro. Komodo’s views are worth capturing. If you are diving, you could also bring an underwater camera.
• Pack a waterproof case or pouch for your camera.

 

Tips:

• Check drone rules with your guide before flying on protected islands. Flying without permission can lead to fines or confiscation, especially inside Komodo National Park zones.
• Choose compact gear that fits into one small bag.
• Test waterproof gear before the trip. Saltwater damage is hard to fix.

 

 

Health and Toiletries

Medicines and Sea Sickness Aids  

• Pack motion sickness pills or pressure bands if you are sensitive to waves.
• Carry painkillers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrhoea tablets. Pharmacies may be harder to access than in larger towns.
• Bring any prescription meds you need, in clearly labelled containers.

 

Skincare and Hygiene

• Carry travel-sized toiletries to save space in the cabin. Most yachts, including ALEXA Private Cruises, provide the basics.
• Use hand sanitisers. Some island facilities may lack soap or running water.
• Add a small pack of wipes for quick clean-ups during hikes or stops.

 

Extras Worth Packing

• Pack a small first aid kit. Include plasters, antiseptic cream, a few gauze pads and something for blisters.
• Pack menstrual products if needed. Your preferred supplies may not be available remotely.
• Bring electrolyte sachets. The heat and salt water can dehydrate you fast.
• Use a refillable water bottle to cut down on plastic and stay hydrated.

 

Tips:

• Check the medicines’ expiry date before packing them.
• Keep liquids and ointments in a separate pouch to avoid leaks.
• Consult your doctor about malaria precautions. The Komodo Islands are a malaria risk area according to the US CDC.

 

 

Essentials for Boat Life

Daily Comforts on Deck  

• Bring a book, Kindle, or journal for downtime between excursions.
• Bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper. Boats can have ambient sounds like water pumps or anchor chains.
• Add lightweight sleepwear. Cabins can get warm.

 

Travel Documents and Power  

Print or download park permits, hotel, and cruise confirmations before you leave Labuan Bajo, as the signal could get patchy once you leave the mainland.

 

Packing Tips for Komodo Islands 

Smart Packing

• Use soft-sided luggage. It fits better than hard cases.
• Pack essentials in your daypack, not your main bag, for easy access during island stops.
• Roll your clothes. It saves space and prevents wrinkles.
• Stick to one day bag and one main bag to keep the cabin clutter-free.

 

What Not to Pack for Komodo Islands

• Avoid full makeup kits or hair tools. You won’t need them.
• Leave plastic bags behind. Komodo is a regulated zone.
• Avoid packing ‘just in case’ items. Depending on your boat, space could be limited. You should check with your boat company if in doubt.
• Avoid overpacking. There could be less storage than you think.

 

Final Packing Reminders

• Pack with movement in mind. You will be climbing in and out of boats.
• Check weight limits if you are flying on a domestic or seaplane route.
• Label your bags. Things shift around on a boat.
• What to pack for Komodo Islands should be dependant on your individual needs, so remember to pack things that are important to your daily life and what you want out of your trip.

 

 

Book Your Komodo Islands Luxury Yacht Charter

ALEXA Private Cruises offers a completely private way to experience the breathtaking Komodo Islands. With just one master suite, this beautifully handcrafted yacht is designed exclusively for one couple. This ensures complete privacy combined with personalised service and absolute luxury. 

From diving with manta rays and exploring hidden pink-sand beaches to gourmet dining prepared by your private chef, every moment aboard can be tailored to you. Secure your luxury voyage today and let ALEXA redefine luxury at sea.