When heading to the Gili Islands from Bali, packing light is essential for a smooth and stress-free fast boat journey. The Gilis—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back island vibe.
However, the small boats and beach landings typical of the fast boat trips make it essential to pack smart. Here’s how to pack light for your fast boat trip to the Gili Islands while ensuring you have everything you need.
Choose a Compact, Lightweight Bag
The first step to packing light is choosing the right bag. For a trip to the Gili Islands, avoid large suitcases or bulky luggage, as space on the fast boats is often limited. Instead, opt for:
- Backpacks or duffel bags: These are easier to carry and stow on board, and they give you more flexibility when walking on the beach or navigating the narrow streets on the islands.
- Waterproof or water-resistant bags: Since boarding and disembarking can involve wading through shallow water, a bag that protects your belongings from splashes is a smart choice.
If you’re staying for just a few days, a carry-on-sized bag should be more than enough.
Prioritize Light, Breathable Clothing
The Gili Islands have a tropical climate, so you’ll want to pack light and comfortable clothing that suits the island’s laid-back vibe. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Swimwear: Since the Gilis are all about beach time, snorkeling, and swimming, pack at least two swimsuits.
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothes: Think sarongs, lightweight shorts, t-shirts, and loose-fitting dresses that are perfect for warm weather.
- A cover-up or sarong: Sarongs are versatile and can be used as a towel, blanket, or beach cover-up.
- Minimal layers: You won’t need heavy clothes, but a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt can be useful for breezy boat rides or cooler evenings.
Stick to the Essentials for Footwear
When it comes to footwear, simplicity is key. The Gili Islands have a no-car policy, and you’ll likely be walking, cycling, or using a horse-drawn cart (cidomo) to get around. The best footwear options include:
- Flip-flops or sandals: Perfect for the beach and easy to slip on and off when boarding the fast boat.
- Light sneakers or water shoes: These can be useful if you’re planning on hiking, biking, or exploring inland trails.
Since there are no paved roads on the islands, there’s no need for heavy shoes or boots.
Minimize Toiletries
To save space and pack light, bring only the essential toiletries and personal items. Consider travel-sized versions of your necessities, or share items like sunscreen and shampoo with travel companions. Here’s a list of basics to pack:
- Sunscreen: The Gili Islands get a lot of sun, so pack a high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine environment.
- Insect repellent: The islands are home to mosquitoes, especially at dawn and dusk, so pack a small bottle of insect repellent.
- Basic skincare: Travel-sized versions of your moisturizer, face wash, and any other skincare essentials.
- Reusable water bottle: Hydration is key in the tropical heat, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay refreshed.
Many guesthouses and hotels provide soap, shampoo, and towels, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer specific products.
Pack Only the Tech You Need
If you’re visiting the Gili Islands, chances are you’re there to disconnect and enjoy nature, so there’s no need to overpack gadgets. Bring only the tech you’ll use:
- Phone: For photos, navigation, and communication, your smartphone should be enough.
- Camera: If you’re into photography, a lightweight camera can capture the stunning scenery, but avoid packing heavy equipment unless necessary.
- Chargers and portable battery: With frequent power outages on the Gilis, a portable battery pack can come in handy to keep your devices charged.
Leave your laptop behind unless you absolutely need it. The islands’ slower pace is a great excuse to unplug.
Bring Island-Specific Essentials
There are a few additional items you’ll want to have on hand to make the most of your Gili Islands trip:
- Snorkeling gear: While you can rent gear on the islands, bringing your own snorkel and mask ensures you’re ready to dive into the water at any time.
- Beach towel or quick-dry towel: These are lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great choice for drying off after a swim.
- Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses.
- Reusable shopping bag: Useful for picking up snacks, drinks, or souvenirs without contributing to plastic waste.
Use Packing Cubes for Organization
Packing cubes are a great tool for staying organized, especially when you’re trying to pack light. They help compress clothing, keep items in order, and make it easier to find things in your bag. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Clothes: Separate swimwear, daytime clothes, and evening wear into different cubes.
- Toiletries: Use a small cube or pouch for toiletries and keep it handy for easy access.
- Tech: Keep chargers, cables, and devices in one dedicated cube to avoid losing them in your bag.
Leave Room for Souvenirs
Although packing light means bringing fewer items, it’s also a good idea to leave a little room in your bag for souvenirs or local finds. The Gili Islands have plenty of local markets where you can pick up beachwear, handcrafted jewelry, and island-inspired keepsakes. By packing light, you’ll have room for these special items.
