Packing essentials

Sri Lanka is tropical and climatically the island divided into 2 zones and the Sri Lanka packing list focuses on the essentials you will need for your trip without over-packing. Too many things equal too many worries, so try not to be too concerned about what the weather is like in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Packing List Essential

Waterproof phone cover

Whether you’re out in the rain or tip-toeing behind the enormous waterfalls of Sri Lanka, it’s a wise investment to get yourself a waterproof phone cover.  use a Lifeproof Waterproof Case, so never have to worry about dust, water, sand and scratching your phone. It also handles being dropped all the time. Not only do they keep your phone safe from water damage, but you’ll also be able to take photos on the move too. If you want to use your phone near water, a cheap phone pouch or case will do the job, but one of them is a definite must and this item is so high up on the Sri Lanka packing list.

A Reliable power bank

Sri Lanka can be a crazy place to get around and as a result, you’ll spend a lot of time looking at maps trying to work out the best route to your next destination. A few hours on Google Maps is a sure way to drain your phone battery, alas, a power bank is a necessity. 

Lightweight Rain Jacket 

A lightweight rain jacket is a very handy addition to your adventure backpack. For the late-night moped rides, through to rain protection in torrential downpours or waterfall spray, you’ll be happy to have one of these in your bag. Sri Lanka is known for its great weather but it’s pretty common for there to be a short burst of rain each day. The rain jacket is on the Sri Lanka Packing list because you will regret not having one as you are dripping from head to toe during a downpour.

Bug Spray

Prevention is far better than finding a cure, especially in a place like Sri Lanka. The pesky tropical mosquitos love to hang around the same places you do, around palm trees, lagoons, villa pools and pretty much anywhere else you’ll find water. When you are packing for Sri Lanka you need to get yourself some mosquito repellent that has a high DEET percentage, it’ll stop you from getting bitten, scratching and potentially ending up with something nasty like dengue fever. Just remember to pack it in your checked luggage so it doesn’t get taken away at the airport.

Mini shampoo/conditioner, Toiletry Bottles (leak proof)

No one wants to be that unfortunate soul who arrives in Sri Lanka and opens their suitcase to find a shampoo explosion. It’s not the ideal way to start your trip. The best thing to do is pour your shampoo into a small leak-proof bottle so that you don’t carry more weight than you need on your trip and you are secure against the much-feared luggage explosion

Worldwide power adapter

Charging all your gear can be difficult enough in Sri Lanka, it pays to get yourself a good quality adapter that will plug into any wall without fail. If you get yourself a worldwide adapter, it will come in handy for the rest of your travels too. There’s nothing worse than traveling around Asia and having to buy a new adapter for every single country. Get a universal adapter and simplify your travels

Hiking/Water Shoes

You’re probably starting to realize there is a bit of a reoccurring theme here. Water-related adventures can be found all around Sri Lanka and so can a lot of sharp, slippery surfaces too. A great pair of water shoes will keep your feet from getting cut up on coral or any other unforgiving surface you might stumble upon.

Travel wallet/ Passport Holder

take a travel wallet with you everywhere! Inside it, keep your cash, passport, credit cards, and any other important travel documents with you. These are items you can’t afford to lose so it’s nice to have them all in one place instead of sprawled around your luggage. Worst case scenario, if your bag gets lost or stolen, by keeping this separate you’ll have the essentials to sort through any problems that arise. Often it is the only thing I put in the safe or locker at a hotel

Waterproof dry bag

You got it, another tropical essential. When you’ve seen as many people lose their phones or camera gear to water damage as have, you’ll understand why you place so much importance on a waterproof dry bag. A quality dry bag will do as it suggests by keeping your belongings air-tight even if the bag happens to become fully immersed in water during snorkeling, a boat trip or waterfall adventures.

Clothing

Keep it light: Pack athletic and casual is the answer when you are wondering what clothes to pack for Sri Lanka. It is important to respect local customs. Long sleeve and pants or shorts past the knees should be respected when heading out to temples or other sacred sites. This means you need to have something to cover your shoulders and legs above the knees.

Bathing suit and Quick-dry towel

Between the beaches and swimming holes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to go swimming, so definitely bring your bathing suit. I’d also suggest bringing a quick-dry towel.  In addition to being your