Picture this: you’ve just arrived on Gili Trawangan – bright blue waters, swaying palm trees… and likely a 20kg backpack stuck to your back like a lovesick koala (or a suitcase that you’ll have to carry around). Not exactly the ideal scenery, is it? I told you packing for the Gili Islands may be tricky!
Let’s be real: when you’re island-hopping from Bali to the Gilis, you’re probably already traveling with a backpack or suitcase. Carrying that heavy thing around Gili T’s harbor, sandy paths, and bumpy bike rides is not fun. But what if I told you there’s a way to enjoy the Gilis without the burden of a heavy bag?
So, in this post, I’m sharing my wisdom learned the hard-way (and a few funny stories) to help you pack light and truly enjoy the Gili Islands. Don’t miss the Gilis packing checklist at the end of this post; you can save it and use it when you’re ready to pack.
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Quick Packing List
Rule #1: Your Carry-On is Your Best Friend
I’ve been there. Dragging my 20kg backpack from the Gili T harbor to my inland accommodation was not the dreamy island arrival I’d expected.
If you’re coming from Bali, you will probably be in the same boat (or, well, ferry) – already traveling with a suitcase or large backpack. But for a short Gili getaway (like three days, for example), you really don’t need all that stuff. Think about it: snorkeling, sunbathing, sunset cocktails… are you really going to need those trainers or high heels? Nope!
Everything you need will easily fit into a 30L carry-on backpack. And here’s a game-changer I wish I’d thought about sooner: leave your big bag in luggage storage at Padang Bai (the harbor you’ll likely use in Bali). I checked – they have it (and it’s high-rated)!
Pack your essentials in your carry-on before leaving Bali, leave the rest in storage, and pick it up when you return. Why is this so important? Well, on the Gilis, there are no cars or scooters. You’ll be walking, cycling (on terrifying, rickety bikes – be warned!), or relying on those poor overworked horses. Trust me, a small backpack is much easier to manage than a suitcase, especially if your accommodation is a bit further inland.
This carry-on backpack is perfect for Gili getaways. It’s small enough for easy transport but big enough for all your essentials, and it even has compartments to keep your clothes organized and wrinkle-free.
2. Rule #2: Pack Light and Buy There
If you’re worried about forgetting something essential while packing light, don’t be! Gili Trawangan has plenty of shops and mini-markets where you can find pretty much anything you need.
Plus, let’s be honest – you’ll probably want to buy some souvenirs, right? Gili T is full of cute beachwear, beautiful sarongs, and unique gifts you’ll want to bring back home.
There’s this one shop, “Another Day in Paradise,” that’s seriously dangerous for your wallet – everything is so cute! I learned the hard way that overpacking means less room for souvenirs. So, pack light, leave some space in your bag, and support local businesses by treating yourself to some local goodies!
Rule #3: Don’t Forget Your Dry Bag
A dry bag is a lifesaver, especially for snorkeling trips on those classic Indonesian outrigger boats. Jumping in and out, you will get wet, and so will your bag if you’re not careful where you place it.
A dry bag keeps your electronics safe and dry – essential if your carry-on is your only luggage. Actually bringing a dry bag is a smart strategy to have some extra space.
This dry bag isn’t just for snorkeling around the Gilis; it’s perfect for all sorts of water activities, like kayaking or white water rafting in Bali. It’s surprisingly roomy but still folds down small enough to fit into your carry-on when you don’t need it.
Rule #4: Say Yes to Mix & Match
Packing light for the Gili Islands is all about choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. A few basic tops, a couple of pairs of shorts or skirts, and a cute dress or two is truly all you need.
Pick fabrics that dry quickly or that you don’t mind wearing a little damp. Humidity is high in both Bali and the Gilis, so things don’t always dry overnight. Plus, the vibe on Gili T is super relaxed. Flip-flops are perfectly acceptable at most restaurants and bars – it’s the most chilled-out place I’ve ever been!
For a three-day trip, I’d recommend one pair of shorts, three crop tops, two cute dresses, and a couple of bikinis (one that can double as a top is a great idea!). You’ll likely spend most of your time at the beach anyway, so there’s really no need to overpack. Less is definitely more on Gili T!
Rule #5: Ditch the Sneakers, Embrace the Flip-Flops
Leave those sneakers at home! Unless you’re planning a serious padel match at Island Padel (near Malibu Beach Club), you won’t need them.
Gili islands are all about relaxation: sunbathing, swimming, trying delicious food, maybe a massage or two… and cycling! Renting a bike is the best way to get around, but you definitely don’t need sneakers for that.
Most of the time, you’ll be barefoot on the beach anyway. So, pack a pair of sturdy flip-flops or sandals – they’re perfect for cycling, strolling through the sand, and pretty much everything else you’ll be doing on the Gilis.
These flip-flops are perfect for the laid-back Gili Islands vibe! They’re comfy, strong, and great for biking around without worrying about them falling apart.
Rule #6: Consider Packing Beach Shoes
I’ve never used beach shoes before – growing up near rocky beaches, I figured my feet were pretty tough. Turns out, I was wrong! My feet definitely haven’t forgotten those beaches covered in corals and shells on the southwest side of Gili T! Underwater, it’s not just sand; there are sharp corals and shells that can really hurt if you step on them wrong. So, even if you’re not a beach shoe person, trust me, you might want to consider them here.
These water shoes are comfortable, and a huge plus is that they dry super fast, which is a lifesaver in humid weather. They also keep the sand out!
Rule #7: No Long Dresses (If You’re Cycling), Yes to Short Dresses!
Let me tell you a story: Gili T, beautiful evening, I’m all dressed up in a stunning, flowy, beachy long dress, ready for dinner. I figured, no problem, I’ll just cycle there, I can keep my dress clear of the wheels, right? Wrong! Not once, but twice I almost ended up flashing the entire island thanks to my dress getting tangled.
Luckily, disaster was averted (thanks to the help of my very own bike mechanic/hero of the hour!), but lesson learned: long dresses and bikes on Gili T? Not a good match.
And that’s not the only reason. If you’re there during the rainy season (or even if it just rains unexpectedly), those gorgeous long dresses will be dragging through mud and puddles in no time. Gili T streets flood pretty easily. Which brings me to rule number eight…
Rule #8: Pack Shoes You Don’t Care About
Seriously, if it rains, your feet will get wet. Unless you’re happy to go barefoot like I did (to save my beautiful Sézane sandals), don’t bring shoes you’ll be heartbroken to see ruined. Stick to something practical and waterproof, or be prepared for wet feet!
Rule #9: A Sarong is (Almost) All You Need
If you could only bring ONE thing to the Gili Islands, make it a sarong. I’m not kidding, this thing is magic. Need a dress? Skirt? Scarf? Beach cover-up? Towel? Sunshade? It’s a huge CHECK for all of them.
A sarong It’s the ultimate multi-purpose item. Bonus points if it’s bright and colorful – it’ll add a pop to all your photos (my sarong made a cameo in pretty much every good picture from my Bali trip!). Just a quick heads-up though: watch out for bike wheels. Just as my beautiful beachy flowy long dress, my sarong and my bike didn’t get along.
Rule #10: Let’s Keep the Coral Reefs and Marine Life Safe
I’m sure one of the biggest draws of the Gili Islands is the chance to swim with turtles, snorkel, and dive into that unbelievable crystal-clear water. But all that beauty needs to be protected from harmful chemicals, and unfortunately, many sunscreens are loaded with them.
That’s why reef-safe sunscreen is an absolute MUST for your Gili trip. But don’t just trust labels that say “reef-safe.” Flip that bottle over and check the ingredients! Make sure your sunscreen uses physical UVA/UVB filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These are much gentler on the marine environment.
Avoid sunscreens containing these chemical filters: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. They might be good for your skin, but they’re not good for the coral.
Check out the brand Coral Safe. They’ve got a great range of truly coral-safe sunscreens on Amazon, with different SPFs and formats to suit everyone.
Rule #11: Mosquito Repellent is a MUST
Whether you’re packing for Bali or the Gili Islands, mosquito repellent is non-negotiable.
Bring a couple of bottles – trust me, one won’t cut it. I know it doesn’t smell like roses, but don’t forget to put it on. Seriously. Indoors, outdoors, at the beach, everywhere. Don’t let those mosquitoes ruin your trip (or your tan!).
This mosquito repellent gets tons of great reviews on Amazon! So you can rest assured you’ll be well-protected from those mosquitoes.
Rule #12: Less is More When It Comes to Makeup and Skincare!
The Gili Islands are the perfect place to embrace your natural beauty. With the humidity, your makeup is going to melt so fast no matter the season, so ditch the heavy foundation and eyeshadow.
Stick to the basics: concealer, bronzer, blush, mascara, and lip gloss (maybe some eyeliner if you’re feeling fancy). My “essentials” might be different from yours, but trust me, with the heat and humidity, you’ll probably wish you weren’t wearing any makeup at all.
Skincare-wise, focus on protection. A good SPF is your best friend, and a shower filter can help protect your skin from the questionable water quality. A gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and your favorite serum are all you really need.
Rule #13: Island Hair, Don’t Care!
Love messy beach waves? The Gili Islands are where perfectly-coiffed hair goes to die (and that’s a good thing!). You’ll spend most of your time in the ocean anyway, and when you’re not, it’s so hot that even thinking about using a hair dryer or straightener feels like a crime (plus, you’ll just end up with the same beachy waves anyway).
A travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and hair oil are all you need. Unless you’ve been backpacking through Southeast Asia for a while – then maybe pack a shower filter, your hair might need some extra protection.
When I’m traveling in Asia, I stick with high-quality hair products, even if it means spending a little extra. Olaplex is my holy grail, and this shampoo, conditioner, and hair oil set is perfect for a Bali (or Gili Islands) trip.
I skipped the shower filter for my 10-day Bali trip (no room in my backpack!), but if you’re spending more time in Southeast Asia, it’s worth considering. I tried one at home in Italy (where the water is supposedly good), and even there, I noticed my hair and skin being shinier and healthier from the first use. This is the shower filter I use and recommend.
Rule #14: Don’t Pack Any Snorkeling Gear
Want to pack lighter? Good news! The east side of Gili T is packed with dive and snorkel shops renting gear, so no need to bring your own. Plus, some hotels and homestays, especially on the north side near the best snorkeling spots, even provide it for free.
Rule #15: Bring Your Reusable Water Bottle
One of my biggest Gili T disappointments was seeing bright red Coke plastic bottles littering those gorgeous white sand beaches. And I saw many of them while walking on beaches. It’s heartbreaking.
So, if you want to be a good human (and who doesn’t?), bring a reusable water bottle. Even reducing plastic use by 1% makes a difference. You can buy big 5L water jugs at the supermarkets and refill your bottle each day, so you don’t have to produce useless plastic.
So there you have it – your Gili Islands packing guide! You don’t need much to soak in the laid-back island vibes and enjoy all its amazing activities.
Don’t forget to save the packing checklist below! And if you’re looking for tips on planning your Gili T adventure, check out this travel guide. I hope this will be useful to plan the most unforgettable trip.
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