Packing for The Gili Islands: 15 Best Tips You Should Know

Last Updated on November 5, 2025

Planning a trip to the Gili Islands and wondering what to pack? The first rule, of course, is to pack light — but there are a few other things you should know before your trip.

In this post, I’m sharing the wisdom learned the hard way about packing for the Gili Islands: what to bring, what you won’t need, and a few things to keep in mind before departure.

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Tip 1: Use your carry-on backpack only

Dragging my 20kg backpack from the Gili T harbor to my 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.

Everything you need will easily fit into a 30L carry-on backpack. You can leave your big bag in luggage storage at Padang Bai (the harbor you’ll likely depart from in Bali).

Pack your essentials in your carry-on before leaving Bali, leave the rest in storage, and pick it up when you return. On the Gili Islands, there are no cars or scooters. You’ll be walking, cycling (on terrifying, rickety bikes).

A small backpack is much easier to manage than a suitcase, especially if your accommodation is a bit further inland.

Tip 2: Pack Light

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. 

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!

Tip 3: Don’t Forget Your Dry Bag

A dry bag is a lifesaver, especially during snorkeling trips or other water activities. 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. It’s surprisingly large but still folds down small enough to fit into your carry-on when you don’t need it.

Tip 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! 

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!

Tip 5: Embrace the Flip-Flops

Leave those sneakers at home!

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.

Tip 6: Consider Packing Water 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, you might want to consider them here.

These water shoes are comfortable, and a huge plus is that they dry super fast —a lifesaver in humid weather. They also keep the sand out!

Tip 7: No Long Dresses (If You’re Cycling)

Not once, but twice I almost ended up flashing the entire island thanks to my dress getting tangled in my bycicle.

Luckily, disaster was averted, 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.

Tip 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, don’t bring shoes; you’ll be heartbroken to see them ruined. Stick to something practical and waterproof, or be prepared for wet feet!

Tip 9: A Sarong is (Almost) All You Need

If you could only bring ONE thing to the Gili Islands, make it a sarong.

A sarong is the ultimate multi-purpose item. Bonus points if it’s bright and colorful—it’ll add a pop to all your photos. 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.

Tip 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.

Tip 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; 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.

This mosquito repellent gets tons of great reviews on Amazon! So you can rest assured you’ll be well-protected from those mosquitoes.

Tip 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 questionable water quality. A gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and your favorite serum are all you really need. 

Tip 13: Island Hair, Don’t Care! 

Around the Gilis, you’ll spend most of your time in the ocean, and when you’re not, it’s so hot that even thinking about using a hair dryer or straightener feels like a crime.

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. 

Tip 14: Don’t Pack Any Snorkeling Gear

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. 

Tip 15: Bring Your Reusable Water Bottle

One of my biggest Gili T disappointments was seeing bright red Coke 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 — hopefully, these tips made packing for the Gili Islands a little easier (and lighter!).

If you’re still planning your Gili Islands escape, make sure to check out my Gili Islands Travel Guide — it covers everything you need to know before your trip and my favorite things to do on the islands. And if you’re looking for itinerary inspiration, here’s my 3-Day Gili Islands Itinerary to help you make the most of your stay.

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest. If you have any questions about traveling to the Gili Islands or Bali in general, drop them in the comments — I’m always happy to help!

Other Gili Islands Articles You May Find Useful

• Gili Islands Snorkeling: The 5 Best Spots and Tours to See The Turtles (2025 Guide)
• Nusa Islands Vs Gili Islands: What’s the Best Island Escape for You?

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