Packing guide: Borneo

This is a suggested packing guide for travellers to Borneo.

A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this tour. Many tours will include internal flights which often have luggage weight restrictions, and it is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45-50 litres) is another good option.

You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while touring during the day.

If your tour includes a visit to Selingan (Turtle) Island, you'll also need a smaller bag that you can use to carry just your essentials for this one night portion of the tour.  You will need to be able to transport this bag on and off the boat, across sand and along a board-walk once on the island.

 

Clothing:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (moisture-wicking preferred)
  • Long-sleeved shirts and long pants (for mosquito protection)
  • Quick-dry shorts and t-shirts for warm days
  • Waterproof jacket or poncho (essential in the rainforest)
  • Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
  • Sandals or water shoes for boat rides and wet areas
  • Swimsuit and lightweight towel

Accessories

  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap (for sun protection)
  • Sunglasses (preferably polarised)
  • Daypack for hikes and excursions
  • Dry bag (to protect belongings during boat rides)
  • Travel-size umbrella
  • Reusable water bottle (preferably insulated)

Toiletries

  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Insect repellent with DEET or natural alternatives
  • Personal medications and a small first-aid kit
  • Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer

Electronics

  • Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards and batteries
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting