Traveling to surf in Indonesia is an unforgettable experience, but to enjoy it to the fullest, it is essential to bring the right gear. The tropical conditions, sun exposure, reef bottoms, and the remoteness of some spots make certain items indispensable for your comfort, safety, and performance in the water.
In this guide, you will find a
complete and updated checklist with everything you need to pack for your next surf trip to Indonesia, from the essentials to what many forget.
🌊 1. Surf Equipment
This is the heart of your trip. A poorly protected board or a broken leash can ruin more than one session. Make sure to bring the following:
🏄♂️ Surfboards
- 1 versatile board (your main shortboard or daily driver)
- 1 board for tubes or bigger conditions (optional)
- Double or triple board bag with good padding
- Used clothes or suits to protect the board inside the bag
🪝 Essential Accessories
- 2 leashes (one spare)
- 1–2 sets of fins (preferably removable)
- Tropical wax
- Wax comb
- Solarez or other quick repair
- Booties if you are surfing sharp reef
- Basic tool kit (fin key, strong tape, etc.)
Tip: Many remote places do not have surf shops nearby. Bringing spares can save you.
👕 2. Recommended Clothing
The weather in Indonesia is warm and humid almost all year round, but in areas like Mentawai or Sumbawa, rain can appear without warning.
Basics
- Light cotton or breathable material t-shirts
- Shorts
- 1 pair of long pants (useful for travel or areas with mosquitoes)
- Comfortable underwear
- 1 light jacket or sweatshirt for night trips
For the Water
- Lycra or rash guard (sun protection)
- Short wetsuit if you are sensitive to wind (optional)
- Long wetsuit is not necessary, but some use it for protection against the reef
Extra Useful
- Hat, sunglasses, and quick-dry towel
- Water-resistant sandals
- Small backpack for excursions
- Dry bag or waterproof (very useful on boats or during boat transfers)
🧴 3. Personal Care and Health
Humidity, intense sun, and the tropical environment require a basic personal care routine:
- Water-resistant sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Zinc for the face (especially on long sessions)
- Insect repellent
- Moisturizer or aloe vera
- Toothbrush, soap, shampoo, etc.
- Basic first aid kit with disinfectant, bandages, pain relievers, antihistamines
- Wet wipes (useful in areas without immediate showers)
Important: bring your own medications if you need something specific. In some islands, access to pharmacies is limited.
🧾 4. Documentation and Legal Aspects
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Visa (depending on nationality)
- Vaccination cards (in case the airline requests it)
- Travel insurance that covers extreme sports (surfing over reef included)
- Digital copies of your documents (in email or cloud)
Tip: it is also useful to have cash in rupiah and a card with good international support. In remote areas, there are not always ATMs.
🔌 5. Technology and Useful Extras
- Type C plug adapter (220v)
- Chargers and external battery
- Unlocked phone + local SIM card (Telkomsel is usually the most reliable)
- Action camera or GoPro
- Polarized lenses for filming in bright conditions
- Headphones and books for long transfers
- Lock for the bag or backpack
🧠 6. Extra Tips Before You Go
- Make a list before packing and review it the day before
- Weigh your bags and board to avoid surprises at the airport
- Download offline maps and translator if you don't master the language
- Find out about the nearest medical centers to your destination
- If you are going to a surf camp, ask if they provide wax, fins, or tools
✅ Conclusion
A surf trip to Indonesia is an adventure that deserves planning. Bringing the right gear not only enhances your experience but also prepares you to enjoy each session without complications.
Whether you are going to Bali for the first time or venturing to the Mentawai by boat, this list will help you be ready for whatever comes.
🌴
Prepare well, travel light but smart, and focus on what matters most: enjoying the sea. 