What to Pack for Staying in Remote Places in Indonesia

6 Degrees budget backpacker hostel in central Sulawesi

Travelling to remote parts of Indonesia—whether it’s a tiny island, a forest village, or an eco-lodge tucked between the hills and the sea—offers a peaceful escape from the usual tourist trail. But with that comes a bit of preparation. You might be far from shops, signal, or even steady electricity.

This guide is designed to help you pack smart and light, so whether you’re heading to Sulawesi’s coast, a highland hideaway, or an Off-Grid lodge like Six Degrees Off Grid, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.

The Essentials: Comfort and Practicality

These are your must-haves—practical gear that makes all the difference in remote corners of Indonesia.

Torch or headlamp – Ideal for areas with limited lighting or night-time power cuts.
Power bank – Keeps your phone or camera charged when electricity is solar-powered or shared.
Quick-dry towel – Lightweight, easy to carry, and dries quickly in humid areas.
Small daypack – For walks to the beach, waterfall hikes, or village visits.
Mosquito repellent – A must in tropical regions. Natural, DEET-free options are often lodge-friendly.
Basic first aid kit – Painkillers, plasters, antiseptic, and rehydration salts go a long way.
Reusable water bottle – Most eco-lodges in Sulawesi and beyond offer water refills to help reduce plastic waste.
Snacks or comfort food – When there’s no warung (local café) nearby, you’ll be glad you brought something small.
Download a translator app – Internet signal can be weak in remote spots, so downloading Google Translate (or a similar app) ahead of time can be super helpful when communicating with locals.

Hygiene and Personal Care (With a Conscience)

Staying clean and fresh, while being kind to the environment, is a key part of the off-grid lifestyle.

Biodegradable soap and shampoo – Especially important when washing near rivers or using greywater systems.
Toilet paper or tissues – Some places may not provide any—or charge for it.
Hand sanitiser – Especially useful if water is scarce or you’re on the move.
Menstrual products – Stock up before you leave urban areas. Reusables are great for travel.
Flip-flops or sandals – Good for everything from showers to sandy beach strolls.

Clothing: Versatile and Light

In Indonesia, weather can swing from sweltering heat to sudden rain showers, depending on where you are.

Lightweight long sleeves and trousers – Great for sun protection, modesty, and mosquito defence.
Sarong or scarf – Useful for temples, beach time, or cool evenings.
Rain jacket or poncho – A lifesaver in the wet season or highlands.
Swimwear – You never know when you’ll find a perfect reef or waterfall.
Sun hat and sunglasses – The tropical sun can be strong, especially in coastal or island areas.

Staying Connected (Or Not)

Remote travel in Sulawesi and other parts of the archipelago often means being offline—and that’s part of the beauty. But a little digital prep goes a long way.

Offline maps – Use Google Maps or Maps.me to download routes before you go off the grid.
Books, music, podcasts – Load up your device before your journey. Streaming usually isn’t an option.
Local SIM card – Telkomsel tends to have the best coverage in rural areas.
Travel journal – The best travel memories often come when you’re unplugged.

Extras to Make Life Even Better

Not essential, but they’ll definitely improve your stay at a remote lodge or guesthouse.

Travel hammock – For lazy beach afternoons or shady forest naps.
Snorkel and mask – Especially useful in reef-rich areas like Towale Atoll in Central Sulawesi.
Small dry bag – Keeps gear safe on boat rides or during sudden downpours.
Playing cards or small games – Brilliant for social evenings at a longhouse or guesthouse.

Luggage Tips: Keep It Simple