Travel Tips

Complete Packing List for Sri Lanka

Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, the small island of Sri Lanka offers visitors an experience rich with diversity and adventure. Whether you are visiting the Cultural Triangle, exploring the iconic tea country, embarking on a safari or rejuvenating on the coast, we’ve got all the information you’ll need when considering what to pack for Sri Lanka.

Top Packing Tips

Humidity levels call for waterproof bags and plenty of insect repellent.
Pack for a variety of seasons, Sri Lanka can be sunny one minute and experience a bout of tropical rain the next. While not usually cold, we advise bringing a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Remember, Sri Lanka’s weather patterns can vary depending on where you visit and if you intend to travel to several parts of the country. We suggest you pack for a variety of conditions.
Pack a sarong or pashmina scarf that can be used to cover your chest, shoulders or knees if you intend to visit temples or other sites of cultural significance.

Clothing & Footwear

Safari

Neutral coloured clothing in light breathable fabric like cotton
Long and short-sleeve shirts
Shorts/skirts
Sun hat
Clothing suitable for walking
Light jacket for evenings
Lightweight, waterproof jacket
Trainers and sandals
Swimwear if your lodge has a swimming pool
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals

Beach

Swimwear
Sunhat
Shorts/skirts
Light jacket for evenings
Lightweight, waterproof jacket
Smart/casual outfits for the evening (long trousers and closed shoes for men)
Sandals
Closed shoes

Culture & Nature

Sarong or pashmina for temple visits
Socks for temple visits
Light jacket for evenings
Lightweight, waterproof jacket
Shorts/skirts
Sunhat
Long trousers
Long and short-sleeve shirts in light breathable fabric like cotton
Swimwear if your accommodation has a swimming pool
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Hiking shoes

Expert insight: “When visiting temples throughout the Indian Subcontinent it is necessary to remove one’s footwear. The floor can be very hot so my top tip is to carry a pair or two of dedicated ‘temple socks’ for these occasions.” Joe Parkes, Team Leader