Written by Charlotte Lock
Posted, 19th September 2025
This Sri Lanka packing list will make sure you know exactly what to pack for your trip, whether you’re joining a group tour or setting off on your own backpacking adventure.
We’re Sri Lanka experts and have travelled all across the island hundreds of times on our group tours, meaning we know exactly what you should and shouldn’t bring on your travels!
With dense jungle, incredible beaches and bustling towns all ready to explore, alongside intense wet and dry seasons, it can sometimes be hard to plan exactly what to take to Sri Lanka.
Regardless of whether you are a budget backpacker or are joining a slightly more extravagant group tour, this Sri Lanka packing list will help guide you on what to stow in your bag and what’s not really necessary.
What To Pack For Sri Lanka
While many travellers may try to pack everything but the kitchen sink, there really isn’t much need to overpack for a trip to Sri Lanka.
In fact, if you’re smart about it, you may get away with packing less for a month-long stay than a 2-week all-inclusive in Spain!
Some of the key things to consider when packing for your trip to Sri Lanka are the hot and sunny climate (or the mild and wet one if travelling in the monsoon seasons), your activity style and your accommodation type.
Whether you choose a backpack or a suitcase is up to you, but we’d personally recommend a backpack as they’re not as much of a hassle to get on and off transport or to get through busy streets.
We’ve compiled an epic list of all the things you need to pack for your trip to Sri Lanka:
Sri Lanka Travel Docs
Before you get carried away with planning outfits and gadgets, the first thing to sort is your paperwork; without it, your trip won’t happen!
Passport and driving licence: your passport is the key to entering Sri Lanka, so make sure it’s valid for at least six months after your travel dates. If you’re planning to hire a scooter or car during your trip, you’ll also want to bring your driving licence. You should also check if an International Driving Permit is required for your nationality.
Prepaid travel or bank card: carrying huge wads of cash isn’t the safest move, so a prepaid travel card is a smarter option. These often give you better exchange rates when withdrawing money and make it easier to stick to a budget. Do remember, though, cash is still king in rural areas, markets, and smaller shops, so don’t rely on cards alone.
Travel insurance certificate: you hope you’ll never have to use it, but travel insurance is a must in Sri Lanka. Whether it’s for medical emergencies, stolen items, or cancelled plans, it’s worth having. Keep a copy of your insurance details somewhere easy to access, just in case.
Flight e-tickets: save your flight confirmations and boarding passes to your phone for smooth airport check-ins. Having them handy means you can get through gates and security without rummaging around for emails or papers.
Visa (ETA): most travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka. It’s quick to apply online, but don’t leave it to the last minute because without it, you won’t be allowed in!
Printed copies: while having everything on your phone is convenient, it’s always wise to keep printed backups of your key documents. If your battery dies or you can’t get a good WiFi or data signal, having paper copies can save a lot of stress.
Toiletries For Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, strong sun, and pesky mosquitoes mean your toiletry bag deserves a little extra thought. Pack the basics, but don’t stress too much, as most things are easy to find locally if you run out.
Here are the essentials you’ll need:
Aftersun cream or aloe vera gel: the Sri Lankan sun is intense, and even with suncream, you might end up a little pink. A soothing gel will be a lifesaver if you do get caught out.
Toothbrush and toothpaste: sounds obvious, but they’re surprisingly easy to forget when you’re rushing to pack.
Bug spray and bite relief: mosquitoes are common in Sri Lanka, especially in the evenings, around lakes, and in more rural areas. A strong repellent is essential, and having a bite relief cream tucked away will make life much more comfortable if you get bitten.
Haircare products: the humidity, salty sea air, and frequent dips in the ocean can leave your hair feeling a bit frazzled. A good quality shampoo and conditioner are worth it, or, if you want to save space, opt for a travel-friendly shampoo bar.
Tampons, pads, or menstrual cups: menstrual products can be difficult to find in Sri Lanka, especially outside of major cities, so it’s best to bring what you’ll need. A menstrual cup can be a practical and space-saving choice, although it can be trickier to keep clean on the go.
Deodorant: with Sri Lanka’s heat and humidity, this one’s non-negotiable! You’ll be glad to have it after a long day of sightseeing or travel. If you want to go for the eco-friendly option, you can get aluminium-free deodorant.
Hand sanitiser: Perfect for street food stops, bus journeys, and anywhere sinks and soap aren’t within reach. Staying hygienic on the go makes travelling much easier (and healthier).
Razor and shaving cream: Not essential for everyone, but if you prefer to shave, bring your own. Options in Sri Lanka are limited and can be pricier than you’d expect.
Clothing For Sri Lanka
You’ll need to think carefully about your clothing for Sri Lanka to keep cool, comfortable, and prepared for a variety of adventures.
The climate is hot and humid all year round, so lightweight, breathable fabrics will be your best friend. At the same time, you’ll want to think about all of your planned activities from beach days on the south coast to temple visits, safari trips, and long travel days.
Casual lightweight clothes: stick to fabrics like cotton, linen, or quick-dry materials. They’ll keep you cool in the hot, sticky weather, dry fast if you get caught in a rain shower, and are easy to wash on the go.
Temple wear: the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, the Dambulla Cave Temples, and all of Sri Lanka’s other incredible temples require you to wear modest clothing. Pack at least one outfit that covers shoulders and knees, a pair of long trousers or a maxi skirt with a loose shirt works perfectly.
Shorts and T-shirts/vests: perfect for sightseeing, exploring markets, or relaxed days by the beach.
Trainers: sturdy trainers are a must for travelling in Sri Lanka. When hiking Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak, you’ll be glad for a bit of extra support – flip-flops are not going to cut it while trekking!
Casual dresses or skirts: a loose, flowy dress or skirt is great for evenings out, dinners, or simply when you want something easy but put-together. Maxi or midi lengths also work well for temple visits if they cover your knees and shoulders.
Comfy sleepwear: guesthouses and hotels often have strong air-con, so lightweight but cosy sleepwear is useful. Thin PJ sets or shorts and T-shirts are normally your best bet and mean you’re well covered if you’re too warm to sleep under a blanket.
Flip-flops or sandals: easy slip-ons are perfect for the beach and taking off at temples or guesthouses. They’re also handy for showers in budget accommodation.
Swimsuit or bikini: with endless beaches, hotel pools, and snorkelling spots, swimwear is a must. Packing a couple of extra sets means you’ll always have a dry set ready.
Activewear: a set of breathable leggings, shorts, or tops is useful for hiking in the hill country, joining a fitness class, or even just for comfortable travel days.
Light rain jacket or poncho: sudden tropical downpours are common, especially during monsoon season. A packable raincoat or poncho will save you from getting soaked and is more eco-friendly than the disposable bin-bag-like ponchos.
A light jumper or long-sleeved layer: even in Sri Lanka’s heat, you’ll be glad of a warm layer on chilly train rides or overly air-conditioned buses and cafés.
Underwear and socks: you should bring enough underwear for about a week, since laundry is cheap and easy to do, but it’s always good to have backups. That being said, it’s always good to bring more underwear than you think you’ll need – a lot of days in Sri Lanka you’ll want to change pairs after a hike, for example!
Travel Essentials For Sri Lanka
While your clothing is very important, there are a number of other items you’ll be glad to have in your bag and will make your trip so much more comfortable. Here are some travel essentials you need to pack for Sri Lanka:
A good quality backpack or suitcase: a backpack is best if you’re moving around a lot while travelling in Sri Lanka and is a lot less awkward to navigate through busy areas than a suitcase. However, if you’re travelling in private transport or are sticking to just a few locations, then a suitcase can also work.
Packing cubes: packing cubes help keep everything organised in your bag, allowing you to save space and prevent having to dig through every item to find something. They’re also great for separating clean and dirty laundry.
Small day/overnight bag: a smaller bag is perfect for packing your essentials into for day trips to temples, hikes through the tea country, or overnight safaris in Yala National Park. It will also save you from lugging your main luggage around for short excursions.
Insulated reusable water bottle: staying hydrated in Sri Lanka’s heat is an absolute must, and an insulated bottle keeps your water cool all day. It also reduces plastic waste since single-use bottles are common but not eco-friendly!
Hat and sunglasses: the Sri Lankan sun is strong year-round, so a good hat and decent sunglasses are essential. While they might not be the most fashionable, they’ll protect you from sunburn and heat exhaustion during long days outside.
Quick-dry beach towel: quick-dry towels are perfect for beach days on the south coast in Mirissa or spontaneous swims after hiking to waterfalls like Ramboda or Diyaluma. They’re lightweight, dry fast in humid weather, and won’t take up much space in your bag.
Combination lock: a small lock is very important for keeping your belongings secure in hostel lockers or guesthouses. It’s also useful for locking your valuables in your bag during long train or bus rides.
Earplugs and eye mask: Sri Lanka can be noisy, with wildlife, crowds and traffic all competing to keep you awake at night. Earplugs and an eye mask will make sure you still get a proper night’s rest.
Dry bag: a dry bag is brilliant for keeping electronics, clothes, and travel documents safe during sudden rain showers. It’s equally handy for preventing water damage during boat trips, snorkelling excursions and at the beach.
Power adapter: Sri Lanka mainly uses plug types D, G, and M, so a universal adapter will cover all situations. Having one means you’ll never be caught short when charging your devices!
Power bank and headphones: a power bank is essential for keeping your phone or tablet well-charged on long train journeys where electric ports aren’t guaranteed. Pair it with headphones or Airpods, and you’ll be set for hours of scenic travel with non-stop music, TV shows, podcasts, or audiobooks!
Basic first aid kit: a simple kit with plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and rehydration salts can save you a lot of hassle while travelling in Sri Lanka. Pharmacies are common and well-stocked, but it’s reassuring to have the basics with you.
Backpack rain cover: sudden tropical downpours are pretty common in Sri Lanka, especially during monsoon seasons. A backpack cover will protect your gear and keep your belongings safe from unexpected rainfall!
Extras
Travel journal: a travel journal is a great way to capture memories of your travels, from favourite restaurants to train journeys, especially if you’re solo travelling. It also helps track your route and makes a lovely keepsake to look back on later.
Airtag: an Airtag can be a lifesaver if your luggage goes missing. It gives peace of mind when travelling through busy airports and can help make a lost bag situation a lot less stressful.
Yogawear: Sri Lanka is packed with amazing yoga studios and classes are very popular among travellers. Having a comfy yoga set in your bag is a good shout if you think you’re likely to take advantage of the great classes on offer.
Laundry bag: a laundry bag is a small thing that makes a big difference. It keeps dirty clothes separate and easy to grab and helps your clean clothes stay fresh.
Surf/sporty swimsuit: the surf culture in Sri Lanka is on a whole other level, with some world-class breaks on offer regardless of your skill level. Having a surf swimsuit or a sporty swimsuit is a good extra to have in your bag to help keep you comfy and protected while surfing. Unfortunately, bikinis don’t often cut it on a surfboard!
Things Not To Bring To Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka isn’t completely off the beaten track and there are plenty of items you can pick up while you’re there to avoid bursting the seams of your bag. Many items are also cheaper in Sri Lanka than back at home!
Beach sarong: sarongs are sold everywhere in Sri Lanka, especially along the coast. They make a great souvenir and are often more colourful and affordable locally. They can also double as temple attire too, which is handy!
Hairdryer: hairdryers are often provided in local accommodation, so you’re better leaving yours at home. If you are set on bringing it then make sure to check the label, as you could blow a fuse if your dryer isn’t the correct voltage.
General toiletries: things like shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste are easy to find in Sri Lankan shops. Only bring specialist items that you prefer; otherwise, buy the basics when you arrive.
Umbrella: with the monsoon rains, umbrellas are available almost everywhere. Save the luggage space and buy one if you need it!
Portable fan: small fans often don’t do the trick when the heat is at its peak in Sri Lanka. Most accommodation has ceiling fans or air-con, and handheld fans are sold locally if you really want one.
Books or heavy guidebooks: Sri Lanka has plenty of bookshops and second-hand shops for picking up your next best read. A Kindle or downloaded travel guide is lighter and more practical for travelling!
Too many clothes: laundrettes are cheap and easy to find across the country. Packing light means you’ll have space for souvenirs to bring home.
How To Pack For Sri Lanka
Packing for Sri Lanka is all about balancing practical items with comfort. Sri Lanka has a warm, humid climate, tropical rainy seasons and lots of different landscapes to tackle, meaning you’ll have to pack wisely to cover all bases.
Regardless of if you’re backpacking or joining a group tour in Sri Lanka, keeping your luggage lightweight and well-organised really goes a long way and keeping your spirits high. Trust us, no one wants to be trekking through Kandy with a 50 kg backpack!
You’ll want to pack plenty of layers and travel-sized alternatives to make the most of the space in your bag. And with laundry being so cheap and easy to do, you can easily rewear outfits.
Using packing cubes can help keep you organised, along with packing all of your essentials into your smaller day bag so that it’s ready to grab and go.
Sri Lanka Packing Tips
Packing for Sri Lanka is less about packing everything and more about being smart with what you choose to bring. Here are a few packing tips to help you get it right:
- Pack with temple visits in mind: many of Sri Lanka’s highlights are cultural, and you’ll need clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter. Lightweight long trousers, skirts, and a scarf are practical options.
- Prepare for long journeys: Sri Lanka’s scenic train rides are unforgettable, but they can also be crowded and a bit overwhelming. Keeping a small day bag ready with water, snacks, gadgets, and chargers will save you digging through your main luggage and keep everything you need within easy reach.
- Think about both coasts: Sri Lanka’s monsoon seasons mean that weather varies greatly across the island. Make sure to research the weather in each location you’re visiting for the time period you’re travelling. A rain jacket may be essential in one area while it’s wall-to-wall sunshine in the other.
- Choose a backpack over a suitcase: many roads and train stations aren’t suitcase-friendly. A backpack makes moving around much smoother, especially if you’re hopping between towns like Galle, Kandy, and Ella.
- Leave space in your bag: Sri Lanka is full of amazing markets selling clothing, spices, souvenirs and so much more. Packing light means you’ll have room to bring back a few treasures.
What To Pack For Sri Lanka’s Rainy Season
If you’re touching down on one of Sri Lanka’s coasts during the regional monsoon season then your packing list will need some extra thought to keep you dry and comfortable.
The southwest monsoon being heavy rain to the coast between May and August, while the northeast monsoon falls between October and January.
A lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho is a must, look especially for something you can fold away when the skies clear and doesn’t take up too much room.
A backpack rain cover and a small dry bag are worth bringing to protect valuables like cameras, phones, and printed travel documents. Footwear matters too; sturdy sandals or quick-dry trainers are much more practical than heavy shoes that take forever to dry.
Humidity is high, so stick to breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that dry quickly after a sudden shower. Don’t forget insect repellent either, as mosquitos tend to be more active after rain. With the right gear, you can still explore comfortably, just think layers, quick-dry fabrics, and waterproof protection for your belongings!
What To Pack For Sri Lanka’s Dry Season
Travelling in the dry season means more sunshine, higher temperatures, and longer days outdoors, so your packing list should be geared toward staying cool and protected from the strong UV rays.
Lightweight, breathable clothing is your best friend when travelling to Sri Lanka in the dry season, with loose cotton or linen shirts, shorts, and flowy dresses keeping you comfortable in the heat.
Some things you’ll definitely want to have in an easy-to-grab place are sunglasses, high SPF suncream and a hat. A reusable water bottle is also a great way of encouraging yourself to stay hydrated.
The dry season offers the perfect opportunity for spending long days at the beach and surfing so make sure to pack some cute swimwear and a quick-dry towel too!
FAQs
Below are some common questions related to packing for a trip to Sri Lanka, along with our expert answers to each question.
Illegal drugs, explosives and firearms are a no-no in Sri Lanka (like most countries). You also have to declare any foreign animal products and plants at customs, along with any currency in cash that is in excess of $15,000 USD.
Sri Lanka mainly uses Type D, G, and M sockets. A universal travel adapter which fits several socket types is recommended to ensure all your devices can be charged safely.
Yes, phones can be brought and used in Sri Lanka. Make sure your phone is unlocked though so that you can get access to other data providers and consider buying a local SIM card or e-SIM.
Sri Lanka operates on 230V. Most electronics can handle this, but make sure to check your devices before travelling; a voltage converter may be needed for items that aren’t compatible.
Conclusion
That’s it – a complete Sri Lanka packing list to take the stress out of getting ready for your trip!
The golden rule is simple: don’t overpack. Laundry services are affordable and easy to find across the island, and local shops and markets stock almost everything you might forget!
Choose practical, lightweight clothing that you can mix and match, stick to quick-dry fabrics, and keep toiletries and gadgets to a minimum. The lighter your bag, the easier your journey will be.
Follow our tips, pack smart, and you’ll be perfectly set for an unforgettable adventure in Sri Lanka!
Whether you’re looking to travel solo or bring a friend along for the ride, our group tours in South East Asia & Australia are the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time & nightlife. You’ll arrive as strangers and leave as the best of friends.
Here are a few useful links to help with that planning;
👉🏼 View all Trips
👉🏼 Frequently Asked Questions
👉🏼 Check out our Reviews
👉🏼 Why choose us?
👉🏼 How does it all work?
If you’ve got any burning questions or just need a little travel inspo… jump in the DM’s with the team via either Whatsapp, Livechat or Instagram.
