Planning a trip and actually going on it are both a lot of fun. 

But, packing for the trip? Yeah, that’s where we start to lose the plot a little. It can be tough even for the most experienced traveller. Because, finding that sweet spot where you have enough outfits and everything else you need without overpacking or underpacking (and forgetting all those random essentials) is no easy feat.  

And if you are visiting a destination like Sri Lanka, with its rich culture, numerous activities, diverse climates, unpredictable weather and diversity, packing can become a nightmare. 

However, there’s no need to worry because Fernando Travels has got your back. We want to make sure you are properly packed and ready for all the fun and exciting adventures up ahead. That’s why we’ve put together this complete packing list for Sri Lanka. 

1. Travel Essentials 

We all know someone who has forgotten at least one of these travel essentials. So, let’s begin with the basics yet some of the most important things you should definitely have. 

• Passport and all travel documents – visa, travel insurance policy, ID, flight tickets

• A waterproof document pouch

• International driving license, if needed

• Camera, memory cards, chargers or spare batteries (because photo ops are endless in Sri Lanka) 

• Insect and mosquito repellent

• International plug adaptor 

• Power bank

• Cash or credit/debit cards 

• Emergency fund in cash 

• A water bottle with a built-in filter

2. Personal Items 

• First aid kit which includes antihistamines, motion sickness tablets, aspirin/paracetamol, anti-diarrhoea pills, etc. 

• Personal medication or prescriptions 

• Sunscreen

• A good pair of UV-protected sunnies 

• Antibacterial wipes/gel 

• Toiletries 

• Shaving equipment

• Small sewing kit and safety pins

• A waterproof phone cover

3. Clothing and Footwear 

Sri Lanka is a diverse country which offers a wide range of different activities. From religious sites to beaches, mountains and safaris, there’s a lot you can do – and this can make it challenging to decide what to wear in Sri Lanka. 

Here’s a list of general clothing and footwear items you need to pack. This will be followed by a list of items you need to pack for specific locations and activities. 

• A waterproof raincoat to be prepared for the odd shower or two

• A lightweight jacket or a pullover to keep you warm in the cool climes of the hill country

• Light-coloured and lightweight clothing to keep you comfy in the hot and humid climate

• Modest clothing like t-shirts, loose trousers, skirts and dresses – as they are seen as the most respectful way to dress, given Sri Lanka’s religious culture 

• A few fancier outfits 

• A comfy pair of walking shoes 

• Sandals and slippers 

What to Pack for Specific Activities/Locations 

Safari 

• Pants, shorts or athleisure wear 

• A wide-brimmed hat

• Neutral coloured clothing in breathable fabrics like t-shirts/tops or long-sleeved linen/light cotton shirts. Avoid wearing bright colours or camouflaged patterns

• A lightweight, waterproof jacket 

• Comfortable shoes and sandals 

Beach 

Around the beach towns, the vibe is way more relaxed than in cultural areas. So, the attitudes towards clothing are also more relaxed, which is why wearing bikinis and swim trunks is acceptable on the beaches. However, since the local culture tends to lean towards modesty, wearing a cover-up when entering towns can go a long way in showing respect. 

• Swimwear 

• Sunhats 

• Shorts or skirts

• Cover-ups

• Sandals or flip-flops

• Beach bag 

Temples

Temples in Sri Lanka are both places of worship and important cultural ties. Therefore, it is important to dress appropriately and follow the customs when visiting these temples. Here’s what you should pack in order to ensure you are dressed appropriately: 

• Loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen

• Clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing anything that exposes too much skin or make sure you have a scarf or sarong 

• White or light-coloured clothes

• Opt for sandals or flip-flops as your choice of footwear because you must remove your shoes when entering the temples

Mountains 

If you are planning to visit the mountains of Sri Lanka like Nuwara Eliya and Horton Plains, the packing game can be entirely different. Here’s what you should pack: 

• Extra layers of clothing for warmth because the climate can get a little cool 

• A rain jacket or a coat

• Active wear for when you decide to go on a hike or trek

• Shorts or leggings

• Hiking shoes

• Trekking/leech socks 

There you have it – your ultimate guide and tips on what to pack so you’ll be equipped for any activity you choose to do and weather conditions you’ll encounter. 

Want help with planning the perfect trip to Sri Lanka? Our team at Fernando Travels is here to help! From what to pack to where to go, we’ve got you covered.