Planning a trip to Labuan Bajo? You’re probably wondering, “What should I bring to Labuan Bajo?” Don’t worry, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to pack to make your trip to Labuan Bajo as fun and comfortable as possible.
Labuan Bajo, a small town located at the western tip of Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara, has become a popular tourist destination, especially for nature lovers. Known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Komodo National Park, which is home to the rare Komodo dragons, Labuan Bajo offers a unique travel experience, especially with a sailing trip on a traditional phinisi boat. However, to fully enjoy your vacation, you need to pack the right things. Let’s dive into the complete guide!
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Why It’s Important to Pack the Right Things
Before heading off on your vacation, it’s important to prepare the right items to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Labuan Bajo is famous for outdoor activities like trekking, snorkeling, and sailing to nearby islands. Places like Komodo National Park are only accessible by boat, whether it’s a one-day trip or a live-on-board experience. So, packing the right essentials will make your journey safer and more comfortable. Here’s a list of the must-bring items for your trip to Labuan Bajo!
Must-Bring Items for Your Labuan Bajo Trip

1. Clothing and Personal Items
- Lightweight Clothes
The weather in Labuan Bajo is tropical and quite hot, so bring lightweight clothes made from cotton or linen. These materials are breathable and perfect for outdoor activities. Cotton will absorb sweat and help you stay cool despite the heat. Don’t forget to bring a few extra outfits, since you’ll be doing lots of outdoor activities. - Swimwear
Labuan Bajo is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning underwater world. If you plan to go snorkeling, swim, or just enjoy the ocean views, make sure to pack swimwear. It’s not just for snorkeling at Komodo Island, but also for enjoying the other nearby beaches. - Comfortable Shoes
It’s really important to pack comfortable trekking shoes or sandals. If you plan on hiking up hills or trekking through the national park, sturdy shoes with a good grip are essential. On the other hand, if you’re relaxing at the beach, comfy sandals will do. The right footwear ensures comfort and protection during your adventures. - Hat and Sunglasses
The sun in Labuan Bajo can be very strong, so make sure to bring a hat to protect your head and sunglasses to shield your eyes from the glare. Sunglasses also help reduce eye strain caused by the intense sunlight. - Light Jacket or Sweater
Even though it’s hot during the day, the temperature can get cooler in the evenings, especially in the mountainous areas or near the harbor. Bring a light jacket or sweater to stay warm during the night. - Casual Clothes for Dinner
After a full day of activities, you might want to go out for a meal or relax in the city. Comfortable casual wear is perfect for these occasions. Choose clothes that are loose and comfortable so you can enjoy your dinner without feeling hot or uncomfortable. - Personal Medications
Don’t forget to bring your personal medications, such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or seasickness medicine if you’re sensitive when sailing. It’s also a good idea to pack allergy meds and digestive medicine for the trip.
Read more: Are Labuan Bajo and Komodo Island the Same? Find Out Here!
2. Gear for Water Activities

- Personal Snorkeling Gear
Labuan Bajo is known for its stunning underwater beauty, so don’t forget to bring your own snorkeling mask, snorkel, and fins for comfort and hygiene. While tour operators usually provide basic gear, having your own equipment is more convenient and hygienic. - Sunscreen
The sun in Labuan Bajo can be intense, so make sure to bring waterproof sunscreen and lip balm with SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while snorkeling or sailing. Choose sunscreen that won’t wash off easily in water, to keep your protection strong. - Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Labuan Bajo offers some of the most beautiful underwater views. If you want to capture those amazing moments underwater, bring a waterproof camera or GoPro. This way, you can take unforgettable photos of the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish.
3. Gear for Outdoor Adventures and Trekking

- Suitable Trekking Shoes
Labuan Bajo has various challenging trekking routes, such as the trails to Padar Island or Kelor Island. Make sure to pack strong, comfortable trekking shoes to ensure your safety and comfort during the hikes. Trekking paths in Labuan Bajo can be rocky and steep, so shoes with good traction are important. - Small Backpack for Day Trips
Pack a small backpack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and small items when you go on day trips or trekking. Choose a backpack that’s big enough to hold your personal items but not too large to get in the way during your hikes. - Reusable Water Bottle
Always bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during outdoor activities. By using a refillable bottle, you’re also helping reduce plastic waste, making it a more eco-friendly choice.
4. Electronics and Gadgets

- Backup Charger and Power Bank
Labuan Bajo still has some areas with limited electricity, especially if you’re sailing on a phinisi boat. Bring a power bank to ensure you can charge your phone or gadgets during the trip. Don’t forget a backup charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day. - Digital Camera or High-Quality Smartphone
Make sure to bring a high-quality camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful sights of Labuan Bajo. Also, bring extra memory cards so you don’t run out of storage for all the amazing photos. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture every fun moment during your trip!
5. Other Important Items
- Passport and ID Cards
If you’re an international traveler, make sure to bring a valid passport. For domestic travelers, your ID card or KTP is also essential. It’s a good idea to also carry a photocopy of your passport or ID card just in case. - Cash
Bring enough cash, as not all places in Labuan Bajo accept credit cards, and many still require cash for purchases. It’s also a good idea to carry small denominations for easier payments at markets or small shops. - Debit or Credit Card
For places that do accept card payments, such as restaurants or stores, make sure your debit or credit card has enough balance. Some places may only accept specific types of cards, so check ahead. - Mosquito Repellent
Given the many open areas in Labuan Bajo, it’s a good idea to pack mosquito repellent to avoid bites. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so make sure to protect yourself with either a spray or lotion to keep them at bay.
Read more: Can You Visit Komodo Island Without a Tour? Find Out Here!
Additional Tips Before Heading to Labuan Bajo
In addition to the must-bring items listed above, here are a few more things you should keep in mind before heading to Labuan Bajo:
- Best Time to Visit
Labuan Bajo can be visited year-round, but the dry season (April to October) is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities without the interference of rain. During the rainy season, some activities like trekking or sailing might be limited. - Maintain Cleanliness and Sustainability
Labuan Bajo is a growing tourist destination, so it’s important to help preserve the natural environment. Bring a trash bag to keep the beaches and nature clean, and always dispose of your waste properly. - Plan Your Trip Well
Make sure to plan your trip properly, including scheduling your visit to Komodo National Park and other beautiful spots around Labuan Bajo. Also, be sure to book accommodations and transportation ahead of time, as some places can get fully booked during peak seasons.
Ready for Your Labuan Bajo Adventure with IndonesiaJuara Trip?
Now you know what to bring for your trip to Labuan Bajo! With the right preparations, your vacation will be even more enjoyable and comfortable. So, are you ready to embark on your Labuan Bajo journey with IndonesiaJuara Trip? Book your Labuan Bajo tour now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
