Joanna James
Heading to a tropical paradise like Sri Lanka promises to be an enjoyable experience. From jungles to beaches, the island has plenty of great attractions. However, for the best experience, you should make sure to pack smart. Consider various factors, whether it’s the climate, culture, or activities. Here are some tips to help you pack for a stress-free vacation in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is known for its warm and humid climate. This means that wearing light cotton clothing or linen is the best bet. You can pack loose shirts, dresses, and trousers which are ideal for sightseeing and walking. If you’re planning to visit cooler hill country areas like Nuwara Eliya or Ella, take a light sweater or jacket as the evenings can be chilly.
Sri Lanka is a highly religious country that is full of Buddhist shrines and temples. Visitors should remember to dress modestly when travelling to these sites. For women, covering the knees and shoulders is a must. Men should avoid wearing shorts. A shawl or a scarf is handy if you want to cover up in a rush, and a pair of long trousers or a modest skirt is appropriate.
The sun tends to be quite strong, especially in the coastal areas. Due to this, remember to pack a high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to wear when you spend time outside hotel chains in Sri Lanka. If you want to go hiking, explore ancient ruins, or spend the day at the beach, these will help prevent sunburn.
With so much to explore, from temples to forest trails or sandy beaches at Aitken Spence Hotels, taking a pair of good shoes is a must. Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are best when it comes to walking and hiking, while light sandals will be perfect for casual nights out. Flip-flops are useful for the beach but aren't suitable for long walks.
Mosquitoes are common in many parts of Sri Lanka, especially in the evenings in rural areas. To keep them at bay, pack a good insect repellent. While some hotels and inns have A/c if you’re staying in a budget guesthouse, carrying a mosquito net is a good idea. It’s also a good idea to have a small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic cream, and basic medication for headaches or stomach upsets.
Sri Lanka uses a few different plug types (mainly D and G). So you'll need a universal travel adapter to charge your gadgets. A power bank will also come in handy when you go on long train journeys, safaris, or treks where there are no charging points.
Sri Lanka is a beach lover's paradise, with plenty of wonderful coastal towns and water activities. Some of these include surfing in Arugam Bay, snorkelling in Hikkaduwa, or whale watching in Mirissa. So, when you’re packing, don’t forget to take your swim suit! Also pack a quick-drying towel, flip-flops, and a waterproof backpack to make beach-hopping that much easier.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
