Pack | Ultimate Packing List for Trekking (Southeast Asia)
Trekking in Southeast Asia doesn’t require you to look cute—it requires you to be smart. Everyone packs differently depending on how sweaty they get, how dirty they’re willing to be, whether there’s a swimming hole nearby, and how comfortable they want to stay. Personally, I wear the same clothes every day when I’m trekking because I don’t want to pack anything extra.
The key is: pack light. Lighter is always better. Most people overpack. Here’s what they forget:
Headlamp – Essential once the sun goes down. Don’t rely on your phone torch.
Base layers – Especially for anything over 2000m altitude. They’re compact and crucial for warmth.
Reusable water bottle – A collapsible one is lighter.
Water filter – Most mountain water is fresh, but be safe.
Second pair of footwear – Flip flops or sandals for camp.
Sun protection – Think: long sleeves, sunscreen, a hat, and something for your lips. Don’t mess with windburn or sunburn at altitude.
What I Actually Packed for a 3D2N Trek up Rinjani (3600masl)
This all fit in a 20L backpack:
Base layers
Oversized sleep shirt
Swimmers
(number of days trekking +1) of undies
An extra pair of socks - doubles up at mittens if you get desperate
Headlamp
Sarong - doubles up at a scarf and skirt
Minimalist toiletries: face soap, moisturiser, toothbrush, toothpaste
Beanie
DIY reusable wet wipes
Rain jacket/poncho
Collapsible water bottle minimum 1L
Earthrunners sandals - for around the campsite and when it rains
Travel pillow (non-negotiable if you’ve got a bad neck)
What I wear on the trail (head to toe):
Bucket hat, easy-access suncream, oversized tee, long-sleeve breathable shirt, baggy pants, knee brace, compression socks, high-top shoes.
A NOTE ON BACKPACKS:
One of the biggest misconceptions about trekking in Southeast Asia is that you need a massive hiking pack. You don’t. Most treks here—whether in Indonesia, Vietnam, or elsewhere—are short and supported. Porters usually carry your tent, sleeping bag, and food. You really only need a small, waterproof daypack (ideally under 20L) with hip straps to help shift the weight off your shoulders. This keeps things light and simple. I always travel with a large duffel that has backpack straps for everything else—because let’s be honest, you’re not hiking between towns anymore; you’re hopping from car to hotel to the next base. A small daypack ensures you don’t overpack and keeps your essentials close, while your main gear stays locked away at the hotel or with the trekking company.
Currently I use Cotopaxi 20L, but once that breaks, I will replace it with the packable Matador Freerain 22L.
