Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Packing smart will make your journey comfortable and stress-free. Whether you’re heading to beaches, mountains, or cultural sites, this Sri Lanka packing checklist will help you stay ready—without overpacking.

🧳 Essential Clothing

Sri Lanka’s weather is mostly warm and tropical, but it can get cooler in hill areas.
Pack light, breathable clothes, and keep a few modest outfits for cultural visits.

  • 👕 Cotton t-shirts and tops
  • 👖 Comfortable pants or skirts
  • 👚 Light long-sleeved shirts (for sun and mosquitoes)
  • 🧥 Light jacket or hoodie (for the cooler hill country)
  • 🩳 Swimwear for beach or pool
  • 🧣 Scarf or shawl (useful at temples)
  • 👒 Sun hat or cap
  • 🧦 Socks (for temple visits where you remove shoes)

👟 Footwear

  • 👡 Flip-flops or sandals for casual wear
  • 👟 Comfortable walking shoes
  • 🥾 Hiking shoes (optional, if you’re planning on trekking)

🎒 Travel Accessories

  • 🕶️ Sunglasses with UV protection
  • 🧴 Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
  • 🦟 Mosquito repellent (especially in the evenings)
  • ☂️ Compact umbrella or light raincoat (for unexpected showers)
  • 🧢 Reusable water bottle
  • 🧻 Hand sanitizer and tissues

📱 Tech Essentials

  • 🔌 Universal travel adapter (Sri Lanka uses Type D, G, and M plugs)
  • 📱 Smartphone (unlocked, so you can use a local SIM)
  • 📸 Camera or GoPro for beautiful moments
  • 🎧 Headphones or earphones
  • 🔋 Power bank for day trips

📄 Documents & Money

  • 📑 Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • 🛂 ETA/Visa confirmation
  • 💳 Debit/Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted)
  • 💵 Some cash in USD or EUR + Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR)
  • 📱 Copies of your bookings and itinerary
  • 📋 Travel insurance (recommended)

What You Can Easily Buy in Sri Lanka

Don’t worry if you forget something! Many travel essentials are easy to find locally:

  • 👕 Clothes (casual wear, sarongs, scarves, etc.)
  • 🧼 Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen)
  • 🦟 Mosquito repellent sprays and creams
  • 💊 Common medicines (paracetamol, pain relief, motion sickness)
  • 📱 SIM cards and top-up cards
  • 🧴 Skincare and wellness products (including Ayurvedic)
  • 🍵 Herbal teas and snacks
  • 🎁 Souvenirs, handmade crafts, spices, and batik clothing

You can find these at supermarkets, pharmacies, and local markets across the country, especially in cities and tourist areas.

Pack light and leave room for some amazing local souvenirs—from handwoven sarongs to fragrant cinnamon and tea. And if you’re unsure, we at Discover Lanka will guide you on exactly what to bring based on your tour plan!