Space on a phinisi is real. Cabins are comfortable but compact — think boat cabin, not hotel room. A medium-sized soft bag per person is the right call. Hard-sided suitcases don't fit well in the storage spaces.
Here's what to actually bring for a Komodo liveaboard. This list is based on a 3D2N trip; add a day's worth of clothes per extra day if you're doing a longer itinerary.
Clothing
- Swimwear — bring 2–3 sets. You'll be in the water at least once, often twice a day, and wet gear in a cabin stays wet.
- Lightweight layers — t-shirts and shorts work fine during the day. A light long-sleeve shirt is worth packing for sun protection during island treks.
- Evening layer — one light jacket or hoodie. The boat decks get breezy after dark and air-con cabins run cold.
- Walking shoes — required for the Padar Island and Rinca Island treks. Sandals with grip also work if you're comfortable hiking in them.
- Flip-flops — for moving around the boat.
Sun Protection
This is not optional. The equatorial sun at sea level is intense.
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+) — the park ecosystem matters, and non-reef-safe sunscreen is increasingly monitored by rangers
- Hat with a brim
- Sunglasses
- Rash guard — more effective than sunscreen for long snorkel sessions
Health and Personal Items
- Motion sickness medication if you're susceptible — the crossing from Labuan Bajo to the outer islands can be choppy in wet season
- Personal medications in sufficient quantity for your trip plus a couple of spare days
- Insect repellent for island treks (Rinca and Komodo Island especially at dusk)
- Basic first aid — antihistamine, pain relief, antiseptic wipes, plasters
Gear
- Dry bag — for your phone, camera, and wallet during wet landings and snorkel sessions
- Underwater camera or GoPro — the marine life justifies it
- Power bank — outlets are limited in cabins; charge devices overnight but don't count on multiple daytime charges
- International adapter — Indonesia uses Type C and Type F plugs (European-style)
Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) is provided on our boats. If you have your own mask and prefer the fit, bring it. BYO fins are welcome.
Documents and Money
- Passport (Indonesian immigration occasionally checks on Komodo Island)
- Cash in IDR — tips for crew, small purchases at the ranger stations. ATMs in Labuan Bajo are the last reliable option before departure; there are none in the park.
Don't Bother Bringing
- A big towel — the boat has them
- Full toiletry kits — minimal is fine; biodegradable soap and shampoo are preferred
- Anything you can't afford to lose to saltwater
This komodo packing list covers 3–4 days comfortably. The crew handles everything else.