Visit Malaysia 2026

Malaysia in 2026 offers an exceptional travel experience with a packed calendar of festivals, sporting events, and cultural celebrations. The country continues its tourism renaissance with improved infrastructure, new attractions, and competitive exchange rates making it one of Asia's best-value destinations.

2026 Highlights

• Year of the Horse Chinese New Year celebrations (February 17-March 3)
• F1 Malaysian Grand Prix returns to Sepang (April 3-5)
• Visit Malaysia Year special promotions and events nationwide
• New MRT lines making Kuala Lumpur more accessible than ever
• Merdeka 118 - World's second tallest building fully operational

Why Malaysia Stands Out

Malaysia offers unmatched diversity: pristine beaches in Langkawi and Perhentian, UNESCO heritage in George Town and Melaka, world-class food everywhere, modern cities, ancient rainforests, and genuine multicultural harmony. English is widely spoken, infrastructure is excellent, and your money goes far.

Tourism Statistics

• Target: 30+ million tourists in 2026
• Average spend: RM4,500 per tourist
• Top source markets: Singapore, Indonesia, China, India, Thailand
• Visa-free access for 160+ countries

Peak Season (December-February)

Best weather on west coast. Chinese New Year (Feb 17) brings festive atmosphere but higher prices and crowds. Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead for CNY period.

Shoulder Season (March-April, September-October)

Excellent balance of weather, prices, and crowds. Hari Raya (March 20) offers cultural immersion. September-October ideal for east coast before monsoon.

Budget Season (May-August)

Lower prices, fewer tourists. Occasional rain but rarely all-day. Merdeka celebrations (Aug 31) and Malaysia Day (Sep 16) offer patriotic festivities.

Monsoon Considerations

• East Coast (Terengganu, Kelantan, Pahang coast): Avoid November-February
• West Coast: Light rain year-round, rarely disruptive
• Sabah/Sarawak: April-October best, but accessible year-round

2026 Specific Recommendations

• Best overall: February 17-March 3 (CNY + Ramadan overlap creates unique atmosphere)
• Best for deals: August 15-September 16 (Merdeka Sale Season)
• Best for sports fans: April 3-5 (F1 Malaysian Grand Prix)
• Best for culture: October 8 (Deepavali) or any major festival period

January 2026

• Jan 1: New Year's Day (Public Holiday) - Mall sales up to 70% off
• Jan 31: Thaipusam - Hindu festival, spectacular at Batu Caves

February 2026

• Feb 1: Federal Territory Day (KL, Putrajaya, Labuan)
• Feb 14: Valentine's Day - Couple promotions everywhere
• Feb 17-Mar 3: Chinese New Year (Year of the Horse) - Malaysia's biggest celebration
• Feb 18-Mar 19: Ramadan - Bazaar Ramadan food paradise

March 2026

• Mar 20-21: Hari Raya Aidilfitri - End of Ramadan, open houses, major sales

April 2026

• Apr 3-5: F1 Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang - Book hotels early!

May 2026

• May 1: Labour Day + Wesak Day - Double holiday
• May 27: Hari Raya Haji

June 2026

• Jun 1: Agong's Birthday + Gawai Dayak (Sarawak)
• Jun 17: Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year)

July 2026

• Jul 1-31: George Town Festival - Arts & culture in UNESCO heritage site

August 2026

• Aug 15-Sep 16: Merdeka Sale Season - Best shopping deals
• Aug 26: Maulidur Rasul
• Aug 31: Merdeka Day - Independence celebrations

September 2026

• Sep 16: Malaysia Day - Formation of Malaysia

October 2026

• Oct 8: Deepavali - Festival of Lights

November 2026

• Nov 11: 11.11 Singles Day - Biggest online shopping day
• Nov 27: Black Friday sales

December 2026

• Dec 12: 12.12 Sale
• Dec 25: Christmas
• Dec 26-31: Year-End Clearance - Up to 80% off

Kuala Lumpur

The capital dazzles with Merdeka 118 (world's second tallest building), Petronas Twin Towers, and endless shopping. New MRT lines make exploration effortless. Don't miss: Jalan Alor food street, Batu Caves, Islamic Arts Museum.

Penang

UNESCO George Town offers the world's best street food (CNN-ranked), stunning heritage architecture, and vibrant street art. Best for: Food lovers, culture seekers, photographers.

Langkawi

Duty-free island paradise with pristine beaches, mangrove tours, and the iconic Sky Bridge. Best for: Beach holidays, couples, duty-free shopping.

Melaka

UNESCO heritage city with Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial history. Famous for: Jonker Street night market, Peranakan culture, river cruise.

Sabah

Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia's highest peak), orangutan sanctuaries, world-class diving at Sipadan. Best for: Adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, divers.

Sarawak

Borneo's largest state offers longhouse stays, Kuching's cat statues, and Mulu's spectacular caves. Best for: Cultural immersion, nature lovers.

Cameron Highlands

Cool hill station with tea plantations, strawberry farms, and British colonial charm. Best for: Escaping the heat, tea lovers, families.

Perhentian Islands

Crystal-clear waters, affordable diving, sea turtles. Best for: Budget beach holidays, snorkeling, diving (March-October only).

3-Day Express (KL Only)

Day 1: Petronas Twin Towers (morning tickets), KLCC Park, Suria KLCC shopping, Jalan Alor dinner

Day 2: Batu Caves (early morning), Chinatown/Petaling Street, Central Market, Merdeka Square, Bukit Bintang evening

Day 3: Islamic Arts Museum, National Mosque, KL Tower, Pavilion KL shopping, departure

5-Day Classic (KL + Melaka)

Days 1-3: KL itinerary above

Day 4: Bus to Melaka (2 hours), check in, Jonker Street walk, river cruise, Peranakan dinner

Day 5: A Famosa fort, Dutch Square, Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, return to KL

7-Day Highlights (KL + Penang + Langkawi)

Days 1-2: KL highlights

Day 3: Fly to Penang, George Town street art walk, Armenian Street, evening at Gurney Drive hawkers

Day 4: Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Road famous cendol, night market

Day 5: Fly to Langkawi, Pantai Cenang beach, duty-free shopping

Day 6: Sky Bridge & Cable Car, mangrove tour, sunset at Tanjung Rhu

Day 7: Island hopping, return flight

10-Day Adventure (West + East Malaysia)

Days 1-3: KL and surroundings

Days 4-5: Penang food and culture

Days 6-7: Fly to Kota Kinabalu, city tour, island hopping, sunset at Signal Hill

Days 8-9: Mount Kinabalu day trip or Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Springs

Day 10: Mari Mari Cultural Village, return flight

14-Day Ultimate Malaysia

Days 1-3: KL comprehensive

Days 4-5: Melaka heritage

Days 6-7: Penang food paradise

Days 8-9: Cameron Highlands tea plantations

Days 10-11: Langkawi beaches

Days 12-14: Sabah adventure (KK, Kinabalu, islands)

Budget Backpacker Route (21 Days)

KL (3) → Melaka (2) → Singapore day trip → JB (1) → Perhentian Islands (4) → Penang (3) → Langkawi (3) → Cameron Highlands (2) → KL (2) → Home

Pro tip: Book internal flights 2-3 weeks ahead on AirAsia for best prices. Tuesday releases often have flash sales.

Getting to Malaysia

By Air

• KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport): Main hub, 60km from city center. KLIA Ekspres train (28 min, RM55) or bus (1 hour, RM12)
• KLIA2: Budget terminal (AirAsia hub). Same transport options, slightly longer travel time
• Penang International Airport: Direct flights from regional cities. 20 min to George Town
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport: Gateway to Sabah. 10 min to city center
• Kuching International Airport: Gateway to Sarawak. 15 min to city center

By Land

• From Singapore: Buses from Queen Street/Golden Mile. JB Sentral (1 hour) or direct to KL (5 hours)
• From Thailand: Trains from Bangkok via Hat Yai to Padang Besar, then KTM to KL
• Border crossings: Johor-Singapore (busiest), Padang Besar (Thailand), Bukit Kayu Hitam (Thailand)

Getting Around Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur Public Transport

• MRT: Newest and most extensive. Covers Kajang-Sungai Buloh, Putrajaya lines. RM1.20-6.40
• LRT: Kelana Jaya and Ampang lines. Good for central KL. RM1.20-4.80
• Monorail: Bukit Bintang to KL Sentral. Tourist areas. RM1.20-3.80
• KTM Komuter: Suburban trains. Good for Batu Caves, Klang
• Touch 'n Go card: Essential for all public transport. Buy at stations (RM10 + credit)

Intercity Travel

• Flights: AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Batik Air. Book 2-3 weeks ahead
• Buses: Comfortable, cheap, extensive network. Book via Easybook, BusOnlineTicket
• Trains: KTM ETS (KL-Penang-Padang Besar). Scenic but slower than flights
• Car rental: From RM80/day. International license accepted. Drive on left

Ride-Hailing

• Grab: Dominant app. Cars, bikes, food delivery. Link international cards
• AirAsia Ride: Competitor with occasional promos
• InDrive: Negotiate your fare. Sometimes cheaper

Island Transport

• Langkawi: Ferries from Kuala Kedah (1.5 hours, RM23) or Kuala Perlis (1 hour, RM18)
• Perhentian: Boats from Kuala Besut (45 min, RM70 return)
• Tioman: Ferries from Mersing (2 hours, RM70 return)
• Redang: Boats from Merang (45 min, usually package deals)

East Malaysia

• Sabah/Sarawak: Flights recommended. Limited roads between states
• Within Sabah: Buses available but slow. Grab works in KK
• Within Sarawak: Boats along rivers still used in rural areas

Transport Costs (2026 Estimates)

• KL MRT single trip: RM1.20-6.40
• Grab (5km in KL): RM8-15
• AirAsia KL-Penang: RM50-150 (book ahead)
• Bus KL-Penang: RM35-50
• ETS train KL-Penang: RM59-79
• Langkawi ferry: RM18-23 one way
• Car rental: RM80-150/day

Budget (Under RM100/night)

Hostels

• KL: BackHome (Chinatown), Reggae Mansion (Bukit Bintang), Paper Plane Hostel
• Penang: Container Hotel, Ryokan Muntri, 23 Love Lane
• Melaka: Nomaps Hostel, Ringo's Foyer
• Price: RM25-60 dorm, RM80-120 private room
• Booking: Hostelworld, Booking.com

Budget Hotels

• Chains: Tune Hotel, My Hotel, Hotel & Hotel
• Price: RM60-100/night
• What to expect: Clean, basic, air-con, WiFi, central locations

Guesthouses

• Best for: Authentic experience, local tips
• Price: RM50-100/night
• Popular areas: George Town heritage zone, Melaka old town

Mid-Range (RM150-400/night)

Business Hotels

• Chains: Ibis, Holiday Inn Express, Cititel, Impiana
• Price: RM150-250/night
• Perks: Breakfast included, gym, central locations

Boutique Hotels

• KL: Stripes KL, The Majestic, Villa Samadhi
• Penang: Seven Terraces, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Macalister Mansion
• Melaka: The Majestic Malacca, Casa del Rio
• Price: RM250-500/night
• Best for: Instagram-worthy stays, heritage experience

Serviced Apartments

• Chains: Somerset, Ascott, Fraser Residence
• Price: RM200-400/night
• Best for: Families, longer stays, self-catering

Luxury (RM400+/night)

International Chains

• KL: Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, W Hotel
• Penang: Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Shangri-La Rasa Sayang
• Langkawi: The Datai, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton
• Price: RM600-2,500/night

Malaysian Luxury

• YTL Hotels: Pangkor Laut Resort, Cameron Highlands Resort, Tanjong Jara
• Price: RM800-3,000/night
• Best for: World-class Malaysian hospitality

Booking Tips

• Best rates: Book direct for loyalty points, or use Agoda (strong in Asia)
• Timing: 2-3 months ahead for peak seasons (CNY, Raya, school holidays)
• Weekday discount: 20-40% cheaper than weekends
• Long stay: Negotiate 10-20% off for 7+ nights
• Credit card perks: Maybank, CIMB often have hotel partnerships

Unique Stays

• Longhouse (Sarawak): Traditional Iban/Bidayuh experience. RM100-200/night
• Kampung stay: Village homestays. RM50-100/night with meals
• Floating chalet (Terengganu): Overwater bungalows. RM200-400/night
• Tea plantation (Cameron): Colonial bungalows. RM300-600/night
• Treehouse (Sabah): Jungle lodges. RM150-400/night

Visa Requirements

160+ countries enjoy visa-free access for 30-90 days. Check with Malaysian immigration for your specific nationality. eVisa available for countries requiring visas.

Currency & Costs

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR/RM). Current rate approximately RM4.5 = USD1. Malaysia offers excellent value:

• Street food meal: RM5-15
• Restaurant meal: RM20-50
• Budget hotel: RM80-150/night
• Mid-range hotel: RM200-400/night
• Grab ride (5km): RM8-15

Getting Around

• Kuala Lumpur: MRT, LRT, Monorail, Grab
• Between cities: AirAsia (cheap flights), KLIA Ekspres, intercity buses
• Islands: Ferries from mainland ports
• Sabah/Sarawak: Flights recommended (limited road connections)

Language

Bahasa Malaysia is official, but English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. Mandarin and Tamil also common.

Safety

Malaysia is generally very safe. Normal precautions apply. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas. Emergency: 999.

Health

No mandatory vaccinations. Tap water safe in cities but bottled water recommended. Excellent private healthcare available.

Connectivity

4G/5G coverage excellent. Tourist SIMs available at airports (RM30-50 for 7-30 days with data). Free WiFi common in malls and cafes.

Tipping

Not expected but appreciated. Service charge (10%) often included in restaurants. Round up Grab fares if service was good.

Shopping Sales Calendar

• January: New Year sales (up to 70% off)
• February-March: CNY + Raya sales overlap
• June: Mid-year mega sales, 6.6 online sales
• August-September: Merdeka Sale Season (31% and 69% discounts)
• November: 11.11 Singles Day (biggest online deals)
• December: Year-end clearance (up to 80% off)

Credit Card Strategies

• Maybank cards: Extra points at partner malls
• CIMB: Dining promotions
• HSBC: Premium mall benefits
• Use cards with no foreign transaction fees

Hotel Booking Tips

• Book 2-3 months ahead for CNY, Raya, school holidays
• Weekday rates 20-40% cheaper than weekends
• Use Agoda (strong in Asia) or direct booking for best rates
• Consider Airbnb for longer stays

Flight Deals

• AirAsia: Book 2-3 months ahead, Tuesday releases
• Malaysia Airlines: Watch for MHholidays packages
• Firefly: Good for domestic routes
• Use Google Flights for price tracking

Food Deals

• Grab Food: Daily vouchers and promos
• Fave: Restaurant deals up to 50% off
• Hotel buffets: Weekday lunch best value
• Ramadan buffets: Book early, excellent value

Mall Loyalty Programs

• Pavilion Elite: Parking, points, exclusive events
• 1 Utama ONE Card: Rebates, birthday rewards
• Sunway Pals: Cross-property benefits

Understanding Malaysian Culture

Malaysia's multicultural society means navigating different customs depending on who you're interacting with. Here's your guide to being a respectful visitor in 2026.

Religious Considerations

Mosques & Islamic Sites:

• Remove shoes before entering
• Women should cover hair, arms, and legs (robes often provided)
• Men should wear long pants
• Don't walk in front of someone praying
• Photography usually allowed but ask first
• Avoid visiting during Friday prayers (12-2pm)

Hindu Temples:

• Remove shoes before entering
• Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
• Don't point feet at deities or people
• Walk clockwise around shrines
• Don't touch offerings or statues

Buddhist Temples:

• Remove shoes in main halls
• Dress modestly
• Don't point feet at Buddha images
• Bow slightly when passing monks
• Photography usually permitted

Chinese Temples:

• Shoes can usually stay on
• Don't blow out incense (wave it out)
• Walk around, not through, incense smoke
• Respect those praying

General Social Etiquette

Greetings:

• Handshakes common but some Muslim women prefer not to shake hands with men
• If unsure, wait for the other person to extend hand first
• Slight bow or hand-on-heart gesture is always appropriate
• Use both hands when giving/receiving items (shows respect)

Dining Etiquette:

• Many Malaysians eat with right hand (left considered unclean)
• Chopsticks for Chinese food, fork and spoon for Malay/Indian
• Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice (funeral symbolism)
• Leaving a little food shows you're satisfied
• Host usually pays; offer but don't insist

Dress Code:

• Generally casual but modest
• Cover shoulders and knees at religious sites
• Beachwear only at beaches
• Smart casual for upscale restaurants
• Remove shoes when entering homes

Photography:

• Ask before photographing people
• No photos in some religious areas
• Avoid photographing military/police installations
• Street photography generally accepted

2026 Festival Etiquette

Chinese New Year (Feb 17-Mar 3):

• Wear red for good luck
• Don't wear black or white (funeral colors)
• Bring mandarin oranges when visiting
• Accept ang pow (red packets) with both hands
• Say "Gong Xi Fa Cai" (Congratulations and prosperity)

Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Mar 20-21):

• Dress modestly when visiting
• Remove shoes at homes
• Accept food offerings graciously
• Say "Selamat Hari Raya" (Happy Hari Raya)
• Green packets (duit raya) given to children

Deepavali (Oct 8):

• Wear bright colors
• Remove shoes at homes
• Accept sweets offered
• Say "Happy Deepavali"
• Admire kolam (floor art) but don't step on it

Thaipusam (Jan 31):

• Dress modestly (yellow is auspicious)
• Don't eat beef before visiting
• Respect devotees in trance
• Photography from respectful distance
• Don't interfere with rituals

Practical Tips

Pointing:

• Don't point with index finger
• Use thumb or whole hand instead
• Especially important when indicating people

Feet:

• Don't show soles of feet to people
• Don't use feet to point or move things
• Remove shoes when entering homes

Head:

• Don't touch people's heads (considered sacred)
• This includes children

Public Behavior:

• Public displays of affection frowned upon
• Same-sex affection should be very discreet
• Loud behavior considered rude
• Queuing is expected

Alcohol:

• Available but not in Muslim-majority areas
• Don't drink in public during Ramadan (daytime)
• Some states have restrictions (Kelantan, Terengganu)
• Duty-free in Langkawi

Ramadan Considerations (Feb 18-Mar 19, 2026):

• Muslims fast sunrise to sunset
• Eating in public during day is insensitive
• Restaurants may have reduced hours
• Bazaar Ramadan (evening food markets) are amazing
• Hari Raya at end is major celebration

Staying Safe and Healthy in Malaysia

Malaysia is generally very safe for tourists, but awareness of potential issues helps ensure a smooth trip.

Safety Overview

Crime:

• Petty theft is the main concern
• Snatch theft (motorcycles grabbing bags) occurs in cities
• Keep bags on inside shoulder when walking
• Don't flash expensive items
• Use hotel safes for valuables

Scams:

• Taxi overcharging (use Grab instead)
• Fake tour operators (book through hotels or reputable agencies)
• Gem scams (don't buy gems from strangers)
• Money changer shortchanging (count before leaving)

Areas to Be Cautious:

• Isolated areas at night
• Certain parts of Chow Kit (KL) after dark
• Border areas with Thailand (far south)
• Eastern Sabah coast (travel advisories exist)

Natural Hazards:

• Monsoon flooding (Nov-Feb east coast, Sep-Nov west coast)
• Jellyfish (seasonal, check locally)
• Strong currents at some beaches
• Jungle hazards (stick to marked trails)

Emergency Numbers:

• Police/Ambulance/Fire: 999
• Tourist Police: 03-2166 8322
• Tourism Hotline: 1-300-88-5050

Health Considerations

No Mandatory Vaccinations (for most travelers)

• Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic country
• Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus
• Consider: Japanese Encephalitis (if rural/long stay)

Common Health Issues:

• Heat exhaustion: Stay hydrated, rest in AC
• Sunburn: Use SPF 30+, reapply frequently
• Stomach upset: Stick to busy food stalls, avoid ice in rural areas
• Mosquito bites: Use repellent, especially at dawn/dusk

Dengue Fever:

• Mosquito-borne, present year-round
• Use repellent, especially in urban areas
• Symptoms: High fever, severe headache, joint pain
• Seek medical attention if suspected

Water Safety:

• Tap water safe in major cities but bottled recommended
• Ice in restaurants generally safe
• Avoid tap water in rural areas
• Stay hydrated (aim for 3+ liters daily)

Medical Facilities:

• Private hospitals excellent (Gleneagles, Pantai, Prince Court)
• Public hospitals adequate but crowded
• Pharmacies well-stocked
• Many doctors speak English

Travel Insurance:

• Highly recommended
• Ensure coverage for activities planned (diving, hiking)
• Medical evacuation coverage important
• Keep policy details accessible

Sun Protection:

• Malaysia is near equator—UV is intense
• Sunburn happens quickly, even on cloudy days
• Wear hat and sunglasses
• Seek shade during midday (11am-3pm)

Food Safety:

• Street food is generally safe
• Choose busy stalls (high turnover)
• Ensure meat is cooked thoroughly
• Wash hands frequently
• Carry hand sanitizer

Medication:

• Bring prescription medications in original packaging
• Carry doctor's letter for controlled substances
• Common medications available at pharmacies
• Paracetamol, antihistamines, antidiarrheals easy to find

COVID-19 & Respiratory Illness (2026):

• Check current requirements before travel
• Masks may be required in healthcare settings
• Hand sanitizer widely available
• Most restrictions lifted but situation can change

Specific Activity Safety:

Diving:

• Use PADI-certified operators
• Check equipment condition
• Don't fly within 24 hours of diving
• Ensure insurance covers diving

Hiking:

• Stick to marked trails
• Inform someone of your plans
• Bring sufficient water
• Start early to avoid afternoon heat/storms
• Guides recommended for challenging trails

Water Activities:

• Check conditions before swimming
• Heed warning flags at beaches
• Wear life jacket for boat trips
• Be cautious of currents

What to Pack for Malaysia

Malaysia's tropical climate and diverse activities require thoughtful packing. Here's your comprehensive checklist.

Clothing Essentials

Everyday Wear:

• Light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking)
• Loose-fitting clothes (tight clothes uncomfortable in humidity)
• Light colors (reflect heat better)
• 5-7 t-shirts/tops
• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 2-3 pairs of lightweight pants/trousers
• 1-2 casual dresses (women)

For Religious Sites:

• Long pants or skirt (below knee)
• Shirt with sleeves (covers shoulders)
• Light scarf (women, for mosques)
• Sarong (versatile, can buy locally)

For Air-Conditioning:

• Light cardigan or jacket
• Long pants
• Malls and transport are COLD

Footwear:

• Comfortable walking sandals
• Sneakers/trainers (for hiking, walking)
• Flip-flops (beach, hostel showers)
• Slip-on shoes (easy for temple visits)

Swimwear:

• Swimsuit/trunks
• Rash guard (sun protection, modest option)
• Cover-up for walking to/from beach

Rain Gear:

• Compact umbrella (essential)
• Light rain jacket (optional)
• Waterproof bag for electronics

Electronics

Essential:

• Smartphone (navigation, Grab, translation)
• Charger and cable
• Power bank (10,000mAh minimum)
• Universal adapter (Malaysia uses UK-style 3-pin)

Recommended:

• Camera (phone cameras are usually sufficient)
• Earphones/headphones
• E-reader (for long journeys)

Toiletries

Bring from Home:

• Sunscreen SPF 30+ (expensive in Malaysia)
• Insect repellent with DEET
• Prescription medications
• Contact lens supplies
• Preferred skincare products

Buy Locally:

• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Basic toiletries (cheaper and available everywhere)

Health & Safety

First Aid Kit:

• Plasters/band-aids
• Antiseptic wipes
• Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Antihistamines
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Rehydration salts
• Motion sickness tablets

Documents:

• Passport (6+ months validity)
• Printed copies of bookings
• Travel insurance documents
• Vaccination records
• Driver's license (if renting car)
• Passport photos (2-4 extras)

Digital Copies:

• Store in cloud (Google Drive, iCloud)
• Email copies to yourself
• Passport, insurance, bookings, itinerary

Practical Items

Day Bag:

• Small backpack or crossbody bag
• Anti-theft features helpful
• Water bottle pocket

Useful Items:

• Reusable water bottle
• Dry bag (for beach/water activities)
• Packing cubes (organization)
• Laundry bag
• Earplugs and eye mask
• Travel towel (quick-dry)
• Ziplock bags (various sizes)
• Pen (for forms)

What NOT to Pack:

• Heavy clothing (you won't need it)
• Too many shoes (2-3 pairs max)
• Expensive jewelry
• Large amounts of cash
• Anything you'd be devastated to lose
• Full-size toiletries (buy locally)
• Formal wear (unless specifically needed)

Packing Tips:

• Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles
• Wear bulkiest items on travel days
• Leave room for souvenirs
• Pack a change of clothes in carry-on
• Keep electronics and valuables in carry-on
• Check airline baggage allowances (budget airlines strict)

Luggage Recommendations:

Backpacker:

• 40-50L backpack
• Small daypack

Regular Traveler:

• Medium suitcase (23kg checked)
• Personal item/daypack

Luxury Traveler:

• Large suitcase
• Carry-on
• Personal item