This Kit-List is for anyone who is part of a School Expedition. If you are joining us as a Research Assistant, Dissertation student or to complete your Divemaster training, you should be looking at this webpage: Indonesia Kit List
This page is a guide to the expedition kit you will need for your expedition based on what you will be doing in Indonesia and the experience of previous expeditions.
When packing you need to be thinking of the minimum amount you can take whilst remaining comfortable and safe. For Indonesia the internal flights limit is 15kg of hold luggage (please refer to the main training video for details) and 7kg of hand luggage (although they rarely weigh this, so please put heavy things in your hand luggage). You therefore you need to aim for light, compact, durable, quick-drying and versatile equipment. The list below is essential kit – unless stated as optional. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact your local Opwall office. The Indonesia Project Leader Mo Johnson, can also be contacted on: +62 8124 572 4054 or indonesia@opwall.com, or you can contact the Opwall UK office on: +44 1790 763194
To download a copy of the kit list, click here.
Insurance documents – Please bring 2 photocopies of your Travel insurance documents with you. One to hand in at site, and one to keep with you. Not applicable if your school is providing travel insurance cover.
Photocopy of passport – Please bring 2 passport photocopies with you (each on a separate piece of A4 paper) as you will need to hand this in when you arrive and you should have a spare in-case you lose your passport. Store these in a separate place to your passport.
Visa copy – Please bring 2 photocopies with you. One to hand in on site, and one to keep with you.
Working in such remote locations often involving numerous flights and forms of transport, luggage can go missing. It is best to be prepared to go without your large bag for a few days, just in case, so here is what we recommend you pack in your hand luggage. remember you may only have 7kgs of hand luggage on internal flights
Valuables – Including passport, money, and any expensive equipment (e.g. phone, camera etc).
Personal medicine – Must be in original packaging. Any medication you require personally, such as inhalers, epipens, as well as any malaria tablets.
Documentation – Passport photocopies, visa copies, and insurance copies.
Change of clothes – Including spare underwear.
Head torch /head lamp – Essential for your expedition, so this is not something you want to lose.
Toiletries – Tooth brush and wet wipes, deodorant.
Fleece/thick top – Wear this on the plane, it will keep you warm, and also saves space in your luggage.
Travel adapter & power bank – Pack these so you can keep your devices charged and usable during transit and unexpected delays. Please ensure you have the correct adaptor for Indonesian socket which is a European Style adaptor (2 large round prongs).
Rucksack – We recommend at least 50L capacity with good back support and a waistband. Need to fit you well and be comfortable as you will need to carry this bag on transfers and there is a short walk to get to your accommodation from the jetty when you arrive.
Rucksack waterproof cover & waterproof liner bag – It can rain quite heavily in Indonesia, and you will be carrying your bags during transfers. A cover will help to keep your kit dry. The pack ideally needs to have a waterproof liner/bag into which everything is packed inside (a water-proof cover helps keep a bag looking clean, but a large garbage bag into which everything is packed and can be sealed inside is the easiest solution for keeping everything dry).
Day bag/Small rucksack – 20-30L. Used to carry everything you will need for the day as you may not have time to return to your rooms between activites. Use this as your hand luggage on flights. Waterproof cover recommended.
Sleeping Bag and/or liner or cotton sheet – Lightweight, 1-2 seasons. A light sleeping bag is recommended – the temperature rarely drops below about 20 degrees. You may also want to bring a sleeping bag liner as in warmer conditions these can be more comfortable and they are very light.
Water bottle – To keep drinking water with you all day as it is very hot and you still sweat underwater! We don’t want you to become dehydrated
Head Torch – Absolutely essential as there is no electricity at night and you will need this to get back to your hut. It is highly recommended that you bring a head torch that has a rechargeable lithium battery rather than single use batteries. Batteries are not available to purchase or dispose of on-site, you must take any used ones home with you.
Waterproof jacket/poncho – You only need a very lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho, as it is very humid. Pac-a-mac or similar would be ideal as it they pack down very small. Heavyweight Gore-Tex raincoats are pointless – they are hot and may get snagged and torn.
Padlock – For valuables lockers.
Travel towel/Sarong – Don’t bring a big thick towel as it won’t dry quickly enough.
Watch with alarm – To wake yourself up early for morning sessions. Doesn’t have to be expensive. Notebook and pencil Essential for taking notes during lectures!
Light colours (not white) are recommended as they don’t retain the heat. Use quick drying, lightweight materials. There will be a chance to get clothing washed onsite if you wish (this is very cheap). It is ok to wear shorts (knee length) and vests/strappy tops around the marine site as long as they aren’t too revealing and your midriff isn’t on show. You will need t-shirts covering your shoulders when visiting local villages.
Remember you need to travel light. Label your baggage, clothes and kit; there are many volunteers, and some may have the same or similar items to you. Unfortunately valuables are very occasionally at risk, so please only take what is vital for your expedition. Don’t forget to buy your Opwall t-shirt from here!
T-shirts/tops (enough for two weeks) – Loose fitting is best. Vest-tops are okay for wearing on Hoga but during transfers, shoulders must be covered. Remember and keep a set of clean clothes for the journey home.
Long Shorts/Trousers (enough for two weeks) – Lightweight and loose fitting, quick dry is best. Shorts must cover the knee, or stop just above.
Nightwear/Pyjamas – Accommodation is shared so bring something comfortable and appropriate to sleep in.
Underwear and bras – Please bring at least 2 weeks’ worth of underwear. This should be comfortable fitting.
Hat or Bandana – Useful to protect you from the sun.
Sunglasses – A good pair are useful to protect your eyes from the sun and glare reflected from water when travelling on boats.
Flip-Flops – For walking around the site
Swimwear – Shoulders and midriffs must be covered. A rash vest is essential along with your swim suit or swim shorts. You wear these under your full-length wetsuit.
Below is a list of essential (unless stated otherwise) equipment required, and is in addition to the core kit.
With spending so much time in the water, you want to make sure that you have the correct equipment. Dive and snorkel equipment is included as part of your package though you may wish to buy your own mask, snorkel or fins.
If you do wish to buy any of these we strongly suggest that you call the agents that we work with directly (see purchasing advice) as they will be able to provide you with both excellent advice as well as giving you information on their best deals!
Dive Training Materials – If you’re learning to SCUBA dive on expedition, you will need dive training materials. These are now entirely online so to make things easier for you we’ve arranged them on your behalf. You’ll receive an email from us in the run up to the expedition with login details and information on how to access them. We highly recommend bringing a smartphone or tablet with you so you can then access them on expedition. If you have independently bought dive training materials please let us know as soon as possible by emailing diving@opwall.com.
Marine medical forms – You must complete these online via the Opwall portal at least 3 months prior to travel. It’s recommended that you bring out a printed copy of the completed form with you on expedition, particularly if you’ve had it signed by a doctor or dive medic.
Proof of dive qualification – If you are already a qualified diver, we will require proof of your dive qualifications on site. We do accept non-PADI qualifications, as long as it is equivalent to or more advanced than PADI Open Water.
Wetsuit – Bring a 3mm thick full-length wetsuit for protection in the water and warmth. If bringing a shortie wetsuit you must also bring a long sleeve rash vest and full-length leggings to wear underneath. Not available to hire on site.
Dive Booties – Essential for walking out to the boats. Need to have a rubber sole.
Dive watch or computer – This is a requirement under PADI regulations for qualified divers. However, PADI allows Open Water divers to go off diving in buddy pairs on their own without a Dive Master whereas Opwall regulations require that all divers are accompanied by a Dive Master who times their dives. Under these circumstances we don’t consider it necessary but if you have a waterproof watch or dive computer please take it.
Mask, snorkel and fins – optional to bring your own – The hire costs of these items is already included in your package price to Opwall so these items will be provided for you to use onsite. You may however wish to bring your own mask & snorkel if you already have one.
Camera – You will have lots of opportunities to take pictures but please bring a waterproof carrying case/bag for the camera. You will have lots of opportunities to take pictures so if you have a GoPro or waterproof camera, consider bringing this with you. Please do not bring a drone, without the correct license from the Indonesian Government you could face a penalty fine.
Earphones/cards/book – Journeys can be long so bring something to keep yourself entertained.
Language/phrase book – This is a recommendation stressed by previous volunteers. Also worth noting many translating apps allow you to download language packs you can use offline
Folding fan – You will be glad you brought one when the midday heat hits.
Earplugs/eye mask – If you are someone that generally struggles to sleep, this could help. Also useful for a long plane and boat journey!
Small tupperware box with a good seal – To keep any snacks in to prevent wildlife from helping themselves
Personal reusable straw – For drinking fresh coconuts on site.
Nail clippers/tweezers – If you are staying in camp for a long amount of time these will be very useful.
2-3 Bandanas or cotton handkerchiefs – To be used as ‘sweat rags’ to wipe your face. It is very humid and sweaty!
Vitamin/mineral supplements – The diet is very basic in Indonesia, so these can be a good idea.
Snacks & condiments – Cereal bars, protein bars or things to spice up your meals!
Optional suggested donation or gift items to bring for the school in Sampela Village – Examples would be pencils and erasers, colouring pencils, whiteboard markers, kids colouring books, sports equipment like footballs and basket balls, frisbee, volley balls, badminton rackets, nets and shuttlecocks.
Please bring ‘green’ or biodegradable toiletries to minimize the impact on the environment. Most biodegradable soaps are multi-use. Sanex 0%, Lush, The Body Shop, Ecover, Alba Botanica and many health stores offer ’green’ detergents.
Good tip to travelling light is to get into small groups to combine things like toiletries and sun block as you don’t all need to bring a bottle each!
Toiletries bag – How are you storing these
Toothbrush & Toothpaste – Avoid bringing an electric toothbrush as you may struggle to charge it in the forest. We would recommend bringing a case to keep it clean.
Deodorant/anti-perspirant – You will sweat but nice to be fresh after washing. Avoid spray cans and take roll-on instead.
Hair and Body Wash – Biodegradable if possible, small travel sizes or bars rather than liquids to save space (make sure you have a tin if you have bars)
Small hand soap – For your private bathroom. There is hand soap in all communal handwashing areas.
Insect repellent – Malaria and dengue do occur in SE Sulawesi. ‘Mosi-Guard’ and ‘Skin so soft’ by Avon are effective, environmentally friendly insect repellents that do not contain DEET. See: www.alternativeinsectrepellent.co.uk/.
Sun cream – Factor 30, minimum, is recommended. Please ensure it is a coral friendly sun-block if you intend to use it in the water.
Sanitary towels/tampons – Please note, tampons are not available in Indonesia. Bring some even if you are not expecting to use them as both travel and the tropical climate can affect your menstrual cycle.
Any other toiletries you would normally use
Staff will be carrying medical kits and the medical provision on site is excellent. However, there are some items listed below you will also need to carry yourself. It is essential that you bring your own medical kit.
Antihistamine tablets – For insect bites. It’s useful if you can bring both drowsy and non drowsy
Antihistamine/Hydrocortisone cream – Bite/sting cream. Can be very beneficial for reducing itching and swelling of in- sect bites.
Paracetamol/aspirin – For headaches etc.
Ibuprofen – For swelling etc.
Rehydration salts – Rehydration salts kept in camp do not have the most appetising taste so please bring your own. You will be sweating a lot and losing fluids. Don’t forget to read the correct dosage to ensure you are absorbing the salts correctly
Antiseptic wipes – Cleaning cuts or grazes
Plasters (assorted sizes)
Personal Medication – It is vital that you bring any prescribed medications.
Vitamins – If you normally take these.
Malaria Tablets – Please seek your doctors advice on malaria prophylaxis. Please do not take Larium (mefloquine hydrochloride) if you are intending to dive, as you will not be allowed to dive on this medication.
Ear drops/ Eg swim ear – Useful to bring, especially if you are prone to ear problems
Sea/travel sickness tablets – The roads on Buton can be bumpy, and the boat journey to Hoga can be rough.
If you normally carry an epi-pen for any allergies, it is essential that you bring at least 2 or 3 with you on expedition.
If you use an inhaler, it is essential that you bring at least 2 with you in case you misplace one.
A Guide to Buying Dive Equipment – https://www.opwall.com/article/all-the-gear-but-no-ideayet/
Top Eco-Friendly Kit Ideas – https://www.opwall.com/article/top-eco-friendly-kit-ideas/
Beginner Fieldwork Equipment – https://www.opwall.com/article/beginner-fieldwork-equipment/
What Equipment to Borrow or Buy – https://www.opwall.com/article/the-festive-guide-to-gearing-up-for-your-expedition/
Top 10 Must Have Items! – https://www.opwall.com/article/lets-find-out-what-you-couldnt-live-without/
Hair & Skin Care at a Marine Site – https://www.opwall.com/article/hair-and-skin-care-at-a-marine-site/
Ecological Apps to Download – https://www.opwall.com/article/ecological-apps-so-you-can-identify-appsolutely-everything/
BBC Documentaries – BBC Blue Planet II – Series 1, Episode 3: Coral Reefs (Although, it’s all awesome)
Malay Archipelago – by Alfred Russel Wallace gives an excellent background to the area of Indonesia now known as the Wallacea region. This book which was published in the 1850’s can be obtained from Pisces Conservation in e-book format for £14-40 if you contact them directly (tel +44 (0)1590 674000 or email pisces@irchouse.demon.co.uk)
Reef Fish Identification—Tropical Pacific – By Gerald Allen is the best fish ID book for the area
You may find that you have suitable gear already, so don’t feel you have to buy everything new. Shop around as there are some really great deals out there and some items you may even be able to borrow from friends or relatives of a school outdoors or camping club. Never be afraid to buy second hand from places like vinted.
Please check the fundraising resources library (Password: wallacea81) for discount codes and a copy of the Sponsorship Support Letter to download for purchasing any equipment in person.
Below are some retailers we recommend checking out for great gear and helpful advice:
Go Outdoors (UK) – gooutdoors.co.uk – Lot’s of good brands and discounts for outdoor gear (wellies and boots!)
Mountain Warehouse (UK) – mountainwarehouse.com – good entry leverl dear at cheap prices – also occasionally has great sales/deals
Decathalon (UK/EU) – Decathalon.co.uk – some of the cheapest outdoor gear out there
Regatta/Craghoppers (UK) – craghoppers.com or outlet stores – can have a great sales, really high quality tropical equipment
Scuba Store (US and Canada) – scubastore.com – Diving equipment
Naturally Organic (NZ) – naturallyorganic.co.nz – Organic shampoos, body washes, sun lotion
Bivouac (NZ) – bivouac.co.nz – Outdoor clothing and equipment
Ecostore (NZ) – ecostoredirect.co.nz – Ecofriendly shampoos and body washes
Some spending money is needed to purchase meals during the internal travel period before and after the expedition.
The meals you will need to purchase yourself are outlined in the internal travel package info provided. We recommend budgeting 5-10 pounds sterling per meal and you will likely need to purchase between 4 and 6 meals depending on your exact travel itinerary.
If your hold luggage weights more than 20kgs you will be asked to pay for any extra kgs in IDR Cash at the airport when you check in. The cost for extra luggage is approx. GBP5/ UDS6.50/ AUD10 per kilogram extra, for each leg of the journey! So if you are 1kg over take that amount and multiply by two for your outbound and homeward bound journey.
You may also want to bring some spending money for personal on-site optional extras. This may include snacks & drinks, souvenirs that you wish to purchase from local shops and also to pay for any clothes washing you would like done by the local people.
The local Indonesian currency is Rupiah, it is essential that you bring some to use on site as other currencies are not accepted. Changing money to Rupiah may be possible in your home country, and if so this is recommended. If this is not possible, then you can change money at Jakarta or Bali international airport, or withdraw Rupiah from ATMs whilst in Jakarta, Bali, Makassar, or Kendari. Although you are likely to be on a tight travel schedule and so this may not be possible. Once you get to Buton Island there will be no way to exchange money, and no other currency is accepted apart from Indonesian Rupiah so ensure to plan ahead.
Once you are on the expedition you will be provided with 3 meals per day. If you would like to have extra snacks outside of this you are welcome to bring snack bars or protein bars with you, and you will also have the opportunity to purchase snacks from small local shops.
Every meal will include rice, as this is a staple in Indonesia. The diet is largely carbohydrate based. Fish is often served at dinner and occasionally other meat such as chicken. There is a vegetable dish with every meal, and fruit is served when possible.
You are able to send some clothes away for a washing when you arrive on Hoga (for a small fee – so make sure to have small notes) but it can take a couple of days so make sure you don’t send it all away! It is a good idea to keep one set of clothing clean for your flights to and from country, this makes your travel and the people around you more comfortable.
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