Packing checklist

Get style-specific extras (safari kit, kids, surf gear…):

Documents & money

• Passport (6+ months validity) + printed ETA visa
• Return/onward ticket confirmation
• Travel insurance policy (with scooter cover if riding)
• Two bank cards kept separately + some USD/EUR cash
• Printed first-night hotel confirmation
• Driving licence + international permit (if self-driving)

Clothing

• Light, breathable clothes (cotton/linen)
• Modest outfit covering shoulders & knees (temples)
• One warm layer for the hill country and AC buses
• Light rain jacket or compact umbrella
• Swimwear + quick-dry towel
• Comfortable walking sandals + one pair of closed shoes
• Socks you can slip off fast — shoes come off at temples

Health & toiletries

• High-SPF sunscreen (expensive locally)
• Mosquito repellent (DEET or picaridin)
• Basic first-aid kit + rehydration salts
• Any prescription medicine + copy of prescription
• Hand sanitiser and tissues (not all bathrooms stock paper)

Tech & extras

• Universal adapter (Sri Lanka: type D/G/M, 230V)
• Power bank — long train and bus days
• Local SIM/eSIM plan (airport counters or apps)
• Dry bag or zip-locks for boat trips and rain
• Reusable water bottle (many hotels refill filtered water)
• Sunglasses + sun hat