8 packing essentials when traveling across Southeast Asia, according to our reporters

Alexandra Karplus,Amanda Goh,Cheryl Teh,Harris Jamaluddin,Huileng Tan,Kai Xiang Teo,Marielle Descalsota,Nidhi PandurangiSep 9, 2023, 19:04 IST

Insider's reporters in Singapore share their travel essentials when traveling around Southeast Asia.Marielle Descalsota/Kai Xiang Teo/Insider

Southeast Asia is a popular tourist destination thanks to the region's year-round tropical weather.
But traveling the region can be uncomfortable — especially if you don't pack the right items with you.

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular regions to travel in the world — in 2019, it drew over 147 million tourists.

The region is famous for its deep culture, flavorful cuisines, tropical weather, and gorgeous natural landscapes.

Many of Insider's Singapore-based reporters have spent years traveling across Southeast Asia, from the temples of Thailand to the beaches of Indonesia and beyond. Below, eight of us have pooled our top packing tips for tourists exploring Southeast Asia, whether you're here for a weekend or spending several weeks backpacking around.

1. A DIY sun and heat protection kit

Amanda Goh always travels with sunscreen, an umbrella, and a portable fan.Amanda Goh/Insider

2. A pack of cold wipes to keep me cool in the heat

Cheryl Teh's essentials include some cooling wipes from Gatsby.Cheryl Teh/Insider

3. A three-in-one foldable charging station

Alexandra Karplus, working at a cafe in Bali, always makes sure to pack a universal converter and charging stationAlexandra Karplus/Insider

4. A tourist eSIM card

Harris Jamaluddin always uses a tourist SIM card when traveling out of Singapore.Harris Jamaluddin/Insider

6. A full suite of ride-hailing apps

Huileng Tan uses ride-hailing apps whenever she travels.Huileng Tan/Insider

6. A set of travel cutlery

Kai Xiang Teo has backpacked across Southeast Asia and recommends bringing your own cutlery.Kai Xiang Teo/Insider

7. High-quality flip-flops

Marielle Descalsota recommends bringing along a high-quality pair of sandals or flip flops.Marielle Descalsota/Insider

8. Insect repellent and wet wipes

Nidhi Pandurangi brings along a bottle of mosquito repellent in her travel bag.Nidhi Pandurangi/Insider

I've gone on 50+ cruises and just tried Norwegian Cruise Line for the first time. I was disappointed despite some pleasant surprises.

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