Borneo Packing List: My Ultimate Packing Guide in 2025

Last Updated on June 15, 2025 by Oliver

I love that you’re here right now because I would be the same, I could never go on a trip without trying to be as prepared as possible. And of course, all that preparation starts with a good old packing list.

What I pack definitely isn’t the same for every trip. The climate, the activities, and the culture of the place all play a huge part in what gear and clothes I bring to a new country.

I just got back from a two-week trip to Borneo where I spent most of my time in Sabah, so I actually know what to pack for Borneo (partially because I forgot a few things and immediately regretted it). 

So that the same thing doesn’t happen to you, I’ve put together a foolproof Borneo packing list, something that covers everything from camera gear and hiking boots to sunscreen and yes, even your underwear.

What to Pack for Borneo – My Experience

Ok, so as I mentioned, I just spent 2 weeks in Borneo, and I’ve got a pretty good idea of what you’ll actually need and what you can leave at home.

First off, don’t stress. Before I arrived in Borneo, I had this image in my head of it being super underdeveloped, like I’d be hacking my way through the jungle with a machete. That’s not the case. You don’t need to pack like you’re heading into an expedition.

Sure, Borneo is a little rough around the edges in places, but cities like Kota Kinabalu are actually really modern and way more built up than I expected. So now that we’ve cleared that up: no, you don’t need your full-blown adventure kit here.

What do I think was genuinely useful or what do I wish I’d packed?

Well, if you’re coming for the wildlife, you need a proper camera. I took a lot of pictures during the wildlife activities on my iPhone (sometimes even through binoculars), and let me tell you, it doesn’t cut it. You’ll want a real camera if you’re hoping to get anything remotely decent.

One more thing worth mentioning: Borneo is very Muslim, especially in Sabah. You won’t see many women without a hijab. So just try to be respectful of the local culture. I’m not saying you have to cover your whole body, Carae didn’t either, but she made sure to cover her shoulders and avoided wearing crop tops or anything super revealing.

My Packing List Borneo & Borneo Travel Tips

1. Luggage – A Backpack for Borneo?

Backpack: I’ve been traveling for years with just a backpack, and Borneo was no exception. If you’re coming for 10 days to two weeks, you really don’t need anything bigger than a 50L backpack. Keep it light and manageable, it makes getting around so much easier.

Suitcase: If you’re not a backpacker, that’s totally fine too. A suitcase works here without any problems. Most transport is arranged for you and usually happens in spacious minivans. I didn’t come across a single situation where a suitcase would’ve been an issue.

Daypack: A solid daypack is essential. It can double as your carry-on, but more importantly, you’ll be using it for day trips and activities throughout Borneo. I’d recommend something comfortable to wear for hours and no bigger than 15L.

Now, in terms of what I actually use, both Carae and I are huge fans of Osprey. I recently got the Osprey Atmos 50L, and it’s honestly the perfect backpack for this kind of trip: lightweight, roomy, and super comfortable to carry. As a daypack, I’ve been using the Osprey Daylite for a while now and love it, it’s got just enough space for water, snacks, and gear for both of us.

👉 Check out the Osprey Atmos 50L here
👉 See the Osprey Daylite Daypack we use here

2. Borneo Clothing – What Can I Wear?

Shorts: I was pretty much wearing light gym shorts all the time in Borneo, it’s just my go-to. I have two pairs of Lululemon shorts and they’re perfect for travel: super comfortable, breathable, and quick to dry. But of course, you can also go for something like denim or linen if you prefer.

Long Pants: Some lightweight long pants are great for jungle trekking or hikes. They’ll protect your legs from bites, scratches, and the sun. You don’t need hiking pants with zip-off legs or anything like that, just something light and breathable.

Linen Pants: If you want to keep your knees covered (Borneo is a very Muslim region) but still stay cool, linen pants are the way to go. Carae wore hers a lot and they were perfect.

T-Shirt: Any T-shirt works, but I’d avoid thick cotton. The Borneo rainforest is super humid, and breathable fabrics are way better. I personally always bring quick drying shirts or lightweight gym shirts.

Rain Jacket: You’re in the rainforest, bring one. Even if you only use it once or twice, it’ll be worth it. Look for one that folds into a little pouch and doesn’t take up space in your daypack.

Light Long Sleeve Top: Same reason as the long pants, it’s useful for hikes or jungle walks. You’ll want to cover your arms sometimes, especially when walking through denser forest.

Swimwear: A lot of hotels have pools, and if you end up in places like Semporna, you might want to go snorkeling or diving. Bring one or two swimsuits just in case.

Sun Hat: Absolutely essential. On the Kinabatangan River cruise, you’re on an open boat with no shade for hours. A wide-brimmed hat makes a massive difference.

Something Nice: I always pack a linen button-up shirt. It’s still very casual but feels a little nicer for dinners at upscale resorts. Doesn’t take up much space, and you’ll be glad you have it.

When it comes to rain jackets, both Carae and I always pack one no matter where we go, it’s just one of those things that always comes in handy. In Borneo, we definitely used them during sudden tropical downpours. I don’t go crazy with gear, so I’ve been using a basic Columbia rain jacket that folds up into a tiny bag. It’s affordable, light, and just works.

👉 Click here to check out the Columbia rain jacket I use.

3. Camera Equipment

Camera: If you’re coming to Borneo for the wildlife, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, you’ll definitely want a proper camera. iPhone photos just don’t cut it, especially on river cruises or in the jungle where animals are far away and lighting can be tricky. A camera with a good zoom lens will make a huge difference.

Zoom Lens: Wildlife in Borneo doesn’t exactly pose for close-ups, so a solid zoom lens is essential. Something like a 70–300mm lens (or even more) will get you much closer without disturbing the animals.

Binoculars: Not technically camera gear, but really handy to have. Most wildlife is high in the trees or across the river, and binoculars help you actually see what you’re trying to photograph.

Memory Cards & Extra Batteries: You’ll be surprised how quickly you burn through storage and battery out in the rainforest. Bring extra memory cards and at least one spare battery.

Dry Bag or Waterproof Pouch: It’s the rainforest, expect rain. Protect your gear with a dry bag or at least a waterproof pouch for your daypack.

I’m not a camera expert myself, but my friend who I was traveling with brought the Canon EOS Rebel T7, and honestly the photos they got were unreal. Super crisp, even from far away. If you’re looking for something travel-friendly but still great for wildlife, that’s a solid pick.

👉 Check out the Canon EOS Rebel T7 here,  probably the best camera I saw in action during our Borneo trip.

4. Footwear

Trail Runners: Definitely handy to have. I prefer trail runners over hiking boots, they’re light, breathable, and perfect for casual hikes or jungle treks. Unless you’re planning a full mountain expedition, you won’t need proper heavy-duty boots in Borneo.

Sandals/Flip Flops: I’d personally pick sandals over flip-flops, but everyone’s different. Either way, you’ll want a pair of open shoes. It’s just way more breathable and comfortable in the heat, especially when you’re not doing anything too active.

When it comes to shoes, I do prefer trail runners over bulky hiking boots, especially when I’m backpacking. They’re just lighter and way more practical. I used to travel with basic Nike runners, but recently I upgraded to a pair of Salomon trail shoes and I’m honestly super happy with them. They’ve been perfect for Borneo: great grip for hikes, lightweight for the humidity, and comfortable all day.

And yes, maybe it’s the German in me, but for sandals I swear by the Birkenstock EVA Slides. They’re made out of rubber, super easy to clean, and way more comfortable than your average flip-flops.

👉 Click here to check out the Salomon trail runners I wear.
👉 Click here to see the Birkenstock EVA Slides.

5. Travel Documents

Passport: Well, needless to say, have your passport on you when traveling. I always keep mine in my bum bag along with all my important documents so it’s always on hand at the airport.

Insurance Documents: I recommend carrying a little card or piece of paper with your travel insurance contact, emergency phone numbers, or email, plus the numbers of your spouse, parents, or anyone you’d want to call in an emergency. Just in case everything else gets lost.

Return Flight: In some cases, you’ll need to show a return flight ticket when entering the country, so make sure you have that confirmed and accessible.

Visa Documents: Most likely you’ll have to fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card before you arrive. You can do that online (it’s pretty quick and easy).

Cash: I’m not a big fan of travelling with lots of cash. There are amazing travel cards like Wise or Charles Schwab that don’t charge international ATM fees. Still, having a little cash on you never hurts.

When it comes to travel insurance for Borneo, I really can’t recommend SafetyWing enough. I’ve been travelling for years now and they’ve always been helpful, super easy to contact online and I’ve never had any issues with claims. Honestly, the customer service is just top notch.

👉 Click here to check out SafetyWing Travel Insurance

6. Personal Items – My Essentials

Sunscreen: I highly recommend bringing some with you. Most sunscreen you find in Borneo is either super overpriced or has whitening ingredients in it, which I definitely try to avoid.

Powerbank: I always travel with a portable charger or powerbank, super handy, especially on long travel days or during jungle trips. I’ve been using the Anker PowerCore for years now and it’s never let me down.

Bug Spray / Repellent: You can definitely bring some from home, but you’ll also find it in basically every shop in Borneo. Either way, it’s a must.

Water Bottle: Every hotel I stayed at had water refill stations, so do the planet a favor and bring a reusable bottle. I always pack my Hydro Flask, keeps drinks cold all day.

Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, brush, makeup, razor, shampoo, body wash, pack whatever you usually use. You’ll find stuff in shops too, but better to have your own.

Sunglasses: Couldn’t survive a day without them. Total essential, especially when you’re out on boats or island hopping.

Regular Glasses / Contact Lenses: Don’t forget these, otherwise you definitely won’t be spotting any orangutans in the wild.

Medication: From personal prescriptions to basics like ibuprofen, paracetamol, or some bandages, I always carry a little pouch, kind of like a mini first aid kit.

👉 Click here to check out my favorite Reusable Water Bottle

7. Hiking Gear – Only for Mount Kinablu

Hiking Shoes or Trail Runners: You’ll want proper footwear for this hike. Mount Kinabalu is no joke, it’s steep, rocky, and slippery in parts, especially near the summit. I’d go with sturdy trail runners or lightweight hiking shoes with good grip.

Warm Layers: It gets cold at the top. Like, seriously cold. Bring a fleece or down jacket for summit morning. You’ll start hiking around 2 AM in the dark and it can feel freezing up there.

Gloves & Hat: Again, for summit morning. You’ll thank yourself for packing gloves and a warm beanie. It’s not just for comfort, your fingers will actually stop working properly if it gets too cold.

Headlamp: This is essential. The second half of the hike is done in the dark so you can reach the summit by sunrise. Get a head torch with decent brightness and fresh batteries.

Reusable Water Bottle: You’ll need to stay hydrated. There are refill points at the base and at the overnight hut, but I’d still bring at least 1L with you for the day.

Snacks: While meals are provided on the overnight trek, it’s always smart to have energy bars or trail mix with you, especially for summit day when you’ll need a boost.

FAQs About my Malaysian Borneo Packing List

Can I wear shorts in Borneo?

Temperature-wise, 100% yes. And culturally, I think so too. Carae and I wore shorts pretty much every day and never got any weird looks. Just avoid super revealing stuff and you’ll be fine.

What to wear in Borneo jungle?

Wear something light and breathable that still covers your skin. I’d go for thin long pants and a long sleeve top, which helps protect you from sun, scratches, and insect bites without making you overheat.

Do you need malaria tablets for Borneo?

Nope. The risk of malaria is very low in the parts of Borneo most travelers go to, and tablets aren’t generally recommended. I didn’t take any and was totally fine.

Do I need leech socks in Borneo?

I didn’t have any, and I really don’t think they’re necessary, at least not for the type of jungle treks I did. If you’re going deep into the rainforest or doing serious multi-day hikes, sure, bring them. But for the average wildlife tour? You’ll be fine without.

Final Thoughts on My Borneo Packing List

I really don’t think you need to stress too much about what to bring to Borneo. Most activities here are very guided, and at least in my experience, I never felt like I was missing any special gear or equipment. The wildlife stuff usually happens by boat or on easy trails, and you’ll most likely be staying in a comfy Borneo rainforest lodge.

The only real exception is if you’re planning to climb Mount Kinabalu, then yes, bring proper hiking shoes, a headlamp, warm layers, and all the usual mountain gear. But for everything else, stick to breathable clothes, solid shoes, and maybe a good camera, and you’re good to go.

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