Mentawai Expeditions
Equipment Recommendations

Sleeping Gear

Apart from a cold beer, a good night's sleep is probably what you'll miss the most on Siberut. Mentawai people frequently chant and drum into the wee hours or just chat while smoking cigarettes. They might wake up in the middle of the night to enjoy these pleasures—and will most likely still be at it when you get out of bed!

You will share the uncomfortable wooden floor of the uma (communal house) with your hosts, so a sleeping mat is a must. Inflatable ones such as the Cascade Designs ultra-light are the best, but take longer to dry, and become ineffective if punctured. Foam mats are more durable and dry instantly, but are not quite as comfy. Bring a sarong to cover yourself, as nights can be cool. A good mosquito net with small holes, though not available in Padang, is essential. Earplugs are an investment in the quality of your rest, too; snorting, screaming pigs and crowing roosters will wake you before sunrise without them.

Bags and Waterproof Containers

Eventually everything you bring to Siberut will become wet. We highly recommend that you carry a small waterproof bag at all times to keep your passport, plane tickets and other small valuables safe and dry. I usually use a Cascade Design dry pocket bag. Bring the least and lightest gear and smallest backpack possible. A waterproof cover will help but won't always keep contents dry: when it rains, it pours!

Leaving Bags in Padang

You'll probably have too much luggage to haul around in the jungle; travel light since you will be responsible for carrying all your own gear. The porters are there to carry the food for your group. We suggest you check into a good hotel in Padang and ask them to keep your bags for you.

Equipment Checklist: