What should I take?

Hi,

I'm going to Vanuatu in January and am trying to sort out the practicalities of what to bring, given that there will be a 10kg baggage limit on the internal Air Vanuatu flights! I will, at this stage, be visiting Efate, Tanna and Espiritu Santo. I would appreciate any advice.

Although I love the idea of camping, I am assuming that it would be impractical in the middle of cyclone/rainy/malaria season, so I can probably do without my tent. Is this right? Is there always somewhere to hook up a mozzie net, or would I be better off with a self standing (heavier) mozzie dome. Would it be worthwhile to bring a sleeping mat? I have been told that the weather will be warm, but I'm still a little paranoid about being cold! How cold does it get at night? Do a need a light sleeping bag?

Thanks in anticipation!

Sally

I carried 20kg baggage on 2 air Vanuatu flights (Malekula - Espiritu Santo and Espiritu Santo - Pentecost) and they didn't even charge me extra.

I wouldn't bother bringing a tent as locals will always be happy to put you up in their house. I didn't bring a sleeping mat and was usually provided one. At night I always just wore a hooded mosquito net jacket that covers your whole upper boddy and face and is very light. I would definitely bring a sleeping bag though if you're going to be trekking in the mountains as it does get quite cold up there at night.

Thanks so much for taking the time to respond. I really appreciate the advice!

Sally

It is really important, if you are travelling outside the tourist areas, and not staying in resorts, to wear modest clothing. If you are a woman, that usually means a skirt that covers to legs to below the knees, or at least a sarong that will do the same. This is in respect of local custom, and will also ensure you are treated with respect by the locals.
I would agree that a tent is not necessary - all land belongs to someone, and you would need the chief's permission to camp. Then they will offer you a bed in a local house. A sarong can double as a bed cover in warmer places, but if you are travlling by local boat overnight, a sleeping mat can be useful.
One warning - many local people return to their villages for the summer holidays, (Christmas and January) so village accommodation may be tight.

The only times a tent might come handy is in touristy places, where locals may expect you to stay in a local guesthouse, which may well charge a lot more for a room than for tentspace.
I camped at Lonnoc on Santo for example, for 500VT instead of 3000+.

Thanks,

I will make sure I bring some long skirts! Are T-shirts OK, or should arms be covered up as well?

Sally

T-shirts are perfectly fine, local women almost never cover their arms, just shoulders.

Thanks, I will leave out my tank tops!

Sally

I wouldn't be too worried about tank tops - I tend to go sleeveless all the time in Solomon Islands - T-shirts with sleeves can be too hot. In Melanesia, people worry about the top half of the leg, much more than the top half of the body.

Thanks, I will get out my 'Arnhemland wardrobe' for this trip, because it sounds like the dress code is similar!