Before You Go Checklist

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Wonderful Indonesia.

You can find the latest updates on Lonely Planet Surabaya.

Confirm your booking details and save the contact information of your guide. Having a digital copy of your itinerary saves time during the meet-up. Ensure your travel insurance covers urban walking activities and local medical care. Inform your emergency contacts about your planned route and expected return time.

Download offline maps of the area to avoid data connection issues later. Research the history of the landmarks you will visit during the walk. This mental preparation makes the physical journey much more rewarding and insightful.

• Check current weather forecast for rain or heat
• Download offline maps of the Surabaya city center
• Confirm the tour meeting time with your guide
• Charge all electronic devices and camera batteries fully
• Notify your hotel about your expected return time
• Review local customs and dress code requirements
• Prepare digital copies of your identification documents
• Pre-book your transport to the starting location

On the Day Checklist

Start your morning by hydrating well before you leave your hotel room. The humidity in East Java can be quite intense during the midday sun. Make sure you know how to reach the Surabaya walking tour meeting point early. Traffic in the city can be unpredictable during the busy morning rush.

Wear your most comfortable walking shoes to prevent blisters on the route. Lightweight fabrics will help you stay cool while exploring the historic districts. Apply a generous layer of sunscreen to all exposed skin before heading out. Eat a light breakfast to maintain your energy levels without feeling heavy.

Double check your bag for essential items like cash and identification cards. Keep your phone in a secure but easily accessible pocket for navigation. A small hand towel can be very useful for wiping away sweat. Arrive at the meeting spot ten minutes early to meet your guide.

• Apply high SPF sunscreen to all exposed skin
• Wear lightweight and breathable cotton or linen clothing
• Put on well-fitted and broken-in walking shoes
• Carry a small amount of local cash currency
• Keep your phone in a secure and accessible pocket
• Bring a lightweight umbrella for sun or rain
• Pack a small hand towel for the tropical humidity
• Check your bag for all essential personal items

What to Pack for a Surabaya Walking Tour

Choosing the right gear is essential for an enjoyable urban exploration experience. Your bag should be light enough to carry for several hours. If you prefer independence, consider a Surabaya old town self-guided walking tour route for your trip. This allows you to set your own pace and take breaks.

Always bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Sun protection like hats and high SPF sunscreen are mandatory for tropical climates. Polarized sunglasses can help reduce the intense glare from the city streets. A small portable power bank ensures your phone battery lasts the whole tour.

Pack some light snacks like granola bars to keep your energy up. Hand sanitizer is important for hygiene before eating any local street food. A compact first aid kit with bandages can handle minor foot issues. Keep all these items in a small, breathable daypack for maximum comfort.

• Reusable water bottle with at least one liter capacity
• Portable power bank for charging your mobile phone
• Wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from sun
• Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare from the pavement
• Small bottle of hand sanitizer for quick cleaning
• Compact first aid kit with basic adhesive bandages
• Breathable face mask for dusty or crowded areas
• Light snacks like granola bars or dried fruit

Common Mistakes Checklist

Many travelers forget to carry small denominations of the local currency, Rupiah. Small bills are necessary for buying snacks or using public restrooms. You should also research the expected tips for free walking tours in Surabaya beforehand. Tipping is a kind gesture for guides who provide great local insights.

Avoid wearing heavy denim or dark colors that absorb heat very quickly. Breathable materials like linen or moisture-wicking sports gear work much better here. Do not ignore the signs of dehydration like headaches or dizziness. Many people underestimate how much water they need in the Indonesian humidity.

Another mistake is wearing brand new shoes that have not been broken in. This often leads to painful blisters that can ruin your entire afternoon. Make sure your footwear has been tested on long walks before your trip.

• Wearing new shoes that cause painful foot blisters
• Forgetting to drink water regularly throughout the tour
• Carrying a heavy backpack that causes back strain
• Neglecting to check the local prayer time schedules
• Bringing only large bills that vendors cannot change
• Dressing in heavy fabrics like thick dark denim

Don’t Pack These Items

Carrying too much weight will quickly exhaust you in the Indonesian heat. Leave heavy laptops or bulky professional camera tripods at your hotel. Check out a free walking tour in Surabaya to see what others usually bring. Most participants keep their belongings minimal to move easily through narrow alleys.

Do not pack expensive jewelry or flashy accessories that might attract attention. Simple items are safer and more practical for walking through crowded markets. Avoid bringing large snacks that might melt or get messy in your bag. Leave heavy paper guidebooks behind and use digital versions on your phone.

Bulky umbrellas can be cumbersome to carry in tight city spaces. A small, foldable umbrella or a light poncho is a better choice. Keep your bag light so you can focus on the beautiful surroundings.

• Heavy laptop computers or large tablet devices
• Expensive jewelry that attracts too much local attention
• Bulky professional tripods that hinder your movement
• Multiple heavy books or thick paper travel guides
• Large bottles of perfume or strong smelling colognes
• Uncomfortable formal shoes or high-heeled sandals
• Excessive amounts of heavy metal coins or keys
• Large snacks that might melt in the heat

Checklist for Solo Travelers

Solo explorers need to be extra vigilant about their surroundings and personal safety. Share your live location with a friend before starting your city walk. You might want to learn how to book a free walking tour in Surabaya online. Joining a group is a great way to meet other travelers safely.

Keep a power bank in your bag to ensure your phone stays charged. Navigation apps are vital for finding your way back to your accommodation. Always carry an emergency contact card written in the local Indonesian language. Trust your instincts if a situation or location feels uncomfortable during the walk.

Store a backup credit card in a separate place from your main wallet. This ensures you have funds available if your primary wallet is lost. Stay in well-lit and populated areas when exploring the city on your own.

• Personal safety whistle for emergency signaling purposes
• Emergency contact card written in the local language
• Small mirror for checking surroundings discreetly
• Backup credit card stored separately from your wallet
• Fully updated travel insurance details and policy numbers
• Translation app with Indonesian language packs downloaded
• List of local emergency service telephone numbers
• Small notebook and pen for writing down directions