Malaysia comes on the list of unique and special places in the world to visit because of its diversity, religions, and cultures. You can explore different things in a country, such as thriving, modern cities, colonial architecture, different cultures and religions, mouthwatering food; and the world’s most beautiful beaches and lush green forests. Everything makes your journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, make sure you read these travel tips and guides for Malaysia. This guide will help you to make the most of your trip to Malaysia.
Let’s start
Before You Start Your Trip:
Here are the following things you should take care of before exploring Malaysia.
Malaysia Has A Tropical Climate, So Pack Accordingly
If you haven’t searched about it, let me tell you guys that Malaysia has a tropical climate, which means there is no winter. It’s warm and wet. It can be very hot on some days, or very humid on rainy or sunny days. The annual temperature in Malaysia is around 28- 31ºC. Therefore, if you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, you should pack lightweight and breathable cotton clothing that works best for the tropical climate. Be sure to put on sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Make Sure You Are Fully Vaccinated—It’s Good For You And For Others.
Vaccination is important no matter where you’re going. Before you plan your trip, go to your doctor or travel doctor and get a proper health checkup and vaccination certificate. Vaccination certificates may be required at the airport or other places, so bring it along.
Wisely Choose The Platform for Trip Planning
There are various online platforms available for trip planning. You can get help from the experts and you can manage your trip planning easier. Do your research for options or you can ask your friends if they can suggest to you the best trip planner like MakeMyTrip or another. Many trip planners like MakeMyTrip offer huge discounts or Valentine’s day gift cards.
Don’t Forget to Bring Your Documents
Whenever you visit other countries, (especially from India to Foreign), you have to go through a check post. Hence, it is advisable to take your essential documents with you on paper or digitally on your phone. It will make your trip go on.
Check If You Need A Visa For Malaysia
Malaysia has no strict immigration process for travelers compared to other countries. Still, we advise you to check in advance what policy applies to your nationality. Do you need a visa for Malaysia? Don’t worry, it’s very easy. You can find a quick overview of Malaysia’s visa policy here. Or if you are still not sure about this, you can directly contact your local Malaysian consulate or embassy for more information.
Get Malaysian Currency (Malaysian Ringgit) Before You Leave
Of course, you need money to make the most of your trip. So make sure you exchange your currency before you leave for the trip. You can exchange currency at banks and at currency exchange desks; they can give you the best exchange rates and do not charge any extra fees. Or you can also exchange your cash at banks, at a hotel, or at the airport, but we advise you to do it before you leave for the trip.
Other Small Things You Should Pack Before You Board on Flight for Malaysia
Keep your small essentials, power bank, travel adaptor, money belt, and quick dry towel with you.
- Pack a basic (or not so basic) first-aid kit.
- Buy comprehensive travel insurance.
- Keep your friends and family updated.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Get sunscreen and a water bottle.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip When You’re in Malaysia
Follow the below tips and make it your most memorable and enjoyable trip to Malaysia.
Learn the Local Malay Language or You Can Also use English Language
To make the most of your trip, you should know a few sentences in Malay. However, English is widely used in Malaysia, so you won’t have any issues. But in rural areas, locals can only say simple phrases like “How are you?” or “Thank you.” Apart from these, you can also gesture to communicate with them with a smile on your face. You can try to learn some basic sentences to use in Malaysia here.
Join Communities
You will find many travelers and locals who share their experiences and love for Malaysian culture through events and programs. You can connect with them via hostels that organize many programs such as food tours, city tours, hiking, nightlife, and other fun.
Do not Bring or Take Drugs in Malaysia
Malaysia has one of the harshest punishments in the world for drug possession. There are high fines and jail time for drug offenses. Hence, stay away from drugs in Malaysia, and before traveling, make sure you check your luggage and bags properly to ensure that there are no suspicious substances.
Get the Required Equipment for Hiking in Rainforests and Mountains
Malaysia has beautiful rainforests and mountains for hiking. To make the most of it, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring hiking shoes, a trekking pole, and a rain jacket.
Ask Before Giving Tips
There is no need to give extra tips to taxi drivers, waiters, or others. Many restaurants, pubs, and bars charge service charges along with GST on top of your bill. If you still want to give them tips for their great service, you should ask them before giving tips.
Tip for LGBTQ Community
The LGBTQ community is banned in Malaysia by federal law. However, it may get changed over time. Therefore, it is advisable not to reveal your relationship in public to avoid conflicts and issues.
Tips to Save Money in Malaysia While Exploring the Most
Going to Malaysia isn’t going to empty your bank accounts. Here are the following travel tips you can follow to save more money in Malaysia.
You can join a free walking tour in Kuala Lampur.
Avoid taxis or Uber. You can use public transport to save money on travel.
Local streets or hawker stalls have delicious food at very low prices. Try these local street foods for yourself or for your friend’s group, and you can save a lot of money on food.
Malaysia has high rates of alcohol; so it’s best to avoid it.
Malaysia has various free places, such as Perdana Botanical Garden in Kuala Lumpur and Buddhist temples in Penang. Also, Kuala Lumpur has multiple affordable hotels to stay at.
Don’t forget to take advantage of Couchsurfing. Couchsurfing helps you to explore Malaysia and connects you with local Malaysians. You can even live with a local host for free.