Essential Travel Tips

Years of traveling to Langkawi with our children have taught us countless lessons about what works and what does not when visiting this beautiful island with family. This guide compiles our best practical advice to help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your enjoyment.

Best Time to Visit

Langkawi enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but the monsoon seasons significantly impact the visitor experience. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan the ideal trip.

For families, we recommend the November to March window when rainfall is minimal and seas are calm enough for all water activities. December and January see the highest visitor numbers due to school holidays, so book accommodation well in advance if traveling then.

The shoulder months of April, May, and October offer excellent value. Brief afternoon showers rarely disrupt plans, and you will find resorts less crowded. Avoid June through September if beach time is your priority, though this period can work for families happy to spend rainy afternoons at indoor attractions.

Getting There

By Air

Langkawi International Airport receives direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (1 hour), Singapore (1.5 hours), and Penang (30 minutes). Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Firefly operate regular services. Families flying from further afield typically connect through Kuala Lumpur.

The airport is small and manageable with children. Immigration and baggage collection are straightforward, and you will typically be in a taxi within 30 minutes of landing. Pre-book airport transfers through your resort or use the official taxi counter to avoid haggling with drivers.

By Ferry

Ferries connect Langkawi to Kuala Perlis, Kuala Kedah, and Penang on the Malaysian mainland. The journey takes 1-2.5 hours depending on your departure point. Ferries can be a scenic option but add complexity when traveling with young children and luggage.

If you choose the ferry option, book express services where available and arrive early to secure seats together. The crossings can be rough during monsoon season, so have motion sickness remedies ready.

Getting Around the Island

Car Rental

We strongly recommend renting a car for families. The freedom to explore at your own pace, carry beach gear, and avoid the tropical sun while waiting for taxis makes a significant difference to family comfort. Roads are well-maintained and traffic is light outside the main Cenang area.

International driving permits are technically required but rarely checked. Drive on the left, as in the UK. Car rental rates start from approximately 80-120 MYR per day for a basic sedan. Book in advance during peak season.

Taxis and Grab

Taxis operate on fixed fares between zones rather than meters. Agree on the price before starting your journey. The Grab ride-hailing app works on Langkawi and often offers lower prices than taxis, though availability can be limited in remote areas.

Motorbike Rental

While popular with couples and solo travelers, motorbikes are not recommended for families with children. Malaysian traffic can be unpredictable, and the tropical sun makes long rides uncomfortable.

Money Matters

Langkawi is a duty-free island, making it notably cheaper than mainland Malaysia for alcohol, chocolate, cosmetics, and electronics. Take advantage of the savings, but remember import limits when leaving.

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Cards widely accepted

Currency

The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is the local currency. At time of writing, exchange rates are approximately 1 USD = 4.7 MYR, 1 EUR = 5.1 MYR, 1 GBP = 5.9 MYR. Check current rates before traveling.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at resorts, restaurants, and larger shops. ATMs are available throughout Pantai Cenang and at the airport. Smaller establishments, market stalls, and some tour operators prefer cash, so carry some ringgit for daily expenses.

Budget Planning

A rough daily budget for a family of four, excluding accommodation:

• Meals: 150-300 MYR (depending on restaurant choices)
• Activities: 200-400 MYR (one major activity per day)
• Transport: 50-150 MYR (if using taxis/Grab)
• Miscellaneous: 50-100 MYR (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)

Health and Safety

Sun Protection

The tropical sun is intense, especially between 11am and 3pm. Pack high-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe options are better for the environment), wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective swimwear for children. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming.

Mosquitoes

Dengue fever is present in Malaysia, transmitted by mosquitoes that bite during daylight hours. Use insect repellent containing DEET, especially during outdoor activities. Many resorts provide mosquito coils or electric repellents for rooms.

Food and Water

Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water. Ice in tourist establishments is generally safe as it is made from purified water. Street food is delicious but choose stalls that appear busy and maintain visible hygiene standards.

Medical Facilities

Langkawi has a government hospital and several private clinics. For minor issues, pharmacies on Pantai Cenang can provide advice and medication. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical treatment and potential evacuation to Kuala Lumpur for serious conditions.

What to Pack

Clothing

Pack light, breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen work well in the humid climate. Include:

• Swimwear (multiple sets for daily beach/pool use)
• Cover-ups and light layers for air-conditioned spaces
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
• Rain jacket or compact umbrella
• Modest clothing for visiting temples (covering shoulders and knees)

Beach and Pool Essentials

• Reef-safe sunscreen (high SPF for children)
• Rash guards for extended sun protection
• Beach toys and inflatable armbands
• Waterproof phone case
• Snorkeling gear (or rent on arrival)
• Cooler bag for beach snacks

For Children

• Favorite comfort items for travel days
• Entertainment for flights and car journeys
• Snacks from home if children are fussy eaters
• Swim diapers for babies and toddlers
• Portable high chair or booster seat if needed

Cultural Considerations

Malaysia is a multicultural country with a Muslim majority. While Langkawi is tourist-oriented and relatively relaxed, respecting local customs enhances your experience:

• Dress modestly when visiting mosques, temples, or local villages
• Remove shoes before entering religious buildings and many homes
• Use your right hand for giving and receiving items
• Ask permission before photographing local people
• During Ramadan, be discreet when eating in public during daylight hours

Saving Money

Accommodation

Book directly with resorts for potential upgrades and package deals. Consider apartments or villas for longer stays, which offer kitchen facilities that reduce dining costs. Traveling during shoulder season can reduce rates by 30-50 percent.

Dining

Alternate between resort restaurants and local eateries. Night markets offer delicious local food at fraction of restaurant prices. Many resorts provide free or discounted children's meals.

Activities

Book tours directly with operators rather than through resorts for better rates. Combine multiple attractions into single trips to reduce transport costs. Many natural attractions like beaches and waterfalls are free to visit.

Useful Contacts

• Emergency Services: 999
• Tourist Police: +60 4 966 8322
• Langkawi Hospital: +60 4 966 3333
• Tourism Malaysia: www.tourism.gov.my