What to Pack for the Galapagos Islands: The Complete Checklist
Smart, lightweight packing tips for your trip of a lifetime
Packing for the Galapagos isn’t like packing for your average beach vacation. You’ll be island-hopping, hiking lava trails, snorkeling with sea lions, and spending long days in the sun — sometimes all in one day.
Whether you're taking a cruise or staying in island lodges, this Galapagos packing list will help you bring everything you need — and nothing you don’t.
🧳 The Basics: Essentials for Any Trip
✅ Passport (valid for 6+ months)
✅ Cash in USD (many small vendors don’t accept cards)
✅ Travel insurance info
✅ Transit Control Card ($20) — required at airport before departing mainland Ecuador
✅ Copy of your tour reservation or cruise itinerary
💡 Pro tip: You’ll pay the $100 National Park entrance fee in cash when you arrive.
👕 Clothing: Lightweight, Breathable, Layered
The Galapagos is warm year-round, but weather can shift quickly — especially at sea or in the highlands.
☀️ Daywear
Lightweight shorts or hiking pants (quick-dry)
T-shirts or moisture-wicking tops
Long-sleeved shirt (for sun protection)
Swimsuits (bring two)
Rash guard (especially for snorkeling)
🌥️ Layering + Evenings
Light jacket or fleece (for breezy nights and early mornings)
Packable rain jacket or poncho
Buff or scarf for wind/dust
🧼 Many tours offer laundry service mid-week — pack light and rewear when possible.
🥾 Footwear: Comfort Over Style
Water shoes or sport sandals (for wet landings and beach hikes)
Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners
Flip-flops or casual sandals for town
🕶️ Accessories That Make the Trip Easier
Wide-brimmed hat or cap
Sunglasses (polarized if possible)
Reef-safe sunscreen (required — avoid oxybenzone & octinoxate)
Lip balm with SPF
Reusable water bottle (plastic bottles are banned in the park)
Daypack or dry bag
Quick-dry towel
Binoculars (especially for birdwatchers)
Lightweight waterproof phone case
🦈 You’ll be out for hours at a time — pack for sun, sea, and sweat.
🤿 Gear for Water Activities
Most tours provide basic snorkel gear — but quality can vary. Bring your own if you’re particular.
Mask and snorkel (anti-fog)
Fins (optional if not provided)
Wetsuit (shorty, 2–3mm; especially useful June–November)
Underwater GoPro or waterproof phone pouch
🐬 Many marine experiences are spontaneous — be ready to jump in!
💊 Toiletries + Health
Personal meds (including motion sickness remedies)
Insect repellent (natural preferred — avoid DEET in marine environments)
Basic first-aid: band-aids, blister care, antiseptic wipes
Hand sanitizer + wipes
Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
Shampoo/soap (cruise travelers: bring eco-friendly versions)
📸 Optional (But Worth Packing)
Travel journal
E-reader or lightweight book
Camera with zoom lens
Travel adapter (Ecuador uses U.S.-style plugs)
Snacks (trail mix, protein bars for excursions)
🚫 What Not to Pack
Heavy luggage (wheels don’t roll well on lava rock or beach roads)
Drones (not permitted in the national park)
Plastic bags or single-use plastics (strictly banned)
Fancy clothes — no one’s dressing up here
🌟 Final Tips
Use a soft-sided duffel or backpack — easier to load on boats and buses
Keep your daypack stocked and ready for daily excursions
Don’t overpack! You’ll spend most of your time in swimwear or activewear
🧭 Want a Custom Packing List Based on Your Itinerary?
Every Galapagos trip is different. At Blue Galapagos, we help you prep for exactly where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and how to pack like a pro — without overthinking it.
👉 Start Planning with Blue Galapagos →