As a traveler, people often ask me about my favorite trip. And the fun part is that I don’t need to think about it. The first place and always on the forefront of my mind was the Galapagos trip.
There are several reasons for it, but for now, I’m here to tell you all you need to pack for your trip to the Galapagos Islands.
Before you start packing, there is one thing you need to ask yourself. What is the purpose of my Galapagos Islands trip? Suppose you want to show it all to the world. You will probably need different sets of camera gear, including an underwater camera.
But that is just an example of what I am about to tell you.
Here, I will list all the packing tips I learned firsthand. Take note of the essentials you need to survive the island heat and have the perfect holiday.
Galapagos Trip Packing List
- Different Pair of Shoes
- Snorkeling gear
- Camera equipment
- Important Documents
- Clothes
- Sunblock and Repellents
- Currency
- Motion Sickness Medication
- Well-Built Suitcase
- Backpack
Different Pair of Shoes
Galapagos Islands is a set of different terrain. When I was planning my trip to Galapagos, a friend of mine told me about this.
At first, I didn’t understand anything, but when I placed my foot on the Galapagos Islands, I required no more explanation.
You will see water, burning sandy beaches, rocky mountains, and much more. All of these require you to wear different types of shoes.
For example, you will need flip-flops while you are at the beach. Make sure they have a thick sole, as the sand can sometimes be hot.
But that is for when you land straight on the beach. I did not take any water shoes, and when my guide told me about the wet landing, I felt stupid for not packing those. Water shoes not only help in wet landings but are also helpful for dry landings.
Moreover, include a pair of walking shoes or regular hiking shoes. These are the only shoes you will use most during your trip.
Snorkeling Gear
If you want to catch a glimpse of marine life during your Galapagos trip, pack your own snorkeling equipment. You can cut out on renting expenses when you bring your gear.
Moreover, snorkeling is something you must experience in Galapagos. It is essential during the warm and wet season.
I honestly love snorkeling, and it was the one thing I was desperate to use in my luggage. Galapagos adventure is incomplete without snorkeling and scuba diving.
Camera Equipment
If you want to capture the beauty of the Galapagos Islands, add your camera equipment to the Galapagos packing list. You will use your camera almost everywhere. And if it is a waterproof camera, I believe your trip will be the best.
While I was in Galapagos, I forgot to pack my underwater camera. And when I went snorkeling, I knew I would never forgive myself for not packing it.
Whether on Santa Cruz Island or watching Galapagos wildlife, a camera will always be helpful. Moreover, do not forget extra batteries.
Apart from that, always keep your camera cleaning kit handy. Sometimes things can get messy, and you will need to clean your camera often.
Important Documents
Many people don’t think about bringing their travel insurance documents. And that is what I consider a foolish act. You must always protect yourself, especially when you are in an unfamiliar land.
Not to mention, the Galapagos Islands are known for their wildlife—bugs, and insects included. So it is better to get your travel insurance before leaving for your trip.
Other than that, ensure that all your important documents are with you.
For example, your passport, ticket, snorkeling certificate (scuba diving and snorkeling both require certificates), and visa (if there is a requirement).
These are just examples. If you think any other document is essential, do not hesitate to bring it along or have a copy in hand.
Clothes
My essential Galapagos packing list gives tremendous importance to clothes. Not only because I love to look my best but also because they are an essential part of the ultimate Galapagos packing list.
But now, let me distinguish between the cool and dry seasons. Suppose you are visiting during the dry season.
The one thing you must pack for the Galapagos trip is a sun hat. You will need it almost everywhere.
Pack light shirts with or without sleeves as it can get very hot on the island. You do not want to risk getting a heat stroke, especially if you are not used to humid weather.
Moreover, you can also use light long-sleeve shirts if you do not want to get sunburned during your walks.
For cold weather, it is best to pack a light sweater. A light jacket is also a great option.
The weather isn’t particularly cold, so the lighter, the better. Other than that, hiking pants must be in your luggage.
Bathing suits are also a requirement, whether you visit during the cold or dry season.
Sunblock and Repellents
Galapagos is located near the equator, so expect sunny, hot, and humid weather. So even if you are not at the beach, the need for sunblock won’t vanish. Instead, I urge you to apply sunblock whenever you can.
I took two bottles of good-quality sunblock, and many of my group members frequently used it. When you plan to have beach activities, then use a high SPF and waterproof sunblock.
Other than that, a repellent spray will come in handy. The island is home to several types of insects. So it is better to apply a repellent spray to your skin and save yourself from many bug bites and rashes.
Do not forget after sun care! Aloe vera gel is a savior for people who get easily sunburned, such as myself. Aloe vera gel will also be of great use for bug bites.
Currency
Mainland Ecuador uses the same currency as the USA. So if you are traveling from somewhere other than America, it is great to have a few dollars.
Even if you are an American, I recommend you always keep some cash with you.
ATMs are available on the San Cristobal Islands. However, there could be some unforeseen issues such as broken ATMs or limits that do not meet your requirements.
So it is best to have cash with you. This will save you a lot of trouble, I promise.
Motion Sickness Medication
Please keep the medication in your luggage, whether you have motion sickness or not.
Your Galapagos cruise ships will most likely have these medications. But in case you need them somewhere else, it is best to pack them in your travel gear.
Well-Built Suitcase
To top it all off, you need a suitcase to pack everything. I did not give much importance to the suitcase and had to buy myself a new one in the Galapagos Islands.
Your suitcase will face a lot of slaps and pushes on its way to the Galapagos Islands. So you need a well-built suitcase that can easily manage a few falls.
Moreover, it should have wheels, as you do not want to carry that much weight all the time.
Backpack
Apart from the suitcase, you will need a shoulder bag, which you will frequently use during your trip. It must be of average size, so you can fit almost everything you need in it.
I also took a dry bag along to the Galapagos Islands. It was a relief. It is something I’m proud of.
A dry bag will be of great use when you need to make wet landings. You can keep your gadgets and camera equipment in it and prevent water damage.
Other Essentials for Galapagos Islands
Now that the packing list is coming to an end, I would like to mention a few small things you must pack for the Galapagos. However, you can exclude a few if you do not want to bring them along.
A water bottle is something you can get on most cruise ships. South America is known for its hospitality, but I recommend taking your water bottle.
This way, you won’t have to buy any plastic water bottles. Water bottles can incur an additional cost, so if you are conscious about your budget, bring a refillable water bottle.
Other than that, your binoculars will help you during your Galapagos vacation. You will thank me once you get to any of the inhabited islands.
Walking sandals are also great while you stroll around the four inhabited islands. A beach towel won’t be necessary, as hotels and cruise ships provide them, but you can bring your own just in case.
But whatever you do, make sure not to exceed your luggage limit. You sure don’t want to pay the excess baggage fees. Hence, packing light is essential. However, leave space for your souvenirs!
Conclusion
A trip to the Galapagos Islands requires excellent packing. No matter how beautiful the island is, a suitcase that lacks the necessities will ruin your trip to some extent.
From medicines to shoes, I made sure to discuss all the essentials. So learn from my experience before packing for your upcoming trip. Enjoy the scenery, weather, and food, and savor the experience! Make sure you get the most out of your Galapagos Islands trip!
