The Galapagos Islands are mostly uninhabited and far removed from civilization, meaning you won’t find shops in these pristine locations, yet there’s so much to do. That makes packing right essential—you really only have one shot to get it right.
In this guide, we’ve put together a list of must-have items, along with a few helpful suggestions to make your Galapagos adventure as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Clothing
Packing clothes for the Galapagos can be a bit tricky, but we’ve outlined the ideal clothing essentials to bring along.
This list includes only the must-haves and suggested items, so make sure to remember any other essentials you might need to complete your packing!
Packable Down Jackets or Windbreakers
Be sure to bring a warm layer, especially if you’re visiting the Galapagos between June and November when the weather can be cooler. Lightweight down jackets or windbreakers are perfect—they provide warmth, are easy to pack, and can be folded into small, convenient sizes to fit right into your backpack when not in use.
Hiking Pants
Choose breathable hiking shorts and zip-off pants for versatility. The Galapagos, close to the equator, is usually warm and often hot and humid. Shorts are great for comfort on hikes, but long pants can protect you from mosquitoes during certain activities and are also useful in the cooler morning hours, especially if you’re at a higher altitude.
Long Sleeve Shirts
A long-sleeved shirt offers much better protection than a tank top, especially under the strong equatorial sun in the Galapagos. Staying covered helps prevent sunburn, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure rather than dealing with sun damage.
Wool Clothing
In the high-altitude areas of the Galapagos, temperatures can drop unexpectedly, so it’s wise to bring some warm clothing like wool layers. A warmer jacket is also essential for staying comfortable in these cooler mountain spots.
Water Activities Essentials
Swimwear
Pack more than one swimsuit—it’ll make a big difference! With the chance to be in the water both in the morning and afternoon, it’s nice not to have to slip into a wet suit for the next activity. Having a dry one ready to go keeps things comfortable and easy.
Rashguard and Swim Leggings
Long-sleeved swim shirts or rash guards are also highly recommended for your swimming and snorkeling adventures. They offer a little extra warmth and, importantly, protect your skin from the strong sun, letting you enjoy the water without worrying about sunburn.
Snorkel Gear
If you have your own snorkeling, it is nice to bring them to your trip so you would not have to rent.
Dry Bag
Always bring a dry bag when boarding a boat in the Galapagos. You never know when a sudden wave or a playful sea lion might drench your belongings. A dry bag will keep everything, especially your electronics, safe and dry, so you can focus on enjoying the ride without worry.
Footwear
Walking in the Galapagos often means navigating spiky lava and rocky trails, making flip-flops a poor choice for outdoor hikes. Heavy-duty mountaineering boots aren’t ideal either, as the heat can be intense, and you’ll need to stick to marked trails. Lightweight, sturdy hiking shoes are the perfect balance for comfort and protection.
Instead, we recommend packing these shoes for a convenient journey:
- Sturdy, lightweight hiking shoes that you can pair with thin, breathable hiking socks.
- Travel sandals or flip-flops are also recommended which you can use for short walks to the beach or just around the town.
- Water shoes for wet landings and water activities.
Health
If you have any health concerns, be sure to consult your doctor before your trip, and pack any necessary personal medications. Due to the remote nature of the Galapagos Islands, medical services are limited. While most cruise ships provide basic medical care and have a trained health professional on board, it’s essential to come prepared with any specific medications you might need.
A first aid kit is important on every trip. Here are some first aid must-haves for your Galapagos trip:
- Medicine for motion or seasickness
- Medicine for diarrhea such as Imodium or DiaResQ
- Medicine for fever, headaches, and colds
- Adhesive bandages
- Alcohol
- Povidone iodine, or Betadine
Make sure to bring any other medication you need. You must also ensure that your Covid-19 vaccine is up to date. You can view the CDC’s full list of recommended vaccinations for Ecuador here.
Gadgets and Technology
Smartphone
Smartphones have become essential travel companions, especially as they double as cameras. In the Galapagos, however, connectivity is limited, so don’t count on using it for constant emails or social media updates. That said, your smartphone will still be your go-to for capturing amazing photos, so make sure to bring it along!
Camera (GoPro)
Along with my smartphone, I made sure to pack my camera and GoPro for our Galapagos trip. While my phone is great for quick shots, having the GoPro was a game-changer, especially for those underwater moments. It felt reassuring to have extra gear—if my phone’s battery ran low, I didn’t have to worry about missing any special shots. In a place like the Galapagos, every moment feels worth capturing, and it was nice to have a backup plan to keep the memories alive!
Powerbanks and Battery Packs
Portable chargers and power banks are absolute essentials, especially in the Galapagos where you’re outside most of the time. Having these on hand meant I could keep my devices powered up, ready to capture every moment without worrying about running out of battery. It’s a small thing to pack, but it makes a huge difference when you’re off exploring all day.
Adaptors
Ecuador uses 110-120V electricity with plug types A and B, just like in the US. So, if you’re visiting from the States, there’s no need to worry about adapters for your devices. However, travelers from other countries should pack the correct adapter to ensure they can easily charge their electronics and keep everything powered up during their trip.
Accessories and Other Essentials
Be sure to add these items to your Galapagos packing list! Keep in mind that some of these essentials may not be available on the islands, and if they are, they might come with a hefty price tag. It’s best to pack them beforehand to save yourself the hassle and extra expense.
- Sunglasses
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Binoculars
- High SPF sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Sunburn relief treatment or aloe vera gel
- Re-usable water bottle
- Personal toiletries
Currency
Ecuador uses the US dollar, but ATMs are scarce on the Galapagos Islands, located 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast. It’s essential to bring enough cash since, while some places accept credit cards, they often charge a 10% fee per transaction.
Cash is king on the islands, so make sure to withdraw what you’ll need before you go—having enough on hand will save you from the extra hassle and fees.
Anything Else
When packing for a weeklong boat trip around the Galapagos, remember that you’re on remote islands, 600 miles from the nearest continent. If there’s something you absolutely can’t do without, pack it—it may be hard to find once you’re there.
The Galapagos Islands offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and following this packing list will ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and unforgettable adventure.
