Proper packing is crucial in every trip. If you are going to Ecuador’s Mainland or traveling to the Galapagos Islands, we suggest making a list of must-haves to ensure you have everything you need.
These destinations have unique geographical features that require careful consideration when packing for a trip. Mainland Ecuador has varying altitudes and Amazon forests, while the Galapagos Islands offer plenty of water activities. Understanding these regions’ distinct dry and wet seasons will help you choose the proper clothing, gear, and essentials.
We are sharing our packing list below to help you enjoy your time in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
Medicines
You will never know what can happen on your trip, so make sure you always have medicines on hand. If you are taking prescribed medicines, bring them with you with your doctor’s prescription.
Using a travel pill case is a great way to keep your medications organized and accessible during your trip. Having everything neatly arranged in one place made it so much easier for me to manage my daily medications and supplements. Plus, it’s compact enough to toss into your carry-on or day bag, ensuring that you’re prepared no matter where your adventures take you. We have listed some must-have meds for your Ecuador trip.
Chlorophyll
Chlorophyll is definitely a game-changer for adjusting to high altitudes! I made sure to start taking ChlorOxygen a week before my trip, and it really helped me handle the altitude better, especially when visiting places like Quito and Cotopaxi National Park. Whether you choose the pill, liquid, or powder form, having this supplement on hand can make all the difference, minimizing any discomfort and making your experience much more enjoyable. It’s something I highly recommend if you’re planning to explore Ecuador’s higher elevations!
Motion Sickness Bracelets or Pills
Motion sickness bracelets or pills are definitely a lifesaver for boat rides between the Galapagos islands. We noticed several fellow travelers struggling with nausea during those bumpy trips, and I was glad we came prepared with motion sickness remedies. Having them on hand really helped us avoid any discomfort and allowed us to fully enjoy the boat rides without any interruptions. If you’re prone to motion sickness or even slightly unsure, packing these will make a big difference in your Galapagos adventure!
Anti-diarrheal
I’d definitely recommend packing anti-diarrheal medicines for Ecuador and the Galapagos—trust me, they can be a lifesaver! With the different water sources, new types of food, and unfamiliar bacteria, there’s always a chance for an upset stomach. Having these meds on hand gave us peace of mind; we knew we were prepared for any unexpected digestive issues, so we could relax and fully enjoy each day of the trip.
Water Bottle with Filter
A water bottle with a filter was one of our essentials for Ecuador and the Galapagos, and it turned out to be a great choice. Since drinking tap water isn’t an option, this bottle allowed us to refill confidently, even in remote spots. Not only did it save us from hunting down bottled water constantly, but it also helped us cut down on single-use plastic—something we felt was especially important in such a beautiful, fragile environment. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in both convenience and sustainability.
Mini First Aid Box
Having a mini first aid kit on hand was essential for our trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Given the number of high-altitude trails we planned to hike, we wanted to be prepared for any minor injuries or health-related issues that could pop up along the way. Our kit included essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and pain relievers—perfect for handling scrapes, cuts, or any unexpected discomforts that come up during a day out in nature.
We also packed personal medications, including allergy meds and remedies for headaches and stomach upset, knowing that the change in altitude and diet can sometimes affect us. Additionally, I found it helpful to carry essential health information with us, like emergency contacts and insurance details. With everything organized in one compact box, we felt prepared for whatever the trip threw at us, letting us focus fully on the adventure.
Vitamins
Packing a few essential vitamins gave us peace of mind on our trip, especially considering the energy we needed for hikes and excursions. While we tried to eat balanced meals, the local diet and the occasional grab-and-go food options made vitamins a helpful way to support our immune systems and bridge any nutritional gaps.
Before traveling, we consulted with a doctor to find the best options tailored to our needs and double-checked any import regulations for bringing supplements into Ecuador. This small step made a big difference, keeping us energized and ready for the adventures that awaited.
Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen/Aspirin
Packing a few pain relievers like Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, and Aspirin proved invaluable during our travels. Long hikes and adventurous outings sometimes led to minor aches, muscle soreness, or the occasional headache, so having these on hand was a lifesaver. They also came in handy for relieving inflammation after a long day of exploring.
These simple over-the-counter options offered peace of mind, letting us focus on enjoying each experience without the worry of minor discomforts holding us back.
Sleep Aid Medicine
Bringing along a sleep aid was a smart move for us during our Ecuador and Galapagos adventure. Adjusting to a new time zone and the thrill of each day’s plans sometimes made winding down at night a challenge. Having a gentle sleep aid on hand helped ensure we were well-rested and ready to embrace each day’s activities.
Whether it was to adjust to the new rhythm or simply to catch up on sleep, this little addition to our travel kit made a difference.
Bandaids
Band-aids were a lifesaver on our trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. With so many outdoor adventures—from hiking rocky trails to snorkeling and exploring volcanic islands—it’s easy to end up with the occasional scrape or blister. Having these adhesive strips ready in our first-aid kit meant we could quickly patch up any minor injuries and keep going without a hitch.
Safety and Personal Protection
Safety was a top priority for us on our trip to Ecuador’s mainland. Knowing that crime rates are higher in bigger cities, we took some extra steps to stay secure and keep our belongings safe. In the Galapagos Islands, however, we felt completely at ease. The islands have a reputation for being among the safest places globally, offering a peaceful environment that allowed us to relax without worry.
Here are some of the essential items we packed and a few tips we followed to ensure a secure and carefree experience during our time on the mainland.
Anti-theft bag or Cross Body Purse
Having an anti-theft bag or a sturdy cross-body purse proved invaluable for us in Ecuador, especially in the busier cities where pickpocketing can happen. These bags are equipped with helpful features like slash-resistant straps and hidden zippers, which kept our essentials secure and out of sight. It was reassuring to know our belongings were safe, allowing us to focus on exploring without constantly worrying about our valuables.
Travel belt
A travel belt was essential for me in Ecuador, where cash is often preferred. Keeping my cash securely tucked away in the belt gave me peace of mind, knowing it was both hidden and safely on me. With the belt, I could explore Ecuador’s lively streets with confidence, reducing worries about theft or accidental loss. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep essentials secure while immersing yourself in the local culture.
Door Stop Alarm
Door-stop alarms turned out to be a smart addition to my travel gear, especially when staying in less-secured accommodations in Ecuador. Luckily, we didn’t need it in our room most nights. However, one night, I heard someone fiddling with the main entrance outside. I quickly set up the door-stop alarm, and its piercing noise immediately scared the intruder away. It’s such a small, unassuming device but incredibly effective for added peace of mind on the road!
Portable Travel Safe
A portable travel safe became one of our go-to items during our trip. Since some of our accommodations didn’t provide safes, it offered peace of mind knowing our valuables—like cash, electronics, and important documents—were securely stowed away while we were out exploring. It’s a practical little investment that let us focus on enjoying the trip without the constant worry about the security of our things.
Get VPN on your laptop and phone.
During our trip, I had a pretty eye-opening conversation with the guy selling us SIM cards. He explained how connecting to some Ecuadorian routers could expose personal information to hackers—something I hadn’t really considered before. Using a VPN became essential, as it encrypted our internet connection and protected our data. Plus, with Surfshark VPN (which I’ve relied on for years for its affordability and effectiveness), we could still access our favorite shows from home on Netflix, which made our downtime feel a bit more like home.
Luggage Locks
Luggage locks were a must-have for us during the trip. Whether staying at hotels, using airport baggage services, or even when we had to leave our bags unattended for short periods, having those locks in place gave us peace of mind. We made sure to choose sturdy, TSA-approved locks, which not only kept our belongings secure but also ensured a smoother experience during airport checks.
Pocket Knife
A pocket knife proved to be incredibly handy for us in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Its compact size and versatility made it useful in various situations, from opening food packages on hikes to cutting rope or branches when needed. Having this multi-purpose tool gave us an added layer of convenience during our travels, especially in more remote areas where resources can be limited.
Protection Against Insects and Sun
Mosquito Repellent
A reliable mosquito repellent was a must-have on our Ecuador trip, especially in the Amazon regions where the bugs can be relentless. We applied it daily to keep mosquito bites at bay, minimizing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses and making our time in the rainforest far more comfortable. The repellent truly became an essential part of our outdoor routine, letting us enjoy the incredible nature without worrying too much about bites.
Sunscreen
Bringing reef-friendly sunscreen was essential on our Galapagos trip to protect the delicate marine ecosystem. Choosing an “ocean-safe” option gave us peace of mind knowing we weren’t harming the vibrant underwater world we came to admire. For mainland Ecuador, especially in the high-altitude regions, we found a high SPF sunscreen absolutely necessary. The sun is intense, so we made sure to use a broad-spectrum option that protected us from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s something we reapplied frequently, allowing us to fully enjoy the trip without any painful sunburns.
Clothing & Footwear
When packing clothing for Ecuador, it’s essential to consider the variety of climates you’ll encounter, depending on where your journey takes you. For our two-week adventure on Ecuador’s mainland, we experienced everything from sweltering heat at sea level with temperatures reaching 35°C, to the freezing cold at 5000m altitude, where it dropped to -2°C. It was quite a range to prepare for! After that, we headed to the Galapagos Islands for another two weeks, where the weather was more tropical and pleasant.
This made packing quite the balancing act, as we needed lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm, low-altitude areas, and layered, insulated items for the cooler, high-altitude destinations.
To help you understand what clothing to bring, we have listed all the clothes we packed during our Ecuador trip.
- Rain Jacket Essential for high altitudes and unpredictable weather, opt for a Gore-Tex rain jacket.
- Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes: Provide comfort and protection for various terrains and weather conditions.
- Warm Hat and Gloves: Prepare for chilly temperatures, especially on volcano summits.
- Pants: Pack both casual and hiking pants for versatility.
- Shorts: Ideal for warmer climates and leisure activities.
- Short/Long-Sleeved Shirts: Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts for layering and adapting to changing temperatures.
- Underwear and Sports Bra.
- Sun Hat with Brim: Shield yourself from the strong Ecuadorian sun.
- Jacket, Sweater, Windbreaker: Layering options for variable weather conditions.
- Belt.
- Swimming Suits/Shorts: Enjoy beach days or water activities.
- Casual Sneakers: Comfortable footwear for exploring towns and cities.
- Flip Flops: Perfect for relaxing and beach outings.
Electronics
- Portable Chargers: Keep your electronic devices powered up on the go.
- Ecuador Power Adapter: Ensure compatibility with the local electrical outlets. The power plug sockets in Ecuador are type A and B. The standard voltage in the country is 120 volts, with a frequency of 60 Hz.
- All Chargers: Bring chargers for all your electronic devices (phones, cameras, etc.).
- Underwater Camera: A must-have for capturing unforgettable moments in the Galapagos Islands. I highly recommend getting a GoPro or try a cheaper camera but it’s a must-have to pack for your memories!
Miscellaneous
- Mask defog: Prevent fogging of your snorkel or dive mask for clear underwater vision.
- Dry Bag: Keep your belongings safe and dry during water activities or rainy conditions.
- Underwater Camera or Waterproof Phone Case: Capture incredible underwater moments in the Galapagos Islands.
- Snorkeling Kit: Bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer to ensure comfort and familiarity.
- Travel Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying, ideal for beach visits and water adventures.
- Download Spanish Translator on Google Translate: Have a handy language tool to aid communication during your trip.
What Not To Bring to Galapagos & Ecuador
When packing for your trip to Galapagos and Ecuador, it’s also essential to be mindful of certain restrictions and consider what not to bring. Here are some items you should consider leaving at home.
Restricted Items in Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands have strict regulations to preserve their unique ecosystem, and for good reason. To help protect the islands’ natural beauty, avoid bringing any seeds, plants, or organic materials, as these could unintentionally introduce non-native species. Before our trip, we made sure to research these regulations, which included cleaning our shoes and gear to remove any organic residue.
Following these guidelines is essential for anyone visiting the Galapagos, as it ensures we can all play a part in safeguarding one of the most pristine environments on Earth.
High-Heel Boots
Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and rugged terrain make high-heel boots impractical for exploring. With everything from cobblestone streets to mountainous paths, we found that comfortable, sturdy footwear like hiking shoes or sneakers was the way to go. They gave us the support and comfort needed for those long days of adventure, and we were glad to leave the heels behind!
Expensive Jewelry or Luxury Items
Leaving expensive jewelry and luxury items at home was a smart move for us while traveling in Ecuador. Not only did it reduce the risk of attracting unwanted attention, but it also gave us peace of mind. Instead, we stuck to simple, low-key accessories, which allowed us to focus on enjoying our adventures without any added worry. Prioritizing safety over style can make all the difference!
Winter Clothing
Ecuador’s diverse climate means that packing smart, versatile layers worked best for us. We didn’t bother with bulky winter clothing, even when visiting higher altitudes like the Andes. Instead, we packed lighter items like fleece jackets, rainproof shells, and thermal base layers, which helped us adjust to the shifting temperatures between regions. This made our trip much more comfortable and kept our luggage manageable!
Conclusion
Packing wisely is key to making the most of your journey to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. With the country’s diverse climates and the Galapagos’ unique environmental regulations, having the right essentials makes all the difference. I found that being mindful of each destination’s specific needs helped me feel prepared and allowed for a more enjoyable and stress-free experience. Whether it’s layered clothing for changing weather, reef-safe sunscreen, or anti-theft gear for city stops, smart packing enhances both comfort and safety while exploring these extraordinary places.
