Ultimate Galapagos Packing Guide: Essentials for an Awesome Adventure

The Galapagos Islands are a bucket list trip for many, and for good reason. Where else can you lounge on black and red sand beaches alongside sunbathing sea lions, spot blue-footed boobies doing their awkward mating dance, and snorkel with penguins and sea turtles, all against a backdrop of volcanic landscapes that feel like another planet? This tropical-meets-desert paradise is wild, rugged, and largely untouched by humans, which makes it absolutely enchanting, but also a bit tricky to pack for. 

This trip begs the question: what the heck do you bring? Whether you’re cruising the islands on a yacht or staying on land, your days will be spent in adventure-mode, with some combination of hiking, boating, and snorkeling each day. When I was preparing for my own 8-night cruise, I scoured the internet for packing guides. While some were helpful, none quite answered all of my questions.

That’s why I’ve put together this detailed checklist, straight from my own experience, to help you pack smart, stress less, and avoid that dreaded “why didn’t I bring that?” moment hundreds of miles from mainland Ecuador. 

Read on for my ultimate Galapagos Islands packing list!

Practical Information

Luggage Allowances: For flights into the Galapagos Islands, you’re allowed one checked bag, one carry-on, and one small personal item. Checked bags have a weight limit of 50 pounds, while carry-on bags max out at 22 pounds.

Airports: The primary airport is Seymour Galapagos Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island, with San Cristobal Galapagos Airport (SCY) on San Cristobal Island as the secondary option. 

Baggage Scan: Since the Galapagos Islands are a national park and strictly protected, all luggage goes through an inspection upon arrival, no matter which airport you land at.

What To Pack

Clothing

When it comes to clothes, think loose, lightweight, and comfortable. Basically, things that won’t make you miserable under the equator sun. A wide-brimmed hat or a long-billed cap and a solid pair of sunglasses are non-negotiables to save your face from turning into a tomato. Here’s the full rundown:

• Long-sleeve rash guards x 2
• Activewear T-Shirts x 3
• Activewear tank tops x 2
• Bike shorts x 3
• Light hiking pants x 1
• Pajamas x 1
• Swimsuits x 2-3 – You’ll be in the water pretty much daily
• Sundress x 2-3
• Underwear, Bras, Socks
• Sweatshirt x 1 – It can get breezy at night
• Raincoat – Because tropical weather loves a surprise
• Baseball cap or sunhat
• Sunglasses

Shoes

Your feet are going on an adventure, too, so give them the right gear. Durable hiking sandals will be your MVPs: grippy, supportive, and breathable. I also brought hiking books since I’d just been in the Amazon, and while not a must, I was glad to have them on some of the more muddy, uneven trails.

• Hiking boots or shoes
• Hiking Sandals: I loved these Teva sandals! They’re unisex, quick-dry, lightweight, and easy to slip on and off.
• Swim shoes (optional)
• Flip flops – for the boat, beach, or just shuffling around

Toiletries

Keep it simple, but don’t skip the essentials.

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Reef-safe shampoo & conditioner
• Detangling spray
• Body wash
• Body lotion
• Face wash
• Reef-safe sunscreen: Required in the Galapagos. Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate. The equatorial sun is no joke. 
• Bug spray: Mosquitos aren’t a huge issue here, but pesky biting flies are a thing
• Bandaids
• Hairbrush

Medications

I am a bit of an over-doer when it comes to meds. You probably won’t need it all, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.

• Advil or Ibuprofen
• Prescription meds (bring more than enough)
• Antacids
• Aloe vera gel – for unexpected sunburns
• Allergy medication
• Activated charcoal – just in case of food mishaps
• Dramamine / Bonine / other over-the-counter nausea meds
• Imodium – better safe than sorry!
• Anti-itch cream
• Basic first aid kit

Tech Gear

Keep it lightweight and waterproof when possible.

• Portable phone charger – I’m a fan of Anker power banks
• Outlet Adapter – Ecuador uses type A and B outlets, which are the same as the US
• GoPro – for underwater footage
• Waterproof phone case
• Headphones

Miscellaneous

The “I’m-so-glad-I-packed-this” category.

• Daypack – for daily excursions. Preferably, something lightweight and waterproof. I’m partial to my Osprey Daylite Pack, which has joined me on adventures across multiple continents. 
• Cooling Towels – I loved having this cooling towel with me when the midday heat kicked in
• Reusable Water Bottle – single-use plastic isn’t allowed so BYOB (bring your own bottle)
• Binoculars – not on most packing lists, but SO worth it for wildlife spotting. I brought along a Nikon Prostaff P3.
• Walking stick (optional) – helpful for uneven trails
• Books / E-Reader – great for downtime when you’re off the grid
• Cash – for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases. Ecuador uses US dollars.

Documentation

Don’t leave home without these!

• Passport
• Galapagos Customs Form QR Code – as of December 1, 2024, this is required. It’s an easy online form about any food, gear, or recent farm visits. You can access it here.
• Travel Insurance Documents – not necessary but good to have handy

What to Leave at Home

Stuff You Simply Don’t Need

• Aerosol sprays: Not technically banned, but strongly discouraged. Go eco-friendly with lotions, wipes, solids, or gels – better for the environment, better for you.
• Dressy clothes: The fanciest dress code you’ll encounter is “casual.” Think slacks and a shirt for men, sundresses or a nice top with pants for women. Leave the cocktail attire at home, this goes for shoes as well.
• Makeup: Heat, humidity, and snorkeling aren’t exactly makeup-friendly. If you must, toss in a mascara, but honestly, no one cares what you look like.
• Towels, wetsuits, or snorkeling gear: No need to lug your own, as these are readily provided at hotels and on tours.

Items That Are Actually Restricted

To protect the fragile Galapagos ecosystem, certain items are either banned or heavily regulated. Expect thorough luggage checks before boarding, plane disinfection before landing, and additional screenings upon arrival.

• Fruits, plants, seeds, or animals: These can introduce diseases or invasive species that threaten the islands’ biodiversity. Strictly prohibited.
• Single-use plastics: Disposable plastic bags, disposable plastic bottles, styrofoam containers, and disposable straws have been banned in the Galapagos Islands since 2018. You can, however, bring Ziplock bags.
• Metal-tipped hiking poles: If you really want hiking poles, most cruise lines provide them. If bringing your own, make sure the tips are rubber – metal tips can damage the terrain. 

Less stuff = lighter bags = happier you. Plus, you’re helping preserve one of the most unique places on Earth. Win-win.

Final Thoughts

Did I miss anything? Have tips from your own Galapagos adventure? Drop a comment below and share your insights—I’d love to hear from you!