What to Pack for the Galapagos Islands: The Complete Packing List
Packing for the Galapagos requires a little more thought than a typical beach holiday. Luggage allowances on flights from mainland Ecuador are 23kg (50lb) per person, and inter-island flights are sometimes stricter, so every item has to earn its place.
This guide covers exactly what to bring, what we provide, and what is strictly prohibited by the Galapagos National Park.
✅ Quick-Reference Packing Checklist
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts
- Long cargo pants
- Swimwear (2–3 sets)
- UV-protective swimwear top
- Teva or Chaco-style sports sandals
- Warm fleece or jumper
- Light waterproof jacket or poncho
- Reef-safe, mineral sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Sun hat with brim
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- DEET-free insect repellent
- Motion sickness tablets
- Small headlamp or torch
- Camera
- Travel adapter (US plug, Type A/B)
- Basic medications & first aid
Provided by Galapagos Safari Camp: Reusable water bottle, Wetsuit, Mask, Fins, Snorkeling equipment
What to Pack for the Galapagos: Item by Item
1. Comfortable, Lightweight, Sun-Protective Clothing
The Galapagos is warm year-round and most activities are reasonably active, e.g. hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting. Lightweight, long-sleeved cotton or linen shirts and long cargo pants are the smartest choice. They protect against the equatorial sun, the occasional insect, and scratchy plant without overheating you. Avoid jeans and tight-fitting synthetic fabrics. Damp denim on a hot afternoon is deeply unpleasant.
Pack three to four outfits that mix and match easily. Quick-dry fabrics are a genuine advantage here.
2. Good Walking Shoes or Sports Sandals
Most visitor sites in the Galapagos National Park involve uneven volcanic terrain. Heavy hiking boots are unnecessary. Teva or Chaco-style sports sandals are the most popular footwear. They dry quickly after wet landings, provide enough grip for lava trails, and are adequate for gentle hikes. Bring one pair of comfortable closed-toe shoes for the evenings.
3. Swimwear
Pack two or three swimsuits so you always have a dry set available. Add at least one long-sleeved UV-protective rashguard or swim top. Your back and shoulders are especially vulnerable to sunburn during snorkeling sessions.
Provided by Galapagos Safari Camp: Wetsuits, masks, and fins are provided for all snorkeling and diving excursions. Guests who prefer to use their own equipment are of course welcome to bring it.
4. Warm Fleece and Light Waterproof Jacket
From July to December, the Garúa (cool, dry season) brings slightly lower temperatures and misty mornings, particularly in the Santa Cruz highlands where Galapagos Safari Camp is located. A warm fleece and a windbreaker are worth packing regardless of when you travel: speedboat rides can be chilly, especially after snorkeling, and sudden showers are possible, especially during the warm, wet season. A compact waterproof poncho takes up almost no luggage space.
5. Casual Wear for Evenings
The dress code at camp is relaxed and informal. A fleece or jumper are ideal for evenings during the cooler months. No formal clothing is needed.
6. Sun Protection
The Galapagos sits directly on the equator. The UV index is extreme, shade on the uninhabited islands is minimal, and the reflective effect of water amplifies exposure during snorkeling. Bring high-SPF (50+) mineral sunscreen, quality UV-blocking sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed sun hat.
🚫 Important restriction: Sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate are prohibited in the Galapagos — these chemicals have been shown to harm marine ecosystems. Use mineral-based (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sunscreens only.
7. DEET-Free Insect Repellent
Generally horseflies and mosquitos are not problematic in the Galapagos. That is not to say the islands are free of them.
The most effective protection is covering up with long sleeves and trousers. For moments when that isn’t practical, pack a small, eco-friendly insect repellent that does not contain DEET. Products based on citronella or picaridin are widely available and effective.
Malaria is not present in the Galapagos.
8. Reusable Water Bottle (Provided)
Staying hydrated in the equatorial heat is essential. Single-use plastic bottles are banned across the Galapagos Islands. Every guest at Galapagos Safari Camp is given a high-quality reusable water bottle upon arrival.
9. Small Flashlight or Headlamp
The Camp is set within nature, away from bright artificial lighting, in alignment with our Dark Sky Conservation policy.
A compact headlamp is useful for navigating between tents after dark. Flashlights are also available on request at camp, or during a fuller moon, you can navigate by the remarkably beautiful Galapagos night sky!
10. Motion Sickness Tablets
Water crossings between some islands can be rough, especially during the cooler season (July to December). Those prone to sea sickness may benefit from having some motion sickness tablets to hand.
11. Camera
Wildlife in the Galapagos is famously fearless. Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and marine iguanas often come within arm’s reach. You do not necessarily need an expensive camera or telephoto lens. A smartphone camera or a compact point-and-shoot will capture extraordinary images here. That said, the Galapagos are a photographer’s paradise, and we wouldn’t want to stop you from bringing your go-to equipment. Just make sure it’s well protected against sea water and humidity.
A waterproof camera or housing is also useful for underwater encounters.
12. Travel Adapter
The Galapagos Islands use US-style plugs (Type A/B, 110V). Guests travelling from the UK, Europe, Australia, or elsewhere will need a universal travel adapter to charge devices.
13. Basic Medications and First Aid
Pack a small personal kit: any prescription medications, antihistamines, pain relief, blister plasters, and any digestive remedies you typically carry when travelling. While basic supplies are available on the islands, your choices will be limited.
What to Pack by Season
| Season | Months | Conditions | Key Items |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm & Wet | Jan – Jun | Warm, sunny, occasional heavy rain. Calmer seas. | Light waterproof, swimwear, sun protection |
| Cool & Dry (Garúa) | Jul – Dec | Cooler, misty mornings, slightly rougher seas, abundant marine life | Fleece, windbreaker, motion sickness tablets, layers |
What NOT to Bring to the Galapagos
The Galapagos National Park enforces strict biosecurity rules to protect one of the world’s most fragile and biodiverse ecosystems. Suitcases are inspected prior to boarding flights to the islands. Prohibited items are confiscated.
Single-Use Plastics
The import of all single-use plastics is banned across the Galapagos Islands, including plastic straws, carrier bags, plastic water bottles, and polystyrene cups. Pack accordingly — and remember, your reusable bottle is waiting for you at camp.
Certain Foods from the Mainland
To prevent the introduction of invasive species, strict rules govern what food can be brought to the islands. Fruits including kiwi and papaya are prohibited, as are many seeds and nuts. Galapagos Safari Camp provides all meals and snacks, there is no need to bring food from the mainland.
Chemical Sunscreens
Sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate are prohibited. Bring mineral-based alternatives only (look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
No. Galapagos Safari Camp provides all snorkeling equipment — wetsuits, masks, and fins — for excursions. If you are particular about fit or hygiene and prefer using your own mask, you are welcome to bring it.
Is there a luggage weight limit for Galapagos flights?
Yes. The standard allowance is 23kg (50lb) per person on flights from mainland Ecuador. Inter-island flights sometimes impose lower limits. Packing light is strongly advised.
What power sockets are used in the Galapagos?
US-style Type A and Type B plugs at 110V. Travellers from countries using 220–240V or non-US plug types should bring a universal travel adapter.
What is the best camera to bring to the Galapagos?
Any camera will produce remarkable results in the Galapagos because wildlife approaches so closely. A smartphone is perfectly adequate. For underwater photography, a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case is a worthwhile addition.
Should I worry about malaria or serious insect-borne illness in the Galapagos?
Malaria is not present in the Galapagos Islands. Horseflies and mosquitoes exist but are not considered a significant health risk. Standard insect repellent (DEET-free) and covering up are sufficient precautions.
Plan Your Galapagos Safari
Ready to start planning? Browse our Galapagos Safari itineraries to find the right trip for you, or visit our When to Visit guide to learn more about the two seasons and what to expect.