Ultimate Galapagos Packing List: What to Bring for Your Island Adventure
We’ve been exploring active travel in the Galápagos Islands for many years. We were the first to launch kayak and camping tours across the islands, and for over three decades, we’ve had the joy of watching travelers fall in love with the same things that brought us here in the first place.
There’s something truly special about the Galápagos. Unique wildlife is everywhere, allowing for encounters that you can’t find anywhere else on earth. Remote beaches make you feel like you’re the first person on earth to explore their sandy shores. And we’ve watched time and time again as guests who join us in the Galápagos walk away transformed, not just by the beauty of the islands, but by the simplicity and rhythm of life here.
We’ve also learned a thing or two over the years about what to pack for an active vacation in the Galapagos. To make the most of this active, immersive adventure, it’s important to pack smart. In this post we’ll go over all of the tips and tricks we’ve learned from our years of exploring these iconic islands off of the coast of Ecuador.
First Things First: Know Your Trip
Galápagos multisport journeys like our Galapagos Unbound Tour are designed for travelers who want to explore the islands actively and up-close. You’ll be kayaking its turquoise waters, hiking through volcanic landscapes, snorkeling alongside unique marine life, and even camping on remote beaches.
You can expect warm, sunny days paired with cooler mornings and some breezy evenings. You’ll encounter salt spray from the waves while sea kayaking, the occasional tropical rain, and likely a bit of dirt on your hiking boots. Inter-island flights come with a strict 25-pound baggage limit per person, so packing just the essentials is not only encouraged—it’s required.
With that in mind, here’s your essential Galápagos Islands packing list, crafted with decades of local knowledge and first-hand experience guiding travelers through these enchanted isles.
Luggage Strategy for the Galapagos: Pack Smart and Pack Light
We recommend traveling with a soft-sided suitcase or duffel bag. Also, a small daypack or dry bag that can be brought along on a variety of daily excursions, whether you're kayaking to Lobos Island or snorkeling at Kicker Rock, you’ll want to make sure you can bring your daily essentials along.
Compression packing cubes can help you stay organized and squeeze your items into a smaller pack. We also recommend that you bring a few plastic bags or large ziplocks for wet gear, dirty shoes, or potential leaks from toiletries.
Galápagos Clothing Essentials
Before packing your clothes, it’s important to go over your itinerary. Will you be spending a lot of time in the water? Or mostly on land? Exploring exposed volcanic peaks? Or deep into a lush forest? Once you have an idea of what activities you’re planning on doing, it’s time to pack.
For warm days and water activities, prioritize lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing. Pack one or two pairs of quick-dry shorts and two to three breathable t-shirts or tank tops. A long-sleeve rash guard or SPF shirt is highly recommended for kayaking and snorkeling to protect from sun exposure and to wear under a lifejacket. Swimsuits are a must—ideally two: one for under a wetsuit and one for lounging on the beach. Don’t forget a sunhat with a chin strap (the ocean breeze here can be strong), polarized sunglasses with a pair of chums, and sturdy water sandals like Tevas or Chacos that can be used in the rocky shorelines, in the water, and on village walks.
Evenings and early mornings can be surprisingly chilly, especially if you’re camping on the beach. Bring a lightweight fleece or windbreaker and a pair of long pants (bonus points if they have zip-off legs and can be used for hiking). A lightweight set of pajamas will keep you comfortable at night, both in a hotel and while camping. For hiking, trail runners or light hiking shoes work well and won’t weigh down your luggage. Since some hotels offer laundry service, you can get away with packing fewer items than you might expect.
Snorkeling & Kayaking Gear
Snorkeling and kayaking are some of our favorite activities in the Galapagos. If you’re traveling with us, we’ll provide all the essentials for these activities. We have wetsuits, snorkel masks, fins, personal flotation devices (PFDs or lifejackets), paddles, and kayaks. It’s important to ask any operator that you’re traveling with if those items will be provided and to pack accordingly defending on what they’ll have available.
Aside from the basics, we’ve found that a few optional extra items can elevate your comfort. As mentioned above, a rash guard adds warmth, protects you from the sun, and avoids any rubbing with your life jacket. Fingerless paddling gloves can prevent blisters during longer kayaking days. A compact, quick-dry towel tends to come in handy, and a waterproof camera or GoPro is a fun way to capture encounters with sea turtles, sea lions, and anything else you might come across on your adventures.
Toiletries & First Aid
When it comes to toiletries, we recommend bringing everything you might need along with you and avoid planning on purchasing items as you go. Pack biodegradable soap and shampoo, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and reef-safe sunscreen. Insect repellent is important, especially for evenings on the beach. Wet wipes or shower wipes are handy for refreshing between swims, and lip balm with SPF is essential for long days exposed to the sun. Don’t forget hand sanitizer, any prescription medications, and your favorite remedies for motion sickness, sunburn, or minor scrapes.
Important Documents & Travel Essentials
Don’t forget your passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. It’s also wise to bring a photocopy stored separately in your luggage. You’ll need cash to cover local fees, $200 for the Galápagos National Park entrance and $20 for the Isabela Island arrival tax as well as tips for your guide and crew. International credit or debit cards are widely accepted, but remember to notify your bank before travel to avoid any transaction issues abroad!
Extras Items That Make a Big Difference in the Galapagos
Small comforts can go a long way on an active adventure. A reusable water bottle to use on the trail, and a personal water filter like a LifeStraw helps in the effort to reduce single-use plastics. A headlamp or flashlight for navigating the beach camp after dark. A lightweight journal or notepad is perfect for remembering your experiences, and a pocket-sized field guide to Galápagos wildlife is a fun way to enhance your appreciation of everything from marine iguanas to blue footed boobies.
Ready to Experience the Galápagos?
From falling asleep to the sound of waves to snorkeling with sea lions or paddling into hidden coves, the Galápagos islands are unlike any other adventure. With the right gear and a light pack you’ll be ready to focus on the real magic: the wildlife, the landscapes, and the connections you’ll make along the way.
We’ve been perfecting this journey for over 30 years. All that’s left is for you to bring yourself and a suitcase packed with purpose.
