Packing for any trip can be tricky. Unless you’ve visited the destination before, it’ll be hard to tell what you should bring and leave behind. Being prepared means you don’t have to restrict your activities to what you packed for and you’re better equipped for changes in weather and activity.

The Galapagos offers a wide range of animal and plant life that attracts thousands of visitors every year from different parts of the world. So, in preparation for your trip, we’ve put together a list of packing tips to make the task a little bit easier. 

Clothing

You’re going to visit the Galapagos Islands soon, so you’re gathering as much information about the trip as possible. The best cruises offer 4-8 day itineraries so that gives you some idea of how many days your packing efforts should cover. Learn more about the Galapagos Cruises on Voyagers Travel, weather and activities to make packing and trip planning easier. 

The scorching Ecuadorian climate will keep you in shorts and tank tops throughout your trip. Cover your bases for heat, cool evenings and dinner on the ship. Make sure you pack a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, neck and shoulders from the bright sunlight and heat. 

Sunscreen 

The sunlight and bare skin are a dangerous combination. So, make sure you’ve packed high SPF sunscreen because a bad case of sunburn can ruin a perfectly good holiday. Protective sun visors, hats and clothes that are light enough to shield you from intense sun rays are an essential item in any island-bound suitcase.

Remember to apply sunscreen throughout the day at regular intervals. One application is never enough so make sure to pack a bottle into the day bag you’ll use on the island or grab an extra bottle that lives in the bag. Your cruise vessel will have sunscreen on sale, too, in case you forget it at home.  

Shoes

It’s recommended that you forgo fancy sneakers and tennis shoes for older, more worn shoes you may have lying in the back of your cupboard. Walking on the volcanic surface of the island can get hot and sweaty and your feet will undoubtedly come into contact with water and rough terrain. 

Travel guides suggest packing a Teva-style sandal, which will give your air and light. You can get them wet without ruining the sole or fabric on the straps. Pack a second pair of shoes for the plane and other activities you might participate in on the cruise ship. 

Swimming gear

You will most likely swim either on the ship or in the ocean, as activities like snorkeling and diving are offered on the islands. If you have your snorkeling gear, you can bring them along. Snorkeling guides will have the necessary gear or they can be rented or purchased on the ship. 

A swimsuit or bikini and a shorty wetsuit are recommended for diving, snorkeling and kayaking. The partial coverage that a wetsuit provides will keep the sun rays at bay to further ensure that you don’t burn and provide some protection against 18-23 degree water temperatures. 

Camera equipment

The flora, fauna and animal life on the Galapagos Islands are incredible. Their historical significance and beauty will have you snapping pictures of as many great moments and things as you can capture. Your camera is essential for making memories and documenting your time on the cruise. 

So don’t forget to pack everything you might need to go along with your camera. A tripod, waterproofing, lenses, batteries, chargers and memory cards with as much memory as possible are the items you should bring along. Every day on the cruise will bring with it an opportunity to get another great snap of your trip.