Your Complete Galapagos Islands Packing List

Packing for the Galapagos Islands is a little different from your average holiday. You’re hopping between beaches; you’re walking over lava fields, swimming with sharks, hiking to craters, and getting splashed on a speedboat. It’s adventure, sun and sea all rolled into one. This Galapagos Islands packing list is written for people like me: the planners, the over-packers,and those who’d…

Posted December 18, 2025Edited June 1, 2026

Packing for the Galapagos Islands is a little different from your average holiday. You’re hopping between beaches; you’re walking over lava fields, swimming with sharks, hiking to craters, and getting splashed on a speedboat. It’s adventure, sun and sea all rolled into one. This Galapagos Islands packing list is written for people like me: the planners, the over-packers,and those who’d rather spend their time watching blue-footed boobies than stressing about what they didn’t bring.

Before You Start Your Galapagos Islands Packing List 

  • Your trip type matters. Whether you’re cruising, island-hopping, or diving, your packing list will shift slightly. Cruises need a bit more structure; island-hopping gives you room to pack lighter.

  • Weight limits apply. Flights to the Galápagos allow one checked bag (23 kg) and a carry-on (10 kg). Inter-island flights and ferries are stricter.

  • Island Hops: Inter-island flights on small planes have stricter limits –  just 20 pounds (10.34 kg) checked. Excess baggage fees are possible, but are very expensive.

  • Cash is king. ATMs can be unreliable, so bring plenty of small USD bills.

  • Shop local. If you forget something, Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz has small shops and pharmacies – though be prepared to pay island prices.

  • Souvenirs: Always leave a little space in your suitcase, as you’ll want to bring home memories from the islands.

Your Complete Galapagos Islands Packing List - Orvis carry-on luggage

Galapagos Islands Packing List: Breakdown of the Essentials

1. Luggage

  • Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure 40L Carry-On Roller Bag. It’s sturdy but light, and honestly, it looks great too. I love the smart design, especially the separate top pocket and compartments that keep things organized. The zippers and wheels are smooth, and it’s truly the perfect carry-on. (I also recommend the larger version for longer trips!)

  • Tripped Travel Gear foldable daypack – A good daypack is a must for your Galapagos Islands packing list, as you’ll use it on every excursion, from hikes to snorkeling trips. This one folds into its own pocket for easy storage, is water-resistant to protect against spills or a sudden rain shower, and the breathable straps make it comfortable to carry all day.

  • Tripped Travel Gear packing cubes. Honestly, they make life so much easier. Everything stays organized, and I can find what I need without tearing my whole bag apart. They’re super lightweight, durable, and pack down flat when not in use. For the Galapagos Islands packing list, where you’re juggling excursions, swims, and dinners, having your gear neatly separated is a must.

Tripped luggage for your Amazon rainforest + Galapagos packing list

2. Galapagos Island Packing List: Clothing

You’ll be in and out of boats, on trails, and hopping in the water at a moment’s notice. Go for breathable, quick-dry fabrics.

  • 2–3 quick-dry shorts – My boys love the Orvis Quick-Dry Drawstring Shorts as they’re comfortable, lightweight, and suitable for adventure travel. They’re easy to throw on, and I love the UPF 50+ sun protection for long days outdoors – a must for my Galapagos Islands packing list.

  • 2–3 lightweight T-shirts or tanks – I like these Flowknit Breeze tanks.

  • 1–2 long-sleeve shirts for sun protection

  • 1 pair of quick-dry hiking pants

  • 1 light hoodie or sweater for cool evenings (especially June–Nov). I love these Cozy Earth sweatshirts and sweatpants for our travels. They are light, breathable, and dry quickly.

Cozy earth tracksuits

Personal pick: The Orvis Ultralight Storm Jacket folds down small but stands up to the Galapagos wind and spray.

Orvis ultra light jacket on my packing list for the Galapagos Islands

3. Galapagos Footwear

Shoes matter more than you think here. You’ll walk across volcanic rock, board wet boats, and climb sandy trails.

  • Shoes – Bring a good pair of sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes. Comfort is key since you’ll be walking on rocky trails and uneven terrain, so make sure they’re sturdy enough to handle it and broken in before your trip. I love my FLUX Adapt Runners as they have a breathable upper, have flexible traction, and are machine washable. Not to mention they are SUPER lightweight.

flux shoes

  • Walking Sandals – You’ll want sandals that can handle a bit of everything on your Galapagos Islands packing list for rocky paths, getting wet, and wandering around town. The Reef Water Vista Sandals are perfect for that. They’re lightweight, flexible, and water-friendly, with enough support to stay comfortable all day. The cushioned footbed has great bounce, and the adjustable straps make them easy to wear on and off. For me, this is one of those Galapagos packing essentials I wouldn’t travel without.

reef sandsals are on your galapagos islands packing list

  • Flip flops – an optional extra for easy use around town or at the beach.

4. Required Documents

  • Passport (and a photocopy) – you need to bring along your original passport to travel to Galapagos. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy just in case you lose the original. If you are an Ecuadorian resident, then take your Cedula ID card instead.

  • Transit Control Card (TCT)  – The easiest way to get your TCT card is online in advance using the Galapagos Government Website. Just fill in your details, pay online, and save the QR code to use when you travel. Alternatively, you can head to the INGALA counter in Quito or Guayaquil airports for the TCT card on the day of travel, but remember to allow extra time for potential queues. Be ready to show your passport and pay the US$20 fee per person. Keep your TCT card safe – you’ll need it to complete your check-in, and again when you leave the islands to return home.

  • Galapagos Customs QR Form – As of 1st December 2024,  all tourists are required to travel with a completed customs QR code. It’s a simple online declaration about food products or camping gear that you are carrying with you, and information about any farms or zoos you may have visited within the past 3 days. Remember to produce the QR code BEFORE you travel, ready to present at the airport.

  • Travel insurance – not mandatory, but strongly recommended. Keep the emergency numbers and policy handy to hand over just in case you have an emergency. I like to use EKTATraveling.com for our travel insurance

  • Galápagos National Park fee ($200)  – Upon arrival, a $200 per person Galápagos National Park fee is payable in US$, so be prepared. It’s recommended to carry plenty more cash with you, too, for souvenirs, meals, tours, tipping, etc. Not all Galapagos businesses accept credit cards, so cash is king.

  • Credit/ATM cards  –  Some islands have ATM machines for cash withdrawals, but don’t be caught out. Some ATMs have lower cash limits than you are used to back home, and expect some fees.

TIP: Keep all documents together in a waterproof pouch as you’ll need to show them multiple times during transfers.

caddis prescription sunglasses need to be on the Galapagos Island Packing List

5. Personal Care Items

  • Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) – Don’t underestimate the Galapagos sun; it’s strong, even on cloudy days. I always go for SPF 50+ to keep my skin protected (and still manage to somehow come home with a tan). Pack a reef-safe sunscreen that can be worn in the water without harming coral reefs, fish, or other marine life. A protective SPF lip balm is also worth having on hand. I recommend Blue Lizard because their sunscreens are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, making them safe for both your skin and the ocean. They’re also deeply committed to thoughtful ingredients and packaging that reduce environmental impact, without compromising on high-quality sun protection.

blue lizard reef friendly sunscreen

  • Sunglasses (UV protection) – a good pair of sunnies is a must! Aim for proven UV protection from a recognized brand to reduce the sun’s glare and protect your eyes. I really love Caddis prescription sunglasses, for functionality and style.

  • Insect repellent – the Galapagos Islands have some mosquitoes and bugs, so pack repellent just in case.

  • Compact Binoculars – I bought these binoculars for $25 off Amazon, and they worked perfectly for what I needed.

These compact binoculars and Tripped dry bag worked perfectly

  • Motion sickness tablets – There’s a very high chance you’ll be on the sea at some time during your Galapagos vacation. Cruises, day tours, and speed boat ferries are standard transportation, so pack some Dramamine (or similar) just in case, as ferries can get rough.

  • Basic first aid kit + any prescriptions – don’t forget to pack your prescription medicines and travel with some first aid basics like plasters, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Imodium, etc.

  • Reusable water bottle – Bring a refillable water bottle to help keep the Galapagos plastic-free. Hotels and boats have safe drinking water dispensers, so it’s easy to top up each day without buying plastic bottles.

  • Dry bag – A dry bag is essential for keeping cameras and electronics safe from splashes. I use Tripped Travel Gear’s Backpacker Carry-On Flex Set – the compression cubes keep everything organized, and the laundry bag doubles as a beach, grocery, or dry bag whenever you need it.
  • After sun / After bite cream – to repair red, burnt skin or stop the itch of insect bites. I like to use Sarna bug bite patches as I find them really soothing.

sarna bug bite patches should be on your galapagos islands packing list

6. Other Tech & Gear

You’ll want to capture everything from the sea lions, the sunsets, and maybe the moment you realize a marine iguana just sneezed on you.

  • Camera or phone with waterproof case – The Galapagos Islands are a photographer’s dream, so you’ll definitely want something to capture the magic. Be sure you bring a waterproof case for all those boat rides and snorkeling trips.

  • GoPro or underwater camera – Highly recommended addition to your Galapagos Islands packing list for snorkelers and divers! The underwater action at Galapagos is truly world-class, so don’t miss out!

  • Extra memory cards & power banks- to  capture photo/video action, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of spare batteries and that you Galapagos hotels do have wifi access (albeit rather slow), but you’ll be disconnected aboard most cruise yachts.

  • Travel Adaptor – Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands use the same two-prong 110V electrical sockets as the USA.

TIP: Bring plenty of spare batteries – on day tours, you’ll have your camera out most of the day, and it would be a shame to miss documenting a special moment because your battery died.

bring a light rain cost for your galapagos island packing list

7. Extras You’ll Be Glad You Brought

  • Lightweight sarong or beach towel – Pack something lightweight that folds up small but gives you a spot to sit on the beach. A sarong works perfectly and is easy to carry, and takes up almost no space in your bag.

  • Snacks for travel days or long hikes

  • Books or Kindle – there’ll be plenty of downtime to dig into a novel, so a good book or Kindle is well worth packing.Try to pick up a Galapagos-themed book on Amazon. A few that I recommend include:“My Father’s Island” (Johanna Angermeyer), “The Galapagos – A Natural History” (Henry Nicholls), and “The Voyage of the Beagle” (Charles Darwin)

  • Laundry soap for quick hand washes

  • Reusable tote bag (plastic is banned)

  • Snorkel and Mask – If snorkelling is an important part of your trip, consider packing your own snorkel and mask. The ones included in the tours have met more mouths than I care to think about.

Swimming with stingrays in Moorea

What You Can Leave at Home

  • Hairdryer (most lodges ban them)

  • Jeans (too heavy and they’ll never dry)

  • Heels or fancy outfits

  • Anything leather (the humidity will destroy it)

Final Thoughts on your Galapagos Islands Packing List – Pack Smart, Travel Easy

Your Galapagos Islands packing list should be smart and efficient. Choose lightweight layers, keep your electronics dry, and bring more sunscreen than you think you’ll need. So pack light, stay curious, and get ready – this is one adventure where “less stuff” really does mean “more life experience.”

My Ecuador Travel Guide: Quito, the Amazon, and the Galápagos

We spent 48 hours in Quito, then traveled deep into the Amazon, and finished in the Galápagos. This guide pulls it all together; it’s clear, practical, and based on how we actually did the trip. I cover how to move between regions, when to book tours, what’s worth planning ahead, and where flexibility helps. You’ll find straightforward advice on routes, cash, packing, and timing, plus what to expect in each place without overcomplicating it. If you’re planning to visit Ecuador and want to feel prepared before you arrive, this series is meant to help you do exactly that.

Is there something you’d add to this Galapagos packing list?

Let me know in the comments below, and join me on Instagram and TikTok!

*** This article was sponsored, but all opinions are my own ***

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Hi! I’m Samantha

I’m a travel and health writer, marketing consultant, breast cancer survivor, and proud mum to two young men, who are, without question, my greatest achievement.

I share family travel, destination guides, honest reviews, and the realities of life after breast cancer. It’s sometimes lovely, sometimes messy, but always authentic, and told with my dry (and sometimes naughty) British sense of humor.

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