We are headed to the Galapagos in just about a month! The Galapagos really blends two things DH and I both love–water/snorkeling and animals. We are excited about spending some time in the highlands in Ecuador as well.
We’ll be in a hotel for about 3 nights, on a ship for 6, and in a safari-style lodge for a single night. I’m not a huge fan of boats, so while I know many travelers like longer trips, I’m quite happy with 6 days on a ship.
We pack lightly, but the Galapagos will require some new/different gear. My mom went to the Galapagos less than 2 years ago, and also provided us some suggestions of things we needed, along with the guidance we received from our operator (Natural Habitat).
Here are five things I’m definitely packing for the Galapagos that I don’t always take with me on other trips:
- A shorty wet-suit: I’m like the biggest water wimp pretty much ever. I get cold in the Caribbean, and last about an hour without shivering violently. I’m no penguin. Yes, they do provide these on the boat but if you know me, you know I’m a germaphobe and wearing a stranger’s wetsuit just isn’t happenin’. Mine is a Patagonia R1 Spring Jane.
- Lots of spray sunscreen: I never ever have spray sunscreen, but when you are wet all the time, it’s significantly easier to apply. In travel size, obviously. Still not checking a bag! As always, Amazon is my go to for sunscreen — but check the expiration when it arrives.
- Swim tights: I’ve been warned of jelly fish, plus they’ll help to keep me warm and ensure that I worry less about the sun while in the water or on a kayak for extended periods. UPF 50 should be great around the equator! I’ll of course have my normal rashguard for snorkeling as well. These are from Athleta, because their return policy (any time, any reason) is the best. Similar here (on sale!).
- Dry bags: really necessary for wet landings where you have to hop into the water to reach the shore. Don’t want a wet camera when there are boobies (red and blue, of course) to be seen! I was gifted a set of various sizes, perfect for my camera and equipment. Check out Amazon, REI, or any outdoor store, similar here.
- Water-appropriate shoes: for wet landings in water, sometimes there is lava, not sand, so bare feet just don’t cut it. I’m taking Tevas, but DH found some awesome draining sneakers from Adidas that will do the job (and he can walk/hike for a bit in them, too)! Amazon, again. These are the original Tevas, and mine were a whopping $23 when I found them on Amazon.
And of course my own snorkel will be coming with me (see earlier germaphobe reference).
It is likely to be a bit cool in the highlands, so I’ll probably need a lite layer/coat–plus, planes are like freezer boxes anyway, so I’ll definitely have something warm even though it will be hot in the islands.
Not only am I excited for the Galapagos, I’m in need of a solid vacation, too, though I always miss the dog. I’ll post my packing list as the trip gets closer!
Have you been to the Galapagos? Anything you definitely wished you had brought with you and didn’t have?
