Packing for the Galápagos is different.
It’s not a resort trip. It’s not your typical cruise. It’s also not as rugged as some packing lists make it seem, especially when you’re sailing with Silversea.
I’ve read the forums. I’ve seen the overstuffed duffels and the gear lists that feel like you’re prepping for Everest. That’s not what you need here. This is a trip where you’ll hike, snorkel, ride Zodiacs, nap, dine well, and repeat, all from the comfort of a ship where your wetsuit is hung up for you and your espresso shows up just the way you like it.
This list isn’t theoretical. It’s what I’d actually pack if I were heading out tomorrow. Based on Silversea’s guidance, seasoned travelers’ tips, and the rhythm of life onboard, it’s designed for comfort, ease, and the kind of adventure you say yes to because everything else is already handled.
What Makes Packing for the Galápagos Different
You’re going to be active, almost every day, but you’re not backpacking through the jungle. You’re stepping off a luxury ship into small boats, landing on rocky shores, and walking through sun, salt, and sand before being handed a cool towel and sitting down to a white-tablecloth lunch.
The key is flexibility. One morning might mean snorkeling with sea lions, and the next, a shaded hike through highland forest—the temperature swings too, bright sun, then mist, then back to blazing. You’ll want layers, not bulk. Quick-dry, not techy.
And because you’re on Silversea, you can pack lighter. They provide a lot: wetsuits, backpacks, rain gear, even reef-safe sunscreen. The goal isn’t to bring everything. It’s to bring the right things, and nothing extra.
Clothing Essentials (And Why I’d Bring Them)
You’re going to rotate the same core pieces over and over—because they work, they dry quickly, and you’ll be glad you didn’t overpack.
Quick-dry long-sleeve shirts
Lightweight, breathable, and ideally with built-in UV protection. These are your go-to for Zodiac rides, hikes, and even some dinners onboard if paired right. I’d pack three.
Convertible or lightweight pants
You’ll want one pair that can handle trail dust and one that just feels good to change into after a snorkel. A pair of pull-on shorts doesn’t hurt either.
Rash guards or swim shirts
Snorkeling is frequent, and the equator sun is no joke. I’d bring two—one long-sleeve, one short, and rotate between them.
Swimsuits (two minimum)
You’ll use them daily. One can dry while the other is in action. No need to go overboard, just make sure they’re comfortable under a wetsuit.
Light jacket or pullover
Evenings can get cool, and some early Zodiac rides feel brisk. Something light, warm, and easy to layer.
Rain jacket
Silversea provides ponchos, but I’d still bring my own light waterproof shell. It’s better for layering and less bulky in your daypack.
A few smart-casual pieces
Dinner onboard doesn’t require formalwear, but I like to change out of excursion gear. Two nicer tops, one wrinkle-resistant dress or shirt, and you’re set.
That’s it. I don’t pack outfits, I pack layers that can work harder than they look like they do.
Gear & Extras That Make the Difference
This is the stuff that isn’t strictly required, but makes your days smoother, drier, and more enjoyable. Every item here earns its spot.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
You’ll be doing wet landings, stepping from a Zodiac into shallow surf. I bring water sandals that stay secure and dry fast. They’ve saved me more times than I can count.
A real daypack
Silversea gives you a water-resistant backpack, but I like having my own that fits better and has compartments where I want them. Just make sure it’s lightweight and packs flat.
Dry bags or waterproof pouches
Essential if you’re bringing a phone or camera on excursions. I pack a small dry bag for my gear and a couple of zip-seal bags for the inevitable “this is damp and I don’t know where to put it” moment.
Compact binoculars
You’ll want them. Birds, iguanas, distant dolphins, things move fast out there, and it’s nice to zoom in quietly without fumbling.
Snorkel mask (optional)
Silversea provides good-quality snorkel gear, including wetsuits. But if you’ve got a mask that fits your face perfectly, bring it. Comfort makes a big difference, especially if you wear prescription lenses. You don’t want to miss the sea turtles because your mask didn’t seal right or your vision was fuzzy.
GoPro or underwater camera
Not mandatory, but if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to relive moments visually, this is one of the few trips where an action cam really earns its keep.
Neck gaiter or buff
Sun, wind, salt, these lightweight fabric tubes solve a lot of small annoyances. I bring one and usually end up wishing I had a second.
Small first-aid kit
I keep it simple: motion sickness tablets, electrolyte packets, Imodium, and a couple of Band-Aids. Nothing elaborate, just the things you’ll wish you had if you don’t.
What Silversea Already Provides (So You Don’t Overpack)
One of the best parts of sailing with Silversea is how much they already have waiting for you. You don’t need to bring the “just in case” stuff—they’ve thought it through.
Snorkel gear
They’ll fit you onboard with a mask, fins, snorkel, and wetsuit. It’s good-quality gear, cleaned between uses, and available for the full trip. If you have a favorite mask or prescription lenses, bring your own, but otherwise, you’re covered.
Rain poncho and umbrella
You’ll have both available onboard, and the poncho is easy to stash in your daypack. I still prefer my own lightweight rain shell for comfort and fit, but you don’t need to bring rain gear if you’re packing light.
Daypack and water bottle
You’ll get a refillable water bottle and a Silversea-branded backpack for excursions. It’s basic, but functional. If you’re particular about fit or compartments, bring your own, otherwise, this works.
Reef-safe sunscreen
There’s always a supply onboard. It’s solid quality, but if you have sensitive skin or just prefer your usual brand, bring a small bottle. Otherwise, it’s one less thing to think about.
Towels and hiking poles
Towels are available both onboard and for shore excursions, and the expedition team will offer hiking poles for rougher terrain. No need to bring your own unless you have a strong personal preference.
It’s easy to overpack for the Galápagos. Silversea’s team is excellent at anticipating what you’ll need and making sure it’s within reach.
What I’d Leave Behind Next Time
There’s always something that never makes it out of the suitcase. Here’s what I wouldn’t bring again.
Too many “nice” outfits
The onboard vibe is relaxed and refined, not formal. One or two elevated pieces is plenty. Anything beyond that felt like dead weight.
Extra shoes
Between water sandals, walking shoes, and flip-flops, you’re covered. I packed a pair of sneakers “just in case” and never touched them.
Bulky rain gear
Silversea’s ponchos are fine, and the weather shifts so often that a quick-dry jacket is more useful than a heavy-duty shell. Anything heavier just sat in the closet.
A full makeup kit
This isn’t that kind of trip. I brought more than I needed and didn’t use most of it. Tinted sunscreen, mascara, lip balm. Done.
A book I thought I’d read
You think you’ll have all this downtime, but between excursions, meals, and just watching the water go by, I barely opened it.
The more I travel, the more I realize how little I need. If I’d focused on comfort, layering, and things that earn their spot, I would’ve had more space, and less to dig through.
Final Thoughts
Packing well doesn’t mean bringing everything. It means knowing what you’ll actually use, what the ship already has covered, and what makes you feel ready without overdoing it.
If you’re thinking about a Galápagos trip with Silversea, or just want a second set of eyes on your packing list, I’m happy to help.
Quiet trips still take planning. But they shouldn’t be stressful.
Curated Cruising 
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