travel right. pack light : ECUADOR
The atmosphere is pretty casual and there is no need to bring any formal dress. Ecuador has many diverse climates. We will be in Quito, the cloud forest and the highlands. Weather varies from place to place from warm to very cold, wet to dry. We will literally be experiencing it all. The key to maintaining your comfort is to bring ample layers and protection from sun, wind and insects. Check out Ecuador weather here. Less is more and leave valuables at home!
Your passport (be sure it’s up to date!)
1-2 paper copies of your passport
Copy of your COVID vaccination record
Proof of travel health insurance (needed to enter the Galapagos)
Any prescriptions or medications you need- I like to bring a small personal med kit filled with the essentials I use.
Motion sickness pills or sea bands if you get motion sick!!
Ibuprofen, Advil, Excedrin, Ginger, Charcoal, Electrolyte tablets, anti-diarrheal, antibiotics, anti-itch cream, aloe
Bandaids, alcohol wipes, ace bandage, tape, Bacitracin, Neosporin
Wallet/money
Facemasks
Sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Small backpack or day bag
Phone
APPROVED at-home Covid tests for re-entry to the USA. Abbot’s BinaxNOW Antigen tests.
Jacket- fleece or winter
Scarf and light gloves
Hat for sun and hat for cold
Assortment of t-shirts and pants
Windbreaker
Rain gear
Sweatshirts
Sweaters
Warm socks
Bathing suit
Beach cover up
Flipflops/Teva/ or similar water sandals
Long pants and socks for working/hiking/exploring
Sneakers
Comfortable walking shoes
Personal toiletries
Sleep mask/ear plugs
Headlight
Camera
Travel alarm clock
Extra batteries
Personal first aid kit
Tampons/pads
Book/journal/pen
Sunglasses
Small Spanish dictionary
Cloth or reusable bag for market shopping
Energy bars like Luna. Cliff, Kind bars
Games like cards, bananagrams, Dominos etc
Currency
The US dollar is the currency of Ecuador. We recommend bringing your money in SMALL BILLS as it is difficult to change large bills especially in the more rural areas.
ATM's are throughout the country in case you need to withdraw money. Credit cards aren't always accepted so please don't depend on them as your only means of buying something.
A fantastic app to download to your phone to make conversions easier is XE CURRENCY.
Tipping
There will not be many situations where you will need to tip but as always if you feel a service given to you deserves it, then it is up to your discretion i.e. driver, hotel staff, instructor....If you do an optional tour or surf lesson generally a 10% tip is appreciated.
For room cleaning generally $5 per day per person, for driver generally $5-$8 per day. Please keep in mind these are all just suggested amounts!
Wondering what’s in my suitcase? Here are some of my fav packing essentials. From skin care to gear and everything in between. Plus-all selections are from some of my favorite women owned, sustainable stores. Happy packing! ~Caitlin