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An update from Evaneos
Ecuador

What to put in your suitcase when travelling in Ecuador

Preparing what to pack for a trip to Ecuador will vary from one tourist to another.

If you're planning to stay on the coast or head to the Amazon, then you'll need lightweight clothes suited to hot weather, as well as waterproof gear to protect you in humid zones. Add on a trip to the Galapagos and you'll need to pack swimwear and T-shirts, the latter being useful if you plan to go surfing. Depending on the season, the water can feel chilly. If a visit to Andes is on the cards, then take clothes that will protect you from glacial temperatures. But don't over-pack as you can always buy gear at local markets once there . However, if you decided to scale peaks such as Cotopaxi or Chimborazo, you will need specialist mountain equipment including an Artic-style sleeping bag.

As far as a medical kit goes, make sure you have the basics. Ask your doctor for a prescription for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and malaria pills and pack a mosquito net for nights in the jungle. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses and a sunscreen to protect you from the rays.

Take a camera/camcorder and enough memory cards so you can record your many adventures. If you're planning to rent a car then you'll need an International Drivers Permit. Remember to get a photocopy of your passport in case of loss. Don't forget your debit/credit card and leave enough space for a pair of binoculars. You'll be glad you have them when you go wildlife spotting in the Galapagos.

You may want to also take some goggles.

What to pack

  1. International Drivers Permit so you can get around by car
  2. Binoculars for spotting wildlife in the Galapagos Islands.
  3. A camera or camcorder for all those special moments
  4. A torch - powercuts are frequent
  5. A Spanish/English dictionary so you can make yourself understood
  6. A debit/credit card to withdraw cash
  7. Sun protection gear (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses...)
  8. A photocopy of your passport in case of loss
  9. A good insect repellent to keep blood thirsty mosquitoes at bay in the Amazon
  10. Malaria pills
  11. Medicine to treat Acute Mountain Sickness
  12. A basic medical kit
  13. A good pair of walking boots for your hikes and expeditions
  14. Any mountain equipment needed for climbing Ecuador's peaks
  15. Swimwear so you can explore the depths around the Galapagos Islands
  16. Warm clothes to protect you from the Andes' glacial temperatures
  17. Long sleeved tops and trousers to protect you from mosquito bites
  18. Lightweight clothes for the hotter parts of the country
David Debrincat
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