Flights from Guayaquil to the Galapagos: baggage allowance limit (23 kilos) and a hand bag of (8 kilos). Extra or overweight bags cost more, so the smart move is to leave the heavy gear at home: on our liveaboards, tanks, weights and weight belts are included, and BCDs, regulators and wetsuits can be rented on board.
The last flight of your trip has the tightest baggage rules. Here is what you can bring, how to split your dive gear between your checked bag and your carry-on, and what to keep out of your suitcase altogether.
What Are the Baggage Limits on Flights to the Galapagos?
On long-haul flights, most airlines allow one checked bag of up to 23 kg (50 lb) and a cabin bag plus a personal item, such as a backpack or computer bag. Some carriers charge for a second checked bag, and a few refuse a third. Penalties for overweight bags differ from airline to airline, so check your fare rules before you pack.
The flight from Guayaquil to Baltra is the one to plan around. Domestic flights to the Galapagos usually allow one checked bag of up to 23 kg (50 lb), and the cabin bag is about 8 kg (17 lb). For flight routes and schedules, see how to fly to the Galapagos.
| Flight | Checked bag | Cabin bag | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europe to Guayaquil | Usually 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lb) | Cabin bag plus a personal item | Some airlines charge for a second bag |
| Guayaquil to Baltra (Galapagos) | Usually 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lb) | About 8 kg (17 lb) plus a personal item | Extra or overweight bags cost more |
Airlines set their own rules and update them, so treat these figures as a guide and confirm them on your ticket.
How to Pack Dive Gear Within the Limits
Start with what you can leave at home. On our liveaboards, tanks, weights and weight belts are included, and air fills are too. If you do not own every piece of gear, you can rent a BCD, a regulator, a dive computer or a wetsuit on board, and every rental price is listed in our Galapagos liveaboard cost guide.
Then split what is left. Keep the items you cannot easily replace in your carry-on: dive computer, mask, regulator, medication and travel documents. If your checked bag is delayed, you can still dive. Wetsuit, fins, booties and the rest go in the checked bag. A soft duffel bag is the best choice, because it folds flat when empty and is easy to store on board.
Not sure what your wetsuit, hood and gloves should be? Our guide on what to wear in the Galapagos has the details. Packing dive gear within those limits? Our Galapagos diving guide covers what the vessel provides and what you should bring yourself.
What to Leave Out of Your Bags
Galapagos biosecurity is strict. Your bags are checked at the airport in Guayaquil before you check in, and fresh fruit, seeds, nuts, plants and most food are not allowed. Small pre-wrapped snacks, such as chocolate bars, are fine.
Two airline rules also apply to dive gear. Spare lithium batteries, including power banks and batteries for cameras and dive lights, must travel in your carry-on, not in your checked bag. Dive knives and other sharp tools go in your checked bag, because they are not allowed in the cabin.
Landing in Baltra: Your Boarding Day
Both the Tiburon Explorer and the Humboldt Explorer sail from and return to Baltra. On boarding day, land in Baltra no later than 11:30 am. The dive guides meet you at the airport and take you to the vessel, and transfers between the airport and the vessel are included on arrival and departure days. On the last morning, you leave the vessel by 9:00 am and transfer to the airport.
Not sure what to pack or rent? Tell us your gear and your dates, and we will help you plan a light, easy trip to the Galapagos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Galapagos Baggage
What is the baggage limit for flights to the Galapagos?
Flights from Guayaquil to the Galapagos usually allow one checked bag of up to 23 kg (50 lb), plus a carry-on of about 8 kg (17 lb) and a small personal item. Airlines set their own rules, so check your ticket before you pack.
How much does excess baggage cost on flights to the Galapagos?
Extra bags and overweight bags are charged by the airline, and the fee can be steep. It is usually cheaper to leave gear at home and rent it on board. Ask your airline for the current fee before you fly.
Do I need to bring my own tanks and weights?
No. Tanks, weights and weight belts are included on our liveaboards, and you can rent a BCD, regulator, dive computer or wetsuit on board.
Should I pack my dive gear in my carry-on or my checked bag?
Put the items you cannot easily replace in your carry-on: dive computer, mask, regulator, medication and travel documents. Wetsuit, fins and booties go in the checked bag. Dive knives must go in checked baggage, and spare lithium batteries must stay in the carry-on.
What am I not allowed to bring to the Galapagos?
Fresh fruit, seeds, nuts, plants and most food are not allowed. Your bags are checked at the airport in Guayaquil before check-in. Small pre-wrapped snacks, such as chocolate bars, are fine.
Is a soft bag better than a hard suitcase for a liveaboard?
Yes. A soft duffel bag folds flat when empty and is easier to store on board than a hard suitcase, so it is the better choice for a liveaboard.
