Living and working near the equator is not for the faint of heart. The heat can be oppressive, with year-round sunshine. Before traveling to the Galápagos Islands, I consulted two tour guides who call the islands home for advice on how to stay cool and safe.
Expert Advice on Sun Protection
"Working as a tour leader in the Galapagos, you learn very quickly that sun protection isn't optional — it's part of your daily uniform," says Intrepid Travel guide Eva Caisaguano. "The key is combining sun protection with airflow, so you stay protected without trapping heat," explains Esteban Kolb, an expedition leader for HX Expeditions. "My biggest advice to travelers is not to underestimate the sun just because the weather feels cool or overcast. At the equator, UV levels stay high year-round. Dressing for sun protection from the start of the day is much easier than trying to fix a sunburn," Caisaguano adds.
Before my trip, I stocked up on recommended gear for myself and my family. I didn't want sunburn or heat exhaustion to slow us down or keep us from even a minute of hiking or snorkeling. I am pleased to say that all four of us avoided sunburn and stayed relatively cool during our week-long trip, thanks to this expert advice. The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.
Essential Gear for Equatorial Travel
1. A Cooling Towel Designed for Camping and Travel
A simple cooling towel goes a long way, Kolb says. Try a specialized cooling towel or wet a small towel and place it around your neck. On my trip, I used a basic handkerchief that I wet with cool water and tied around my neck before going out for hikes. The system worked, but I picked up a packable towel when I got home and found that it was even more effective. The Sea to Summit pocket towel holds three times its weight in water yet dries very quickly. Plus, it's small and light so it won't weigh you down. The towel comes in four sizes from a small hand towel to a large beach towel. It's available in seven colors. "This is the perfect size hand towel for travel or the gym. [Dries] extremely fast and packs away into a tiny well-made zip-up pouch. It's not the cheapest option but you can't beat Sea To Summit's quality. I would highly recommend!" says Jason C.
2. A Truly Wide-Brimmed Hat
A hat is a tried-and-true way to protect yourself from the sun, Kolb says. Ideally, the hat should have a large brim that's approximately three to four inches wide, to ensure your face, ears, and neck are protected. Based on this guidance, we chose the Coolibar Perla sun hat with a generous 4-inch brim. Plus, it's breathable, packable, and rated UPF 50+ for extra protection. "I wear this hat almost everyday to protect my face, neck and chest from the sun. The brim is great coverage without being ridiculous and floppy. Fits in my purse and comes back out perfect every time. I love it and will probably buy a second in the other color," says Jenn.
3. A Cap with Built-In Neck Protection
Wide-brim hats can get the job done, but "caps with neck protection are also useful," Kolb says. Admittedly, hats with capes aren't everyone's style, but they are a good option if you will be spending hours in the sun. Plus, capes cover "areas people often forget, but that burn first," Caisaguano says. Sunday Afternoons Sun Guide cap is a popular cap that we sourced on Amazon based on these expert suggestions. It has a wide brim and a removable cape. The cap comes in two sizes and five colors. "Nice design and good covers from sun. Very easy to store in my backpack or put it in my pant's back pocket because it can be folded. Also the sun block cover can be detachable from the cap. The sun block cover is big enough to protect my entire face. The cap is not too tight around my head, so it is very comfortable for long duration of usage while hiking. It is better than many of expensive sun caps out there," says Hamstar.
4. Serious Sunglasses
Nothing beats a good pair of sunglasses for protecting your eyes, Kolb explained, saying that "sunglasses with UV400 protection, polarized preferred" are best. Good eye protection might not come cheaply, but it's not worth skimping when it comes to your vision. Smith's Embark ChromaPop Glacier sunglasses are polarized and come with removable side shields for even greater protection. The glasses come in 10 color combinations. "By far my favourite and most versatile pair of sunnies. From ice climbing to the summits of Volcanoes in Hawaii, these things are with me. Love them for mtn biking too and really appreciate how modular and adaptive they are," says Niccolo C.
5. A More Affordable Pair of Sunglasses with Similar Features
We found another pair of sunglasses similar to the previous ones that come in at a slightly lower price point. Julbo's lightweight Camino shades feature polarized lenses and removable side shields for full coverage from the sun.
6. A Buff for Versatile Sun Protection
If you are sensitive to the sun, use a buff, or gaiter, to cover your face, neck, and ears. "Even with a hat on, it's a good idea," Kolb says. "It's incredibly versatile. I use a buff to cover my neck, pull it over my face in strong sun, or even use it as a headband to manage sweat," Caisaguano says. I had never used a sun buff before my trip to the Galápagos, but after I saw so many guides and locals using them I decided to pick one up. I loved having the extra protection for my skin. Surprisingly, I found that my buff helped keep me cool, and I've continued to use it on hikes at home. For my own purchase, I chose Blackstrap's Daily Tube neck gaiter, which offers UPF 50+ protection, stays cool, and wicks moisture. Plus, it comes in 16 designs. Reviewers at Amazon say the accessory "exceeded expectations" and offers a soft, breathable and high-quality design.
7. SPF Lip Balm for Delicate Skin
It's easy to overlook protecting your lips, but lip balm with SPF is a good idea, Kolb advises. Sun Bum SPF 30 sunscreen lip balm is a good choice that goes on smoothly. Even better, it comes in various flavors, including coconut, pineapple, pomegranate, and kiwi or a variety pack. "Smells good and lasts. The best moisturizing SPF bomb that I've ever used. The pineapple taste amazing and I also have the coconut one. Great quality definitely protecting my lips for the summer and will continue to use them," says Michelle.
8. A Lightweight Long-Sleeved Shirt
Nearly everyone I saw who lives and works in the Galapagos had on a long-sleeved shirt. Most were ventilated, button-up shirts that could be worn over a regular t-shirt, swimsuit, or SPF-shirt. "People think long sleeves are hotter, but technical fabrics are designed to be breathable and quick-drying, so they actually keep you cooler by blocking direct sun and wicking sweat away from your skin," Caisaguano explains. Based on this explanation, I personally wore the Huk Tide Point button-down shirt throughout my trip. It is available in men's and women's styles. The shirt comes in 40 colors and sizes S-3X. One reviewer — who purchased the shirt for their husband — called the shirt "versatile" and appreciated that the button-front styling lends itself to a variety of settings, from the boat to the dinner table. "It keeps him cool and comfortable, even on hot days, and provides great sun protection."
9. The Right Footwear for Hot Climates
Sandals are great for lounging around in hot climates, but they aren't necessarily the right choice for those who are active. "I choose wide, breathable hiking shoes with good grip and water resistance. In hot climates, your feet swell, and a wider shoe prevents rubbing and blisters while still letting air circulate," Caisaguano explains. The Teva Hydrateck Fairwind sneaker checks all the boxes that Caisaguano described, so we chose to add it here. The high-tech trainer has a breathable mesh upper, a sole made to grip, and dries quickly. This water shoe comes in three colors and sizes 5-11 including half sizes. A men's version is available in three colors and sizes 7-14.
10. A Sun-Protective Hoodie
In an effort to get even more sun protection on my trip, I wore Stio's Vescent hoodie. I love that this sun-protective shirt looks and feels like a hoodie, but is breathable and is rated as UPF 40+. It comes in men's (S-XXL) and women's (XS-XL) sizing. It's become a staple in my summertime wardrobe and I constantly get compliments. "I just purchased one of these and took it for a spin on a hot day in the Utah desert. It filled the bill nicely. It breathed beautifully, stayed dry, and was the closest thing I've worn to wearing nothing yet. Highly recommended for those blistering hot days, or very active days, when you need to stay cool while maintaining sun protection," says Jennifer C.
11. Lightweight Hiking Pants
Just as with long-sleeved shirts, the right type of hiking pants can help you stay cool and protected from the sun. "I wear lightweight hiking pants with built-in sun protection. They protect against both UV and insects, which is important in tropical areas," Caisaguano says. I was skeptical that I would be comfortable in pants in the blazing-hot sun, but I gave it a try. Mountain Hardwear Dynama ankle pant with UPF 50 protection kept me cool on even the hottest days. They come in 20 colors and sizes XXS-XL. Reviewers praise the pants' design: "I love these pants! I wear them when hiking, traveling internationally, and just hanging out. So comfortable! Kind of minimalist, which I like. Fabric is lightweight but not flimsy. Pockets will easily hold phone and even though I'm curvy, I don't think they accentuate the hips. Love that they have zippers."
12. Breathable Shorts
If you prefer to wear shorts, Kolb recommends keeping them breathable. Denim and other non-breathable fabrics can get hot quickly. While I was in the Galápagos, Cotapaxi's Ambato shorts quickly became my go-to on my trip and I've even worn them regularly since returning home. They are lightweight, breathable, and quick drying. These shorts come in two colors in sizes 2-14.
13. A Rashguard for Swimming
If you are spending time in the water, use a rash guard to protect yourself, Kolb suggests — and on my trip, I used a rash guard while snorkeling, swimming, hanging out on the beach, and using my ship's hot tub. I like the Carve Designs' Cruz rashguard because it has UPF 50+ protection, is quick-drying, and has shirred sides that not only look cute but help the shirt stay in place while swimming. It's available in four colors and sizes XS-XL. "This is my favorite rashguard I've ever bought, it's flattering, not too fitting, can be worn with swimsuit or just shorts. Works great for all the water sports and pool days our family does," says Jw.
14. A Classic Swimsuit with UPF Protection
When it comes to swimming, Kolb recommends wearing a UV-protective swimsuit. Even waterproof sunscreen may wear off, and UV-protective swimwear can help keep your skin safe. Kolb didn't recommend a specific brand, but I personally love Quince's Italian plunge one-piece with UPF 50 protection. "Wow wow WOW! Classic, sexy, comfortable, actually long enough for my ridiculously long torso???...Unheard of. I'm so pleased with my purchase!! This suit is flattering and doesn't strip me of my dignity. Siri, play 'I feel like a woman' by Shania Twain," says reviewer Kailyn D.
15. Portable Shade
"Stay in the shade whenever possible," Kolb says. "If possible, take every second you can" in a shady spot, he recommends. However, in the Galapagos and other hot, sunny locations, shade may be scarce. If that's the case, you can make your own with a UPF-treated umbrella. Based on this general suggestion, we found the Six Moon Designs ultralight umbrella at Amazon — it has UPF 50+ protection and a specialized protective coating that reflects 99% of UV rays. "Didn't know how much I needed it until I got one. This umbrella is well worth the money and I can't believe I'm saying that. It is lightweight, comfortable and is very effective," wrote reviewer Linda Lu.
16. Stay Hydrated
It's easy to become dehydrated quickly in hot climates. "Drink water constantly, even if you don't feel thirsty," Kolb says. A large, easy-to-use water bottle is essential. In the absence of a specific brand recommendation from the guides, I'm urging you to try my tried-and-true Owala FreeSip — it's almost always by my side since it's easy to use to sip or chug. The FreeSip is available in 26 colors. "Best water bottle!! Love the shape - fits around my hand and design makes for a comfortable grip. I like the choice between the straw and pour spout. Lid stays closed and has easy push button to open. Keeps water cold and ice takes awhile to melt. Plus the choice in colors!!! Highly recommend," says Beth M.
17. Anything in a Light Color
No matter what type of clothing you choose, Caisaguano recommends sticking with lighter tones. "Light colors help reflect heat while still offering protection," she explains. I usually prefer dark colors, but when it's very hot I make an effort to wear lighter tones. Based on this expert's recommendation, I wore The North Face Jaida t-shirt on repeat during my trip to the equator. It's available in several light colors and is made from lightweight, quick-drying fabric. The shirt comes in sizes XS-XXL.
18. UPF- or SPF-Rated Clothing for Added Protection
Although Kolb says that UPF/SPF-rated clothing is "an optional recommendation," he notes that it can be helpful. Caisaguano says she favors clothing with a UPF rating of 50+ for extra protection. Based on these suggestions, we're suggesting Coolibar — the brand makes dresses, shorts, pants, cover-ups, swimwear, accessories and more with UPF protection. Coolibar has a range of styles in men's and women's sizes. One favorite is the Coral Way dress. It's available in two styles and sizes S-XXL.
19. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Even with the right type of clothing, sunscreen is still important. "I reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially on my face, ears, and hands," Caisaguano says. Kolb also notes that it's important to apply sunscreen to your feet when wearing sandals. While our guides didn't mention a specific sunscreen, I personally use Vacation's reef-safe spray in SPF 50 when traveling near the equator and at home. "I just got back from Cabo and used and needed 50 sunscreen. There is no smell, goes on easy and not wet. I reapplied once during the day but it really seemed very waterproof," says Stacey.
20. Breathable Sandals
Even though sandals aren't always the right choice for tropical climates, they are useful for lazy days and nights out. Kolb recommends sticking with sandals made from a breathable fabric to prevent overheating. Madewell's Aliyah thong sandal is made with cute, but sturdy, paracords that come in a variety of colors. They are padded and have a Velcro strap to ensure they stay in place. Plus, they'll look great at the beach or at the bar. Get them in sizes 5-12.
