If you’re wondering what to pack for Seychelles, you’re in the right place.
After visiting these beautiful islands five times (and counting), I’ve put together the ultimate Seychelles packing list of everything you need to bring when planning and preparing for your trip.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SEYCHELLES:
• Hilltop Boutique Hotel (I stayed here in Victoria on Mahé)
• Sun Properties & Resort Hotel (I stayed here in Beau Vallon on Mahé)
• Marie Laure Suites (I stayed here in Bel Ombre on Mahé)
• Bambous River Lodge (I stayed here in Bel Ombre on Mahé)
• Palm Beach Hotel (I stayed here in Grand Anse on Praslin)
• Chez Bea (I stayed here in Cote’Or on Praslin)
• Cote D’Or Footprints (upscale stay in Cote D’Or on Praslin)
• La Digue Self Catering Apartments (I stayed here in La Passe on La Digue)
• Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel (perfect beachfront location on La Digue)
• Chalets d’Anse Reunion (perfect paradise stay on La Digue)
TOP EXPERIENCES and TOURS IN SEYCHELLES:
• Mahé: Anse Major hike (I did this fun hike!)
• Mahé: Private Tour on Mahé (I did this)
• Mahé: St. Anne Marine Park with Lunch (I did this!)
• Mahé: Rock pool hike (on my wishlist)
• Mahé: Day trip to Praslin and La Digue (great if you are short on time)
• Praslin: Vallé de Mai and Anse Lazio (I did this!)
• Praslin: cruise to Curieuse and St. Pierre Island (top-rated tour)
• La Digue: Anse Marron (hike to an isolated beach)
• La Digue: Crystal Water Kayaks tour (my favorite!)
This Seychelles Packing guide covers all the must-haves, plus tips on what to wear to make your photos stand out.
Seychelles is mostly Roman Catholic, so unlike any other tropical destination in the Indian Ocean, like Maldives or Zanzibar, there’s no need to cover up.
Before you begin packing, don’t forget to download the free Seychelles packing list PDF that you will find at the end to make sure you don’t forget anything!
FRIENDLY REMINDER
Never leave for a trip without travel insurance. Unexpected issues can arise so I suggest using insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy this travel insurance even if you are already abroad.
Seychelles packing guide
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● Find out what you should and shouldn’t pack when visiting the islands of the Seychelles to ensure a hassle-free vacation.
● Download your free packing list for the Seychelles so you won’t forget anything.
● Make sure to keep some extra room in your luggage for the unique local crafts and spices you’ll want to take home!
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Travel essentials
Packing the right essentials is crucial for every trip, no matter where and when you go.
When you pack for the Seychelles, start with important documents and items that will keep you comfortable and prepared during your travels.
Here’s what you should include:
☐ Passport and Travel Documents
Keep these safe in your carry-on for easy access at airports and for any necessary identification throughout your trip.
TIP: Scan your passport and email it to yourself before the trip, so IF it gets lost, you’ll have a backup for reference.
☐ Travel Insurance
Never travel without it! I’ve heard too many horror stories of the enormous expenses people had for minor health problems. It is not worth the risk, as the insurance will cost you less than expenses after. Keep a copy of your travel insurance details handy for peace of mind and assistance in emergencies.
STAY SAFE ABROAD
Never leave for a trip without travel insurance. Unexpected issues can arise so I suggest using insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy this travel insurance even if you are already abroad.
☐ Seychelles Travel Authorisation
Before coming to Seychelles, you must apply for the digital Travel Authorization and carry a copy with you.
To apply, you will need a valid passport, a photo, your contact information, a return ticket with arrival and departure dates, ALL accommodation booking confirmation(s), and a credit or debit card to pay the fee (around 10€ or $11).
☐ Hotel booking confirmation(s)
Immigration may ask you to show your hotel bookings for each location of your stay in Seychelles. This must include the name of the hotel or guesthouse. You can obtain confirmations from platforms like Booking or Expedia.
☐ Credit Cards and Cash
While many places accept cards, some smaller shops and markets may only take cash, so it’s good to have both. You can exchange new USD and EUR notes for the Seychellois rupee at the airport. They don’t exchange 500€ notes!
☐ Basic First Aid kit
Pack a small kit with items like pain relievers, band-aids, and any personal medications to handle possible minor health issues during your adventures.
☐ Reusable Water bottle
Staying hydrated is essential, and a reusable bottle helps reduce plastic waste while you explore the islands. Tap water is safe to drink.
Clothing items and Shoes
Seychelles enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). While it’s mostly sunny, occasional rain showers can occur, especially during the rainy season from November to March.
As a predominantly Christian country, there’s no strict dress code, so you don’t need to cover up.
To stay comfortable while exploring, pack lightweight and breathable clothes. Don’t forget to bring a variety of footwear for different activities, ensuring you’re prepared for both beach days and island hikes.
Here’s what you should include in your packing list for Seychelles regarding clothing items and shoes:
☐ Lightweight dresses and skirts
Perfect to wear in Seychelles for staying cool and comfortable while exploring the main islands. Dresses and skirts can easily transition from beach to dinner.
☐ Shorts and long pants
Pack a mix of both to suit various activities. Long pants are useful for a flight to Seychelles and evenings when it might get cooler.
☐ Tank tops and T-shirts
Choose breathable fabrics to help you stay cool. Bright colors or fun prints will make your photos pop!
☐ Snorkeling shirt
A long-sleeved, quick-dry snorkeling shirt offers sun protection and keeps you comfortable in the water. It’s a smart choice if you’re planning on spending a lot of time watching sea life.
☐ Swimwear
Bring at least two swimsuits so you have a dry one ready while the other is drying after a day at the beach.
☐ Cover-Up
A stylish cover-up is ideal for beach visits and can be worn to restaurants or shops without needing a full change.
☐ Beach shoes and/or flip-flops
Perfect for beach days and casual outings, ensuring you can walk easily on sandy shores. Pair of either beach shoes will do.
☐ Sturdy walking shoes
If you plan to hike or explore more rugged areas, pack supportive shoes for comfort and safety. Running shoes were sufficient when I was walking the trails in Seychelles.
☐ Lightweight jacket or sweater
While it’s mostly warm, evenings can be cooler, and occasional rain can occur, so a light layer can be helpful for breezy nights. I would also recommend bringing one on the inter-island ferry as I was always cold because of the Airconditioning.
☐ Quick-Dry rain jacket
Packing a lightweight, quick-dry rain jacket is a smart move, especially if you’re traveling during the wetter months. It will keep you comfortable and dry during unexpected showers.
What colors to wear for stunning photos and videos
If you are booking your drone photoshoot on La Digue, and want to get the best Instagram photos at Anse Source d’Argent, Anse Lazio, and Vallée de Mai, you need to pack bright colors like turquoise, orange, red, coral pink, and bright yellow. These vibrant hues beautifully contrast the sandy beaches, lush greenery, and granite boulders.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each color, including some you might want to avoid:
🤍 WHITE
A classic choice. White looks fresh and elegant against the blue and green backdrop. It works well for beach settings or wedding and honeymoon shots with the boulders behind but it might not be the best for aerial shots with granite boulders.
💛 BRIGHT YELLOW
Yellow is a lively color that evokes sunshine and happiness, it pops against the greenery and creates an energetic vibe in your photos. Perfect for UNESCO site Vallee de Mai and for a lively contrast of granite boulders. However, avoid very pale yellows that might wash out against lighter backgrounds.
🧡 ORANGE
A vibrant and cheerful shade, orange stands out beautifully against the blue waters and greenery in Vallee de Mai, as it creates a warm glow in your photos. It is also great if you are planning to book a drone photoshoot on Anse Source d’Argent.
❤️ RED
While it pops, I wouldn’t recommend it as much in tropical settings compared to other colors. However, a red swimsuit looks nice for photos in Crystal Water Kayak.
🩷 CORAL PINK
This playful color captures the essence of the tropics. Coral adds warmth to your images and works well with the natural surroundings, making it a great choice for beach settings, photos in a kayak, and drone shots!
🩵 TURQUOISE
This color mirrors the stunning ocean and enhances your beach photos. It adds a refreshing touch against the sandy backdrop. Great for photos in Crystal Water Kayak.
💙 BLUE
A versatile and calming color, blue can complement the ocean beautifully. Light blues can be stunning against the backdrop of the sea, while darker blues might not stand out as much. Great for photos in Crystal Water Kayak but not for aerial shots.
💚 GREEN
Wearing green can help you blend into the lush scenery, especially if you choose a shade similar to the surrounding foliage. It’s a great choice for hikes or nature walks but may not provide the best contrast in tropical photos.
🖤 BLACK
Black can provide a chic look, and contrasts well with the sand. Combined with brighter and bolder colors can work well with greenery, but it might make you blend in with darker backgrounds.
When planning your outfits, aim for bright and bold colors to ensure you stand out against the stunning landscapes of Seychelles!
Toiletries and Personal Care
I don’t like to travel with too much stuff, but at the same time, I do agree that bringing the right personal care items can make your trip smoother and more comfortable.
Here’s a streamlined list of essentials to bring with you when visiting Seychelles:
☐ Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protect your skin from the intense tropical sun with a high SPF, even if it’s cloudy! Bonus points if you go for reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the marine environment as well.
☐ Lip balm with SPF
Your lips need protection too! Bring a lip balm with SPF to prevent chapping and sunburn. I learned my lesson in the Grand Canyon and the Death Valley.
☐ Aloe Vera gel
Perfect for soothing your skin after long days in the sun or if you happen to get sunburnt (it happened to all of us)
☐ Moisturizer
The tropical sun and salt water can dry out your skin, so pack a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
☐ Insect repellent
There is NO malaria in Seychelles, but mosquitos are. There are more of them during the wet season and in the evenings. Bring a good repellent to avoid bites.
☐ Shampoo and Conditioner
Choose travel-sized bottles or start using bar ones! If possible use ones that are sulfate-free and eco-friendly.
☐ Toothbrush and toothpaste
Basic personal care essentials for oral hygiene! I love my small Curaprox travel set.
☐ Deodorant
Choose a travel-friendly, long-lasting deodorant that will keep you feeling fresh throughout the day. I love Wild deodorants which come with a nice reusable case.
☐ Hand sanitizer
Always useful, especially when you’re on an airplane and on the go, and don’t have access to water and soap.
☐ Wet wipes
Handy for freshening up during long travel days or after long days of exploring.
☐ Menstrual cup
I swear by it! It is a reusable, eco-friendly alternative to tampons or pads. It provides up to 12 hours of protection, making it perfect for active days in Seychelles, and it’s compact, easy to clean, and reduces waste. Menstrual cup is ideal for travel!
Accessories
The right accessories can elevate your comfort and style. From protecting yourself from the sun to adding flair to your honeymoon island outfits, packing a few key items will help you stay prepared and look good throughout your trip.
Here are some key accessories to consider packing for your vacation in Seychelles:
☐ Sunglasses with UV-protection
Protect your eyes from the bright sun with a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses. Choose polarized lenses for better clarity and glare reduction while you’re on the water or the beach.
☐ Wide-brimmed hat
A stylish wide-brimmed hat offers extra sun protection for your face and neck while adding a chic touch to your beachwear. Look for a hat that is lightweight and breathable.
☐ Lightweight scarf or sarong
A versatile scarf or sarong can be used as a cover-up, beach blanket, or even a headwrap. Choose a color that complements your swimwear or outfits for added flair.
☐ Beach bag
A spacious beach tote is perfect for carrying your essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and a towel. Opt for a light and durable design that can handle all the sand.
☐ Jewelry
Pack minimal and lightweight jewelry to add a touch of elegance to your beach outfits. Opt for materials that won’t be damaged by saltwater or sand.
☐ Dry bag or Waterproof bag
A waterproof bag is great for keeping your valuables safe and dry while you’re at the beach or out on a boat. It is also great in case of unexpected rain. I never used mine, but if you are going to Crystal Water Kayak tour, you will get one there.
☐ Snorkeling gear
Although you can get it at organized tours, I recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel. It will be more hygienic and you can use it on various beaches where it might be hard to get a mask.
☐ Travel umbrella or Lightweight rain jacket
Tropical rain showers are common in Seychelles, so packing a travel umbrella or rain jacket will help you stay dry without taking up too much space.
Tech and Travel Gear
Bringing the right tech and travel gear can make your trip to Seychelles smoother. From having you battery full to take breathtaking photos to staying connected or keeping your devices charged during adventures.
Here is a recommended list of tech gear to pack for your Seychelles travel:
☐ Chargers and Cords
Don’t forget to pack chargers and the necessary cords for your devices — phone, camera, and any other electronics. It’s always good to have an extra cable in case one gets damaged or you lose it (like me).
☐ Universal Travel Adapter
Seychelles uses plug type (G) (UK-style), so make sure to pack a universal travel adapter to charge all your electronics.
☐ Power Bank
With long beach days and outdoor adventures, a fully charged power bank will keep your devices powered up on the go, to take a lot of amazing shots.
☐ Waterproof phone case
Protect your phone from water and sand with a waterproof case during beach days or boat trips, and capture marine life while snorkeling, or other water activities.
☐ Portable tripod
Great for solo travelers or group shots. A compact, portable tripod will help you capture steady photos and time-lapses, especially for sunsets and beach views. I don’t have one but it would come in handy if I did.
☐ Noise-canceling headphones
Useful for flights or ferry rides when you want to block out background noise and relax.
☐ Flashlight or headlamp
Great for evening hikes or bike rides on the islands, as there’s no public lighting after sunset. I found them especially useful in La Digue. A headlamp is even better as it keeps your hands free.
Are drones allowed in Seychelles
Yes, you can bring and fly a drone in Seychelles and yes, you can get the perfect aerial shots of the most famous beach in La Digue.
There are specific regulations you must follow, such as registering your drone with SCAA if it weighs more than 200 grams, and adhering to local flight restrictions. For the latest drone laws and guidelines, have a look at Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).
I don’t have a drone, but would LOVE to have a small palm-sized one like DJI NEO. (Want to be my secret santa?)
However, even if you don’t have one, or don’t want to travel with your drone, you can still get stunning shots on Anse Source d’Argent beach. Just book a professional photoshoot (like I did) and get stunning drone shots of this iconic location.
Before and when traveling to Seychelles, ALWAYS MAKE SURE to check drone regulations of countries where you have a stop over. Some countries, like Egypt, Oman, Turkey, Vietnam, Cuba etc., customs may seize them if you do not have the necessary documentation.
Carry-on or Check-in / Backpack or Suitcase?
Choosing between a backpack or suitcase for Seychelles depends on your travel style and activities. Personally, I prefer to travel light, usually with just a carry-on, but for Seychelles, I also bring check-in luggage.
For my carry-on, I use two D__b__ backpacks: a small white one for essentials (documents, water bottle, etc.) that fits under the plane seat, and either a 21L Ramverk Backpack in sunset or a 30L Hugger Backpack in orange for additional items.
On my first two trips, I used a 40L backpack for my check-in, but I’ve since switched to a suitcase for ease.
But, what should you choose?
Bring a small backpack for island hopping, hiking and riding a bike, and a suitcase or roller bag for your check-in. It’s more convenient to transport and leaves room for those must-have Seychelles souvenirs!
What to Leave Behind
When packing for Seychelles, there are several items you can leave behind.
Heavy clothing like jackets and jeans are unnecessary in the warm tropical climate; instead, opt for light, breathable attire.
High heels or formal shoes won’t be practical for the sandy beaches and laid-back vibe. You should also leave the worries behind and save space for souvenirs. You know what they say – “Pack half as much and take twice the money.”
Seychelles is filled with unique things that you can bring home. Be sure to leave some room in your suitcase for a bottle of Takama rum, or maybe even Coco de Mer.
Trust me, you won’t want to leave the islands without a piece of Seychelles with you!
Free Seychelles Packing List PDF
To help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget anything essential for your trip, I’ve created a FREE Seychelles Packing List PDF that you can download.
It’s FREE, one-click download and no email required.
I find email signups for one-page freebies really annoying, so I don’t do them. I offer 40+ page travel guides in exchange for your email, because I respect your privacy and want to provide real value.
Plus, If you wish to sign up for my newsletter, you can do that at your own convenience.
In addition, you can also download a FREE printable travel planning form to assist you in mapping out your itinerary and keeping track of your travel plans.
Both resources are designed to make your travel preparation easier and more enjoyable, so be sure to grab them before you start packing for Seychelles!
Feel free to print out as many copies as you need, and don’t forget to share them with your fellow travel friends!
Final thoughts on the Seychelles packing list
So there you have it, my essentials on what to pack for Seychelles.
I hope this packing guide helps you create your Seychelles packing list and prepares you for your dream vacation! Remember that packing light and smart is the key to enjoying your tropical getaway.
Focus on lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, and sun protection. Don’t forget your travel documents and any necessary gear for snorkeling or hiking! Leave behind bulky items and unnecessary formal wear to make room for unique souvenirs that will remind you of your adventure.
Now that you’re ready to visit paradise, check out my other Seychelles Travel guide for recommendations on where to stay in Seychelles, tips for Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, the best hikes, must-do activities, stunning beaches, and a suggested first-time itinerary. You’ll also find some interesting facts about Seychelles to spark your excitement!
➤ Read more Seychelles travel guides
• Perfect first-timers Seychelles Itinerary
• How to get to La Digue island in the Seychelles, from Mahé or Praslin
• 15 Top things to do in La Digue, Seychelles (+ Map!)
• Crystal Kayak La Digue: The Ultimate Seychelles Epic Adventure Tour
• 101+ Seychelles Captions for Instagram
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