What to Pack for a Similan Islands Day Trip

Pack light for the Similan Islands. You will move between a hotel transfer, a busy pier, a fast boat, beaches and snorkelling stops. A small waterproof day bag is much easier than a large suitcase or loose shopping bags.

Use this checklist, then compare it with the final confirmation because inclusions vary by trip.

Essential packing list

• Swimwear worn under your clothes
• Light, quick-drying clothing
• Reef-safe sun protection
• Hat that can be secured
• Sunglasses with a strap
• Secure sandals or water shoes
• Small towel if the final confirmation does not include one
• Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
• Any required prescription medication
• A small amount of cash
• Copy or photo of your passport identification page if requested
• Refillable water bottle if permitted by the current park and onboard rules

Avoid bringing jewellery, unnecessary electronics and anything that would be difficult to replace.

What the current standard tour normally includes

Check your chosen trip and booking confirmation for these inclusions:

• Return transfers from approved zones
• Snorkelling equipment
• Guide
• Meals in the programme
• Water, soft drinks and fruit
• National park fees
• Fins and towel for the Similan programme
• Tourist accident insurance, subject to policy conditions and age limits

Inclusions are product-specific. Always use the booking confirmation as the final source.

Do I need my own snorkelling gear?

Basic mask, snorkel and fins are normally supplied. Bringing your own well-fitting mask can be worthwhile if you already own one.

Check prescription-mask availability before booking. Do not assume every boat carries every prescription or size.

If you use the supplied equipment:

• Test the mask fit before departure
• Tell the team immediately if a strap or buckle is damaged
• Keep track of the equipment issued to you
• Return it at the instructed point

Footwear for the beach and viewpoint

Bare feet may be comfortable on soft sand but are not ideal for hot surfaces, wet steps or the Island 8 viewpoint.

Choose footwear that:

• Stays on securely
• Can get wet
• Has reasonable grip
• Is easy to remove if the crew requires it onboard

The Sailing Rock route includes steep and uneven sections. Flip-flops are not the best choice for the climb.

Sun and heat protection

The tropical sun can be strong even when clouds make the day feel cooler.

Use:

• Long-sleeved rash vest
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Reef-safer sunscreen applied according to the product instructions
• Shade whenever available
• Regular drinking water

Do not apply oily products immediately before using shared masks or equipment.

Keeping valuables dry

A boat is a wet environment. Spray, wet swimmers and sudden rain can reach bags that never fall into the sea.

Use:

• Proper roll-top dry bag
• Waterproof phone case
• Separate sealed pouch for documents and medication

Test a waterproof phone case before trusting it in open water. Keep the phone attached to you rather than holding it loose above a reef.

Medication and motion sickness

Bring enough prescribed medication for a delayed return. Keep it in its original packaging and in a waterproof container.

For motion sickness, ask a pharmacist or doctor before the trip. Some medicines can cause drowsiness and may not be suitable for every person.

Food and dietary requirements

Tell us about vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free or allergy requirements before the booking is confirmed.

We will check which dietary requests can be accommodated before you book. Serious allergies require a specific discussion; do not rely on a generic buffet label.

Bringing a suitable sealed snack may help if permitted onboard, but remember that national park waste and plastic rules apply.

What not to bring

• Large suitcases unless a transfer arrangement has been confirmed
• Single-use plastic items prohibited by current park rules
• Alcohol
• Drones without the required permissions
• Fishing equipment
• Food intended for feeding wildlife
• Coral, shells, sand or natural souvenirs

Take photographs and memories home, not parts of the national park.

The night-before checklist

1. Confirm pickup time and meeting point.

2. Put swimwear under your clothes.

3. Charge your phone and camera.

4. Pack medication and sun protection.

5. Use a small waterproof bag.

6. Tell reception about the early collection.

7. Sleep early and avoid heavy alcohol.

If you are unsure whether an item is included, send us a WhatsApp message before the trip rather than buying it at the pier.