Andaman Packing List: What to Bring for the Islands
An Andaman packing list: light clothes, reef-safe sun care, water shoes, a dry bag, documents, cash and medicines, and what to leave behind.
The Andamans are warm and humid all year. You need light clothes, sun protection and a few things for the sea. The islands also have limited shops, so bring the essentials.
This list covers what to pack and what to leave at home.
Boats and mangroves at Havelock.
Category | Items |
|---|---|
Clothes | Light cotton, swimwear, a cover-up, one smart outfit |
Sun | Hat, sunglasses, reef-friendly sunscreen |
Water | Water shoes, dry bag, quick-dry towel |
Documents | ID, permits, ferry and hotel confirmations |
Health | Personal medicines, motion sickness tablets, insect repellent |
Money | Cash, as ATMs can be limited |
Clothes
Pack light, quick-drying clothes. Evenings are warm, so you rarely need a jacket, but a thin layer helps on boats. Swimwear and a cover-up are enough for most beaches. Bring modest clothes for town and temples.
Sun and sea
The sun is strong. Use a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and choose a reef-friendly type if you can. Water shoes help on rocky and coral shores. A dry bag protects your phone and papers on boats. See our snorkelling guide.
Documents and permits
Carry your ID and the permits. Indian and foreign visitors have different rules. See the permit guide. Keep digital and paper copies of ferry and hotel bookings. See the ferry guide.
Health
Bring your own medicines, plus basic items such as motion sickness tablets, antiseptic and insect repellent. Pharmacies are fewer on the smaller islands.
Money and phone
Carry some cash, because card machines and ATMs can be unreliable on the smaller islands. Mobile signal is patchy, so download maps and tickets in advance.
What to leave behind
Heavy luggage. Ferries have limits.
Plastic bottles where you can. Bring a reusable bottle.
Valuables you do not need.
Season notes
Monsoon months need a light rain jacket. See the monsoon guide and the general packing guide.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear in the Andaman?
Light cotton and swimwear.
Do I need a jacket?
Not usually, except in the rainy months.
Should I bring cash?
Yes, as ATMs can be limited.
Do I need water shoes?
They help on coral and rocky shores.
Is sunscreen available there?
It is, but bring your preferred brand.
Plan your Andaman trip with us
We send a custom checklist with your itinerary and confirm permits and ferries. Explore the Andaman destination page or talk to a trip designer.
Photo credits
Photo reused from our Havelock guides. The credit is listed there, via Wikimedia Commons.
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