What to Bring on an Island Tour from Phuket

Pack Smart for Your Island Day

A day-long island tour from Phuket means 8 to 12 hours away from your hotel, mostly on water and beaches. Packing the right items makes the difference between a comfortable, enjoyable day and a frustrating one. This checklist covers everything you need and some things you should leave behind.

Essential Items

Sun Protection

• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): This is the single most important item on the list. The tropical sun in Thailand is intense, and you will be exposed all day. Apply before boarding the boat and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming. Choose mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) without oxybenzone or octinoxate, as these chemicals damage coral reefs. Many national parks are cracking down on non-reef-safe sunscreen.
• Sunglasses with a strap: Polarized lenses are ideal for cutting water glare. A strap prevents them from falling into the sea during the boat ride.
• Hat or cap: A wide-brimmed hat provides the best coverage but can blow off on speedboats. A baseball cap with a secure fit works well for boat rides; switch to a wider hat at the beach.

Swimwear and Clothing

• Swimsuit: Wear it under your clothes so you are ready to swim at any stop.
• Rash guard or UV shirt: Highly recommended. It provides sun protection, reduces sunscreen use, and protects against jellyfish stings. A long-sleeve rash guard is ideal.
• Light cover-up or quick-dry shorts: For wearing between stops on the boat.
• Change of clothes: Pack dry clothes in a sealed bag for the ride home. You will be more comfortable changing after the last water activity.

Waterproofing

• Dry bag: A waterproof bag (available in Phuket for 100 to 300 THB) is essential. It keeps your phone, wallet, and camera safe from sea spray and rain. A 10 to 20 liter size is ideal for a day trip.
• Waterproof phone case: If you want to take photos in the water, a waterproof phone pouch (100 to 200 THB at any tourist shop) lets you use your phone while swimming and snorkeling.

Footwear

• Water shoes or sport sandals: You will need shoes that can get wet when wading from the boat to shore. Flip-flops tend to float away or break in the surf. Sport sandals with a secure strap (like Teva or similar) or lightweight water shoes are the best choice.

Snorkeling Gear

• Tour-provided gear: All tours provide basic masks, snorkels, and fins. The quality varies, with some operators offering better equipment than others.
• Your own mask (optional but recommended): If you snorkel frequently, bringing your own mask ensures a good fit, which prevents leaking and fogging. A well-fitting mask makes a huge difference in your snorkeling experience. You can buy a decent mask in Phuket for 300 to 800 THB.

Nice to Have

• Underwater camera or GoPro: The snorkeling at most Phuket island destinations is photogenic. A GoPro or similar action camera produces much better underwater photos than a phone in a waterproof case.
• Motion sickness medication: If you have any tendency toward seasickness, take medication (Dramamine, ginger tablets, or similar) at least 30 minutes before boarding. Even mild sensitivity can be triggered by a bouncy speedboat ride.
• Insect repellent: Useful for Phang Nga Bay tours (mangrove areas have mosquitoes) and late afternoon stops on any island.
• Small towel or microfiber towel: Some tours provide towels, many do not. A compact microfiber towel takes up little space and dries quickly.
• Reusable water bottle: Tours provide drinking water, but having your own bottle ensures you stay hydrated between refills.
• Snacks: Tours include lunch and usually some fruit or cookies, but bringing a few energy bars or crackers is smart, especially if you are a bigger eater.
• Cash (Thai Baht): 500 to 1,000 THB for extras like drinks, souvenirs, or optional activities at the islands. Some stops have small shops but no card payment.

What to Leave Behind

• Jewelry: Leave rings, necklaces, and watches at the hotel safe. Saltwater is harsh on metals, and items can easily slip off wet hands.
• Bulky valuables: Laptops, tablets, and expensive cameras (unless waterproof) are at risk of water damage and theft when left unattended on the boat.
• Thick towels: They take up too much space and take forever to dry. Use a microfiber towel instead.
• Too much cash: Bring only what you need for the day.
• Non-reef-safe sunscreen: Help protect the reefs that make these islands worth visiting.

Packing Checklist Summary

• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Sunglasses with strap
• Hat or cap
• Swimsuit (worn under clothes)
• Rash guard
• Quick-dry shorts or cover-up
• Dry change of clothes in sealed bag
• Dry bag (10 to 20 liters)
• Waterproof phone case
• Water shoes or sport sandals
• Own snorkel mask (optional)
• Motion sickness medication (if needed)
• Insect repellent
• Microfiber towel
• Cash (500 to 1,000 THB)
• Snacks

With these items packed, you will be ready for a comfortable and enjoyable day exploring the islands around Phuket. See our available tours to choose your next island adventure, and check our guide on what to expect on a speedboat tour for a full walkthrough of the day.