What Should You Pack for Seychelles?
The Seychelles’ tropical climate means lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. Pack swimsuits, shorts, and tank tops for beach days and water activities. A light cover-up or shawl is useful for the evenings. A rain jacket is handy during the rainy season. Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are ideal for beach walks, while water shoes can be useful for snorkeling or exploring rocky beaches. Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen are necessary for protection from the strong sun. For cooler evenings, a light sweater may come in handy.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Relax on the white sandy beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and explore nature reserves like Vallée de Mai.
What to Wear in Seychelles
The dress code in Seychelles is laid-back and beach-friendly, but modest attire is appreciated in public areas, especially on the main islands. Women should pack light cover-ups or dresses when walking around towns, and men should wear t-shirts and longer shorts. Swimsuits are acceptable on the beach, but when exploring local markets or religious sites, it’s best to cover up. Smart-casual clothing is appropriate for dining at resort restaurants in the evenings.
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Spring
75 – 85°F
(24 – 29°C
)
Summer
80 – 90°F
(27 – 32°C
)
Fall
75 – 85°F
(24 – 29°C
)
Winter
70 – 80°F
(21 – 27°C
)
Spring: Warm and humid
Summer: Hot and sunny, with tropical rain showers
Fall: Warm and pleasant with cooler evenings
Winter: Warm with frequent rain and tropical storms
Spring
6 inches of rain
Summer
5 inches of rain
Fall
6 inches of rain
Winter
7 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for warm days spent exploring the beaches or towns like Victoria.
2. Tank Tops: Perfect for lounging by the pool or walking along the beach.
3. Rain Jacket: A lightweight rain jacket is helpful for tropical rain showers, especially during the monsoon season.
4. Casual Jacket: A light sweater or jacket is useful for cooler evenings or breezy beach walks.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Comfortable shorts are ideal for casual beach walks and exploring the island.
2. Skirt: A long skirt is great for dinners at the resort or strolling around the towns.
3. Dresses: Light, flowy dresses are perfect for beach days and evenings out.
4. Jumpsuit: A stylish jumpsuit works well for casual dinners and evening activities.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Sandals: Comfortable sandals are perfect for walking on the beach and around the islands.
2. Flip-Flops: Ideal for beach walks or poolside lounging.
3. Swimsuit: A must for enjoying the beach, pool, or water activities like snorkeling and kayaking.
4. Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the strong tropical sun.
5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is perfect for sun protection during beach days or while exploring the islands.
6. Water Shoes: Great for snorkeling, swimming, or walking on rocky beaches.
6. Beach Cover-Up: A lightweight cover-up is great for transitioning from the beach to casual dining.
6. Sarong: A versatile sarong is great for the beach and can double as a cover-up.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for packing beach essentials and for island hopping.
2. Beach Bag: Useful for carrying towels, sunscreen, and water bottles during beach days.
3. Daypack: Perfect for exploring nature reserves like Vallée de Mai or taking island tours.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for the intense tropical sun.
- Waterproof Gear: Bring water shoes and waterproof phone cases for water sports and snorkeling.
- Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting towns, local markets, or religious sites.
Seychelles Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SEYCHELLES?
The best time to visit Seychelles is from April to May and October to November, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving. May’s also great because the weather is calm, making it perfect for exploring the islands without the crowds.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SEYCHELLES?
Seychelles Carnival (April): A lively international carnival with vibrant parades, music, and dancers—great for families and cultural travelers.
La Digue Festival (August 15): A celebration of traditional Seychellois culture, featuring local music, dance, and food—perfect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
Creole Festival (October): A week-long festival celebrating Creole heritage through food, music, and art—ideal for solo travelers and families.
Seychelles Sailing Cup (January): A major sailing competition with races and events held on the turquoise waters around the islands—great for adventure lovers and sailing enthusiasts.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SEYCHELLES?
Seychelles is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. Start with Mahé, the largest island, where you can visit the capital, Victoria, explore the botanical gardens, and relax on the beaches of Beau Vallon. One of my favorite places is La Digue Island, known for its stunning beaches like Anse Source d’Argent, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. For diving and snorkeling, head to the island of Praslin, home to the famous Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the Aldabra Atoll, the world’s largest raised coral atoll and a haven for wildlife.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SEYCHELLES?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring Seychelles’ islands, beaches, and natural beauty. A shorter 5-day trip will give you enough time to enjoy the beaches and visit key highlights like Mahé and La Digue.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore the capital, Victoria, visit the botanical gardens, and relax on the beach at Beau Vallon. Day 2: Take a boat trip to La Digue Island to visit Anse Source d’Argent and enjoy the stunning beaches.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, visit Praslin Island and explore Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, followed by snorkeling at Anse Lazio Beach. Day 4: Take a boat tour to Curieuse Island to see the giant tortoises. Day 5: Return to Mahé for shopping, dining, and a sunset cruise.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, visit Silhouette Island for a day of hiking and snorkeling. Day 7: Spend a day at leisure, relaxing on the beaches or enjoying water sports at Beau Vallon Beach.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, take a scenic flight over the Aldabra Atoll, known for its wildlife and coral reefs. Day 9: Explore the beaches of Anse Intendance on Mahé, known for its scenic beauty. Day 10: Visit the Mission Lodge Lookout for panoramic views of Mahé’s forested interior.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit the secluded beaches of Desroches Island and enjoy diving and fishing. Day 12: Take a sailing trip around the inner islands of the Seychelles. Day 13: Visit the Seychelles National Park for a day of hiking and wildlife spotting. Day 14: Spend a final day on La Digue, relaxing and exploring the island by bicycle.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SEYCHELLES?
2 Days
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
5 Days
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
1 Week
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
10 Days
- 3 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip-Flops
2 Weeks
- 4 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip-Flops
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SEYCHELLES?
Heavy clothing: Seychelles’ tropical climate makes lightweight clothing more practical.
High heels: Impractical for beach days or island activities—opt for sandals or flip-flops instead.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SEYCHELLES ?
Airfare: $900-$2,000 depending on the season and location, with higher prices during holiday periods.
Accommodation: $150-$700 per night, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury beach resorts.
Transportation: $30-$100 for taxis, ferries, or domestic flights between islands.
Meals: $20-$100 per day, with cheaper options at local eateries and higher prices at resorts.
Activities: $50-$200 depending on snorkeling, diving, and boat tours around the islands.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SEYCHELLES? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated in Seychelles but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included. For hotel staff, $1-$3 per service is appropriate, and for guides or drivers, tipping $5-$10 per day is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SEYCHELLES BEFORE I VISIT?
- Sun Protection: Seychelles is near the equator, so sun protection is a must—use high-SPF sunscreen and wear hats.
- Currency: The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the local currency, but credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas.
- Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but bottled water is readily available.
- Language: Seychellois Creole, English, and French are widely spoken, so you’ll have no trouble communicating.