Packing Checklist — Hiking in Madeira 3/27/2027

Suggested

Chargers/Adapters

Device chargers and electrical adapters (and a converter if needed); portable charger/power bank

Clothing

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing that mixes and matches easily. Bring 5-6 outfits so you don't have to do laundry. Layer strategically and check the weather and itinerary sections to be realistic about what you'll actually need.

Light windproof/waterproof jacket

Daypack

Small backpack to carry water, camera, and essentials while exploring

Walking shoes

One good pair of broken-in, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes is essential

Sport sandals or flip-flops

Water activities, hotel floors, or just to keep your feet cool and comfortable

Rain protection

Windproof rain jacket, poncho, or small travel umbrella

Swim items

Swimsuit, quick-dry towel, slip-on sandals

Sun protection

Sun block, sunglasses, hat

Flashlight or headlamp

Insect repellant

Consider DEET-based or a strong natural alternative

First Aid Kit

Including: lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking

Toiletries

Basic toiletries (some hotels may not provide all items, esp. conditioner); small amount of biodegradable soap for laundry

Optional

Rehydration powder

Like Gatorade, Liquid IV or Nuun

Sleep accessories

Travel pillow, lightweight silk sleep sheet, earplugs

Organization aids

AirTags or Tile trackers, bag locks, packing cubes, ziplock bags

Money belt

Hand sanitizer/baby wipes

Flashlight or headlamp

Reusable water bottle

Snacks

Packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy

Hiking poles

Documents

Passport

G Adventures voucher(s)

Entry Requirements

Any required visas, travel authorizations, vaccine certificates, etc.

Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)

Cash and credit/debit card(s)

Travel insurance ID card

GEEO Classroom action plans for your group

This will be emailed to you a week before your trip

Hiking Items

Trail shoes or light hiking boots

Prioritize soles designed for wet friction. Levada paths have damp concrete ledges, wet wooden footbridges, and slick cobblestones; Ponta de São Lourenço involves loose, dry volcanic scree.

Wool socks

Medium-cushion wool regulates temperature, buffers impact, and prevents blisters better than synthetics.

Moisture-wicking base layers

Synthetic or merino wool tops. Avoid cotton.

Insulating Mid-Layer

Lightweight grid fleece or a packable synthetic down jacket for high-elevation pauses or cold mornings.

Hiking pants/shorts

Quick-dry, stretch-woven fabric. Convertible pants work well for fluctuating temperatures.

Thermal underwear

For hiking Pico do Arieiro, the coldest part of the trip)

Hard-Shell Rain Jacket

Fully waterproof, windproof, breathable with taped seams and an adjustable hood.

Headwear & Buff

A wide-brim hat or baseball cap for sun, a thin beanie for cold snaps, and a versatile seamless neck gaiter/Buff.

Sun Protection

Polarized UV sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and broad-spectrum SPF lip balm.

Dry Bags / Waterproof Liners

Ultra-light dry sacks or heavy-duty Ziplock bags to keep electronics and spare socks dry inside your pack.

Electrolyte Packets

Nuun or Liquid I.V. to maintain hydration on warm or exposed stretches.

Trail Hygiene Kit

Travel hand sanitizer, travel pack of tissues/wipes, and a small Ziplock bag to pack out trash (Leave No Trace).

Blister kit

Compeed blister plasters, Leukotape, and an anti-friction stick (like BodyGlide).

Headlamp (important!)

200–300 lumens with fresh batteries or a USB charging cable.

Hydration System (2L Total Capacity)

A 2L reservoir/bladder or two 1L rigid water bottles.

Hiking Poles

If you like to hike with poles. You can also normally buy an inexpensive pair on-site. Email [email protected] for more information.

Whistle

Check your daypack sternum strap buckle—most modern packs have one built directly into the clip.