1
Reef-safe sunscreen
Mineral (zinc-oxide) only. Chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate are increasingly restricted because they bleach coral.
In one line
Plan for humid beach heat, conservative villages and a fragile reef. Reef-safe sunscreen, modest cover-ups, cash and quick-dry clothes are the four things most travellers under-pack. Don't be most travellers.
01 — Bring this
The essentials list.
2
Light, quick-dry clothes
Two swimsuits, sarongs, cotton tees, a light long-sleeve for sun cover, one pair of shorts or pants for village walks.
3
Cash in mixed denominations
ATMs are limited and often offline. Most homestays accept UPI but small purchases need cash. Carry ₹ 8–10K minimum per traveller.
4
Underwater camera
Even a basic action cam will transform the trip. Bring a floating wrist strap.
5
Personal medication
Pharmacies on smaller islands are sparse. Bring everything you take regularly plus basic anti-allergic and motion-sickness tablets.
6
Reusable bottle & tote
Single-use plastic is restricted island-wide. Carry your own.
7
Headlamp / torch
Power blinks occasionally. A headlamp is invaluable on tented stays and late-night beach walks.
8
Modest cover-up
For walking through villages and visiting mosques — shoulders and knees covered is the local norm.
02 — Leave this
Things that won’t make it past customs — or shouldn’t.
- Large hard-shell luggage. Soft duffels are easier to handle on boats and island jetties.
- Drones. Banned without prior security clearance.
- Single-use plastic bottles and bags. Bring a reusable bottle and tote instead.
- Chemical sunscreens. Reef-toxic. Replace before you leave.
- Heavy hiking boots. Sandals and reef shoes are all you’ll wear.
- Outdoor music speakers. Beach noise is discouraged out of respect for the community.