Baja Whale Shark Expedition Packing List
Getting your Baja California packing list right for our Whale Shark Expedition is the key to a comfortable ocean adventure. While there are many things you can buy in Baja, let’s just say that the places we will visit are not the most geared up with travel supplies. This means that coming prepared is extra important, even more so than your usual holiday.
This guide is here to help you to pack everything you need to keep warm, dry, and comfortable throughout your trip 🙂
Essential Items to Bring to Baja
Before we dive into the full list of everything you’ll need for our trip to Baja, here are our top packing essentials:
- A torch will be helpful to get back to your casita after the bonfire. We recommend a headtorch by Petzl.
- Electrolyte packets – we recommend LMNT.
- A large water bottle.
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed sun hat or cap with neck protection
- A microfibre towel
- A light layer for breezy evenings (hoodie or thin fleece)
- A light windbreaker, mornings can be mild in October
- Travel insurance
Clothing
October in Bahía de los Ángeles brings warm days, mild evenings, and generally calm, sunny conditions on the water. You won’t need heavy layers, but you will want lightweight, breathable clothing that protects you from the sun and keeps you comfortable during long days on the boat.
- Light windbreaker or sun hoodie:A lightweight layer is perfect for breezy mornings or when the boat is moving at speed. A full waterproof jacket isn’t necessary in October, but a windbreaker or UPF sun hoodie is ideal.
- Light fleece or hoodie: Evenings can cool off slightly, so one light mid‑layer is all you need.
- Breathable long‑sleeve shirts: UPF shirts are especially helpful for sun protection during whale shark searches.
- Comfortable shorts and quick‑dry clothing: You’ll be in and out of the water, so quick‑dry fabrics make life easier.
- Loungewear for around camp: Something comfortable for relaxing after long days on the water.
Other Essentials
- Wide-brimmed sun hat or cap with neck protection: The sun in Baja is intense; shade for your face and neck is crucial when you’re out on the water or walking along the coast.
- UV-protected sunglasses and head strap: Polarized lenses are highly recommended, as they reduce surface glare and allow you to see more clearly into the water. Most standard sunglasses aren’t polarized, so investing in a good pair can really enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
Snorkel Gear
One of the highlights of this expedition is the chance to slip into the water and experience Baja’s marine life up close. From playful sea lions to the gentle giants we’re here to see, whale sharks!
The ocean in Bahía de los Ángeles is warm in October (75-82°F / 24-28°C), which means most guests are perfectly comfortable swimming without a wetsuit.
- We ask all guests to bring their own mask and snorkel. These vary a lot by face shape, and a poor fit can really impact your experience in the water – think leaking, fogging, or just general discomfort that distracts from what is happening around you. Having gear that fits you well makes a genuine difference.
- We have fins available on site, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you have a pair that fits you well.
- If you tend to get cold easily or want to stay in the water for longer periods, you’re welcome to bring a 1-2mm shorty wetsuit, but it’s completely optional.
Getting in is always optional, and you’ll still have an incredible time even if you prefer to stay on the boat. But if you do choose to swim, expect warm water, great visibility, and unforgettable moments with Baja’s marine life.
Shoes
Having the right footwear on our Baja adventure is important. You’ll be stepping in and out of shallow water when getting into the boats, so choosing shoes that can handle wet landings is key.
- Comfortable walking shoes: A pair of lightweight shoes with good traction is perfect for around the lodge and exploring on land.
- Flip-flops/sandals: A pair of relaxed shoes for chilling out at camp.
- Water‑friendly footwear: Water‑resistant sport sandals (like Chacos), closed‑toed aqua shoes, or sturdy water shoes are ideal for wet landings and getting in and out of the pangas. These dry quickly and stay secure on your feet.
- Optional: If you prefer to keep your feet dry once you’re on the boat, you can bring a pair of dry shoes (like trainers) and socks in your daypack to change into after boarding.
Bags
Aside from your main pack, you may also want to consider a few other bags, too!
- Main Backpack or suitcase. We can also personally recommend the Osprey Aether 65 (the female version is the Ariel)
- Day Bag: a smaller bag to take with you on our daily excursions will come in handy.
- Hanging toiletry bag: This is a serious game changer!
- Bum bag: Never a bad idea. Easy to carry and access essentials.
- Waterproof dry bag: To protect your camera gear and personal items during boat excursions.
Essential Travel Accessories
A few personal items that we highly recommend you bring to Baja:
- UV-protected sunglasses and a head strap: Good polarized lenses are highly recommended, as they reduce surface glare and allow you to see more clearly into the water (a big plus when spotting marine animals!)
- Earplugs: Unless you’re one of those bloody lucky people who can fall asleep anywhere, these are always a good addition to your packing list.
- Eye mask: A good eye mask absolutely changed my life (dramatic but true)
- Universal travel adaptor
- Kindle: they are lightweight to carry, and you won’t find more beautiful places to read!
- Reusable Water Bottle: Saving the planet one less plastic water bottle at a time!
- Playing cards and games: always worth having!
- A journal: to record some of your thoughts and observations.
Toiletries
These are pretty self-explanatory, and everyone’s toiletries will be different, but here are a few key things to bring in your toiletry bag:
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Bodywash/shampoo
- Deodorant
- Biodegradable sunscreen: Baja’s sun is strong year-round, even on overcast days.
- Lip balm with SPF
- Pads/tampons
- Whatever else you’ll need!
Medication
The vast majority of meds can be purchased over the counter in Baja, but we still recommend coming prepared with anything you know you’ll want to have handy.
- Sea sickness meds (if needed): Boat rides can be choppy. It’s better to be prepared if you’re unsure how your body handles motion.
- Prescription medicines
- Paracetamol, Advil and/or Aspirin
- Antibacterial gel for cuts, scrapes, etc.
- Antihistamines
- Band Aids
You can pick up a compact first aid kit with a few essentials and add your own.
Electronics
These are by no means essential, but they might be handy to bring along with you.
- Power Bank: You’ll want fully-charged devices!
- Headphones: For travel journeys or downtime
- Camera or GoPro (if you own one)
Personal Documents
You don’t want to forget these. We recommend making copies of everything, including your travel insurance coverage docs:
- Passport copies: Just in case!
- Passport
- Visa (if you require one)
- Travel Insurance: While it might not be a requirement to enter Baja California, travel insurance is mandatory to adventure with Elsewheria.