Start with the days you have planned
A universal list can make you carry things you will not use. Before closing your bag, check the itinerary: how many beach days, how many walks, and which visits call for closed shoes or a booking? Check the season and forecast shortly before leaving, with room for a change of plan. Wind and temperatures can differ between coast, inland and evening.
Do not pack specialist equipment for an activity you have not confirmed. If you plan a boat trip, guided hike or regulated-area visit, ask the operator what they provide and what you need to bring. Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina have specific land-access rules and require an environmental hiking guide; confirm equipment with the organiser.
For the beach, pack protection and follow local rules
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, a hat, water and a bag you can close. Add footwear suited to the access route you have chosen. The municipality publishes beach conduct guidance; check it to respect the coast, other visitors and local instructions. Do not leave litter, and do not assume every beach has bins, showers, a bar or rentals operating.
If you need a specific aid, contact the municipality or operator and check the route from the car park to the shoreline; the existence of a ramp alone may not answer your question. For regulated access, reservations or mandatory guides, carry your confirmation and follow current instructions. Do not collect shells, plants or sand; local and Park rules protect fragile places.
Choose useful kit for trails and sites
For a walk, suitable-soled shoes, water and a light layer for wind or rain are more useful than a large pack. Save the route map offline, then check difficulty, surface, elevation and Park notices. Do not rely only on mobile reception. A particular route may require different equipment or may not suit the conditions that day.
For archaeology, bring comfortable shoes and sun protection, then check tickets, hours and access on the municipal site. A torch or specialist kit is not automatically necessary; never enter closed or unauthorised areas. If combining a trail and monuments, avoid overloading the day and choose a bag you can comfortably carry for both activities.
Keep the bag light and do one final check
For villages, choose comfortable walking clothes and one layer suitable for dinner or a cooler evening. Pack chargers, identification, personal medication and a small reusable bottle. If you fly, check the airline’s rules for liquids, baggage and equipment; this guide does not set those conditions.
The day before departure, compare your bag with the itinerary: remove what you will not need, add a weather layer and leave some space. Confirm your accommodation address, parking and planned travel. If an activity has not been booked or confirmed, do not build the whole packing list around it; keep an easy alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need hiking boots for Gallura?
It depends on the routes you have chosen. Check surface, distance, elevation and the managing authority’s guidance, then bring appropriate footwear. Town visits and beach days may call for different shoes.
What should I bring if beach facilities are closed?
Bring water, sun protection, a hat, towel and what you need for the day, and take your rubbish away. Check access, parking, booking rules and environmental guidance for the specific beach.
Can I hike to Cala Coticcio alone?
A land visit requires an environmental hiking guide and compliance with Park procedures. Check the official information and book with an authorised guide before planning your equipment.
