The Ultimate Tropical Packing Guide: What to Bring to the Caribbean

Packing for a Caribbean vacation seems simple — shorts, swimwear, done. But the seasoned traveler knows there's more to it. Here's exactly what to bring.

- **Passport** — Check expiration (must be valid for at least 6 months)

- **Travel insurance documents** — Print and digital copies

- **Flight confirmations** — Screenshots saved offline

- **Hotel reservations** — Phone numbers and addresses saved offline

- **Emergency contacts** — Local embassy and hotel numbers

- **Swimwear:** 3–4 suits (they take time to dry)

- **Lightweight shorts:** 3–4 pairs

- **T-shirts/tank tops:** 5–7

- **Lightweight long pants:** 1–2 (for evenings, nicer restaurants)

- **Long-sleeve shirt:** 1 (sun protection, mosquito defense)

- **Sarong/pashmina:** Versatile — beach cover-up, scarf, head covering for churches

- **Light sweater or jacket:** For air-conditioned restaurants and evening breezes

- **Rain jacket:** Essential June–November

- **Comfortable walking shoes:** For hikes and excursions

- **Water shoes:** Reef-safe for rocky beaches

- **Flip-flops/sandals:** Your daily footwear

- **Sunglasses:** Polarized for water glare

- **Wide-brim hat:** Sun protection

- **Reef-safe sunscreen:** SPF 50, mineral-based (chemical sunscreens damage coral)

- **After-sun lotion:** Aloe vera gel

- **Lip balm with SPF**

- **Rash guard:** For snorkeling and long water days

- **Insect repellent:** DEET 30% or picaridin

- **First-aid kit:** Bandages, antiseptic, pain reliever, antihistamine

- **Motion sickness pills:** For boat trips and tours

- **Immodium/Pepto-Bismol:** For stomach issues (new cuisine!)

- **Prescription medications:** Pack in carry-on with prescriptions

- **Waterproof phone case/pouch**

- **Portable power bank** (power outages happen)

- **Universal power adapter**

- **E-reader/books** (pool/beach reading)

- Expensive jewelry

- Designer handbags

- High heels (not practical on sand or cobblestones)

- Laptop (unplug!)

Pack a carry-on with one change of clothes, swimsuit, sunscreen, and essential toiletries. Checked bags sometimes get delayed — don't let a lost bag ruin your first day.