What to Pack for a Tropical Vacation
Whether you are preparing for your first trip to the Caribbean or consider yourself a seasoned veteran, packing for vacation can feel like a daunting task. We believe every day leading up to your vacation should bring growing excitement, not stress!
To ease your packing woes, we have constructed the ultimate packing list for Caribbean vacations! Including everything from appropriate dinner attire to lip balm with SPF, this list of things to bring will ensure a relaxing vacation.
1. Essentials for the Airport
Travel Documents
These are the absolute most important things you need to get to the Caribbean. Your passport and plane ticket should be tucked in a secure and easily accessible area such as carry-on or purse packets. Keep in mind that passports are absolutely required for Caribbean travel, and you will be denied flight service without one.
Well-Packed Carry On
Pack your carry on with any items that would be essential within 24 hours of travel. This includes prescriptions, toiletries, a change of clothing and shoes, and definitely a bathing suit! With international travel, luggage can be delayed for up to a day. A well-equipped carry on will leave you lounging poolside, and stress free, while waiting for your suitcase.
TSA-Approved Locks
The only thing more upsetting than lost luggage is a suitcase that has been ransacked. Equip your belongings with TSA approved locks to prevent any property loss. We recommend combination locks to eliminate that devastating epiphany of “I forgot the keys at home.”
2. Dressing for the Caribbean
Lightweight Clothing
The average temperature in the Caribbean is 82˚F, so account for the heat and humidity while packing. For day-to-day activities, pack a variety of shorts and polos for men, and dresses, skirts, and loose tops for women. Avoid very revealing clothing. For dinner, men should bring at least one pair of long pants and a sundress or long skirt for women. Some restaurants will have a mandatory dress code; so a few conservative pieces won’t hurt. Note: Their is no dress code at Bluefields Bay Villas (which is one of the things our visitors love about staying here. Leave the suit and tie at home and relax!)
Comfortable Shoes
You will need a pair of sneakers, sandals, water shoes and dress shoes to equip you for vacation. Flip flops will accommodate you for the majority of your vacation, and the remaining will keep you protected and properly dressed for other activities.
Bathing Suits
Multiple bathing suits, got that? They take longer to dry in Jamaican humidity, and there’s nothing worse than pulling on a damp suit. Swimwear doesn’t take up much room in your suitcase, so just pack them in! Did we say multiple?
Light Jacket & Umbrella: In some areas of the Caribbean, you’ll get a little rain almost every day. Pack a lightweight umbrella to keep yourself comfortable. If you’re traveling in the winter months, you may find a light jacket comforting as temperatures take a slight dip in the evening.
Clothing NOT to Pack
We mentioned previously that revealing and skimpy clothing is not ideal for your Caribbean getaway. Take note that camouflage clothing is strictly prohibited, and even illegal in some Caribbean areas, so just leave all these at home.
3. There Will be Sun!
Sunblock
Bring as much sunblock as you can, and bring more than you think you will use. Choose waterproof sunblock from varying levels of SPF, and encourage everyone in your travel group to pack in excess too. You will undoubtedly be enjoying the sun, and running out will cost you a pretty penny to stock up. Just do it, your skin will thank you!
Aloe Vera
Whether you planned on it or not, there will inevitably be some sunburn on the horizon. Packing a bottle of aloe will help relieve the pain without the additional wallet pain of buying a bottle in Jamaica. Don’t get mistaken for the lobster you’ll be enjoying for dinner!
Lip balm with SPF
Burnt lips? Ouch! Bring along a moisturizing lip balm that has SPF. It will help protect you from the sun, and also relieve lips in the chance they do become sun burnt.
Bug Spray
Some of us are just more prone to itchy, scratchy bug bites than others are. Pack a bottle or two along to keep you from smacking away the insects. And I’m sure some unlucky soul will thank you for thinking of it when they forget themselves.
Sunglasses & Hats: We clearly think you should pack as much sun protection as possible. A wide rimmed hat will keep the sun from burning your face. Sunglasses, with SPF protection, will also protect your eyes from the fun you’re going to have in the sun.
4. All the Extras
Waterproof Cases & Bags
Ziploc bags are perfect for keeping things dry and preventing bottle spills in your beach bag, and trash bags are great for keeping everything in your bag protected from water activities. For cameras and electronics that can’t risk any contact with water, purchase a waterproof case that is airtight.
Snorkel Gear: If you plan on snorkeling or find yourself even mildly drawn to the idea of it, bring your own snorkel gear. It will definitely be much cheaper, and in some cases more sanitary, than renting from your resort or buying them in Jamaica. Note: We provide snorkel gear to all of our visitors.
Extra Duffel Bag
Bringing an extra bag along is great for a couple reasons: it gives you a beach bag to carry along during the day, and you now have room to bring home souvenirs instead of cramming them in your carry-on.
Thinking about a tropical vacation? We can help! You can reach us at 402-281-3022.
Whether you plan to explore the royal history in England, the romance of sites like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the exquisite Spanish art, or the architecture in Rome, this list of 7 things to pack for a European vacation can help you with the basics.
1. Walking Shoes
The best way to explore a new city on your European vacation is by foot. One thing that can really put a damper on your exploration is an uncomfortable pair of shoes. This list of of the best travel-friendly shoes for walking from Travel + Leisure can help you pick out the best pair for where you’re headed.
2. EuropeanPower Adapter
If you plan to do such basic things as charge your phone or blowdry your hair during your European vacation, you are going to need a European power adapter. This handy little gadget will allow your US appliances to fit into sockets across Europe. It is important to note that in order to prevent damage, you will need to invest in devices with dual voltage capacity or purchase a voltage converter as well.
3. Rain Jacket
It’s important to prepare for everything when packing your suitcase for a European vacation. Umbrellas and rain boots may take up too much room, but you should always make space in your suitcase for a lightweight rain jacket. Keep in mind that a rain jacket will protect you from more than just a downpour; it can also shield you from the wind and too much sun. This list from Travel + Leisure shows you the best rain jackets to pack.
4. Portable Charger
There are few things worse than running out of phone battery at an airport or while you’re out seeing the sites and wanting to take photos. Prepare yourself for this tragedy by reading this article from Travel + Leisure, which lays out the best portable battery packs for getaways.
5. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
According to this article from Solo Traveler, it is very important to have a VPN for travel, especially if you plan to work while traveling. A VPN will protect you from online identity theft, allows you to safely use a credit card on public Wifi networks, delivers websites in English no matter what country you’re in, gives you access to sites like Netflix which are blocked in certain countries, and finally, it protects your online activities from being sold by an ISP provider.
6. Water bottle with built-in filter
Water bottles that come with built-in filters will give you peace of mind that the water you are consuming is as clean as the filtered water you drink at home. In addition, investing in one of these water bottles will help you to avoid creating harmful waste with an excessive amount of plastic water bottles.
7. Activated charcoal
According to travel blogger Ordinary Traveler, activated charcoal tablets work wonders for traveler’s diarrhea. Imodium works in a pinch to keep you from pooping, but charcoal actually absorbs the bacteria in your body so you can get rid of it when it passes out of your body. This can also help you with certain allergic reactions. Ask your doctor for more information.
Call us today at 402-281-3022 to plan your next European vacation.
Don’t be afraid to embrace the chill! Whether you are headed to Alaska in January or London in November, this helpful list of packing tips for a cold weather vacation is where you should start.
Tip #1: Save space
One of the hardest things about packing for a destination with low temps is fitting all that cold-weather clothing in your suitcase. The things that will likely take up the most space in your bag include shoes, coats, and pants. That means each of these items must be as versatile as possible. The goal here should be to bring 1 (or 2 at the most) of each of these: shoes, coats, pants. Choose a pair of shorter boots that you can wear socks with, but that would also be wearable to a nice restaurant. Also make sure these are comfortable! As for a coat, you may consider bringing this on the plane with you to save as much space as possible. For pants, you can’t go wrong with a pair of jeans and/or a pair of black pants.
Tip #2: Plan ahead
When you’re packing for a beach vacation, things are a little more relaxed. Throw a couple swimsuits in your bag along with some flip-flops and casual attire, plus something more fancy, and you can figure it out when you get there! At least, that’s what I always say and it usually works out pretty well. However, for a cold-weather vacation, this won’t be so easy. The best way to prepare is to plan your outfits ahead of time. If you’re going to be gone for 7 days, figure out what you will be doing each of those days and pack things that can be worn multiple times and for multiple activities or occasions.
Tip #3: Don’t forget cold-weather necessities
Of course you will want to pack your gloves and scarves, but you also don’t want to forget other cold-weather necessities like hand lotion, chapstick, and kleenexes. You can always get these in-destination, but depending on where you are going it is usually best to bring your own. This is an especially good reminder for those of you packing for a cold-weather destination when your hometown weather is still warm. I always forget how pertinent my anti-static spray is when it’s all packed up during summer months!
Tip #4: Don’t add in sweaters
Instead, replace other tops with them. Sweaters are a necessity in cold climates, but they can add a lot of bulk to your suitcase. Rather than bringing several long-sleeve tops that will also need a jacket over them, replace a few of these tops with 1-2 sweaters that go with everything. You’ll thank us later!
Tip #5: Don’t forget a good travel bag
In my opinion, the best way to be prepared on a trip is to have the right bag to carry all of your necessities. I have been on a few trips where I forget to pack a good bag for day time that will fit my chapstick, extra layers, etc. I would choose one that is large enough for an umbrella or rain jacket, a lightweight layer to add under a coat, and all of your toiletries and basic things like wallet and ID.
Call us today at 402-281-3022 to book your own cold-weather getaway!
This packing guide is all you need to prepare for a stay at an all-inclusive resort. An all-inclusive resort fee almost always includes all food, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, your hotel room, resort fees, etc. Many all-inclusive resorts also offer fun activities at an extra cost such as watersports, beach access, and more. Packing for an all-inclusive vacation most often means you are headed for a sunny beach destination. This all-inclusive packing list will work whether you are going to Hawaii, Mexico, Jamaica – anywhere warm and tropical!
Packing Guide: All-Inclusive Resort Vacation
Read on for a Full Packing Guide for Your All-Inclusive Vacation
Carry-On Essentials
In addition to your passport and plane ticket (whether that’s on your phone or you print it at the airport), you’ll want to have a few extra things handy in your carry-on bag.
Resort Booking Information
It is helpful to print or take a screenshot of your resort booking information to have on hand when you need it for customs & immigration forms. This also comes in handy when you land at the airport and need to find your transfers or transportation to your resort.
Credit Card
Always bring at least one credit card for emergencies.
Insurance Information
You’ll need this for emergencies as well as if you are renting a car.
Cash for Tipping
Most all-inclusive resorts will state that gratuities are included. However, many people still wish to tip for excellent service. Taking a couple of hundred dollars in cash is a great idea if you are one for tipping. American dollars are fine in most popular all-inclusive resort destinations.
These are the most noteworthy items to have on hand in your carry-on for an all-inclusive vacation. Of course, you’ll also need things like a reusable water bottle, chargers for your electronics and phone, headphones if you wish, etc. Don’t forget to always bring your valuables with you – never pack those in your checked luggage.
You may also want to bring a bathing suit/swimsuit and a few easily packable clothing items in a beach bag if you are checking the bulk of your belongings. That way, if anything happens to your checked baggage, you still have something to wear when you arrive at your destination.
Toiletries to Pack for an All-Inclusive Stay
Don’t make the mistake of buying anything at the airport or gift shop. Although things like Band-Aids and aloe vera will be available to you, they will most likely be much more expensive than what you can grab from home. Here’s a rough guide I like to use when packing toiletries for an all-inclusive vacation:
- Band-aids
- Hair ties/clips
- Bug spray
- Aloe vera
- Tampons
- Razors and shaving cream
- Makeup and makeup remover wipes
- Facewash and skincare products
- Tide stick
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
- Tylenol, Benadryl, Tums, and any other medications
Most all-inclusive resorts will have complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. They should also have a blow dryer and in some cases, a hair straightener. You can check all of this with your Enchanted Travel advisor beforehand.
Things You’ll Need on the Beach at an All-Inclusive Resort
Of course, there are obvious items such as swimsuits, coverups, flip-flops, etc. Here are a few other items to consider bringing to the beach at an all-inclusive resort:
Reef-safe Sunscreen
If you plan to swim in the ocean or go on any water excursions, you’ll need reef-safe sunscreen. Tour operators will require this type of sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystems.
Lip Sunscreen
I am constantly forgetting this, so I wanted to include it in this list!
Kindle
Of course, you can bring a paperback, however, a Kindle is 10 times easier to read in the sun. Even under shade by the pool, I find it annoying to read from a book or my phone at the pool or beach. A Kindle is a great investment if you travel often.
Tumbler
Some people prefer to drink out of their own reusable tumbler. Remembering a tumbler is especially important if you are a beach person because your tumbler will keep sand out of your cup unlike a standard open-mouth cup from the resort. As an added bonus, your drinks will stay colder longer!
Types of Clothing You Will Need for an All-Inclusive Resort
Evening Attire
Of course, you’ll need swimsuits, coverups, shorts, tank tops and t-shirts, dresses, etc. However, don’t forget to pack something a little more dressy for the evening for some of the nicer restaurants on the property. Most of the nicer restaurants will not allow flip-flops in the evening. Be sure to read the dress code on your resort’s website. For men, rules are generally more strict. For example, usually, no open-toed shoes are allowed and men must wear long pants and sometimes, collared shirts.
Sweater or Jacket
Don’t forget to pack a sweater or jacket for evenings or chilly mornings as well as for the plane.
Bring Extra Undergarments
We all know the joke that people pack 20 pairs of underwear for a three-night stay. While that is a little overboard, you really will want at least two pairs of underwear for each day you are staying. You will be getting a lot more sweaty, taking more showers, and doing more activities than in your daily life. Trust us on this one! Also on the subject of undergarments, don’t forget socks for the airplane.
A Mini-Steamer
While a mini-steamer comes in handy, a steamy shower will do the trick for most fabrics as well.
Things You Do Not Need to Pack for an All-Inclusive Vacation
- Towels
- Pillows
- Blow dryer
- Beach gear – chairs or umbrellas, snacks, and/or alcoholic beverages
Don’t bring any of these things! They are all provided.
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