When traveling, you need to pack the essentials and pack light. Below is a helpful list by our friends over at Having Fun Saving for what specifically to pack for a Caribbean getaway:
Getting ready for a girls weekend to Punta Cana, and I’ve never been anywhere in the Caribbean or the Dominican Republic. In fact, most of my traveling is done in an RV so I can pack A LOT. On a weekend away at a resort, that just isn’t possible. I’m actually hoping to bring just a carry-on size suitcase and be done! But then, there’s the issue of how many shoes I pack…
As my friend and I were making our packing list and checking it twice, we thought we’d share what to pack for a Caribbean getaway.
Travel Documents
License and Passport. Be sure to pack these in your purse or somewhere easily accessible and NOT in luggage that you check. I will also bring my health insurance card.
Carry-On Essentials
What happens if your luggage gets lost or delayed? Carry any items that you would need within 24 hours of landing. Think prescriptions, basic toiletries, a bathing suit. Pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
Clothing
The average temperature in the Caribbean is 81˚F, so you probably don’t need many long sleeves or long pants. I’m packing two bamboo skirts, three bamboo shirts, a bamboo dress, two pairs of shorts and a sundress for an evening dinner.
I recommend bamboo because it is very lightweight, and it will actually keep you a few degrees cooler [than other fabrics]. Cariloha has a variety of casual, yet classy resort wear that is actually making packing a lot easier than I expected! And those skirts – they are REVERSIBLE! That means it’s a whole new skirt without me having to pack anything extra. I am bringing skirts because they keep me cooler than shorts and are a bit ‘dressier’. My dress can also double as a cover-up. Some restaurants have a mandatory dress code, so I’m covered no matter what. Don’t forget PJs.
Comfortable Shoes
Flip-flops will be my go-to shoes. I do plan on packing two pairs.
Bathing Suits
I definitely plan on getting some relaxing time in poolside, so a swimsuit is a must. Two is a good idea in case one isn’t dry and you want to head back to the pool. Plus, it’s nice having variety. Be sure to bring a swimsuit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. I introduced Ujena last year, and I’m bringing both of those suits with me on my trip.
Sunglasses and Hats
You have to protect your face and eyes, a wide-rimmed hat will protect your face and sunglasses will also protect your eyes.
Sunscreen
From everything I’ve read, sunscreen can be fairly costly in the Caribbean, so plan on bringing a few bottles with of SPF50 and a face stick with SPF 50. Don’t forget about your lips! Lips need sunscreen, too.
After Sun Care
I would like to think that I won’t get sunburned, but it’s bound to happen. Bring some aloe vera and shea butter to help relieve sunburn pain.
Waterproof Bags
Ziploc bags are great for keeping things dry and preventing spills on your important things and keeping sand out.
Extra Bag
It serves as a beach bag to carry during the day, and it gives you an extra bag in case you end up with more souvenirs that expected.
What other essentials would you recommend on a Caribbean getaway? Please share in the comments.