The Caribbean Packing List I’ve Slowly Learned Not to Overcomplicate
I am not going to pretend I have achieved packing enlightenment.
I still bring something on almost every trip and come home thinking, “Why did I carry that across two countries?”
But after enough Caribbean cruises and Mexico trips, I have gotten much better at the part that matters: bringing the things that keep small problems from becoming annoying problems, and leaving behind the stuff I am clearly never going to use.
Two swimsuits minimum
A wet swimsuit takes longer to dry in a humid cabin or hotel room than you think.
Bring at least two.
Also consider:
- lightweight cover-up
- sandals
- rash guard
- water shoes if your excursions call for them
Sun protection
Bring:
- high-SPF sunscreen
- face sunscreen
- sunglasses
- hat
- SPF lip balm
- after-sun moisturizer
For reefs and protected areas, follow current local and operator rules around sunscreen.
Clothes that can repeat
You do not need a different outfit for every breakfast.
I prefer a small color palette so shirts, shorts and shoes work together.
For resorts:
- lightweight shirts
- shorts
- dinner outfits
- breathable pants if restaurants require them
- one nicer pair of shoes
For cruises, check the line's dress guidance.
One small excursion bag
A small backpack or crossbody should hold:
- water
- charger
- sunscreen
- sunglasses
- documents
- camera
- medication
- small cash
Do not bring a giant beach tote unless you enjoy carrying a giant beach tote.
Dry bag or wet bag
For snorkeling, beaches and boat days, this is cheap insurance.
A small dry bag protects electronics and documents.
A separate wet bag keeps a damp swimsuit away from the rest of your luggage.
Tech that earns its suitcase space
- portable charger
- multi-port USB charger
- waterproof phone pouch
- headphones
- downloaded entertainment
- offline copies of travel details
Cruise-line rules on power strips and extension equipment vary, so check the specific line before packing one.
Documents
Keep them boring and organized.
Bring:
- passport or required ID
- travel insurance information
- reservation confirmations
- cruise documentation
- transfer details
- emergency contact information
Do not rely on "it is somewhere in my email."
Download the important pieces.
Entry requirements can change, so verify current passport and visa rules for the exact itinerary.
Medication
Keep prescription medication with you, not in checked luggage.
A tiny personal kit can also include:
- pain reliever
- antihistamine
- bandages
- motion-sickness option
- stomach medication
Cruise-specific items
If you are cruising, add:
- luggage tags
- small embarkation bag
- swimsuit in your carry-on
- medication in your carry-on
- chargers in your carry-on
Checked cruise luggage can take time to reach the cabin.
Do not send away everything you need for the first afternoon.
Resort-specific items
For an all-inclusive:
- small pool bag
- insulated tumbler if you like one
- nicer dinner clothes
- bug repellent when appropriate
- book or Kindle
Most forgotten items can be purchased at the resort.
They can also cost approximately one mortgage payment per ounce, so packing sunscreen is still a good idea.
My rule now
Pack for three realities:
heat, water and convenience.
If something does not help with one of those, it needs to justify the suitcase space.
Founder & Lead Travel Advisor at Immortal Vacations. Meet Aidan.