50 Essentials for your Caribbean Vacation Packing List

Are you stressing over creating a Caribbean vacation packing list? 

There are many things to consider when planning a trip to the Caribbean. Is the weather always warm? Will there be rain? Are there any bugs? Should I pack anything specific for the Caribbean?

You've come to the right place!

I've been to the Caribbean multiple times- from resort stays to cruises- and I can tell you what your checklist should include and what you don't need to worry about bringing.

From the perfect beach day to exploring islands and resorts to cruises, this ultimate Caribbean vacation packing list will help you get organized. You'll need the proper clothes for the Caribbean weather. I also like to pack accessories to assist with your adventures, like hiking boots or snorkeling gear. Typical travel essentials like bug spray and sunscreen are a must.

Packing for your vacation should be the least of your worries. Instead, focus on where you want to stay or what activities you want to do. 

Use this packing list to help when planning your trip, and take note of everything you might want to bring.

The Suitcases

1. Suitcase With Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are lifesavers!

You need to travel with a packing cube to organize your suitcase. These cubes are helpful for separating the clothes for your family in a shared suitcase or keeping your clothing organized.

In addition to organizing your outfits, packing cubes save a lot of space in your suitcase.

2. Carry-on

Bring a carry-on for your flight to the Caribbean, especially if you're going on a cruise. Many cruise lines will not let you into your stateroom until a few hours after boarding the ship.

Instead of lugging your whole suitcase around with you, pack essentials and a bathing suit in your carry-on so you can start exploring and enjoying the ship's amenities right away.

Many flights allow you to have a personal item and a carry-on bag. Pack things you'll need on your flight in a purse, like snacks, electronics, or a book. 

A large purse lets you stow your extra bag in the overhead bin and only worry about it once you land.

The Essentials

3. Passport

Do. Not. Forget. Your. Passport.

Seriously, it's a hassle to board flights and cruise ships without your passport.

Some islands in the Caribbean don't require a US passport, but for the most part, you will need one.

Luckily, I've always remembered my passport for a cruise or trip to another country, but I've heard of people who have, and it's always a huge issue to get it figured out.

Always double-check your passport is in your bag before you leave the house.

4. Drivers License/Photo ID

It seems simple, but it's essential to pack and remember your ID.

You need your ID for airport security and your license for car rentals. It's also a secondary form of identification with your passport. 

If you're changing to a travel bag, double-check that your license is in it.

5. Cash and Credit Card

Bring US Dollars (USD) with you when you travel to the Caribbean, but only use USD if you have to. The exchange rate is usually not in your favor if you pay in USD instead of the local currency.

Consider how much you will want to pay in tips, taxis, and possible cash-only places for food and shopping. Exchange that amount into the local currency, have some USD as backup, and bring your credit card.

Remember to call your credit card company or bank to let them know you'll travel outside the country. You don't want to worry about your card declining while on an island vacation.

6. Tickets & Reservation Confirmations

I know everything is on your phone now, but what happens if your phone runs out of battery or you don't have a signal?

I like to print a hard copy of the essential reservations and tickets. At the very least, take a screenshot of the tickets and confirmation numbers. 

That way, you have the info on your phone and don't have to rely on a good network connection to log onto an account or load your e-mail for a copy.

7. Global Entry Card

Global Entry is fantastic! I traveled with friends to Canada once. They had Global Entry, and I didn't. 

My friends spent 5 minutes walking through customs, and I was stuck in line for an hour.

I got Global Entry before our next international trip.

Many Caribbean cruises leave from a city in the US, like Ft Lauderdale, Florida, but some leave out of another country.

If you like to travel, Global Entry is a good thing to add to your list for your next trip. Make your appointment beforehand; booking can take a while, and then you can get your card.

Gadgets

8. Phone

Don't laugh, but when I was catching a ride to the airport for my 7-day Eastern Caribbean Cruise, we got halfway to the airport when I realized I had left my phone at home.

You need to add a phone to your Caribbean checklist. Use it as a camera, a way to communicate with others on your trip, and to call home. 

Friendly tip: upload photos and videos to a computer or external hard drive before your Caribbean vacation. Otherwise, your phone could run out of memory space.

9. Headphones

Sometimes, the airline offers headphones, but it's good to bring your own just in case. 

Invest in a headphone adaptor for planes that have movies to watch- the plug is only sometimes a match for the typical headphone connector, and Bluetooth may not work.

Download movies, music, or shows on your phone before your island vacation. You will only sometimes have Wi-Fi on the plane or at your Caribbean destination.

10. Tablet

We go on vacation to disconnect, but sometimes we need access to some work or use a tablet for movie downloads or games.

Try to keep electronics to a minimum, but a tablet can be a compact way to have a computer with you. 

I like to bring my tablet so I can keep writing in Google Docs offline, but that's a writer's life.

11. Portable Charger and Adapter

A portable charger has become mandatory whenever anyone leaves their house. We live off chargeable electronics like phones, Bluetooth headsets, and smartwatches.

Get a solar-powered charger to ensure you never run out of battery and have a secondary way to re-power your portable charger.

Some islands have different outlet types, so pack a universal adapter. Just remember the charging cord!

12. Waterproof Watch

I like leaving my smartwatch at home as a travel safety precaution, but I recommend you bring a waterproof watch. 

You will want to spend time in the water, and it's easy to lose track of time when on vacation. I've had friends almost miss dinner reservations because they didn't have their phones on them and had no watch. 

Missing a tour departure or running late to return to the cruise ship are other time-sensitive things that would ruin your vacation. 

A basic waterproof watch will help you stay on schedule!

13. Book/Kindle 

Books are a must if you like to relax by reading. 

I like reading on a plane, in a resort's lounge, and sunbathing on a tropical beach.

Kindles or electronic books are a great way to save space and reduce luggage weight, but if you prefer a physical book, don't hesitate to pack one or two.

14. Waterproof Speaker (download playlist)

The perfect Caribbean vacation includes epic beach days. Listening to music adds to the excitement of your vacation.

You don't want your phone getting wet or losing battery, so bring a waterproof speaker.

Download your favorite playlists beforehand, so you're all set for music without needing Wi-Fi. 

15. Waterproof Camera with Extra Memory Cards

You are going to crystal clear ocean water. Bring a waterproof camera.

You don't have to worry about your camera getting splashed when you take pictures or videos of your vacation memories. It's so fun taking pictures of underwater flips and silly faces. 

Remember, extra memory cards so you don't run out of space.

16. GPS

GPS is on the list for a Caribbean vacation if you want to go hiking or exploring. 

Only some spots on Caribbean islands have good internet or network connections, so you'll want to use a more reliable method to navigate.

Shoes

17. Sandals

Pack pool sandals in the same bag as your bathing suit. If you can't get into your luggage on a cruise ship yet but want to enjoy the pool, you don't like to do so in your travel tennis shoes.

It would help if you had sandals for the perfect Caribbean vacation. There are pools at resorts and on cruise ships, cenotes to dive into, and beaches to lounge on. 

Don't pack new sandals that might give you blisters, but don't pack sandals that are so old the strap will break easily.

I hobbled around Chichen Itza in Cancun in sandals with a broken strap. It wasn't easy.

18. Walking Shoes

Caribbean islands tend to be warm, but I don't recommend walking everywhere in sandals, especially if you are going on any walking tours.

Give your feet the proper arch support and comfort during your time in the Caribbean. There will be plenty of time for poolside or beach sandals and fancier night-out shoes.

19. Dress Shoes

You want to pack dress shoes for your vacation in the Caribbean for multiple reasons.

Cruise ships have formal nights, and the Caribbean has plenty of nightlife. Some restaurants have dress codes and won't let you in if you're too casual.

Pack flats instead of heels if you will be walking around cobblestone streets.

20. Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes are not necessary if you're packing light, but they are essential if you want to hike on your Caribbean Trip. 

There are so many beautiful places to explore. 

Many trails are easy to access and don't require extra hiking footwear, but if you're planning on hiking moderate trails with amazing views, your feet will thank you.

Clothes

21. Swimsuits (2-3)

When you visit the Caribbean, you are likely to swim or lounge in a pool or the ocean. 

If you've ever had to wear a wet bathing suit, you know why I say bring at least two. The main idea is to wear one bathing suit one day, then let it dry while you wear the other the next day. 

I like to have one pool bathing suit and one ocean bathing suit since salt water can be harsh on the fabric over time.

22. Swimsuit Cover-up (1)

Your ultimate packing list needs to include a swimsuit cover-up. Wear a quick-dry dress, a T-shirt and shorts, or a sarong to get to the beach or pool from your room in appropriate attire.

Some restaurants require clothing over your swimsuit for you to eat there.

The poolside bar and grill would only allow us in with proper clothes at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun. 

The rule was silly since it was outdoor dining right by the pool. Why not let people eat in their bathing suits? But it was a fancier venue with dress codes.

23. Sundresses (2-3)

A maxi dress or sundress is the perfect cute and casual outfit for a tropical vacation in the Caribbean.

Plus, you can dress it up with some lovely jewelry and wear it out for the evening.

Sundresses are light and only take up a little space in your suitcase.

24. Shorts (2-3)

Pack a few pairs of shorts that you can mix and match with different tops to help prevent overpacking. You don't need different shorts for every day.

Having dresses to swap outfit styles can also stretch how long your clothes last before needing a wash.

The shorts style is entirely up to you, but there are many things to do in the Caribbean where a dress or skirt may need to be more practical, like kayaking, hiking, or walking around on a windy day.

25. Tank Tops or t-Shirts (3-5)

Shirts and tank tops are a staple for any essential Caribbean packing list.

Quick, dry, breathable material is best for comfort in the Caribbean heat, humidity, and rain.

Packing a few options lets you mix and match to make different outfits. Again, a mix of casual and nice tops is a good idea.

26. Hiking Pants (1)

Wear lightweight hiking pants if you're exploring alone or on a tour. These will help protect you from the sun and any brush on your hike.

They are also the more practical wardrobe option for ziplining or horseback riding. 

Ziplining through the rainforest near Cancun was one of my most exciting experiences. It's nerve-wracking but worth it!

Jeans don't dry quickly if you get caught in the tropical rain.

27. Socks & Underwear (9-10)

When you pack clothes for the Caribbean, don't be stingy with the undergarments. It's good to stay fresh throughout the trip.

Pack light on the outerwear like shirts and shorts instead of skimping on the clothing essentials. They only take up a little room and help keep you dry, clean, and comfortable.

Remember the proper undergarments for your dress clothes!

28. Pajamas (1-2)

You can wear pajamas for at least a few nights in a row. If you like fresh pj's at night, I recommend packing two sets.

The Caribbean weather is usually warm year-round, but the air conditioning in a hotel room or cruise stateroom might be chilly. 

I'm not saying to pack winter pajamas, but if you get cold quickly like me, wear pants and a short-sleeved pajama shirt.

29. Lightweight Sweater & Shawl

Nights can cool down a little. My friend doesn't get cold quickly and never needed a sweater on our 10-day Caribbean trip, but I needed a lightweight sweater.

Outside was fine, but I needed that extra layer inside the resort or the cruise ship.

Pack a shawl or dressier sweater for those formal nights and higher-end restaurants.

30. Rain Jacket 

It rains all the time in the Caribbean. Even if you're not traveling during hurricane season, expect a couple of showers during your trip. 

When I visited the Caribbean in April, it rained only once. When I traveled to the Bahamas in June, it rained multiple times.

A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket may not seem necessary, but it keeps you dry and comfortable. 

Have you ever been drenched in a sudden downpour? 

Then, you had to walk around for hours before changing into dry clothes? Not very fun. Pack the rain jacket, just in case.

31. Sun Hat & Sunglasses

A hat can help keep rain out of your face and protect you from the sun.

Vacationing in the Caribbean is the perfect opportunity to bring a cute, wide-brimmed sun hat. 

Add some UV protection sunglasses, and you're good to go!

Accessories

32. Beach Tote 

Every time I go to the beach, I bring a beach tote. That way, I can double-check that I have everything needed for a proper beach day packed in a bag that won't get ruined in the sand.

When packing, I add my swimsuit and beach sandals to my beach bag so I don't forget them on the trip. Other items to stash in your beach tote are a water bottle, snack, quick-dry towel, and sunscreen.

Pack your reading book or snorkeling gear and enjoy relaxation or fun in the sun!

If you'll be on a boat or SCUBA diving in the Caribbean, a dry bag is the best option so nothing gets soaked.

33. Day Use Purse/Night Out Clutch

If you're like me, you travel with a large enough purse to avoid paying for an extra suitcase or overstuffing your carry-on. But that large purse only works well when you're trying to relax on vacation.

You can pack light on tours or when wandering around a resort. When you pack for the Caribbean, bring a small crossover bag or belt bag during the day.

There is a lot of nightlife in the Caribbean, especially in cities like San Juan. Cruise ships have formal nights where a small clutch is better than a day bag.

Health and Beauty

34. Sunscreen & Chapstick

No packing list for a Caribbean vacation is complete without sunscreen and SPF chapstick.

Stay on top of your skincare and get a higher SPF, water-resistant sunscreen. Remember the sunscreen chapstick.

I've had sunburned lips before from not wearing SPF chapstick- it hurts!

35. Aloe & Lotion

Even if you reapply your sunscreen, there is still a high chance of getting sunburned. 

Pack aloe or after-sun lotion to hydrate, protect, and soothe your skin.

Get in the habit of applying after-sun lotion to your face and shoulders after each day in the sun. Aloe lotion will help your skin overnight and prepare for the next dose of sunscreen and sunshine the next day.

36. Bug Spray

Every Caribbean island can have mosquitoes year-round. The weather is warm and humid, perfect for these insects.

Pack a good bug spray to use in the evening. Wearing long sleeves and pants also protects you from mosquitoes when exploring areas with lots of plants and water.

Planning to spend your evenings indoors on a cruise ship or at a resort helps minimize the chances of mosquito bites.

37. OTC Medications 

You should bring a mini-pharmacy when vacationing in the Caribbean.

Motion sickness medication can help with any drives to beautiful forests and waterfalls or prevent seasickness on boat rides.

If you have allergies, pack your antihistamines.

Ibuprofen and Pepto Bismol are essential to have on hand in case you need pain relief or your stomach gets upset.

My friend broke her foot on the uneven cobblestone streets when we were in Sint Maarten. The cruise ship had a medical station and gave her a wheelchair, but having her own Tylenol for when they were closed was good.

38. Travel Size Toiletries

Packing travel-size toiletries helps save space in your luggage.

Take the essentials, such as shampoo and conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, and deodorant. I've forgotten a hairbrush before; it wasn't fun.

Other extras are feminine products, dental floss, lotion, face wash, makeup, and anything else you need to stay clean and fresh.

39. Travel First Aid Kit

A compact first aid kit is important to bring anywhere. With it, you can easily handle small cuts, scrapes, or blisters if you're not near a medical station. 

Stock your kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and some bandages. 

40. Travel Snacks

Even if you don't want to eat snacks, you should still bring some.

Many restaurants and cruise ship food places close at certain times. You don't want to be stuck without food.

Snacks also help during travel time or for longer excursions that don't provide food.

41. Electrolyte Mix

The heat and the sun can dehydrate you even if you're not hiking. 

Electrolytes are a great addition to your water to help keep you hydrated.

Ultima is a great brand with many flavor options and 0 sugar, 0 calories, and 0 carbs. Liquid IV is also a popular option but has a higher sugar count.

Miscellaneous

42. Water Bottle

We always bring a reusable water bottle when we travel, and traveling to the Caribbean is no exception.

You can bring an empty water bottle through airport security and refill it for your flight. 

On cruise ships, the dining halls aren't always open, so it's convenient to refill your water bottle during the day and have it in the evenings.

Bringing an insulated water bottle keeps your water cold and refreshing while you relax on Caribbean beaches or lounge poolside at the resort.

43. Reusable Straw

Paper straws or no straws at all are becoming increasingly popular eco-friendly options for restaurants. If you like using a straw, bring your own.

There are lightweight, collapsible travel straws perfect for traveling. You can get some with fun colors or patterns and a carrying case.

44. Pen & Notebook

A pen and notebook are essential for your Caribbean packing list, but it's something often overlooked. 

Phones sometimes work better to write directions or local recommendations.

Drawing or writing is a great way to pass the time while waiting for a tour or plane. If you have kids, it's the perfect portable entertainment package. They can play classic games like tic-tac-toe or have fun coloring on the page.

45. Deck of Cards

I take a deck of cards with me on every trip. Like pen and paper, it's a great way to pass the time or have fun playing a game while on vacation.

If you're traveling solo, there are many solitaire games. When traveling with a group, you can relax in resort common areas while enjoying snacks and beverages.

46. Travel Sewing Kit

A travel sewing kit is easy to pack and can help if your clothing snags on something and tears. 

Many people overlook this when traveling, but I've had to use my sewing kit multiple times on the go.

I had a pair of ripped pants that I could stitch up and keep using on my trip.

You might think you'll buy a new clothing item, but it may not be available now. A quick patch with a needle and thread can tide you over until you get to a store or home.

47. Travel Laundry Detergent 

Travel laundry detergent is great for long vacations where you don't want to spend extra money on laundry services.

By washing some clothes in the bathroom sink and hanging them to dry in the shower, I packed fewer clothes for my 10-day Eastern Caribbean cruise.

48. Snorkeling Gear 

Instead of renting gear for snorkeling in the Caribbean, bring your snorkel and mask. 

If you have room in your luggage, snorkeling fins are also helpful but optional for casual swimming with a mask through the clear waters of the Caribbean Ocean.

Bringing your snorkel and mask lets you explore the Caribbean's underwater world without spending more money on a snorkeling tour or shore excursion.

49. Hiking Poles

Hiking poles seem like an extra item, but they are helpful for moderate and challenging trails. 

My friend has foot injuries from soccer that never healed right, so he also uses the hiking poles on some easy hikes. 

The pokes add extra stability and support on uneven terrain.

50. Quick Dry Towel

If you're staying in a resort, they will have towels for you to use at the pool and on the beach, but I recommend having a quick dry towel. 

Something like a Sand Cloud towel that doesn't let the sand stick to it is perfect and multifunctional. You can lay the towel out to sit on or use it as a cute cover-up. 

I like to use mine as a blanket on the plane and as a beach towel instead of the one provided by the hotel.

Summary of Caribbean Vacation Packing List

Are you ready for your Caribbean vacation? Start packing and have a fantastic time!

Use this as your ultimate guide to creating a Caribbean vacation packing list. Whether you are going to San Juan or St. Lucia, make a note of everything you will need based on the activities and length of time of your trip.

Some unique items to pack that depend on what you'll be doing include snorkeling gear, hiking boots, and a waterproof speaker.

Essentials on your ultimate Caribbean packing list include casual and formal mix-and-match clothing for warm weather. Proper toiletries, sandals, and sunscreen are a must!

The most important things to remember are passports, identification cards, credit cards, and cash. Pack your phone and a portable charger, but download copies of anything you might need if you don't have Wi-Fi.

Are you ready for your Caribbean vacation? Start packing and have a fantastic time!