Does packing overwhelm you? It can be a lot—but once you are packed you can enjoy your time of relaxation!
Most vacations are 5-7 days which can mean a lot of packing. And wouldn’t you rather enjoy your time relaxing than tracking down and purchasing things you forgot? If you are a veteran packer or if this is your first vacation in a long time, I am here to help. Hopefully, it will take away any packing anxiety and give you more time to spend doing what you love.
Download my ultimate packing guide here.
Luggage
Deciding how many bags to pack is an essential part of your trip. You will also want to consider what type of suitcase to bring: duffle, rolling, hard or soft-sided. There are so many options to choose from. Use this trip as an excuse to purchase new luggage or use what you already have. Whatever bag you choose, be sure to leave some room for souvenirs to bring back home.
You will absolutely want a good carry on—this is a non-negotiable. (We will get to what to pack in this essential bag below.) Be sure to check your airline to see what weight and size limitations there are on bags. You’d hate to arrive at the airport and find you need to repack or throw away items. Also keep in mind what you pack you have to carry. Is the extra item thrown in worth the weight? Only you can decide!
Travel Documents
This may be one of the most important things to have together. Below is a list of essential travel documents to bring with you. Keep them in an easily accessible place at the airport and on the plane. It’s also a good idea to have copies in another bag or left with a trusted friend or family member back home.
- Passport
- Driver’s License
- Heath Card
- Travel Insurance
- Vaccine Card
- Travel Reservations
Flying There
If you are travelling by plane having a well-packed carry-on is essential. Here is a list of recommendations to make it more enjoyable.
- Travel documents listed above
- Cell phone and charger
- Headphones
- Gum & snacks
- Earplugs
- Sleeping mask
- Headache medicine
- Hand sanitizer/wipes
- Snacks
- Book/magazine (or Kindle if you are an avid reader)
- Bathing suit
- Emergency change of clothes (just in case your bag gets lost)
- A small amount of cash
- Camera
Beach Day
Once you have arrived at your destination, you will want to jump right into your dream vacation. Here are some tips for having the perfectly packed beach bag.
- Swimsuits: You may want several swimsuits if you are travelling to a beach environment. Think about what activities you enjoy. Do you want a certain suit for paddleboarding and a different one for lounging in the sun? You may also want several to have options while one is being cleaned and rinsed from sand and salt water.
- Cover-Up: A good coverup will be worn to the beach, dining, grabbing a drink or hanging around the volleyball court. Find one you love that is cool and not so delicate, it may rip or tear while you are gone.
- Sunscreen: Be sure to pack lots of sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Lip Balm: The sun will be shining on your lips too. Having burned, chapped or cracked lips will certainly get in the way of the perfect trip.
- Dry Bag: This bag can keep moisture off of your belongings while you spend time at the beach and during water activities. You will appreciate the dry shirt and phone at the end of the day.
- Waterproof Camera: If you love taking pictures purchasing a waterproof camera will ensure great pictures no matter what activities you do.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated at the beach is imperative and can’t be stated enough. The rule-of-thumb is one glass of water for every glass of alcohol to stay hydrated.
- Water Shoes: Depending on what excursion and activities you choose; you may want to pack some water shoes. Climbing over smooth, sharp, or slimy rocks will be much more enjoyable when your feet are covered.
- Hat: A hat will protect your face and head from harmful UV rays. While a baseball cap will protect your face, a larger sunhat will offer protection to your neck and shoulders as well.
- Sunglasses: I always recommend packing a few pairs of sunglasses just in case you lose one. Consider your activities and pack glasses accordingly.
- Sandals/Flip Flops: Pack your favorite flip flops or sandals for that walk to the beach. Get a pair that sand comes off easily and won’t get too hot when sitting in the sun.
Clothes
Lightweight clothing that can be layered is key. Use the same items to mix-and-match outfits.
- Sweatshirt/jacket for the plane.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Check the dining options on your trip. Is there a certain meal or restaurant that has a dress code? You will want to pack for that special meal.
Other Packing Recommendations
- Depending on where you are travelling, you may want to invest in an anti-theft money belt or purse. Also having a small first aid kit to carry in your bag is a great idea. That way you will have a Band-Aid or disinfectant wipe no matter where you are.
- Credit Card: Having a credit card for souvenirs, purchases and emergencies is a good idea. Be sure to let your credit card company know you will be travelling so it doesn’t get flagged as a stolen card.
- Cash: Even if you are on an all-inclusive trip, having some cash on hand is a good idea. US dollars are the most preferred currency in a majority of the Caribbean/Central American countries. Bring cash in smaller denominations for purchases and consider getting some changed at the airport into local currency for tipping.
Misc Items
- A key or combination lock. A good idea because when you need one, you need one.
- Ziplock bags. They are good for packing wet items, organizing or all kinds of other things.
I hope this helps make packing for your dream vacation a little easier. But even if you forget some things, or overpack, I will be here every step of the way to make your daydreaming travels come true.