When I was working in the office at a hotel in St. Maarten, our guests would often e-mail me pre-arrival asking what they should pack for their trip. For first time visitors to the Caribbean, it’s hard to imagine that when you’re visiting the Caribbean you really don’t need long sleeves at all, unless maybe you’re going to the movie theater then you might need a light sweater, but that’s it! So, I’ve made a list of items and clothing you should pack when traveling to the Caribbean. Depending on what your itinerary is you can modify this list as you see fit. If you are staying at a low key hotel, you probably won’t need anything fancy. Ladies-maybe bring one nice dress, guys-sports coat or nice button down shirt and slacks. Just remember to make it simple. One other suggestion that I have-Remember that you are visiting another country where people live and work. If you are going into a town don’t dress as if you are at the beach such as wearing board shorts and no shirt or a bikini with just a sarong. It’s inappropriate and disrespectful to the locals.
Women’s Packing List
• socks
• camisole/slip
• purse and bag for the beach
• belts
• scarves
• walking/tennis shoes
• walking sandals
• rubber sandals for reef walking and beach
• evening shoes
• costume jewelry and extra (preferably waterproof) watch (leave expensive jewelry at home)
• swim suit
• swim suit cover-up/pareo/sarong
• thongs/flip flop shoes
• work out clothes and jog bra
• tank tops, t-shirts
• shorts
• capri pants
• slacks
• 1 light sweater
• light rain coat (or you can go without and just run for shelter)rains is usually light and short
• blow dryer (check with your hotel, you may be able to save space in your bag)
• comb/brush
• hair gel
• shampoo
• conditioner
• shower cap
• body wash
• deodorant
• toothbrush
• toothpaste
• dental floss
• mouthwash
• tweezer
• make-up and make-up bag (you really don’t need heavy makeup)
• make-up remover
• cleanser
• moisturizer and freshener
• nail polish and remover
• nail clippers and file
• razor and shaving cream
Men’s Packing List
• underwear
• undershirts
• pajamas and robe
• exercise/walking socks
• black dress socks
• belts
• walking shoes
• walking sandals
• rubber sandals/shoes for reef walking and beach
• evening or dress shoes
• “docksider” casual shoes
• sport jacket (depending on if a restaurant you’re going to requires it)
• regular tie
• dress shirts
• swim suit
• swim suit cover-up
• work out clothes/T shirts
• shorts
• casual shirts
• slacks (casual and dress)
• light rain coat (or you can go without and just run for shelter)rains is usually light and short
• comb/brush
• shampoo and hair products
• bar soap in plastic container/body wash
• deodorant
• toothbrush
• toothpaste
• dental floss
• mouthwash
• tweezers
• nail clippers and file
• razor and shaving cream
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
With that list, who would need to go to the convenience store? Except maybe for refills. After all, it’s a “women’s list” so the list could probably go on. I prefer not to bring too much cosmetics and instead try what the locals may have. Exotic vanity, call it that way.
cribea~
i like buying make up at airports from the duty free stores. sometimes you can get a great discount. you have to be careful though because you can end up way overpaying. i also love going to french islands because the french have great products!
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