Packing For A Caribbean Vacation

So yesterday I left for a week-long trip to St. Thomas. We are super excited and cannot wait for the warm weather and ocean breezes awaiting us. You can follow me on INSTAGRAM for fun pictures and updates throughout the week.

Expect to see pictures like this.

So what’s this post about? Packing! Sometimes it’s hard to think of the things we need to take along to the Caribbean. Or, if you’re like me, you think of it and then you forget.

So what should you pack? Here are my ideas…

• Fun summer hats

Perfect for shielding your face from the sun and for bringing some spark to an outfit.

• A good book & a date book with your itinerary

Those plane rides can get boring – if you can’t fall asleep, then a good book or a magazine will be your entertainment.

• Big handbag

Most airlines are now charging for luggage but most allow one free carry-on and one free personal item (i.e. handbag). So if you’re like me, and you have quite a bit to travel with, choose your roomiest bag and use that as a personal item. I stash anything from tickets, makeup, and books to an extra change of clothes.

• Lounge wear

• Colorful belts

• Jewelry
  I hate ruining expensive jewelry and so I always pack my fun, less expensive jewelry for beach trips. Note: The saltwater does have an effect on metals – much of my jewelry has oxidized from it.

• Swimsuits & Cover-ups

Duh – right?

• Toiletries

• Fun, breezy outfit that really makes you feel like you’re at the beach

• Stripes, shorts, skirts, and dresses

Basically anything goes on a Caribbean vacation. Resorts will be a bit more dressy whereas staying at a hotel or condo will warrant more casual attire. Whatever your style is, be sure to pack with space (or lack thereof) in mind. But make sure you don’t under-pack! There is nothing worse than running out of clothes on a trip. Try to use at least one piece of clothing twice.

• Sunscreen & Snorkel masks

Learn from my many mistakes and apply sunscreen generously. Sunburnt skin is a sure-fire way to ruin a perfectly good vacation.

And who can resist some amazing snorkeling?

• Sandals
  Flats for a casual trip and heels for a resort-centered vacation

• A good water camera

Nothing beats the waters of the Caribbean, except maybe those of Tahiti. Underwater sea life abounds and a water camera is my best friend on these trips. Also great for beach shots – no worry about getting sand or water all over!

What are your favorite things to pack for a beach vacation?

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