Summary of Packing Tips for Your Caribbean Trip
With almost all airlines charging an extra fee for checked baggage, travelers are trying harder than ever to stuff all they will need for a trip into a single carryon bag. This is particularly challenging for trips involving bulkier items, but fortunately, Caribbean travel typically requires mostly lightweight clothing that is easy to pack.
1. Wear What You Don’t Want to Pack
The first step to packing light for a Caribbean trip is not just what goes into the bag, but what you wear on your body. Always opt to wear, rather than pack, your bulkiest items. This does not mean layering excessively, but rather, dress sensibly for your Caribbean flight using warmer clothes intended for cooler evenings on the islands. Consider donning a sweatshirt or light jacket along with casual yet neat long pants. Additionally, wear the heaviest shoes you plan to bring with you.
2. The Bag
For this guide, we will use a standard-sized rolling suitcase — an option that generally allows you to carry it on the plane. Most airlines permit one piece of luggage and a smaller bag, like a purse or computer bag, that fits under the seat. To get to your Caribbean resort promptly, it’s recommended to carry on your luggage instead of checking it. Always be mindful of the TSA regulations regarding liquids, which must be 3.4 ounces or less and packed in a clear bag for inspection.
3. Roll ‘Em!
You have likely heard that rolling clothes while packing is beneficial — it saves space and minimizes wrinkles. When packing for a Caribbean trip, start with the larger items, such as a few pairs of long khaki or black pants that are versatile enough for a casual night out or can easily complement a more formal outfit.
4. Shirts, Bathing Suits, and Sleepwear
Next, include your shirts: for a week-long trip, consider packing two dressier button-down shirts, three polo shirts, and four or five t-shirts. Women may also wish to pack a couple of dresses. Roll them for optimal packing and place them in the main compartment. For swimwear, two bathing suits will usually suffice, and it’s wise to bring a plastic bag for wet suits on the return journey. Lastly, don’t forget comfortable sleepwear such as lounge pants.
5. Socks, Belts, and Underwear
The suitcase is likely filling up, but there’s usually still room for socks and underwear, which can easily fill in gaps around larger items. A wrap, sarong, or beach coverup can also be packed in this stage. Consider bringing one or two extra pairs of undergarments, just in case. If you prefer to avoid hassles at airport security, pack your belt by wrapping it around the inner rim of your suitcase once your clothes are packed.
6. Shoes
Most luggage features a zippered compartment ideal for storing shoes. For your Caribbean trip, I usually pack one pair of sneakers and one pair of sandals or flip-flops. If hiking is on the agenda, wear your hiking boots and include dress shoes in your luggage. I’ve often managed to fit two pairs of shoes in this compartment, or one pair along with a toiletry bag.
7. Outside Pockets
Take a moment to review your bag. Is it packed to the brim, or is there still a little space left for that crucial item you might want — perhaps a curling iron or a small hair dryer? Consider leaving extra room for those inevitable souvenirs you may acquire on your trip. After finalizing your packing, close the bag while checking if the outer pockets can fit any additional items. Utilizing an outside pocket for your toiletry bag is wise as it protects your clothes from potential leaks during the flight.
8. The Other Bag, and Miscellaneous Items
Now that you have finished packing your luggage, let’s consider the secondary carryon bag. This bag needs to fit under the seat in front of you, often a handbag, computer bag, small backpack, or briefcase. I typically opt for a computer bag, but others might find a backpack more advantageous.
This secondary bag is perfect for holding essential travel documents (including your ticket, passport, and wallet), entertainment devices like iPods and headphones, sunglasses, and any additional items that didn’t fit in the suitcase, such as sunscreen. If you don’t carry a computer, this bag is excellent for toiletries and a good place for an extra pair of socks or underwear.
9. You’re Ready to Go!
You’re all packed and prepared to enjoy the beach! While reusing pants and dress shoes during your trip may be necessary, you will at least have clean underwear, socks, and shirts to wear. If you’re inclined to pack an additional bathing suit, feel free as they take up little space.
This guide reflects a male traveler’s perspective, so women may need to accommodate packing additional toiletries and cosmetics. Generally, there’s always a bit of room for one or two extra items with this packing strategy. Not having to check bags reduces the hassle significantly, and you won’t face that irritating baggage fee charged by most airlines.
As a final note, if you have any spare room, consider bringing along an empty bag, ideally a backpack. It’s incredibly useful for carrying essentials on day trips or excursions, and you can also use it for carrying home gifts, beverages, or souvenirs collected throughout your stay. This way, you can return home with three bags while still avoiding excess baggage fees.
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