Tomorrow I leave for Jamaica. Since I’m leaving so early even the chickens think I’ve lost my mind, that means I have to prepare 100% today. The biggest question to be answered the day before departure: What to Pack?
The temperature is going to be a fantastic 87° so of course I’ll be packing for warm weather. But, exactly what should you bring to the island? I scoured the internet to find out what the experts say….and it was pretty much what you’d imagine.
- Sunblock
- Cool, lightweight clothes
- flip-flops or sandals
- batteries for your camera
- Wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, etc.
I kept reading these lists, one after the other, thinking – “Who doesn’t already know this stuff?”…Then I got to this little gem of eHow information:
Buy or borrow a generous length of mosquito netting. The netting should be large enough to form a comfortable canopy over your bed in Jamaica and will guard greatly against repeated bug biting during the night.
Wait…what? Bug net? No….let’s get something straight: Kenda doesn’t do bugs. I mean, I won’t run screaming – but I really don’t do bugs. If that means I will have to forgo leaving my balcony windows open at night, never feel the cool evening air as I sleep…etc etc etc…so be it. I think I can hide my disappointment. So we’ll just leave the bug net off the list. I did, however, find a great list for those traveling to the Caribbean for the first time on About.com
1. Make sure you have all of your travel documents in order and secure in a safe but accessible place.
I prepared my documents a few days ago. I admit this is one of my areas of paranoia no matter where my travel destination is. Also – do not bring your social security card when traveling internationally. If you have the unfortunate experience of losing or damaging your passport – you’re going to need that social security card to get a new one once you get home.
2. In your carry-on bag, pack your toiletry bag and at least one change of clothing, as well as a bathing suit.
We all know that the airline industry isn’t always the best at delivery things along with their owner. If you happen to fall victim to missing or delayed luggage you want to have at least the bare necessities with you for the first day while you wait for your bags to catch up.
3. Roll your clothes to prevent wrinkling and save space.
I remember my mother teaching me this years ago – even as a tactic when shopping. Lay your clothes out flat and folded in half – then roll them firmly and stack side by side in your suitcase. You’ll be amazed at how much room you save.
4. For Women: Some Islands have different customs and dress requirements.
Double check the guidelines for the island(s) you’ll be visiting. Some may discourage that teeny bikini you own and others may require dress casual for dining in the resort hosted restaurants.
5. Pack 4 types of shoes.
Yes, four. One pair of tennis shoes, one pair of sandals or flip flops, one pair of dress shoes and one pair of shoes you can wear in the water. Some resort activities require water shoes and you do not want to rent a pair that someone else has worn.
6. A disposable Rain Poncho
It may be vacation, but it still rains in the Caribbean. You probably won’t need to worry about a heavy downpour (for that you’ll just stay inside and enjoy the resort), but you also don’t want to get soggy if a drizzle starts while you are out enjoying the sights. A disposable, thin, clear poncho is perfect; like the ones they sell at the drug store or discount store. They are easy to roll up and tuck into a side luggage pocket or even your tour bag.
7. Make sure to leave space for souvenirs and extras.
You know you’ll be shopping – so leave room for it. You don’t want to be forced to buy an additional piece of luggage just to carry Aunt Betty’s rum punch mugs home. You can also roll up and pack an extra small size bag and take your purchases as carry-on for your return flight.
The Best Tip Ever: Always pack a little more than you think is required.Another word of wisdom from my mother: “It’s better to have more than you need than need more than you have.”
I know this doesn’t answer the important questions like “Do these shorts make my butt look big?” or ‘Should I spray tan before I go so I don’t blind everyone with my Northeast skin?” – but hopefully it’s a step in the right direction.
Great article, thank you again for wriitng.
I am a first time reader of your blog, but I am a fan. I too am traveling to Jamaica next weekend and this will be my first trip there or anywhere overseas. I too was searching all over the web to make sure I am packing all i need (that's how i found your blog…
)… Hope you had a great trip. I hope I can read your return home post, before i leave.
I came to see if you'd posted anything yet, I am still working on the outline for my big post. LOL It was so much fun to hang out with you in Jamaica!
Another great tip for travel documents: Place a copy in EACH bag. Also, make a copy of your passport, driver's license, social security card and itinerary– leave this with a responsible party back in the U.S. (I also tuck an extra copy in my bag). I also make copies of the front and back of all credit cards I'm taking and keep those in a safe place (i.e., with the same person who has your other document copies), in case your wallet is lost or stolen, you have all the card numbers and phone numbers so report their loss is a breeze.
I've traveled all over the world and your list is spot on. I would add, check with your airline for luggage restrictions too.