Jamaica is an island that offers some amazing beaches and stunning sunsets, but with all of the positive aspects come some negatives. After the flights are booked and reservations have been made at your resorts it is time to go through your Jamaica packing list to get ready for an amazing vacation. The following list of what to pack for Jamaica with all the essentials that should go with you on your trip.
Jamaica Packing Essentials
Credit Cards
The easiest and safest way to pay for things during your vacation in Jamaica. Especially with the petty crime on the Island, you can always cancel a card if something happens. If you are staying in an all-inclusive hotel, your credit card may be the only thing you need to pay for everything on your trip.
Cash
Packing a little cash on you is always a smart thing to do. Most places will accept American dollars, especially in the tourist areas, but you may end up paying a little bit more. You can always get cash from an ATM while in Jamaica. Keep in mind that you do not want to walk around with a lot of cash on you at any time.
Passport
A passport is required to get into Jamaica for US citizens. Make sure yours is up to date and not expiring soon.
Medicine
As with any trip, make sure you pack medicine that works well for you when traveling. It is also wise to focus on medicine that will deal with stomach issues since the food in Jamaica can be quite spicy! Pack the medicine in your carry-on bag so you never have to worry about your luggage getting lost. Makes sure you bring your prescription drugs, but also some over-the-counter drugs so you do not have to worry about buying aspirin or ibuprofen, especially if you will have unlimited alcohol at your resort.
Jamaica Beach Packing List
Beach Bag
When it is time to hit the beach, you are going to need a cute beach bag to carry all your beach packing essentials.
Sunscreen
On every beach vacation, you are going to need plenty of sunscreens, especially for a trip to Jamaica. The sun is incredibly strong and can cause problems if you are not careful. The higher the SPF, the better while you are on the beach!
Sun Hats
To protect yourself from the sun, it is best to pack a wide-brimmed hat. This will keep the sun off of your face and neck so that you do not get sunburned and keep it out our your eyes.
Sunglasses
The sun in Jamaica can be strong, so you will want to make sure you protect your eyes. Sunglasses are a must!
Flip Flops
Flip-flops are the best footwear for the beach. You do not want to bring your expensive shoes to the beach or walk around your resort. I usually bring two pairs, a nicer pair for dining and one for everything else.
Swimsuits
You will likely be wearing a swimsuit every day of your vacation to Jamaica. Make sure you bring a few swimsuits with you for all the time at the beach and staying at the resort pool.
Clothes Packing List
Shirts
When packing for your trip to Jamaica, plan on wearing shirts for warm weather. Men can bring t-shirts, polo shirts, and button-up short sleeve shirts. For women, you can bring t-shirts, tank tops, and lightweight blouses.
Dresses
For the more formal dining options, you may want to add a few casual dresses to your packing list.
Cover-ups
Instead of changing in and out of your swimsuit, it is much easier to just throw on a cute cover-up. These are easy to pack and will save you time getting ready for dinner or drinks by the pool. You can wear them to most dining options as well.
Shorts
Jamaica is a warm climate, so shorts are essential for both men and women. Denim shorts, Khaki shorts, and even workout shorts can all be worn during the day. Just make sure they are comfortable. Breathable fabrics like linen are ideal.
Pants
For men, pack shorts or lightweight pants such as linen pants. Women can pack Capri pants, skirts, dresses, and shorts.
Shoes
The type of shoes you bring will depend on what activities you want to do while in Jamaica. You can bring water shoes, flip flops, tennis shoes, and a shoe that will fit in at classy restaurants if you plan on going to one.
Hats/Shawls
Hats and scarves are a great alternative because they will help to keep you warm while also avoiding having to wear something that might get stolen. You should bring at least 2 hats and 2 scarves per person because, during the warmer months of the year, it can get pretty hot in Jamaica! Also, make sure you have a hat or scarf with a large brim (i.e. a straw hat) so you can use it to cover your face while riding on the back of a donkey or horse.
Other Things To Consider
Camera
The great thing about smartphones today is they have such great cameras built-in. No need for much more than that to capture some snapshots of your Jamaican vacation.
GoPro Camera
The one camera we do recommend is a GoPro. That way you can take some videos of your underwater adventures or other places you do not want to take your phone.
Insect Bite Relief Cream
Jamaica is a tropical climate which means there will be bugs. No one wants to deal with pesky mosquito bites, so make sure to pack some insect bite relief cream.
Beach Towels
Resorts will provide you with beach towels, but if you will not be staying at a resort, bring a couple of towels.
Waterproof Bags
Waterproof bags are great for keeping your things safe from sand and water. You can take them with you snorkeling or scuba diving and leave the bag in the boat knowing your valuables won’t get wet. They are also perfect for bringing to the beach or the pool.
First Aid Kit
While most resorts will have a first aid kit on hand, it is always good to be prepared. A small first aid kit should include bandaids, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, and pain reliever medication.
Luggage Tags
Make sure to put your name and address on your luggage tags. That way if your luggage gets lost, it will be easier to get it back to you. Also, if it is your honeymoon you can find honeymoon-specific luggage tags.
Jamaica Packing Tips
Now as you prepare for your trip, here are some tips to make sure you bring everything you need.
- Check the weather. While Jamaica is a tropical island and is a great all year destination, there is some variation in the weather
- Check your all-inclusive resort’s dress code. Most resorts expect the guest to be very casual but they may have a more fancy restaurant or two that require you to dress up a bit more.
- Make sure you have a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. With most of your clothes being so light and since you will likely be wearing a bathing suit most of the time, you may be able to travel with only a carry-on anyway.
- Do not pack your valuables in your checked luggage. While luggage gets lost all the time, it is much easier to replace clothes than it is to replace your passport or wedding ring.
- Pack light. Not only will this make packing and unpacking easier but you will be thankful when you have to carry your bags around.
- Leave some room for shopping. Jamaica is well known for their beautiful handmade crafts. You will want to leave some room in your suitcase to bring these treasures home with you.
When it comes to what to pack for Jamaica, the most important thing is to make sure you have everything you need to have a great time! With these packing tips, you will be sure to enjoy your trip without any worries.