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Packing List: What to Pack

Many new visitors wondering what to pack for Jamaica are unaware of the most critical necessities needed for their trip. There are plenty of items to keep top of mind when packing, such as bug spray (for outdoor excursions) water bottles (to stay hydrated while on adventures) and more. We’re here to help you be fully prepared yet still traveling light. Follow these tips on what to bring to Jamaica, and you’ll surely be prepared for a trip of a lifetime.

Preliminary Packing Tips on What to Bring

Travel Luggage for Jamaica

  •   A small suitcase with wheels, or better yet, a duffle bag

  •   A backpack/daypack for daily excursions

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Clothes for Jamaica

  •   Keep in mind that you will need clothes for multiple activities (indoor/outdoor)

Recommended Jamaica Packing Checklist/Guide

Common Travel Clothing

  •   Bring 2-3 pairs of pants that fit comfortably (single pair of dress slacks)

  •   Bring 2-3 pairs of shorts that also fit comfortably (women may want to additionally pack light-weight skirts/travel skirts and capri pants)

  •   Bring a single long-sleeve t-shirt

  •   Bring 3-5 short-sleeve shirts (both collared and t-shirts)

  •   Bring 1 sweatshirt or a light-weight fleece pullover (for cool nights and airplane travel) 

  •   Bring 6-8 pairs of boxer shorts or other underwear

  •   Bring 2-4 pairs of comfortable socks

  •   Bring common summer shoes such as sandals and flip flops

  •   Bring an extra pair of shoes in the event that your feet get wet

Clothing for Adventures and Beaches

  •   Bring quick dry shorts to stay comfortable in case it rains or you get wet

  •   Bring quick dry t-shirt(s) for the same reason

  •   Bring a bathing suit or surf board shorts (2-piece suits for women are acceptable)

  •   Bring a pair of closed-toed water shoes 

  •   Bring gym shoes and/or hiking boots that are easy to pack

  •   Bring a towel for the beach, river and other adventures (Carleva Bay will provide bathroom towels)

  •   A sarong is optional for women

Essential Jamaica Travel Toiletries

  •   Bring a toothbrush and toothpaste

  •   Bring travel-sized shampoo, conditioner and other hair products

  •   Bring travel-sized soap or shower gel

  •   Bring a comb or hair brush

  •   Bring bug spray (very important)

  •   Bring sunscreen (very important)

  •   Bring evaporative hand sanitizer (very important)

  •   Bring enough razors for shaving

  •   Bring necessary supplements and/or prescriptions

  •   Bring eye glasses, eye glass cases, contacts (and contact solution)

  •   Bring any necessary feminine products if you prefer to stick with your common brand

Other Things to Bring to Jamaica

  •   Bring a hat and/or sunglasses to protect from the sun

  •   Bring 1-2 plastic bags for storing wet cloths/shoes on excursions

  •   Remember…bring a water bottle (very important)

Additional Jamaica Packing Tips

Knowing what to pack for a trip to Jamaica doesn’t stop with this checklist above. There are a number of other important items to bring on your trip listed below.

Basic First Aid Kit – Items can include adhesive bandages, elastic bandages, gauze/adhesive tape, cotton swabs, antiseptic, tweezers, scissors, disposable gloves, anti-fungal/antibacterial ointments/creams, anti-itch/sting gel/cream, 1% hydrocortisone cream, sunburn treatment (i.e. – aloe gel), medication for pain/fevers/nausea/diarrhea/respiratory problems/motion sickness/allergies, thermometer, blister moleskin, hydrating eye drops and a first-aid quick reference card.

Electronics 

Cell phones in Jamaica– There are commonly large international fees associated with international cell phone usage in Jamaica. A good alternative is a calling card or social media under WiFi.   

Cameras – Taking pictures on your Jamaica vacation will help you bring home lifelong memories. Although they are a risk to get damaged on outdoor excursions, digital cameras are quite common to bring. Disposable film cameras lessen the risk.

Computers –Remember Jamaica is a third world country and Wifi service for your laptop computer are slow connections. 

Tip: If you decide to bring your own electronic devices, be sure to at least store them in a waterproof container or ziplock bag. 

Electrical outlets are the same voltage as in the United States. Remember to bring memory cards and charging devices.

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