Get ready for a relaxing vacation with this convenient packing guide.
Nothing ruins a tropical vacation faster than forgotten flip-flops or a swarm of mosquitoes that cannot be held at bay. However, carefully planning your trip can help prevent travel's most frustrating moments.
Preparation
The US Passport application process can take up to six weeks.
Before you embark on a tropical vacation, make sure that you do research about the country you plan to visit. Check to see if you will need to apply for a passport, acquire a visa, or purchase a foreign language phrasebook. It is also a good idea to apply for travel insurance, look up the number of the local embassy, and get any vaccinations pertinent to the country you wish to visit. Furthermore, many countries use a different power supply as well as different plugs than those of the U.S. It is important to know whether your destination falls into this category, as a high voltage country's electricity will ruin American electronics.
Clothing Items
Beach-worthy footwear
Packing the right clothing for a tropical vacation can be difficult. Though you may worry about not packing enough, many people find themselves buying clothing at their destination, making them wish that they had more room in their suitcases. However, it is best to at least bring along the basics. Bathing suits and flip-flops are a must, along with cover-ups for post-swimming walks. A protective wide-brimmed hat is also recommended, especially if your skin often needs a break from the sun for a day. Casual dresses and light trousers are easy and chic for romantic dinners, though there are nights--particularly on cruises--when formal dress is preferred. For daytime outings, remember comfortable shoes and breathable walking clothes--and perhaps a waterproof jacket if the location you have chosen is famous for its rain. Light cardigans are always a good idea for after the sun sets.
Miscellaneous Necessities
Shield yourself from the sun's rays or from heavy tropical rains.
Though you might think that you have all the bases covered by bringing your daily toiletries, it is important to remember the additional difficulties that a tropical climate poses. Sunscreen, of course, is a must. Dermatologists recommend finding a sunscreen that covers you across the UVA (the skin cancer-causing strain of UV light) and the UVB (the skin-burning strain of light) spectrum. Aside from that, protecting yourself from mosquitoes and other insects is also a good idea. During the day, rely on a strong insect repellent and, at night, try a mosquito net. Some hotels may have these already available, but it's best to check in advance so you're not left without one. An umbrella is a doubly useful tool; not only will it help shield you from rain, but it will provide shade from the sun on bright, clear days.
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