When preparing for a romantic island getaway, packing efficiently and thoughtfully can eliminate stress while on your vacation as well as enhance your overall experience. Here are my packing tips for an easy breezy island getaway with your plus one!
*Light, breezy clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or silk. Opt for flowy dresses, skirts, shorts, and loose shirts to keep cool and comfortable in the tropical climate. Wrinkle-free fabrics are my personal favorite, but if you can’t part with a favorite dress and it wrinkles easily, pack a mini garment steamer. Amazon sells them for around $30 and they are very effective.
*Swimwear: Don’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuits! Pack a few options so you can switch it up throughout your trip. If you plan on engaging in water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving, bring appropriate gear if you don’t want to use the resort’s. I also recommend bringing a pair of water shoes.
*Sun protection: The sun can be intense on islands, so pack essential sun protection items such as sunscreen (with a high SPF), sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a cover-up or sarong for additional sun shielding. Remember sarongs and cover-ups can also double as outfits for day or night if they are styled correctly and not too sheer.
*Romantic attire: Consider bringing a few elegant outfits for romantic dinners or special occasions. A nice dress or a smart outfit for men can add a touch of sophistication to your getaway. Be sure to check your resort’s website for any dress codes or theme nights. Insider tip: many Caribbean resorts have a “White Night”.
*Comfortable footwear: Island destinations often involve walking on sandy beaches or exploring nature trails. Pack comfortable shoes like sandals, flip-flops, or lightweight sneakers. If you plan to go hiking, bring appropriate footwear for that as well. For evening, bring one pair of versatile sandals with a low heel that you can wear with all your dinner outfits. Wedges or metallic slides are great choices for women.
*Travel-sized toiletries: Instead of carrying full-sized toiletries, opt for travel-sized bottles to save space and comply with airline regulations. Don’t forget essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, moisturizer, and any specific items you may require. They take up much less room in your luggage as well.
*Insect repellent: Island environments and beaches often have mosquitoes or other insects like noseeums. Pack an effective insect repellent to protect yourself during outdoor activities or evenings. Insider tip: noseeums cannot penetrate the oil barrier of baby oil. Pack some Skin So Soft.
*Snorkeling gear: If you enjoy snorkeling, consider bringing your own mask, snorkel, and fins. While some resorts may provide these, having your own ensures a proper fit and adds convenience. I bring my full-face mask snorkel on most of my island trips, as the regular masks fill up with water too quickly.
*Entertainment: Bring along a book, e-reader, or any other form of entertainment for downtime. Relaxing on the beach or by the pool with a captivating read is a luxury for many busy couples.
*Travel documents: Don’t forget to carry your passports, travel insurance information, flight tickets, hotel reservations, and any other necessary documents in a safe and easily accessible place.
*Electronics and chargers: If you plan to bring electronic devices like cameras, smartphones, or laptops, remember to pack their chargers, adapters, and any necessary cables.
*Romance essentials: To add a touch of romance, consider packing a few items like scented candles, massage oils, or your favorite romantic playlist to create a special ambiance in your accommodation.
Remember to check the weather forecast for your destination and consider any specific activities or events you have planned. By packing smartly, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable and romantic island getaway. See below for links to some of the travel items mentioned above, for your convenience.