Try to pack with a color scheme in mind so that you can easily mix and match, and minimize on accessories and shoes.
 

Pack an expandable bag that can be used to carry items home that you purchase on your trip.

​

Try to pack easy-care fabrics (wrinkle-free, cotton-knit etc).

​

Wrap toiletries in plastic bags in case they break or leak.

​

A few things you don’t need to worry about packing are towels, irons or hair dryers, as these items are generally available at the resort.

​

Pack a small pouch with commonly needed items including aspirin, bandages and a small sewing kit.

​

Include a few plastic bags for dirty or damp clothes.

​

The last items you pack should be the first things you'll need when you arrive at your destination.

​

Pack necessary chargers for electronics devices you'll be taking along.

​

Don't forget important travel documents like your driver's license, passport, and travel insurance cards.

 

In general, no carry- on item may exceed overall dimensions of 55 inches (length + width + height). All Carry-on items must fit below the seat or in the overhead bins. (Unless your carrier advises otherwise.)

 

For checked baggage, weight limit: 50 lbs. or less (unless your airline advises otherwise); maximum dimensions: 70 inches or smaller (length + width + height.) *Discount carriers often allow up to 40lbs checked and may also charge for carry-ons.

 

Keep all copies of prescriptions, tickets, passports, etc. separate from originals in case of loss.  Keep these types of important documents with you or in your carry-on bag - do not pack these in your luggage in case of loss. Also, please use the in-room safe to store these valuable documents.

 

*Diabetics carrying needles and syringes should have a letter from their physician confirming their need for insulin injections.
 

When packing, place your passport, air ticket receipts, travel insurance documents, contact numbers and any other important information in a pouch or bag that's easily accessible, and carry it with you on your flights. Once you've arrived at the resort, place these important documents in your room safe, or if an in-room safe is not available, in a safety deposit box at the resort's front desk. Please allow someone at home to keep a copy of the first page of your passport in case of loss.

​

Contact your credit card company and give them your travel dates. This will assure they will accept your charges during your vacation, and deny any charges that may show from that destination after your return date (if someone would try to use your number.) Debit cards are not always widely accepted, so I recommend brining a major credit card.

 

Bring lots of $1's and $5's for tipping and small purchases. While it is not always necessary to exchange currency, if you pay with a large bill, you will get local currency in change.

 

If you expect to arrive at the resort before the designated check-in time, pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, flip-flops or sandals and other beach gear in a carry-on bag. If your room isn't ready when you arrive, at least you can still hit the beach or pool. The front desk will store your suitcases for you until you can check in.

 

If your resort offers an upscale restaurant that you plan to visit, there may be a dress code. Pack dressier clothes and shoes for a nice dinner. Typically no jeans, shorts, sneakers or flip flops are allowed in the dining room.

 

Bring a light jacket or sweater -- sometimes evening breezes off the water can be cool.

 

Sunscreen with a high SPF is a necessity in tropical climates. Consider bringing a hat or visor as well, and don't forget the sunglasses. If you expect to do any hiking, you might also add insect repellent to the list.

 

Scuba divers should bring their diving certification card.

 

Bring plenty of memory cards chargers and batteries from home, as these items can be pricey if purchased at a resort.

 

Pack an extra pair of contacts or glasses.

 

Put prescription medicines in your carry-on bag, in case your checked luggage is delayed.

 

Many resorts are adding iPod docks to their in-room amenities as well, so load up your iPod with your favorite vacation tunes and bring that along too.

 

If you have a laptop computer and you want to stay connected to home or work, find out if your hotel has in-room or wireless Internet access. Always carry your laptop onboard your flights.

 

You may bring your cell phones, however, you must call your mobile service provider to assure you will have service and to purchase an International Plan.  Although it will still cost quite a bit to call, the International Plan will make the fees MUCH more tolerable. And you can turn it off when you get home or tell them you would like to pre-schedule the turn-off for the day after you return. Also inquire about texting packages. Data is another confusing subject. We suggest that you ask them to walk you through shutting off data. Then you can turn it back on when you are connected to the resort internet so you won’t pay roaming fees.

 

72 hour prior to departure: Call your airline to reconfirm your flight schedule, seat assignments and baggage charges!

 

For the latest airport security procedures, please visit www.tsa.gov.

​

What can I bring? (Hazardous Materials such as aerosols, airbrush makeup, alcohol, etc.)

 

Bringing Goods Back to the United States:

Keep an envelope and save all receipts from purchases made.

Pack baggage in a manner that will facilitate inspection. It is best to put all items purchased abroad in one bag.

 

While it may seem Customs officials serve only to make international travel difficult, going through Customs doesn’t have to be a confusing mess. Customs agents attempt to keep drugs out of our country and protect U.S. products, trademarks and immigration laws. For more information visit www.customs.gov