Over years of family travel, I’ve honed my packing skills from tropical destinations… an essential skill considering our favorite destinations are places like Disney’s Aulani, the lush landscapes of Kauai, the stunning overwater bungalows at Soneva in the Maldives, and the vibrant jungles of Costa Rica.

Below, I’ll share my go-to tropical vacation packing list. It’s not just about the items you bring, but also how to pack them efficiently (hint: packing cubes are a game-changer). From the must-have sunscreen to essential gear for the kids, and the perfect outfits for beach days and evenings out, follow along as I reveal how to pack smart for any destination where sun and sand reign supreme!

The ULTIMATE Tropical Vacation Packing List

Travel Gear

Investing in a quality suitcase and using packing cubes to keep everything organized can significantly enhance your travel experience, especially for a tropical vacation where quick access to various items is essential.

Lately, our family has been loving the Atlantic Luggage Hardside Spinners. Their vibrant colors make them a breeze to spot on the luggage carousel. Plus, they’re designed with features perfect for travel: a built-in wet/dry pouch, durable zippers, and effortlessly rolling wheels. It’s the best luggage choice we’ve ever made!

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Clothes

You will need to adjust the quantity of each item based on the duration of your trip and consider the specific activities you have planned to ensure you’re well-prepared for every aspect of your tropical vacation!

• Lightweight T-Shirts and Tank Tops: Aim for breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials.
• Sundresses: Choose light and airy options, perfect for the beach and casual outings. Aim to pack a few for variety.
• Cute Tops: Bring three to five tops, including a mix of fancy and casual. Opt for breathable fabrics suitable for warm weather.
• Jean Shorts: Comfy pairs for everyday wear. Lightweight material is preferable.
• Cocktail Dresses or Jumpsuits: Select items you feel great in for evenings out. Review your itinerary to decide on the number.
• One Pair of Jeans: For cooler evenings or more formal settings. Choose a comfortable, lightweight pair.
• Pajamas: Light, comfortable sleepwear suitable for warm nights.
• Bras: Ensure you pack the right types for each outfit, including strapless or sports bras as needed.
• Underwear: Bring enough for the trip, plus a few extra for hot days when a change might be necessary.
• Socks: Essential if you’re bringing sneakers or plan on doing activities that require them.
• Exercise Clothes: If you plan to work out or for excursions that might be more active. These can also double as comfortable day wear.
• Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt or Sweater: For cooler evenings or protection against the sun.
• Lightweight Jacket or Sweatshirt: Essential for breezy nights or air-conditioned places.
• Swimwear: At least two swimsuits to ensure you always have a dry one ready.
• Cover-Ups: For easy transitions from the beach or pool to other activities without needing to change.

• Hat: A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
• Sunglasses: With UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun.
• Jewelry: This is an easy way to elevate!
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring and outdoor activities.
• Sandals and Flip-Flops: Must-haves for the beach, pool, and relaxed days.
• Water Shoes: These are a must for water activities in areas with rocky or coral-covered bottoms.

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For Littles

• Sippy Cups/Bottles: Bring extras as they’re prone to getting lost.
• Bottle Soap & Brush: Useful for cleaning feeding items.
• Pacifiers & Clips: Pack additional to ensure you’re never without.
• Bibs: Essential to keep those cute vacation outfits clean when eating!
• Diaper Wipes & Cream: Though you can find them pretty much anywhere, it’s always a good idea to have your own.
• Portable Changing Mat: For clean diaper changes anywhere.

• Baby Carrier or Stroller: You will want one of these to make being on-the-go easier
• Favorite Stuffed Animal: Comforts your child in new places.
• Sleepsack: Helps maintain familiar sleep routines.
• Kids’ Medicines/Vitamins: Pack essential medications.
• Car Seat: The WAYB Pico is our choice for Jack when traveling!
• Swim Diapers: Often necessary for resort pools and water parks.
• Rash guard: An easy way to protect toddlers from the sun.
• Water Goggles: My little ones always end up wanting goggles for the water.
• Floaties: If there is a specific kind your little one uses, I recommend bringing them along.

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Toiletries

• Sunscreen– Bring this along unless you enjoy paying an arm & a leg for it- ha! This one is my favorite.
• Shampoo, Conditioner 
• Toothbrush/ Toothpaste
• Makeup
• Dry Shampoo
• Styling Products
• Brush/ Comb
• Curling Iron
• Bobby pins, hair rubber bands
• Deodorant
• Razor
• Bug Repellent
• Lotion
• Makeup Remover
• Wrinkle Release Spray
• Nail Clippers

*If you are packing carry-on only please remember the TSA’s 311 rules- For carry-on, you can bring on liquid toiletries that are under 3oz. Everything must fit in a 1-quart, clear, zip-top bag (1 per person). *Disposable zip-loc bags are fine. For more details visit the TSA’s 311 website. 

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Tech

• Cell Phones and Chargers
• Laptops and Charger
• iPads/Tablets/Kindle
• Headphones
• Camera + charger + extra batteries + extra memory card– trust me on the extras, you will need them!!
• GoPro + charger + extra batteries
• Waterproof Case for phone and/ or camera

Important Documents

• Passports: If traveling internationally you don’t want to forget this!
• Drivers License
• Flight Boarding Documents (if flying): Pretty obvious, but if you are flying home you will want to be prepared with these documents. *Personally I love the FREE app TripIt to keep track of all of my travel documents/ reservation numbers. You can learn more about it here.
• Transportation/ Hotel Reservation Confirmations: While most confirmations can be pulled up electronically these days it never hurts to have them printed as well. *Again I keep mine on TripIt.
• Medical Insurance Card
• Travel Insurance Info: Should you choose to buy travel insurance you will want to make sure you bring any documentation/ contact numbers you may need.

Extras

• Refillable water bottles
• Sunglasses Bring a few because you don’t want to be without a pair.
• Sunhat An absolute must!!
• Purse I bring one big enough to double as a beach tote
• Goggles
• Snorkeling Gear
• GoPro Underwater filters
• Selfie Stick
• Books
• Playing Cards
• Earache Drops
• Wet Bags for bathing suits
• First Aid Kit
• Sanitizing Wipes

Scared of sharks? To put my mind at ease, I have my kiddos wear Sharkbanz, the world’s first active shark deterrent band! They use a patented magnetic technology developed by marine biologists to deter predatory shark species. The technology is based on proven science, published research, and testing. Safe for ages 5+. Grabs yours here!

As we wrap up this guide to packing for your tropical vacation, remember that the key to a successful trip lies not only in the items you choose to bring but also in how you organize them!

Whether you’re heading to the enchanting shores of Disney’s Aulani, exploring the natural beauty of Kauai, relaxing in the Maldives, or adventuring through Costa Rica, a well-packed suitcase can make all the difference.

What is the #1 item on your tropical vacation packing list? I want to hear all about it in the comments below!

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Mama Munchkin

Amber is not only the dynamic CEO and founder of our team but also a dedicated mother of six and savvy entrepreneur. Her extensive travels with her family have not only created lasting memories but have also led to their tight-knit bonds. Helping you bring your family closer together and finding community with all of you is what gets her out of bed everyday (although her toddler plays a role in this as well).

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