Tropical cruises and vacations are very popular. The warm, lush climate calls for the packing of special items to accommodate heat, frequent rain showers, and bothersome insects.
Three Tropical Essentials: Hat, Sunglasses and Sunscreen
Don’t leave home without these three items. On many tropical islands and other remote locations there may be few places buy these items. The selection may be poor, and if the items are available they will be real expensive.
Most tropical vacations, whether or not they are cruises, include much time outdoors and most likely an excursion or two by boat. This makes a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen important items for skin protection.
Tropical Climate Rain Gear
It rains most every afternoon in tropical climates. It is essential that a traveler carry some kind of rain gear at all times. A lightweight, hooded jacket works best, something to keep the rain off but not to add heat as it will be warm even as it rains. The best kind of rain gear is easily folded and carried along.
A compact, portable umbrella can make a nice sun shade for walks outdoors in a tropical climate as well as providing protection for sudden showers. Waterproof shoes or sandals are also a good bet to avoid wet feet all day.
Everyday Clothing
Clothing for a tropical climate should be lightweight. Cotton or cotton blends that dry quickly and lightweight knits are among the best choices, as items rinsed out in a tropical climate take much longer to dry. Heavier clothing such as thick knits and denims should be avoided as they will not be dry the next morning and packing them along wet can cause mildew and unpleasant odor within the suitcase which may spread to the other clothes.
Most tropical vacations are casual. One dress outfit is enough. Travelers will want to bring along a good assortment of short sleeved tops and shorts or capris. Of course, as swimsuit is a must. Tucking in at least one long-sleeved shirt may also be a good idea for evenings where insects may be bothersome. A long-sleeved shirt may also be wanted for daytime walks along the beach to prevent sunburned shoulders. Though nights are seldom cool, a light sweater and long pants may be tucked in if room allows.
Shoes for the Tropical Climate
Comfortable casual shoes such as sneakers or sandals are great for tropical climates. A pair of nice shoes or sandals that can double for dress shoes can save space in the suitcase. Shoes that are waterproof are a plus for the boat deck or the beach, so a pair of lightweight waterproof sandals or beach shoes are good to tuck along.
Tropical Cruise or Vacation Packing Checklist
Below is a handy checklist of items that will prove essential on a tropical cruise or vacation.
- 1 lightweight outer jacket (preferably waterproof and hooded)
- 3-4 t-shirts, mostly short sleeves
- 1-2 wrinkle free long-sleeved blouse
- 4 pairs of casual pants, jeans, shorts or capris
- 2 pair shoes or sandals
- 1 good skirt or dress outfit with shoes
- swimsuit (two if a lot of swimming is planned)
- snorkeling gear (optional)
- 2 nightgowns or pajamas and lightweight robe
- socks and underwear
- insect repellant, makeup, medicine, and travel documents
Readers may also enjoy the vacation articles: How to Pack Clothes for Summer Vacation: Smart Packing Tips on What to Bring for a Two-Week Trip,Three Essential Women's Shoes to Pack for Vacation,
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