Packing List for the Tropics
I’m a list maker, but I never make a packing list.
Big mistake, as I always wind up in places where I’m unlikely to find what I need.
As much of my travel over the past few years has been in countries with tropical climates, I’ve finally devised a packing list for the tropics:
-Sunglasses (and if you, like me, are prone to break or lose your glasses, then bring a back-up pair)
-Sunscreen: The Caribbean sun and anywhere south of the equator is brighter and hotter than up north. You also burn faster. Sunscreen isn’t optional; it’s obligatory.
-Hat: This is the one item I never bring but which I always regret not having.
-Flip flops: Enough said.
-Tank tops and two pairs of shorts: In the tropics, you can wear the same set of clothes every day and no one really notices or cares. From the moment you put on your clothes in the morning, you’re drenched in sweat, so avoid fancy clothes.
-Bug spray: Another item I never bring and always regret not having. After a bout of dengue fever, I should be more vigilant about bug spray.
-Bandana or head wrap: Water is not always in plentiful supply in tropical areas– at least not from the shower head. Bring a bandana or head wrap to pull back your hair on those days that it doesn’t see shampoo.
-Moist towlettes: The one thing you should definitely not leave home without. These come in handy for everything.
-Small packages of tissues: Plenty of places don’t have toilet paper. Be sure to keep a back-up pack of tissues handy.
What would you add to this list? Do you have a packing list that is specific to a particular place or climate? Share your comments below.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:32 am
I came across this blog the other day and you got some great info here - thanks.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:21 am
This is a great list especially the moist towlettes and tissues, which I never think to bring. In Spain they use little folded fans that the women carry with them everywhere. Best thing ever when you’re sitting on the metro and sweat is beading on your face. I would suggest starting a new trend if they don’t do that down there… it’s the best!
July 21st, 2008 at 10:57 am
Yes, the moist towlettes and tissues are a good to-pack item for any trip, but are truly indispensable below the equator.
July 21st, 2008 at 1:40 pm
Great list!
I would add a sarong which doubles up as a shoulder throw for chilly nights, a wrap around skirt under tops, etc
Moist towelettes - I always carry these!
July 21st, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Great post. I never would’ve thought of the towlettes…very good idea!
I would add chapstick, even if it’s not usually part of your daily regimen. Like you said, the sun is very strong down there and it can fry your lips in no time.
July 21st, 2008 at 4:56 pm
Lola & Sarah- Yes! A sarong. I always keep one in my bag and it does double, triple, quadruple duty! Great addition. Yes, chapstick is also on my list. Thanks for reminding me!
July 22nd, 2008 at 9:19 am
Great list!
I would add talcum powder or corn starch. Depending where you are, this may be hard to find. Walking around, soaked in sweat, can lead to chaffing and fungal infections.