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Travel In Style: Aruban Vacation Packing List

Vacationing in Aruba should be about relaxing, having fun, and connecting with family and friends.

Vacationing in Aruba should be about relaxing, having fun, and connecting with family and friends.  One of the best ways to ensure that your trip goes smoothly is to think ahead as to what you might need on your vacation - and then pack accordingly.  No one wants to haul an 80-lb. luggage bag around an airport, but neither do you want to get to your destination and realize that you have packed so lightly that you immediately need to find a store and buy half a dozen things that you should have packed.  Using a packing list can help you to narrow down what you want to bring and then not forget to actually bring those things. 

 

Documentation and Paperwork

The first thing to think about when packing for a vacation is what type of documentation and paperwork one will need.  A forgotten swimsuit can be easily replaced upon arrival, but it is much harder to replace personal identification documents.

Packing list:

  • Passport – check well in advance to make sure this is up to date
  • Airline ticket – international flyers should check in at the airport at least three hours prior to the flight
  • Driver’s license – needed for identification at the airport
  • Auto insurance – if you are going to rent a car
  • Medical insurance cards
  • List of important phone numbers
  • Confirmation page printouts on anything you have booked in advance (car rental, dinner reservations, day trips, hotel stay, etc.)

 

Money

Aruban stores, restaurants, hotels, and tour companies all accept U.S. currency, so there is no need to convert your money before coming.  It is good to think about how the money is going to be used so that you know what type of money to bring.

Packing list:

  • Cash – for tipping
  • Credit cards – for charging
  • ATM / Debit cards – for withdrawing cash
  • Traveler’s checks – for added security

 

Medicine / First Aid

Going to a new place, sleeping at different times, and eating different foods can sometimes make the body feel a little bit off.  It is smart to pack a small bag of medicines that can help to relieve discomfort, as well as some basic first aid items. Rest assured though, Aruban pharmacies and drugstores sell all the same brands as back home.

Packing list:

  • Current prescription drugs
  • Vitamins
  • Ibuprofen, anti-acids, and motion sickness pills
  • Hydrocortisone anti-itch cream
  • Thermometer and band-aids
  • Antibiotic ointment and alcohol wipes

 

Toiletries

Toiletries are a necessity, but sometimes frustrating to pack – they are bulky and add a lot of weight to luggage.  Many travelers prefer to pick up toiletries once they reach their destination and after they see what the hotel already has available.  No matter where the items are purchased, the following items are needed on a vacation.

Packing list:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss
  • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Hairbrush, hairbands, hair products
  • Deodorant, lotion, and feminine hygiene products
  • Makeup and jewelry

 

Entertainment / Electronics

There are hundreds of opportunities for adventure in Aruba, but bringing a couple of media entertainment items can help with long flights and relax in the hotel at the end of the day.

Packing list:

  • Cell phone
  • Photo camera
  • Digital music player
  • Computer/tablet – for work
  • Books and reading glasses
  • E-reader for a relaxing read on the beach
  • Chargers for any of these items

 

Clothing

The temperature in Aruba is usually right around 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, so light summery clothing is advised.  Pack clothing for a variety of activities, including both casual and more formal events.

Packing list:

  • Underwear
  • Pajamas
  • Casual pants, shorts, and shirts
  • Dinner clothing
  • Light sweater
  • Workout clothing
  • Shoes (sandals, flip-flops, sneakers, hiking, evening)

 

Beach specific

Sitting on the white sandy beaches of Aruba is an amazing experience, but the fun can be cut short if one is not adequately prepared for the sun. 

Packing list:

  • Swimsuits and beach cover-up
  • Sunglasses and large brimmed hat
  • Lip balm
  • Sunblock and aloe gel
  • Beach bag

The most important thing to remember is to not get stressed in case you forget something; Aruba has multiple full-service shopping malls, large supermarkets with American products and there are always 2 pharmacies  open throughout the night. 

Just relax and enjoy your Aruba Vacation; you deserve it


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