What to Pack for an All-Inclusive Vacation
Preparing for your all-inclusive vacation might seem simple, as you’ll mainly be at the pool or beach. However, all-inclusive vacations are fantastic because they simplify the travel experience. You don’t have to plan much, worry about where to eat, or even think too hard about what to do during the day.
Pro Planning Tip: We recommend using Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel to book your All-Inclusive Vacation!
However, packing for an all-inclusive vacation can be tricky. Forgetting items means you have to pay significantly more at the resort shop. Having visited many all-inclusive resorts, I am sharing my packing list to help reduce your packing stress.
This list includes everything you need for a fun and relaxing vacation, from beach essentials to off-site excursions. A well-organized checklist ensures you pack all necessary items and complete any essential tasks before your Caribbean adventure.
All-Inclusive Packing List
Before you travel to an all-inclusive resort, do some research. Many items you usually pack, such as toiletries, towels, and umbrellas, are often provided. You can check suite descriptions to see what’s available, which allows you to pack light.
Packing for an all-inclusive resort can be tricky; you’ll want more than just your swimsuit for a great experience. After visiting several all-inclusive resorts, I’ve compiled a concise packing list to help you decide what to bring.
Clothing for an All-Inclusive Resort
Depending on the length of your trip, you may need to pack more or less clothing.
Swimsuits
You’ll spend most days in your swimsuit, so bringing several suits throughout the trip is always a good idea. Women may want to bring swimwear for the pool, beach, and active water sports, while men may want to bring two pairs of swim trunks.
Swimsuit Cover Ups
Pack several versatile swimsuit cover-ups to easily transition between breakfast, pool, lunch, and activities.
Dressy Clothes
Evening dresses for nice dinners out are a must. Pack three to four tropical sundresses for your evening meals. Men should wear collared shirts and slacks to dinner.
Shorts
While you might not need them, having one casual daytime outfit is a good idea, especially if you plan to partake in any off-property activities.
Short Sleeve Shirts
Again, plan at least one casual daytime outfit as a backup (and also keep in mind what you’ll wear on your return travel day).
Pajamas
Lightweight pajamas are a must while on a Caribbean all-inclusive vacation.
Bras + Underwear
I’m just leaving this reminder here.
Shoes + Accessories for an All-Inclusive Resort
Casual Sandals
You’ll want to pack at least one pair of casual sandals that can get wet. Comfortable sandals that are ideal for walking to the pool or beach.
Dressy Sandals or Shoes
Pack a pair of fancier shoes for the evening. An ideal pair is a neutral sandal or heel that goes with everything.
Small Wallet or Clutch
You won’t need to bring your wallet out much when staying at an all-inclusive resort; however, a small bag and wallet are suitable for carrying your ID, credit card for purchasing souvenirs, and cash for tipping.
Jewelry
Pack a few statement pieces to dress up your dinner outfits, but leave your expensive jewelry home. I love this travel jewelry box.
Special Undergarments
Depending on the sundress you bring, you may need special undergarments; don’t forget the pasties or shapewear.
Pool + Beach for an All-Inclusive Resort
Beach Bag
Don’t forget a small mesh bag to carry your items to the pool or beach.
Sunglasses
I pack at least 2 pairs of sunglasses because I always seem to lose one.
Sun Hat
Protect your face from harmful sun rays with a sun hat.
Pool Float
Many people bring inflatable pool tubes or floats to enjoy at the resort pools. Just be sure to check the hotel’s policy on outside floats.
Waterproof Phone Case
I always pack my waterproof phone case for beach vacations because you never know when you’ll want to take a photo in the pool or on the beach.
Beach Toys
When traveling with young kids be sure to pack beach toys and floaties plenty of fun.
Excursion Essentials
Moisture Wicking Clothing
Depending upon your excursion activity you will probably want to pack lightweight, moisture wicking clothing. Comfortable shorts, tee shirt and athletic socks are ideal for most tours and activities.
Athletic Shoes
You may not wear your sneakers around the resort but if you have an excursion or tour planned you will be glad you packed a pair of sneakers.
Belt Bag
A belt bag is idea for adventures because it keeps your things close to your body but is still lightweight and
Toiletries for an All-Inclusive Vacation
Toiletry Bag
Pack all of the essentials in a toiletry case with room for all of your skin care, medications and more.
Makeup
Keep your makeup rountine to a minimum as you’ll be spending a lot of time outside in the heat and sun. Just don’t forget your SPF moisturizer.
Hair Tools and Products
Most resorts provide a hair dryer but remember to pack curling irons, hair straighteners and accompanying styling products.
Sunscreen and After Sun Lotion
Pack a lot of sunscreen, twice as much as you think you’ll need. And don’t forget about after sun lotion or aloe for any spots you missed.
Bug Spray
A natural bug spray is ideal for off property excursions.
Mini First Aid Kit
I always have a mini first aid kit in my travel bag to treat cuts, blisters or minor injuries/
Prescription Medication
Keep your medication organized in a pill organizer that whould be packed in your carry on bag. Always pack enough for two to three days of medication.
Over-the-counter Medicine
Be sure to pack pain reliver for headaches, Imodium for tummy troubles and allergy medicine.
Miscellaneous Items for an All-Inclusive Vacation
Passport
Don’t forget your passports! Also, don’t delay applying for your passport. The typical turn around time for new or renewed passports is 6 to 8 weeks.
Plug Adapter
The United States, Mexico and most of the Caribbean use type A plug, but confirm the type of outlets at your destintaion. Universal adapters work both ways btween Europe, the UK, US and Australia.
Headphones
Pack a pair of headphones or earbuds to use on the plane or while lounging by the pool.
Cell Phone & Charger
A travel 3-in-1 charger is handy for use in your hotel room. Also consider packing a portable power bank to take on excursions or for long travel days.
Bluetooth Speaker
A small portable bluetooth speaker is handy to keep in your room or to use by the pool.
Book or Kindle
I love bringing a new book on vacation, and I love bringing my Kindle because it’s lightweight and compact.
Cash for Tipping
Even though you’re at an all-inclusive resort, it’s still customary to tip service workers. Tipping in US dollars is acceptable, and you will typically need to pack $10-20 per day.
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