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Packing List for Kids for All-Inclusive Resorts

Parents! Are you wondering what to pack for an all-inclusive resort with the whole family? We realize that the stress of traveling with kids can sometimes take center stage of a vacation. To help you be prepared for the journey to, during, and from the resort, we’ve compiled a packing list for kids for all-inclusive resorts so that the family vacation will be a positive experience for everyone!

Packing List for All-Inclusive Resort

In addition to this packing list for all-inclusive resorts, we’ll make sure that you don’t forget some of the essentials, no matter who you’re traveling with, to allow your vacation to be as relaxing and stress-free as possible. We know that children vary in age and preferences to what they like and don’t like, so take this list and adapt it to fit your own child’s needs. We’re assuming you’ll pack the basics like diapers, baby wipes, their toiletries and outfits. The packing list below are a few items we know you won’t want to leave home without.

Packing List Essentials for Kids

  • Clothes
    • It’s better to be safe than sorry, so if your child hasn’t reached that golden age of being potty-trained, pack an extra change of clothes in your carry-on. We recommend your children wear something comfortable while traveling, especially if the journey is longer than they’re used to. A comfortable pair of shoes that are easy to slip on and off can also be a game-changer!
  • Instant Meals
    • Is your child a picky eater, only sticking to a few of their favorites when it comes to meal time? Throw in some instant oatmeal packets, breakfast bars, Pop-tarts, or even microwavable noodles when packing for an all-inclusive resort. There may be a chance that your child doesn’t want to eat what’s being offered at the buffets, or “knock on wood” falls ill and can only stomach more bland options. In our experience, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
  • Snacks
    • Pack enough of your child’s favorite snacks for the journey to and from your all-inclusive resort. Everyone has their favorite snacks, whether it’s crackers, carrot sticks, candy, or grapes. Don’t forget to pack yourself some traveling snacks, too! Remember, once you arrive, your family will be fed and taken care of during their stay, so there’s no need to over pack here.
    • If your children struggle with pressure change during flights, try packing some gummies, gum, or suckers to help alleviate pressure in the ears. Pack enough for take off and landing, but don’t worry about bringing enough for the entire flight.
  • Sanitizing Wipes
    • Before digging in to that snack bag you packed, it’s best to wipe down the kids’ hands. Avoid multiple trips to the bathroom by having hand sanitizer or wipes available in your carry-on.
      • We also recommend wiping down the pockets, armrests, windows and tray tables on your flights. Studies have shown that those are where the germs love to be, so avoid getting sick before getting to your resort with a little wipe down.
  • Sealable Plastic Bags
    • These are always an essential item to pack when traveling with kids! We recommend packing a few Zip-lock bags of different sizes. You never know when you’ll need to throw that wet swimsuit or soiled t-shirt in a bag to deal with later. Plastic bags are also useful when you can’t locate a trash can, like when you’re all playing in the sand, or for when you want to save those seashells as a unique souvenir of the family trip.
  • Permanent Marker
    • Grab a Sharpie, or two, and pack them in your carry-on or checked luggage. Many families find it useful to label items such as water bottles, toys, and even the clothing tags with their names. Resorts will have a “lost and found” area, but you’ll be a lot more likely to find your kid’s favorite lost toy if it was labeled with your last name ahead of time.
  • Bath Toys
    • Allow your child to pick their favorite toy or two from the tub. Bringing a toy from home for the bath time routine can help your child feel a sense of security and familiarity in a foreign place. These can also double as pool toys at the resort during the day.
  • Unplugged Entertainment
    • Bring books! We recommend bringing one of your child’s favorite books for each night you’ll be away, plus 2-3 new books for the vacation. Books also make great souvenirs, so this is an item you can pick out together at a souvenir shop or local bookstore. If you’re trying to pack light, load their books onto an electronic reading device or audio player.
    • Coloring materials such as coloring books, washable markers, crayons, and plain paper are great unplugged essentials to include in this packing list.
    • A deck of playing cards, or other favorite family card game, can keep your kids occupied for ridiculous amounts of time! If they tire of playing the games they already know, you can encourage them to make up their own new games!
    • Create your own games of I-Spy or other word games if you’re trying to save space in your suitcases, want your kids to spend some time unplugged, or heaven-forbid, the batteries die mid-flight!
  • Electronic Entertainment
    • Make sure your tablets, mobile phones, and other electronic devices are charged up and loaded with your kids’ favorite games, music, and TV shows. Don’t forget to charge these items once you arrive at your all-inclusive resort, for the time spent there and the flight home.
  • Headphones
    • Be sure that everyone traveling with you has their own set of headphones. Cut down on how much your children have to share, even down to the earbuds they’re using, to help prevent confrontation.
  • Medicine
    • As a parent, you want to be as prepared as possible for your children. We’ve provided this list of basic medicine essentials for whatever may arise before, during, and after the vacation.
      • Liquid pain relievers such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, etc.
      • Thermometer
      • Motion Sickness Medication
      • Constipation Medication
      • Anti-Diarrheal Medication
      • Milk of Magnesia
      • Prescription Medications

This packing list for kids for all-inclusive resorts provides some of the important items that a family typically needs when traveling. You’ll be glad you packed these items with you, and your vacation will be relaxing and enjoyable knowing you’ve brought the essentials from home! If you’re planning on leaving the kids behind for a romantic getaway or a much needed break, be sure to review the packing lists for men and women we’ve created. You’ll appreciate having all of your essentials and comforts on vacation, too!

We’d love to hear about your own packing lists and essential items that you’ve brought with you on family vacations. Leave a comment below to include anything we may have missed. Happy packing!

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Packing Light for an All-Inclusive Resort

Have you ever unpacked from a vacation, only to realize that the shirt you thought you’d definitely wear or the emergency first aid kit you thought you’d need never even came out of your luggage? Packing light for an all-inclusive resort can be a real challenge for many people. We’ve collected these packing tips and tricks that will have you packing your carry-on luggage and traveling light in no time!

Packing Light Tips and Tricks

We recently backpacked, yes, with an actual backpack, through Europe for a little over 3 months. Our backpacks ranged in weight from 17-20 lbs, depending on what we wore or packed each time we moved to our next destination. There were many times on our trip where we were grateful to have packed light, usually during the times we had several stairs to climb or when we ran to catch our next train. Living out of a backpack for this long taught us many valuable tips and tricks for packing light.

Packing Light; Luggage

When packing light for an all-inclusive resort, or any vacation for that matter, it’s important to start with small luggage. If you choose carry-on size luggage, it will immediately cut down on how much you can pack with you. Bring a smaller backpack to fit inside of your carry-on. Drawstring backpacks work great, allowing you to have a smaller, daytime backpack while you’re on vacation, and leaving you room for souvenirs on the way home. Be sure to check with your airline for their rules and conditions for carry-on sizes. Some flights restrict the amount, size, or weight of carry-on bags.

Once you’ve picked out your carry-on luggage, you’ll want to get yourself some packing cubes. Minimalists, and those who prefer to pack light for vacations, swear by them! Packing cubes help keep your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and miscellaneous items organized inside of your luggage. You’ll never have to dig down into a deep, dark backpack looking for that one sock or the belt you swear you packed but haven’t been able to find in days.

Flying Light

As a flying tip, we suggest wearing your heaviest, bulkiest clothes on your flights. This will alleviate some of the weight in your bag. Personally, we like to wear layers of clothes when flying. Wearing layers allows travelers to be prepared for those AC blasts of freezing air, or shed a few articles of clothing if the temperature starts to heat up. We also recommend wearing your heaviest pair of shoes, typically your pair of hiking boots or athletic shoes. This will save you a ton of space in your carry-on.

Avoid being barked at by TSA, and have your liquids prepared in a Zip-lock bag before going through security. Not only does this ensure that all of your liquids are together, it will also get you through security a little bit faster. Remember to empty your water bottle of any liquids before going through security. Most airports have drinking fountains scattered throughout their terminals. It’s best to top off your water bottle before take-off.

One last piece of advice when it comes to packing light and flying is about your jewelry. Many minimalist travelers recommend that you wear your jewelry when you fly. You’ll get a few major benefits from doing this. First, you’ll fly confident, knowing that none of your jewelry can be stolen from your bag while in flight, since they’ll be on you. Second, you’ll avoid losing an earring or bracelet somewhere in your backpack only to have to unpack every last item to find it later. Last, you will end up saving even the smallest amount of room in your luggage. Every little bit counts when packing light!

Packing Light; Toiletries and Medication

Explore the possibility of sharing a toiletry bag with your traveling companion(s). You’ll be getting ready for the day and brushing your teeth in the same bathroom when you’re on vacation. Why not share one toiletry bag so that you can both pack light? Putting your toiletries in the same bag can save you valuable luggage space. When possible, share bags and/or products with your traveling companion. No need to bring two electrical adapters if you can get by with sharing one. Ask yourself, and your traveling buddy, which items on your packing list can be shared on your trip. We share this toiletry bag from Amazon, and we love that it’s the perfect size for us to share and has so many additional pockets for our personal items.

Save space and pack light by buying toiletry items once you arrive. This may require you to do some additional shopping, but it gives you a great excuse to dive in to a local market while you’re there! Buying toiletries while abroad also allows you to have peace of mind when traveling, knowing that you don’t have any liquids spilling or leaking in your bag during a flight. Your all-inclusive resort, and most hotels, provide the bathroom amenities for their guests so you don’t have to pack them. Our packing list rule of thumb is that if the item can be found at the destination, leave it at home.

If you have a favorite soap, shampoo, conditioner, or even lotion that you can’t seem to leave home without, try bringing it in solid bar form. By packing solid bar soaps over liquid bottles, you leave a lighter footprint while traveling. Bar soaps and shampoos are also known to last up to 3x longer than their liquid counterparts. You’ll end up getting a lot more bang for your buck! I personally love to pack LUSH bar shampoos when I travel. One bar lasted me the entire 3 months I was abroad in Europe, and I never once had to worry about whether or not there would be soap at our next accommodation.

If you do decide to buy before you fly, buy travel size toiletries. They are smaller, lighter, and typically carry-on size safe (3.0 fluid oz or less). If you’re vacationing for an extended period of time, we recommend buying travel size toiletries along the trip. Their convenient size will still allow you to travel and pack light. You can also toss the items or leave them behind when you’re done with them or ready to return home.

To help you stick to a light packing list for all-inclusive resorts, only pack prescription medications. Leave the rest at home! Ask about your resort’s first-aid kit upon checking in. Emergency hangover pills, cold medicine, vitamins, and even motion sickness pills can usually be found in your resort’s gift shop available for purchase. There are doctors and pharmacies where you’re going, in case a real emergency occurs. If you’re curious about travel medical insurance, you can always read more to find out if it’s something you wish to travel with.

Ladies, this one’s for you; reusable menstrual cups! Not only are they much better for the environment, they’re also better for a woman’s body. Forget about having to buy, let alone find, your favorite period products when traveling in a foreign country. Reusable menstrual cups can save you room, time, and money when traveling abroad with your “monthly visitor”.

Packing Light; Clothing

Clothes can often take up the most space when packing light for an all-inclusive resort. Packing light for a vacation may require you to do more laundry while traveling, but this will mean packing less clothes. In addition to your packing list essentials, bring a Zip-lock bag of laundry detergent, preferably the powdered kind. You can also stick a few fabric softener sheets in between your clothes to keep your outfits smelling fresh, while also having these on hand for laundry day! You can leave your entire wardrobe at home, and pack a few versatile favorites.

Packing light expert Alex Jimenez, Founder and Editor of Travel Fashion Girl, gives great advice when she says, “When choosing your clothing for a trip, take a look at each item’s fabric and consider the following factors: quality, thickness, weight, wrinkles, transparency, and texture. Your ideal travel clothing is durable, takes up minimal space and weight, is wrinkle-free and opaque, and matches with the rest of your clothing in style and fit.” Another great tip when it comes to clothing is to avoid cotton in your materials. Look for wool or other synthetics that will wash and dry quickly. We’ve done our fair share of doing laundry in a sink, and nothing weighs you down more than packing wet clothes with you.

Before packing for an all-inclusive resort, or any vacation where you’re aiming to pack light, lay out all of the clothes you’re considering bringing. Hold up each item and ask yourself these 5 questions. Aim for your clothing to be a “yes” for at least 3 out of these 5 questions. If it doesn’t meet at least three, it should probably be left behind.

  • Is it comfortable for touring around, but can be dressed up for an evening out?
  • Is it appropriate for cool or warm weather (ideally the weather I’ll be experiencing on my trip)
  • Does it show stains?
  • Does it fold/roll up small?
  • Does it coordinate well with almost everything else I’m bringing?

When it comes to what you’ll wear on vacation, our best advice is to make multiple uses out of a single item. For example, you can incorporate your swimsuit into everyday attire. Guys’ swim trunks can double as a pair of shorts. A swimsuit cover for women can double as a sundress during the day or an outfit later in the evening. A bathing suit sarong can be used for extra privacy, a nursing cover, skirt, head wrap, scarf, beach towel, picnic blanket, and so on! Some light packers even use their bikini tops and bottoms as undergarments to be easily washed and rinsed later.

You can also stretch your socks! Unless you have severe foot sweat or feet odor, you can probably make one pair of socks last for at least a couple of days’ wear and tear. We bought socks during our 3+ months backpacking when we needed new pairs. Remember, buy what you can when you’re there instead of packing it all with you ahead of time! Chances are your all-inclusive resort is taking you to a tropical climate, so you’ll be sporting sandals or flip-flops when you’re not barefoot on the beach. Those are two very light shoes to pack!

At a Quick Glance

  • 6-7 shirts/tank tops (layers)
  • 7 pairs of underwear, although some minimalists recommend packing 3 (one to wear, one to wash, one to dry)
  • 1 pair of pants (jeans or slacks depending on your all-inclusive dress code)
  • 2 pairs of shorts (1 if you plan on wearing your swimsuit as a pair)
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • 1 sweatshirt or sweater
  • 1 swimsuit
  • 1 hat (a favorite, since you’ll be wearing it more than you might expect)

Miscellaneous Packing Light Tips and Tricks

We know that there are endless tips and tricks to packing light for an all-inclusive resort. Remember that your food, drink, and entertainment will be provided once you arrive. In addition, you’ll also find that most resorts include soaps, shampoos, and lotions, and have other toiletry essentials available upon request. If your packing list essential can be found at your location, it’s best not to include it. Here are a few more tricks for packing light:

  • Rent gear instead of packing it; do you really have to pack that snorkel and mask, or can you rent one at the beach?
  • Bring an inflatable travel pillow for flights; deflating it when you’re done will save a lot of room!
  • Pack a Number padlock key so you don’t have to worry about losing a key or keeping it on you when you’re out and about. Your room should provide a safe, but many travelers feel a sense of extra security bringing their own lock from home for their valuables.
  • Download, download, download; consider switching to e-books and loading your phone with music and shows to save tons of room and keep things light. If you can avoid working while on vacation, leave the laptop at home.
  • Leave the “What If” items behind. Instead of wondering “what if I had packed lighter” or “what if I wasn’t lugging all of this extra stuff around”, ease your burden by packing for the best-case scenario instead of worst-case scenarios. Leave the extras at home!

It’s ironic that a post about packing light would be so long, but there are numerous tips and tricks to share! We know we haven’t covered them all, and some may work better for you than others. We’d love to hear about your own packing lists for light traveling and essential items that you’ve brought on vacations. Leave a comment below to include anything we may have missed. Happy packing!

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Men’s Packing List for All-Inclusive Resorts

Fellas! Are you wondering what to pack for an all-inclusive resort? We’ve had many experiences with packing for vacations, and have created this list of essential items specific to men. Deciding what to pack for an all-inclusive vacation shouldn’t take you hours. We’ve put in the time to come up with the ultimate packing list for you!

Packing List for All-Inclusive Resorts

In addition to this packing list for all-inclusive resorts, we’ll make sure that don’t forget some of these essentials to allow your vacation to be as relaxing and stress-free as possible.

Men’s Packing List Essentials

  • Razor
    • Electric razors can be big and bulky, taking up valuable space in your luggage. Bring a disposable razor if you plan on staying more than a few days at your resort and want to take care of any 5 o’clock shadows.
  • Swimsuits
    • We recommend packing 2-3 swimsuits. Packing more than one swimsuit allows you to wear one while the others dry, so you never have to bother with putting on cold, damp shorts on vacation. Swim shorts can even double as a pair of shorts to wear when you’re away from the pool or beach, saving you room in your luggage.
  • Hair Products
    • If you’ve been blessed with a gorgeous head of hair, you may want to pack some of your favorite hair products. These include your go-to gels, sprays, and combs. Remember that if you’re planning to carry-on your luggage, hair products need to be in 3.0 fluid oz containers.
  • Cologne
    • To avoid the rest of your luggage smelling like Calvin Klein, pack your bottle of cologne in a Zip-lock bag. We like to be on the safe side and always double bag our liquids. If your goal is to pack light, try visiting cologne and perfume stores and ask for a sample of your smell. Their sample sizes are usually the perfect amount to tide you over during your vacation.
  • Condoms – Just in case!
  • Collared Shirt
    • You’re likely going to come across a dress code for a restaurant or club at your resort. Dress to impress, and to get in, by packing at least one collared shirt. This typically includes polo shirts and button down collared shirts.
    • Feel free to pack your favorite tie. We recommend trying on the collared shirt and tie together before you leave, so that you can ensure the outfit compliments you and your style.

This packing list for all-inclusive resorts provides some of the important items that a man’s luggage typically contains. You’ll be glad you packed these items with you, and your vacation will be relaxing and enjoyable knowing you’ve brought the essentials from home! If you’re planning on traveling with a female companion, be sure to share this women’s packing list with her. She’ll appreciate having all of her essentials and comforts with her on your vacation, too.

We’d love to hear about your own packing lists and essential items that you’ve brought with you on vacations. Leave a comment below to include anything we may have missed. Happy packing!

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Women’s Packing List for All-Inclusive Resorts

Ladies! Are you wondering what to pack for an all-inclusive resort? I’ve had many experiences with packing for vacations. Sometimes I’ve over packed or left behind those essential ponytail holders and extra bobby-pins. Let my past packing mistakes and lessons learned spare you, and instead, guide you to the ultimate packing list for women!

Packing List for All-Inclusive Resorts

In addition to this packing list for all-inclusive resorts, we’ll make sure you don’t forget some of these essentials to allow your vacation to be as relaxing and stress-free as possible.

Women’s Packing List Essentials

  • Hair Products
    • This includes your hair ties and ponytail holders. I always bring a few extras, because they usually snap right when you’re needing one! You may want to pack extra bobby pins, too. Elastic headbands are great for keeping hair out of your face while splashing in the pool or laying out in the sun.
    • If you’re planning on styling your hair in something other than a beach bun, you may want to consider bringing travel size hair sprays and/or anti-frizz spray to help manage your do.
  • Accessories
    • If your ears are pierced, we recommend packing at least two pairs of earrings – casual daytime studs and a dressier pair for your nights out. Choose your favorites, then pierce them through a Zip-lock baggie. I’ve found this to be the best way that my earrings don’t get lost in my luggage, and they stay untangled from the rest of my jewelry.
    • In addition to earrings, most women will pack a necklace or two. Again, I recommend packing a casual option as well as a more formal piece. I tend to pack a shorter, choker necklace to wear during the day, and a favorite pendant for the evenings. Be sure to check if your jewelry is waterproof before diving in!
    • You can’t go wrong with packing bracelets. I prefer to wear a few of my favorite bangles, as they can compliment almost any type of outfit. Many women even sport a bug-repellent bracelet as their choice of accessory, especially if they’re traveling to a tropical all-inclusive resort!
  • Makeup
    • Don’t bother bringing your whole makeup routine with you! Just pack the essentials, like an SPF foundation, minimal eye shadow, and your favorite lipstick color. Less is more when it comes to vacation makeup, so keep it light and casual!
    • Make-up remover is an essential vacation item often left behind. You may want to bring wipes instead of a bottle and cotton pads when packing. Wipes often take up less space, and are always approved for carry-ons.
  • Extra Special Toiletries
    • Even if you’re not planning to have your monthly visitor join you on your vacation, it’s best to pack a few tampons and/or pads in your toiletry bag.
    • If you’re prone to uncomfortable period cramps, remember to pack your menstrual relief pills i.e. Midol, Aleve, Tylenol, etc. I recommend packing a few Hot Hands Hand Warmers. They are a great substitute for heating pads, and are allowed on both carry-on and checked luggage.
    • Condoms – Just in case!
    • Perfume – To avoid the rest of your luggage smelling like Victoria’s Secret, pack your perfume in a Zip-lock bag. I like to be on the safe side and always double bag my liquids. If your goal is to pack light, try visiting a perfume store and ask for a sample of your smell. Sample sizes are usually the perfect amount to tide you over during your vacation.
    • Razor – You may want to touch up your bikini line, clean up your armpit areas, and shave your legs if you’re planning on staying more than a few days at your resort.
    • Medications – Birth control pills, allergy medicine, motion sickness pills, etc.
  • Bras
    • You’ll probably be traveling somewhere hot. In my experience, sports bras are the way to go! They’re super comfy, great at handling sweat, can be rinsed and washed easily, and can often double as a bikini top if you’re planning on packing light.
    • I’ve found it best to try on that strappy dress you plan to wear during your vacation with the bra(s) you’ll be packing. That way, you know what straps will and won’t show prior to dressing up and how the outfit will fit and look in the end.
  • Swimsuits
    • I’ve found it best to pack 2-3 swimsuits. No one likes the feeling of putting on a cold, damp swimsuit. Packing extras will ensure that you can wear one while the others dry. In my experience, I’ve even gotten away with wearing my dry bikini top as a bra, so I was always prepared for sunbathing and water-ready!
    • You may also want to pack a light swimsuit cover. A cute maxi dress or sun dress can double as a swimsuit cover, saving you room in your suitcase for those of you that prefer to pack light.

Everyone packs a little differently and likes to include a comfort or two from home on their vacation. So, if there’s something we haven’t listed that you feel would be essential, by all means, pack it! This woman’s packing list for all-inclusive resorts provides some of the important items that a woman’s luggage typically contains. You’ll be glad you packed these items with you, and your vacation will be relaxing and enjoyable knowing you’ve brought your feminine essentials!

If you’re planning on traveling with a male companion, be sure to point him in the right direction and share this men’s packing list with him. He’ll appreciate the extra help.

We’d love to hear about your own packing lists and essential items that you’ve brought with you on vacations. Leave a comment below to include anything we may have missed. Happy packing!

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What to Pack for an All-Inclusive Resort

Are you wondering what to pack for an all-inclusive resort? For many travelers, going to a resort is unlike any other vacation experience they’ve had. So, it makes sense that packing for one would be a little different as well. Deciding what to pack for an all-inclusive resort shouldn’t take you hours (we’ve taken care of that part). After reading this article, you’ll be set with a packing list for an all-inclusive resort and can put your mind at ease, knowing you didn’t forget anything important. You’ll even have room to spare for souvenirs!

Packing List for All-Inclusive Resort

We’ve put together this packing list for all-inclusive resorts that will help you bring the necessary items from home, while still leaving your suitcase with enough room for some of those unique souvenirs. After plenty of our own experience in packing for vacations, we’ve compiled this packing list to help you get started.

Packing List Essentials

  • Passport
    • We recommend leaving this in your room safe as soon as you check in. Just don’t forget it on the way home.
  • Travel Documents
    • This includes Visas, a printed copy of your resort reservation, printed boarding passes for flights, and even a copy of your Passport, all to be left in your room safe upon check in.
  • Credit Card and Debit Card
    • You won’t be needing these at your all-inclusive resort, but it’s best to have them with you for your journey to and from.
  • Cash – just a few hundred, in case of emergencies.
  • Sunscreen
    • If you’re flying to your all-inclusive resort and want to stick with carry-on luggage only, make sure your bottle(s) of SPF are 3.0 fluid oz or less. Buying sunscreen at the resort will always cost you more than bringing it yourself.
  • Sunglasses
    • Of course you’ll want your sunnies for the beach and splashing in the pool. We recommend packing two pairs, in case one breaks or gets lost.
  • Electric Adapter(s)
    • If you’re leaving the country, you’ll want to bring an adapter. Chances are your phone charger won’t work if you can’t plug it in to another country’s outlet, and you’ll want to be charged up to take those selfies later. Remember that the US, Canada, and Mexico all have the same electrical outlets, so if you’re traveling to or from anywhere else, bring your adapter!
  • Pens
    • You may be wondering, “Why are pens essential?”. Traveling to and from your all-inclusive resort might require you to fill out a lot of paperwork i.e. customs documents. Be the hero that’s prepared by bringing a few pens to share with the passengers around you.
  • Toiletries
    • These include your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, condoms, medications (both prescribed and non), and lip balm.
    • Other toiletries could include contacts, contact solution, hair ties, hair clips, earplugs, hand-sanitizer, motion-sickness pills, bug repellent, and band-aids.
    • Your all-inclusive resort should provide you with shampoos, body soaps, and lotions, but if you prefer your own, be sure to pack them in 3.0 fluid oz bottles unless checking a bag.
  • BYOCup
    • Bring Your Own Cup! Remember to pack your favorite tumbler or reusable bottle. This will help to keep your bottomless beverages cold while you sip and sunbathe the day away. Depending on how large your container is, you may save yourself multiple trips to the bar for refills, which means more time to relax!
  • Books
    • Depending on how avid of a reader you are, you should bring a book, or several! Some resorts have a free book exchange, but most vacationers bring their own books, often the ones that have been on their “to-read” list. You’ll finally have the time to read that novel everyone’s been raving about!
  • Clothes
    • Underwear – enough for each day you’re staying, plus a few extras!
    • Socks – enough pairs for each day of your vacation, but you’ll probably be sporting sandals or flip flops the majority of the time, so don’t worry about packing too many additional pairs.
    • Shirts – We recommend tank-tops and/or light t-shirts, one for each day of your vacation. If you’re worried about not having enough room, check out our packing list for light packers to help you save room in your suitcase.
    • Sweater/Sweatshirt – It may be sunny and sweltering outside, but all-inclusive resorts tend to blast the Air Conditioning indoors. You’ll be glad you packed that comfy sweatshirt when you’re curled up in your room for the night.
    • Shorts – You’re probably heading somewhere dreamy and tropical, so you’ll want to have enough pairs of comfortable shorts.
    • Ladies, you can switch out a pair or two of shorts for a skirt, too!
    • Pants – We recommend bringing at least one pair of pants. This can be anything from yoga pants, a pair of slacks, or even a pair of jeans.
    • Hat – Be sure to pack your favorite baseball cap or big sun hat for when you’re lounging by the pool or strolling down the beach. This will be one accessory to your wardrobe you’ll be glad you packed.
  • Swimsuits
    • We recommend bringing at least two swimsuits so that one can be drying while the other one is being worn. This will probably be what you wear the most during your week in paradise, so be sure to pick ones you’ll feel confident and comfortable wearing!
  • At least one formal dining outfit
    • Ladies, don’t forget to bring that Little Black Dress. You can also make the most out of a sun dress or maxi dress by wearing it during the day as one outfit, and by night as your dinner attire.
    • Guys, this means a pair of slacks and a collared shirt. Most high-end restaurants at resorts enforce a dress code, and you won’t want to miss out on the dishes they have to offer.
  • Shoes
    • Try finding something that can be comfortable to walk around the resort with. You’ll be walking from your room to the open bars, restaurants, spa treatments, the beach and back, so packing a pair of cheap flip-flops is a great idea.
    • You may also fancy putting on those dancing shoes and staying up late into the evening at the resort’s club. It’s best to pick a shoe that can be versatile, so that you have more room in your suitcase for souvenirs on the way home!
    • Many resorts have a close-toed shoe policy at their high-end restaurants. Be sure to do your research and check out your resort’s dress code prior to packing.

A Quick Look at What to Pack for an All-Inclusive Resort

  • Passport
  • Travel Documents
  • Credit & Debit Card
  • Cash
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Electric Adapter
  • Water Bottle(s)
  • Pens
  • Toiletries
  • Tumbler/Reusable Cup
  • Book(s)
  • Clothes
  • Swimsuits
  • Formal Dinner Attire
  • Shoes

We hope this quick list will help you know what to pack for an all-inclusive resort. If you’re a lighter packer, or always find that you’ve over packed for vacations, be sure to check out our packing list for light packers. When it comes to packing for vacations, we know that men and women require different vacation essentials. Ladies, check out this women’s packing list for more tips and tricks on what to pack. Gentlemen, feel free to peruse our men’s packing list for additional items on what to pack for an all-inclusive resort. If you’re traveling with the kids, be sure to read about what to pack for an all-inclusive resort with kids before you grab those suitcases.

We’d love to hear about your own packing lists and essential items that you’ve brought with you on vacations. Leave a comment below to include anything we may have missed. Happy packing!