Your Essential Packing Guide for a Puerto Rico Adventure

Planning a trip to the sun-kissed shores of Puerto Rico? With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes, this Caribbean gem offers a myriad of experiences for travelers. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring historic San Juan, or hiking through El Yunque National Forest, packing wisely can make all the difference. To help you prepare, we've put together a comprehensive guide on what to pack and what to buy locally, ensuring your vacation is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

What to Pack Before You Leave

• Lightweight Clothing: Embrace the tropical climate with breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Pack your favorite shorts, tank tops, and sundresses to stay cool and comfortable.

• Swimwear: Puerto Rico's beaches are a must-visit, so bring along a couple of swimsuits and a stylish cover-up for those sunny days by the water. Pro tip: Bring at least 2-3 swimming suits with you. 

• Activewear: Planning on hiking or taking yoga classes? Pack comfortable athletic wear to keep up with your active itinerary.

• Flip Flops - a must!

• Tennis Shoes: Perfect for beach days and city strolls, these will keep you comfortable on your adventures.

• Sunglasses and Hat: Protect yourself from the Caribbean sun with a good pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat or cap.

• Beach Bag: A foldable tote or backpack is perfect for carrying essentials like sunscreen, towels, and snacks.

• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your trip with an eco-friendly water bottle.

• Camera and Chargers: Capture all the beautiful moments and keep your devices powered up.

• Portable Charger: Long days out exploring call for a reliable portable power bank.

• Passport/ID and Travel Insurance: A passport is not required, but a Real ID may be. 

• Cash and Cards: While credit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand is always a good idea for smaller purchases and tips. Pro Tip: Cash is king & many food vendors only accept cash. Some places accept Venmo or Apply Pay, but it may not be as widely accepted as you think.
  
  

  What to Buy in Puerto Rico

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect both your skin and the environment by purchasing reef-safe sunscreen locally. This ensures compliance with local regulations and supports sustainable tourism.
• Mosquito Repellent: Available in local stores, buying insect repellent on the island ensures effectiveness against the local insect population.
• Full-Sized Products: Save space in your luggage by purchasing shampoo, conditioner, and body wash once you arrive.
• Snorkel Gear - Rent or Buy Locally: If snorkeling is on your agenda, consider renting or purchasing gear locally to save space and ensure quality.
• Puerto Rican Delicacies: Treat yourself to local snacks, coffee, and rum during your stay, and consider bringing some back as souvenirs.
• Eco-Friendly Options: With plastic bags banned, purchasing reusable bags locally supports both the environment and local businesses.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Support Local Businesses: Buying items locally not only supports Puerto Rico’s economy but also reduces your carbon footprint.

• Eco-Friendly Products: Opt for biodegradable and eco-friendly products to minimize your environmental impact.

To make your packing process even easier, we've created a downloadable and printable checklist that you can take with you. Click here to download your checklist now and ensure you have all the essentials for your Puerto Rican adventure!

What are you most excited to experience in Puerto Rico? Let us know in the comments below!