Things I Wish I Would Have Brought with Me on My Trip to Jamaica
I recently returned from a quick getaway to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, for my sister’s wedding! Jamaica is beautiful, and its people are some of the friendliest I’ve encountered in my travels. Not only was this my first trip to the Caribbean, but it was also my first time staying at an all-inclusive resort. Overall, I did a great job packing the items I needed, but there were a few things that I wish I had brought with me. Here’s a packing list of things you need specific to a trip to Jamaica:
Packing List (What I got right!)
Clothing Items
Swim Shoes
This was the most prized item I bought on my trip. I used my swim shows at the Dunn River Falls and when I went Horseback riding through a forest and on the beach. I bought the Aleader Women’s Quick Drying Aqua shoes from Amazon, which were super comfortable. If you don’t bring your own, you will have plenty of opportunities to purchase them while in Jamaica. Most of the excursion places rent or sell swim shoes.
Swimsuits & Cover-ups
I anticipated spending most of my time doing water-related activities. I brought a couple of swimsuits and cover-up options for the beach, pool, and excursions.
Wide Brim Hat/ Sunglasses
Ya’ll, I gave this weather report some serious side-eye when I saw it. But then I spoke to a few friends who said it’s typical of Caribbean weather to have a shower or two during one part of the day but sunshine most of the day. Luckily, during my trip, we didn’t have any rain! The sun was quite brutal. I’m glad I had a wide-brim hat and sunglasses!
Toiletries
Beach Bag
This was a clutch item as it held all of my essential items.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin!
Aloe Vera Gel
If you didn’t protect your skin enough, organic aloe vera gel is great for sunburn relief.
Insect Repellent
I didn’t use insect repellent when I was at the resort. I used it mainly during excursions.
Packing List (What I wish I had brought!)
A mix of American & Jamaican Money
When I arrived in Jamaica, I decided to wait until I was at the resort to take out money. I was told there were no ATMs when I got to the resort. I took a taxi to an ATM and got Jamaican dollars (JMD). Soon after, I realized that shop vendors would rather work with American Dollars. All of the prices they give you tend to be in American currency. One woman even said to me, “Why didn’t you bring American money?” in my head, I’m thinking, “Because I’m in Jamaica”. This was probably because I mostly visited touristy places. But, I think it’s essential to have a mix of both currencies because when you go away from tourist areas, JMD is used. Also, bring small USD to make tipping easier.
Go-Pro (or a better waterproof case)
This trip made me realize I need to upgrade my photography gear! Since I knew there would be a lot of water activities, I bought a waterproof case, but I misplaced the necklace lanyard that goes with it, making it less functional. During excursions, I relied on my tour guides to take pictures. But some photos I took with the waterproof case came out blurry. I have several friends with Go-Pro Heros, and they don’t have these issues. As someone who cherishes both living in the moment and capturing it, I realized having a waterproof, durable, and wearable camera like the Go-Pro Hero is definitely needed.
Waterproof bag
During my trip, I also realized that having a dry bag to protect my items during excursions would have been helpful.
Packing List (Things you don’t need!)
Power Converter
If traveling from the U.S., don’t worry about bringing a power converter. Jamaica uses the same plugs and sockets as the U.S.
Beach Towels
If you are staying at a resort, you will have plenty of beach towels to use throughout your stay.
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