So you’re getting ready for a sun-soaked vacation in the Dominican Republic. You’re ready for rest, relaxation, and a seriously good time. But first comes the hard part: deciding what to pack. While getting ready for your all-inclusive Punta Cana trip, you don’t want to have to stress on what to bring and what to leave behind. Luckily, we’ve got you covered: here’s what you need to know about packing for your trip to the Dominican Republic to ensure you have an unforgettable vacation.
Keep It Light
Caribbean weather is tropical, so be prepared to keep your wardrobe light. You want to feel cool, comfortable, and relaxed as you enjoy the sensational warm days and balmy nights. Avoid heavy jeans, jackets, and other cold weather apparel — there’s simply no need for it with this climate. Aim for linen and breezy, flowing clothes. Bring a sturdy pair of sneakers if you want to go exploring, but sandals (or some fun heels) should suit most occasions. Go for an authentic Caribbean style; cut loose and explore floral patterns, relaxed looks, and fashion choices that combine comfort and class. And remember to bring at least one fancier outfit for when you decide to get a firsthand look at the Dominican Republic’s popular nightlife scene.
The Bare Necessities
Focus on the priorities: pack any necessary medications (and bring extra if you have them). Make sure you have all your travel papers and passport in a secure spot you can get to easily; this will make traveling far more relaxed and way more fun. Be sure to leave plenty of room in your bag for souvenirs; the Dominican Republic has tons of great local shops and gorgeous boutiques that you’ll want to spend quality time exploring.
Snap A Photo
The Dominican Republic is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and you’re going to want to take a ton of photos to remember it by. A lot of phones have solid cameras (which are perfect for the ideal Instagram), which can cover most of your photographic adventures. But if you want to indulge in some underwater images while snorkeling, it’s worth it to splurge on a waterproof camera.
Fun in the Sun
The Dominican Republic is a tropical spot, so be sure to pack all the things you need for warm weather fun! Bring goggles or a snorkel mask for exploring the ocean waves. Make sure to load up on sunscreen so you come home with that perfect tan (and remember to reapply regularly). Grab a bag to store your wet swimsuit and swimming gear after you’ve spent the day swimming in the reefs. This is the perfect weather to show off your awesome hat collection, so bring along a baseball cap (or, if you’re feeling fancy, a big floppy sun hat). And remember to pack your sunglasses, so you’ll be sure to look cool no matter how hot it might get.
Water, Water Everywhere
There are a ton of water-based activities in the Dominican Republic. From scuba diving to surfing, there’s something for everyone. If you plan on diving in during your vacation, bring along a bunch of water-friendly gear. Water shoes are a fabulous investment, particularly if you intend on wading in the stunning oceans or exploring the coral reefs. You’ll be able to use them for all sorts of fun adventures (and look good at the same time).
Backpacking It
If you have room in your suitcase, squeeze in a backpack or crossbody bag. It’s the easiest way to carry around your necessities, and keep them with you on your travels. You’ll keep your hands free and not have to stress about misplacing anything, and you’ll have extra room to stock up on local snacks. There are plenty of culinary treats to sample, and all that exploring would make anyone hungry! If you have an all-day adventure away from your hotel, you can stash a change of clothes in a backpack; that way you can switch from casual daywear to a more polished night look without missing a beat. And you’ll appreciate an extra bag when you’re carting home gifts for family and friends.
