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Packing for that Island Vacation: Top 10 Things to Remember

By: Jes Engle

 To make the most out of your tropical island vacation, use this list to guide you through your pre-vacation preparation.  The list consists of 7 items you should not forget to pack, and 3 general suggestions to help you make the most out of your next island getaway.  

1.  Passport - Although some islands do not require current passports for entry, it is important that your passport is not expired and will not until well after your vacation is complete.  This allows for easier entry back into your home country, and is important in the case of an emergency.  

2.  Cash - Even though most major retail locations and restaurants accept credit cards, it is important to always bring a small amount of cash.  Cash will be needed for things such as taxis, small purchases, and gratuities.  

3.  Sun Protection - The last thing anyone wants on their vacation is to look like a giant red tomato, and feel like a ball of fire.  Even on cloudy days, burns from the sun can appear in a matter of minutes -- especially when you are on or near the water.  Although sun block is typically available on the islands, the exact type, brand or SPF you prefer, may not be.  

4.  Sunglasses - Not everyone wears sunglasses when they are at home, but on the islands they are a necessity.  The sun is brighter and more intense in the South.  When out on the water, the glare from the sun reflecting off of the water makes it even harder to see without sunglasses or a hat.  

5.  Sandals - There is nothing worse than trying to hike through the sand with socks and shoes.  Even if you are just walking on the streets through town, sand still tends to end up in your footwear.  Sandals or flip flops are a must.  Not only do they keep your feet cool and free from piles of sand, they are fast and easy to slip on and off.  

6.  Digital Camera - Although any camera is better than none, a digital camera lets you take hundreds, even thousands of pictures.  You never know what you will see when you are on the water or just walking around the island, so it is important to always have your camera with you.  The best part of a digital camera is that you can take many pictures at once and not waste film.  You never know which picture will turn out, as sometimes the sun is too bright, or the wind is too strong.  Having a digital camera allows you the flexibility and opportunity to capture the perfect shot.  

7.  Reading Material - Whether you enjoy reading novels, or just flipping through a magazine, it is crucial to bring some sort of reading material.  Enjoying the sun and surf can be very tiring, so it is nice to have the option to just sit around and relax with a good book.  It is also handy if the power goes out and there is no stereo to listen to, or television to watch.  

8.  Pack Light - People often overpack when they go on an island vacation.  Most time will be spent in a swimsuit, shorts and t-shirt, making much more clothing unnecessary.  Although, keep in mind, appropriate clothing may be necessary at some of the nicer restaurants.  Also, on smaller islands, baggage security is in the form of a manual search performed by officials.  There is nothing worse than having several over-packed pieces of luggage dug through and inspected piece by piece.  Packing light will generally make airport experiences quicker and smoother for you and other travelers.  

9.  Carry-On Luggage - Along with island travel, small air carriers, and limited flights comes lost or delayed luggage.  Often, if there is too much luggage for a particular flight, or if the flight schedules are backed up, luggage will get left behind.  Because of this, it is always smart to pack an extra pair of clothing and a swimsuit in your carry on, that way you can start your vacation immediately, even if your luggage does not make it there with you.  

10.  Patience - Island life is much more laid back than life on the mainland.  The general pace of things is slow, and the mentality is very “go with the flow”.  Do not waste your vacation being frustrated with the island way of life.  Relax and enjoy your vacation.  

If you keep these 10 things in mind, you will be sure to make the most out of any island vacation.