Are you planning a tropical vacation and want to pack light? Fear not–it can be done! Instead of dragging bulky luggage around through the airport, get creative and pack all of your stuff into a backpack instead.
A few years ago I traveled to Costa Rica with a very practical and totally cute Dakine backpack similar to this one:
Photo credit: Polyvore
There’s something liberating about having a hands-free form of luggage strapped to your back. The Dakine straps around the waist and chest, taking some of the weight and burden off your back. There’s a handy water bottle holder on the side of the pack. Plus, you don’t have to check bags and pay fees, you can just carry it on.
We tend to pack twice as much as we really need, so here are five suggestions on paring down on clothing and a few necessities to bring with you on your next tropical vacation.
Swimming Suits
You probably want to bring a different bikini for every day of the week you’re gone, but do you really need to? Probably not. Cut down to just three and roll them up tight. Take advantage of Victoria’s Secret’s Semi-Annual Sale if you are in the market for new swimsuits. It’s probably the one article of clothing that is the smallest and most packable. If you’re going snorkeling or surfing you might want to bring a one-piece suit, too.
Flip flops
Wear them on the plane or slide them into the backpack because they don’t take up much room. It’s the one item you will want to have on the beach or for going out. Rainbow Sandals are super stylish and comfortable. Look how cute these are!
Image, Rainbow Sandals/Hansen Surf
Quick Drying Clothes
Bringing quick-drying synthetic clothes (shirts, shorts, pants, a rain jacket) doesn’t preclude you from stuffing in your favorite cotton sundresses, sarongs and maxi dresses. If you plan to do any physical activities like ziplining or jogging on the beach, you’ll want clothes that are comfortable and dry easily. Places like Costa Rica are humid and cotton clothes don’t dry as quickly as they do in the desert.
Bag of Liquids
All of your liquids and creams should fit into a 1 quart-sized, resealable bag, according to TSA rules. The containers of toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, Neosporin, sunscreen, etc. cannot be more than 3.4 ounces. Have your plastic bag in hand and ready at the security checkpoint. Only bring your favorite stuff, because some things you can buy when you get to your destination.
Speaking of safety, make sure before you leave that your medical insurance plan extends to your destination. If not, then it’s advisable to purchase travel medical insurance to cover any health care costs that could pop up on our trip. It’s also advised to carry your medical insurance documents. Thinking your primary health insurance covers you, only to find that doesn’t mid-trip, is a mistake you don’t want to make. When choosing a medical travel insurance plan, be sure to take the extra steps to ensure you’re covered.
You probably won’t be able to get away with just flips flops for the entire trip. Even though they are bulky, pack a pair of sneakers or even hiking boots, depending on your planned activities. Don’t forget a few pairs of thin socks. It wouldn’t be very comfortable to hike, run or walk without them and you could form blisters. No fun.
Image, REI Garage
While this isn’t an extensive list of items to pack, it’s a good place to start and get you thinking about the must-haves for your tropical trip. Make a list and test out whether you can fit it all in. You might be surprised at how much you can stuff into a backpack.
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