Packing for a trip to Jamaica does not have to be a stressful or long process. However, this will depend on if you choose to relax on the beach or pack many adventures into your stay. For us, when we visit Jamaica we want to our trip to be nothing but relaxation and romance. During our first visit to Jamaica, our luggage exceeded what we needed for the trip. When we go on our next trip to Jamaica in April 2025, we will take one carry-on, one personal item, and a large suitcase to share. While our trips to Jamaica are low key, below are my packing for Jamaica ideas for both adventures and relaxation.
Packing For Relaxation In Jamaica
When packing for relaxation in Jamaica there are only a few things you will need. Of course, this list will also depend on the resort you visit and their requirements. Many resorts are all inclusive, so you won’t need much if your only plans are to lay on the beach. However, like I mention in my post about Romance and Relaxation at Couples Negril, dinner attire is recommended.
Packing List To Be A Beach Bum In Jamaica
The one good thing about Jamaica is there are a number of resorts that are specifically adults only. So if you are looking for a place to get away from essentially all responsibility, then Jamaica is the perfect spot. The beaches are calm, the atmosphere is relaxing, and you literally have zero responsibilities if you choose. If you plan to do nothing but be a potato the whole time, then you can get by with far less. Here is my recommended packing list for a quiet week (7-days) in Jamaica:
- Bathing suit (One is enough but up to two or three)
- Beach shoes (flip flops, Crocs, etc.)
- Razors and shave cream
- Insulated cup/bottle (If you want your drinks to stay cold while sitting on the beach)
- Cover-up for the ladies
- 3-4 pairs of shorts
- 3-4 t-shirts
- 2-3 pairs of socks
- 3-4 sets of underwear/bras (Seriously, do you need a pair for everyday if you’re on the beach or pool?)
- Two nice summer outfits for onsite restaurants (read the resorts dress code)
- Essential toiletries (resort has basic shower products and hair dryer)
- Toothpaste and brush
- Hair brush and ponytail holders (for whoever needs them)
- Deodorant
- Special hair and skin products (depends on personal preference)
- Cologne or perfume
- Feminine products, as needed
- Medications (prescription or OTC) Recommended Pill Container
- TSA Approved Bottles
- Personal beach towel (resorts provide towels on the beach, but they are not large towels)
- Personal electronics and chargers
- GoPro or similar video camera (Optional)
- Up to $200 USD for tips and purchases
- Passport
- Driver License
- Visa Paperwork, if needed
This list is determined by what you intend to do, so it’s not all inclusive or for some it may be too much. For our first trip to Jamaica we went overboard and packed too much. The next trip and all subsequent trips will be much lighter. You should be able to get everything in a carry-on and personal bag.
Resorts With Au Naturel Options
While Jamaican laws generally prohibit nudity in public spaces, some resorts offer this as an option. I know this is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it is surprising how many people partake in this. Additionally, Jamaica is the largest island for going topless in the Caribbean, so I would be remiss to not give an honorable mention of this. If this is your jam, then here is how I pack for such vacations. If you’ve never tried it, then you should do it at least once in your life.
- Cover up – This can be a robe, moo-moo, or similar just to get to the beach
- Beach shoes (flip flops, Crocs, etc)
- Razors and shave cream
- Insulated cup(s)
- 3 outfits (One there, one back, and a spare)
- 1 Dinner appropriate outfit (check resort dress code rules)
- 4 sets of underwear/bra (if you wear/need them)
- Essential toiletries (resort has basic shower products and hair dryer)
- Personal beach towel (resorts provide towels on the beach, but they are not large towels)
- Personal electronics and chargers
- GoPro or similar video camera (Optional)
- Up to $200 USD for tips and purchases
- Passport
- Driver License
- Visa Paperwork, if needed
This is the complete minimalist list for a fully relaxing Au Naturel (nude) vacation. All you really need is an outfit there, back, a spare, and one for dinner. You just need something to cover up with until you get to the Au Naturel space(s).
Packing List For Adventures In Jamaica
While Jamaica and other Caribbean Islands are typically associated with rest and relaxation, there are many adventures too. If adventure is your choice for Jamaica, then you will need to pack a bit extra with extra suitcases. Let’s add to our packing list from above.
- Bathing suit(s)
- Beach shoes (flip flops, Crocs, etc.)
- Sneakers or similar close toed shoes
- Hiking boots (Optional and depends on your adventure)
- Insulated cup/bottle (If you want your drinks to stay cold while sitting on the beach)
- Cover-up for the ladies
- 5-6 pairs of beach shorts
- 1-2 pairs of cargo shorts
- 7-8 t-shirts
- 7-8 pairs of socks
- 7-8 sets of underwear/bras
- 2-3 nice summer outfits for onsite restaurants (read the resorts dress code)
- Essential toiletries (resort has basic shower products and hair dryer)
- Toothpaste and brush
- Hair brush and ponytail holders (for whoever needs them)
- Deodorant
- Razors and shave cream
- Special hair and skin products (depends on personal preference)
- Cologne or perfume
- Feminine products, as needed
- Medications (prescription or OTC)
- Personal beach towel (resorts provide towels on the beach, but they are not large towels)
- Personal electronics and chargers
- GoPro or similar video camera (Essential if you want to capture it for a lifetime)
- Up to $500 USD for tips and purchases
- Passport
- Driver License
- Visa Paperwork, if needed
Downloadable Adventure Packing List
This list focuses on you going on adventures up to 4-5 days outside of the resort. So what you actually pack may vary slightly from this to ensure you’re well equipped. We’ll explore all the adventures in another post.
Final Thoughts
Going to Jamaica is one of the most relaxing vacations you can take. The island vibe and culture means so much more when you visit. Being able to interact and talk to the locals helps you understand how nice and welcoming everyone is. The Jamaican Island truly is your home away from home and they want you to feel like you are always Home. We go to Jamaica to escape, so relaxation is our primary goal. However, there are adventures that await you on the island and out in the Caribbean.
Regardless of you plans when visiting, you will certainly enjoy yourselves with all the island has to offer. Oh, before I forget, please remember to fill out the C5 Customs Form prior to your arrival. You can find it online here for a quick entrance into the country. Can’t wait to see you in Jamaican mon!! We’re going back in April 2025, but this time going to Couples San Souci and their famous Sunset Beach. Be sure to subscribe so you get the latest articles when their posted!
