Sunny days are finally here! You’ve booked your all-inclusive resort vacation, and soon, you’ll be lounging on white sandy beaches, cocktail in hand, with the gentle sound of waves in the background. The perfect way to escape a (too) long winter! The best way to warm up in the middle of a (too) long winter. Alone, as a duo or with the family! But before you fly off to paradise, there’s one crucial step: pack your suitcase without forgetting anything—or overloading it so much that you have to negotiate with the airport scale. To make sure you enjoy your trip stress-free, you need to carefully consider what to bring. Here’s the ultimate all-inclusive packing list, whether you’re heading to an all-inclusive resort in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, or another tropical gem.
Friendly reminder: Baggage fees can add up quickly, so be sure to check your airline’s weight and size restrictions before you head to the airport. No one wants to deal with an extra cost before starting their vacation!
Caribbean vacation: what to bring for a week at an all-inclusive resort 🌞
It’s the main reason for your trip, so it’s best to be well-prepared for sunbathing, swimming, and sipping mojitos. At an all-inclusive resort, you’ll alternate between the beach, restaurants, and maybe a few excursions. The goal of this “fun in the sun” packing list is to stay comfortable while still having a few outfits for special occasions.
- Swimsuits (2 to 3) – No need to wait for one to dry before jumping back in the water. And slipping into a wet swimsuit isn’t exactly peak comfort.
- Sarong or light shorts – Makes it easy to go from lounging on a chair to the buffet.
- Sunglasses – Ideally polarized, to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare on the water.
- Hat or cap – To avoid the bright red “oops, I forgot sunscreen” look from day one.
- Waterproof sunscreen – SPF 30 or higher, plus lip balm with SPF.Friendly reminder: If you’re planning to dive near a reef, consider using mineral sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which is much less harmful to fragile ecosystems.
- A warm sweater or light jacket – Some beachfront destinations can get chilly at night.
- One or two dressier outfits – Depending on your hotel, this could be useful if you plan to dine at an upscale restaurant on-site.
- A pair of sporty and dressy shoes, plus sandals –You’ll have the right footwear whether you’re going on an excursion, to the beach, or to your all-inclusive resort’s fancy restaurant.
Toiletries & first aid
Aside from basics like toothpaste and shampoo, it’s a good idea to add these items to your all-inclusive packing list in case you run into issues at your destination. Keep in mind that most all-inclusive resorts provide shampoo and conditioner in the room, which can free up space in your suitcase.
- Moisturizing body cream or after-sun lotion with aloe vera – The sun, sea, and chlorinated pools can dry out your skin. And if you overdoit on the sunbathing front, your body will appreciate a good dose skin care in the form of aloe.
- Bug spray – Very useful for forest excursions. Avoid coming back with more mosquito bites than memories!
- Basic medications – Acetaminophen, antihistamines, antibiotic ointment, anti-nausea dimenhydrinate, and anti-diarrhea medication (you never know!).
- Mini first aid kit – Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and other essentials.
- Prescription medications – Bring enough for your entire stay (plus a little extra for peace of mind).
Pro tip: Make sure you have these important things in your carry-on in case your suitcase is lost or delayed getting to your all-inclusive resort: a change of clothes, swimsuit, sunglasses, and essential first-aid items (such as contact lenses).
Gadgets and practical accessories for your trip
- Beach bag and shoulder bag – Convenient for carrying essentials to the beach and on fun excursions outside your all-inclusive resort.
- Reusable water bottle – Many hotels now have purified water stations to reduce plastic waste. Smart!
- Plug adapter – Check in advance if your destination uses the same type of plug as at home.
- Portable charger – Perfect for keeping your phone charged during off-property adventures.
- Waterproof phone case – It takes up virtually no space and can come in handy on seaside excursions or even in the pool!
What about the kids or the baby? Our list of family beach vacation essentials.
Wondering what to pack to keep children busy at hotels is a common question. This packing list will help you be well-prepared to avoid meltdowns (and maximize relaxation). Keep in mind that many all-inclusive resorts have kids’ clubs where younger guests can enjoy supervised activities created specifically for them and make new friends!
- Beach toys (bucket, shovel, sand moulds) – Because a sandcastle is always a good idea. There are even collapsible options to make packing even easier.
- Floaties or armbands – Even if there’s a wading pool, a little extra safety never hurts.
- Snacks – Buffets offer a lot of variety, but having familiar snacks on hand can prevent cranky moments.
- Books and activity books – Perfect for keeping kids occupied on the plane or during meals.
- Headphones and a tablet loaded with cartoons and educational games – A lifesaver for waiting times or impromptu naps. Hey, it’s the holidays: rules can be loosened up a bit! Especially in the leisurely context of an all-inclusive resort.
- A favorite stuffed animal or comfort item – Nothing worse than realizing at the airport that their favorite teddy bear got left behind!
What to pack for a 7-day all inclusive resort vacation? These little things can make all the difference!
Make sure to add these items to your all-inclusive packing list. They don’t take up much space but can be incredibly useful. You’ll thank us later!
- Pouch for important documents – Keep your ID, passport, and other travel documents in your carry-on.
- Plastic or fabric bags – To separate clean and dirty clothes in your suitcase.
- Clothes pegs – Perfect for drying your swimsuit on the balcony (hopefully with an oceanfront view!)without it flying away.
- Instant camera – Capture spontaneous all-inclusive resort vacation memories to relive daily after you return home. Just be careful not to send them through airport X-ray scanners!
- Portable board games – Even if you booked an all-inclusive package as a couple or with friends, a deck of cards, mini Scrabble, or dice games can be a great way to unwind. Especially with a cocktail in hand!
- Small bills ($1 and $5 USD) – Useful for tipping, as not all inclusive packages include gratuities. Leave a tip for the bartender, tour guide or housekeeping staff. Pro tip: Leave some money each time your room is cleaned, not just at the end of your stay, as it may not always be the same person who does the cleaning.
Now that you’re ready to pack your suitcase, all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy every moment of your all-inclusive resort vacation. Have a fantastic time in the Caribbean! 🌴🍹😎
