Puerto Rico Packing List (23 Things People Forget to Bring)

If you feel uneasy about drinking tap water in Puerto Rico, then I recommend bringing a water filtration container instead of spending your money on water bottles. The Grayl GeoPress water purifier bottlecan decontaminate up to 24 oz of water. It`s rather effortless to operate and you have the ability to replenish your water from practically anyplace — making it the ideal reusable water container.

Snorkeling Gear

If you’re an experienced snorkeler and are looking forward to exploring the waters of Puerto Rico by observing the marine life beneath the surface, then you should definitely bring your own snorkeling equipment. There are locations where snorkeling gear can be rented, but it will likely be more expensive. The SwimStar snorkel set can accommodate any facial structure and features a single crystal at the front to prevent fogging.

👉 If you enjoy snorkeling, Check out other notable experiences available in Puerto Rico.

Power Bank

Following the power outages and shortages after Hurricane Maria in 2017, you should consider bringing a portable charger on your Puerto Rico packing list. The Anker portable charger is compact and quickly powers your electronics. In truth, this small power bank can charge your phone up to 3 times.

Quick Dry Towel

A quick-dry towel is essential in your Puerto Rico packing list, since not every hotel or apartment offers a beach towel. The Rainleaf microfiber towelwon’t take up much space in your bag, is capable of absorbing liquids well, and it dries rapidly so repacking it won`t be an issue.

Honestly, it is an essential item to bring along for any seaside trip, whether you are packing for Mexico, Puerto Rico, or some other location with a shoreline.

Travel Backpack

Dragging a large, uncomfortable suitcase around Puerto Rico isn’t very enjoyable. Choosing to bring a backpack will be less bothersome on the streets of Old San Juan and beachy towns.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets the size limits necessary for carrying on flights, yet it can still accommodate your complete packing list for a weeklong trip. It includes a back support system to distribute the weight evenly, a padded rear section with a laptop pocket, and a front pocket for easily accessible items.

Day Bag

If you’re going somewhere for the day and don’t want to transport your whole backpack or suitcase, then this item is ideal. The Osprey Daylite collapses into a compact size so you can carry it in your baggage until you`re prepared to use it for an outing. Not only is it ergonomic, but it`s also resistant to the damp climate of Puerto Rico.

Eco-Friendly Sunblock

It`s widely acknowledged that sunscreen helps shield the skin from UV rays, yet not all brands are produced equally. Some may not be environmentally friendly or contain chemicals hazardous to marine life. The Sun Bumlotion is a great option as it delivers SPF 50 protection along with being reef accommodating.

Aloe Vera Gel

It’s a minor detail, but neglecting to bring your own could mean paying overpriced prices for aloe at a hotel shop instead of being prepared.

This Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel is among the most concentrated aloe products on the market. It`s ideal for sealing moisture into your skin and comes in an airplane-approved size.

LED Headlamp

From caves to forests and the bioluminescent beaches, if you plan on exploring Puerto Rico by night, then you’re going to want a hands-free light to see your path.

The Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp is considered the ideal solution. It is weather-resistant, has multiple lighting options available, and comes in a variety of fun colors.

Waterproof Bag

Your travel kit when you visit Puerto Rico`s rivers, waterfalls, or beaches should incorporate a waterproof container to keep extra garments and electronics secure even when submerged. The Heeta waterproof bag is fabricated from a water resistant material utilizing seamless technology. It also includes a complimentary waterproof phone case.

Waterproof Phone Case

If you’re visiting the bioluminescent lagoons, beaches, or rivers with glowing waters in Puerto Rico, then a water-resistant phone case is worth having. This Pelican waterproof pouch keeps your phone safe and dry with a clear section allowing use and photos if needed.

Tablet

If you don’t want to transport your laptop but want something more than your phone to entertain you on your trip, then opt for a Tablet.

The Apple iPad Mini Tablet is an outstanding product and will synchronize to your other apple devices. It features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina presentation, a 12MP Wide rear camera, a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera, and has up to 256GB storage capacity. Oh, and it comes in four fun colors to suit your personality!

👉 Accessible Version of this Checklist is Here

Hand Sanitizer

This portable hand sanitizer container includes a secure harness fastener allowing attachment to a backpack or clothing. The style allows convenient refilling of the bottle.

Wrinkle Release Spray

Linen and cotton are great lightweight clothing selections for Puerto Rico’s warm weather. But as anyone who has stuffed these fabrics in a suitcase knows, they tend to wrinkle quite easily.

The compressed steam product is the prime solution. Besides removing creases, it additionally gets rid of static electricity. Plus, they are compact and will provide musty scented clothes a refreshing, clean aroma.

Leave-In Hair Conditioner

In addition to caring for your skin, you should also look after your hair when visiting Puerto Rico, particularly if planning to spend days at the beach. The Moroccanoil leave-in is travel sized and superb for hydrating hair and detangling it following a day of sunlight, breeze, and saltwater.

Travel Umbrella

Puerto Rico experiences a wet season from June to November characterized by common evening showers that are brief. Possessing a quality traveling umbrella will save you from getting soaked. This umbrella is practically the size of your palm, but it’s windproof and has a 50 SPF to protect you from UV rays.

Headphones

If you’re lodging in San Juan, then you’ll detect nights are quite loud. Noise-suppressing headphones are awesome to retain unwanted noises out. These JBL headphones function up to 50 hours on a single charge, are noise-suppressing, and employ a voice assistant to tell you about the battery status.

Motion Sickness Medicine

If you’re considering taking a catamaran to Icacos or the ferry to the islands of Vieques and Culebra, then you’ll want to have medication ready to prevent motion sickness. Dramamine is an excellent remedy that prevents nausea and won’t cause drowsiness.

First Aid Kit

You may come across situations while hiking or at the beach where first aid is needed, and a small kit can be handy. This compact first aid kit is housed in a waterproof rigid container that can be placed in your bag or suitcase for your trip.

Portable Action Camera

For your trip to Puerto Rico, you’ll want to incorporate in your packing list a camera that can record your cherished memories. The GoPro HERO 10 is a top favorite action camera because it can record 5.3k60 Ultra HD video and take 23mpx photos on the shore, underwater, and while zip lining.

Even though some people worry if hostels are safe, the truth is that they’re truly the best solution for many types of travelers. But, if it’s not what you’re looking for, it can be a nightmare.

Mosquito Repellent

Puerto Rico is a tropical island known for mosquitoes. If insect bites bother you or you aren`t accustomed to them, adding insect repellent to your packing list is wise. The OFF Deep Woods repellent leaves no oily residue on skin yet repels mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies.

Packing Cubes

For your Puerto Rico trip, you’ll want to keep your possessions as organized as possible. This remarkable set of packing containers separates and categorizes your materials with receptacles for your footwear, undergarments, and clothing. It even brings a toiletries bag and a string bag perfect for your dirty laundry.

Travel Insurance

When planning your trip to Puerto Rico, take into account if travel insurance makes sense based on your specific situation. Besides the possibilities of injuring yourself enjoying adventures like hiking in El Yunque, Puerto Rico also experiences a tropical storm period that could alter your vacation plans at the last minute.

You can effortlessly analyze many price quotes within minutes using the handy VisitorsCoverage website.

Other Puerto Rico Essentials to Pack

• Eye mask
• Toothbrush
• Facemasks
• Face sunscreen
• Vaccination card and card protector
• Passport, if you aren’t coming from the USA (see my guide to Puerto Rico passport entry rules)
• Driver’s license or Photo ID
• Proof of insurance coverage if you’re renting a motor vehicle
• Cash – US Dollar
• Sunglasses
• Prescribed medicines

Clothing to Pack for Puerto Rico

Rain gear will be unnecessary in Puerto Rico, even during their winter months. The island experiences warm conditions year-round, so clothing will involve lightweight and breathable fabrics.

What type of clothing should you pack? Here is a quick list of recommended apparel for Puerto Rico:

• 3

denim shorts

• • 3-4 clothing items

Fernandina Beach is within an hour`s drive of Jacksonville and an hour and a half from St. Augustine. It is one of the three main communities on Amelia Island. Along with the remainder of the island, Fernandina Beach provides multiple high-end waterfront hotels to lodge in when touring the locality.

• • 1-3 swimsuits
  • 1 Light beach cover
  • 1 light weather-resistant top layer
  • 1 pair of pants
  • 1-2 The first option features one or two casual pieces of clothing to wear.

One essential thing to bear in mind when traveling to Mexico is that some popular spots – particularly places inside like Mexico City and Oaxaca – lie at elevated heights and can get surprisingly chilly during winter, particularly at night.

• 7-9 sets of undergarments
• Between 5 to 7 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of sandals
• A single outdoor footwear option such as a pair of athletic shoes or hiking footwear
• 1 The first choice is a single pair of shoes for use near water
• 1 head covering

That’s my general Puerto Rico packing list. For more specific clothing advice, see my full guide to what to don in Puerto Rico.

Now, let’s examine some specific clothing items you’ll need for your tropical vacation.

Beach Cover Up

Unlike other locations, people in Puerto Rico do not wear swimwear in stores or malls.Therefore, a lightweight breathable cotton cover like this one is useful to don quickly.

📚 Related topic: Top Puerto Rico Beaches

Water Shoes

• Top Luxury Hotels: Bissau Palace • Raj Palace

The Water Lves water shoes offer a rubber sole that provides arch support and is thick enough to protect your feet but light enough to dry quickly.

Sun Hat

To prevent skin damage from sun exposure, you’ll want to utilize extra protection besides sunscreen. The Columbia sun hat blocks out both UVA and UVB rays, and it sports an adjustable drawstring to keep it in position during your windy beach day trips.

Money Belt

Taking of possessions without approval is one of the most frequent criminal offenses in Puerto Rico. But you can transport your cards safely and shield them from thieves and identity theft with this RFID-protected money case. It will accommodate your passport in a breathable and discreet compartment. Check out my Puerto Rico security guide to gain more knowledge.

Rain Jacket

If planning to hike El Yunque during the wet season, then including a lightweight rain jacket in the luggage would be wise. These Baleaf raincoats are excellent for menand women with watertight material, a warm interior layer, a rear pocket, and adjustable fastenings to produce the best fit for the jacket.

Hiking Boots

Puerto Rico offers striking tracks through nature that any lover of the outdoors will enjoy discovering. Your regular walking shoes may not take you far, so you should opt for a durable pair of hiking boots. The Columbia hiking boots are water-resistant and lightweight perfect both for males and .

See our comprehensive guide to packing for hiking trips if you enjoy outdoor adventures.

👉 Accessible Version of this Checklist is Here

Puerto Rico Packing Tips

Pack Light

You won’t need winter garments when you pack for Puerto Rico. And since you’ll be allocating a lot of your time on Puerto Rico’s beautiful beaches, you really don’t need to overload your baggage. Instead, just bring a few swimsuits, light clothes, toiletries, and essential travel accessories.

Consider What You’ll Be Doing

If planning to attend conventions, dine at restaurants, visit clubs, and Puerto Rico`s museums, the bag will differ from that of a beach lover. Consider dress codes for restaurants, shopping malls, and museums – they mandate attire unlike wandering Old San Juan or going to the beach.

🧳 Next up: Colorado packing recommendations

Choose a Backpack

It`s very inconvenient to see visitors moving their bags through the steep streets of Old San Juan. If you`re only visiting for a few days and won`t be going to any particular activities, then a well-designed travel backpack is more functional than a suitcase for your trip and it will hold all that you`ll wear in Puerto Rico.

Do Laundry for Longer Periods

If visiting Puerto Rico for only a brief weekend getaway, laundry may not pose an issue. However, stays exceeding a fortnight could benefit from lodgings with washing machines, local laundromat use, or hotel laundry services. Being able to clean and reuse clothing is extremely valuable on more protracted trips.

A Scrubba Transportable Wash Bag is a nifty approach to clean clothes without a washing machine.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Puerto Rico’s weather is quite warm all year, but June to November is the rainy season and your vacation will frequently be interrupted by showers. You can bring a light rain jacket if you’re spending time in El Yunque or hiking in the mountainous interior areas. You can also bring a light jacket during the winter months if you get cold easily.

👉 For additional guidance, check out my guide to the ideal time period to go to Puerto Rico for optimal weather and fewer crowds.

FAQs About Packing for Puerto Rico

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🖨️ Obtain a printable version of this checklist

That`s it for our ultimate packing list for Puerto Rico! Keep in mind you can also get the printed version here.

Thanks for reading my packing list for Puerto Rico! Whether you’re visiting the rainforest named El Yunque, the historically noteworthy cities, or the beaches with sand, your packing list will probably encompass similar items. Keep strategizing with my guide to the primary activities possible on the island.