Packing for a Tropical Vacation

Packing is always a little bit of a challenge. Especially when you are limited to the number of bags you can bring. Here is a guide of what to bring when visiting a tropical beach location and staying at a resort for 7 nights. Of course, this is just a guide, you will want to adjust to your particular needs.


Dresses:
Bring dresses. You will be in warm weather and chances are your resort will have some nice restaurants. Choose dresses that are light! I suggest a mix of casual and dressy. The casual ones will be great to throw on for lunch and for exploring the nearby areas. I think 4 casual and 2 dressy should be enough for the trip.

Mandarin-Print Mini Dress - $19.80 Forever 21
Naples Dress in Silk - $65 Lulus


Shoes:
This is the hardest part of packing. Shoes. How many? What colors? They are bulky and take up too much room! You only need 3 or 4 pairs. Buy a neutral color heel. Plan your dresses so they will match with this neutral color heel. Flip Flops! Pack a pair that will work for both the beach and for exploring the resort and area. If you decide to bring two pairs, make sure one is neutral so it will go with any outfit. And last, you need a good pair of sneakers. And don’t forget a couple of pairs of ankle socks! These are for those who want to explore the area and may do some adventure excursions or a lot of walking.


Massimo Inger Pleated Dress Shoe - $16.08 Target
Jessica Simpson Dinara Flip Flop – $13.99 Macy’s



Ryka Moira - $69.99 Lady Footlocker



Shirts:
You will be in warm weather. You don’t need any big bulky tops! I think bringing 4-5 tops is a good idea. You won’t need them that much. Chances are you will be in a bathing suit most of the time anyway!


Long Layering Tank - $8.50 Old Navy
Pleated Trim Top - $12.50 Old Navy


Sweaters: I think it is a good idea to bring 1 sweater. There might be some hard AC pumping when you visit certain places. Choose a neutral color. Ivory or cream is probably best!

Dropped Shoulder Cardigan - $59.50 Ann Taylor Loft

Bathing Suits:I suggest bringing 5 bathing suits. Choose 1 or 2 that are a one-piece for those who plan to participate in water activities. And then roll up those bikinis and stuff them in the suitcase. You will wear these a lot and they are so small and easy to pack!

Twist Front Tank One Piece - $44.99 JCPenny

Bikini - $34 Victoria’s Secret (price per piece)

Shorts:I believe only 2 pairs of shorts will be needed. You can wear the same pair more than once. I’d suggest a cute pair of jean shorts as well as some khaki shorts to give you variety.

Denim Shorts - $14.95 American Eagle