Travel Check List: What to Do Before Taking a Tropical Vacation

Planning a tropical vacation? Here are a few things to think about before you hop on the plane to your sunny destination.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a key element of your trip, and can provide piece of mind for tropical vacations – especially if you’re traveling during hurricane season. With the weird storm seasons as of late, don’t always assume you’re safe just because the calendar says you should be.

Scuba Certification

Are you planning on doing any scuba diving on your vacation? If you’re not already certified, you have several options to consider. Completing your certification may not always be the easiest task, especially if you live in cold weather destinations. If you have enough time on your holiday, do your bookwork and pool dives before you leave, but do your check out dives in the tropics with clear and calm water.

Bring Sundries and Medications

While your resort or local store might have some sundries, you’re likely to pay quite a premium for them. If there is a kind of suntan lotion you prefer or if you’re in need of bug repellent – bring your own! If luggage space/weight is not a big issue, you should pack a few bottles. If there is any left when your vacation is over, give it to the bar staff – they often keep bug spray and stuff behind the counter for patrons as well.

Check Dress Codes

It’s a good idea to get acquainted with the dress codes of the destination(s) you’re visiting on holiday. Some tropical destinations are very laid back and low key, while others have dress code requirements for some restaurants, especially at dinnertime.

Immunizations

Right now, everyone is on heightened alert about travel in general with various viruses coming to light. There is no vaccine for the Zika virus or Dengue Fever, but you should check with your doctor and visit the CDC’s travel page to see if there are recommended immunizations for the tropical destination you’re visiting. Pay attention to requirements from arrival countries – if you’re traveling on a cruise, there may be additional proof of vaccination required if you docked in a neighboring region.

What to Pack

People tend to over pack for tropical vacations in many instances. Go for layers, bring a light jacket, and save room, as you’re likely to buy gifts in your destination. If you’re traveling to an all-inclusive resort where you plan to lounge by the pool all day, every day, do you really need a different pair of shorts for every occasion? Definitely bring a variety of shoe options if your tropical destination includes any adventure! You’ll not only want shoes you can wear by the pool, but bring some waterproof or multi-purpose shoes if you plan to do any activities like cave tubing, zip-lining, etc.

If you’re still worried about forgetting something, go online and search tropical packing lists – there are some great options out there that cover both beach vacations and cruise vacations!

What are some of your best tropical vacation travel tips?

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Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.