All-Inclusive Resort Packing List

Why these items are on the list

1. Swimsuit and cover-up in carry-on. Checked bag late or room not ready? You can still change and hit the pool.
2. Passport valid beyond travel dates. Check it now. The Haphazard Traveler advises validity of at least six months beyond travel dates.
3. Visa or entry authorization. Research whether your destination requires a visa or electronic travel authorization to enter.
4. Resort booking details. A printout or screenshot helps with customs forms and finding your transfer.
5. Travel insurance information. Check what your home medical plan covers abroad. Emergency bills can often be reimbursed.
6. Credit card for emergencies. Carry at least one, kept with you rather than in checked luggage.
7. Cash for tipping. Enchanted Honeymoons says resorts usually state gratuities are included, and American dollars are fine in most popular all-inclusive destinations.
8. Bathing suits, more than one. The Haphazard Traveler says bring at least two, so you always have a dry one.
9. Rashguard or UPF cover-up. Worth having when your skin isn't used to the tropical sun.
10. Reef-safe sunscreen. Enchanted Honeymoons says tour operators require it on water excursions, protecting delicate ecosystems.
11. High-SPF sunscreen, full trip supply. Gift shop prices are steep. The Haphazard Traveler suggests decanting into 3.4-ounce bottles for carry-on.
12. Aloe or after-sun. Enchanted Honeymoons says aloe will likely cost more on site; The Haphazard Traveler struggled to find it.
13. Lip sunscreen. Enchanted Honeymoons admits to forgetting it constantly, so give it its own line.
14. Packable sun hat. Choose a wide brim. The Haphazard Traveler suggests wearing it on the flight.
15. Sunglasses for the beach. Family Can Travel lists them with the hat and rashguard as must-haves.
16. Dinner outfit for nicer restaurants. Enchanted Honeymoons says most nicer restaurants bar flip-flops at night. For men, it says open-toed shoes are usually not allowed.
17. Light sweater or jacket. For cool mornings, evenings and the plane.
18. Extra underwear for each day. Enchanted Honeymoons suggests at least two pairs per day, expecting more sweat, showers and activity than usual.
19. Pool and beach flip-flops. Easy casual wear around the resort. Nicer restaurants may bar them in the evening.
20. Reusable water bottle. Refill it at the resort to cut down on plastic.
21. Insulated tumbler. Keeps sand out and drinks colder longer than an open cup.
22. Towel clips. Hold a poolside spot, and double as clips for drying swimsuits on a balcony.
23. Waterproof phone pouch. Cheap protection from sand, spills and the odd dunking.
24. Power bank. A flat phone shouldn't cost you a good spot at the pool.
25. Travel adapter. The Haphazard Traveler says many Mexico and Caribbean resorts use type A or B plugs; islands like Curaçao may differ.
26. Bug spray and bandages. Enchanted Honeymoons lists both for packing; it says on-site band-aids will likely cost more than at home.
27. Your usual medications. Pack your own, along with pain relief and stomach remedies such as Tylenol and Tums.

Tick it off on your phone, and let your travel partner add what they're bringing. The carry-on items are easy to check last.