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Aruba Packing List
Reef-safe sunscreen, light layers and the paperwork for a hot, breezy island trip.
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Sort three things before you pack. Your passport needs to be valid, the ED card filled in and signed, and your sunscreen free of oxybenzone, which Aruba has banned since 2020. Full Life, Full Passport says you could be penalized for bringing it in. The rest is easy: the Aruba Tourism Authority puts the average temperature at 82°F and says the sun peaks from 11 am to 2:30 pm. This list assumes a beach-and-explore trip with a few dinners out. It leaves out cruise-specific gear, and plenty of basics can be bought on the island.
Why these items are on the list
- Valid passport. Entry also needs a valid return or onward ticket.
- Completed ED card. Must be completely filled in and signed before you're allowed in.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, SPF 50 or higher. Oxybenzone is banned. Full Life, Full Passport advises at least SPF 50 for the strong sun.
- Lip balm with sunblock. Lips burn too. One of Full Life, Full Passport's party got a painful sunburn.
- After-sun lotion or aloe. Locally made Aruba Aloe is sold everywhere, so you can buy it on arrival.
- Several swimsuits. Full Life, Full Passport suggests 2 to 3; make one secure enough for snorkeling, cliff jumping and cave pools.
- Cover-up or pareo. Cover up between beach and lunch. A rash guard counts.
- Rash guard with SPF. Useful for snorkeling and long swims. Royal Caribbean says it also guards against minor coral scrapes.
- Water shoes or sturdy sandals. The Natural Pool bars barefoot or flimsy footwear. Water shoes also help on rocky beaches.
- Sneakers for exploring. Live it up with Lacey rates tennis shoes for ATV and horseback tours, against sharp rocks and cacti.
- Adjustable sun hat. Trade winds can blow off a loose hat, so choose one that tightens.
- Sunglasses for glare. Pair with a hat. Squinting happens even with sunglasses in that sun.
- Lightweight activewear. Aruba is hot and dusty. Pack sweat-wicking clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
- Long-sleeve UV shirt. Covering up beats wearing less at midday, when the sun is at its worst.
- Casual shorts and tops. For Oranjestad strolls, beach bars and relaxed dinners.
- Light dinner outfits. Resort areas dress up a little. Aruba is casual, and comfort wins.
- Light jacket or shawl. Air-conditioned restaurants and casinos get cold, and some nights turn cool and breezy.
- Beach bag or tote. A sturdy tote for daily beach gear.
- Day pack. Holds sunscreen, a change of clothes, wallet, camera and snacks for exploring days.
- Insulated water bottle. The Aruba Tourism Authority puts average temperature at 82°F, so bring something that keeps water cold.
- Cooler or insulated bag. Optional for beach days, to keep drinks and snacks chilled.
- Baby powder. Aruba's fine sand clings to skin. Powder brushes it off, one blogger swears.
- Cash, including small bills. Taxis, tips and souvenirs need it. US dollars are widely accepted.
- Credit card and bank heads-up. Tell your card provider your travel dates, or overseas charges may be questioned.
- Prescription medications. Foreign prescriptions generally aren't honored at local pharmacies, and the specific drug may not be sold there.
- Chargers and cables. Per Live it up with Lacey, Aruba uses US outlets, so only travelers from Europe need an adapter.
- Own snorkel mask and fins. Royal Caribbean says your own gear means a good fit and no waiting for rentals.
- Small first aid kit. For minor injuries and ailments on beach and excursion days.
- Insect repellent. Royal Caribbean lists it against mosquito bites, especially in the evening.
Paperwork first, then sun protection and beach gear. Tick as you pack and the list doubles as a final check at the door.
When to use it
Use it as soon as flights are booked, and again the night before you leave.