Planning a trip to the Bahamas? Lucky you! With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and endless sunshine, the Bahamas is a dream destination for any traveler.
Personally, I love spending time in the Abacos. But before you kick back and relax on those sandy shores, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed all the essentials.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first time visiting the islands, this guide will help you create the perfect Bahamas packing list so you’re prepared for everything paradise has to offer.
What’s On Deck
1. Tropical Island Essentials
Originally, this section was titled “Beach Essentials” but the Bahamas have so much more than what their white sand beaches have to offer. Make sure you pack the following basics so you’re prepared for any type of tropical adventure.
Swimwear
Bring at least three swimsuits so you can always have a dry one ready to go — and you’ll have the right suit for specific water-based adventures. I recommend packing one that’s ideal for snorkeling all day, one that’s perfect for a beach trip, and one that’s comfortable enough to wear on sunburnt skin. (Speaking from personal experience)
Beach Towel
A quick-dry towel is ideal for beach days or trips to the sand bar. Opt for something easy to roll up and store in a small bag when not in use, especially if you’re staying on a boat during your trip versus renting a house on land.
SPF Long Sleeve Shirt
There will be days that your skin is over the sun exposure and you’ll be happy you have a soft, SPF long sleeve t-shirt to throw on and provide a layer of protection that doesn’t involve putting on more sunscreen.
I always pack two SPF long-sleeve shirts: one that fits normally, which is ideal for fishing, paddbleboarding, running errands, and hiking; and a second that’s oversized, offering an ultra loose fit that’s ideal for hanging out after a long day on the water.
Sun Hat
Keep that strong Caribbean sun off your face with a wide-brimmed hat that has a string to secure it under your chin. Boat rides and stiff breezes are notorious for whisking away hats.
Sometimes you can retrieve your favorite hat before it sinks into the ocean — other times, you’re not so lucky.
Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized lenses will help protect your eyes from glare and allow you to see beyond the surface of the water. One thing to keep in mind is that sunglasses sometimes make it easier to get a sunburn, so try to wear them only when you’re on the water to caution against too much accidental sun exposure.
Sunscreen
Packing reef-safe sunscreen for your Bahamian trip is essential not just for protecting your skin but also for preserving the vibrant marine ecosystems that make the Bahamas so special.
Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can cause coral bleaching and harm marine life. By choosing reef-safe sunscreen, you’re ensuring that the stunning coral reefs and the diverse marine species that inhabit them remain healthy and thriving for future generations to enjoy.
It’s a small step that makes a big difference in preserving the natural beauty of the Bahamas while you soak up the sun. Start your search for reef-safe sunscreen here >
After-Sun Lotion
After sun care is crucial to help your skin recover from exposure to the sun’s rays, even if you’ve used sunscreen. Hydrating your skin with a soothing after-sun lotion or aloe vera gel can alleviate redness, cool any sunburn, and restore moisture lost during the day.
Drinking plenty of water also helps rehydrate your skin from the inside out. Incorporating these steps into your routine ensures your skin stays healthy, reducing the risk of peeling, premature aging, and long-term sun damage.
Check out my comprehensive guide on non-toxic after-sun care options to find your new favorite.
2. Clothing
The Bahamas is all about laid-back, casual island vibes. The people are friendly and vibrant!
If you want to embrace the side of you that loves a bold print or a bright pink maxi dress, this is the trip to break out the color. You’ll be among company with the pastel colored houses, pink beaches, and clear blue water.
Here are the top categories of clothing I recommend you pack:
Loose-Fitting and Lightweight Clothing
Think breathable fabrics like cotton and linen when you’re pulling together your Bahamas packing list. Make sure to pack a mix of shorts, tank tops, and t-shirts so you can stay comfortable in the tropical summer heat. You can also pack linen pants or a sundress for additional options that might be better suited for dinners at a local restaurant.
Opting for flowy shirts, shorts, pants, and dresses help keep your skin cool in the hot island sun. You’ll be immensely thankful for a quick breeze when you’re wearing natural fibers that dry quickly and give your toasted skin some space to breathe.
Casual Dresses or Cover-Ups
Perfect for transitioning from the beach to a beachfront dinner, casual dresses and nice cover-ups are going to be the most utilized clothing items — second to your swimwear. I spend most of my holiday budget spending finding cute knit dresses, fun sheer pants, and kaftans.
Casual Evening Wear
While the islands are generally casual, pack a nicer outfit or two for dinners out or if you plan to visit a resort’s more formal restaurant.
Typically for a 10-night trip, you’ll want three options. If you’re staying for seven days or less, two evening wear outfits will be more than enough. I like packing a maxi dress, a flowy skirt, or a pair of linen pants that I can pair with a cute top.
Light Jacket or Sweater
After spending almost all day every day in the sun, your toasty skin will be sensitive to a dark night sky after sunset. You’ll be happy you have a light jacket or sweater that’s easy to layer if you eat inside at a nice restaurant or even walk home after getting a slice of key lime pie.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your Bahamian nights, evenings can get a little breezy, especially if you’re by the water.
P.S. Having a light sweatshirt you can put on at night after you got a little too much sun will feel like a life saver. Pack it, you won’t regret it.
3. Footwear
You won’t need much in the way of shoes so don’t overthink this category on your Bahamas packing list.
if you’re lucky, you’ll spend 95% of the time barefoot with your feet in the water. But for the times you do need solid footwear, make sure you have one pair of each of the following:
- Comfortable Sandals: Ideal for both beach and casual strolls into town to pick up provisions — don’t forget to get another loaf of Bahamian bread while you’re at it.
- Water Shoes: If you plan on visiting remote islands or exploring rocky areas, water shoes will protect your feet while supporting your adventure. I use these versatile water shoes when I’m going to a tropical location.
- Rubber Shoes: Whether you end up going on a boating trip or just plan on fishing that day, you’ll be glad you packed a pair of crocs or rubber sliders. They also work well as shower shoes, just in case.
4. Toiletries and Personal Items
While many items can be purchased on the islands, it’s best to bring your own to avoid expensive taxes and above-traditional sticker prices:
- Travel-Size Toiletries: I opt for shampoo and conditioner bars so I don’t have to worry about running out while on vacation. Make sure you grab a small size of your favorite body wash, body oil or moisturizer, and a facial mist to keep your skin cool in tropical conditions.
- Bug Spray: When you’re driving in your golf cart from your rental house to the bakery, you won’t have to worry about bugs. But, if there’s barely a breeze and you’re outside enjoying the sunset, make sure you bring non-toxic bug spray with you.
- Medications: Don’t forget any prescriptions, as well as a basic first-aid kit with pain relievers and band-aids. Having a mini personal first aid kit is a best practice for any international travel packing list.
5. Electronics
Don’t forget to capture all your favorite moments with the right photography and videography gear. Stay connected and capture those memories using the following items:
- Phone and Portable Power Bank: A portable charger is handy for long beach days or adventures when you’re not sure where you’re headed or when you’ll have access to an outlet.
- Cameras: If you’re into photography, bring a waterproof camera for those underwater shots. I typically pack a traditional underwater camera and a GoPro to capture high-quality video footage. If you’re planning on packing a drone, make sure you purchase a drone permit here before your trip. The Bahamian government is known to confiscate unregistered drones at the airport.
- E-Reader or iPad: Great for some beachside reading and easier to pack than your favorite book series, an e-reader or iPad is all you’ll need. Don’t bother bringing your laptop — work will be there when you get back.
- Adapters: If you’re traveling from outside the U.S., you may need a plug adapter to use the outlets available.
6. Extras for Adventure
If you plan on spending time in the water beyond the shoreline, consider packing these:
Snorkeling Gear
While you can rent gear, having your own mask and snorkel means you can jump into the water anytime. Plus, rental gear can be ill-fitting, causing discomfort in the water or even causing blisters on your feet if you rent uncomfortable fins.
Purchasing a pair of fins, a snorkel, and your own mask will give you the freedom and confidence to spend all day bottoms-up in the water when you find a lively coral head.
Dry Bag
Perfect for keeping your belongings safe and dry during water-based activities. Plus, if you’re packing for a liveaboard boating trip, you’ll be thankful you kept your valuables in a waterproof container while taking dingy rides back to your boat after drinking a couple too many on an anchored bar barge on the Fourth of July. Trust me.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key in the tropical sun. It’s also important to recognize that you are surrounded by miles and miles of water, so reducing your plastic consumption is critical.
By opting for stainless steel, refillable water bottles, you can reduce the amount of plastic you purchase that could accidentally enter the water.
Water pollution is much easier to do in an island environment, which is easy to forget when you’re enjoying yourself in this amazing country.
Fishing Gear
Having your own rods and reels to use whenever you want is a major luxury when you’re exploring the Bahamian waters. There are so many pockets of sea creatures and opportunities to put a line in the water.
You can get away with a light rod and tackle — especially if you’re a big flats fisherman.
7. Important Documents
Perhaps one of the most important categories on your Bahamas packing list should be your travel documents. Don’t leave home without these:
Passport
Make sure it’s up to date well beyond the last day of your trip! You don’t want to encounter travel delays and get stranded somewhere with an expired passport.
It’s extremely important to remember to renew your passport. Getting a new passport after one has expired requires more time, money, and paperwork. If you stay on top of renewing your already issued passport, you only have a couple of forms to fill out and a minimal fee to pay to get a new version sent to you in the mail.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to renew an expiring passport at least two months ahead of your trip date. I’ve heard too many stories of people booking a trip and forgetting to renew their passport, causing an insanely frantic start to their trip, if they can get a new passport in time.
I don’t know about you, but that level of stress is not how I want to start my vacation.
Copies of Important Documents
Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, travel itinerary, and any reservation confirmations in the unfortunate event that you misplace your travel information or paperwork. This is always a step I recommend for any international adventure.
Insurance
This is an optional item that’s extremely helpful if you’re traveling to the Bahamas by boat.
Extending your boat insurance to provide coverage during your trip is well worth it. It could be the difference between getting your boat stolen and having no way to recover your investment or creating a safety net that allows you to purchase a new vessel after returning safely to the United States.
Counting Down the Days Until Your Bahamian Vacation
Packing for the Bahamas is all about being prepared for sun, sand, and adventure. Keep it light and casual, and focus on the essentials that will keep you comfortable and stylish during your trip.
Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring underwater worlds, or enjoying the local culture, having the right gear will help you make the most of your time in paradise.
Now that you’ve got your packing list sorted, all that’s left to do is count down the days until you’re soaking up the sun in the beautiful Bahamas!
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