What to Pack for Aruba
Everything I’d recommend bringing for a more comfortable, relaxing, and unforgettable vacation.
Whether you’re planning to spend your days snorkeling, beach hopping, exploring the island by car, or simply relaxing with a cocktail in hand, these are the items I genuinely think are worth packing.
When people think about packing for Aruba, they usually remember the obvious things: swimsuits, flip-flops, and sunscreen.
But after living on the island, I’ve realized it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference.
Some of these items will save you money. Others will make your beach days more relaxing, your snorkeling adventures easier, or simply help you enjoy your vacation without wishing you’d packed something you left at home.
If you’re wondering what to pack for Aruba, here’s everything I’d recommend.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen ☀️
The Caribbean sun is stronger than many visitors expect, and you’ll probably use more sunscreen than you think.
Buying sunscreen on Aruba is possible, but it’s usually much more expensive than bringing it from home. I always recommend packing enough before your trip.
Please choose a reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Aruba’s beautiful marine life while snorkeling.
Reusable Water Bottle
One of Aruba’s best-kept secrets?
The tap water is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world.
I never leave home without my insulated bottle. It keeps my water ice cold for hours, even after spending the entire afternoon at the beach.
Any insulated bottle works, but having one with you every day makes it much easier to stay hydrated in Aruba’s warm climate.
Bring Your Own Snorkel Set 🤿
If you think you’ll snorkel more than once during your vacation, I’d absolutely recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel.
Not only will you know everything fits comfortably, but you’ll also have the freedom to stop whenever you discover a beautiful snorkeling spot.
Some of my favorite places to snorkel include Boca Catalina, Tres Trapi, Mangel Halto, and Baby Beach.
Having your own gear means you’re always ready.
Underwater Phone Case 📱
This is one of the most underrated things you can pack for Aruba.
Modern smartphones take incredible photos, so unless you’re planning on scuba diving deeper than 50ft, you probably don’t need a separate underwater camera.
A sturdy underwater phone case lets you capture colorful fish, coral, sea turtles (if you’re lucky!), and underwater videos while snorkeling—all with the phone you already own. It’s one of my favorite ways to capture memories without carrying extra camera equipment.
One tip I always recommend: before your trip, place a tissue inside the case and submerge it in water for a few minutes. If the tissue stays completely dry, you’ll know the seal is working properly before trusting it with your phone.
These cases are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and shallow underwater adventures. Just remember they’re designed for recreational use—not deep scuba diving.
Water Shoes
If there’s one item many first-time visitors don’t think about until they’re here, it’s water shoes.
While Aruba has plenty of beautiful sandy beaches, several of the island’s best snorkeling spots have rocky entrances.
I especially recommend bringing them if you plan to visit Tres Trapi, Boca Catalina, Mangel Halto, or the Natural Pool. They’re also surprisingly useful around parts of Baby Beach if you’re heading out to snorkel.
Your feet will thank you.
Waterproof Waist Pouch
If everyone in your group wants to go snorkeling together, what do you do with your phone, hotel key, cash, and credit cards?
Instead of taking turns watching your belongings, a waterproof waist pouch lets you safely keep your valuables with you while you’re in the water.
It’s such a simple item, but it gives you so much peace of mind.
Hammock Float 🌊
This is honestly one of my favorite things to bring to the beach.
Unlike large inflatable floats, hammock floats fold down surprisingly small, so they hardly take up any room in your suitcase.
They’re perfect for floating around in the calm waters of Eagle Beach, Baby Beach, or Palm Beach. You can sit upright, lean back, or simply drift while enjoying the sunshine.
If I had to choose one beach accessory to pack, this would probably be it.
Small Collapsible Cooler
Planning to rent a car and explore the island?
A collapsible cooler is incredibly useful.
Fill it with ice, cold water, fruit, sandwiches, or snacks before heading out for the day. It’s perfect for longer beach days at places like Baby Beach or Rodgers Beach, where you might easily spend several hours.
When you’re finished, simply fold it flat and pack it away.
Hat with a Chin Strap
Aruba is famous for its constant trade winds.
They’re one of the reasons the island stays so comfortable, but they’re also the reason so many hats end up flying across the beach.
A lightweight sun hat with a chin strap makes all the difference.
Towel Clips or Towel Bands
If you’ve never been to Aruba before, you might wonder why everyone seems to have towel clips and bands.
By your second day, you’ll probably understand.
The trade winds can be surprisingly strong, and towel clips keep everything exactly where it belongs while you relax.
Reusable Straw
Aruba no longer uses single-use plastic straws, so most restaurants serve paper straws instead.
If you’re anything like me and don’t enjoy soggy paper straws in your frozen cocktail, pack a reusable bamboo or stainless steel straw.
It takes up almost no room in your suitcase, and you’ll probably end up using it every day.
Lip Balm with SPF
Most people remember sunscreen.
Almost everyone forgets their lips.
After spending a full day in the Caribbean sun, SPF lip balm is one of those little things you’ll be glad you packed.
Portable Phone Charger
Between taking photos, using Google Maps, looking up restaurants, and sharing your vacation on social media, your phone battery disappears surprisingly fast.
A small portable charger is always worth bringing.
Electrolytes
You’ll probably sweat more than you expect on Aruba.
Adding electrolytes to your water every now and then can help you stay hydrated, especially after spending the day at the beach or exploring Arikok National Park.
Dry Bag
Whether you’re kayaking, taking a boat trip, or simply spending the day at the beach, a dry bag keeps your valuables protected from water and sand.
It’s one of those items you hope you won’t need—but once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it.
Small First Aid Kit
You probably won’t need it.
But if you do, you’ll be very happy you packed it.
A few bandages, blister patches, pain relievers, antiseptic cream, and tweezers don’t take up much space and can save you from having to search for a pharmacy during your vacation.
Cash in Small Bills
Although credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, it’s still a good idea to bring plenty of $1 and $5 bills.
They’re perfect for tipping, taxi rides, and small purchases throughout your trip.
Lightweight Beach Cover-Up
Many beach bars and restaurants ask guests to wear a cover-up or shirt before coming inside.
A lightweight cover-up barely takes up any room in your suitcase, and chances are you’ll wear it every day.
Hair Ties
If you have long hair…
Bring more hair ties than you think you’ll need.
Aruba’s trade winds are wonderful—your hair may have a different opinion. 😄
Sunglasses
This one probably goes without saying.
But if you’re anything like me, bringing a backup pair is never a bad idea.
❤️ Things I Never Leave Home Without
If I had to pack for Aruba tomorrow, these are the items I’d throw into my suitcase without even thinking twice:
🤿 My own snorkel set
👟 Water shoes
📱 An underwater phone case
🌊 A hammock float
🥤 My insulated Yeti water bottle (Yes… I’m a bit obsessed with my Yeti. 😄)
🔒 A waterproof waist pouch
🧊 A collapsible cooler
🥤 A reusable bamboo straw
Ready for Aruba?
Packing for Aruba doesn’t have to be complicated.
Most visitors spend their days in swimsuits, flip-flops, and lightweight clothing anyway. Instead of packing more outfits, I’d focus on bringing a few thoughtful items that make your beach days more comfortable, your snorkeling adventures easier, and your island road trips even more enjoyable.
I hope this guide helps you feel a little more prepared for your trip. Have an amazing time on our One Happy Island! 🌴
💙 Before You Zip Up Your Suitcase…
I hope this packing list helps you feel a little more prepared for your Aruba vacation.
But if it’s your first time visiting the island, there are quite a few things I wish someone had told me before my own first trip.
Things like why you probably won’t wear half the clothes you packed, why Aruba feels bigger than it looks on the map, and why you’ll likely start planning your next visit before you’ve even boarded your flight home.
If you’d like a few more local tips before you go, this is the guide I’d read next.
25 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Aruba
What to Pack for Aruba
Everything I’d recommend bringing for a more comfortable, relaxing, and unforgettable vacation.
Whether you’re planning to spend your days snorkeling, beach hopping, exploring the island by car, or simply relaxing with a cocktail in hand, these are the items I genuinely think are worth packing.
When people think about packing for Aruba, they usually remember the obvious things: swimsuits, flip-flops, and sunscreen.
But after living on the island, I’ve realized it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference.
Some of these items will save you money. Others will make your beach days more relaxing, your snorkeling adventures easier, or simply help you enjoy your vacation without wishing you’d packed something you left at home.
If you’re wondering what to pack for Aruba, here’s everything I’d recommend.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen ☀️
The Caribbean sun is stronger than many visitors expect, and you’ll probably use more sunscreen than you think.
Buying sunscreen on Aruba is possible, but it’s usually much more expensive than bringing it from home. I always recommend packing enough before your trip.
Please choose a reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Aruba’s beautiful marine life while snorkeling.
Reusable Water Bottle
One of Aruba’s best-kept secrets?
The tap water is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world.
I never leave home without my insulated bottle. It keeps my water ice cold for hours, even after spending the entire afternoon at the beach.
Any insulated bottle works, but having one with you every day makes it much easier to stay hydrated in Aruba’s warm climate.
Bring Your Own Snorkel Set 🤿
If you think you’ll snorkel more than once during your vacation, I’d absolutely recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel.
Not only will you know everything fits comfortably, but you’ll also have the freedom to stop whenever you discover a beautiful snorkeling spot.
Some of my favorite places to snorkel include Boca Catalina, Tres Trapi, Mangel Halto, and Baby Beach.
Having your own gear means you’re always ready.
Underwater Phone Case 📱
This is one of the most underrated things you can pack for Aruba.
Modern smartphones take incredible photos, so unless you’re planning on scuba diving deeper than 50ft, you probably don’t need a separate underwater camera.
A sturdy underwater phone case lets you capture colorful fish, coral, sea turtles (if you’re lucky!), and underwater videos while snorkeling—all with the phone you already own. It’s one of my favorite ways to capture memories without carrying extra camera equipment.
One tip I always recommend: before your trip, place a tissue inside the case and submerge it in water for a few minutes. If the tissue stays completely dry, you’ll know the seal is working properly before trusting it with your phone.
These cases are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and shallow underwater adventures. Just remember they’re designed for recreational use—not deep scuba diving.
Water Shoes
If there’s one item many first-time visitors don’t think about until they’re here, it’s water shoes.
While Aruba has plenty of beautiful sandy beaches, several of the island’s best snorkeling spots have rocky entrances.
I especially recommend bringing them if you plan to visit Tres Trapi, Boca Catalina, Mangel Halto, or the Natural Pool. They’re also surprisingly useful around parts of Baby Beach if you’re heading out to snorkel.
Your feet will thank you.
Waterproof Waist Pouch
If everyone in your group wants to go snorkeling together, what do you do with your phone, hotel key, cash, and credit cards?
Instead of taking turns watching your belongings, a waterproof waist pouch lets you safely keep your valuables with you while you’re in the water.
It’s such a simple item, but it gives you so much peace of mind.
Hammock Float 🌊
This is honestly one of my favorite things to bring to the beach.
Unlike large inflatable floats, hammock floats fold down surprisingly small, so they hardly take up any room in your suitcase.
They’re perfect for floating around in the calm waters of Eagle Beach, Baby Beach, or Palm Beach. You can sit upright, lean back, or simply drift while enjoying the sunshine.
If I had to choose one beach accessory to pack, this would probably be it.
Small Collapsible Cooler
Planning to rent a car and explore the island?
A collapsible cooler is incredibly useful.
Fill it with ice, cold water, fruit, sandwiches, or snacks before heading out for the day. It’s perfect for longer beach days at places like Baby Beach or Rodgers Beach, where you might easily spend several hours.
When you’re finished, simply fold it flat and pack it away.
Hat with a Chin Strap
Aruba is famous for its constant trade winds.
They’re one of the reasons the island stays so comfortable, but they’re also the reason so many hats end up flying across the beach.
A lightweight sun hat with a chin strap makes all the difference.
Towel Clips or Towel Bands
If you’ve never been to Aruba before, you might wonder why everyone seems to have towel clips and bands.
By your second day, you’ll probably understand.
The trade winds can be surprisingly strong, and towel clips keep everything exactly where it belongs while you relax.
Reusable Straw
Aruba no longer uses single-use plastic straws, so most restaurants serve paper straws instead.
If you’re anything like me and don’t enjoy soggy paper straws in your frozen cocktail, pack a reusable bamboo or stainless steel straw.
It takes up almost no room in your suitcase, and you’ll probably end up using it every day.
Lip Balm with SPF
Most people remember sunscreen.
Almost everyone forgets their lips.
After spending a full day in the Caribbean sun, SPF lip balm is one of those little things you’ll be glad you packed.
Portable Phone Charger
Between taking photos, using Google Maps, looking up restaurants, and sharing your vacation on social media, your phone battery disappears surprisingly fast.
A small portable charger is always worth bringing.
Electrolytes
You’ll probably sweat more than you expect on Aruba.
Adding electrolytes to your water every now and then can help you stay hydrated, especially after spending the day at the beach or exploring Arikok National Park.
Dry Bag
Whether you’re kayaking, taking a boat trip, or simply spending the day at the beach, a dry bag keeps your valuables protected from water and sand.
It’s one of those items you hope you won’t need—but once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it.
Small First Aid Kit
You probably won’t need it.
But if you do, you’ll be very happy you packed it.
A few bandages, blister patches, pain relievers, antiseptic cream, and tweezers don’t take up much space and can save you from having to search for a pharmacy during your vacation.
Cash in Small Bills
Although credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, it’s still a good idea to bring plenty of $1 and $5 bills.
They’re perfect for tipping, taxi rides, and small purchases throughout your trip.
Lightweight Beach Cover-Up
Many beach bars and restaurants ask guests to wear a cover-up or shirt before coming inside.
A lightweight cover-up barely takes up any room in your suitcase, and chances are you’ll wear it every day.
Hair Ties
If you have long hair…
Bring more hair ties than you think you’ll need.
Aruba’s trade winds are wonderful—your hair may have a different opinion. 😄
Sunglasses
This one probably goes without saying.
But if you’re anything like me, bringing a backup pair is never a bad idea.
❤️ Things I Never Leave Home Without
If I had to pack for Aruba tomorrow, these are the items I’d throw into my suitcase without even thinking twice:
🤿 My own snorkel set
👟 Water shoes
📱 An underwater phone case
🌊 A hammock float
🥤 My insulated Yeti water bottle (Yes… I’m a bit obsessed with my Yeti. 😄)
🔒 A waterproof waist pouch
🧊 A collapsible cooler
🥤 A reusable bamboo straw
Ready for Aruba?
Packing for Aruba doesn’t have to be complicated.
Most visitors spend their days in swimsuits, flip-flops, and lightweight clothing anyway. Instead of packing more outfits, I’d focus on bringing a few thoughtful items that make your beach days more comfortable, your snorkeling adventures easier, and your island road trips even more enjoyable.
I hope this guide helps you feel a little more prepared for your trip. Have an amazing time on our One Happy Island! 🌴
💙 Before You Zip Up Your Suitcase…
I hope this packing list helps you feel a little more prepared for your Aruba vacation.
But if it’s your first time visiting the island, there are quite a few things I wish someone had told me before my own first trip.
Things like why you probably won’t wear half the clothes you packed, why Aruba feels bigger than it looks on the map, and why you’ll likely start planning your next visit before you’ve even boarded your flight home.
If you’d like a few more local tips before you go, this is the guide I’d read next.