Packing List For Cuba

1. Maxi dress

Cuba has a subtropical climate and on the average, the weather is hot and humid peaking in the summer. This is why packing a maxi dress for your trip will be a really smart choice. A flowy maxi dress made of light fabric can be your perfect partner for a day at the beach, where you can stay stylish and choose fun patterns to wear without compromising the comfort. Not only that but depending on the fabric, there are also maxi dresses which can conveniently keep your legs warm on cool bus rides–given that buses are one of the main means of transportation in Cuba.

2. Foldable backpack

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Most of the time when we travel, we bring just a luggage or a travel backpack to keep our things in. So what do we do for the days when the scheduled activity is light, like sightseeing or shopping–how can we bring our valuables in a convenient manner? Herein enters the foldable backpack–made up of ultralight material, it can fit in your luggage because it usually compresses into a pouch. It is also ideal for when you don’t need to carry a bag for the whole day; just take out the foldable backpack from your pocket as necessary.

3. Walking sandals

Cuba is a beautiful country with lots of places to visit, that’s why it is a given that your trip will involve a lot of walking. Make sure to pack a pair of reliable walking sandals because apart from it being comfortable on the feet, it is also open and ventilated which suits the hot climate of the country. Most walking sandals are quick drying and can be conveniently worn on the beach. You can even chose a style that will compliment your outfit!

4. Party outfit

1/2 Woman in Red Off-shoulder Dress and Black Hat

2/2 Man in Yellow and Black Polo Shirt Wearing Grey Shorts and Black Hat

Cubans love to party! In fact, its capital Havana is one of the top party destinations in the world. During the night, streets come alive with musicians, vendors, and vibrant people. You don’t need to have a large budget to party in Cuba. Join locals and split some cheap rum and enjoy the breezy night outside, dancing to eclectic music. So make sure to pack comfortable party attire: women can go for something simple but cute like an off-shoulder dress, styled with accessories; while men can go with something like a printed polo shirt and denim shorts.

5. Shampoo and conditioner

You can never be sure what international brands would be available in the place you’re traveling to. That is why it’s important to bring your own hair conditioner, shampoo, as well as other toiletries especially when you’re particular with what brand to use. But remember, bring only the appropriate travel amount which is 100 ml (3.4 ounces) when you’re bringing it as a carry-on and seal the liquid in spill-proof containers.

6. Medicine kit

Though there is a decent number of international pharmacies around Cuba, it would still cost you some time and effort to go out of the way and look for one. Explaining your medical condition to a pharmacist may also prove to be difficult, especially when you don’t speak the country’s native language. So make sure to pack all the basic medicine in one kit: Ibuprofen for minor pains and headaches, Pepto-Bismol tablets for an upset stomach, motion sickness tablet, as well as your other existing medications. Apart from medicine, you should also pack adhesive bandages and some antiseptic for small cuts and wounds.

7. Contact lenses solution

Contact lenses solution is an essential item when it comes to proper lenses care and handling. You can’t really just substitute cleaning your lenses with water in case you run out of a solution, so you’d want to make sure that you bring enough for the trip. Put it in a spill-proof bottle and pack it together with other toiletries. It is also advisable to bring your glasses as back-up.

8. Snorkel gear

If you have it at home, it would also be advisable to bring your own snorkel gear, as Cuba offers clear waters and amazing coral reef that are perfect for snorkeling. Snorkeling expeditions include a full gear plus a guide for a reasonable fee. But, the advantage of bringing your own is that you wouldn’t have to worry about how someone else used the gear before you. Also, pack your favorite swim wear to go with the snorkel gear!

9. Mosquito repellent

Cuba is a subtropical country, which means that mosquitoes are frequently present. But don’t let that stop you from visiting this beauty–pack some mosquito repellent and apply it before you go on for the day. Then, make sure to reapply every time you get out of the water. On the likely chance that some mosquitoes may still get to you, it would also be helpful to pack an after bite ointment or cream to get rid of the sting or itch.

10. Hand sanitizer or antibacterial wet wipes

Finally, make sure to pack a hand sanitizer or set of antibacterial wet wipes. These would come in handy in case public restrooms don’t have hand soap or tissues, and generally, whenever you need something to quickly cool up and clean your hands or skin.

A Caribbean treasure

Carrying so much history through the Old Havana, museums holding memories of the revolutions and communism, or Cadillacs running on pot-holed roads, Cuba separates itself from the usual vacation spots. It truly is a Caribbean treasure because not only does it house fine beaches or offer the perfect venue for relaxation or a good time, Cuba also tells a rich story that has been preserved for years and years. We hope our packing list helped you get started in planning for that vacation. Have a safe trip!