Aruba Packing List 2026

Sun and Water Essentials

• Reef-safe mineral sunscreen SPF 30+ — chemical sunscreens are banned on most catamaran and snorkel tours. Buy before you travel.
• Polarised sunglasses — the Caribbean sun reflecting off white sand is intense.
• Wide-brim hat — long beach days have little shade. Non-negotiable.
• Water shoes — essential at Baby Beach and Arashi Beach where entries are rocky and coral-covered.
• Snorkel mask and fins — rentals available in Palm Beach for around $15/day. Bringing your own guarantees a proper fit.
• Underwater camera or GoPro — Aruba is one of the best underwater photography destinations in the Caribbean.
• Reusable water bottle — tap water is desalinated and completely safe. Stay hydrated.

Clothing

• Swimwear x3 minimum — you will be in and out of the water daily. Quick-dry fabrics work best.
• Lightweight casual clothing — linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking. Everything is casual in Aruba.
• One smart-casual outfit — for nicer dinners. Nothing formal required.
• Light jacket or wrap — for air-conditioned restaurants and cooler evenings.
• Closed-toe shoes — essential for jeep safari and ATV tours.

Practical Items

• US dollars or credit card — USD universally accepted, no exchange needed.
• Power adapter — Aruba uses US 110V standard outlets. European visitors need a US-type adapter.
• After-sun lotion or aloe gel — Aruba aloe is world-famous. Buy local once you arrive.
• Motion sickness tablets — if taking catamaran or boat tours.

What NOT to Pack

• An umbrella — Aruba gets 17 inches of rain per year.
• Heavy clothing — nothing heavier than a light wrap.
• Formal wear — even the best restaurants are smart-casual.
• Chemical sunscreen — use reef-safe mineral SPF instead.