🧳 Trip Planning · Aruba

What to Pack for Aruba: The Complete Packing List

Aruba’s hot, sunny, and breezy climate — combined with the mix of beach days, restaurant evenings, and outdoor adventures — means packing strategically matters. This list covers everything you actually need (and what to leave behind) for a trip to Aruba.

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Clothing

Lightweight clothing — linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking fabrics. Aruba is hot (average 84°F/29°C) and windy.
Swimwear — 2–3 sets minimum. You’ll be in and out of the water daily.
Cover-ups and sarongs — for walking from beach to restaurant
One smart casual outfit — for nicer restaurants in the evening
Light jacket or wrap — air conditioning in restaurants and the casino can be aggressive; trade winds at night can be cool
Water shoes — essential for rocky beaches like Arashi and Baby Beach
Comfortable walking sandals — for Oranjestad sightseeing
Closed-toe shoes for jeep tours — essential for off-road adventures

Sun & Water Essentials

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+) — chemical sunscreens are restricted on many catamaran tours. Bring reef-safe mineral sunscreen.
Polarised sunglasses — the Caribbean sun reflects intensely off white sand and water
Wide-brim hat — beach days with no shade are long. A hat is not optional.
Snorkel mask and fins — rentals are available everywhere but bringing your own guarantees a proper fit. A prescription mask is worth investing in if you wear glasses.
Waterproof phone case or GoPro — the water is clear and the snorkelling is extraordinary
Reusable water bottle — stay hydrated. Aruba’s tap water is some of the cleanest in the Caribbean.

Health & Practical Items

After-sun lotion — aloe vera gel is ideal (Aruba aloe is world-famous)
Mosquito repellent — mostly needed at dawn/dusk in garden areas; the beach trade winds keep mosquitoes away
Motion sickness medication — if you’re taking catamaran or boat tours (the western coast is calm but some people are sensitive)
Power adapter — Aruba uses US-standard 110V sockets. European visitors need an adapter.
US dollars or Aruban florins — US dollars are universally accepted. Cards work everywhere.

What NOT to Pack

An umbrella — Aruba averages 17 inches of rain per year. You almost certainly won’t need it.
Heavy clothing — you won’t need anything heavier than a light wrap or cardigan
Formal attire — Aruba is casual. Even the nicest restaurants are smart-casual at most.
Too many shoes — sandals, water shoes, and one pair of closed-toe shoes is all you need

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reef-safe sunscreen in Aruba?

Yes — reef-safe sunscreen is strongly encouraged and required on most catamaran and snorkel tours. Many operators will turn you away if you’re wearing chemical sunscreen. Bring a mineral-based SPF 30+ formula.

What currency should I bring to Aruba?

US dollars are universally accepted everywhere in Aruba. You don’t need to exchange currency. Credit and debit cards are accepted at most establishments. ATMs are widely available.

Do I need a power adapter for Aruba?

US and Canadian visitors don’t need an adapter — Aruba uses 110V US-standard outlets. European visitors need a US-style plug adapter.

Ready to Book Your Aruba Experience?

Free cancellation on most tours. Secure booking via Viator. Book 2-3 days in advance in peak season.