Packing for Puerto Rico: Complete Packing List + Free Printable

Puerto Rico Packing List: Must Haves for Your Caribbean Vacation 

The list below is the “master checklist” of the packing list for Puerto Rico. These are the things that should definitely be in your bag.

Beyond that, I’ve included additions to the master checklist of what to pack for Puerto Rico depending on the activities that you’ll be doing (e.g. exploring El Yunque, kayaking the bio bay, etc). 

This list assumes you’ll be in Puerto Rico for a week, but if you’re going for a shorter length of time, reduce the amount of clothes to wear in Puerto Rico only – leave everything else the same. 

Clothes To Wear in Puerto Rico 

• Sundresses (3-4): wondering how to dress for Puerto Rico? You’ll want a couple of light, breezy dresses (like this one and this one!) Look for breathable, flowy fabrics that will keep you cool and layer well over a swimsuit. 

• Tops (3-4): look for light colors in solids or timeless prints that can be mixed and matched with your bottoms. 

• Shorts (3): pack a variety, preferably in solid colors. Linen is a great, breathable fabric perfect for hot & sunny weather. 

• Swimsuits (3-4): it’s not a tropical vacation unless you’re hitting up the beach and you obviously need some cute swimsuits! If you like two-pieces: get solid bottoms and fun, printed tops so you can re-wear your pieces without anyone noticing! 

• Pajamas (1 pair): you don’t need heavy pajamas. Pack a lightweight pair or an oversized shirt and you’ll be good to go. 

• Swim Cover Ups (1-2): I like to cheat and get swim cover ups that double as dresses! 

• Underwear / Socks: always pack more than you think you’ll need! As a general rule, I pack at least one pair of underwear for each day I’ll be on vacation.

Shoes, Accessories & Other Essentials 

• Walking Shoes (1): you’ll want something casual that will pair well with your dresses and shorts/shirts outfits. My pair for exploring San Juan in one day was lightweight, but super comfortable sandals (these are similar). 

• Flip Flops (1): for the beach, and hanging out by the pool. You only need one pair, and these are a great option!

• Backpack or Crossbody Bag (1): I am so glad I brought a small backpack – it carried my camera, hat, water and a change of clothes without my arms getting tired. Alternatively, pack a good crossbody bag that’s spacious enough to carry your daily essentials! 

• Sunglasses: if you’re like me, you lose these all the time, so just bring a cheap, cute pair on your trip!

• Sun Hat: have I mentioned how sunny Puerto Rico is? Get a cute hat to help you stay cool (and look cute!)

• Quick-Dry Towel: I bought these quick-dry Turkish towels specifically for my Puerto Rico trip and I was NOT disappointed. I used mine on the plane as a scarf, at the beach as a blanket, and as an actual towel after getting wet in El Yunque. Seriously, they’re worth every penny! 

• Portable Charger: so you never run out of battery! This one is a good option. 

• Camera: your phone is fine if you want to pack light, but I never regret lugging my DSLR around for better photos! 

• Sunscreen: this sunscreen is one of my top things to pack for Puerto Rico. I love it because it smells like coconuts and is super lightweight. Plus, it doesn’t contain avobenzone and oxybenzone, chemicals that aren’t great for you or the environment.

• Waterproof Cell Phone Protector: for getting photos of you or your friends playing in the water without ruining your phone! This one is an affordable option. 

• Printed Confirmations & Cash: I usually print my hotel / tours / rental car confirmations and bring them with me just in case. As for cash, you don’t need much but there weren’t any major US banks (like Chase, BofA, Wells Fargo) on the island when we visited in 2021. 

• Reusable Water Bottle: make sure it’s empty when you go through TSA! I don’t go anywhere without this water bottle, and it helped keep me hydrated when walking the streets of Old San Juan.  

Toiletries & Other Things You’ll Need

Below you’ll find a list of the toiletries and other essential items that you’ll want to bring with you on your trip to Puerto Rico. I recommend buying some reusable TSA approved bottles to pack your favorite items. 

Whether or not you use reusable bottles though, make sure you pack your toiletries in leak-proof bags to prevent any spills in your luggage. 

Things to Make the Plane Ride Better 

• Neck pillow, especially if you have a long flight. 

• Headphones, to keep yourself entertained.

• A pashmina scarf, to keep yourself warm (I use them as blankets on plane rides!)

Things NOT to Pack for Puerto Rico

• Heavy sweaters, unless you’re visiting the Puerto Rican mountains overnight. 

• Books. Bring an e-reader (like a Kindle or Kobo) instead. 

• High heels, unless you plan to hit up the Puerto Rican nightlife scene. 

• Expensive jewelry. I packed a cheap pair of gold hoops and that was it! 

Other Posts You’ll Love 

• Plan your Puerto Rico trip with this 7 day Puerto Rico itinerary. It’s got everything you need to plan an epic trip! 

• Explore the jungle with this guide to El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico!