by Linda Catoe

Created on: February 09, 2009   Last Updated: February 19, 2009

A Caribbean vacation is like a day at the beach! In fact, it is a day, or several, at the beach. Pack casual and light, with an emphasis on sunning and swimming. Don't forget the serious shades and a beach hat or two, as the equatorial rays pack a powerful punch.

Along with the flip-flops and sandals, a pair of crock-type shoes and/or water shoes can save your feet on rocks, corral and whatever you can see in the water (which is everything), but don't wish to step on. As far as snorkeling gear goes, you can rent it, or haul it with you, it's your call.

Cotton, linen and other summer fabrics lend themselves well to the tropical climes of the Caribbean. Shorts and t-shirts work for just about everything and everybody. For the ladies, pack sundresses, Capri pants and light tops. Sarongs can wrap around swimsuits or dress up for dinner. Guys, go khaki and cargo, leave the denim at home. Oh, and you'll want to forgo the camouflage and military fatigues, as they're not allowed in Trinidad and Tobago. Golf shirts go everywhere, even under a casual dinner jacket. Hawaiian shirts? If not now, when? Unless your plans include extreme rainforest or mountain hiking, a pair of sneakers will cover your exploring and scooter riding footwear needs. All explorers will do themselves a favor to take along a hoody for brief showers that pop up daily in some Caribbean locales.

Please take a camera with you to the Caribbean. A small digital camera can capture the most picturesque views you will ever see. Bring your digital SLR with the pro lenses, but know that you may not want to take it on the beach for a number of reasons, starting with sand and including, but not limited to, theft. And if you decide to go for a little spur of the moment snorkeling, are you going to want to haul your big camera back to the hotel or leave it with your beach stuff?

Speaking of beach stuff, pack a small cloth bag for your sunscreen, water bottle and other beach supplies. You can purchase sunscreen on-island or bring your own, depending on where you stand on liquids in your luggage, and the "3-1-1 rule" for airline travel. Forget it. Just buy some sunscreen upon arrival the Caribbean; support the local economy and all that.

While keeping your packing light, pack anything that you can't live without in the way of health, medical and beauty supplies. Who wants to spend their vacation hunting down their basic well-being? Insect repellent, lip balm and aloe vera can be easily purchased on your vacation. Pack a large enough bag for gifts and souvenirs you acquire on you Caribbean vacation.

To keep it simple, remember to pack your airline ticket, passport and other ID, along with a small amount of cash, in an easily accessible front pocket of a carry on bag. If you have room in that carry on, pack a change of clothes, especially when traveling from much colder climates. If your luggage should get lost, you can start your vacation while your luggage catches up to you. Relax, have a pina colada. When bound for the Caribbean, live large, pack light!

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