Airport check-in agents always want to work on the tropical destination flights because the baggage is that much lighter than those going to cooler climes.

Vacationing in the tropics means there's no need to pack bulky coats and sweaters but what else don't you need to take?

Tropical destinations are casual so starting with shoes, stick to sandals and flip flops and leave your closed-in shoes at home. Often you'll find a great selection of sandals in warmer destinations but throw in a pair of sneakers if you intend to do a lot of walking.

Leave your luggage devoid of clothing made of heavyweight fabrics and synthetics. Stick to clothes made of 100% cotton. Wearing synthetics in the high humidity of the tropics will have you feeling like you've been wrapped in plastic.

Go for sleeveless or short sleeve tops or t-shirts and add a light jacket for cooler nights or when you're in cold air conditioning.

Long trousers and pants can stay in your wardrobe at home. You may want to pack a pair of jeans for the journey there and back but you'll spend most of your time in shorts or lightweight long cotton pants.

Don't pack a handkerchief or scarf to use as head-wear. You really will need a hat with some kind of brim or you may suffer a nasty case of heat stroke.

Packing for the tropics has only one rule less is more, well more comfortable that is. The fun of the tropics is traveling light, what you pack to take home, well that's another story.

Learn more about this author, Belinda Youlten.
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