What to Pack

When we first began to travel in the Caribbean, we envisioned an elegant destination where visitors wore the most stylish sportswear and fine evening wear. It was an image created by stories of Caribbean travel earlier this century, when wealthy travelers made the long journey with steamer trunks and remained in the islands for weeks at a time. Today's jet travel has shortened the length of stay ­ and diminished the necessary amount of luggage ­ for a Caribbean journey.

We carry all the necessary accessories (which, on some islands, can be expensive or difficult to buy):

We quickly learned that in the Caribbean, the key wardrobe words are comfort and cool, not necessarily chic. Even if you'll be staying at the poshest resort and dining in the toniest restaurants, comfort comes first. A few restaurants require jackets for men (especially during high season), and we've identified those throughout this guidebook. Neckties are rarely seen.

We keep a permanent packing list for our Caribbean trips. For a four-night trip, we bring:

 

HIS	HERS
2 pairs casual slacks 2 pairs shorts 2 T-shirts 2 polo or short sleeve shirts 2 swimsuits 1 pair walking shoes 1 pair sandals or tennis shoes 1 pair water shoes	1 pair nice slacks or khakis 2 pairs shorts 1 T-shirt 2 short sleeve/sleeveless blouses 2 swimsuits, 1 cover-up 1 pair walking sandals 1 pair evening sandals 1 pair water shoes 1 casual skirt 1 dress or sundress