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What to Pack for New Kingston

What to Pack for New Kingston

New Kingston Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica Travel Guide

Everyday Wear

Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal due to the consistently high temperatures and humidity. Opt for natural materials like cotton and linen.

Day & Evening Comfort

Cultural Dress & Activities

Kingston is a relatively modern city, and casual attire is fine for general sightseeing. A degree of modesty holds value, especially when visiting religious sites or formal establishments.

Specific Attire

  • Religious Sites: Shoulders and knees covered. Carry a Light scarf or wrap.
  • Hiking (Blue Mountains): Sturdy closed-toe shoes or Hiking sandals with good grip.
  • Swimming/Beach: Standard Swimwear at beaches. A cover-up for public spaces.

Footwear Essentials

City Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals for daily wear and city exploration. You will likely do a good amount of going on foot.

Prioritize comfortable walking shoes for city exploration.

Mountain Trails

If planning treks, especially in the Blue Mountains, light Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes with good ankle support are suggested.

Trails are uneven and sometimes muddy.

Water Adventures

Water-friendly sandals or Water shoes are good for beach activities, rocky shorelines, or Lime Cay. They protect your feet.

Good for foot protection and grip.

Essential Documents

Useful Papers

Keeping your documents organized and safe is a top priority for any international journey. Have both original and backup copies.

  • Passport and visa papers: Carry originals, keep photocopies separate, digital copies on secure cloud.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Policy number, emergency contact, what's covered. Both digital and physical copies.
  • International driving permit: If renting a car and domestic license is not in English.
  • Health papers: Yellow Fever card if needed. Doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Hotels, flights, pre-booked tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Written list separate from mobile phone.
  • Student/senior/press IDs: For potential discounts (less common in Kingston).
  • Prescription medications in original, labeled containers. Enough for your trip.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up simplifies your travel experience in Kingston. Plan your electronics based on local power standards and communication options.

Power Requirements

  • Voltage: Jamaica operates on 110V/50Hz. Plug Type: Type A & B outlets (same as US/Canada).
  • Travelers from other regions need a Universal travel adapter. A Voltage converter may be needed if devices are not dual-voltage.
  • Mobile Phone: GSM network compatible. Unlock your Smartphone to use a local SIM card.

Communication & Tools

Local SIM cards and reliable power for your devices enhance your travel.

Essential Tech

Data & Security

Cloud Backup

Use cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox) for backing up photos and important documents (passport copies, reservations). This protects your data if your gadgets are lost or stolen. Regularly sync photos to the cloud.

Navigation Apps

Google Maps is invaluable. Download offline maps for Kingston and surrounding areas to use without internet connectivity. This is very handy for getting around.

Local Services Apps

InDriver is a popular ride-sharing app in Kingston. Uber has a more limited presence. Google Translate (download offline Jamaican Patois/English dictionary) assists with local dialect. WhatsApp is widely used for messaging.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Preparedness

Your First aid kit needs standard items and additions suitable for a tropical environment. Carry all prescription medications in their original, clearly labeled containers.

First Aid Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

The sun in Jamaica is intense, and mosquitoes carry dengue fever and chikungunya. Protection is important.

Prevention Measures

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Adaptation

  • Altitude sickness is not typically an issue within Kingston itself.
  • If planning excursions to higher elevations like the Blue Mountains range, no specific altitude meds are generally needed.
  • Stay hydrated when at higher altitudes.

Motion Sickness Solutions

  • Consider bringing Motion sickness medication (Dramamine).
  • This is specifically useful if you are sensitive to winding roads, common in mountain drives.
  • Over-the-counter options are generally fine.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Adventures

If you plan to hike extensively, notably up Blue Mountain Peak, bring appropriate gear.

Water Activities

For Lime Cay or Hellshire Beach, prepare for swimming and sun.

Miscellaneous Gear

These items make it more comfortable, security, and convenience during your trip.

  • Small notepad/pen for local phrases.
  • A Reusable shopping bag for market visits.
  • Reusable utensils for street food.
  • Small denominations of JMD for purchases.

Equipment Choices: Buy or Rent?

Advantages of Bringing Your Own

  • Own snorkel gear: Comfort and hygiene.
  • Own hiking poles: Consistent quality for treks.
  • Own action camera: Capture all moments, no rental hassle.
  • Long-term use: Investing in your own gear pays off.

Considerations for Renting

  • Rental snorkeling equipment: Quality and hygiene vary.
  • Rental hiking poles: May not suit your style.
  • Surfboards/Kayaks: Typically rented locally, transit for own is difficult.
  • Specialized gear: Limited local selection, costly to purchase.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These items contribute to a smoother and safer trip, making transit more comfortable and protecting your valuables.

Essential Additions

Eco-Friendly & Region-Specific

Reduce your environmental footprint and prepare for local specifics with these items.

Sustainable & Local Prep

  • Reusable items: A reusable water bottle for refilling and reducing plastic waste.
  • A Collapsible shopping bag for market purchases and errands.
  • Reusable utensils if planning frequent street food, reducing single-use plastic.
  • Region-specific: Specific brands of sunscreen or insect repellent you prefer, especially for sensitive skin.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic bottle use.

Market Bag

For local market purchases.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Minimizing chemical impact.

Energy Conscious

Turn off lights and AC.

Destination-Specific Items

For Kingston City

  • Small denominations of JMD for local transport and small purchases.
  • A power bank with multiple USB ports to charge several devices.
  • Offline maps downloaded to your phone for navigation.

For Outdoor Adventures

Packing Wisdom

Lay out all your clothing and gear. Consider removing 20% of clothing and adding more cash. Pack light for flexibility during your travels.

Packing cubes are great for keeping items organized and maximizing space in your luggage.

What to Pack for New Kingston. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials