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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Caribbean Coast, Nicaragua

Clothing Recommendations

Prioritize lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or quick-dry synthetics. These materials assist in staying cool and dry in the heat and humidity.

Layering & Sun Protection

  • A light long-sleeved shirt or sarong provides sun protection and mosquito defense.
  • A Lightweight rain jacket or Poncho works during the wet season, but quick-dry clothes are often enough for passing showers.
  • Multiple Swimsuits or board shorts are suitable for swimming.

Cultural & Activity Attire

The Corn Islands maintain a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Swimwear is appropriate for beaches and water activities.

Dress Code & Specifics

  • Outside of beaches, casual wear is standard. No strict modesty rules.
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals are good for paths and beaches.
  • A Rash guard provides sun protection and warmth in the water.

Footwear Recommendations

Everyday Wear

Sandals or flip-flops are essential for daily wear on the beach and around town.

Live in these.

Water Activities

Water shoes or aqua Socks for rocky beaches or tide pools. They protect from coral and sharp shells.

Good for protection.

Exploring Trails

Lightweight Sneakers or Hiking sandals for paths and trails on Big Corn Island.

Good for walking paths.

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Carry both original and copies of important papers.

  • Original passport (valid 6 months beyond departure).
  • Printed and digital copies of passport and visa.
  • Travel insurance policy details and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting a scooter on Big Corn.
  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if required.
  • List of prescription medications (generic names, dosages).
  • Printed and digital copies of flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact information for family and embassy/consulate.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Power reliability may vary on the islands, especially Little Corn. Plan your electronics accordingly.

Electrical Needs

  • Nicaragua uses Type A and B outlets (North American standard), 120V at 60Hz.
  • A Universal travel adapter is suitable for different standards.
  • Most modern smartphones are compatible with Nicaraguan GSM networks (Claro or Tigo SIM cards available).

Gadgets & Apps

Portable chargers are very useful for potential power outages or limited outlet access.

Digital Essentials

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage for photos and important documents to protect against loss or damage.

Physical Backups

Consider external hard drives or USB sticks for critical data, stored separately from devices.

Security Software

Consider a VPN service such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Preparedness

A well-stocked Personal first aid kit is recommended for any trip to a remote destination.

Kit Contents

Tropical Health Essentials

Protection from sun and insects is specifically relevant for the island climate.

Climate-Specific Items

Specialized Remedies & Hygiene

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication or wristbands for boat transfers between islands.
  • Consider for other boat tours around the islands.
  • Pack what you normally use for nausea.

Personal Hygiene

  • Basic toiletries are present, but specific brands or specialty items may not be.
  • Pack your preferred shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel-sized toiletry bottles may save space.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling/Diving Gear

Gear rental is possible on the islands.

Photography Gear

  • An Underwater camera for marine life.
  • Compact digital camera or smartphone for general photography.
  • Extra memory cards for photos and videos.
  • Portable power bank for charging devices.

Island Specifics

Certain items may greatly enhance your comfort and ease on the Corn Islands.

  • A Headlamp or Small flashlight for unlit paths at night.
  • A travel-sized first aid kit.
  • Personal floatation device if preferred for snorkeling.
  • Light tackle if you have preferred fishing gear.

Equipment Considerations

Items to Rent Typically

  • Scuba diving equipment (tanks, BCDs, regulators) from reputable dive shops.
  • Fishing gear from local operators.
  • Scooters or golf carts on Big Corn Island.
  • Bicycles on Big Corn Island.

Items to Bring Generally Preferred

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items enhance your comfort and security during travel and daily island life.

Enhancing Your Trip

Reusable & Entertainment

These items contribute to responsible travel and provide leisure during downtime.

Sustainable & Leisure Items

Hard-to-Find & Essential Cash

Cash Currency

Carry enough USD in small denominations, specifically for Little Corn Island lacking ATMs.

Specialized Sunscreen

Reef-safe varieties are difficult to purchase locally.

Specific Medications

Certain prescription medications or high-quality repellents may not be available.

Tech Accessories

Some tech accessories may be expensive or hard to find. Bring from home.

Region-Specific Essentials

Island Comforts

  • Books or an e-reader for relaxation on the beach or during downtime.
  • Playing cards or small travel games for evenings or rainy spells.
  • Cash, especially in small USD denominations.

Travel Logistics

  • High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen.
  • High-quality insect repellent.
  • Portable charger for electronics.

Packing Smart

Limit luggage to a manageable size, especially if traveling to Little Corn Island, which requires a boat transfer and walking. A backpack may be more convenient than a rolling suitcase.

Consider packing cubes for organization and space saving.