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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Northern Mariana Islands

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Saipan's tropical climate means lightweight, breathable fabrics are your top choice. Materials like cotton, linen, or quick-dry synthetics are ideal, as they handle humidity and dry quickly after a sudden shower or swim.

Year-Round & Daytime Attire

  • Pack shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses, and Swimwear for daytime.
  • For evenings, light shirts, casual pants, or dresses. A Light jacket might be useful for air-conditioned interiors.
  • Wear modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting churches or local government buildings.

Activity-Specific Attire

Having the right clothing for your activities makes your experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Specialized Clothing Needs

  • Hiking: Lightweight, moisture-wicking activewear.
  • Swimming/Water Sports: Multiple Swimsuits. A rash guard for Sun protection, consider a Speedo Rashguard.
  • Formal Events: Smart casual to resort elegant attire for upscale dining.

Footwear Recommendations

General Wear

Comfortable Sandals, flip-flops, or breathable walking shoes are perfect for daily wear around towns and resorts.

Easy Walking

Beach & Water

Water shoes or reef booties are highly recommended. They protect feet from rocky beaches, sharp coral, and sea urchins. Check Speedo Surfwalker.

Water Protection

Hiking

Sturdy walking shoes or light Hiking sandals give good support and traction for trails, especially to The Grotto or Forbidden Island.

Trail Grip

Required Travel Documents

Document Checklist

Keeping both physical and digital copies of important documents is a wise practice for travel. This ensures smooth transitions and provides backup in unforeseen circumstances.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry valid passport, visa, or ESTA.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Physical and digital copies, including emergency contacts.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): Advisable if your domestic license is not in English.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Copies of medical records, medication list, doctor's notes.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Hotels, flights, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Family, friends, embassy/consulate.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable): Carry relevant identification.
  • For a rental car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is useful.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Plan your electronics to stay connected and capture your Saipan memories. Consider power needs and device protection for a seamless experience.

Essential Tech

Camera & Apps

High visibility water makes an action camera a top consideration.

Photography & Digital Tools

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage for photos and important documents. This protects your memories and information in case of device loss or damage.

Physical Backups

Keep physical and digital copies of documents separate. A small USB drive for critical files is a good idea.

Device Protection

Consider durable cases for phones and cameras. Water and dust resistance are valuable in Saipan's environment.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked health and wellness kit helps you manage minor issues and stay healthy during your trip. Focus on items suited for a tropical environment.

Essential Supplies

Sun & Insect Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun and insects is important for comfort and safety in Saipan's tropical setting. High-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must for skin protection and reef preservation.

Climate-Specific Protection

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness Remedies

  • While Saipan lacks high altitudes, Motion sickness remedies are helpful for boat trips.
  • Bumpy car rides on unpaved roads can also trigger motion sickness.

Water Purification Options

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling/Diving Gear

While rentals are available, bringing your own Snorkel Set (mask, snorkel, fins) brings comfort and hygiene. This also makes certain a good fit, which elevates the experience.

  • Personal mask and snorkel for hygiene.
  • Fins for better propulsion.
  • Consider a GoPro or similar for photos.
  • Rent diving tanks and BCDs locally.

Hiking Essentials

For exploring Saipan's trails, some items enhance your comfort and safety. A small daypack holds water and other necessities, while proper footwear ensures grip and stability.

  • A Small daypack for water and snacks.
  • Hiking shoes or sturdy walking sandals.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing.

Beach & Water Protection

Time at Saipan's beautiful beaches requires specific items for comfort and protection. A dry bag protects valuables from water and sand, and appropriate footwear shields your feet.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Good to Bring

  • Personal snorkel gear: Masks, snorkels, and fins often fit better and are more hygienic if owned.
  • Multiple swimsuits: Quick-drying Swimwear is important in a tropical climate.
  • Hiking shoes: If planning to explore trails, proper footwear is valuable.
  • Underwater camera: For capturing marine life, personal cameras are often preferred.

Good to Rent

  • Diving tanks and BCDs: Unless you are an avid diver with specific equipment.
  • Jet skis and kayaks: Readily available at popular beach areas.
  • Surfboards: If a quick surf session is desired, rentals are easy to find.
  • Large umbrellas or beach chairs: Many vendors rent these directly on the beach.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Security & Comfort

Beyond clothing and gadgets, a few additional items greatly enhance your travel experience. These items contribute to both your security and overall comfort during your trip.

Extras

Eco-Friendly & Unique Items

Choosing reusable items lessens environmental impact and saves money. Additionally, certain region-specific items enhance your experience unique to Saipan's environment.

Sustainable & Saipan-Specific

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Help reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Useful for markets or souvenir shopping.
  • Reusable Utensil Set: Helpful for street food or picnics.
  • Sun Umbrella/Parasol: For shade on beaches or when walking.

Items Difficult to Find Locally

Specialty Items

Specific brands of personal care products or unique snacks.

Dietary Foods

Specific dietary foods or allergy-friendly options.

Certain Electronics

Specific electronic accessories or specialized devices.

Aloe Vera

For sunburn relief, even with careful sun protection.

Destination-Specific Items

Ocean & Water Activities

  • Personal snorkel gear for comfort and hygiene.
  • Water shoes or reef booties to protect feet from coral and rocks.
  • Underwater camera for capturing marine life.

Island Exploration & Comfort

  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing for humid conditions.
  • Wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Basic first aid kit and personal medications.

Packing Pro Tips:

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings and compress items further.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase. Keep liquids in clear, sealed bags to avoid spills. Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane to reduce luggage weight.