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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Eastern Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Lightweight, breathable fabrics form the basis of your wardrobe. Materials like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics perform well in high heat and humidity. These fabrics circulate air and dry quickly. Pack plenty of shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses, and Swimsuits.

Layering & Evening Wear:

  • Evenings: A light long-sleeved shirt or Light jacket provides comfort against air conditioning or mosquitoes.
  • Rainy Season (May-November): A lightweight, packable Rain jacket or poncho is useful.
  • Daypack: Choose one that folds down compactly for easy carrying in a Daypack.

Activity-Specific Attire

Comfortable attire for various activities ensures you can fully enjoy all Vieques has to offer.

Specific Clothing Needs:

Footwear Recommendations

Casual Comfort

Sandals and flip-flops are essential for beach use, pool areas, and casual wear around your accommodation.

Ideal for relaxing days.

Water Protection

Highly Water shoes are for rocky beach entries and protection from coral, rocks, and sea urchins. Aqua shoes are also good.

Safeguard your feet in the water.

Urban & Light Trails

Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for exploring towns, light hikes, or navigating terminals. Break them in before your trip.

Comfort for exploring.

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Paperwork

Careful organization of your travel documents helps avoid delays and promotes peace of mind. Keep both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport & Visa: U.S. Citizens need valid photo ID. International visitors require a valid passport with U.S. Visa or ESTA.
  • Travel Insurance: Bring printed and digital copies of your Travel insurance policy details.
  • International Driving Permit: Recommended if your license is not in English and you plan to rent a car. IDP on Amazon.
  • Vaccination Records: While not required, useful for medical professionals in an emergency.
  • Reservations: Keep printed and digital copies of all flight, ferry, hotel, car, and tour bookings.
  • Emergency Contacts: Prepare a list of family, friends, doctor, and embassy contact information.
  • Discount IDs: Bring any relevant student, senior, or press identification for potential savings.
  • Prescription Docs: Carry documentation for all prescription medications.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Vieques uses the same electrical outlets and voltage as the continental United States (Type A and B plugs, 110-120 volts, 60 Hz). U.S. travelers will not need adapters. International travelers may need a Power adapter or Voltage converter, or a Universal travel adapter if devices use different plug types or voltage.

Mobile Phones & Charging:

Camera & Data

Capturing memories on Vieques means considering camera needs and data backup. A Waterproof camera like a GoPro is highly recommended for water activities. B&H Photo has equipment (Bhphotovideo.com).

Recommended Gear & Backup:

  • Standard digital camera or your Smartphone works for general sightseeing.
  • Apps: Download offline maps (Google Maps) and translation tools (Google Translate).
  • Backup: Regularly back up photos to cloud storage. An External hard drive or USB stick provides physical backup.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Regularly back up photos and important documents to services like Google Drive or Dropbox.

Physical Backup

An External hard drive or USB stick serves as an additional physical backup for memories.

Data Protection

This protects your data in case of device loss or damage, ensuring your memories are safe.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit promotes readiness for common travel ailments and the specific environmental factors of Vieques.

Essential Supplies:

Medications & Sun Protection

Bring a sufficient supply of all prescription medications in original, labeled containers. Carry a copy of the prescription or a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances. Also, bring remedies for common travel issues like heartburn/indigestion relief, motion sickness pills, and cold/flu remedies.

Sun & Insect Protection:

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies are relevant for ferry crossings to Vieques, as waters can be choppy.
  • Consider non-drowsy options if you plan to be active upon arrival.

No Altitude Sickness

  • Vieques is a low-lying island.
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern for visitors here.
  • Focus on heat and humidity precautions instead.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling Essentials

While rentals are available, bringing your own Snorkeling mask and snorkel set ensures a proper fit and personal hygiene.

  • Fins, being bulkier, often have local rental options.
  • A Dry bag safeguards electronics during water activities.
  • A light, quick-drying Beach towel is practical.
  • Consider a waterproof phone case.

Kayaking & Water Sports

For Bioluminescent Bay tours or exploring calm coves, a dry bag for valuables is indispensable.

  • Kayaks and paddleboards are typically part of Bio Bay tours.
  • Many beaches also rent kayaks.
  • Bring a waterproof camera for aquatic shots.
  • A wide-brimmed hat safeguards from sun glare.

General Exploration Gear

A small, submersible flashlight or Headlamp is useful for walking at night or navigating poorly lit areas after a Bio Bay tour.

  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing in the refuge.
  • A map of Vieques (physical or downloaded offline).
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Small snacks for beach days.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Items to Bring:

  • Snorkeling mask and snorkel for comfort and hygiene.
  • Water shoes for rocky entries.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Insect repellent.

Items to Rent:

  • Fins (bulky to pack).
  • Kayaks/paddleboards (often part of Bio Bay tours).
  • Bicycles and scooters.
  • Jeeps (essential for accessing many beaches).

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items, while not specific to a single activity, contribute significantly to comfort, security, and convenience throughout your Vieques journey.

Personal Comfort:

Environmentally Conscious Choices

Sustainable Travel Items:

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste and keeps you hydrated.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For groceries and souvenirs.

Small Cooler/Insulated Bag

For drinks and snacks on remote beaches.

Reusable Utensil Set

Minimizes plastic fork/spoon use for street food.

Items Difficult or Expensive to Purchase Locally

Specific Brands:

  • Specific brands of sun protection.
  • Specific brands of insect repellent.
  • If you have particular preferences or sensitivities, bring these items from home.

Specialty Items:

  • Consider bringing your preferred snacks or energy bars.
  • Especially if you have dietary restrictions.
  • Specialty items might be harder to find locally.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light for ease of movement between flights and ferries.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.