What to Pack for San Juan. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Year-Round Comfort

Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. Choose light colors that reflect sunlight. Evenings remain warm, but air-conditioned indoor spaces feel cool.

Clothing Essentials

Daytime: Shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses, light skirts.
Evenings: Light long-sleeve shirt, thin cardigan, or Shawl for indoor comfort.
Rain: Lightweight rain jacket or small umbrella; quick-drying clothes.

Cultural & Activity Attire

San Juan has a generally casual and relaxed dress code. Beachwear suits beaches and the poolside. For churches or religious sites, modest dress shows respect (shoulders and knees covered).

Specific Dress Needs

Hiking: Moisture-wicking clothes, sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip.
Swimming: Multiple Swimsuits, cover-ups, Rash guard for Sun protection.
Fine Dining: Smart casual attire.

Footwear for Every Step

Urban Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals are essential for Old San Juan's uneven cobblestone streets.

Cobblestone-ready footwear.

Beach & Pool

Flip-flops, sandals, or Water shoes are perfect for sandy areas and defend against rocky shores.

Water-friendly and easy-to-wear.

Hiking & Trails

Hiking sandals or Closed-toe hiking shoes with good traction for rainforest trails.

Grip and support for damp weather.

Essential Travel Documents

Useful Papers for Your Journey

Keeping your important documents organized and secure is a cornerstone of smooth travel. Prepare both physical and digital copies.

Passport and Visa Papers (U.S. Citizens: photo ID; Non-U.S. Citizens: passport, U.S. Visa, or ESTA).
Travel Insurance Policy Information (copies with policy number and emergency contacts).
International Driving Permit (if applicable, for non-U.S. Licenses).
Vaccination Records and Health Documentation (doctor's note for prescriptions).

Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations (flights, accommodations, car rentals, tours).
Emergency Contact Information (family, friends, embassy/consulate).
Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable).
Keep documents in a secure, easily accessible Travel wallet or pouch during travel.

Tech & Electronics Essentials

Power & Connectivity

Puerto Rico uses U.S. Standard electricity: 120 volts, 60 Hz, with Type A and B outlets. U.S. Mainland travelers need no adapter. International travelers need a Universal travel adapter and potentially a Voltage converter.

Mobile & Camera

Mobile Phone: U.S. Carriers have coverage; local prepaid SIMs from Claro/Liberty.
Camera: Standard Travel camera gear, Waterproof camera or Case for beach/rainforest.
Power: Portable chargers for long sightseeing days.

Apps & Data Security

Modern travel entails a range of electronics. Plan for their power needs and connectivity in San Juan. Download offline maps for San Juan on your phone before you arrive to save data.

Recommended Apps

Navigation: Google Maps or Waze.
Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available.
Translation: Google Translate for basic communication.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Regularly back up photos and documents to cloud storage.

External Hard Drive

Consider an External hard drive for additional backup of significant data.

Protect Information

This safeguards your memories and information in case of device loss or damage.

Health & Wellness Pack

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit results in you ready for minor ailments and specific tropical concerns.

Kit Contents

First Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen), Anti-diarrhea medication (Loperamide), allergy medication, Hydrocortisone cream.
Prescription Medications: Original containers, doctor's note for controlled substances.
Over-the-Counter: Remedies for headaches, stomach upset, colds, motion sickness.

Sun & Insect Protection

San Juan's tropical sun and insects require specific protection. Pack high SPF, reef-safe sunscreen and strong insect repellent.

Tropical Essentials

Sunscreen: High SPF (30+), reef-safe. Reapply often.
Insect Repellent: A Strong repellent (with DEET or picaridin) for evenings and natural areas.
Water Purification: Reusable water bottle with a filter for peace of mind.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude

Altitude sickness is not a concern in San Juan.
The Island of enchantment's elevations are not high enough to induce it.
Focus instead on sun protection and hydration.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness remedies are useful for boat excursions.
Bring your preferred remedy from home.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

For trips to El Yunque or other natural areas.

Sturdy, Waterproof hiking shoes or sandals with good grip.
Light Backpack for water and snacks.
Rain jacket.
Moisture-wicking clothing.

Snorkeling & Water Sports

For exploring San Juan's clear waters.

Goggles, snorkel, and fins (rentals available).
Rash guard for sun protection.
Swimwear, quick-drying fabrics.
Water shoes for rocky shores.

Beach Day Essentials

Relaxing by the ocean or pool.

Beach towel.
Sun hat and sunglasses.
Sunscreen (reef-safe).
Book or e-reader.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Consider Bringing

Your own well-fitting snorkel masks or unique gear you prefer.
Personal Travel gear (backpacks, hiking boots if specific).
Specialty items not widely available for rent.
High-quality gear that makes a significant difference in your enjoyment.

Consider Renting Locally

Snorkel gear: widely available at beaches and tour operators.
Surfboards/Paddleboards: available at many beach locations.
Kayaks: rentals at Condado Lagoon and water activity centers.
Heavy or bulky equipment: often more down-to-earth to rent.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small additions make a significant difference in comfort and security during your trip.

Travel Smart

Comfort: Neck pillow, Eye mask, Earplugs for flights/drives.
Security: Small padlock for luggage, Money belt, RFID-blocking wallet.
Storage: A small, Waterproof dry bag protects electronics at the beach.
Laundry: A separate small bag for dirty clothes.

Eco-Friendly & Personal Items

Opt for reusable items to minimize waste and ensure you have personal essentials.

Sustainable Travel

Reusable Water Bottle: Stays hydrated, reduces plastic waste.
Reusable Shopping Bag: Useful for market visits or souvenirs.
Reusable Utensils: Consider if you plan to have a meal much street food.
Specialized Brands: Bring specific toiletries or dietary snacks not simple to discover locally.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Handy for markets and souvenirs.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Minimize environmental impact.

Solar Charger

Charge devices with green energy.

Destination-Specific Reminders

General Tropical Needs

Light, breathable clothing for tropical climate.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for intense sun.
Bug spray for evenings and natural areas.

San Juan Specific

Good walking footwear for Old San Juan's cobblestones.
Light rain jacket or umbrella for equatorial showers.
Waterproof camera for beach days and El Yunque.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack clothes that mix and match easily. This lets you create multiple outfits with fewer items. It saves space in your luggage and offers versatility for different activities.

Consider rolling your clothes tightly to maximize space and minimize wrinkles.

What to Pack for San Juan