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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

US Virgin Islands

Season-Specific Clothing

Lightweight, breathable fabrics are optimal. Materials like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics help manage heat and humidity.

Daily Wear

  • Daytime: shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses.
  • Multiple swimsuits or board shorts.
  • Evenings: light long pants or maxi dress, light long-sleeved shirt (mosquito protection).

Cultural Dress Code

St. John maintains a very casual atmosphere. Swimwear is for beaches and pools.

Modesty Guidance

  • When leaving beach areas, cover-ups over swimsuits are expected.
  • Walking around Cruz Bay or Coral Bay in just a swimsuit is generally inappropriate.
  • Religious sites: modest attire (covered shoulders, longer shorts/skirts).

Footwear

General Wear

Sandals, flip-flops, and comfortable walking sandals (like Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal) are good for daily use around towns and resorts.

Choose options with good arch support for extensive walking.

Beaches & Water Activities

Water shoes are highly recommended. Many beaches have rocky entries or coral fragments. Sea urchins are present in some areas.

Water shoes protect your feet when walking on coral or rocky surfaces.

Hiking

Closed-toe shoes with good traction are for the island's often steep and rocky trails.

Trail shoes or light hiking boots are recommended; avoid open-toed sandals.

Essential Documents

Passport & Visa

Careful organization of your documents helps prevent travel disruptions. Keep physical and digital copies.

  • U.S. Citizens: U.S. Passport strongly recommended for identification and BVI day trips.
  • U.S. Citizens: Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license) suffices for air travel from mainland U.S.
  • Non-U.S. Citizens: Valid passport (6 months validity beyond departure).
  • Non-U.S. Citizens: U.S. Visa or ESTA authorization.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Printed and digital copies with emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable).
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation (doctor's note for medications).
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations (flights, accommodation, tours).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Phone

The U.S. Virgin Islands use the same electrical outlets (Type A and B, two or three flat pins) and voltage (120V, 60Hz) as the continental United States.

Compatibility

  • U.S. Travelers: no adapter or converter is needed.
  • International travelers: power adapter is needed if devices use different plug types or voltages.
  • Major U.S. Carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) provide coverage and treat it as domestic service.

Cameras & Chargers

Capture stunning landscapes and underwater moments.

Equipment

  • Waterproof camera (like a GoPro HERO12 Black) for high-quality underwater photos and videos.
  • A compact digital camera or smartphone suffices for general sightseeing.
  • Portable power banks keep devices charged on the go.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) to back up photos and important documents.

Device Protection

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

Mobile Apps

Download offline maps (Google Maps), weather apps, airline apps, and messaging apps (WhatsApp).

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit Contents

A well-stocked personal health kit for comfort and readiness for minor issues.

Essentials

  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone cream.
  • Adhesive bandages (various sizes), antiseptic wipes or hand sanitizer.
  • Allergy medication (antihistamines), moleskin or blister pads.

Medications

Carry all prescription medications in their original, labeled containers. Bring enough for your entire trip plus a few extra days.

Carry With You

  • Copy of your prescription or a doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Over-the-counter medications for common issues: antacids, anti-diarrhea, cold/flu remedies.
  • Motion sickness medication (e.g., Dramamine) for boat trips.

Insect Repellent & Sun Protection

Insect Repellent

  • A strong insect repellent with Picaridin or DEET.
  • Mosquitos and "no-see-ums" are prevalent, especially at dawn, dusk, and in humid areas.
  • Consider treating clothing with Permethrin for added protection.

Sun Protection

  • High SPF reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based, non-oxybenzone, non-octinoxate) is required by USVI law.
  • A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection.
  • A UPF 50+ rash guard for prolonged water exposure.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling

Bring your own snorkel mask, snorkel, and fins for comfort and hygiene.

  • A Cressi Snorkeling Scuba Equipment Set is a popular choice for personal use.
  • Rent larger items like fins if you do not wish to pack them.
  • A dry bag protects your phone, wallet, and other valuables.
  • A small, quick-drying towel.

Hiking

Gear that enhances your planned activities and comfort.

  • A small daypack for water, snacks, and a light jacket.
  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must.
  • A reusable water bottle is essential.
  • A small, quick-drying towel.

Kayaking/Paddleboarding

Protect your valuables from water damage while on the water.

  • A dry bag is a good investment for your phone, wallet, and other valuables.
  • Water shoes for rocky entries.
  • A rash guard for sun protection.
  • A waterproof phone pouch.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Bring From Home

  • Small, personal items like your own snorkel mask for comfort and hygiene.
  • Water shoes, rash guards, and dry bags are generally better to bring.
  • These items are often more comfortable and reliable if you own them.
  • Save money on daily rentals.

Rent Locally

  • Larger items like fins (if you prefer not to pack them).
  • Kayaks, paddleboards, and full scuba gear are readily available for rent.
  • Local outfitters in Cruz Bay and at popular beaches like Maho and Cinnamon Bay.
  • Renting saves luggage space.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to comfort, security, and convenience throughout your trip.

Personal Comfort & Security

  • Travel neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs for flights.
  • A money belt or RFID-blocking wallet for secure documents and cash.
  • Small luggage locks add a layer of security to your bags.
  • Reusable insulated water bottle, shopping bag, and travel utensil set.

Region-Specific Items

Essential items unique to the St. John experience.

St. John Essentials

  • A microfiber travel towel is quick-drying and compact for beach visits.
  • A waterproof phone pouch protects your phone at the beach or on boat trips.
  • Specific brands or specialty toiletries might be limited or more expensive locally.
  • Pack adequate supplies of any personal care items or specialty foods you use regularly.

Sustainability & Preparation

Water Bottle

Reusable water bottle for hydration, less plastic waste.

Shopping Bag

Reusable shopping bag for groceries or souvenirs.

Utensil Set

Reusable travel utensil set for street food or picnics.

Digital Copies

Cloud storage for photos and important documents.

Destination Specific Items

Beach & Water Activities

  • Wide-brimmed hat.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Swim shoes for rocky entries.

General Comfort & Safety

  • Insect repellent.
  • Small personal first-aid kit.
  • Local emergency contact numbers.

Packing Insight

John trip.

Focus on light, quick-drying clothing and prepare for sun and water activities.

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