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    Aruba Packing List: What to Pack (And What to Leave Home)

    Everything you need for a trip to Aruba, and nothing you don't. Aruba is casual, hot, and beach-focused. Pack accordingly.

    April 2026·6 min read·By Hermanos Car Rental

    Aruba is one of the easiest destinations to pack for. The weather is predictably hot and sunny (28–32°C year-round), the dress code is almost universally casual, and you'll spend most of your time in swimwear. The main mistake first-timers make is over-packing, leaving room in your luggage is the right call, because you'll want space for Aruban aloe products on the way back.

    One thing that surprises people: reef-safe sunscreen is genuinely important here. The reefs around Aruba are under pressure, and chemical sunscreens are harmful to coral. Switch to mineral sunscreen for this trip, your skin will be fine, the reef will thank you.

    👕 Clothing

    ✓
    Lightweight t-shirts and tops (×5–7): Cotton or linen, synthetics feel hot
    ✓
    Shorts or light trousers (×3): Smart casual for nicer restaurants
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    One smart-casual outfit: Some restaurants have dress codes
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    Light cardigan or long-sleeve layer: For air-conditioned restaurants and evening breezes
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    Swimwear (×2): Two sets, one dries while you wear the other
    ✓
    Cover-up or sarong: For beach-to-restaurant transitions

    👟 Footwear

    ✓
    Flip flops or sandals: For beach and casual use
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    Comfortable walking shoes: For Arikok National Park and town
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    Water shoes (optional): Useful for rocky beach entries

    🏖️ Sun & Beach

    ✓
    Reef-safe mineral sunscreen (SPF 50+): Zinc oxide based, essential for coral protection
    ✓
    Polarized sunglasses: Aruba is very bright
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    Wide-brim hat: The sun is intense, more than you expect
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    Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated, easy to underestimate in the heat
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    Beach bag: Waterproof preferred
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    Snorkeling mask: Bring your own, rentals work but fit better with your own

    📋 Documents & Money

    ✓
    Valid passport (6+ months remaining): Required
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    Return flight ticket (printed or digital): May be requested at immigration
    ✓
    Hotel confirmation: Required for entry
    ✓
    Travel insurance documents: Strongly recommended
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    Driving licence: If renting a car
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    Credit card (in your name): Required for car rental deposit
    ✓
    USD cash ($100–200): For local spots, tips, and vendors

    📱 Tech & Practical

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    Phone + charger: US plug works, same 110V as Aruba
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    Portable power bank: Long beach days drain batteries
    ✓
    Waterproof phone case or pouch: For boat trips and beach swimming
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    Downloaded offline maps (Google Maps / Maps.me): Mobile signal can be patchy off-road
    ✓
    Underwater camera or GoPro: Optional but the snorkeling is worth capturing

    💊 Health & Pharmacy

    ✓
    Prescription medication (sufficient supply): Bring more than you need
    ✓
    After-sun lotion: Aloe vera, preferably Aruban aloe (it's famous here)
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    Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are present, especially near mangroves
    ✓
    Seasickness tablets: If doing boat trips
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    Basic first aid kit: Plasters, antiseptic, for hikes in Arikok

    🚫 What to leave at home

    ✗
    Formal clothes: Almost nowhere requires it
    ✗
    Heavy jacket: A light cardigan is sufficient
    ✗
    Chemical sunscreen (oxybenzone/octinoxate): Bad for reefs, switch to mineral
    ✗
    Hair dryer: Hotels provide them, and the trade winds dry everything anyway
    ✗
    Physical currency other than USD: Euros and GBP are not accepted in shops

    One thing most people forget to book

    A rental car. More than half of Aruba's best beaches, restaurants, and attractions are unreachable without one. Book before you fly, cars sell out in high season. Free airport pickup included.

    See cars from $46/day

    Frequently asked questions

    What should I pack for Aruba?

    Aruba is hot, sunny, and casual. Pack light clothing (linen, cotton), swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen (very important, chemical sunscreen is harmful to coral), a light layer for air-conditioned restaurants, comfortable sandals, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Don't over-pack, the island's vibe is relaxed and informal.

    Do I need to bring cash to Aruba?

    Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Aruba accept credit cards. However, local spots like Zeerovers fish shack, roadside pastechi vendors, and small market stalls are cash only. Bring some USD cash for these situations, around $100–200 for a week-long trip is usually sufficient.

    Do I need reef-safe sunscreen in Aruba?

    Yes, and it matters. Chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are harmful to coral reefs. Aruba's reefs are already under stress from climate change. Use mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide based) wherever possible, especially when snorkeling or swimming near coral. Some beaches in the Caribbean have banned chemical sunscreen entirely.

    What documents do I need for Aruba?

    You need: a valid passport (check it has 6+ months validity remaining), your return flight ticket, and proof of accommodation. If renting a car, bring your national driving licence and a credit card in your name. US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check your country's requirements before travelling.

    Related guides

    First Time in Aruba: Complete Guide →Best Time to Visit Aruba →Do You Need a Car in Aruba? →Car Rental FAQ →