Island vacations are a separate kind of enjoyment. Islands are so beautiful that they don’t need any filters or retouching. Island landscapes, bright colors and endless beaches are the perfect way to relax, get inspired and reset your head. And it’s almost impossible to remain dissatisfied with such a view, unless you’re a fan of megacities and concrete.
Many tour operators offer tours and vouchers to the islands, and as a rule, they are already all-inclusive and the traveler needs to take a minimum of everything. Unless personal belongings and first aid kit. If something is forgotten, you can buy what you need on the spot. But there is also the question of price. Islands are almost never cheap, it is rare. Therefore, it will be much more practical to bring with you.
The most necessary things that will come in handy on the island
This rule, of course, does not apply to food or some heavy things. Especially if you have a planned transfer by seaplane. Such transportation has a very limited cargo capacity. And the limits of size and weight of tourists’ luggage are clearly regulated. For example, suitcases that weigh more than 30 kg are not taken on board. Learn about the requirements of local carriers and transportation companies, and based on this form your luggage.
If you are traveling to tropical islands outside the tourist season, be prepared for unusual weather. Very often with the end of the season prices for vacations and accommodation are significantly reduced, but at such times the islands can be hit by heavy rains or cyclones. So take this into account, especially if you are planning a long vacation.
We won’t remind you how important it is not to forget tickets, passports, money and travel insurance, but let’s go through the list of things you will need on the islands.
Scuba diving or snorkeling gear
Masks, snorkels and fins are quite bulky items. And few people want to take them and so limited space in the suitcase. And often at the hotel you can rent equipment. But, firstly, it is more hygienic to use your own snorkel and mask, and secondly, the rent in the hotel is paid. And for each item you can pay about 8-10 dollars a day. And in total it will be a tangible additional expense.
Creams and repellents
Do not underestimate the different climate. Heat, tropical insects and sultry sun have a negative impact on the skin and the body as a whole. Therefore, it is worth taking care to protect yourself from such factors and not let them spoil your vacation.
Clothing
When vacationing on the islands, of course, you should give preference to light natural fabrics, in which you will be as comfortable as possible in the hot climate. But many island resorts, the same Maldives, for example, belong to Muslim countries. And even hotels may have some restrictions. Some may prohibit, for example, to appear in shorts or swimsuits in dining areas. Find out about the dress code in advance.
Swimsuits
It would seem that here can be unusual, everyone takes a swimsuit on vacation at sea. But if you plan to have active sports, diving or surfing, then you need to take not only a bikini or separate swimsuit, but also more comfortable clothes for activities. Well, and do not forget about a special suit or lycra for surfing, so as not to burn.
Electronics
Gadgets should be put in a separate item. Although many tourists go to the islands to get away from modern life, technology and cities, but the local landscapes are amazing and want to capture them. That’s why a camera, a camera with the right lenses and batteries will be useful when traveling. Also don’t forget about adapters, headphones and portable batteries, so you won’t be left without communication at the most inopportune moment.
If you have a quadcopter, check with the hotel and the government of the country you are traveling to about aerial photography. Many tourist destinations and hotels do not allow drones to be flown so as not to violate the privacy of others. Some countries may even confiscate quadcopters from travelers at the border. Penalties are usually heavy fines, but arrests are also common.
What to take to the islands for children
What to take with you on vacation with children? In addition to personal belongings and hygiene items, it is worth thinking about baby food in advance or finding exactly where on the islands sell the brands or analogs you need. And the same with diapers. According to tourists’ reviews, diapers are very expensive at hotels and it is difficult to find them. Therefore, it is better to allocate a place for them in the luggage in advance.
Also provide for possible illnesses of the child at the resort, and put the necessary risks in the insurance. Even if you go on vacation on a trip, it is better to independently check all the options of the policy, the amount of coverage and deductibles to avoid unpleasant situations.
Don’t forget about toys and entertainment for the little ones. Take small books or travel versions of games with you to keep your child occupied while traveling.
Safe vacations
Any vacation should be thoughtful and safe. This includes the islands. Even though island beaches and hotels look immaculate, there are still dangers on any trip. And that includes here.
Unfamiliar food, change of climate, exotic fruits, hot weather and various stressful situations can affect health. And here, when vacationing on islands or in distant countries, we may face the fact that it is very difficult to get to a doctor or their services are expensive. It is to avoid such situations that we insist that everyone needs good insurance.