Suit Yourself

Whether you have an extended stay planned, or you are just heading to Curacao for a few days, packing your suit case is an important part of planning your trip. 

Packing can be stressful for some people, but when you follow a few tips laid out by travel experts, you'll find that you have everything you need for a successful trip packed quickly and without worry.

First and Foremost

Curacao's visitors must present not only a valid passport, but either a voters registration card or a birth certificate to customs officials in order to enter the country.  Not only should you keep these documents on your person as you travel into the country, but you should make copies and keep them in a separate location just in case they are lost of stolen. 

Another important item to keep with you is money.  Sure, credit cards are the preferred method of payment for traveler's but there are instances (such as if they credit card machine is down) where cash will be necessary.  In Curacao, the official form of currency is the Netherland Antilles guiler (also known as the Flourin), and you can exchange your money in the airport, or at any bank on the island.

A few other documents to keep on hand include your prescription slip for your medications, a list of emergency contacts, your airline tickets, confirmation or your hotel and rental car, and any paperwork you need regarding your pre-arranged activities.

Clothing

Casual but clean is the mantra for clothing in Curacao.  You'll also want to choose items that are comfortable and airy.  As you tour the island, you'll want to wear clothing that is light colored, to detract from the suns rays, and light-weight so that you are not overheated and uncomfortable.  Natural fabrics tend to be the most breathable, such as cottons and silks.  T-shirts and tank tops paired with linen shorts are the most commonly chosen items by vacationers, with comfortable athletic shoes or hiking boots, of course.

A few other items of clothes you won't want to forget include undergarments and socks.

Formal Wear

For a night out at a fancy restaurant, a business meeting, or an event that you plan to attend, you may want to pack an outfit that leans more towards the formal side.  For men, this could be a collared shirt and slacks with some nice dress shoes, or perhaps a sports coat and tie.  Women will find that cocktail dresses, nice sun dresses, or a pant suit with the appropriate shoes and accessories will fit the bill.

Swim Wear

Swim wear is one of the most important things you'll pack in your luggage!  We suggest that you not only pack on swimsuit, but two.  This will give you options, and allow you to leave one hanging to dry in your hotel room while you wear the other.

Be aware that in Curacao, it is not acceptable to walk around outside of the beach or pool area in your swim wear.  For this reason, you should pack a cover-up of some sort, such as a sarong or a large t-shirt.  Don't forget sandals to protect your feet from the hot sand, and sunglasses and a hat to protect your head and eyes from the hot sun. 

Toiletries and Health Care

Toiletry items that you use on a daily basis are items that you will probably want to bring with you to Curacao.  Most hotels will offer basic toiletries, but if you want what you are familiar with, consider purchasing them in travel sizes and packing them in your toiletries back.  These may include hair and dental hygiene care products, as well as deodorant.  You also have the option of purchasing them yourself when you arrive in Curacao.

Medications should also be packed along with your toiletries, next to a slip from your doctor.   You may also want to protect yourself from mosquitoes and a few other bugs that bites with a daily application of bug spray.  Bring bug repellent along with hydrocortisone cream or Benadryl to relieve you of the itchiness that comes if a bug does end up biting you.

What Else To Pack

Curacao is one of the driest country's in the Caribbean.  What does this mean for your packing?  It mens that you may be able to get away with not packing a rain jacket, poncho, or umbrella, unless you want to be extra cautious.  What you should pack is a sweater or wrap to throw on in the evening when temperatures drop a few degrees.

Most people like to bring a few entertainment items along to keep then occupied during their downtime.  A mp3 player, a book or e-reader, a portable DVD player, hand-held game system, laptop, and deck of cards are all options.  You will also want to make sure you have the necessary amount of batteries to keep your electronics up and running, as well as  the appropriate adapters for your chargers.

Your camera and its accessories (including an extra memory card) is something you definitely won't wan to forget to pack.

Packing Concerns

With airlines charging for suitcases that are over a certain weight limit, you want to make sure you pack luggage that has everything you need, but is not overly stuffed.  There is a simple packing trick you can use to ensure you have enough clothing to get you through your Curacao trip, but will keep your packing to a minimum.  Try only packing items that are interchangeable.  For example, several t-shirts that compliment each other and can be layered in different ways provide a new look for each day of the week, and a pair of linen shorts might last you a few days with a few different tops if kept reasonably clean.

You may also worry about the airline losing your luggage.  While this is talked about more than it actually happens, you can be proactive in making sure you are protected in case this happened.  Pack a carry on bag with one full outfit, a swim suit, and any important documents.  This will make sure you're covered while the airline looks for your luggage, or until you have time to go shopping for a few new things.

Check List

With these items properly packed, you will have everything you need to comfortably get through your vacation in Curacao.