THE ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST FOR ARUBA
Do you know what to bring to Aruba? We’ve put together a smart packing list with essentials you shouldn’t forget, like prescription drugs, your visa, a credit card and of course outfits for sunny weather. Bring these and your stay on our island will be a definite success.
SUNDRIES
For convenience and cost concerns, bring your own everyday health and beauty products with you.
In case you forget something, don’t worry! You’ll be able to find whatever you need—from sun care products to over-the-counter medications—at hotel gift shops, mini-markets, pharmacies, and grocery stores.
PRESCRIPTION DRUGS & SPECIAL HEALTH NEEDS
When packing for Aruba, don’t forget your prescription drugs. Prescriptions from doctors abroad are generally not honored at local pharmacies (boticas), which may require you to see a local doctor. Also, the specific drug that you take at home may not be available on the island.
U.S. health insurance is not accepted on Aruba. Be prepared to pay with cash or credit card at medical facilities, like a doctor’s office, pharmacy, or hospital.
Rental of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, special medical equipment, and home healthcare products are available through Labco (Tel: +297 582-6651).
APPAREL: WHAT TO WEAR IN ARUBA?
Aruba vacations are casual and comfortable, and your apparel should be the same. Weather in Aruba is pretty consistent year-round, but there are some slight differences in temperature in Aruba and precipitation from month to month. The average annual temperature is 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest months are from May through October, and the coolest months are from December through March. So, what to wear in Aruba?
Daywear
A packing list for Caribbean vacations must include bathing suits/swim trunks, flip-flops, and sandals. Water shoes will come in handy at rocky, pebbly beach areas. For sun protection, bring some sort of cover-up (pareo, rashguard, etc.), wide-brimmed hat or cap, and sunglasses. Be sure to reapply sunscreen often, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (Aruba Aloe is an excellent locally made brand sold everywhere.)
For off-road adventures, bring sturdy shoes, a hat, and a shirt with long sleeves. If you plan to do some horseback riding, consider bringing a pair of long pants.
Evening Wear
It’s a good idea to pack a light jacket, sweater, or shawl for air-conditioned restaurants and casinos, or for nights that become cool and breezy. Men might consider bringing a sports jacket and slacks, but these are absolutely optional—in Aruba, comfort is key!
PERSONAL DEVICES & INTERNET ACCESS
Wi-Fi hotspots are found at the airport, restaurants, cafés, supermarkets, beaches, and bars for Internet access with a prepaid access code or credit card—or oftentimes for free! Additionally, the Aruba Tourism Authority proudly offers free Wi-Fi zones in several areas around the island for your convenience.
Most resorts offer Wi-Fi service right on-property in public areas and/or rooms. They may also provide computers for guest use, as well as special daily rates for Internet and phone (international/local) use.
Remember to bring chargers and cables for all your devices.
PAYING FOR PURCHASES
U.S. currency, major credit cards, and traveler's checks are widely accepted on Aruba. It is a good idea to contact your credit card provider prior to departure and advise them of your travel plans. Otherwise, overseas charges may be questioned or denied.
If you’re traveling with US Dollars, Aruba currency exchange will not be necessary; however, you may receive Aruba currency as change when paying with US Dollars. Some merchants may not accept $50 bills and $100 bills due to worldwide counterfeiting. Personal checks are not accepted.
Banks are generally open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, though some branches remain open later on Friday and on Saturday morning.
ATM cards with a Cirrus, MasterCard, Maestro, or Visa logo can withdraw cash at banks and more than 50 island locations.
