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17 Top Jamaican Honeymoon Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

jamaican honeymoon packing list
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Jamaica is a country, an island, and a paradise! Located just a two-hour flight from the mainland US in the Caribbean, Jamaica has mountains, waterfalls, cliffs, natural harbors, and of course, magnificent beaches and resorts.

Home of reggae music, jerk chicken, and award-winning rum, Jamaica is a great destination for your honeymoon. With so many different options of what to do there, it can be difficult to know what to pack for this type of trip. Luckily, we have experience traveling in Jamaica and can help you out. Below, you’ll find the top 17 things to pack for a Jamaican Honeymoon, as well as what to wear while in Jamaica, and some FAQs about visiting this island paradise.

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What to Pack for a Jamaican Honeymoon – 17 Essentials

  • 1. Water Shoes

    Hopefully your Jamaican Honeymoon will include some beach time, and possibly other water activities like kayaking, SUP, or snorkeling. These water shoes will protect your feet during all kinds of outdoor activities, but still look cute if you need to stop somewhere for a quick lunch. I love that they are slip on, but still fit and feel like a sneaker so they provide more protection and traction.

    Water Shoes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    When you want to pack a quick bag for a day out adventuring and don’t have room for a bulky towel, this quick dry microfiber option is fantastic. It takes up very little room in your beach bag or backpack, but absorbs just as much water and dries ten times faster than a regular towel. I like to throw one in our suitcase for each person, since they pack up so small.

    HERO Travel Towel - Blue

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    If you plan to work, do banking, or just want to protect yourself and your privacy a bit more while traveling, we always recommend using a VPN when connecting to the internet. This will help keep your passwords and financial information safe and ensure you have a strong connection for remote work.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. Nice Dress for Dinner

    Assuming you will be dining in a few nice restaurants for your honeymoon, we recommend a few different dresses that are easy to pack and look great on all body types. This one comes in sizes 4-22, and can be dressed up with some jewelry and accessories. I like in particular that it’s a little longer in length but still totally sexy.

    Nice Dress for Dinner

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Wide-brimmed Sun Hat

    This is a necessity in Jamaica, where the sun shines all year long. Sun hats protect your skin and face while also providing shade, and this cute one will match any outfit and has an extra wide, floppy brim. I also love it because it provides UPF 50 protection.

    Wide-brimmed Sun Hat

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Packing Cubes

    I’ve been using these packing cubes for a few years now, and can’t believe I ever traveled without them! I love keeping dirty/clean clothes separated, using different sizes for each type of clothing (tops in one, bottoms in another), and it’s super convenient to give each person their own color cubes so nothing gets mixed up. You’ll never have a disorganized suitcase again!

    Packing Cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Beach Bag

    I love this bag because it’s water resistant, fits all of my beach and pool necessities (sunscreen, my coverup, a quick dry towel, and my kindle), but looks stylish. I also appreciate the insulated bottom section that keeps my water bottle cold throughout the day.

    Beach Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Neck Wallet

    Unfortunately, visiting parts of Jamaica, especially away from the resorts, can put you at risk for crimes such as pickpocketing. We recommend keeping most valuables in your room safe, and carrying your ID, cards, and cash in a neck wallet, which can be worn close to the body, or even under your clothing. This neck wallet includes RFID-blocking lining and is made from tough ripstop fabric for extra security. It allows you to travel hands-free while keeping your valuables safe and secure.

    neck wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Travel Insurance for Jamaica

    Even the best plans can be ruined by weather, sickness, or travel disruptions. Since your honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, make sure you plan for the unexpected and protect your trip with travel insurance. This will give you extra peace of mind so you can totally relax on your honeymoon. We like to use TravelInsurance.com to compare policies from top companies and find the one that best fits our family and travel plans.

    Travel Insurance for Jamaica

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

  • 10. Rash Guard

    The sun in Jamaica is no joke – you can easily get burned if you aren’t careful! In addition to high-SPF sunscreen, we recommend you wear a rash guard if you’re going to be out for extended periods. These shirts provide UPF protection, dry quickly, and also protect your skin from sand, saltwater, and scrapes.

    Rash Guard

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Travel Umbrella

    The weather in Jamaica is absolutely beautiful…until it isn’t. Jamaica is known for brief but powerful showers, particularly in the afternoon, but they thankfully don’t last all day. Throw this travel umbrella in your beach bag or backpack so that a rainstorm won’t ruin your day. You’ll be thankful you have it during the unexpected shower, particularly since it does not take up much room at all.

    Travel Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Underwater Camera

    Hopefully your Jamaican honeymoon will include some snorkeling, or even scuba diving. You don’t have to have expensive camera equipment to capture amazing photos of your adventures – this underwater takes both photo and video with awesome quality, and connects to wi-fi to instantly share your photos.

    Underwater Camera

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Waterproof Phone Case

    This is one of those items that when you need it, you will be so thankful you have it! This small pouch can be thrown into your beach bag or backpack, and can protect your phone from both water and sand, while still allowing you to use it.

    Waterproof Phone Case

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Reef-safe Sunscreen

    Make sure you pack and wear sunscreen every day in Jamaica, especially if you aren’t used to intense Caribbean sunshine. This sunscreen is water-resistant, reef-safe, vegan, and free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, phthalates, and sulfate, so it’s safe for both you and the environment.

    Reef-safe Sunscreen

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Cooling Towel

    This towel packs up so tiny into a small case, but provides a ton of relief when you are heated from outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and spending time at the beach. Just pour water onto the towel and it instantly gets cool, even in hot weather. It even comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

    cooling towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Swim Cover-up

    Although you’ll likely be spending a ton of time at the beach and pool, and hopefully in your swimwear), you will want to bring along a cover up for grabbing lunch or a drink, or just to protect your skin while walking around the resort or beach. I love these kimono-style cover-ups because they easily slip on over absolutely everything, and look great on every single body type.

    Swim Cover-up

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Portable Charger

    Everyone has had that moment: when you’re out and busy all day, and look at your phone to see the battery is almost dead. When you’re traveling in Jamaica, you’ll likely be carrying your phone and taking photos while out, so make sure you can charge up when needed with a small lipstick-sized charger like this one. It fits into almost any small bag and can fully charge you up quickly.

    Portable Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to Wear in Jamaica

What you wear in Jamaica may depend on what you plan to do. If you want to hike, climb waterfalls, or go diving, you’ll need some specific gear and clothing, such as a rash guard. However, if you plan to spend most of your time at the pool or beach, a swimsuit with a simple coverup and some flip-flops will be fine.

Natural fabrics, resort wear, and causal beach attire is okay, but bring nicer clothing for dinner out. No matter what you plan to do, we recommend bringing along a day pack, so that you can pack a water bottle and all your essentials for the day.

Jamaica
What WOMEN should wear in Jamaica – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

sundress
Daypack
Purse
Quick-dry-tee
Flip flop
Shorts
Sandals
Necklace
Tank
Skort
Rash-guard
Sarong
Dress Sporty
Sunglasses

Women can get away with a sundress and sandals almost anywhere in Jamaica, but you’ll obviously want to pack a few more options. For casual days at the resort or at the beach, we recommend some shorts and quick-drying tops along with a few casual sundresses. A sunhat and sunglasses are necessary almost everywhere.

Since this is a honeymoon trip, you’ll also want to look fabulous going out, so definitely pack some nicer dresses and sandals. A few inexpensive jewelry options will dress your outfit up without the risk of losing something valuable.

What MEN should wear in Jamaica – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Blazer-Herringbone
Baseball-cap
Belt
Sunglasses
Shorts
Sneakers men
Shirt-linen-ls
Quick-dry-tee
Jeans
Buff UV+
Daypack
Khaki Joggers
Shirt linen ss
Shirt-Hawaiian
Sunhat

Jamaica is a laid-back destination, and beachwear is appropriate for most locations. Plan to bring some shorts and swim trunks, and some quick-dry shirts or tanks to go with them. Look for natural fabrics that breathe so you’ll stay cool throughout the trip.

For nicer nights out, a pair of lightweight pants is recommended, as well as a lightweight blazer to dress your look up. Don’t forget the accessories: a hat, sunglasses, belt, and watch.

Packing for the Seasons in Jamaica

Wet Season – June, July, August, September, October, and November

Jamaica’s wet season corresponds with its hurricane season. It doesn’t mean it’s wet all the time, just wetter than the other months. Frequently, Jamaica has a heavy rainfall in the afternoon, but the rest of the day is fine, so you can still plan to do lots of activities if you visit during this time. Plan to wear lightweight clothing such as shorts and tees, and pack an umbrella wherever you go so you won’t get caught unprepared in a downpour. A rain jacket is also a good idea. Generally, sandals are fine, but you may also want to wear some water shoes, depending on the activity, just in case you get caught in a storm.

Temperatures in the wet season average between 72°F or 22°C lows and 90°F or 32°C highs throughout the island.

Wet season in Jamaica

Dry Season – December, January, February, March, April, and May

The dry season also corresponds with slightly cooler weather in Jamaica. This is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is beautiful and there is less chance of harsh storms. However, it’s also the busiest time of year and the prices of resorts and hotels may be higher because of the wonderful weather.
It is still plenty warm and tropical during the winter and spring months, so you’ll want to pack sundresses and shorts for most days. In the evenings, it can cool off after sunset, so plan to bring a jacket or long sleeve shirt to layer on over your outfit if you’ll be out.

Temperatures in the wet season average between 67°F or 19°C lows and 88°F or 31°C highs in most areas.

Dry season in Jamaica
Dressing appropriately for the activity– (Click to expand)
Outdoor Sports: Jamaica is a great destination for snorkeling, diving, hiking, and more. Make sure to pack high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen for your days out in the sun. We also recommend a rash guard to protect you from the sun, sand, and reefs. Finally, pack your waterproof phone pouch so that your phone stays safe all day!

Resorts: Chances are your Jamaican honeymoon will include a stay at a resort. There are often activities each day, and lots of restaurants and bars to check out as well. Shorts and a tank are totally fine for the daytime at the resort, and of course a swimsuit and coverup.

Beaches and Pools: All Jamaican honeymoons should include plenty of time at the beach or pool! Obviously, you’ll want to pack a few swimsuits or swim shorts. You should plan on bringing a coverup as well, as some restaurants and shops require it. Be sure to pack a beach bag with your water bottle and sunscreen for the day!

Nightlife: After all the time in swim gear and shorts, you may want to go out to a nice dinner or club, and will want to pack accordingly. Bring an easy, sexy dress that can be dressed up with some accessories and you’ll feel great at any Jamaican restaurant. Men should bring a lightweight blazer to throw on to dress up any outfit.

What NOT to Bring to Jamaica

  • 1.DON’T BRING a Hair Dryer

    Your hotel will certainly have a hair dryer available for you, and this will take up way too much valuable luggage space. Better yet – let your hair go natural with beachy waves and salt spray from the ocean!

  • 2.DON’T PACK Beach Towels

    You will definitely want a towel in Jamaica, whether you plan to sunbathe poolside or explore the sea, but don’t pack a large towel from home. Your resort can provide pool towels, and for adventures, pack a super-convenient Quick-Dry Travel Towel to save space.

  • 3.DON’T WEAR Heavy Fabrics

    While Jamaica can get cooler in the evenings, especially if you are out at the beach after sunset, you still will not need any heavy fabrics that take up space in your bag. Consider packing natural fabrics like cotton and linen, and you’ll be glad you did.

  • 4.DON’T BRING Expensive Jewelry

    For the most part, Jamaica is safe, but the possibility of pickpocketing or having valuables stolen is real. Do not even bring your nice jewelry from home – instead, choose a few statement pieces of costume jewelry and you’ll still look great.

  • 5.DON’T PACK A Lot of Cash

    Again, crime can happen in Jamaica, especially when you venture far from the resort areas. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, so there isn’t really a need to bring cash. Have a bit on hand for taxis or tips, but leave the rest at home.

  • 6.DON’T BRING Illegal Drugs (really!)

    We’re not saying that you are into traveling with drugs, but understand that illegal drugs are taken very seriously in Jamaica. Being caught with drugs will certainly carry a large fine, and can even result in prison sentences, which must be served in Jamaica. Just don’t do it!

What NOT to wear in Jamaica – (Click to expand)
As we’ve stated, Jamaica is a warm destination no matter when you visit, so you’ll want to avoid bringing warm, heavy, or bulky clothing. This means you should look at the fabric of your clothing as well as the style. While a few items are fine, make sure not all of your clothing is synthetic fabric that gets hot, or heavy fabrics like denim that will hold the heat in. You will want to bring an extra layer to cover up in the evenings, but you won’t need it most of the time. The same goes for shoes – you won’t need heavy hiking boots, so be sure to pack lightweight sneakers and sandals instead.

FAQs About Travel to Jamaica

  • 1. Is it safe to honeymoon in Jamaica?

    For the most part, yes! Jamaica has many options for very safe travel accommodations, and you should not be afraid to visit. However, crime is a reality in Jamaica, and you need to be aware and use good judgement in order to protect yourself. Leave valuables at your hotel, and have an idea of where you’re headed each day if you choose to leave the resort areas. There are TONS of safe options for adventures all over the island, just practice common sense and remain vigilant.

  • 2. Is Jamaica a good destination for an LGBTQIA+ honeymoon?

    Is Jamaica a good destination for an LGBTQIA+ honeymoon?

    Unfortunately, no. Homosexuality is illegal in Jamaica, and there are no protections for discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people. Some resorts list themselves as LGBTQIA+-friendly, but should a LGBTQIA+ couple choose to visit Jamaica, it is recommended that they stay in the resort “bubble”, and not travel throughout the country.

  • 3. What is the official language and currency of Jamaica?

    English is the official language, but many people speak Patois (pronounced “Patwa”), which is a mix of English and Creole, with West African influences. Don’t worry – if you know English, you will do just fine visiting. The Jamaican dollar is the currency used in Jamaica, but most places in the tourism industry accept US dollars.

  • 4. Are there hurricanes in Jamaica?

    Are there hurricanes in Jamaica?

    Yes, as a Caribbean country, Jamaica is sometimes in the path of hurricanes. The good news is, they do not frequently directly hit the island, and they don’t happen often. Hurricane season is officially June through November, but don’t let that dissuade you from visiting during those months, when prices can often be much lower. We recommend getting Travel Insurance for Jamaica no matter when you visit, but especially during hurricane season, just to protect your trip.

  • 5. Where is the best place to honeymoon in Jamaica?

    Most visitors choose either Negril (on the West coast) or Montego Bay and Ocho Rios (on the North coast). All three locations are full of incredible resorts, and they have easy access to beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and other excursions like horseback riding. Kingston, the capital located on the southern coast, is also a popular destination.

  • 6. When is the best time of year to visit Jamaica?

    When is the best time of year to visit Jamaica?

    Anytime of year is a good time to visit, but it’s recommended to plan your visit between January and April, which are the driest months. These are, however, the most popular months, so things may be a bit more expensive.

  • 7. How do you get around Jamaica?

    It is recommended that you call a reliable taxi if you choose to explore out of the main resort areas (your hotel or resort can help with this), as public transportation is not always the safest or most reliable option. Many of the excursions available to tourists will also include transportation right from your hotel or resort.

  • 8. What are the best activities to do while we’re visiting Jamaica?

    What are the best activities to do while we’re visiting Jamaica?

    There’s plenty of adventure available, if that’s your thing: zip lining, hiking waterfalls, and scuba diving, to name a few. However, if visiting on your honeymoon, you may want to explore some of the more romantic options, including couples’ massages, watching sunset from Negril, or just walking on beautiful white sand beaches. No matter what you’re into, you’ll have an amazing honeymoon in Jamaica.