The ultimate all inclusive packing list is here, and it has everything you need for a stress-free resort vacation. Whether you are heading to Mexico for a destination wedding, jetting off on your honeymoon, or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved getaway, this all inclusive resort packing list will help you pack smart and arrive prepared. Additionally, we have included a dedicated section for traveling with kids and everything you need to know before you leave home.

Dig out that suitcase and let’s get packing! 🌴

Carry-On & Personal Item

Pack these items in your carry-on in case your checked bags are delayed — it happens! These are also great to have for easy access during travel.

• Passport & travel documents
• A change of clothes (something that could be worn to dinner, just in case!)
• Swimsuit & cover-up
• Flip flops
• Cash — lots of small bills for tipping. Tipping is customary at all-inclusive resorts!
• Credit cards
• Medications
• Valuables (sunglasses, cameras, jewelry — never put these in checked luggage)
• Light jacket or shawl — great as a blanket on the plane
• Hand sanitizer & wipes
• Snacks for the flight
• Travel-size entertainment: book, downloaded shows, playlist

Checked Bag Essentials

Pro tip: packing cubes are a game-changer! Fold your clothes the size of the cube, pack them in cubes, and you will be amazed how much more you can fit. Bonus – you can move a cube directly into the resort drawer.

Bathroom Basics

• Cosmetics
• Make-up remover wipes
• Deodorant
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Razors
• Nail clippers & nail file
• Tweezers
• Hair accessories
• Must-have hair products & appliances (note: some countries use different outlets — pack an adapter if needed)

Accessories

• Sunglasses (if designer, keep in carry-on!)
• Jewelry
• Hat or sun hat
• Beach bag
• Book or Kindle
• Gallon zip-lock bags — great for wet bathing suits or liquids
• Drawstring backpack for excursions
• Insulated travel mug (Yeti or similar) to keep drinks cold at the beach
• Travel umbrella, especially if traveling during rainy season
• Ear plugs

Medicine & Toiletries — Buy at Home, Not There!

Resorts and local pharmacies often carry basics, but prices are significantly higher. Stock up before you leave.

• Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF
• Bug spray
• Aloe for sunburn
• Aspirin or pain reliever
• Antacid
• Anti-diarrhea medicine (no shame — be prepared!)
• Motion sickness medicine (patches, sea bands)
• Allergy medicine
• Contraceptives
• Tampons & pads
• Band-aids
• Prescription glasses & contacts
• Any prescription medications — bring more than you think you will need ✨

Clothing for Her

• Weather-appropriate clothing — mix and match pieces go a long way!
• 1 pair of jeans, pants, or leggings
• Sundress(es)
• Nice dresses for dinner
• 2 pairs of shorts
• 4 casual t-shirts or tanks
• 2 bathing suits (keep one in carry-on)
• Swimsuit cover-ups or sarong
• Lingerie
• PJs
• Extra socks and underwear
• Bras (strapless, sports, and regular)
• Day purse & night purse
• 1 pair of sandals & flip flops
• 1 pair of sneakers or walking shoes
• 1 pair of active shoes for excursions

Clothing for Him

• Weather-appropriate clothing — mix and match!
• 1 pair of jeans, pants, or khakis
• 1 pair of nice pants for dinner (tip: some resort restaurants require men to wear long pants)
• 4 casual t-shirts or tanks
• 2 pairs of shorts
• 2 polo or button-down shirts (short and long sleeve)
• PJs
• Workout clothes
• 2 swimsuits (keep one in carry-on)
• Extra socks and underwear
• 1 pair of sandals & flip flops
• 1 pair of sneakers
• 1 pair of dress shoes for dinners
• 1 pair of active shoes for excursions

Important Reminders Before You Leave

Furthermore, these reminders are just as important as what goes in your suitcase. Do not skip them!

• Notify your credit card companies and bank of your travel dates and destination
• Make copies of your passport — keep one in your carry-on, one in your checked bag. Email a copy to your travel advisor or a family member
• Register with STEP (step.state.gov) for international travel updates and emergency alerts
• Check State Department travel advisories at travel.state.gov
• Set up international communication — download WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger for WiFi calling and texting
• Contact your cell carrier to add an international plan (or keep phone on airplane mode to avoid roaming charges)
• Add frequent flyer numbers, Global Entry, or TSA Pre-Check to your flight itinerary
• Never pack valuables in checked luggage (electronics, jewelry, designer items)
• Leave your full travel itinerary with a family member or trusted friend back home

Travel Insurance: A Must for Any All Inclusive Vacation

We cannot stress this enough — travel insurance is one of the most important things you can purchase before any trip. It is especially critical for international travel and destination weddings. Here is why it matters:

• Covers trip cancellations and interruptions
• Protects against flight delays and missed connections
• Includes medical coverage — most U.S. health insurance does NOT work internationally
• Covers lost, stolen, or damaged baggage

Our go-to is Travel Insured. Visit our travel insurance page for more information and to get a quote for your trip.

Traveling with Kids

Bringing the kids to a destination wedding? All-inclusive resorts are wonderful for families. Many have kids clubs, family pools, and babysitting services. A little extra prep goes a long way toward a smooth trip for everyone!

• Check with the resort in advance about cribs, high chairs, and pack-n-plays — most provide them at no charge
• Diapers, wipes, and formula — bring more than you think you will need. Resort shops carry basics but at a premium. Alternatively, most countries deliver from Amazon — you can pre-order items to be delivered directly to your resort!
• Consider a resort that provides baby essentials, such as Grand Velas or Finest, so you do not need to pack everything
• Kids’ medications: fever reducer, children’s Benadryl, anti-diarrhea, motion sickness
• Sunscreen specifically formulated for kids
• Swim diapers if applicable
• Extra change of clothes in carry-on for little ones
• Snacks, snacks, snacks — plus juice boxes for the flight
• New small toys or activities they have not seen before — great for keeping kids entertained on the plane
• Tablet loaded with downloaded movies and shows (do not rely on in-flight WiFi!)
• Pacifier or bottle ready for descent — sucking helps relieve ear pressure
• Domestic travel with children under 12: you do NOT need a passport — a birth certificate (a photo on your phone works) is sufficient
• International travel: all passengers including infants need a valid passport
• Most airlines allow free check-in of car seats and strollers — confirm with your airline before travel

For the full guide on flying and traveling with kids, check out our Tips for Flying with Kids post on the Bridie Travel blog!

Happy packing — and even happier travels! 🌴

Questions before your trip? Reach out to a Bridie Travel advisor if you’re an existing client for any questions — we are always here to help.