Packing for your trip can be nerve racking – But we’re here to help
Whether this is your first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, getting ready for Cuba can sometimes be intimidating, especially since Americans haven’t been allowed to travel to this beautiful warm tropical island for over 58 years. However, rest assured that preparing to travel to Cuba is as easy as any domestic flight within the United States. Just a few more things we have to think about that’s all.
The weather in Cuba is much like the weather in South Florida, hot and muggy in the summer months so cotton and other light fabrics are perfect. In the winter months (late Nov thru Feb) the temperatures can dip in the evenings, so always bring a light jacket during these months.
Dress attire in Cuba is up to you. However, keep in mind that shorts during the day while touring is perfect. Dinner will be casual as well, but we recommend a casual formal wear, like long pants (jeans are fine) and a nice shirt. Cuba may be a third world country, but the Cubans dress nicely during the night, so consider this when packing.
Laundry services are provided at hotels and resorts for a fee (Laundry fees are the responsibility of the owner).
Make sure you understand the weight limits for luggage, since Airline weight limits change constantly. Check with your airline prior to packing to avoid over limit luggage fees.
Checklist of personal items customized for Cuba travel. Just bring what you think you’ll need.
Important Items: documents and money
- Airline tickets
- Passport original (and a color photocopy of your passport)
- Cuban tourist visa
- USA-CUBA Tours People-to-People Travel authorization document
- Money: CASH is best, Cuba can be funny about old or torn US currency and has refused to exchange them on occasion, so try to get crisp new bills when traveling.
Clothes and accessories
- Pants (Jeans and dress)
- Shorts (light fabric)
- Collar Shirts
- Pull-over shirts
- Skirt, Dress
- Women Slacks
- Sweater or light jacket
- Swim suit
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Underwear and socks
- Tennis shoes (Comfortable shoes)
- Sandals
- Dress shoes and socks
- Back-Pack
- Belt
- Watch
- Prescription glasses or contacts and solution (eye drops)
- Umbrella
- Cap or Hat (you can purchase in Cuba)
- Luggage locks (recommend a minimum of 2 small locks)
- Spray mister water bottle with battery operated fan (summers)
- Fanny pack or money belt
Hygiene and Medicine
- Band-Aids
- Neosporin
- Earplugs (if you have trouble sleeping)
- Deodorant
- Perfume or Cologne
- Moisturizer
- Face cloth
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Hair Conditioner
- Hairspray
- Hairbrush
- Nail clippers
- Q-Tips
- Lip balm
- Kaopectate or Imodium
- Prescription drugs bring a two-week supply (keep them in their original bottle)
- Insect repellent or oil (pack in checked luggage)
- Roll of toilet paper
- Tampons
- Condoms
- Sanitary napkins
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Mouthwash
- Shaving cream and razor
- Electric Shaver
- Vitamins
- Aspirin
- Facial cleaner
Things that make the world go around – travel items
- Camera
- Film
- Memory
- Batteries
- iPod or iPad (download some movies to watch)
- Laptop
- Cell Phone (unlocked if you’re planning on renting a Cuban line)
- Kindle
- Books to read
- Spanish dictionary or Phrase book
- Pens or Pencils
- Cigarette lighter or Matches
- Candle (never know when the power will go out J)
- Snacks (nuts, crackers, sweets)
- Phone chargers
- iPad charger
- Laptop power cord
- Gifts for the Cuban People (small items like rings, perfume, shirt, etc..)