Traveling to the Dominican Republic? Wondering what you need to bring along to this tropical island? This article will go over all the things you’ll need, so you’ll know how to pack for a trip to the Dominican Republic.

Be sure to grab the free printable tropical vacation checklist, too, so you can keep it handy while packing.

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Whether you’re heading to the beach or exploring around town, I know that everyone has their own traveling style and personal needs during the trip. This guide will help you customize your packing list according to where you’re going in the Dominican Republic, what kind of activities you’ve got planned, and more information you’ll find useful.

Free Printable Tropical Vacation Packing List

Travel Documents

If you read my previous post, How to Plan a Trip to the Dominican Republic, you’ll remember that there are a handful of required travel documents you will need to enter the country. I recommend scooting back to that article if you haven’t read it yet. It goes into more detail about what documents you need to get into the DR, why and how to get them, and where to carry them.

As a review, here they are:

Passport

E-ticket

Travel Insurance number/info

Money – cash and cards, some packed separately

Emergency contacts

Document copies

*Note: If you’re unsure about any of the aforementioned travel documents or just need a refresher, please duck back to the post on how to plan a trip to the Dominican Republic.

You back? Alright!

Whatever luggage you choose, make sure you don’t spill your coffee! ⬆️

Luggage Options: Carry-On Only or Checked Bag?

Ah yes, the age-old question, what size luggage to bring?

Avid travelers like the famous Rick Steves or today’s globetrotting digital nomads might recommend only carry-on luggage. Quicker to grab and go, less chance of lost or damaged luggage, lighter transit for buzzing around your destination.

Yet other leisurely travelers who plan to just plop down their bag at a resort for a week have no issue with toting a larger, checked bag. Bring your favorite outfits, a few beach toys, or extra electronic gadgets, and still have room for some cheeky souvenirs.

We’ll take a middle-of-the-road approach to packing: Efficient yet leave some wiggle room for those fun extras.

(By the way, just to be clear, the luggage in the top photo is NOT all mine; I was keeping my sister’s bags from rolling away while she took the picture! I’m not quite THAT extravagant!🤣)

Personal Item

Whether you choose a checked bag or a carry-on, you’ll still be allowed that important bag you tuck under the airline seat in front of you: the personal item.

The personal item can take the shape of many different bags, as long as it adheres to the airline’s size requirements.

Laptop bags, large purses or tote bags, and backpacks are commonly used as travelers’ personal items.

I’m currently using (and wearing in the photo above) this SHRRADOO Travel Laptop Backpack that I bought on Amazon. I love that it has:

• Lots of storage space and pockets. Like they read my mind, knowing what big items and small items I needed to pack into the perfect nooks and crannies. Plus all the zippers feel really strong and secure. That’s important to me, as I can ransack my pack like a rabid animal when I’m searching for something in a hurry, so I need those zippers to withstand my manic zipping.
• Comfortable airflow foam pads in the back to keep the pack lifted and not digging into your shoulders.
• Smart construction and adjustable straps keep the pack lifted, so it doesn’t drag on your lower back.
• USB ports that discretely poke out to charge your device when you carry a small battery pack. (not included)
• Secure, small anti-theft pocket on the back to carry your passport, phone and other essentials.

It’s a great backpack overall. No need to spend a lot of money when you find something like this that works and is built to last. Just $30 on Amazon.

What to Pack in Your Personal Item

Your personal item bag is the location for your important travel documents, as well as small convenience and comfort items for your flight.

• Passport
• Credit cards
• Travel insurance info, just in case
• US $1 bills for tips
• Electronics, such as a laptop or tablet (if not in a carryon)
• Battery packs, chargers
• Face mask
• Disinfecting hand wipes
• Headphones/ earbuds
• Snacks
• Reusable water bottle (carry empty through security, fill at the water station near gates)
• Reading material (Kindle or e-readers, lightweight book or magazine)
• Medications
• Sweatshirt or light jacket for chilly flights
• Toothbrush, overnight items in case of overnight delay or loss of luggage (optional, I’ve been lucky so far!)

Packing Cubes

If you haven’t been introduced to the wonderful invention of packing cubes, you may be in for a real treat! (unless you enjoy opening your suitcase to exploding chaos of clothing mayhem when you only need a toothbrush!)

Packing cubes are small zipper bags designed to organize, compress and compartmentalize your clothes inside your suitcase. They come in different rectangular shapes and sizes, so you can pack your smaller items, like underwear and socks, in the smaller cubes, and larger pieces, like pants and shirts, in the larger cubes.

You can also buy compression packing cubes that are designed so you can suck all the air out of the cubes before packing, to further optimize the use of space.

Travel Essentials

Before we get into listing all the clothing items you’ll need, let’s first address some very important travel essentials you’ll want to bring along to the Dominican Republic.

Reef-Friendly Sunscreen

The Dominican Republic is located just 19 degrees north of the equator, so yes, the sun is a bit intense and you’ll definitely need sunscreen.

Be sure to use sunscreen that’s safe for coral reefs, such as Banana Boat Sport Ultra. I love that this lightweight, clear spray makes getting protective coverage so much easier on hard-to-reach places, like backs and sandy feet!

Bug repellent

Depending on where you’re staying, what activities you’ll be engaging in, and what time of year it is, you may need to wear insect repellent.

Staying in a rainforest, and going on jungle hikes, all during the rainy season would require a good amount of bug protection; however, vacationing in Santo Domingo or touring the more arid western end of the DR would require less.

Earplugs

As with any travel situation, you never know who your neighbors are going to be and what the sleeping conditions will be like until you get there, so be prepared.

Resort areas may be loud at night, with fellow vacationers partying in the discos till the wee hours of the morning.

You may also be kept awake in the more typical Dominican neighborhoods, as they love their music played loud, be it bachata, merengue, or salsa. While it makes for a fun, dance-party atmosphere for those involved, it also can be annoying when you just want to sleep!

Also adding to the loud nocturnal mix is the sound of traffic, especially motorbike scooters whining like noisy mosquitoes.

Prescriptions/vitamins

There are lots of prescription drugs that can be purchased over the counter or simply by asking the pharmacist in the Dominican Republic. That said, be prepared by packing whatever medications you will need for the length of your stay.

Toilet paper

While resort area restrooms should be well equipped, you can’t guarantee up-to-par standards as you venture out into public facilities. Bring a few squares of your own, just in case.

And while we’re on the topic, it’s customary in the Dominican Republic to throw toilet paper in the trash next to the toilet, NOT IN the toilet. While that may seem gross and shocking to visitors, it’s been the norm, as septic systems can’t always handle the overload of paper. Resort areas may be lacking in signage on that issue, so tourists may not heed it. But be aware, and try to abide by local customs as you see fit.

Hand Sanitizer

You’re in a foreign country, and you don’t want to ruin your trip by getting sick. Public restrooms may not always have soap available. Be vigilant with whatever means you use to stay healthy.

Disinfectant wipes

Same as for hand sanitizer. I might argue that these items may help you the most in the airports and on the plane rides in and out of the United States. If in doubt, wipe those airplane tray tables, airport restroom handles, and airplane seatbelts.

Keyring

A keyring comes in handy if you’re staying in an Airbnb or similar vacation rental, where you might be given a single key for getting into your place. It’s nice to have some kind of ring to put the key on, as they don’t always include one.

Water bottle with filter

While we’ve already mentioned bringing a reusable water bottle on the plane with you, let me also add that having a water bottle with a built-in filter may be especially reassuring when traveling to a developing country, such as the Dominican Republic.

Remember: You Cannot Drink Tap Water in the Dominican Republic! It is not safe. Pure, filtered water can usually be obtained in your hotel lobby, or purchased in individual or large bottles at small markets (colmados) or supermercados.

Using a refillable bottle with a filter will not only cut down on plastic but also give you an extra sense of security by filtering that hotel water a bit more.

Day pack

You will be happy to have a small backpack along if you have any excursions planned for your trip. Whether it’s a hike to a waterfall or a boat ride to an island, you’ll be glad to have something to keep your water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and whatever else you will need for a day’s outing.

Shopping bag

In addition to a small backpack, a reusable shopping bag will come in handy if you’re planning on buying and cooking your own food. Grocery stores don’t always provide bags in countries outside of the US, and it’s better for the environment to use your own, anyway.

Electronics and Tech Gear

If you’re only visiting the DR for a week, take a break from screen time and try to only pack the necessities when it comes to electronics. The less bulky, expensive gear you bring, the less to worry about it getting lost or stolen.

That said, don’t forget the phone chargers, battery packs, earbuds, and other accessories for the necessary gadgets. This cute pink Electronic Organizer will help keep all those pesky cords organized and under control. More great colors to choose from, too, if you’re not into pink. 😊 ⬆️

This multiple outlet power strip is super helpful in rooms without enough plugins for all your phone chargers, etc. It has 3 regular outlets and 3 USB ports.

It also has a 3-foot cord that neatly wraps around its curved edges and clicks in place so you can easily tuck it into your suitcase. I was gifted this for Christmas last year and I brought it along to Costa Rica where it was greatly needed in our very basic Airbnb. (hint, makes a great gift for those travelers in your life!) ⬆️

Electronic Gear:

• devices: laptop, phone, tablet
• chargers for devices
• Earbuds and charger for wireless earbuds
• Headphone jack adapter (If your phone doesn’t have a headphone jack, you’ll need this to watch in-flight entertainment on your phone, as Bluetooth won’t work with this in-flight service.) ✈️
• Digital action camera with a waterproof case (optional but fun!)

Clothing: What to Wear in the Dominican Republic

Weather in the D.R.

The Dominican Republic is a tropical country, meaning the weather will always be fairly warm. Unless you’re in the mountain regions during the winter months, the average daily temperatures year-round range from 65 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are one or two rainy seasons in the DR, depending on which area you’re in. Typically the fall months of October and November are rainy for most, with the north coast getting more rain in November and December. Most of the country stays dry from January through April, which makes it the high season for tourists. In May another round of heavy rains may pummel some parts, continuing as off-and-on rains throughout the summer.

Plan on bringing light, airy, summer clothes for the warm weather. The rainy season will require a rain jacket and umbrella. The winter months of January and February can be a bit cool in the evenings, so a light jacket or sweatshirt would be a good idea.

Cultural Considerations in the D.R.

As far as how to dress in touristy resort areas, pretty much anything goes. Shorts, tank tops, swimsuits, and coverups, all mingle well with a crowd of American and European tourists.

If you’re planning on leaving the tourist areas and venturing into local towns, however, be considerate of the cultural norms around you, and dress a bit more modestly, if possible. Long pants for guys and longer shorts, cropped pants, or skirts for women.

Modest dressing is especially important if you’re visiting national monuments, churches, or historical buildings. Take a cue from the locals or Dominican tour guides: If they’re dressing more formally, then perhaps you might also want to leave the tank tops in your hotel room and opt for more coverage on the shoulders and thighs.

Clothing to Bring to the Dominican Republic

Women’s Skort $33

High Waisted Bikini $33

Summer Dress $27

Here’s a general list of clothing items you may need for a 10-day trip. This assumes you have access to a laundering facility, so you can wash some clothing for a second wear.

You may also use these as categories for organizing your things into packing cubes.

Tops:

• 5 tank tops or sleeveless tops
• 3 t-shirts
• 1 dressy blouse
• 1 zip-up hooded sweatshirt
• 1 waterproof windbreaker jacket

Bottoms:

• 2 pr. Cargo shorts
• 2 pairs of athletic shorts
• 1 skirt or sundress
• 1 pair of pants or cropped khakis
• 1 pr. Joggers or comfy pants for the flight

Swimwear:

• 2 swimsuits
• 1 coverup
• 1-2 rash guards, or sun protection shirt

Shoes:

• 2 pairs of sandals (1 sporty, 1 dressy)
• 1 pair of sneakers/ shoes for the plane
• Closed-toe shoes for formal tours (optional)
• Flip flops (nice for wearing inside the hotel room, or on the beach.)
• Socks

Women’s Sport Sandals $33

Women’s Sun Hat $26

2-Pc. Outfit $37

Lingerie and Sleepwear:

• 6 pairs underwear
• 2 bras
• 2 sport bras
• 2 sets pajamas

Toiletries

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Lip balm
• Dental floss
• Shaving items
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Deodorant
• Facial wipes
• Facial cleanser
• Face lotion
• Body lotion
• Aloe vera gel/after-sun lotion
• comb/brush
• Hair accessories
• Makeup
• Tweezers
• Nail clippers
• Other items as needed (feminine products, beard oil, etc.)

First Aid Essentials

• Insect repellent
• Anti-itch cream
• Bandages
• First aid cream
• Stomach meds
• Dramamine for boat rides (opt.)
• Headache meds
• Daily meds with prescription bottles, in case of need to refill (if travel delayed)
• Vitamins

Water Sports Equipment

• Thin beach towel
• Brimmed hat with a cord (keep it on your head at windy beaches!)
• Sunscreen
• Snorkel and mask (optional, but I prefer using my own, not renting one used)
• Fins
• Water shoes or booties (for rocky beaches or snorkeling)
• Swim goggles
• Sunglasses
• Waterproof camera or waterproof phone pouch

GoPro Waterproof Action Camera $310

Akaso Waterproof Action Camera $70

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch $10

Creature Comforts

While we’re all about packing lean and sticking to the basics, sometimes a few small creature comfort items can provide a little joy when you’re far from home.

Everybody’s idea of creature comforts will differ, but here’s my list, just to give you some ideas of things to bring to help you feel relaxed and connected when you’re away:

• E-reader or lightweight reading materials
• Tea bags/ drink mix/ (protein shakes)
• Protein bars or favorite snacks
• Travel journal and pen to reflect on your experiences

What NOT to Bring

Of course, there will also be a few items you will NOT want to bring along to the Dominican Republic.

For starters, be sure to check the official government info online about what will not be allowed through customs, either in the Dominican Republic or when returning to the U.S. (or to wherever you call home.)

Items NOT to Bring:

• Bulky beach towel (hopefully the hotel or rental home will provide these, or just bring a thin one.
• Valuables (flashing expensive jewelry, clothing, watches, electronics, will be risking them getting stolen)
• Heavy books (that’s what e-readers are for!)
• Warm clothes (save one warm (but condensable) outfit for the trip back to a cold climate, if needed.)

Packing It All In

Once you’ve gathered all your things to bring to the Dominican Republic, you’ve got a few steps left before you’re ready to zip up your bags and go.

1. Edit your luggage.

Look for any duplicate items that you don’t really need, any other extras you can do without, and delete them from your pile.

2. Organize your stuff into packing cubes.

Create categories of like items, and designate a packing cube for each, depending on what fits in which size cubes. Don’t overthink it, just keep your categories fluid enough that you can rearrange them if needed and still know where to find certain items.

3. Pack the bulky things first.

Line the bottom of your suitcase with bulky things, like sports equipment and bags of toiletries or aid kits. Roll delicate items in a piece of clothing to avoid breakage.

Then add the rest of your packing cubes, mesh side up if possible, so you can see what’s inside each cube.

4. Weigh Your Luggage.

Make sure the weight of your bags meets the airline’s specifications.

Buen viaje!

Or, Bon Voyage, or Have a Great Trip!

I hope this has given you a general structure for creating your own personalized packing list for the Dominican Republic.

If you haven’t yet downloaded the free packing checklist, be sure to click below to snag it now.

Free Printable Tropical Vacation Packing List

With your bags efficiently packed with all the necessities for your upcoming adventure, you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the Dominican Republic and its lovely people. Have a wonderful vacation!

Hasta luego!