When the Island Vibe Is the Dress Code: What to Pack for Aruba (and What to Skip)

Ah, Aruba. Where the sunsets melt into the sea and your biggest decision of the day is "beach or pool?" This is the kind of place where less is truly more, and overpacking is really the only faux pas you’ll want to avoid. The good news? You don’t need much to blend in with the effortlessly cool island vibe.

Let’s start with the basics. Aruba’s weather is gloriously predictable—warm and breezy all year round. The sun shines generously, the ocean breeze keeps things comfortable, and the humidity never gets too pushy. So your best bet is to go light, breathable, and fuss-free. Think sundresses, linen pants, tank tops, and flowy skirts. Clothes that dance in the breeze and let you breathe easy too. And yes, bring more than one swimsuit. Two or three will do the trick, especially if you're hopping between beach days, resort pools, and spontaneous snorkeling adventures. A stylish cover-up or two will take you from the beach to the bar without missing a beat.

Shoes? Keep them simple. One pair of sandals for strolling the beach and boardwalk, another pair you don’t mind getting wet, and maybe something a little dressier for an evening out. But leave the heels at home—Aruba’s cobblestone streets, beach bars, and oceanfront patios just aren’t made for stilettos.

You’ll also want a wide-brimmed hat or cap to protect your face from the strong Caribbean sun, plus a pair of polarized sunglasses that actually do their job. Sunscreen is a must—reef-safe, of course. Aruba cares deeply about its marine life, and so should we. A reusable water bottle will save you money and help keep you hydrated while being eco-friendly, and a roomy beach tote is perfect for tossing in all your day-trip essentials.

Now let’s talk about the stuff that doesn’t belong in your suitcase. Heavy jeans? Nope. They’ll feel like a sauna and take forever to dry. Leather jackets or sweaters? Not unless your flight has a tendency to turn into a tundra. Hair tools? Honestly, don’t bother. The ocean breeze has a rebellious streak that’ll undo your best styling efforts in seconds. Just embrace the tousled, salt-kissed look. It’s island-approved.

Keep your accessories minimal. This is not the place for statement earrings that could get snatched by a gust of wind or necklaces that cling in the heat. A few simple, beach-friendly pieces will do. As for makeup, go light and let that sun-kissed glow be the star.

Depending on your plans, a few extras might make your trip even more seamless. If you’re headed out on a boat or doing a lot of water activities, a dry bag and water shoes come in handy. Most tours will supply snorkel gear, but if you prefer your own mask and fins, toss them in. A tiny first-aid kit is always a smart addition, and a travel-sized laundry detergent can be a lifesaver for quick swimsuit washes.

Tech-wise, keep it simple: your phone (with waterproof case), a charger, maybe an e-reader or a good paperback for beach reading, and a lightweight power bank for those long days away from your hotel room.

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space. If you’re the ultra-organized type, packing cubes will help keep your suitcase tidy—and might even leave room for a few souvenirs. And speaking of souvenirs, Aruba has some fabulous local art, handmade jewelry, and island-crafted rum worth making space for.

At the end of the day, packing for Aruba is all about leaning into the ease of island life. Let go of the overthinking, embrace the breeze, and pack like you’re already on vacation. Because once you arrive, you’ll realize that comfort, confidence, and a good pair of flip-flops are all you really need.

---

Pack Light, Pack Right

Aruba’s consistent temps (high 70s to low 90s year-round) and trade winds mean breezy, breathable clothing is your best friend. Think more linen, less leather.

What to Pack:

1. Light Layers:

• Breathable sundresses, rompers, tank tops, shorts

• One lightweight long-sleeve shirt (for sun or bugs)

• A pair of comfy linen pants or a maxi skirt

2. Swimwear:

• 2–3 swimsuits (you’ll live in them!)

• A stylish cover-up or two

• Flip flops, waterproof sandals, or espadrilles

3. Footwear:

• Comfortable sandals for walking

• Water shoes if you’re planning rocky cove adventures

• One nice pair of dressy flats or sandals for dining out

4. Evening Wear:

• Aruba’s restaurant scene is casual but chic. Think beachy cocktail dresses or a breezy button-up with slacks.

5. Accessories & Essentials:

• Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap

• Sunglasses (polarized, if possible)

• Reef-safe sunscreen (Aruba protects its coral reefs)

• Reusable water bottle

• Tote bag or beach bag

6. Health & Safety Must-Haves:

• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion

• Bug spray

• Any prescription meds

• Motion sickness bands or meds (for boat trips)

7. Tech:

• Phone and charger

• Waterproof phone pouch

• E-reader or book

• Lightweight power bank

What to Skip:

• High heels: Cobblestone streets and sandy paths don’t play well with stilettos.

• Heavy denim or jackets: You won’t need them unless you’re planning to sit in an airport for hours.

• Hair tools: Embrace the island breeze—humidity and curling irons don’t mix well.

• Too many accessories: Simplicity is chic, and the ocean breeze has a knack for stealing earrings.

Special Extras (Based on Your Plans)

• Snorkel gear: Optional, as many tours provide it.

• Dry bag: Great for boat trips and beach hopping.

• Small first-aid kit: Always a good idea.

• Travel-size laundry detergent: For quick sink washes, especially for swimsuits.