What To Pack For Turks and Caicos

The thought of what to pack always causes a little anxiety. Especially when travelling to somewhere you’ve never been. “Will I need this, will I need that?”,” Do I need these shoes, what about high heels?”, “What if there’s a cool day?”, “Is it supposed to rain?” You know exactly what we’re talking about don’t you? So what DO you pack for Turks and Caicos?

Being one of those who habitually over packs, it took me six visits to Turks and Caicos to realize I didn’t need half of what I packed. Even with Byron rolling his eyes at me every trip saying “do you really think you’re going to need that?”, I’d be in shock that he’d think I didn’t! So yes, I’ve been dragging around a ridiculously heavy suitcase for years and coming home with half of my clothes unworn.

I’m now happy to report my suitcase only weighs half of what it used to.

Pro Tip

Here’s a great thing for over packers when you travel to Turks and Caicos. Whether you’re staying at a resort or a villa, it’s more than likely your accommodation comes equipped with an ‘in room’ washer and dryer!! YES! It's true!! A quick cold wash mid week will freshen up all your clothes keeping them fresh for the rest of your stay. And that my friends, makes your packing quick and easy!

With travel now being open post pandemic, the fear of losing luggage is a valid concern. The list below is designed to fit into a standard carry on bag giving you peace of mind when navigating any delays and/or interruptions during your travel day.

In the event you still wish to check in your luggage, we'd strongly encourage you to purchase Apple Airtags to place in your bags. We had checked bags for our most recent trip and we were able to see where our bags were at all times. Should your baggage get lost, you'll be able to assist the agents to it's whereabouts.

To utilize the most space in your luggage, check out one of our favourite packing items. I personally love these packing cubes ( I have two sets for myself) as they save space in my luggage and make unpacking and repacking a breeze! These are great for both hand and checked luggage.

Keep in mind that most dining options are outside. You’ll want to stay cool and comfortable. Remember this when choosing what to pack for Turks and Caicos.

Use this list as a starting guide and we're sure you'll enjoy the lighter luggage.

Ladies

• 3 Swimsuits (at least) and however many cover ups you like.
• 3-4 Easy to dress up summer dresses and/or maxi dresses
• 1 Light weight cardigan or shawl
• 1 Pair of Capris and/or leggings
• 1 Cute shorts
• Couple of cute lightweight tops
• Couple of T-shirts
• 2 Pairs of flip flops – one for the beach and the others for the rest of your outfits
• 1 Strappy sandals or wedge heel – To dress up those dresses if you like.
• 1 Runners or water shoes if you’re heading out on adventures

Men

• 3 Swim trunks
• 2-3 Casual dress shorts
• 3-4 Lightweight button up short sleeved shirts
• 3 T shirts
• 1 Dressy jeans and/or nice pair of casual pants
• 2 Pairs of flip flops – a pair for the beach and a pair to go for dinner in
• 1 Fancy shoes – To dress up those jeans or casual pants.
• 1 Runners or water shoes if you’re heading out on adventures

In general, The Island is very casual and well, “Islandy”. The vibe is very easy going as you’d expect from any Caribbean Island. As a rule of thumb, we approach our restaurant choices with a “smart casual” mindset and go from there.

There are some fantastic high end restaurants on The Island, that if you want to get fully dolled up and decked out for, go for it! There’s some fabulous Island Resort Glam to be seen! But for the most part, jazzing up your smart causal outfits with some accessories is more than acceptable.

To help you get started planning your perfect trip, be sure to head over to our Ultimate Turks and Caicos Guide for full, in depth information on what you can expect on your holidays.

BEACH ETIQUETTE TIP: One little side note. While the above info is mostly catered to evening dining, lets face it, you’ll likely be at the beach for lunch most days, it’s important to remember that not everyone who’s heading to the restaurants for breakfast or lunch have spent their day at the beach. As a courtesy to those non-beaching patrons please remember this little tip; Cover your bums when dining out. No matter how casual the restaurant or beach bar is, just dry yourself off and throw on your cover up and/or t shirt before sitting down to order. The local diners will appreciate this small courtesy.

We hope this entry has relieved a little anxiety on what to pack! If so, get those flights booked and start packing!