Planning a weeklong vacation to a bucket list-worthy Caribbean destination basically means preparing for paradise — crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and plenty of poolside relaxation. That said, while it might seem tempting to try and pack light — throwing in just one or two swimsuits into your suitcase — most seasoned travelers are well-aware that the reality of Caribbean living means you’ll likely be in and out of water multiple times daily. Whether that means swimming in the ocean, lounging by the resort pool, or embarking on water activities like snorkeling or kayaking, one thing’s for sure: You’re bound to get (and potentially stay) wet.
So how many swimsuits should you actually pack to ensure you’re always comfortable and ready for spontaneous water adventures? In most cases, travelers agree that bringing at least 3-4 swimsuits for a week-long trip is the sweet spot. While this might sound excessive to some, the truth is that swimwear doesn’t dry quickly in the humid Caribbean climate — especially if you’re staying in air-conditioned accommodation and hanging wet suits in your bathroom.
Let’s be honest: Putting on a damp swimsuit isn’t just uncomfortable. It can lead to some pretty unpleasant consequences like skin irritation and fungal infections. Plus, salt water and chlorine can also be incredibly harsh on swimwear fabrics, which ultimately makes rotation essential for keeping your favorite pieces in tip-top shape.
Choose versatile styles for different activities
Other important details when choosing your Caribbean swimsuits
Lastly, don’t forget to consider the practical aspects of your swimwear choices. As a general rule, look for suits with quality stitching and durable fabrics that can withstand frequent exposure to salt water and sun. If you’re traveling with children, there’s also the safety issue of swimsuit colors that are incredibly dangerous for them to wear due to low visibility in water — with colors like light blue and white being particularly difficult to spot if a child goes underwater.
When it’s time to head home, packing any leftover wet swimsuits shouldn’t be too much of a hassle. For best results, try to dry your suits as much as you can before packing them up. If possible, wrap the swimsuit in a clean, dry towel, roll it up tightly, and apply pressure to absorb excess moisture.
If you’re in a rush, a clever hack that travelers swear by for packing wet bathing suits involves using the shower cap from your hotel room. Simply squeeze out as much water as possible from your swimsuit, place it inside the shower cap, and twist it shut. This simple trick will ultimately help keep your wet swimwear separate from dry clothes, and prevent that damp smell from permeating your entire suitcase.
