The weather is getting cooler and cooler and if you’re anything like me, you’d be thinking of leaving the cold weather for somewhere warm and tropical. If you’ll be traveling to the islands or even Florida soon, there are a few things you shouldn’t leave home without. Think endless summer and you should be prepared, but unless you’ve lived near the Equator, there are probably several key items you haven’t even considered. We’ve all seen the vacation photos of friends who looked like absolute beach goddesses the entire time, when often we might feel more like a literal hot mess. Here are 6 items you need in any tropical destination. Toss them in your luggage for an effortless vacay!
1. Three types of sunscreen: body, face and hair- Sunscreen meant for the body simply will not due for the face! Unless you want to be a greasy, broken out mess, look for a sunscreen formulated specifically for the face. It should be non-comedogenic , meaning the ingredients won’t clog your pores. Go to Sephora, Ulta or perhaps even Amazon for a sunscreen spray for your hair, particularly if it’s heat-damaged or color-treated. The sun, salt and chlorine will wreak havoc otherwise.
2. More than one bathing suit & several cover ups: Ladies, you do not want to spend prolonged periods of time in a damp swimsuit, if you know what I mean! What better way to ruin a vacation than to have to head to the nearest drugstore for some personal care remedies?! Bring multiple flattering suits and an array of cover-ups (some for beachside, some that would be appropriate for dinner afterward) because you’ll likely be living near the water.
3. Accessories: Even if you aren’t swimming, you’ll be sweating, and if you’re not sweating, you’ll still be in a humid climate, so ditch the makeup and opt for glam accessories! (If you must wear makeup, bring lighter formulas, like powder foundations and lip glosses.) Big, fabulous sunglasses, hats and earrings take the focus off imperfections, be it skin or body insecurities.
4. Shoes appropriate for the sand: Whether you’re at the beach or not, you will be walking on sandy ground. Skip the heels and opt for wedges and embellished sandals.
5. An umbrella: Depending on the time of year you’ll be visiting, you could encounter daily torrential rains, but only for a short while. Don’t get stuck in a downpour after you’ve finally tamed your lion’s mane (thanks to the humidity)! Be prepared with a small umbrella to keep in your purse. An umbrella can also provide shade when you’re stuck in direct sun during the heat of the day. Localized flooding in parking lots is also common, so plan your footwear accordingly.
6. Water & a personal fan: The heat is no joke. Nearly 700 people die yearly due to complications from extreme heat. The key is to hydrate, so even if you’re not thirsty, drink up (and alcoholic beverages don’t count)! Toss a small, battery-operated, personal fan in your handbag, too. If there’s a power outage from a storm, you’ll be glad you brought it. At the very least, you don’t want unsightly sweat rings on your blouse while out shopping or exploring.
While it’s always cooler in the winter in the tropics, be sure that you still have these necessities because you’re going to need them.
