All-inclusive resort vacations are the ultimate escape for rest and relaxation! The best part is not worrying about a thing—no cooking, no meal planning, just choosing between a lounge chair and the daily activities every morning. To truly maximize your downtime and avoid scrambling for overpriced essentials, packing right is key.
We’ve compiled the 21 absolute must-have items that will transform your affordable all-inclusive trip from great to unforgettable. Trust me, a little preparation makes a world of difference—especially with these essentials!
- 1. Insulated Tumbler (The Essential for Ice-Cold Drinks)
- 2. Versatile Beach Bag or Tote
- 3. Waterproof Travel Deck of Cards
- 4. A Great Book (or E-Reader)
- 5. Phone/Camera and Compact Travel Tripod
- 6. Two Pairs of Polarized Sunglasses
- 7. High-SPF Reef-Safe Sunscreen
- 8. SPF Lip Balm (Tinted or Clear)
- 9. Travel-Sized Bug Repellent (Wipes or Spray)
- 10. Mini DIY First Aid Kit
- 11. High-Capacity Portable Power Bank
- 12. Waterproof Pouch (Splash Protection for Valuables)
- 13. Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker
- 14. Packable Pool Float or Inner Tube
- 15. Reusable Snack Bags for Daytime Refueling
- 16. Quick-Drying Pool and Beach Sandals
- 17. Easy Slip-On Resort Cover-Up
- 18. Small Cross-Body Bag for Evenings Out
- 19. Minimalist Travel Wallet (Cash and Cards Only)
- 20. Lightweight Jacket for Evenings and A/C
- 21. Digital & Printed Copies of Travel Documents
All-Inclusive Resort Packing List
Many people, like myself, are staying at affordable all-inclusive resorts. A little rest and relaxation goes a long way and these 21 helpful items make a world of difference.
1. Insulated Tumbler (The Essential for Ice-Cold Drinks)
This is an absolute non-negotiable for all-inclusive travel to keep your tropical drinks ice-cold and reduce plastic waste.
Don’t forget your Insulated Tumbler! This is the ultimate pro tip for all-inclusive veterans. It keeps your cocktail or water ice-cold all day long, protects it from the elements, and is the easiest way to make your tropical vacation more eco-friendly by ditching single-use plastics.
2. Versatile Beach Bag or Tote
Stop making multiple trips back to the room! Pack a versatile beach bag or tote for days in the sunshine.
A spacious, lightweight beach tote is essential. Use it as your personal item on the flight to save luggage space, then load it up daily with your essentials: sunblock, books, and sunglasses for the pool or beach. Make sure you pack something that you don’t mind getting a little sandy!
3. Waterproof Travel Deck of Cards
A simple waterproof deck of cards is a low-tech lifesaver! Perfect for passing the time during rainy afternoons at the bar or quickly making friends with other guests.
Some easy entertainment from the airport to the room on a rainy day, we suggest purchasing a waterproof deck of playing cards to ensure they hold up throughout your trip. Not into playing cards? How about games like Phase 10, Uno, or a memory game for the littles!
4. A Great Book (or E-Reader)
You’ll want a distraction-free way to relax. While a paper book is nice, consider an e-reader (Kindle or iPad) to carry a whole library of books without sacrificing precious luggage space.
Relax your way through a good book -or two- on your next all-inclusive resort vacation. Remember that you can always swap books with someone you’re traveling with, or just opt for the e-reader.
5. Phone/Camera and Compact Travel Tripod
A small, inexpensive travel tripod is a game-changer for solo travelers and couples. Get stunning, perfectly framed photos of your trip without relying on strangers.
Almost every All-Inclusive Resort offers photographer sessions. I’ve done them and have really loved the way the photos of me and my family turned out… BUT don’t pay for expensive resort photo shoots!
I bought an awesome, inexpensive tripod from Amazon to bring on my trip this year so I could get the shots I needed for the blog without bugging my friends to take them for me. As it turns out, we love all of the photos we took with it. Another great option is the RINGO waterbottle, which acts as an insulated water bottle and a tripod in one! (code: KAITLYN10 for 10% off)
6. Two Pairs of Polarized Sunglasses
Protect your eyes! Bring at least two pairs of sunglasses—you WILL lose or break one.
Reasons why you need two? Because I may or may not have lost a pair on day one of our girls’ trip in Punta Cana a few years ago… Opt for polarized lenses for reduced glare over the water. Brands like Goodr offer a great quality-to-price balance.
7. High-SPF Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The sun is intense near the equator! And you’re body probably hasn’t seen the sun in months…
Do NOT buy sunscreen at the resort (it’s often astronomically expensive). Help make All Inclusive Resort travel more sustainable by packing a high-SPF, reef-safe mineral sunscreen (free of oxybenzone and octinoxate) to protect your skin and the delicate coral reefs. I’ve been loving ThinkSport because it lasts 80 minutes through sweat and swimming!
8. SPF Lip Balm (Tinted or Clear)
Sunburned lips are the WORST. A lip balm with SPF 15 or higher is crucial for protection and moisture. For a little flair, try a tinted lip balm with SPF.
The only thing worse than your back and shoulders being sunburnt is your lips. Be sure to include Chapstick with SPF in your packing plans to keep those lips silky smooth and full of moisture.
If you really want your lips to feel and look good, try a tinted chapstick with SPF. 15 SPF with a peachy, berry, or cherry tint should get the job done!
9. Travel-Sized Bug Repellent (Wipes or Spray)
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin a romantic evening! While most all-inclusive resort properties spray their property and a coastal breeze helps, you’ll be glad you packed bug repellent wipes or spray for humid dinners or jungle excursions.
Plain and simple, don’t let bugs ruin your stay. I’ve found myself lucky enough to stay at resorts right on the water, so the breeze tends to act as a bug repellent, but I’ve experienced a few nights of intense mosquitos that have caused me to pack bug spray or bug wipes for every vacation.
10. Mini DIY First Aid Kit
A small plastic baggie with essentials like pain relievers, indigestion relief (Tums), motion sickness pills, and band-aids is all you need for minor issues.
Hopefully, you won’t need to use any of the items inside, but just in case you do, you’re prepared! All-inclusive resorts always have a nurse on hand, and generally an infirmary, but if all you need is a Band-Aid or indigestion control, it’s certainly easier to help yourself.
11. High-Capacity Portable Power Bank
A portable charger (power bank) is vital for a day at the beach or an all-day excursion.
Can’t go wrong with the portable charger! Keep your phone charged for photos, music, and social media without having to run back to the room. My GoalZero Venture has kept me powered up for years while traveling, hiking, or simply on the go!
12. Waterproof Pouch (Splash Protection for Valuables)
Don’t let a splash or a sudden downpour ruin your electronics.
This small, inexpensive item is a must-have for all excursions, especially boat trips, catamaran rides, or waterfall treks. It guarantees your phone, cash, and keys stay dry, ensuring you don’t lose all those incredible trip photos due to one slippery moment.
It’s also a helpful tool to have while swimming at the resort. Although your All-Inclusive Resort does everything in its power to keep you and your belongings safe, you can’t trust everybody. Carry youur valuables with you!
13. Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker
Enjoy your own vibe! Respectfully…
While resort music is fine, a mini waterproof speaker is perfect for your beach chair or private balcony. Set the tone for your vacation, or use it to play your favorite playlists while getting ready for your night out. Just remember to keep the volume respectful of your neighbors!
14. Packable Pool Float or Inner Tube
Maximize your pool relaxation time with as little stress as possible!
While some resorts have communal floats, they are often in high demand. Packing your own cheap, inflatable floatie means you always have a comfortable spot in the pool.
Pro-Tip: Once deflated, it also works as extra padding or a comfortable seat at the beach or airport!
15. Reusable Snack Bags for Daytime Refueling
Stop overspending at the airport and avoid mid-day hunger pangs!
Use these wide-base reusable bags to pack snacks for your flight, and then use them at the resort. You can easily grab fruit or crackers from the breakfast buffet to bring on excursions or to the beach, ensuring you always have a treat for yourself or the little ones.
Also, think about your late-night cravings! Although most all-inclusive resorts do account for this with some form of a snack bar, you can have all the treats you need if you remember baggies!
16. Quick-Drying Pool and Beach Sandals
Keep your nicer footwear dry and sand-free. Don’t forget your beach shoes!
Bring shoes you plan on wearing exclusively to the pool and beach. Look for Croc sandals or water-friendly slides (Birkenstocks make great ones!)—they’re comfortable, dry quickly, and are easy to rinse off the day’s sand and chlorine.
17. Easy Slip-On Resort Cover-Up
A comfortable, quick cover-up is your daytime uniform!
Pack a few simple options—they are essential for gaining access to midday resort restaurants and are the perfect quick layer for walking around the property or taking a break from the sun. I love a meshy dress that isn’t too hot in the midday sun but flatters everybody type!
18. Small Cross-Body Bag for Evenings Out
You don’t need a bulky purse when everything is included. A small cross-body bag is the ideal size for a night out at the resort.
I’ve forgotten to pack an evening bag on more trips than I can count! Don’t forget your small cross-body bag when visiting an all-inclusive resort. I love this one because it can be worn multiple ways and it securely holds your phone, lip gloss, and minimalist wallet, leaving your hands free for a drink or a dance.
19. Minimalist Travel Wallet (Cash and Cards Only)
Leave your everyday wallet at home to limit the risk of losing important items.
Don’t pack whatever you normally carry your day-to-day in. Only pack the essentials: ID, one credit card, health insurance card, and cash for tipping. This slim strategy can simplify your life and might even fit securely in your pocket, eliminating the need for a separate bag!
20. Lightweight Jacket for Evenings and A/C
A lightweight jacket might not be on the list when you’re thinking about tropical climates…
Even tropical climates get breezy at night, and indoor restaurants can be aggressively air-conditioned. A light jacket or cardigan will keep you comfortable. A simple white denim jacket is a great choice, as it’s warm enough and instantly dresses up any casual outfit.
21. Digital & Printed Copies of Travel Documents
For peace of mind, make copies of your passport and flight/hotel confirmations.
Keep a physical copy separate from the originals (e.g., in your checked bag) and email a digital copy to yourself and a trusted family member. Having these accessible is absolutely crucial in the event of loss or misplacement.
Conclusion
Stop stressing over what to pack and start dreaming of that sun-drenched lounge chair! By including these 21 carefully curated items on your next trip, you’re not just filling a suitcase—you’re guaranteeing a frictionless, fun, and affordable vacation.
Forget frantic runs to the resort gift shop; with your insulated tumbler, portable speaker, and trusty travel documents secure, you’ve done the thinking. Now, the only thing left to do is relax and enjoy the all-inclusive paradise you deserve.