The Ultimate Caribbean Destination Wedding Packing List

If there’s one thing we know in the Caribbean, it’s how to prep for sunshine, sea breezes, and a celebration that moves to its own tempo. This is the Sandals Resorts way: good vibes, no worries! But while our team has thought of just about everything to make your big day completely stress free, packing smart is still the first step. The right essentials can make all the difference, especially when you're heading somewhere far from home. That’s why we’ve put together this Caribbean destination wedding packing list. It’s tailored to the unique pace and activities of a tropical wedding, with thoughtful reminders for what to bring and what to leave at home. Whether you’re the ones tying the knot or a guest, you’ll find plenty of helpful tips to get you beach-ready and aisle-ready in one go.

Wedding Day Essentials

Whether your ceremony is on the sand or in a garden surrounded by swaying palms, comfort and confidence go hand in hand. Here’s what to pack to make sure you feel fully prepped when it’s time to say “I do.”

• Wedding attire: Lightweight fabrics like linen, chiffon, crepe, and silk blends will keep you cool without sacrificing style. Avoid anything too heavy or structured—Caribbean heat and heavy layers rarely mix well.
• Shoes: Sand-friendly sandals, flats, or block heels are best for beach ceremonies, while wedges or dressy loafers suit grassy or decked venues. Break them in before you leave.
• Accessories: Rings (most important!), earrings, veil or other hair accessories, cufflinks, tie bars, and heirloom pieces. Pack these in your carry-on for peace of mind.
• Emergency kit: Fill with wedding-day lifesavers like double-sided tape, mini sewing kit, safety pins, blotting papers, pain relievers, and a stain remover pen.
• Travel steamer or wrinkle release spray: Humidity can play tricks on even the best-packed outfits. A portable steamer or fabric spray will keep things fresh and photo-ready.

Documents & Travel Essentials

Keeping travel documents and legal paperwork in order is a vital part of your wedding prep, especially if you will be having a legal ceremony in the Caribbean. Take some time to double-check these before departure:

• Marriage license paperwork: Requirements vary by destination, so confirm ahead of time what’s needed for your wedding to be legally recognized.

• Passports and printed travel confirmations: Even if you’ve checked in online, printed copies are handy in case of any hiccups.

• Travel insurance documents: A smart safeguard for international travel.

• Prescription medications & small first aid items: Bring any medications in their original containers, and include basics like plasters, motion sickness remedies, and bug bite cream.

• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated while travelling is key.

• Packing cubes or organizers: Make unpacking easier so you can get straight to the good stuff (like your welcome cocktail!).

• Contact list of key vendors: While our Sandals Weddings team has you covered, it’s wise to have direct contacts for any third-party vendors.

Beauty & Getting Ready

Whether you're getting glam with the girls in your Sandals Resorts suite or relaxing alone with your beau on your terrace, having the right beauty items on hand makes the morning of your wedding even more enjoyable. Here’s what to include in your beauty and prep bag:

• Robes or coordinated loungewear: Lightweight and photo-ready, these make for beautiful getting ready shots.
• Favorite beauty products: If you swear by a certain brand or formula, bring it with you.
• Lightweight daywear: Easy pieces for the spa or pre-wedding errands.
• Touch-up items: Lipstick, powder, setting spray, hair spray will all help you feel polished all day long.
• Sunscreen and after-sun care: Opt for reef-safe formulas.

Tropical Vacation Essentials

Between wedding events and island adventures, there’s plenty of downtime to soak in the setting. Packing a few versatile pieces makes it easy to go from beach mode to celebration-ready without missing a beat.

• Multiple swimsuits: One for lounging, one for snorkeling, maybe one just for the photo ops. You’ll be glad to have options.
• Resort-appropriate coverups: Easy to slip on when heading to the bar, spa, or lunch by the pool.
• Flip-flops and sandals: Comfortable, breathable footwear is key. It’s also a good idea to bring a pair that can get wet and one for dressier occasions.
• Sun hat: Ideal for beach days, boat trips, and shielding your face during midday ceremonies.
• Sunglasses: Pack a backup in case your favorite pair takes a dip.
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag
• Outfits for welcome party, rehearsal dinner, and post-wedding brunch
• Breathable eveningwear: Think linen shirts, cotton sundresses, or flowing sets that feel as good as they look.
• Light sweater or wrap

Personal Touches & Keepsakes

Whether it’s handwritten vows or a small keepsake for your partner, these thoughtful details add warmth and meaning to your island celebration. They also make for beautiful photo opportunities!

• Vows or vow books: Handwritten or printed, bring them in a pouch or protective case to keep them crisp.
• Flat-lay items for your photographer: Invitation suite, ring box, heirloom handkerchief, or anything you’d love captured alongside your wedding details.
• Small gifts for your partner or bridal party: Personalized notes, jewelry, or something that reflects your destination.
• Guestbook or other guest memento

Common Mistakes Travelers Make When Packing for a Tropical Wedding

Even the most organized travelers can miss a detail or two—especially when juggling wedding prep and international travel. With that in mind, here are a few common errors to avoid when putting together your Caribbean destination wedding packing list.

• Packing only one outfit per day. Between beach time, wedding events, and unexpected invites (impromptu rum tasting, anyone?), it helps to have options. Bring a few mix-and-match pieces that work across settings.
• Forgetting to check voltage and plugs. If you’re bringing styling tools or chargers, double-check whether you’ll need an adapter. Some islands use U.K. plugs, others U.S.
• Preparing for luggage delays. Always pack essentials like rings, attire, and documents in your carry-on. Delayed luggage shouldn’t delay your celebration!
• Not preparing for humidity. Choose makeup, skincare, and fabrics that hold up well in tropical conditions.
• Overpacking. With so much included at Sandals Resorts, you can leave bulky extras behind. Focus on the pieces that matter most, and let us do the rest!

Whatever the style of your destination wedding, preparing with care helps you soak up every moment once you’re here. If you’re captivated by the idea of a tropical wedding, we want to hear from you! Visit our inquiry page, fill out the form, and let’s turn your dreams into reality.