You've booked the flights. The villa confirmation is sitting in your inbox. Now comes the part that somehow feels harder than it should: the suitcase.
Here's what we've learned after a decade of island living — you need far less than you think. The Caribbean rewards simplicity. A few well-chosen pieces that move between beach, lunch, and dinner will serve you better than a stuffed suitcase ever could.
The swimsuit that does everything
Start here. A one-piece with a good cut works poolside, under a sarong at lunch, and with a pair of earrings at the beach bar. Look for something reversible so you get two looks from a single piece.
A sarong (or two)
If there's one item that earns its place ten times over, it's a sarong. Wrap it as a skirt for the beach. Tie it as a dress for lunch. Drape it over your shoulders when the trade winds pick up in the evening. We always travel with at least two — one light, one bold.
One shirt that covers everything
An oversized linen or cotton shirt is the hardest-working piece in any island wardrobe. Throw it over your swimsuit walking to breakfast. Button it halfway for a market stroll. Roll the sleeves and tuck it in for dinner. White is the obvious choice, but a soft tie-dye adds personality without effort.
A dress you don't have to think about
One dress that works for a sunset dinner, a boat day, or a last-minute invitation you didn't plan for. Choose something in a natural fabric that breathes - you'll thank yourself at 2pm when the humidity hits.
