Pack for a U.S. territory with tropical weather and cash-only mountain towns – a slightly different list than a typical Caribbean resort trip.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Mineral (zinc oxide) sunscreen only – oxybenzone / octinoxate formulas are harmful to coral and are discouraged or banned at protected snorkel sites like Tres Palmas.
A light rain layer
Brief, heavy downpours are normal even in dry season – a packable rain shell beats an umbrella for hiking or beach days.
Water shoes
Useful for rocky beach entries (much of the west and south coasts), river tubing, and Camuy Cave’s wetter sections.
Cash for the mountains
Small colmados, roadside lechoneras, and rural balneario parking fees are often cash-only – carry small bills outside San Juan and the resort corridors.
A light jacket for the Central Mountains
Towns like Aibonito and Adjuntas run noticeably cooler than the coast, especially at night – see the NOAA Climate Table.
Insect repellent
Especially for El Yunque, river spots, and evening bio-bay tours.
A U.S. plug – no adapter needed
Puerto Rico uses standard 120V U.S.-style outlets.
A portable phone charger
Useful given periodic grid instability – see Renewable Energy for why.