Planning a vacation to Saint Thomas? You might be thinking it is not worth bringing a checked bag since you do not need a ton of clothes. But for our family of four, one checked bag is perfect and justifies its own cost. Everything on the island is more expensive, and Saint Thomas is no exception. Plus, with a checked bag you can bring full-sized bottles instead of being stuck with 3oz carry-on limits. Some links in this article are Amazon affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you buy through them at no extra cost to you.
6. Deep Woods Off
In the evenings, there is about an hour when mosquitoes are vicious in the Virgin Islands. DEET is the only substance tested to work effectively against these pests. Aerosols are not permitted in luggage, so be sure to pack the spray bottle type. The price at home is usually less than half of what we found on the island.
5. Mask, snorkel, and travel fins
The Virgin Islands have excellent snorkeling right from shore. Renting gear can be costly, with daily rental fees often equaling the purchase price of your own set. The first time we visited, we did not pack fins and we regretted it. Fins mean you can double or triple the distance you can safely swim from shore.
4. Packable beach chair
Many of the most beautiful beaches in the Virgin Islands are free to access, but there is not always a place to sit. We fit two of these in our checked luggage along with all our snorkel gear and everything else on this list.
3. Full-size reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen on the island can cost double or triple the mainland price. The sun in Saint Thomas is intense — even on an overcast day we sunburn quickly without protection. Our recommended reef-safe sunscreen has a non-greasy feel that makes reapplying less annoying.
2. Underwater camera
Touch screens just do not work well below the surface. The islands are known for stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. We bought our underwater camera three years ago and have used it on four vacations since. It still works and takes great pictures.
1. Inflatable pool float hammocks
Perfect for lounging in the calm waters off one of the many beaches or floating in the pool. They pack small, inflate fast, and feel like a luxury that costs almost nothing.
Bonus: clear-bottom inflatable boat for kids
If you are traveling with toddlers or kids under seven, a clear-bottom inflatable boat lets them sit comfortably beside you while you snorkel. Great way to share the experience and enjoy the many shallow reefs not far from shore.
Our bottom line
One checked bag for the family, packed with the right items, pays for itself on the first beach day in Saint Thomas.
This list is the Saint Thomas version of our broader Caribbean checked-bag essentials, which is where we explain the full one-bag strategy for island trips.