. If you are planning a trip to Central America, I have compiled a list of must-have items to bring with you.
- Bug Spray – Yes, you will need it if you are sleeping in an area that is prone to mosquitoes. You will also need this if you plan on hiking in the mountains or on a volcano.
- Sun Screen – Whether at sea or in areas that are higher in elevation, you will need lots of sunscreen. While in Belize, I booked a 7 1/2 hour snorkeling tour and it was highly recommended that we heavily apply sunscreen at the beginning of our journey, instead of during so that we protect the barrier reef. You want to ensure that your sunscreen is waterproof and sweatproof. Below is the screen that I use and LOVE! No white cast, no greasiness, just perfection. Which is great for brown skin.
- Wipes, Toilet Paper – Whether it’s spills, sweat, or going to the bathroom you will need wipes and toilet paper. If you are traveling through countries such as Guatemala and Honduras, the restrooms at the rest-stop will not provide this for you, unless there is a charge to use the bathroom, even then, there still might not be any toilet paper. You can buy this before you leave your home base or arrival at the airport.
- Hot Spot/SIM Card– Certain US Carriers will have international service for you to use on your cell phone plan. If your carrier does not or you are from another country you can always purchase a SIM once you arrive in the country. Many areas in Central America have cell phone reception, which is good, or there is wi-fi in many restaurants. Here is a free 30-day trial with Express VPN. I have used this VPN for over a year now and it is the best VPN company. Click HERE to get your first 30-days free.
- Wash cloth and Towel (win if it doubles as a beach towel)- If you are staying in hostel, your hostel may provide it, but the majority of hostel’s do not provide a towel. Between the sun, humidity, and sweat from walking/hiking you will want to take a shower with a proper towel. If you decided to sun bathe or hit up the beaches, towels are usually provided unless you are staying at a hotel and resort with a pool or beach access. Backpacker’s and guest will either need to pay for a rental towel, (some places will charge an entrance fee), or provide your own towel to use.
- Laundry Bag – My Laundry is one of my favorite and ultimate must-haves when traveling. Keeping my dirty clothes separate from my cleans ones, while using a reuasebale bag is a win/win. It also ensures that all your clothes are kept together and weighed properly when you are giving them to the hotel, hostel, or laundry service to wash. This bag keeps the smell in and is also washable.
- Compression Bag and Vaccum– I always over pack. Even for day trips. Having a compression bag and vaccumm has allowed for me to fit more items into my carry-on and suitcase. For extended trips, I have more room to buy souveniers for my family and friends.
These items will save you tremendously when traveling through Central America, if you are an extended traveler these items are 100% a must-have. I will say that traveling wipes are EVERYWHERE, and you can purchase them abroad, but they may be a bit more expensive in other countries.
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