The Ultimate Cuba Packing Guide

Spread the love

Cuba should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s a beautiful country with amazing people and sights, and so much history. The current economic crisis and past U.S.-Cuban relations tends to “scare” some people away from visiting, but it’s definitely possible to visit Cuba! Of course, it’s still a country frozen in time, so you won’t have many of the same comforts as you would back home. Basic necessities will be difficult/impossible to access, so you will want to make sure you have everything before landing in Cuba. This is the ultimate Cuba packing guide:

Cuban Visa: This is a no brainer. You will need to purchase your visa either online or at the airport (if this option is available through your airline). Make sure to order it well in advance to your flight departure, as delivery can take a few weeks. You will not be able to enter Cuba without this visa. For more information: https://cubavisaservices.com
D’Viajeros Form: Simple to fill out in just a few minutes, this is basically a passenger information form. Upon completion, you will receive a QR code which will speed up the process at Cuban customs. Fill out the form here: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
Copy or screenshot of your itinerary, proof of address, and flight information: While I was not asked to present this information, a customs officer in Cuba may ask you to show proof of departure and address where you will be staying.
CASH! This one is very important! Americans will not be able to use their credit cards in Cuba, as American banks will not function there. Take out all the money you will need and then some, in case of an emergency. For an 8 day trip, I took out about $500 and an additional $400 just in case. Also, make sure to carry smaller bills in good conditions. Breaking 50’s and 100’s will be difficult, and many will not accept any bills with rips or creases. If you are visiting from outside of the U.S., keep in mind that though your credit cards will work, many places still only accept cash. Euros are also widely accepted. As of January 2023, Cubans have the euro to USD conversion as 1 to 1, so you might be better off with USD.

5. Toiletries: As I mentioned, Cuba is going through a severe economic crisis, so basic things are all rationed or just impossible to find. Bring all the toiletries you regularly use at home — shampoo, mouthwash, soap, floss, toothbrush, hair gel, razors, feminine hygiene products, etc. If you are staying at “casa particulares,” you will likely find soap, but not shampoo/conditioner. Also, bring wet wipes and toilet paper. Yes, your accommodations will have toilet paper, but I advise bringing one roll to have on you when walking around town. Many places do not have toilet paper, or charge for a small square of it.

6. Medicine: Bring basic medicines like ibuprofen, imodium, dramamine, etc. Even if you don’t think you will use it, bring these in case of an emergency. Whatever you don’t use can be a great donation to the people, as even medicine is hard to access in Cuba.

7. Hand Sanitizer: Sanitizer is also hard to come by in Cuba, and it will come as a surprise that Cubans instead use a milder form of bleach as a substitute.

8. Sunscreen, sunhat, and sunglasses: The last thing you want on a vacation is to deal with sunburn!

9. Portable fan, or purchase a handmade fan from the markets

10. Swimsuit: Cuba has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, especially in Trinidad!

11. Mosquito Repellent

12. Comfortable walking shoes: Save the fancy heels for a different occasion. When walking around town, you will need breathable, comfortable walking shoes, as many streets are still cobblestone, especially in Trinidad. Sandals with a thick footbed, like Birkenstocks, would work.

13. Light clothes: In the words of my tour guide, Cuba has two seasons: hot and hotter. After all, you’re in the Caribbean. Feel free to pack shorts, dresses, light tees, etc. Basically, pack for summer. Evenings can get chilly though, so bring a light jacket or scarf.

Bring all your colorful wardrobe to match with the colors of Cuba! Don’t forget that hat to shield you from the sun though!

14. Plug adapter: Cuba uses the same outlets as the rest of North America, so make sure to bring the right converters if traveling from outside of this region.

15. Electronics and chargers: Aside from your phone, make sure to pack whatever electronics you’d need — laptop, camera, etc. Don’t forget a power bank if you plan to spend the entire day out.