Starting my list - need help

[lovestj]

Ok, I know my trip is still pretty far out - but I am starting the packing list now. What are the things that you can't live without when you go to St John. Certain bug spray, sun screen, kind of cooler, camera, snorkeling gear, adult beverages (need recipes), etc.....

[Steve S]

I divide my gotta-haves into two categories... 1.Can't get/replace on the Island and 2. can get/replace on the island. For example:
Type 1 - Favorite tunes, cell phone, camera gear, money and passports.
Type 2 - Clothing, shoes, snorkel gear.

This methodology helps out with stress; a very short list of things to check 5 or 6 times (type 1) before you leave is easier to deal with. Also, if you want to lighten your packing, look at the Type 2 list and think "if I really need an extra _______, I'll just buy it.”

[Gromit]

In no particular order (some of my unusual necessities):

Ben's bug spray
Afterbite/topical benadryl
waterproof sun/sport block
crystal light individual packets to add to bottled water
Microwave popcorn
koozie
Baby powder
toe rings
cloth purse or small backpack (no leather)first aid kit
lip balm w/ spf
Aloe vera gel
dry bag
Equal sweetner
power/breakfast bars
cold brew ice tea bags
powdered gatorade
hat clip (to keep ball cap from flying off my head on a boat).
Ball cap
extra pair of RX sunglasses
walkie talkies
DVD's + portable player
eye shades (sun is bright in the AM)

And of course the usual multiple bathing suits, outfits, snorkel equip bags, camera and shoes (but I figured you guys have that stuff down already!)

You'll notice that all my food items are very light and portable.

227 days and counting for me!!

[California Girl]

Gromit - I was thinking of taking our walkie talkies too, but I was wondering how well they work on an island that has relatively little flat land. Do they work over all the hills and mountains???

[chrisn]

Cheap blow-up floats for the beach
SPF Lip Stuff
Leave-in Conditioning Spray

[AnyTing]

The last time family joined us on the island, we had 2 Jeeps and the family brought walkie-talkies so we could communicate while we drove. It worked well. They had never been before, so I was like the tour guide from up ahead in our Jeep,

"And on your left you will see....."

[Gromit]

Like Vicki we've used them when we've been in a group with multiple jeeps.

Don't count on them working across the whole island.

But they are great if you split up while shopping, one person gets dropped off to claim a beach spot while the other parks, etc. Especially good at the airport! It allows you to divide and conquer and still communicate.

We do try to use them discreetly (eg keep volume WAY down) but IMHO the indispensible and you can get good quality ones from Costco for almost nothing.

Like our Amex, we don't leave home without them!

[California Girl]

I'm glad to hear that about the walkie talkies. We find them indispensable too! We take them on road trips to talk from one car to another (like Vicki) , to Disneyland, and to trade shows, etc. I'm glad to know they'll work on STJ! Thanks!

[RickG]

I'm too obsessive - my packing list is at http://www.garvin.us/STJ/New_Visitors_G ... ml#Packing

Cheers, RickG

[Ron_L]

I used Rick's list and modified it to suit.

[mbw1024]

Things I love about Rick's list:

-He reminds me not to pack the washer/dryer!

-He considers bottle opener and corkscrew as toiletries!

[Kentuckygirl]

I love your list, Rick ... I have it bookmarked!

[mia]

Me too! ....mia

[islandgirl]

super info. will save it for future vacations. thanks so much rick!!!!!!!!! woo hoooooo

[cat]

Rick it sounds like your list is what we are all packing! Thank you for sharing!