Wondering what to pack for a trip to the Dominican Republic? Use my Dominican Republic packing list for clothing, must-take items, and even what you should leave at home. Plus, cute outfits based on my stay for a week spent hopping across different cities and islands!
And if you enjoy this post, you'll love my DR solo travel itinerary, too!
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How to Dress for Vacation in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has warm weather year-round, with the lowest lows in the high 60s and the highest highs in the low 90s. Though it almost always feels like summer, there are two distinct seasons with regional variations: rainy and dry.
On the south and east coasts, where you'll find popular destinations like Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and La Romana, the rainy season lasts from May through October, which overlaps with hurricane season.
Generally, you'll want to dress comfortably for the warm weather and prioritize natural fabrics like cotton and linen, with varying levels of modesty depending on your activities. A swimsuit and cover-up may suffice for the all-inclusive resorts scene, while you'll want to wear casual clothing like a dress or top and shorts for touring the capital museums.
Use my list of activities in Santo Domingo to help style your outfits!
What to Wear: Clothing Checklist for Dominican Republic
- Athleisure and swimwear for beach days and active excursions
- Comfortable walking shoes like these cushioned sandals
- Small crossbody bag, bum bag, or backpack
- Sunglasses and sunhat - I have traveled all over the world with this wide-brim visor and love it because it shades my entire face and neck, and packs completely flat!
- Two breezy outfits per day, think:
- Co-ord sets
- Jumpsuits or rompers for evening
- Easy sun dresses
I packed for a week in DR in just a carry-on bag. Read my carry-on packing guide for my top secret tips to slaying despite baggage restrictions!
DR Travel Must-Haves
Bug spray for mosquitoes and flies, especially when you're away from the resort areas. These all-natural bug repellent stickers work really well for me!
Cash to convert to Dominican Pesos. You can do this at your local bank with advance notice before departure, or at the airport once you arrive. Businesses in less busy areas like Miches are often cash-only.
Credit card to earn rewards on your vacation shopping 😊. I've used the Chase Sapphire Reserve for many years and cashed in my points for flights and luxury hotel stays.
Door stopper for extra peace of mind, whether you're staying at a hotel or Airbnb
Handheld fan to keep cool, especially if you're not used to hot, humid climates.
Passport and any necessary entry documents if you're coming from outside the country--yes, that includes the United States.
Power bank to stay charged for snapping Instagram pictures and TikTok videos while sightseeing--I use and recommend this multi-prong power bank because it plugs directly into a standard wall outlet to recharge!
Travel-size toiletries and cosmetics, and don't forget hand sanitizer and sunscreen to protect your skin for all those sunny beach days. This lotion stick is so convenient to pack because you don't have to worry about leaks, and it's TSA-compliant.
Here's how to pack beauty products in your carry-on like a professional traveler!
What Not to Bring to Dominican Republic
Heavy clothing items like thick outerwear or blue jeans
Flip flops for formal settings. The tropical vibe may have you feeling your most relaxed, but some venues do require more conservative dress, including closed-toe shoes.
Heavy makeup and thick moisturizers, because you will sweat them off
Synthetic fabrics that will trap heat and moisture
Remember to leave room in your luggage for souvenir shopping and local products to take back home!
Cute Put-together Outfits for Ladies
Read my Montaña Redonda review before you go!
Check out my visitor's guide to Los Tres Ojos National Park!
Check out the best day trips from Punta Cana to complete your trip!
Need more ideas for your travel wardrobe? Check out my Caribbean beach vacation outfits guide next!
Frequently Asked Questions
You can either order Dominican pesos from your local bank or take your native currency and convert it at the prevailing exchange rate to RD$.
Now that you know what to pack for vacation to Dominican Republic, I hope you have the best time. And sharing is caring, so be sure to pin this DR packing list for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Ask me a question!