Planning a Trip to Puerto Rico? 6 Things You Should Not Forget to Bring

Puerto Rico is a beautiful island destination in the Caribbean — warm year-round, full of incredible landscapes, and perfect for adventure. Whether you're planning to hike through El Yunque, stroll the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, or swim in a bioluminescent bay, what you pack can make or break the experience.

Here are the six things our guides always remind visitors to bring.

1. Comfortable Shoes

Puerto Rico is more than just beaches. Old San Juan's cobblestone streets will destroy flimsy sandals, and El Yunque National Forest requires proper footwear for safe hiking. Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers in addition to your flip flops. If you're planning any hiking tours, closed-toe waterproof shoes are ideal.

2. Sunscreen

The Caribbean sun is intense year-round. Use a reef-safe sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously before heading out. Puerto Rico has rules protecting its marine ecosystems, so reef-safe formulas (avoiding oxybenzone and octinoxate) are strongly encouraged and increasingly required at certain beaches.

3. Bathing Suits

You will find opportunities to swim, snorkel, or wade through rivers and waterfalls on almost any tour we run. Pack at least two bathing suits so you always have a dry one ready for the next adventure.

4. Light Clothing

Puerto Rico's warm, humid climate calls for lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen. Leave heavy jeans and thick layers at home. Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing will keep you comfortable through even the most active days on the island.

5. A Wide-Brimmed Hat

Shade is your best friend in the Caribbean sun. A wide-brimmed hat protects your face, neck, and shoulders during outdoor tours and is especially valuable at beaches and ruins where there's limited natural shade.

6. A Backpack or Day Bag

A comfortable daypack keeps your hands free on tours and hikes. Use it for your sunscreen, water bottle, snacks, camera, and a dry change of clothes. We recommend a water-resistant bag for tours that include waterfalls or water activities.

Bonus Essentials

• Sunglasses — UV protection for the eyes is just as important as sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent — Essential for rainforest and rural tours, especially near standing water
• A beach bag — A lightweight tote for beach days so you can leave the daypack in the vehicle

With the right gear, you can focus entirely on enjoying Puerto Rico. Book a tour with De Tour Con Ali and let us handle the rest — we bring the local knowledge, you bring the adventure spirit.