The Crucial Clothing Etiquette Tourists Need To Know When Packing For The Caribbean

When you think of beautiful beaches in the Caribbean — with their astonishing sunsets and palm trees — you might easily assume that skin-baring outfits are the norm. You want to don those bikinis and swim trunks, and let your body take in the sun and the breeze without any obstruction. But, well, you have to be careful not to wear skin-revealing clothes like that in town, around churches, or local restaurants when you're in the Caribbean. While swimwear may be fine at resorts or beaches, you just shouldn't wear them once you're in public spaces — even in towns near the coast, or in open-air markets.

Many Caribbean communities have conservative clothing traditions that frown on exposing body parts like the shoulders and the knees. You could draw embarrassing stares, or even worse repercussions, if you walk around in skimpy bikinis or crop tops. So it's generally wise to bring along something that can cover your knees and shoulders, to keep your transitions between the beach and the town seamless and respectful.

You should know, first of all, that many Caribbean communities — especially rural towns — have strong religious customs, as religion is an important aspect of the people's cultural, social, and day-to-day activities. So, revealing clothing can be considered disrespectful. Even in hot weather, local women are known to wear dresses or long skirts and blouses. Men, on the other hand, often wear shirts and light pants. If as a tourist, you're in skimpy, tight, or revealing clothes, then you should understand that you'd be putting yourself up for unwelcome and discomforting attention. You might, in fact, be in for some loud lecturing.

In certain islands such as Barbados, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Trinidad, guests might be denied entry into some places or asked to cover up when entering places of worship. As long as it's anywhere beyond the beach (like the markets and local eateries), modesty is highly appreciated. Some places like Aruba even have codes of conduct explicitly prohibiting nudity and toplessness; ditto for the Island of Grenada, where you can also be fined for indecent dressing. Going against this clothing etiquette can lead to legal issues, or even social problems with locals who expect conservative dressing in public.

First things first, remember that the Caribbean is a tropical region. As such, it's wise to prepare for the heat by choosing light and breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or rayon. Specifically, it's smart to come along with maxi dresses or skirts, as well as loose lightweight pants, or shorts that cover the knees. A light shawl, or sarong, is equally a good addition, as they can be easily draped over the shoulders or the knees when necessary. With all these, you get to keep yourself cool, while equally blending in when around town or religious sites.

Additionally, don't forget to come along with sun protection essentials, such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen (with at least SPF35 as some tourists would suggest). Comfortable footwear is necessary too: Sandals, flat-heel shoes, and loafers would work well. Generally, when packing, just ask yourself if any of the clothes you have in mind are provocative or skin-baring. If that's the case, then you know it wouldn't be a thoughtful or sensitive choice for your Caribbean trip. To truly get yourself immersed in Caribbean culture and enjoy the Island's magics, all you need is simple: Conform to their norms, and you're good to go.