How Many Swimsuits You Really Need For A Week In The Caribbean (It's More Than You Think)

Planning a weeklong vacation to a bucket list-worthy Caribbean destination basically means preparing for paradise — crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and plenty of poolside relaxation. That said, while it might seem tempting to try and pack light — throwing in just one or two swimsuits into your suitcase — most seasoned travelers are well-aware that the reality of Caribbean living means you'll likely be in and out of water multiple times daily. Whether that means swimming in the ocean, lounging by the resort pool, or embarking on water activities like snorkeling or kayaking, one thing's for sure: You're bound to get (and potentially stay) wet.

So how many swimsuits should you actually pack to ensure you're always comfortable and ready for spontaneous water adventures? In most cases, travelers agree that bringing at least 3-4 swimsuits for a week-long trip is the sweet spot. While this might sound excessive to some, the truth is that swimwear doesn't dry quickly in the humid Caribbean climate — especially if you're staying in air-conditioned accommodation and hanging wet suits in your bathroom.

Let's be honest: Putting on a damp swimsuit isn't just uncomfortable. It can lead to some pretty unpleasant consequences like skin irritation and fungal infections. Plus, salt water and chlorine can also be incredibly harsh on swimwear fabrics, which ultimately makes rotation essential for keeping your favorite pieces in tip-top shape.

When it comes to choosing which suits to pack, the most important element to consider is the various activities you'll be enjoying throughout your Caribbean getaway. For active water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or jet skiing, pack at least one athletic-style suit that offers more support and coverage. For women, one-piece suits with secure straps or sporty bikinis with fuller coverage bottoms work best for these high-movement activities, ensuring nothing slips out of place while you're being active. For men, board shorts with secure waistbands and rash guards are ideal for more vigorous water activities.

On the other hand, for relaxed beach days and poolside lounging, you might prefer suits that maximize your tan and minimize tan lines. This is where your standard bikinis, bandeau tops, or swim trunks can shine. Just remember that what works for sunbathing might not be practical for a bumpy boat ride to a snorkeling spot — so always plan accordingly!

Along with that, travelers also recommend bringing at least one swimsuit that can double as casual wear with a cover-up or shorts. Style-wise, most tankinis or one-pieces transition nicely from beach to beachside restaurant without the need for a complete outfit change — just make sure you're fully dry before trying to grin and bear it through a two-hour dinner in a slightly damp suit.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the practical aspects of your swimwear choices. As a general rule, look for suits with quality stitching and durable fabrics that can withstand frequent exposure to salt water and sun. If you're traveling with children, there's also the safety issue of swimsuit colors that are incredibly dangerous for them to wear due to low visibility in water — with colors like light blue and white being particularly difficult to spot if a child goes underwater.

When it's time to head home, packing any leftover wet swimsuits shouldn't be too much of a hassle. For best results, try to dry your suits as much as you can before packing them up. If possible, wrap the swimsuit in a clean, dry towel, roll it up tightly, and apply pressure to absorb excess moisture.

If you're in a rush, a clever hack that travelers swear by for packing wet bathing suits involves using the shower cap from your hotel room. Simply squeeze out as much water as possible from your swimsuit, place it inside the shower cap, and twist it shut. This simple trick will ultimately help keep your wet swimwear separate from dry clothes, and prevent that damp smell from permeating your entire suitcase.