Aruba packing list for families
Aruba is dry, sunny, and breezy most days, which changes what you pack more than you might think. Here is what our family brings for beach days, snorkeling, and a trip into Arikok.
Photo by Bernin Uben on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Aruba
- Aruba is breezy almost every day, which feels wonderful but sends sun hats flying. Pack hats with chin straps for the kids and a clip for your own.
- Flights home pass through US Customs preclearance at the Aruba airport, so the departure process takes longer than people expect. Plan to arrive early and keep the kids' passports handy.
- The trade winds make the sun feel milder than it is. I reapply sunscreen on a schedule here rather than waiting until someone looks pink.
Aruba
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Carry-on8
Clothing4
Shoes2
Beach & pool10
Little ones4
Health & toiletries5
Documents & tech2
Island whites
White, sand, sea glass, coral
For the grown-ups
- Linen shirt or linen set
- A white cover-up dress
- Leather slides for dinner
For the kids
- Seersucker or linen shorts
- Matching-print swimsuits
- Soft cotton sundress
For photos
- Everyone in white and one pop of coral
- Shoot at golden hour on the sand
Aruba weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 86°F 30°C | Dry, sunny, and breezy, with comfortable evenings | Carnival season, with parades building toward the Grand Parade before Lent |
| February | 86°F 30°C | Dry, sunny, and breezy, with comfortable evenings | Carnival season, with parades building toward the Grand Parade before Lent |
| March | 87°F 31°C | Dry, sunny, and breezy, with comfortable evenings | Carnival season, with parades building toward the Grand Parade before Lent |
| April | 88°F 31°C | Dry, sunny, and breezy, with comfortable evenings | |
| May | 89°F 32°C | Hot and sunny with strong trade winds; rain is rare | |
| June | 90°F 32°C | Hot and sunny with strong trade winds; rain is rare | Dera Gai harvest celebration on June 24 |
| July | 90°F 32°C | Hot and sunny with strong trade winds; rain is rare | |
| August | 91°F 33°C | Hot and sunny with strong trade winds; rain is rare | |
| September | 92°F 33°C | Hot and sunny with strong trade winds; rain is rare | Calmer winds and the warmest water for snorkeling |
| October | 91°F 33°C | Hot with the year's few showers, usually brief | Calmer winds and the warmest water for snorkeling |
| November | 89°F 32°C | Hot with the year's few showers, usually brief | |
| December | 87°F 31°C | Hot with the year's few showers, usually brief | Holiday season with festive lights in Oranjestad |
Aruba with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Aruba with kids?
Great year-round. Dry, sunny, and breezy, with comfortable evenings
What's the weather like in Aruba?
Typical daytime highs range from about 86°F (30°C) in January to about 92°F (33°C) in September. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Aruba?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Aruba?
None. Aruba uses the same plugs as the US.
What's your top tip for Aruba with kids?
Aruba is breezy almost every day, which feels wonderful but sends sun hats flying. Pack hats with chin straps for the kids and a clip for your own.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.