St. Barts packing list for families
St. Barts is a little more dressed up than most Caribbean islands, and getting there usually means a small plane or ferry. Here is how our family packs light, stays chic, and still has everything the kids need.
Kristina's notes on St. Barts
- Most families reach St. Barts on a short hop from St. Maarten on a small plane or by ferry. The planes have tight bag limits, so soft duffels and one carry-on per person make the connection much smoother.
- Outlets are French, and so is the voltage. Check that hair tools and kids' sound machines are dual voltage before you pack them, or plan to borrow from the hotel.
- Many hotels and restaurants close for part of September and October, and the holiday weeks book up a year out. For families, I love April and early May, when the water is calm and the island feels relaxed.
St. Barts
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Carry-on9
Clothing5
Shoes1
Beach & pool9
Little ones4
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech4
Riviera blues
White, Riviera blue, cream, lemon
For the grown-ups
- Striped linen and white denim
- A breezy midi dress
- Espadrilles you can walk stairs in
For the kids
- Blue-and-white stripes
- A lemon-print dress or shirt
- Sandals with a back strap
For photos
- Blue, white, and one lemon accent
- Early morning, before the crowds
St. Barts 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 | 82°F 28°C | Dry season with steady trade winds and sunny, comfortable days | St Barth Music Festival with concerts around the island |
| February | 82°F 28°C | Dry season with steady trade winds and sunny, comfortable days | |
| March | 83°F 28°C | Dry season with steady trade winds and sunny, comfortable days | St Barths Bucket Regatta, with superyachts racing just offshore |
| April | 84°F 29°C | Dry season with steady trade winds and sunny, comfortable days | Les Voiles de St Barth sailing regatta Calm, clear water and easier dinner reservations after the winter rush |
| May | 86°F 30°C | Warm and calmer, with occasional showers and quieter beaches | Calm, clear water and easier dinner reservations after the winter rush |
| June | 87°F 31°C | Warm and calmer, with occasional showers and quieter beaches | |
| July | 87°F 31°C | Hot and humid with passing showers; hurricane season underway | |
| August | 88°F 31°C | Hot and humid with passing showers; hurricane season underway | |
| September | 88°F 31°C | Peak hurricane risk; many hotels and restaurants close for part of this stretch | |
| October | 87°F 31°C | Peak hurricane risk; many hotels and restaurants close for part of this stretch | |
| November | 85°F 29°C | Peak hurricane risk; many hotels and restaurants close for part of this stretch | |
| December | 83°F 28°C | Dry season with steady trade winds and sunny, comfortable days | New Year's week in Gustavia harbor, lined with yachts and fireworks |
St. Barts with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit St. Barts with kids?
The best time is Dec–Apr. Dry season with steady trade winds and sunny, comfortable days
What's the weather like in St. Barts?
Typical daytime highs range from about 82°F (28°C) in January to about 88°F (31°C) in August. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for St. Barts?
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 St. Barts?
Type C/E, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for St. Barts with kids?
Most families reach St. Barts on a short hop from St. Maarten on a small plane or by ferry. The planes have tight bag limits, so soft duffels and one carry-on per person make the connection much smoother.
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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.