travelling to cuba what to bring

What to Bring to Cuba: The Ultimate Cuba Packing List (2024 Update)

Cuba’s socio-economic landscape is complex. The ongoing economic situation means that many everyday items are not easily accessible. Things like toiletries, medicines, and electronics will be harder to find or more expensive than anticipated.

The Cuban Government also requires you to bring some documentation you may need to obtain before flying to the country. On top of that, you will have to deal with the country’s scarce infrastructure, which limits basic services (Internet, ATMs, etc.).

This article will teach you how to pack strategically for Cuba. We compiled the most complete list of things to bring to Cuba, including gifts for locals if you want to support them during your trip. We suggest only essential items; things you should take to the island based on our expertise and other travelers’ experiences.

Entry Requirements

The Cuba Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Visa)

An interesting fact about Cuba is that most visitors must obtain a Cuba Tourist Card or Cuba Visa .

You can get the Cuba Tourist from:

• Your airline.
• The Cuban Embassy or Consulate in your country.
• Online on Easy Tourist Card (recommended). They deliver the Cuba visa almost anywhere.

While traveling around the country, please keep it on you so it’s not lost or stolen.

Travel health insurance

Travel health insurance is one of the most important things to bring to Cuba. Not only does the Cuban law require it, but you will be protected.

We analyzed dozens of insurance providers for Cuba and recommend Insubuy , which offers plans starting at 8 USD per week per person.

Sanitary Statement and Customs Declaration

Everyone traveling to Cuba must also fill out the Sanitary Statement for Travelers  ( Declaración de Sanidad del Viajero ), a sort of health declaration form. You must also provide the Customs Declaration form.

To save some time and annoyance, complete the required documentation in advance on D’Viajeros , the government’s official site.

While the island’s landscape differs depending on where you’re staying, the climate is similar throughout. It’s usually quite hot.

In general, pack mostly lightweight clothing suitable for sweating in the sun.

Although Cuba is a safe country to visit , don’t wear too many eye-catching accessories. Consider leaving expensive jewelry at home.

You may wonder what to wear in Cuba for evening events or iconic venues like the Cabaret Tropicana. Well, just bring smart casual clothes, if not overly formal. There is no need to dress up.

However, consider that you can’t wear beach clothes or shorts at most evening venues.

Sunhats offer protection from the sun, which can be brutal in Cuba. They’re also rather fashionable on the island for both men and women.

Like sunhats, sunglasses will help protect you from too much sunlight. In Cuba, you will really need them.

However, the same line of thinking applies to sunglasses as jewelry. Consider leaving your more expensive pairs at home so they aren’t lost or stolen during your trip. You wouldn’t want them sinking to the bottom of the ocean or anything.

While traveling in Cuba, you’re likely to do a lot of trekking down rather dusty roads. It’s in your best interest to bring along some close-toed walking shoes for those occasions.

Something simple, such as a pair of New Balance tennis shoes for men or women , will work. They will also be suitable if you visit the more mountainous parts of Cuba for outdoor adventure.

Walking sandals

You’ll want to wear a comfortable and stylish pair of walking sandals while perusing shops and other touristy locations in Cuban cities. That’s if you even want to get out of those colorful classic cars in Cuba (tip: you should take a drive!).

KEEN men’s or Teva women’s are relatively inexpensive options that should remain comfortable after a day spent shopping.

• Flip-flops or water shoes

When exploring the beautiful Cuban beaches, a simple, cheap pair of flip-flops is essential for both men and women .

Remember that some swimming areas may be a bit rocky, so you may be better off wearing water shoes .

Do I need to remind you that Cuba has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean?

Officially, beaches are a no-no for you if you come from the US , although no one will watch you while on the island. For the lucky rest, don’t forget to pack your swimsuits!

Light jacket or sweater

Bring a light jacket or overshirt to wear at restaurants, buses, and hotels where the air conditioning may be very cold.

• Raincoat or umbrella

If you travel during the rainy season, bring a light raincoat or a compact umbrella to protect you from the occasional rain downpours.

• Blister bandages

Increased walking in Cuban cities can lead to blisters, especially if you’re not used to the climate or terrain.

Blister bandages will help you prevent foot discomfort. It’s a small addition to your travel kit that can significantly impact your overall experience.

Health and Hygiene

A filtered water bottle

Wait, what? Most people wouldn’t put a water bottle on their list of things to bring to Cuba.

We believe it’s a bad idea to travel without one. Water pollution in Cuba is still terrible . The supply of purified water is also meager.

If you don’t expect to have bottled water all the time, bringing your own filtered water bottle helps to eliminate some of the risks.

Mosquito repellent

Mosquito-borne diseases , such as dengue and Zika, are not uncommon in Cuba.

You must take whatever precautions necessary to repel mosquitoes. A simple bug spray is an essential thing to bring to Cuba. Make sure you use it every day and safely .

As with all tropical, sun-soaked countries, bringing and wearing appropriate sunscreen is important.

You don’t want to spend your vacation sunburnt and miserable.

• Hand sanitizer

Access to soap and water is limited in Cuba, and hygiene standards differ from what you’re accustomed to.

Hand sanitizer is nowhere to be found. As an alternative, locals use hypochlorite when available.

You should bring a pack of hand sanitizer to maintain good hygiene and prevent illnesses from surfaces, food, and interaction with others.

• Toilet tissues

Finding toilet paper in Cuba is complicated, except perhaps in high-end tourist facilities.

If you can, bring a travel-size pack of toilet tissues . You will thank us later.

Bringing a toiletries kit to Cuba is essential for several reasons, primarily due to availability and quality. Basic toiletries like shampoo, toothpaste, or deodorant are difficult to find in local stores.

Over-the-counter medicines

In some places, food and water in Cuba can carry diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid, and travelers’ diarrhea.

Although Cuba is praised for having a free healthcare system, the truth is that shortages of basic over-the-counter medicines are not uncommon . Therefore, you should always practice safe food and water precautions while traveling in Cuba.

If you get sick, you will want to have some over-the-counter medicines readily available.

Here are some medications you might consider bringing to Cuba:

• Pain and fever relief: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain or reduce fever, whether from headaches, muscle aches, or mild illnesses.
• Antihistamines : especially useful for allergic reactions, insect bites, or mild allergic symptoms.
• Antidiarrheal medication: Imodium or similar drugs can help manage mild cases of traveler’s diarrhea until you can access further medical assistance if needed.
• Motion sickness medication: if you’re prone to motion sickness, bringing medication like Dramamine can be beneficial, especially if you plan to take long drives or boat trips.
• Antacids : for digestive discomfort or heartburn due to changes in diet or unfamiliar foods.
• Basic first-aid items : bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape, and antibiotic ointment can help with minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters.

Electronics

Considering the country’s unique Internet landscape and restrictions, you should install a VPN on your phone, computer, or tablet.

With a VPN, you can bypass restrictions on certain content and everyday apps.

For example, many US-based websites, especially banking, streaming, and even travel sites, will not work in Cuba.

We recommend NordVPN to mask your IP address and avoid the geo-restrictions. It will also offer enhanced security and privacy while connected to the public Wi-Fi networks in Cuba.

• Portable charger

Bringing a portable charger means you are prepared for an emergency. Even if you cannot return to where you’re staying, you can keep your devices charged.

• Pin adapter

Cuba uses the same plug types as North America (Type A), which is great for people traveling to Cuba from Canada or the US.

Some outlets also accept European rounded 2-3 prong plugs, depending on where you stay. Please reach out to your hotel or casa particular and ask about it.

To be safe, bring a pin adapter to plug in your electronics.

Touring Around

Cash, always cash

Cuba is primarily a cash country. ATMs are old and scattered. Many facilities won’t accept credit or debit cards, especially if issued by American banks.

Therefore, expect to pay most of your trip to Cuba costs in Cuban Pesos. Upon landing on the island, exchange your home currency for CUPs (Cuban Pesos) !

The official place to exchange your money for CUP is called CADECA (Casas de Cambio). You can find them at airports, resorts and hotels, cruise ports, and other tourism facilities across the country.

However, you will be better off selling your home currency in the informal market. Just make sure you trust someone on the island to help you exchange your currency. It could be your host, a hotel staff, or a friend; don’t do it with random people on the street, please.

• Travel guide book

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Cuba. A travel guide pointing you in the right direction can be helpful, especially if you are backpacking Cuba alone.

Real Havana by Mario Rizzi promises to guide you away from the tourist traps and enjoy Cuba as Cubans do. You can also read our ultimate guide to the best Havana attractions .

• Spanish-English phrasebook

Unless you are fluent in Spanish, a Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook is a no-brainer.

Carrying one of these around will be incredibly helpful in communicating with Cubans, whether you have a simple question or need help in an emergency.

What to Bring to Cuba for Locals

Certain items that may be readily available and inexpensive in your home country may be hard to come by in Cuba. Many Cubans spend hours in long lines at stores to buy essential products you may take for granted, such as toothpaste, toilet paper, and painkillers.

Inflation, low wages, and shortages of almost everything have made it difficult for Cubans to access food, medicine, and other basic goods. Therefore, bringing a thoughtful gift will show your appreciation and meet your host’s vital needs.

That said, please don’t give gifts to everyone on the streets. It’s inappropriate and unsafe. Bring gifts to friends, some hotel staff ( don’t forget to tip them! ), your casa particular or Airbnb host , and other locals you have emotionally connected with.

Also, be mindful of any items the Cuban authorities may consider offensive or subversive. You don’t want to get your hosts into trouble!

Here are some ideas for gifts you can bring to Cuba:

• Clothing, shoes, flip-flops, and accessories.
• Hygiene products : toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, and other female hygiene products.
• Medicines : aspirin, ibuprofen, anti-diarrhea pills, band-aids, and vitamins.
• Sheets, pillowcases , and towels.
• Sweets : chocolate, candies, chewing gum.
• School supplies and toys for kids: pencils, pens, coloring books, notepads, crayons, action figures, puzzles, balls, etc.
• Electronics accessories : flash drive sticks, SD cards, old tablets or cell phones, used cameras, batteries, power banks, charging cables, and USB chargers.
• Non-perishable food : canned goods, peanut butter, dry soups, jelly, coffee, cereals, granola bars, powdered milk, etc.

Essential personal items you leave behind after your trip may also be appreciated.

Cuban Import Regulations

Please read the Cuban import regulations and the FAQ page on the official Cuban Customs website . They explain what you can legally bring to Cuba.

For example, you can’t enter any of the following items into the island:

• Certain products and by-products of plant and animal origin.
• Walkie-talkies.
• Stand-lone GPS devices.

The Complete Packing List to Cuba

Here is the full list of things to pack for Cuba. Review it, cross off the items you already have, and pack it up!

• Cuban Tourist Card (Cuba Visa)
• Travel h ealth insurance
• Traveler Sanitary Statement
• Sunhats (Our picks: Brooklyn Men’s Straw Sun Ha t and C.C Women’s Sun Ha t)
• Sneakers (Our picks: New Balance Men’s 990v4 and New Balance Women’s FuelCore Nergize V1 Cross Trainer )
• Walking sandals (Our picks: KEEN Men’s Newport and Teva Women’s Tirra Athletic Sanda l)
• Light jacket or overshirt
• Water filter bottle
• Mosquito repellant
• Over-the-counter medicines ( Acetaminophen , ibuprofen , antihistamines , Imodium , Dramamine , antacids , and basic first-aid items )
• Power adapter
• Gift for locals (items that are hard to get in Cuba)

Cuba is a wonderful destination. You’ll want to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy all the island offers. Hopefully, our guide on what to bring to Cuba will help you achieve just that. 

Feel free to share your thoughts below, and share this packing list for Cuba if you enjoyed it!

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About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

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60 comments.

Thanks for the great list. Heading to Veradaro later this month- are food shortages affecting tourist resorts? Should we bring non perishables / snacks?!?

I was wondering if nail polish and mascara would be good items to bring along with tooth paste and tooth brush.

Hello we are visiting friends near Havana I Would like to bring them a small portable sewing machine and a few spools of thread is this allowed?

I only exchange $100 to CUP, most of the stuff you can pay in USD in Cuba. Ex. Restaurants they’ll indicate two amounts, CUP and USD. USD amount is the blackmarket conversion. Same with local Gift shops they appreciate it more if you pay them USD and they convert with the current blackmarket rates which is higher than the official conversion.

You say that bring them a gift they normally don’t have in Cuba., but I don’t know what Cuba is short of other then food, and clothes

All types of toiletries and medicine such as pain/ fever relief, kids medicine can be added to the list

You mention bringing canned good and other food items to Cuba. There is no issue at Cuban Customs bringing these items in? Thank you…

I would like to know what currency people use to tip. I get it that Canadian currency is accepted, but because we don’t have a 1$ bill only a coin, I have read it’s not accepted. Should I than take a bunch of US $1 bills for tipping ?

Hi Lea, Yes, you can tip in USDs. Please, read our guide to tipping in Cuba .

I’ve just returned from Veradero and saw tips in toonies & loonies. The staff said they accept those as well as Euros then they exchange it with travellers or the Cambio currency in the resort. Hope that helps. Plenty of Canadians visitors.

Great tips, DoubleOO. Thanks for sharing!

Cash is great, but Cubans will appreciate receiving everyday items that are difficult or expensive to obtain, such as toothpaste, tampons, soap, and even clothing.

I am a dual citizen PL/USA but after reading through your website, I understand that I am bound by my American citizenship no matter what when travelling to Cuba. I am a Spanish teacher and I would like to learn more a culture so the category “supporting people” would work for us for the couple days we are in Havana, then we are planning to go to Varadero and sail for a week. We will hire Cubans to help as sail/cook and would that qualify? I see that Varadero Marina is on the prohibited list of buisnesses by Dept. ot State of USA. Thank you for clarify it for me, sending best wishes!

Hi Mirka, Having a full-time itinerary (6-8 hours) supporting private businesses should qualify for the Support for the Cuban People category. However, please notice that we are not able to provide any legal advice. Hope you understand.

Hello, I am fully vaccinated. I understand I need a negative per test to come into Cuba. What about coming home to Canada? Is there a place to get the test in Cuba and what is the cost? Thank You

hello, i have the 2 COVID vaccines and the booster and 10 days ago i got covid, hence i have a recovery certificate. Do i still need to have a negative PCR? the reason is that sometimes the PCR can be positive even after 1 month,,,and we are travelling in 1 week..Thank you!

Hi Ioanna, According to the latest Covid-19 regulations in Cuba , you still need to present a negative PCR test.

The Cuban travel website mentions that we do not need a negative PCR test to get there. Is this true? I’ve also called Sunwing multiple times and they’ve said every single time that I don’t need one but why does this article say that we need one?

Hi V, As of January 5, 2022, all travelers present a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours from the arrival date, regardless of vaccination status. Please, check out our updated guide to the current Cuba travel restrictions .

If you have a Visa bank Card that can be used as a ATM card through my bank Wells Fargo. Is that going to be a problem? For a 5 day stay would 2000 be sufficient in us currency? Thank you

Unfortunately, in Cuba, you won’t be able to use credit cards that were issued by American banks. To learn more about using money in Cuba, check out our guide to the Cuban currency and budget tips for Cuba .

Is there a beer shortage right now in Cuba (Guardalavaca area) ?

Hi Jimmy, We are not aware of any shortage in Guardalavaca these days.

Havana shopping. Besides your typical souvenir shops, there are flea markets and antique shops. However, I have heard there are restrictions on what you can take out of Cuba. Any idea where I can find something comprehensive? I would hate to buy some old books or antique/vintage ceramics or crystal and find I have to leave it at the airport.

Thanks in advance

Hi Brett, You shouldn’t have any issue taking out books and souvenirs as long as they are not valuable objets d’art. Here are two clarifying articles about it from the Cuban Customs: Allowed and not allowed articles . Article subjected to export requirements .

Be sure to take cash , Canadian or U.S. . We just returned from Caso Santa Maria and most time the internet was down. at the Bank to get Cuban currency

Hello! Thank you for these comprehensive guides. I’m confused about the microfiber towels you suggest. Are there not towels provided at hotels and resorts? Or are these for another purpose I’m just not thinking of? Thanks!

Hi EB, Hotels and resorts do provide you with towels. We recommend microfiber towels against the sweat from the extreme heat in Cuba. Perhaps we should have clarified that better. Thanks so much for your question!

Is wifi available in Veraderos? Is it expensive? Travelling there from TO next week. I am with Rogers, can I use my phone there? Thanks!!!!

WiFi should be available in Varadero. Prices may vary depending on the service you will be using (NAUTA card, the hotel’s WiFi network, etc.). Please, check out our ultimate guide to getting Internet in Cuba for more details.

Hope it helps!

How many suitcases can you bring to Cuba?

First visit to Varedaro,Is wi-fi available in hotels

My family and I will be bringing items for donations, like soap, reading glasses, socks, candy, tooth paste and tooth brushes, will that be an issue? Will anyone be offended ?

Hi Dee, Gifts and donations in Cuba are not expected but appreciated. No one should be offended. Instead, it will be helpful for the locals.

How much to purchase a straw hat while in cuba?

Hi Letoynia, The price could be anywhere from 5 CUC from street vendors to 15 CUC at retailers.

We are leaving for Cuba, for a two week stay, how much luggage are we allowed to bring? It is my husband and myself …also the weight of the luggage? I want to bring two suitcases, but my husband disagrees … please bring some light to our disagrement. Leaving from Montreal! THANK-YOU, Lucie

Hi Lucie, Each person can bring 25kg (55 lb) of personal belongings exempt from payment of customs duties. An additional 5kg (11 lb) as gifts may be exempt from customs duties too. Also, you can bring up to 10kg (22 lb) of medicines in a separate bag inside your luggage without paying customs duties for it. You will have to pay customs duties if your luggage weight exceeds those amounts. Here is more info on what you can import to Cuba within your luggage. Whatever you do, just make sure that your luggage doesn’t exceed the maximum amount of 125 kg (275 lb) per person allowed to bring to Cuba. Otherwise, the Cuban customs will seize some of your items 🙂 Hope it helps!

I need help with the luggage. With Southwest we can take (2) suitcases, of 50 lbs each. Are you saying that once in Cuba they may confiscate anything over the weight limit?

Hi Vivian, Anything over 125 kg (275 lb) per person. You should be fine 🙂

Good god I travell alone and could use another suitcase so I cant imagine not taking one a piece.

I’m a bit confused about the weight limits as well. 275 is great but it seems that anything over 110 may be subject to a $10 US per kilo charge. So if I have 120 lbs of clothes, electronics and gifts would I be charged $50 + ?

Every kilo over 30 kg (66 lbs) costs 10 CUC. Keep in mind that these limits are per person. Therefore, if two people travel with 120 lbs (60 lbs each), there won’t be any additional cost. If, on the other hand, one person travels with 120 lbs, then there will be an additional 10 CUC/kg over 30 kg, which would be approximately $240 CUC [(54 kg – 30 kg)*10].

I want to bring a western saddle and head stall as a gift, is this allowed? The saddle is worth about $200.00 thx

Hi Linda, We haven’t found any documentation regarding the import of those specific items, but I don’t think you will have any issue. Check out the official regulations on the allowed and not allowed articles and the items that need authorization . Hope it helps!

my health insurance is included in my plane ticket. so why do i need another insurance?

Of course, if your health insurance is included in your plane ticket, you won’t probably need another insurance.

Should you take all the cash you want to spend whilst in Cuba or can you get some money from ATM’s I’m travelling from the UK?

Hi Amy, If you have a credit card that was NOT issued by a US bank, you can use it in Cuba. ATMs are mostly available in popular tourist cities like Havana, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba. You should also be able to use the credit card at resorts, airports, or cruise terminals. However, keep in mind that Cuba is mostly a cash country. Read our guide to Cuban currency for more info on this matter: https://www.tourepublic.com/blog/cuban-currency/

Why is it a no no to swim if you are from the u.s.?

Hi William,

Unfortunately, if you are a US citizen, you are not supposed to go to Cuba as a “tourist”… which means that, as a US citizen, you shouldn’t (legally) go there to swim at the beach 🙁

Did you apply for a visitor visa? I assume you’re traveling from the states.

Hi Ali, If you are traveling from the states, you will need to apply for a visa (technically called “tourist card” in the case of Cuba). However, in some cases, you can also buy it from the airline. Hope it helps!

Just to let you know along with adapter plug you may need a voltage converter depending on where you stay their voltage is 220V and American and Canadian voltage is 110V

That’s a great tip, Debra! Definitely adding it to the article. Thank you!

Thought the TIPS section said their power is 110 same as US and Canada … (?) …

Hi Wayne, Yes, the power supply in Cuba is 110 volts. However, many modern hotels in Cuba have dual voltage with 220 volts sockets. Also, if you are staying in a casa particular, be aware that the air conditioning socket is for 220 volts 🙂

The swimwear section says beaches are a no-no if you are coming from the US….? Did i miss something there? Americans cannot go to the beach.?

yes! im confused by this too. what is the point of even going there then!

You might also like

Cuban Currency: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers (2024 Update)

Beyond the Ban: A Guide to Americans Visiting Cuba in 2024.

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THE ULTIMATE CUBA PACKING LIST: WHAT TO BRING TO CUBA

A packing list for Cuba is unlike any packing list you’ve ever assembled. Packing for Cuba, if you’ve never been there, is challenging, even more so if you haven’t researched the topic.

Cuba is unlike any other destination you’ve been to. It pays to be ready in order to guarantee a comfortable and memorable visit.

If you’re wondering what to bring to Cuba? I’ve put together a Cuba packing list that will both surprise you as well as be tremendously helpful once you arrive.

Table of Contents

Why do I even need a packing list for Cuba?

There are lots of reasons why you need a packing list for Cuba, but the main one is that the consumer products you are accustomed to in your country don’t exist in Cuba or are very difficult and expensive to obtain.

There is no such thing as the national drug store and supermarket chains common elsewhere.

You want to make sure you have everything you’ll need or want for a great Cuba visit. A Cuba packing list will help you identify the needed items and make sure you have them for your trip to Cuba.

What to wear in Cuba – the best clothes for your Cuba packing list

Cuba is hot…duh! You will need to protect yourself from the sun whenever you are outside.

A wide-brim hat is a must. So are sunglasses to shield your eyes from those UV rays.

If you plan to take the hop-on-hop-off bus that leaves from Parque Central in front of Hotel Inglaterra, it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella. The loop around Havana’s most interesting attractions lasts about 2 hours. If you sit on the top level you will roast.

Hop-on-hop-off buses are also available in other Cuban cities like Viñales and Varadero.

Cuba is also very informal. Dressing down is one of the best Cuba travel tips you will learn.

Granted, there are times in Havana where you can attend a world-class ballet performance at the National Theater and you may want to dress up a bit.

Or you may want to wear something nicer to attend the Vegas-like floor show at the historic Hotel Nacional. Still, tone it down.

I like to visit the El Zorro y El Cuervo Jazz Club on Havana’s cool 23rd street. It’s very casual. Havana’s nightlife is legendary.

Sundresses, shorts, T-shirts and other loose-fitting, breathable-cotton summer wear are best.

Footwear is important for comfortably exploring Cuba. As in any 500+ year old city, Havana has some uneven streets.

The charming city of Trinidad, the most perfectly preserved city in the Americas, has cobblestone streets.

Your footwear, sneakers, shoes or sandals , should have non-skid soles for safely gripping the streets and exploring the countryside.

Leave your sexy, smooth-sole, no-grip sandals at home. Bring something sturdy and, most of all, comfortable.

Whatever you pack, make sure to divide your items using packing cubes . These light-weight accessories keep you items separate so they are easy to get to and re-pack when you’re off to your next destination.

I am an unabashed fanatic of packing cubes. These were a game changer for me.

Key Cuba travel tip : It is easy and inexpensive to get your clothes laundered at your casa particular or “ casa ” for short. These are private sector accommodations similar to an Airbnb or guesthouse.

For those quick washes, however, rinse your garments in the sink using travel laundry detergent sheets . A few sheets go a long way and are easy to pack.

Want to experience Cuba? Join us on a Cuba Cultural tour.

Best over-the-counter products and medicine to pack for Cuba

You’re unlikely to get sick eating at the paladares, private sector restaurants, or casas.

However, you may need to adjust to a new and different food environment and for that reason you should bring medicine for an upset stomach.

Suggestions include Imodium , Pepto Bismal and Kaopectate .

Cuban cities are eminently walkable. And when you walk a lot, you can get blisters. Bring band aids or moleskins padding from Dr. Scholl’s. You can cut them to adjust to your needs. Keep a couple in your pocket for immediate use when needed.

You don’t want to miss the French-inspired architecture of Cienfuegos , visits to some of Cuba’s 9 UNESCO World Heritage sites or its magnificent national parks due to blisters.

And you certainly don’t want to miss visiting Havana’s many museums , exploring Old Havana on foot or indulging in Havana’s unique experiences just because your feet hurt!

Sunscreen is a must anywhere in Cuba. The ones with the higher broad spectrum SPF are best.

Feminine hygiene products like tampons and pads are not available in Cuba. Bring your own and leave whatever you don’t use.

Other commonly used products unavailable in Cuba include: aspirin or Tylenol and antibiotic ointment like Neosporin.

Keeping your hands clean is always a good idea under any circumstances. Enter hand sanitizer. I like the little Purell bottles that can hook on to things like bags or backpacks.

Disposable travel handwipes are another good option but more expensive.

Mosquitos are common in any hot and humid area and can carry diseases. Bring insect repellant . A spray or application before a hike in the country or a beach is highly recommended.

Key Cuba travel tip: Either purchase a first aid kit or create your own to take with you for any unforeseen event like bug bites, headache, upset stomach or foot blister.

Can you drink the water in Cuba?

As in many countries in the Americas, it is not safe to drink the tap water in Cuba. The water systems in Cuba are among the oldest in the Americas.

Fortunately, bottled water is readily available and reasonably priced at about $1 for a small bottle and $2 for the larger one, cheaper outside Havana.

Also, higher-end accommodations and paladares in tourist areas tend to have water filtration systems.

Havana’s best restaurants

Many casa hostesses boil water and then refrigerate it and pour it into a plastic bottle which reduces waste. You could do likewise.

Water purification products you could use for additional protection include the GRAYL Ultra Press, a portable water purifying system that I hear good things about.

Other water purification options include the Steripen that has been around for ages, and Lifestraw, a cheaper alternative which works well if you don’t mind drinking water through a straw.

Lastly, there is a slew of less expensive water purification tablets. Aguatabs is just one of many, many examples.

Many visitors to Cuba ask if they can drink the famous Cuban cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris made with ice? I have always done so and have never had an issue.

If you want to be extra cautious, stick to the excellent beer; Crystal and Bucanero. But, again, a high-end establishment that caters to tourists will likely have filtered water.

Key Cuba travel tip: The best places to stay in Cuba are casas particulars, privately owned homes or guesthouses. You can learn more about Cuban casa here . Book your Cuban casa at HOMESTAY.

What food can I bring to Cuba? Add these to you Cuba packing list

Cuba’s typical traditional food can be among the world’s most delicious cuisines. However, classic Cuban spices like cumin and bay leaves are in short supply rendering some traditional dishes bland.

If you prefer more flavorful dishes, you may want to bring your own spices to Cuba. These hot sauce pack are pretty useful.

If you are traveling between cities by bus or car, it is a good idea to bring snacks with you. You may get hungry along the way and the roadside restaurants and gas stations may not have a good assortment of snacks.

You can bring a wide assortment of snacks to Cuba like, power bars , candy bars, cookies , dried fruit and beef jerky.

Key Cuba travel tip: Do not bring fresh food to Cuba.

Cuba Cultural Tour

What electronics can I use in Cuba?

Cuba uses the same plug configurations and voltage as in the U.S., so, your hair dryer will work.

A cheap and efficient communication option in Cuba is to use WhatsApp for voice and video calls.

Yes, you can purchase a SIM card in Cuba but the rules for the purchase and use of a SIM card change frequently. Check the current requirements.

Bring a good charger with you. I prefer the smaller ones like this iWalk charger because it takes up less space and it has a bright color which I can quickly identify in a bag. I only use it to cover me until I can get to the next electrical outlet so that’s all I need.

Others might prefer a more heavy duty charger like this charger or similar.

You don’t want to access data or maps on your phone in Cuba because you will have to mortgage your first born child to pay for it when you get back home.

Instead, bring a nice, detailed laminated map with you. Better still, download Maps.me to your phone before you go. It can be used offline and it’s free!

Accessing WIFI and the internet in Cuba can be challenging. You can only access it in certain locations like your casa or certain public places.

In many cases you will need an “ETECSA card” purchased at one of the various Cuban telecommunications offices. They cost the equivalent of US$1/hour and come in increments of 1 to 5 hours.

How to access WIFI in Cuba

Check out this post for a detailed explanation of how to access WIFI and the internet in Cuba.

Consider a virtual private network, or “VPN.” This is a service that enables additional security when you access the internet no matter where your are, at home or on WIFI overseas. This keeps your identity safe and your activity private while online.

There are several VPN services available on the market. I have used NordVPN and have been happy with the service.

Key Cuba travel tip: Keep your phone on airplane mode at all times in Cuba to avoid any roaming charges.

What to bring as gifts and donations for the Cuban people.

Cuba is the only country I know of where it is common for visitors to bring donations for the local people. For many reasons, there is scarcity in Cuba and the local people appreciate donations.

Visitors are encouraged, but by no means required, to bring donations to Cuba and leave them in places where they will do the most good like schools, churches or assisted living establishments.

If you are traveling with a group or tour, your guide can probably help identify a good donation location.

Another option is to leave the donations with the service workers of your local casa (privately owned guest house.)

The casa owner may be too well-off to need your donations but the service workers: room cleaners, waiters, cooks will greatly appreciate it.

What donations should you bring to Cuba? Used, summer season clothing including bras…yes, bras, AA batteries, plastic containers, any over-the-counter medicine like aspirin or Tylenol. Band-Aides.

School supplies are very welcome: pens, pencils, crayons, notebooks, used sporting equipment like baseball gloves. Small, easy to pack toys from infant on up. Used bed linens, towels and kitchen towels.

Finally, reading glasses for seniors, any female hygiene products, spices and USB memory sticks round out the list of highly desirable donations.

Key Cuba travel tip: Check the expiration date if bringing meds.

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Wherever you go, Cuba or anywhere else, make sure you have travel insurance. Here is a list of different companies offering travel insurance with a variety of policies at different prices. Surely one is right for you.

Research your trip beforehand with these handy guidebooks. Here is a curated selection of books about Cuban cooking, travel, art, history and culture in general.

What have I missed for a Cuba packing list? What would you include? Let us know in the comments.

BTW, if you are getting ready for your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful,  money-saving links  to book your trip:

• Research and  book your flight  with  Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
• For  car rental around the world, Discover Cars has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend   Discover Cars .
• Book your accommodation  with  Booking.com . I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
• Protect your trip  and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use  Travelinsurance.com  and have been very happy with them.
• Looking for a  small group tour  to unforgettable destinations with top professionals?  Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
• For more  general tours  to any destination or attraction,  book with   Viator . Check them out.
• Need a visa?   Get your visa  for all countries with   Passport Visa Exp ress.
• Looking for a cool walking tour to explore a city? My favorite walking tours are offered by Take Walks.
• Food and drink tours are the best way to enjoy a city. And Devour Tours are my favorite.
• Looking for a good VPN to protect your security, privacy and freedom online while traveling? Nordvpn is your best option.

I personally use, and can recommend, all the companies listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission we earn – at no cost to you – helps us maintain this site so we can continue to offer our readers valuable travel tips and advice.

Talek Nantes

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Cuba Packing List: 10 Things You’re Forgetting to Bring to Cuba

Are you wondering what to bring to Cuba? This Cuba packing list is the ultimate guide for everything you will need for a once in a lifetime, bucket list trip to Cuba!

Visiting Cuba is an adventurous vacation that feels like you’re going back in time. Lively Old Havana is filled with old fashioned cars, pastel colored buildings, and brimming with Cuban culture.

This is all the travel information I wish I had beforehand. Use it to make your travel easier. All your questions about Cuba travel documents, currency, what to wear, cell phone service and must-haves for your trip are answered below.

You should also read What I Loved and Hated About Visiting Cuba for more Cuba travel tips .

This site uses affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. You can read our full disclosure policy here .

Table of Contents

Weather and Best Time to Go to Cuba

The weather in Cuba is pretty hot all year round with average yearly temperature of approximately 79 degrees Fahrenheit and lots of sunshine. That said, there are differences based on the wet and dry season in Cuba.

Cuba’s Dry Season

December to May is the best time to visit Cuba. During the dry season the temperatures are very comfortable. It’s important to note that you can still expect light rain 4-5 days a month.

Cuba’s Wet Season

June to November is not a good time to plan your travel to Cuba. Hurricanes and tropical storms are quite common. It also coincides with the hot season where days can average 90 degrees with humidity.

10 Things to Put on Your Cuba Packing List

I felt like I made so many mistakes on my Cuba packing list which is why I wrote this post. I didn’t want anyone to be as unprepared as I was.

You won’t find malls or stores flush with inventory in Cuba.

Remember that Cuba isn’t one of those places where you can go out and buy what you forget to pack.

1. Bring a Few Portable Chargers to Cuba – No Matter What

Cuba has infrastructure challenges and the power goes out periodically.

On my trip to Cuba, we lost power for almost a full day and my cell phone and computer went dead. I’ll never travel without my trusty, lightweight portable charger again. I also won’t let my electronics sit uncharged.

Keep everything charged and make sure you have a backup portable charger . It will give you at least 2 full charges for your cell phone and it comes with two chargers that are the size of a phone.

Cuba mostly has 110 volt outlets so Americans and Canadians won’t need a power adapter. Europeans should bring a travel adapter for Cuba.

2. Rain Jacket for Both Cuba’s Rainy Season and Dry Season

I went to Cuba in January during the dry season and there was unseasonable torrential rain – with a tornado!

You should plan for rain. There are 4-5 rainy days per month during the dry season with light precipitation.

Don’t forget rain gear on your Cuba packing list.

Dry Season Rain Jacket : If you are going to Cuba during the dry season, bring a lightweight rain jacket that barely takes any room in your suitcase and has a hood that you can stow away when it’s not raining.

Rain Poncho : Or bring a rain poncho that is less than 9 ounces and fits into a small case that you throw right into your bag for the day.

Rainy Season Raincoat : This raincoat is longer so it will give you more coverage. It comes 15 colors that look great in photos.

3. Don’t Forget a Travel Umbrella for Rain or Shine on Your Packing List for Cuba

Rainy Season

It goes without saying that you need an umbrella for the rainy season. This travel umbrella is windproof, lightweight, easily fits into your bag and it comes in multiple colors. I like bringing a color that will add interest to photos.

A UV Travel Sun Umbrella will keep you up to 10 degrees cooler. It will also keep you dry if it suddenly rains. The best part is that it’s windproof too. You can encounter all 3 of these situations during the dry season in Cuba.

4. Colorful Sundresses Should Be on Your Packing List for Cuba

You’re probably wondering what to wear in Cuba. Known for bright colorful buildings, old fashioned cars and lively energy you want your outfits to fit the part.

There’s a retro sophistication to Cuba that begs for floral prints and bright colored dresses.

This short wrap dress is perfect for warm days and comes in multiple prints and colors. Mix it up with a halter maxi dress or a sexy wrap dress for evenings.

Dresses take no room to pack and at these great prices, you can pack a bunch of different looks.

Fabrics such as cotton, linen and rayon make for breathable comfortable clothing in the heated weather. Also, lightweight dresses just feel good when it’s hot out. Cute skirts are great for Cuba too!

5. A Packable Sun Hat is an Essential for Cuba

Make sure to bring a packable sun hat that can double for sightseeing and pool time. The sun is HOT in Cuba and sunscreen alone won’t cut it.

This cute summer packable hat retains it’s shape, looks great and is a steal! I am a complete convert to foldable hats and will never return to hats that are not easily packable for travel. Does anyone else always forget their hat on the plane?!

6. A Filtered Water Bottle is a Cuba Packing List Must-Have

Cuban water is not safe to drink. There’s a small take out restaurant on the outside of the airport where you can buy bottled water immediately. Make sure you have your Cuban currency with you.

Regardless, having a filtered water bottle on your Cuba packing list will give you peace of mind that you’ll always have safe water to drink. Plus, you’ll be making the better choice for the planet.

These bottles are so good, you could drink from a dirty puddle in the street if you had no other options.

The Lifestraw Go water bottle has a 2 stage filtering process, which removes 99.99% of all the bacteria and harmful materials that you could be drinking.

It is not only important to stay hydrated, but you want to make sure that you do not get sick so that you can enjoy every second of your trip.

Related Post: What You Need To Know Before You Visit Cuba

7. First Aid Kit and Medicine That Should Be On Your Packing List for Cuba

I bring medication for everything I don’t want to get when I travel. If I have the medication, I don’t get sick. If I forget the medication, somehow bad things happen.

I traveled to Cuba without any protection for food borne illness, and guess what? Yep, it happens a lot in Cuba and you definitely want to have medicine on hand.

• Anti-Diarrheal : If you get a stomach bug, this will get you back to normal much faster.
• Electrolyte packets : These GMO free packets can help you rebound quickly if you get sick or hungover.
• Insect Repellant people swear by this insect repellant to keep mosquitos and biting bugs at bay.
• Sunscreen : I love this reef friendly 40 SPF sunscreen that is a great makeup primer.
• Emergen-C : We are exposed to so many bugs when traveling, you should take a little extra precaution to boost your immunity.
• Sanitizing wipes : These days, we’ve all become professional germ warriors. Don’t forget to pack sanitizing wipes for the plane, hotel room and throughout your trip when you can’t wash your hands.
• Lightweight Travel First Aid Kit : This is a good thing to bring if you will be doing any hiking or sports in Cuba.

8. A Zippered RFID Blocking Wallet

A wallet with pockets for 2 different currencies is one of the first things to pack for Cuba. You will most likely carry your home currency, Cuban Pesos and credit cards.

With coins in the mix, a zipper will protect you from losing any money. There’s more information on currency in Cuba below.

RFID blocking wallets protect your credit and debit cards as you go through airports getting to Cuba. There’s a high probability you will be using debit or credit cards in Cuba so you need to know that everything is safe.

9. Sounds Weird But Snacks Should be on Your Cuba Packing List

Whenever I go to a country with a chance of getting food borne illness, I like having snacks for a safe meal just in case.

Thank goodness a friend told me to bring snacks to Cuba. There was a crazy storm right within hours of arriving.

Between torrential rain and a long power outage, those snacks became my first few Cuba meals.

Since there aren’t convenience stores like other locations, pack nutrition bars, granola bars, trail mix bags or whatever is your favorite to ensure you have something to eat.

It is never a bad idea to have snacks on you especially if you are on the go!

10. You Will Use a Mix of Cuban Currency, a Credit Card and Foreign Currency in Cuba

Currency in Cuba is somewhat confusing. And the rules change from time to time. The currency in Cuba is called CUP (Cuban pesos).

You will need to pay for some things with CUP, other things with a credit card (like renting a car) and you can even use euros and dollars for tipping.

To avoid having incorrect information here, I encourage you to check out the money situation before your trip from a regularly updated source and follow their guidelines.

What to Bring to Cuba for the Locals

Cuba is one of those places where your tourism really helps the country and there are a few ways you can make a difference.

The first is just by visiting Cuba and spending money there. Try to use local guides. Stay in Casa Particulares. Make choices that make people’s lives better.

The second is bringing items to donate – specifically clothes and hygiene products. Since packing is generally light for a tropical destination, bring gently used clothes and shoes you don’t want anymore.

It’s hard for cuban people to buy clothing. Many people can’t afford it. We think nothing of popping into the mall and buying whatever we want. They don’t have the same luxury.

You can also bring hygiene products such as toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and even makeup. No matter where you are staying, someone will know how to put your donations to good use.

Although it is not expected to bring gifts, it is always extremely well received by the people.

Luggage Limits and What You’re Allowed to Bring to Cuba

Cuba does have some strict baggage weight limit requirements. All luggage combined including hand luggage must weigh less than 50 kg or approximately 110 pounds per person.

Most airlines tend to have a 50 lb weight limit per bag, but if you happen to be checking two bags and have a carry on, be sure that they are under that combined 110 lb weight limit.

This hard-shell spinner luggage set has been all over the world with us. It holds up really well and is lightweight so you can use most of your weight allowance on the things you pack, not your bag.

We use these compression packing cubes inside to fit more in our bags and keep everything organized.

I would also suggest bringing a larger tote bag or laptop backpack that attaches to your carry-on or leaving some room in your suitcase to bring back whatever items you may buy while away.

Cuba Packing List Women

• Flowy colorful dresses
• Short sleeve tops
• Beach cover up
• Packable Hat
• Insect Repellant

Cuba Packing List Men

• Button-down short sleeve shirts
• Polo shirts
• Cuban guayaberas
• Swim trunks
• Hat or Baseball Cap

Documents You Need to Bring to Cuba

There are many important documents you can’t forget for when traveling out of the country. Cuba specifically has special document requirements so be sure that you don’t forget these three items.

• Passport : You must bring your passport with at least 6 months of validity to enter Cuba.
• Cuban Tourist Visa or Tourist Card: A Tourist Card, coming from the USA it’s also known as a pink card, is required of every visitor. You can apply for it ahead of time or you can get it at the airport. Your airline will provide you with information about the documentation you need and what type of assistance they offer. My flight from New York, stopped in Fort Lauderdale and there was a Cuban Travel Service kiosk at the Southwest check in that handled the tourist cards.
• Travel Insurance: Visitors to Cuba are required to have a travel insurance policy. Traveler insurance was included with my Southwest Airlines ticket. Check your airline first to see if they have included travel insurance. You will need to hold onto your boarding pass for access to the insurance.
• Proof of Return Ticket – You need to have your return ticket with you.

Phone Service & Wifi in Cuba

Phone : The phone service in Cuba is limited. Don’t expect to go to Cuba and use your phone, text, and data plan the way you do regularly. In fact, it would be best if you considered your time in Cuba as a digital break.

I have Verizon phone service and I was told incorrect information about using my phone/data in Cuba. It’s really expensive and the coverage is spotty. I met a couple who had Sprint and they seemed to have a much easier time.

Wifi : I read about free wifi in parks in Cuba but couldn’t figure it out. My casa particular had wifi but only during certain hours. The hours were constantly changing so sometimes I got lucky for an hour or I had no service for hours on end.

It was frustrating mostly because I didn’t know it was going to be such a problem. If you consider Cuba a digital break, you’ll be pleasantly surprised if you get a signal. I would imagine that staying in a high end hotel (not allowed for Americans) the wifi situation might be better.

This Cuba Packing list will get you prepared for the trip. Make sure to read What I Loved & Hated About Visiting Cuba for more information about this interesting and beautiful country including where to stay.

Information about traveling to Cuba is constantly changing. We attempt to keep this information current but check the current information provided by your airline. They will have the latest updates regarding tourist cards, travel insurance and luggage limits.

Other Tropical Vacation Posts You Might Like:

• BAHAMAS: Swimming with Pigs in Exuma Bahamas
• MEXICO: Complete Tulum Travel Guide with the Top Things to Do
• BELIZE: 5 Epic Things to do in Belize
• THAILAND: 2 Days in Phuket Thailand

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14 comments.

FYI, the currency information is out of date. There’s only one currency now.

Good tips 🙂

Thanks for the info. It’s updated now.

Hilda Smith

Jenifer love your post. Always good to know what to bring to a specific country.

ROBIN LAMONTE

I love all your recommendations for visiting Cuba! I love how colorful the country is and you always inspire me to add your destinations to my bucket list! Fabulous as always Jenifer!

Hugs, Robin

Thanks so much Robin!

Elizabeth Ashley Ramsey

Have really been considering a filtered water bottle as we have started traveling to some more exotic locales! Great suggestion and I’ll definitely be checking that model out.

I need to plan a trip to Cuba!

Shelley Webb

Cuba is one of the few destinations on my bucket list (I’m not much of a traveler) so this has been very informational! I’m bookmarking it. Thank you!

So glad it’s helpful!

Ayngelina Brogan

Hey just wanted to jump in to help you on the wifi info. There has never been free wifi in parks so I think that’s where the confusion may have been. But the hotspots outside hotels are in the parks. You still need to get a wifi card, which is $1/hour. Or now you can also buy SIM cards.

I’ve been based in Havana for two years and people think it’s crazy for a travel blogger to do so but it is possible. I don’t want to hijack your post but I do keep this Internet in Cuba post updated monthly so your readers may find it useful.

https://www.baconismagic.ca/cuba/wifi-internet-in-cuba/

In two years SO much has changed. Most recently the government created a SIM card just for tourists that you can buy abroad and pick up at the airport.

Thank so much for sharing this great info!

That’s good to know about the snacks and travel documents!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

A few preparations can make all the difference for Cuba.

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What to Bring to Cuba in 2024 [Cuba Packing List]

I’m going to split this article on what to bring to Cuba into two sections.  The first is the Cuba Packing list that you’ll need for your own use.  And then I’ll cover what to bring to Cuba for the locals.  I’m assuming, also that as you’re reading Cuba’s Best, you’re interested in visiting Cuba somewhat independently, so you’ll be traveling around the country a little.  If you’re planning on a resort holiday and not moving far from a sunbed, then I’ll point you to the sunscreen section.  Otherwise, keep reading. I’ll also cover what you can take to Cuba to support the Cuban people.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

Packing lists for Cuba are very different from what you’ll take to other countries.  Because while you can likely find what you need *somewhere*, it will be on the black market, you probably won’t find it quickly and it will cost you.  Best to be prepared.

TOP CUBA TRAVEL TIP

Get a VPN for Cuba

The most important thing you can pack to take to Cuba? A VPN in Cuba is essential if you plan to use the internet – AT ALL – you’ll need it to view your regular news sites, protect data when connected, AND to book Viazul Tickets.

Let’s also consider the current world situation when you’re packing as well.  Depending on when you are traveling to Cuba you may experience power outages – this is very much the case in some parts of the country in 2024.  So plan around that.  Think power blocks for your phone or camera, think snacks if you’re going to want to eat between meals. Think of a flashlight or head torch for walking home at night.

Additionally, depending on how you normally travel you might be used to getting free toiletries in your hotel.  Plan on taking everything you need.  If you take too much you can always leave it behind, it will be well received.

So here we go.  Here’s a personal packing list for Cuba

Personal Packing List for Cuba

I’ve split these items that you should take to Cuba into logical sections.  If you’d like these as a downloadable checklist then click here and I’ll email it to you.

Think I’ve missed something?  Drop me an email or mention it in the comments.

Essentials you will need to enter Cuba

These are the items that you’ll need to either get on the plane to Cuba or through immigration to Cuba.

• Passport with the appropriate number of months left (check our Cuba checklist here )
• get a quote here from Visitors Coverage
• Get a quote for insurance from Civitatis here
• Read more here

TOP PRODUCT PICK

Travel Insurance for Cuba

Visitor’s Coverage provides medical and travel insurance for Cuba – for Americans and for international visitors.

• A Cuban Tourist Card – buy one here , or read more here . As of 1 November 2022, they’re now valid for 90 days!
• A completed health declaration form – – complete it with the D’Viajeros form online here – ou guide to completing the D’Viajeros form in is here.

Our guide to the best time to visit Cuba is here.

Basics to Take to Cuba

Here are a few items to bring to Cuba that I’d count as essentials, and I’ve explained why

• A face mask (make sure you’re prepared for any local changes to COVID rules)
• Hand sanitizer (not all bathrooms have soap, and most public toilets don’t have paper) – this is a scarce commodity in Cuba > get travel sized sanitizer here
• Toilet Paper / Packets of Kleenez (most public toilets and toilets in restaurants don’t have paper)
• Mosquito Repellent (whether or not there’s a dengue outbreak bites are irritating, and you’ve best off just not getting them)
• A filter water bottle – escape the bottled water trap – buy a filter water bottle and save the planet.  (read our guide to drinking water in Cuba here ). An alternative to a filter water bottle is a Steripen , which uses UV light to fix the problems in bad water – but doesn’t remove the chlorine taste.

Best Filter Water Bottle For Cuba

The Lifestraw Go Water Filter Bottle has a 22-ounce capacity, it has a two-stage carbon filter that lasts for 100 liters of water and a membrane microfilter that lasts up to 4,000 liters of water.  The bottle itself is reusable, extremely durable, and BPA-free.  

This is the best filter water bottle for Cuba

• Take an eSIM to Cuba, which you can buy here. It means that you’ll be online as soon as you get off the plane. And you can top it up if you need more data during your stay. I wrote about it here.
• A VPN – if you plan on using the internet in Cuba, then use a VPN to protect your digital presence.  Get ExpressVPN here – or read more in our VPNs for Cuba guide here .
• A flashlight, torch or headlamp/
• Cash – Cash is king in Cuba.  Read our guide to Cuban Currency here .  You can bring in the equivalent of US$5,000.
• A Cuban Spanish Phrasebook

Luggage to Take to Cuba

If you’re traveling around Cuba you’ll want something lightweight and easy to move around.  Packing is also so much easier with packing cubes, and these have revolutionized my packing over the years.  As well as hand luggage that you can keep your valuables in and with you at all times.  If you’re planning on leaving valuables anywhere – like a hotel room, or in a casa particular, we’d also recommend using a portable safe.  Here are our recommended bags, packs, and safes.

• Easy lightweight case for Cuba
• Packing cubes
• Easy lightweight backpack for Cuba
• Portable travel safe for valuables for Cuba – there’s more on why we travel with a portable travel safe here.

Clothes to take To Cuba

It’s going to be hot.  And sweaty.  If you’re staying in Casa Particulars they will offer a laundry service, but you’ll need to factor in if you have rain it might take a while to dry.  You won’t find laundromat-type facilities here, but if you plan on washing things out in the sink overnight, then you’ll need to bring your own laundry soap.  There’s very little need to dress up in Cuba, and take comfortable clothes – if you’re heading to somewhere special, then smart casual is the way to go.  And comfortable shoes for walking around too.  I’ll leave you to add in what clothes you want to take, but consider these items are necessary

• Comfortable shoes for Walking / Walking Sandals
• Flip flops (although I detest flip flips, and love these crocs sandals instead )
• A quick drying towel – great for the beach
• An umbrella – I learned this from extensive travel in Asia – brollies are amazing for rain, they’re even better as really strong sun protection !

If you plan on snorkeling, then bring your own snorkeling gear – and if you prefer to use a shortie wetsuit then you should bring that with you too. You may be able to rent snorkeling gear, but it may not be in the greatest condition.

TOP DIVE TIP

Take Your Own Snorkel Mask

While we found the dive gear in Cuba reasonable, I would definitely take my own dive mask. If you don’t want to carry it afterward you can always gift it.

Toiletries to take to Cuba

While you will be able to buy some basics like soap and shampoo while you’re in Cuba, items like menstrual products are hard to come by, so if you need them, bring them with you.  Equally, if you normally travel with condoms, then bring them too, as they’re in short supply in Cuba.

• Soap/shower gel
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Toothpaste / Toothbrush / Floss
• Nail clippers/Tweezers
• Face cream/moisturizer
• Razor/shavers
• Tampons/Pads/ Menstrual Cups (< the best invention ever!)

Medication to Take to Cuba

You won’t be able to buy much over-the-counter medication in Cuba, so it’s wise to take a stash with you.  You can buy some international medication here, but it’s more expensive.  And you’re unlikely to find any US brands, so you’ll find a brand made in other countries.  So if you prefer Tylenol to paracetamol or Ibuprofen, then take it with you.  Over the counter medication is also in much demand in Cuba, they don’t have much. Read on for what you can take to help the regular Cuban in the street.

If you need prescription drugs, then bring them all with you and bring the prescription too, in case you have any issues.

Here are suggestions for a basic medication kit to take with you

• Tylenol / Ibuprofen / Paracetomol
• Sea sickness pills if you plan to take any catamaran rides
• Electrolytes/rehydration salts – go easy on the super strong mojitos or you’ll need a lot of these!
• Band-Aids / Plasters
• Antibiotic Cream
• Antihistamine Cream (for when the mozzies get through the Deet!)

Electronics to take to Cuba

• A power converter – so you can charge all your electronics – our guide to the best power converters for Cuba is here .  While Cuba is mostly 110 volts (the same as the USA and Canada), the word you need to look at there is “mostly”, especially if you’re staying in casa particulars, then be prepared for different sockets and different voltages.

Best Cuba Travel Adapter

This fabulous adapter will cover you  no matter where you’re from. And it’ll cover you wherever you’re going to.

This is the best adapter for travel to Cuba

• Phone (you can get an eSIM or local SIM put in it – read our guide here )
• Portable charger/battery
• Memory Card for Camera – PLUS A SPARE
• A hard drive to back up photos to
• Kindle or EReader (download all your books before you go)

If you normally upload your photos to the cloud, then plan on doing that when you get home and bring either spare memory cards or a hard drive to back up your photos.  Read our guide to the internet in Cuba here , but plan on not using it for this purpose. And consider using a VPN while you’re here. We use ExpressVPN and have for years. It works REALLY well in Cuba. Get 3 months for free here.

What to Bring to Cuba for the Cubans

Let me start by saying that you don’t need to bring things for the locals if you don’t want to.  However, in 2024 there are many items that are either unobtainable or very expensive to obtain in Cuba.

How does the US embargo affect what you can take to Cuba?

The US embargo does no apply to food and medical products.

What import tax is there to pay on food and medical equipment to Cuba?

If you bring food and medical equipment or over the counter medication there is no import tax to pay. This import tax was cancelled in January 2022 and the “end” date keeps being pushed back. The official page (which is also usually out of date) is here.

What do Cuban’s Need taking to Cuba?

And that the best way to understand what the Cubans need is actually to ask them directly. So if you’re staying at Casa Particulars, (which 80% of the readers of Cuba’s Best do), then ASK BEFORE YOU GO. “Is there anything that I can bring from home that will be of help?”

You might encounter the odd person in the street asking for handouts, but they are few and far between, and I most definitely don’t support begging.  And you shouldn’t go around giving out candy or dollars to kids, but if you do want to bring things to Cuba to help those in need, then consider this.

• If you know people, then ask them what they want.
• If you leave things for your maids in a hotel, then they’ll likely sell them, which is fair enough, but they’re also probably better off than a lot of people in the country.
• Tipping with either pesos or hard currency (US Dollars, Canadian Dollars and Euros are best – ALL NOTES – no coins) means that the person you tip can buy what they want. So long as its available.
• Consider bringing items that Cubans can’t get and that are of immediate use. This includes the following.

Take these items to Cuba for Cubans in 2024

Generally useful items for Cubans include

• Decent Coffee
• AA batteries
• Rechargeable flashlights.
• Clothes for children – you can drop them off at a church or orphanage
• Over-the-counter medication (in its boxes) – like Ibuprofren or paracetomol or Tylenol
• Powdered milk
• Toilet Paper
• Hygiene products like deodorant, toothpaste (esp female hygiene products)
• Pantyhose/Tights
• Pens/Paper etc – school supplies
• Guitar Strings are ALWAYS useful

If you want to help the Cuban people, then I’d recommend considering asking a couple of organizations in Cuba that items would be useful.

The folks at Cuba Solidarity regularly publish items that would be of us, and these include specialist medical equipment – like sterile gloves, or disposable syringes.  You can check other items that they recommend taking here.

Cuba Libro in Havana is an English-language bookshop and coffee house in Havana – it’s a good idea to contact them and ask what’s needed specifically and then drop it off when you arrive in Cuba.  Contact at [email protected]

Saint Elvira’s Church in Varadero can distribute clothing, medication, and other items. The address is 47th street and 1st avenue.

Let me know – either by emailing me or by commenting below – of any other organizations that you recommend for distributing assistance.

What NOT to Bring to Cuba

Now that we’ve covered what you should bring to Cuba, and what would be a good idea to take to Cuba, let’s take a look at what not to take to Cuba because there are some banned items that shouldn’t be anywhere near your luggage.

What value of Gifts can you bring into Cuba?

You can bring up to the equivalent of US$50 worth of gifts into Cuba before they’re taxable. you can bring a maximum of US$250 of gifts in. Of course that relies on someone finding them in your luggage to tax them.

You can bring in up to US$5,000 of cash into Cuba as well as non-personal items up to US$1,000 in value.

What items are hard to get in Cuba?

The following items are difficult (and expensive) to get in Cuba and are good examples of what you might bring to Cuba.

• Basic Medicines, Medical Supplies and Toiletries
• Over the counter medications like ibuprofen, paracetamol, gastrointestinal medications and diarrhoea medications. Plus antacids like Pepto-Bismol and sticking plasters or Bandaids.
• Mosquito repellent.

Cuba bans the following items

• Drugs – Cuba is a zero-tolerance society
• Satellite phones
• Anti-Cuba literature
• Pornography
• GPS Units – although phones with GPS are ok
• Walkie Talkies
• Agricultural products and plants

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING CUBA INDEPENDENTLY

These are the resources and booking sites that we use when traveling to Cuba.

Get a Cuba Travel and Medical Insurance Quote from Visitors Coverage here – Alternatively, Civitatis Insurance is a great option for the required insurance for Cuba. You will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter Cuba – some airlines include these, if yours doesn’t, buy one from EasyTouristCard – now valid for 90 days. Book your Viazul Bus tickets here Pre-book and prepay shared & private shuttles here Book the best FREE Walking Tours in Cuba Reserve attractions, day trips, and activities in Cuba here Get online in Cuba EASILY with a Cuba eSIM – read about Cuba ESIMS here , or buy a Cuba eSIM here .

Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Cuba > discount coupon here Book Accommodation in Cuba’s Casa Particular here

Final Words on our Cuba Packing List

A packing list for Cuba is somewhat different from planning a trip anywhere else, and bringing the right things with you will definitely help you have a better holiday.  But some of the things that you can bring to Cuba will also help make someone else’s life better too. 

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Sarah Carter

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3 thoughts on “ What to Bring to Cuba in 2024 [Cuba Packing List] ”

• 3 Comments

Thank you, Sarah, for the fine information that you provide.

Thank you for your informative suggestions. I have traveled to many countries but Cuba is the one I’m finding difficult to get my head round. Although I’m looking forward to going I feel quite apprehensive. We are hoping to go as far as Baracoa, just hope things go smoothly.

Hi Carolyn. Cuba definitely is quite tough to get your head around. My advice for Baracoa is to go there early in the trip (after Havana) and then you’re “always making your way home”. Always budget more than you think, in terms of time and money. Always eat at casa particulars where you can (we’ve always had fabulous food in them – less so in restaurants). Enjoy and do let me know how you get on! Sarah

Privacy Overview

What to Bring to Cuba: The Ultimate Cuba Packing List

Having a hard time figuring out what to bring to Cuba? It’s not surprising – Cuba can be a challenging place to pack for. Add in restrictions or limitations on what you can bring to Cuba and it can be downright challenging.

Whether you’re headed to downtown Old Havana , a beach resort in Varadero , or hiking Pico Turquino in the Sierra Maestra mountains, Cuba has a lot to offer travelers – and a lot to pack for.

In this ultimate Cuba packing list (written by a local and expat!) we’re sharing exactly what you need to bring to Cuba, whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks. Plus, check out our top recommendations for travel safety in Cuba , and the travel essentials we never leave home without.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Backpacks or Luggage for Cuba

I generally recommend traveling with a crossbody purse for safety purposes , though bag snatching is not common in Cuba – the most you’ll really need to be aware of is the potential for pickpocketing in crowded areas.

You should feel comfortable bringing whatever purse you like, as long at it has a good zipper or closure. 

When I’m carrying a bit more stuff with me, I use the North Face Recon Backpack , which is great for daily use or even for short trips up to three or four days.

If you’ll be using it while you’re out and about, I recommend s-biner microlocks to keep the zippers clipped together.

Backpacking Backpack

You’ll definitely see travelers to Cuba using backpacking backpacks, but whether you travel with a backpack or luggage is really a personal decision here. A backpacking backpack might be a better choice if you’re headed to more remote parts of Cuba or planning to travel extensively by bus.

We love the  Osprey Men’s Rook  and  Osprey Women’s Renn 65L  backpacks – they’re  roomy enough for longer backpacking excursions and extremely well-made and comfortable.  

The Osprey lifetime warranty was huge for us , and you know when you purchase one of these bags you’ll never need to buy another one again.

You’ll have no problem maneuvering your luggage here , so no need to stick with just a carry on luggage size – especially in the roomy vintage American cars used so frequently for cabs – though a backpack might be easier if you plan to travel a lot by bus (but this is not a dealbreaker).

We love the  Samosonite hardside luggage , or  Coolife hardside luggage  if you’re on a budget.

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Travel Essentials for Cuba

The most essential travel essential in Cuba is CASH. Travelers from the United States will not be able to use their debit or credit cards, so you MUST bring ALL the cash you’ll need to the island with you.

Even if you aren’t a traveler from the United States, I recommend bringing cash. The official exchange rate for Cuban pesos is MUCH  less than the exchange rate you’ll find from local money changers.

You’ll get 4x or 5x more pesos if you exchange cash than you would withdrawing from an ATM.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Currency in Cuba

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A Virtual Private Network is essential for travel, especially in Cuba. Due to the U.S. embargo (not, actually, due to Cuban censorship), many websites like PayPal, banking apps, and the App Store are not accessible from Cuba.

To protect your personal information from hackers, and to access these websites you wouldn’t be able to otherwise, you’ll need a VPN.

We love NordVPN , and due to its best-available speed, it’s by far the best VPN for use in Cuba – by a long shot. It’s incredibly simple to use (just one click to activate!), and offers the best protection you’ll find in the industry.

• Ultimate Guide to Using the Internet + Getting Wifi in Cuba
• The Best VPN for Cuba (And Why You Need One)

A steripen is a game changer for international travel. This tiny UV-light water sanitation device quickly and easily makes any tap water safe to drink, meaning you’ll save tons by not having to buy bottled water while traveling abroad. Plus, think of all the single-use plastic you’re saving. 

Water Bottle with Filter

I usually travel with a steripen and a water bottle with a filter – the water bottle is perfect for refills on the go. I’ve tried a lot of water bottles with sanitization filters over the years, but the Lifestraw filtering bottle is by far the best. 

White Noise Machine

A  tiny, portable sound machine  can make such a difference when you’re sleeping somewhere new. Especially if you’re staying in Old Havana, you might hear a lot of street noise, or noise from the courtyard of these old buildings.

It’s like an insurance policy for your sleep while traveling.

I always recommend bringing an eye mask for travel, even if you don’t usually sleep with one at home. They’re great for the plane, and for a hotel or Airbnb room with curtains that just don’t cut it.

For the same reason you’d want to bring a white noise machine, you’ll want to bring ear plugs ! These started out as a hostel must-have, but I’ve since learned the value of bringing them wherever I travel. 

Travel Towel

A quick-drying microfiber travel towel is a must for Cuba, especially if you’re headed to the beach, or if your accommodation has a pool. You’ll be provided with a towel wherever you stay, but this is great for bringing along when you leave the room.

Travel Blanket

A travel blanket is a great, versatile item for keeping warm on freezing airplanes, using for picnics, or even on the beach. A great travel blanket folds down to next to nothing, so they won’t take up much space in your suitcase or backpack.

Silicone Reusable Bags

You might have some of these reusable silicone baggies at home for food storage – but did you know they’re a great piece of travel gear? I love to bring a few along wherever I travel to hold jewelry, pack a wet towel or swimsuit, or keep my travel documents safe.

Playing Cards or Similar

Internet isn’t as easily accessible in Cuba as it is elsewhere, and many guesthouses ( casas particulares or Airbnbs) don’t have internet.

Bring a pack of playing cards, a tablet with downloaded movies or tv shows, a book, or something similar to keep entertained at the end of the evening.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Using the Internet + Getting Wifi in Cuba

Laundry Detergent Sheets

Traveling with one or two laundry detergent sheets is the easiest and most packing-efficient way to do a clothing refresh on the go.

Even if you don’t usually do this, you may want to in Cuba – don’t underestimate how hot it can get, and no one wants to reuse sweaty clothes. 

Drain Stopper

If you plan to do any hand-washing of your clothes, a cheap silicone drain-stopper is a handy addition to your bag.

Clothesline

Another easily-packable item to make hand-washing clothes on the go a breeze is a tiny clothesline . Even if you just need to hang up sweaty clothes at the end of the day, this is a great and often overlooked piece of travel gear.

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

Clothing for Cuba

Unless you’re at the beach, you’ll probably want a good pair of sneakers for traveling in Cuba. Especially in larger cities, sandals will leave you with dirty feet by the end of the day, and with cobblestones in historic areas, you’ll want something with good support. 

Chacos or Similar Water Shoes

Chacos , Tevas, or similar water shoes are generally all you’ll need if you’re hiking in Cuba. They’re perfect for any of the waterfall hikes like Soroa, Topes de Collantes near Trinidad , or just for hiking around Viñales .

Hiking Boots

You’ll only need hiking boots in Cuba if you plan on hiking Pico Turquino. However, they may come in handy if you plan on hiking other areas of Cuba in the rainy season.

Either way, opt for waterproof hiking boots if you can – I have a trusty pair of Merrell hiking boots , and Jose has Timberland hiking boots . 

For example, if you’re headed to Viñales in the rainy season, you might want hiking boots because the soil is bright red – I’ve had clothes and sneakers permanently stained from hiking here during the rainy season , even on sunny days!

Waterproof Slides or Flip-Flops

Make sure to pack good sandals, flip-flops, or waterproof slides for beach days or a quick walk around the neighborhood.

Light Layers and Loose, Flowing Clothing

Cuba is hot year round – even in December or January , it can get toasty. You’ll want light, loose layers and comfortable clothing. 

Bathing Suit

Whether you have a chance to make it to Varadero or any of the other incredible beaches in Cuba , there will be plenty of opportunities to swim in Cuba. Bring a bathing suit!

Sarong or Wrap

Bring a multi-purpose sarong or light scarf, which can serve as a beach cover up, or a light layer to protect from the sun. 

You will need a light sweater for evenings in Cuba’s cities, or a heavier sweater for evenings in more rural areas , like Viñales or the outskirts of Havana. 

Sun Hat and Sunglasses

You’ll need good sun protection no matter what season of the year you travel in Cuba, so make sure you have a good sun hat, sunglasses, and anything else you’ll need to keep cool and protected.

Seasonal Items

Rain jacket.

During the rainy season, it won’t rain constantly in Cuba, but you’ll often have passing rainstorms, especially in the afternoons. It’s worth bringing a rain jacket so you don’t get trapped inside.

We love Columbia rain jackets because they magically won’t create that awful sauna effect against your body when wearing them on a hot day, as many rain jackets do. It’s a game changer – especially for Cuba.

• Columbia Men’s Rain Jacket
• Columbia Women’s Rain Jacket

If you’re traveling during the rainy season, bring an umbrella, too.

Where to Stay in Havana

Check out our ultimate guide to where to stay in Havana, Cuba , or check out these favorite spots:

• Casa Giraldilla ($) 
• Casa Flamboyan ($ – $$) 
• Residencia Santa Clara ($$) 
• El Candil Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$) 
• La Reserva Vedado ($$$) 

Toiletries and Personal Care Items for Cuba

You will absolutely need your sunscreen here! Whether you’re on the beach or exploring Havana, be diligent about wearing your sunscreen. As a reminder, if you plan on swimming in the ocean, you’ll need reef-safe sunscreen – try Sun Bum if you haven’t yet!

Insect Repellant

Insect repellant is a must if you’re traveling outside of a major city, like to Viñales, Cienaga de Zapata, or even the outskirts of Havana. Your standard insect repellant should be fine, either insect repellant lotion or insect repellant spray , though the spray can be more conveniently layered with sunscreen.

Go Toobs are a game changer if you need to travel with liquids. These silicone toiletry bottles allow you to squeeze out every last drop of shampoo and conditioner , and they’ll save you from buying specific travel-sized products each time you travel.

Shampoo and Conditioner

Cuba is not the place to plan to buy shampoo and conditioner when you travel just to save a little space in your bag. This stuff can be hard to find sometimes or require waiting in long lines at special stores that only accept payment in foreign currency. Bring what you need, and a little extra. 

Lotion and Lip Balm

Just as you’ll want to bring your own shampoo and conditioner, the same goes for lotion and lip balm. It can be very challenging – or impossible – to find here.

Aspirin / Ibuprofen

Make sure to bring along aspirin, ibuprofen, or your preferred basic painkiller if you’re traveling to Cuba. Even simple medications like this can sometimes be challenging to find or impossible to get a hold of, so bring some along just in case.

The not-so-fun part of travel is that stomach issues could strike when you least expect them. Bring along some Imodium or a similar product just in case – I also recommend electrolyte rehydration powder that you can add to water for the same reason.

Any Needed Medications

Make sure to bring any medication you need, or any you MIGHT need. Again, it can be very challenging to get ahold of certain medications here, so even something basic like decongestant should go in your bag in case you need it while you’re traveling.

Feminine Care Products

Unlike medication, you’ll always find feminine care products in Cuba, but they probably won’t be like the ones you’re used to. Bring along your preferred products just in case – trust me!

Must-Have for Travel: VPN

Don’t even think of traveling – ESPECIALLY to Cuba! – without a good VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect you when accessing the internet. VPNs are extremely affordable and will save your important information from being hacked when using new wifi networks. We’ve used  NordVPN for years, and are very happy with the speed and service. 

Tech and Photography Gear for Cuba

While you shouldn’t really have an issue with packing restrictions when traveling to Cuba, customs can get weird about some tech gear that they’re unsure of.

According to Cuban Customs and Immigration, you can’t bring devices like walkie-talkies, satellite telephones, or other similar communication devices into Cuba without prior authorization.

This doesn’t affect most travelers at all – the standard tech and gear that any traveler will have is totally permitted. 

A good power bank is a must for travel! We love the Anker powerbanks and have used them without issue for years – even the basic model is usually more than enough to keep all our gear charged throughout the day.

Travel Adapter / Converter

You’ll find a mix of 110 V and 220 V power, and a mix of plug types here – even sometimes with the same building. You’ll want to bring along a voltage converter and plug adapter duo. We love the BESTEK duo converter and adapter – it has lots of plugs and USB ports, so it basically works like a charging station as well.

Travel Camera

If you’re in the market for a new camera for travel, we always recommend these models to readers: the  Nikon Coolpix B500 or the Nikon Z 50 Mirrorless .

The Nikon Coolpix is an excellent point and shoot for beginners looking for some next-level travel photos , and the Z 50 is great for those looking for the an excellent DSLR for travel (without spending on a pro model) – this body is the smallest Nikon makes for a DSLR, making it perfect for travel.

Extra Camera Memory Card

You probably won’t be able to find something like this in Cuba if you use up all the space on your SD card , so I recommend bringing an additional SD memory card for your camera just in case.

Extra Camera Battery

This isn’t the type of thing you’d be able to buy in Cuba, so if you have an extra camera battery, bring it.

A GoPro is a great addition to your photography gear,  especially in a place like Cuba where you can get some great underwater or adventure shots. The GoPro Hero9  is a great model for everyone  – excellent quality, and no need to get any more expensive models unless you’re a professional photographer.

Finding internet can sometimes be a challenge in Cuba, and many guesthouses (casa particular) still don’t have a wifi connection.

I recommend bringing a tablet (Jose is obsessed with his Amazon Fire tablet ) with downloaded movies, tv shows, or books to keep you busy at the end of a long day if you’re used to scrolling through your phone.

I had a friend gift me some wireless Beats a few years ago (great friend, right!?) and I’ll never look back. Whatever brand you prefer, headphones are a must for travel!

Wired Headphones and Headphone Adapter

I always recommend traveling with a pair of cheap wired headphones ( and don’t forget a headphone adapter if you need one), in case wireless headphones run out of power.

Travel Apps for Cuba

It is much more difficult to access the internet in Cuba than it is anywhere else. You won’t find wifi connections in every restaurant and cafe, like you would elsewhere, and many guesthouses and Airbnbs still don’t have internet connections.

There are several apps you should download before coming to Cuba that make it much easier to navigate this. Check out our guide to 10 Essential Apps for Cuba Travel for the details and recommendations.

Its important to note that you can NOT bring a drone in to Cuba! Don’t try, don’t cross your fingers and hope it will sneak by security unnoticed. Just don’t. It will hold you up when entering the country, and you might lose your drone for good.

Travel Safety Gear for Cuba

Travel wallet.

You may want to consider bringing a travel wallet if you’re concerned about card readers or are looking for something waterproof or extra secure. Check out this travel wallet guide for cool new features for travelers if you’re interested!

First Aid Kit

You never know when you’ll get a cut, scrape, or blister while traveling, so throw some basic first aid supplies together in a pouch or get a small travel first aid kit on Amazon for your trip.

S-biner microlocks are my favorite cheap, tiny piece of travel gear. These tiny carabiners keep zippers locked together on your backpack or suitcase, which is often just enough deterrence for potential pickpockets. 

Luggage Locks

I also recommend traveling with luggage locks with flexible hooks – I keep my suitcase locked at all times, including when I leave it in a hotel room. They’re a must for staying in hostels, plus, these are TSA safe.

Portable Safe

A portable safe is a great way to keep your money, travel documents, and phone safe while leaving them in your hotel room. You can also bring these to the beach to keep your valuables safe while you’re swimming!

I think a door stop is a must-have for travel safety, especially as a solo traveler or as a female. These are tiny, inexpensive, and can be lifesaving.

They’ll stop intruders from being able to force your down open at night – I travel with a doorstop with an alarm , which trips an alarm to scare off an intruder if the door is being forced.

Passport Scarf

I’ve never like money belts or the like – they’re generally not cute, tricky to use, and pickpockets know you’re wearing them. The “ passport scarf ” is something you’ll actually use – it looks like any other infinity scarf, but has a hidden pocket for your passport and money.

You would NEVER know.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

19 Top Cuba Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Famed for its world-renowned cigars, cool vintage cars, and crumbling colonial edifices, Cuba enchants the curious traveler at every turn. From scenic mountains to gorgeous beaches, Cuba has so much to explore.

With a fascinating history and important-to-note restrictions placed on foreign travelers, it can be difficult to know what to pack for your trip.

Our Cuba Packing List also includes  what to wear in Cuba , what NOT to bring, and helpful frequently asked questions.

What to Pack for Cuba – 19 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Cuba has had its share of economic struggles, and as is the case in many countries, pickpockets often regard tourists as an easy target. It’s not as common as you may think, but it’s certainly something to be aware of! To keep valuables like your passport and credit cards safe, bring this handy neck wallet to stash your belongings safely away under your shirt and out of sight. This lightweight and breathable model is just what you need.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. HERO Packing Cubes

Are you the type of traveler whose clothes end up in every corner of your hotel room within minutes of arrival? Then you’re the kind of traveler who needs a set of packing cubes. These lightweight and malleable cubes have become incredibly popular in recent years as a means of keeping clothes organized on the road. Store each clothing article type together to maintain an orderly wardrobe as you travel. We love this set of packing cubes because it’s durable, includes multiple handy and easy-to-pack sizes, and comes in a variety of cute colors!

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Mobile 3G internet only arrived in Cuba in 2018, so the signal is still sporadic throughout the country. Therefore, most travelers rely on hotel and restaurant WiFi networks for their daily internet fix. The issue is that public WiFi is notoriously prone to attack, which means another user could be watching your every move. And should they gain access to your online bank account – which is alarmingly easy to do – then you run the serious risk of losing your money and potentially other parts of your personal and financial identity. Thankfully, using a Virtual Private Network such as NordVPN can encrypt your traffic and keep you safe.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Activated Charcoal

It’s an unfortunate truth that some countries’ food sanitation standards are just not what our tourist bellies are accustomed to. Sometimes, even if you’re careful, your stomach may react poorly to a meal. Don’t let it ruin your Cuban vacation, though. Bring along these activated charcoal tablets to quickly and effectively flush out the toxins in your system and keep you enjoying your trip in good health.

5. Cooling Towels

A cooling towel will be your best friend in Cuba’s hot and humid climate. You can take them with you when walking around Old Havana, horseback riding, or touring a rum distillery. When you feel like you can’t stand the heat any longer, simply wet the towel, wring it out, and it instantly becomes 20-30 degrees colder than the air temperature. They’re so refreshing and easy to use, I never visit any place hot without one.

6. Mosquito Repellent Wristbands

Cuba is a humid, tropical island, which means the mosquitos come out in force. The last thing you want is to spend your vacation itching and worrying about catching a mosquito-borne illness. It’s best to avoid bites in the first place. Bringing your own mosquito repellent will be useful, and consider doubling up on the protection by using mosquito repellent wristbands as well! It can’t hurt, and the wristbands each last hundreds of hours, so you can put them on and just forget about them.

7. Jet Lag Relief Relief Pills

Although Havana is quite close to the Florida Keys, you’ll face a long flight to Cuba if you’re coming from the Pacific Northwest. Add on a substantial time difference, and there’s a good chance you’ll suffer the effects of jet lag upon arrival. To offset the issue, it’s sensible to take the prescribed amount of jet lag relief pills. These nifty tablets work both as a prevention and a cure, helping you make the most of your precious first day in the country.

8. International Power Adapter

Cuba uses Type A/B and C/L power outlets throughout the country, which corresponds to both the American and European style. Therefore, your American devices will work with some outlets but not with others, which can be confusing and sometimes dangerous to your devices. However, the issue is easy enough to remedy when you bring a universal power adapter to solve all your electrical woes. This one includes built-in fuse protection, dual USB ports to charge multiple devices at once, and is tested right here in the USA by strict quality control standards so you can rest easy knowing your electronics are safe.

9. Lipstick Sized Portable Charger

Now that 3G internet has finally arrived in Cuba, you’ll want to have a charged phone as you make your way around the island. If you plan on using your smartphone for navigation, music, and photos, you may find yourself in a situation where your phone has run out of battery at an inconvenient time. Bring along a convenient and reliable lipstick-sized charge like this one so you can charge your device on the go.

10. Quick Dry Travel Towel

Much like hygiene amenities, you can’t always rely on budget lodgings to provide you with a towel. And even if they do, it won’t necessarily be clean. Pack one a good quick-drying microfiber travel towel like this one. It’s compact and lightweight so it will barely take up any space in your luggage, and will be a lifesaver for the shower, the beach, or a rainforest hike.

11. Hanging Toilet Case

Unless you plan to stay exclusively in 5-star hotels, you may not always be able to rely on Cuban lodgings to provide ample amenities. Therefore, you’re going to need a sizable toiletry case to carry your shampoo, toothpaste, and anything else you may need. We love this one because it’s compact yet roomy enough to hold all of our toiletries, and it’s got enough compartments to keep everything organized.

12. Wind-Proof Travel Umbrella

If you plan to visit Cuba during the summer you will want to pack a travel umbrella. Cuba’s rainy and hurricane season is from May to September. You can count on it raining just about every afternoon during these months so you’ll want a reliable umbrella to keep you dry for this trip and all the ones to come.  In a good travel umbrella, I look for reinforced ribs that can withstand the rain, a comfortable handle, and portability. I personally use and love this travel umbrella  because it checks all of those boxes.

13. Travel Insurance for Cuba

Some say Cuba has the best doctors in the world, which is excellent if you happen to need them! Unfortunately, a trip to the Cuban ER or other healthcare facilities will end up costing you quite a lot of money as a foreigner. Add that to the ever-present possibility of things like canceled reservations and lost luggage, and you’ve got some variables to plan for. This is why it’s always prudent to purchase a reputable travel insurance policy to cover your unforeseen expenses. TravelInsurance.com is our favorite provider for their cost-effective plans and generous inclusions.

Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

14. A Budget Smart Phone

It may be safest to leave your expensive electronics at home, and to opt for a cheaper smartphone for while you’re traveling. I’ve done it for years, and it really puts my mind at ease to know that I’m not risking my device while traveling and I’m still provided with everything I need. Try a cheap, travel-friendly phone such as the lauded  Motorola G7 . With a reliable battery and a high-resolution camera, it’s the perfect budget-friendly device to take with you on the road.

15. Swimsuit

Cuba boasts some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, with resort towns like Varadero and Cayo Coco home to a few particularly picturesque stretches of white sand. And like many Latin countries, Cubans aren’t shy about exposing a little skin! With that in mind, you’ll need a few cute swimsuits to make the most of your beach time in Cuba. For men, check out these  short swim trunks  which will help you blend right in with the locals.

16. Flip-Flops

Even if you don’t spend a lot of time on the beach, in tropical Cuba, you can’t go wrong with a pair of flip flops to keep your feet cool and comfortable. These are trendy, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors for you to choose from. Stick with something a bit higher quality to be sure they’ll last through your entire vacation.

17. Sunglasses

Cuba is a sunny country, so you’ll need a trendy pair of shades. Be sure to bring something with good UV protection, as the sun’s rays in the Caribbean can be stronger than what you’re used to at home. We like these sunglasses because they’re stylish, offer UV protection, and are relatively inexpensive in case they get lost or broken.

18. Cigar Cutter

Cuba is synonymous with the cigar, and there isn’t a more quintessential travel experience than puffing on a hand-cut cigar with gusto at an outdoor Havana café. That said, you can’t possibly finish the whole thing in one sitting, and it’d be a crime to let it go to waste. The solution is simple: bring along an elegant cigar cutter. You’ll impress locals and fellow tourists alike with your worldliness and smoking expertise.

19. Phrasebook

Hablas Español? If not, you’re going to have a hard time communicating with the locals. Outside of the tourism industry, very few Cubans speak much English, so it’s vital to know a few phrases to get around. This phrasebook from Lonely planet will help you with everything you need.

Other Cuba Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Luggage Locks
• Travel Umbrella
• Travel Guide
• Water Purifier Bottle
• Hand Sanitizer
• Sleeping Mask
• Carry On Backpack
• Swimsuit Cover Up
• Waterproof Phone Case
• Gorgeous Dress
• Waterproof Dry Bag
• First Aid Kit
• Water Shoes
• Solid Shampoo
• Lip Balm with SPF
• Contact Solution
• Makeup Removing Wipes
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Pashmina Shawl
• Aloe Vera Gel
• Dramamine Non-Drowsy
• Noise Cancelling Headphones
• Travel Neck Pillow
• Cuba power adapter
• Small gifts*
• Hard Copies of Vital Documents
• Medications
• Cash in the Special Tourist and Local Currencies
• Passport Photos

*I also highly recommend bringing small gifts to hand out to the Cuban people you meet, such as granola bars, small candies, socks, simple medications, bandaids, small toys, any extra shoes you don’t need, etc… The people really benefit from anything you can give, but be sure to form relationships first, as Cubans can be quite proud and aren’t looking for handouts. The exception to that is giving out candies; hand them to kids, cab drivers, whoever, as people like to give them to their kids and grandkids and may ask you for a few.

What to Wear in Cuba

Roman Catholicism may reign supreme in Cuba, but the perpetually hot climate and a relatively relaxed attitude towards sexuality give Cuban women the freedom to wear what they wish. As a westerner, you’ll enjoy similar liberties as well. However, there is one big caveat to consider: Cuban men tend to be quite forward in their admiration of women. Whether Cuban catcalling is a compliment or sexual harassment depends on who you ask. Either way, you’re sure to receive proportionally more of it the less clothing you wear.

However, you decide to dress, remember that Cuba is hot and humid year-round. Light and breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are your best bet. Avoid clothing that is thick and heavy and doesn’t dry quickly, like wool. What should MEN wear in Cuba? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Cuban men tend to dress casually in their day-to-day life, and it’s perfectly acceptable for foreigners to follow suit. That said, men should still appear put together in public, so be sure that your clothing is clean, free from holes, and of a proper fit.

Packing for the Seasons in Cuba

Like other Caribbean nations, Cuba doesn’t experience the four seasons that we’re used to in much of the USA. Rather, the country has an extended wet and dry season each year.

DRY SEASON – November, December, January, February, March, April

Stretching from November through to the end of April, the dry season sees slightly lower temperatures and significantly less rainfall than the rest of the year. Unsurprisingly, this balmy weather also coincides with the country’s peak tourist season that runs between December and March as the northern hemisphere heads on holiday to escape the winter chill.

WET SEASON – May, June, July, September, October

Cuba’s wet season lasts from May to September. The precipitation peaks in June and again in October, and there will be a dry spell in either July or August. Downpours can last several hours or several days, so wet weather gear is a must if you’re planning a trip during this season.

The wet season also sees higher average temperatures of 86° to 90°F (30°-32°C, so bring plenty of breathable clothing. August is the hottest and most humid month of the year, so pack accordingly.

Cuban streets and sidewalks are notoriously uneven, so it pays to don a pair of comfortable shoes such as trainers should you plan on doing a lot of walking. Flip-flops are fine fashion-wise, although they’re not ideal for walking long distances.

Religous Sites – Although there’s no written dress code to govern Cuba’s countless Catholic churches, local worshippers appreciate it when tourists wear modest attire inside.

The easiest option for women is to pack a lightweight shirt or shawl to quickly slip on over a tank top that doesn’t cover the shoulders.

Both genders should remove hats and sunglasses upon entry and keep the volume to a minimum.

Beaches / Resorts – The short answer is to wear whatever you like. Much like other Latin American cultures, Cubans won’t think anything of a scantily clad swimsuit on the beach. Some stretches of sand even accommodate topless and naturalist sunbathers

A Night Out – Sipping on a mojito while listening to a lively local band is a quintessential Cuban experience, and you’ll enjoy it a whole lot more if you’re dressed for the part.

The amount of effort you should put into preparing for a night out really depends on where you want to go. Cheaper watering holes and touristy restaurants are pretty casual, so most travelers get away with shorts and flip-flops.

However, upmarket restaurants and hotels sometimes have a dress code in place, which may or may not be strictly enforced.

What NOT to Bring to Cuba

1. don’t take flashy jewellery.

Although Cubans do love flashing a little bling, it’s never a good idea to draw attention to yourself as a tourist traveling with valuables. Thankfully the solution is simple: leave your valuables at home.

2. DON’T BRING drones

Drones are banned in Cuba, as is any remote control flying toy, so leave yours at home.

3. DON’T BRING pornography

Porn is also illegal in Cuba, so you should resist the urge to bring anything of the sort into the country.

4. DON’T PACK any material critical of the government or the revolution

Now is not the time to be reading about the Cuban Missile Crisis or the pitfalls of communism. Although you’re unlikely to suffer severe consequences, customs agents will confiscate any material that doesn’t align with the official government stance. That said, you’ll want to be careful about voicing any overt criticisms of Cuba, communism, or the government while in public…you don’t want to run into any trouble, political or otherwise, while in Cuba.

5. DON’T TAKE wireless tech and GPS

The Cuban government has long had strict control over communication technologies, and they even resisted the urge to install mobile internet infrastructure until as late as 2018. Any kind of networking hardware such as routers and switches are forbidden, as is radio equipment such as walkie-talkies.

Aside from the standard smartphone, you cannot import GPS-capable devices without expressed written permission from the National Office for Hydrography and Geodesics.

6. DON’T BRING too many luxury items

Feel free to take your personal electronics into Cuba, but refrain from bringing too many of the same type.

Customs agents will assume a tourist with multiple laptops or smartphones is looking to skirt the country’s strict tax obligations and will impose an appropriate fee.

• Heavy jackets: Cuba gets a little chilly at night, but not enough to warrant a coat at any time of year. A long sleeve sweater or blouse will do.
• Thick jeans or heavy pants: aim for lightweight jeans or denim shorts rather than heavy ones that will be slow to dry and bulky in your suitcase.
• High heels or uncomfortable shoes: Cuba’s pothole-ridden streets and sidewalks are a nightmare to navigate in heels, so opt for a pair of strappy flats instead.

FAQs about Traveling in Cuba

1. what is the currency in cuba.

The Cuban Peso (CUP) is Cuba’s official currency. Unlike the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) which is no longer a valid currency in Cuba, the CUP is used by both Cubans and tourists. You will need to withdraw CUP to pay for most of your trip in Cuba. You can also use cash from your home currency when tipping. However, there are a few scenarios where cash is not accepted. For example, most hotels, resorts, and car rentals will only accept credit cards.

2. Is Cuba expensive?

Compared to the United States and other developed countries, Cuba’s cost of living is meager.

However, the dual currency system means that tourists pay a premium for virtually all services, which makes the country quite expensive by Latin American standards. Nevertheless, it’s still pretty cheap in comparison to the other resort nations of the Caribbean.

3. How much should I budget for a trip to Cuba?

A budget backpacker could get away with spending as little as $50 USD per day, excluding flights.

A midrange traveler would want around $100 USD daily, while a luxury trip would be closer to $200 USD per day.

4. How can I access my cash in Cuba?

US-issued credit and debit cards will not work in any Cuban ATMs or anywhere in the country. Therefore, you’ll need to bring all the cash you’ll need or take an expensive credit card advance from a local bank. Consider bringing an international credit card that will allow you to access ATMs in Cuba without charging international fees. Note that exchanging US dollars attracts a steep 10% commission on top of the usual forex fee, so it’s wise to first exchange your US dollars to Euros or Canadian dollars before entering Cuba. Debit and credit cards from other nations often work in Cuba but double-check with your bank before departing. Euros and pounds are readily accepted in Cuba and don’t attract the same hefty 10% commission.

5. Where should I go in Cuba?

The ideal itinerary depends on your interests and timeframe.

Havana is a must for its beautiful colonial old town and fascinating historical sites. Nearby, Trinidad provides travelers with an enticing glimpse into a bygone era. For beach resorts, the blindingly white sands of Varadero and Cayo Coco are pretty hard to beat. Santiago de Cuba is famed for its vibrant Afro culture, music, and festivals. The lush town of Viñales is an idyllic rural spot to unwind and explore the outlying tobacco farms.

6. How do I get around in Cuba?

Most tourists take domestic flights to cover longer distances. National carrier Cubana de Aviación serves 11 domestic destinations from Havana. Note that Havana has the only international airport in the country.

For shorter distances, it’s often more convenient to jump on an intercity bus. Viazul is the most prevalent tourist-friendly service and has frequent departures on all the major routes.

7. What’s the accommodation like?

Most budget travelers prefer to rent a room in a private family home called a Casa Particular, a cheap and cheerful option that provides a fascinating insight into day-to-day Cuban life.

Midrange and luxury hotels are available throughout all the major tourist destinations, some of which are mind-blowingly extravagant.

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Travel With Lady Chin

Welcome To Travel with Lady Chin

The Complete Packing List For Cuba: What To Bring

Caribbean , Cuba / January 21, 2022 by Lady Chin

During your visit to Cuba, you can expect the weather to range from hot and humid to well, just plain hot and humid! However, this Caribbean oasis can sometimes experience short spells of cool weather but don’t expect it to last long.

The first time I visited Cuba was in December, and I absolutely loved the warm weather as I was escaping the chilling temperatures in New York City. I’m also a huge fan of the humidity. I know, call me crazy!

As a frequent visitor, I’ve figured out what essential items I need to take with me and what things can stay home. Whether you’re visiting Cuba for five days or two weeks, this complete packing list includes recommendations for the best clothing and electronics to take with you to ensure your vacation is pleasant and hassle-free.

THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS, AS EXPLAINED IN MY DISCLOSURE POLICY.

Pin Me for Later! 

This is the sixth post in the Cuba series. Here’s the complete 10-part series:

Cuba travel series.

Travel Guide: The Complete Travel Guide For First Time Visitors

Money Honey: Cuban Currency Guide: Everything You Need To Know

For The Culture: 36 Ways To Immerse Yourself in Afro-Cuban Culture

The Ultimate Cuba Bucket List: 101 Fun Things to Do in Cuba

Cuba Bucket List: Top 10 Epic Things To Do in Cuba

Packing Tips: The Complete Guide To Packing For Your Trip To Cuba

Inspiration: 30 Photos That Will Inspire You To Visit Cuba

Travel Tips: 10 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Cuba

Trinidad: How To Explore Trinidad in 3 Days

Viñales: How To Take the Perfect Day Trip From Havana To Viñales

What to pack for your Cuba trip

Let’s start with the first essential item you’ll need to begin your trip, your passport! Before leaving home, be sure to check it’s not expired or close to the expiration date. A good rule of thumb is to ensure your passport doesn’t expire within the next eight months of your travels.  

Also, make copies of your passport, leave one at home with friends and family and take the other copies with you.  

Cuban tourist visa 

Tourist visas are required to enter the country. For U.S. travelers, air carriers including American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United have visas available for sale in the boarding area at a price ranging from $50-$100. You can also get the visas at the airport. Upon arrival, you will need to fill out the tourist card and show it to customs and immigration officials. 

Medical insurance 

All travelers to Cuba are required to have travel medical insurance. Travel medical insurance must include coverage for medical evacuation, emergencies, and repatriation. U.S. airlines include the mandatory level of travel medical insurance with your ticket purchase. Visitors can buy additional coverage at their discretion.

Other travel documents

Regardless of the country, I am visiting, I always bring my photo ID (driver’s license), global entry card, and Airbnb and tour reservation printouts. When I’m out and about, I carry my global entry card.  

During my first visit, I threw a bunch of unnecessary stuff into a giant suitcase and ended up lugging that thing around Havana. Whenever I moved to a new location, I regretted my poor packing decision. Don’t be like me; pack what you need and pack light! 

Since my tragic first experience, here’s the luggage I’ve been using that has drastically changed my travel experience for the better:

• I never leave home without my  Herschel Little America Backpack  – I put my accessories, clothing, toilet trees, books, medication, electronics, and travel documents here.  
• A small suitcase with wheels because, well, it’s just easier to manage! My go-to is the Travelpro Carry-on Spinner. I love this suitcase because it’s expandable and durable and I can fit everything in here without worrying that airport officials will stop me! I put most of my clothes, shoes, towels, and whatever did not fit in my backpack.  
• A small cute purse – I usually opt for a small non-flashy black bag that goes with everything. My purse is big enough to carry my phone, portable charger, mints, chapstick, sanitizer, and tissues. 

Clothing and shoes

The weather in Cuba is warm day and night, so I recommend packing light, airy, colorful clothing. Cuba is fairly casual so leave your formal and dressy attire at home. I packed lots of bright dresses, shorts, skirts, swimwear, and cute tops. The entire island is so colorful, and since I planned my outfits, my photoshoots came out beautifully. 

Here’s a breakdown of outfits and shoes for you to consider when packing for your trip. Depending on how long your stay is, you can decide how much or how little to pack but remember, packing light and repurposing outfits will save you lots of time! 

• 3-4 Tops and Blouses  – Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen
• 3 Dresses  – I love dresses and brought flowy colorful dresses that didn’t need to be ironed.
• 4 Shirts/Tank Tops  – Lightweight cotton and linen fabric tops
• 1 Pair of Pants  – Linen or cotton pants, just in case the temperature drops
• 2 skirts –  One long and one short
• 3 Pairs of shorts  – jeans and cotton
• 3 Swimsuits  – I like to switch it up and have options! 
• 1 Cover-up  – I packed a black cover-up that complemented my swimsuits
• 1 Pair of Flip Flops  – Ideal for walking around the city or for the beach.
• 2 Pairs of Sandals  – Again, I like to have options, but you can get away with bringing one pair of sandals. 
• Comfortable walking shoes  – You will do a lot of walking, be sure to bring comfortable closed-toed shoes. 
• Socks  

Accessories 

I don’t know about you, but I can’t leave home without a few staple accessories. This is, of course, all dependent on the type of activities you have planned and your personal preference. Here are a few items to bring with you:

• Hat – It’s almost always hot and sunny, and you’ll want to make sure to protect yourself. Plus, hats are great for the beach. 
• Sunglasses – Always a must! 
• Small umbrella – Just in case

Toiletries 

For ease and convenience, I recommend packing your toiletries as you’ll find it difficult to find brands you are familiar with in Cuba. While there are plenty of pharmacies to choose from, there’s a high probability you won’t be able to find what you need. 

Here is the toiletries list

• Face wash 
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Shower gel or a bar of soap
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hairbrush/comb
• Sunscreen – The sun is scorching hot, and having sunscreen is essential.  
• Body and face lotion – I opt for lightweight lotions with SPF sun protection
• Shea butter – It’s an excellent alternative to sunscreen! 
• Makeup remover wipes
• Facial tissues
• Chapstick/lip balm
• Makeup – mascara, lipstick/lipgloss, a light foundation, or concealer. However, it’s so hot; I choose to go makeup-less! 
• Hand sanitizer – I bring at least 2 travel-sized sanitizers, one for my purse and another just in case I misplace one bottle.
• Face masks – We are still in a pandemic, and you want to make sure to protect yourself.
• Satin bonnet or pillowcase – I like to bring both in case my bonnet slips off during the night. Double protection! 
• Bug spray – I’ve started using this  plant-based bug repellent . It smells great and isn’t greasy like other bug sprays. 
• Feminine products 
• Toilet paper – Some restaurants and other locations will either make you pay a small fee for a few sheets of toilet paper or not have any at all. Trust me; you will be happy you packed a roll. 
• Travel size detergent 
• First aid kit – Safety first!
• Personal medication 
• Tylenol 
• Condoms – Cuba has a shortage; at the end of the day, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Miscellaneous Items

• LifeStraw  – The water bottle with a built-in purifier or Nomader – collapsible water bottle. Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Cuba due to poor sanitation, old pipes, pollution, and even human waste. Stick to bottled water or one of the water bottle options listed above. 
• Lightweight sand-free microfiber towel – You will thank me later; this towel comes in handy for the beach too!  
• A key or combination lock 
• Zip-lock bags
• Laundry bags or plastic bags 
• Snacks – I always like to pack my snacks. Late-night snack bars and gas stations were difficult to find after certain times. 
• Packing cubes – ideal for keeping items in your suitcase organized. 

Electronics and Entertainment 

Cuba is honestly the ideal place to completely disconnect from the world and be fully present with your surroundings. The internet isn’t readily available, and I don’t recommend working in Cuba, especially if you need an internet connection. Here’s what you will need:

• Phone  – To take pictures, use offline maps, and listen to music.
• Universal charger/adaptor  – The power outlets in Cuba are the same as in the U.S. and Canada. If you’re traveling from outside of North America, you’ll need an adaptor. Best of all, this adaptor works in 150 countries! This is my go-to adaptor when traveling outside of North America. 
• Portable charger – I never leave home without my portable charger! Having multiple ports is perfect for charging multiple devices. 
• Charging cable 
• Headphones – Perfect for in-flight entertainment, on the go, and on day trips. Get  noise-canceling headphones  here. 
• Speakers  – I don’t leave home without my  JBL 4  speakers. These speakers are small enough to travel with and loud enough to keep the party going! Oh, and the speakers are waterproof, making them perfect for bringing to the beach! 
• Camera and memory card  – I use my phone to take pictures. I plan to get a camera next year! 
• Book –  I prefer having a physical copy  
• Travel notebook  – to log your travels or significant contacts numbers

Important Apps for Cuba

As I mentioned before, internet access in Cuba isn’t always available. Here’s a list of apps you should download before your trip:

• Offline maps  – maps. me and Galileo maps 
• Triposo Travel Guide  – I like this app because it has information on sights, places to eat and drink, hotels, hostels, weather, currency, and transportation. The app also features details on different locations, the history, and reviews from other travelers, which I found helpful. 
• Duolingo  – awesome app for brushing up on your Spanish speaking skills
• Google Translate  – comes in handy for translating Spanish into English or any other language. 
• Splitwise  – great for friends tracking shared expenses
• XE converter  – perfect for checking exchange rates

Should I bring a gift for your host? 

It’s totally up to you whether you want to give a gift to your casa particular host or new friends. In the past, I’ve brought clothes and hygienic products. Trust me, whatever you decide to give will be greatly appreciated. 

• Toothbrushes and toothpaste. These things can, of course, be found in Cuba, but there’s not a lot of variety.
• Female hygiene products
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Beauty products such as moisturizers and even makeup

What not to bring to Cuba?

Here’s a list of a few items I would recommend leaving at home

• Expensive jewelry or anything important you wouldn’t want to lose
• Heels – I guarantee you won’t even want to wear them! 
• Formal/fancy clothing 
• Designer handbags 

Conclusion – Lady Chin’s Two Cents 

Cuba is such an incredible place, and I hope this guide helps you narrow down what to bring to Cuba and plan for your trip. Feel free to share your comments below, and let me know if you have any questions! 

If you liked this post, please share! 

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20 things to know before visiting Cuba

Jan 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Be ready for your visit to Cuba with these top tips on what to expect © Westend61 / Getty Images

To a first-time traveler, Cuba can seem like a confusing jigsaw puzzle, particularly if you’re breaking free of the resorts and traveling around on your own.

The Spanish spoken here is fast and hard to decipher, many streets have two different names and the country’s fickle and highly complicated monetary situation could fill its own guidebook. 

To help you be prepared, here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to Cuba.

1. Double-check your insurance

You are required to have medical insurance to visit Cuba and will need to bring digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are made at the airport. If you arrive without insurance, you’ll be asked to buy a Cuban policy at the airport for US$30.

2. Fill out your passenger information in advance

Cuba uses an online form called  D’Viajeros  to gather traveler information, including immigration and health data, in advance of travel. Fill out the form digitally up to 72 hours before your arrival in Cuba.

3. Every visitor needs a tourist card

To enter Cuba, all visitors need to present a completed tourist card . It’s usually available through your airline (ask when booking) and included in the price of your ticket.

If not, you can purchase one through a Cuban travel agency. Costs range from US$50 to US$85. Citizens of 20 African and Asian countries require a formal visa to enter Cuba. Check the situation for your country before booking.

4. Cash and currency: it’s complicated!

Money in Cuba is confusing, even to Cubans . Since the country abolished convertibles (CUC) in January 2021 and took the US dollar out of circulation in June 2021, there has been massive inflation and the emergence of a rampant black market. The knock-on effect is a bewildering dual economy.

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP), but foreign currencies are also widely accepted, especially by private businesses who need hard cash to buy non-rationed goods in MLC (freely convertible currency) shops.

State-run enterprises and banks use official exchange rates. However, the prices of the superior services offered by private businesses generally reflect black market exchange rates.

Hence a main dish in a private restaurant in Havana will cost around CUP$500 (US$21). That’s an expensive meal if you’re paying in pesos bought from a Cuban bank.

However, most private restaurants will also accept payment in euros using a more favorable exchange rate. Some will even have a separate menu with prices printed in euros.    

When buying something from a private business – be it a restaurant, casa particular (private accommodation) or taxi service – it’s usually best to pay in a foreign currency. Always ask upfront what currencies they accept and what exchange rate they use for their published peso prices.

Euros is the most interchangeable currency and the one preferred by Cubans. You can also use and exchange Canadian dollars and pound sterling.

US dollars still circulate on the black market, but we don’t recommend bringing them. The best bet, when you arrive, is to keep most of your money in a foreign currency and only change small amounts into pesos for incidentals like museum entry, concert tickets and tips.

5. MLC is a currency with no cash form

The Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC) is a currency approved by the Cuban government in 2020 that can be used in certain shops to buy higher-end goods.

The currency doesn’t exist as cash and its value is pegged with the US dollar. It’s used mainly by Cubans with special magnetic cards. 

Tourists needn’t worry too much about MLC$, although prices will sometimes be displayed in the currency in state-run enterprises such as cigar shops or airport souvenir stores where you can pay with a non-US credit card.

6. Only some credit cards will work

Credit cards are increasingly popular in Cuba and in many state-run businesses are the preferred (and sometimes only) method of payment.

Despite promises made in the Obama era, credit cards linked to US banks are not accepted. Private businesses almost never have credit card machines, meaning your only option is cash.

7. Pack your favorite casual clothes – and men need a shirt

Dress in Cuba is casual, so you can leave your high heels and tux behind. The only real dress code is in cinemas, theaters and nightclubs, where male patrons are required to wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves or half-sleeves.  

8. Cuban Spanish is fast and often informal

If you speak Spanish, you’ll find that Cubans mostly use the informal tú form of address, rather than usted . In the plural, ustedes is used over vosotros .

If you don’t know someone, it’s best to address them as señor or señora , though you’ll hear Cubans use all kinds of substitutes such as socio , hermano , papa , chica/o  and asere .

9. Cuban cities are where the streets have two names

In most Cuban cities, the streets have two names: a contemporary one that is noted on maps and marked on street signs, and a pre-revolutionary one that is still used widely by the locals.

This can become confusing, especially when locals, unaware of the new street names, start giving out directions or addresses using the colloquial nomenclature. Always double-check addresses and, if possible, get two potential names for the street you’re looking for.

10. Understand the local art of queueing

Cubans have to endure a lot of long waits in boring queues, so they’ve invented a way of doing it that doesn’t involve standing in line. In a Cuban queue, you simply roll up at the bakery/clinic/visa office and yell out to the assembled masses, "Quien es último?" (Who’s last?).

Hopefully, someone in a 400m vicinity will answer your polite entreaty with the word, "yo" (me). That person is your yardstick. As long as they’re still around, feel free to go for a walk, sit in the lotus position or buy ice cream. When they get called up, be on your toes, you’re next!

11. Ask questions more than once  

Thanks to heavy bureaucracy, answers to simple requests aren’t always straightforward – or even correct. Probe politely and ask at least five different people before you make important decisions.

12. Bring something to keep you warm on a cold bus journey

Cuba has a countrywide state-run bus service called  Víazul that connects all of the main cities and some of the smaller towns. Prices are charged in MLC$ (the same rate as the US$) and tickets must be paid for with a credit card either in person or online.

A second service called Conectando, run by Cubanacán, also puts on buses in peak season along some of the more popular routes. Bring a sweater/jacket for long bus rides – the air-conditioning is akin to a chilly day in Vancouver.

13. Cuba is considered a safe place to travel

Cuba is one of the safest countries in the Americas in terms of violent crime. Pick-pocketing is more common but not rampant, and is mostly avoidable if you follow a few basic precautions: Wear a money belt, use safe boxes in hotel rooms and don’t flash your cash in public.

14. Solo female travelers report receiving unwanted attention

Solo female travelers report experiencing a good deal of unwanted attention, but it didn't necessarily spoil their enjoyment of traveling in Cuba.

There is a fine line between being open and friendly and harassment, and some men can cross that line by being overly familiar or asking too many personal questions. Learn some key phrases in Spanish that make it clear when you're not interested.

15. Beware of forgeries

Never change money with unlicensed traders on the streets. You run the risk of receiving estafas (forged notes).

16. Bring your own medicines

On one level, Cuba has a good health system (it invented and quickly distributed three COVID-19 vaccines); on the other, it is perennially short of pharmaceuticals.

Bring all the prescription medications you think you’ll need, as well others you might like ibuprofen or paracetamol. If you’d like to donate some medicines to the people of Cuba, it is currently possible to bring in 10kg of medical supplies tax-free (pack them in a separate bag). 

17. Avoid dodgy cigars

Cuba has its share of jineteros (touts) spinning elaborate stories about super-cheap, high-quality cigars procured by their brother/mother/cousin from the factory. Don’t believe them. Instead, buy your cigars in state-run shops such as the Casa del Habano chain. Cigars sold on the street are invariably factory cast-offs and not genuine.

18. Driving is not as easy as you think

With light traffic on the road, driving might seem like an easy proposition, but with elevated rental prices and cars often in short supply, it’s not always so.

Add in sporadic signposting, potholed roads and a wide array of hazards – goats, horses, bicycles, kids and slow-moving, fume-belching trucks – and you might want to consider getting the bus or, at least, employing the services of a chauffeur.

19. Bring toilet paper and sanitary products

The pandemic made the provision of antiseptic hand lotion more common, but the same can’t be said of toilet paper. Carry your own roll and/or gravitate to four- or five-star hotels when you’re caught short in the city.

Re-usable pads and silicon cups, or disposable pads and tampons are must-pack items if you're expecting your period while you're in Cuba. These are in high demand here.

20. Don’t drink the water

The water won’t kill you, but it might give you a little queasiness or an upset stomach. Fortunately, bottled water is abundant and cheap. An even better idea is to bring your own filter bottle or water purification tablets.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024

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Home » Central America » Packing List

Cuba Packing List? • You HAVE to see these 23 Items (2024)

Cuba sparks the interest of every globetrotter; it captures the imagination with its fascinating history, images of Che Guevara and “Viva la Revolución” plastered all over the streets, and old vintage cars – coupled with its life-loving people, infectious salsa music, the world’s best cigars and rum, and beautiful landscape.

It’s as if Cuba were a magical little island trapped in time.

And you’re dying to see it for yourself – we get it! But before you head out for an epic backpacking adventure through Cuba, there are some guidelines and tips to follow for knowing what to pack for Cuba.

But – don’t fret – we’ve put together this comprehensive survival guide for you with our top 23 needs packing checklist, what to wear in Cuba and what to leave behind. We’ve also included a useful breakdown of Cuba’s seasons and what to pack accordingly.

Ultimate Cuba Packing List

What to pack for cuba: personal gear, the basic stuff to pack for cuba, final thoughts on what to pack for cuba.

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Capacity > 30L
• Price > $299

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

• Capacity > 37L
• Price > $400

GoPro Hero 11

• Resolution > 5k

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

• Price > $600

Insurance From World Nomads

• Price > Click For a Quote

This may be one of the few destinations where our first rule of what to pack isn’t to pack light. There are items you’ll be hard pressed to find when you visit Cuba and will need to bring with you. Because of sanctions and its economic situation, don’t assume you can pop into a convenience store and pick up your favorite brand of toothpaste if you forget to pack it. Your brand options are limited – if you can find the item you need at all.

Best Backpack For Cuba:  Nomatic Travel Bag

Before you even take on the task of figuring out what to pack for Cuba, you’ll need an amazing backpack to pack it all into. For all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag .

The Nomatic travel bag covers every detail to make backpacking travel the best experience. Because of its smart design, it manages to provide loads of packing space in a convenient, carry-on size package! Its handy built-in pockets make plenty of room for all the necessities on your what to pack for Cuba checklist – you’ll find separate compartments for important items like shoes, water bottle, electronics, underwear and socks. As an added bonus, there’s also an RFID-safe and cord management pocket.

You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack.

Best Suitcase For Cuba:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. 

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Nomatic has been an industry leader when it comes to travel gear and that reputation is reflected in the quality build design and functionality of the Carry-On Pro suitcase. 

Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase.

Best Camera For Cuba:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities. Visiting Cuba will give you loads of opportunities to get shooting.

But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black .

It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of a different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie-mode).

Think of a camera purchase like this as a long term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here. If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

Best Sim For Cuba – HolaFly eSim

The good news about Cuba is that there is some 4g and 5g Internet coverage. The bad news is that your native SIM card will not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around Japanese mobile phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can simply install an eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the package you want, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport.

eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

Best VPN For Cuba – PIA VPN

In case you don’t know this, a VPN is a Virtual Privacy Network. It is basically a piece of software or programme you run that essentially “hides” your IP address and therefore your computer’s location. 

All travellers should use a VPN as they can be used to access blocked sites in countries that have internet censorship as well as enabling you to stream TV from backhome! Digital Nomads however REALLY need a good VPN as it provides extra protection against fraud, trackers and other dubious cyber-scum bags.

There are a lot of VPN providers out there but we use PIA VPN as they offer a solid level of protection at a very tempting price (if you buy the annual package its a bargain!)

Packing Cubes For Cuba – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few.

These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value.

Wondering what to bring to Cuba? What to wear in Cuba? Whilst we are not going to micro manage your Cuba packing, we’re gonna throw in a few carefully picked suggestions for some great inclusions.

Good Shoes – Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

Unless you are simply gonna spend tour whole time in the beach, there will probably be some serious walking involved in your Cuba experience. Whether it’s walking Havana’s battered old streets or doing a full on jungle trek, these will have you covered. They are also pretty good for Salsa dancing.

I admit that most shoes that are also good for hiking are not the most attractive pieces of footwear. But they are some of the most comfortable and deliver good ankle support for a long day of walking about town. I mean, your body is already going to be suffering enough from all of those Cuba Libre’s.

Plus, the mountains and hills of Cuba offer excellent day hiking opportunities, so packing a pair of hiking shoes gives you the option (and eliminates excuses) to go head for the hills when the city becomes too much. 

Check out the  women’s Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero .

Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your Cuba packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

A Good Daypack for Hiking –  Osprey Daylite Plus

If you intend on doing any hiking, doing a sugar tour or bussing around the country then you will need a daypack. They are great for carrying water, hat’s and gloves and for packing sandwiches for lunch. We love Osprey products and this daypack is our personal pick. They are also great for beach days too.

The Osprey Daylite Plus has a mesh-covered panel to keep your back cool and fresh by minimizing contact with the back of the pack itself and allowing air to get between you and the pack.

Check out our   full review of the Osprey Daylite plus  for more details.

Additionally, you can attach it to other Osprey packs in case you want to add more capacity and carry just one piece of luggage… but the reviews on this feature are mixed.

Waterbottle –  Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz. 

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy plastic water bottles. Tap water is a mixed bag in Cuba but at least you can buy a big 5l bottle and fill this every day before you set of exploring.

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal water bottle to get not just for your Cuba trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth. 

If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another waterbottle again.

A Hat –  Patagonia Fitz Roy Trucker

As you should know by now, the sun in Cuba is strong and you will undoubtedly be spending a lot of time outside. Having a hat on your Cuba packing list is a good way to ensure your face is protected from the sun throughout the day.  This is also a baseball cap and if there is one thing Cubans love even more than rum, salsa and socialism, it is baseball.

Patagonia makes great hats. I have probably bought three or four of these over the last five years. Simple. Practical. Comfortable. That is what you are after.

Suncream:  Thinksport Safe SPF 50+

By now, all of us are as pasty as the driven snow from sheltering in place for the last six months. Am I right? This means we are even more vulnerable than usual to the sun’s fierce rays. Packing sunscreen for Cuba may seem like a no brainer, but you would be amazed how many sun-burned cocktail-toting people you see wandering around. 

Thinksport Safe SPF 50+ sunscreen gives folks strong sun protection in a non-oily formula that’s free of gluten, paraben, phthalates and biologically harmful chemicals.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Another backpacker/traveler favorite for staying organized is a  hanging toiletry bag . It’s extremely helpful to have all of your accessories neatly gathered in one bag that you can hang for easy accessibility, especially when counter space isn’t plentiful or even available. A well-organized bag is worth having whether you’re tree whilst camping or a hook in the wall – it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Historically, I have been the guy who has my stuff all over the bathroom, so getting one of these things really changed the toiletry game for me. Plus they are not too expensive either. A no-brainer essential. 

Make sure you fill it before you set off for Cuba though as some cosmetic and toiletries are hard to come by once you’re there.

Money Belt – By Pacsafe

Whilst Cuba is not particularly dangerous, crime can still happen and tourists are sometimes targeted.

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong.

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a trip to Cuba

• A few pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
• 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
• (Sexy) underwear x 2/3
• Mosquito Repellent
• Ladies: a few dresses, pants, outfits, or desired lady apparel for a night on the town.
• Dudes: A few collard shirts or something half-way decent for a night on the town.Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
• Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
• Phone charger
• Amazon Kindle
• Basic first-aid kit
• Copy of your passport just in case
• Cash – it is hard to get cash once inside of Cuba
• Packable Towel

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Ok, amigos, that should do it! Your Cuba survival guide – complete with Cuba packing essentials covered by our top 23-needs packing list, tips on what to wear in Cuba based on seasons that fit into Cuba street fashion, special tips for gals and guys and what NOT to pack for Cuba.

Knowing there’s lots of stuff you can’t get once you arrive in Cuba can be nerve-wracking – but just follow our tips, do your best to pack smart and let go of the rest. Once you’re there, you’ll relish in Cuba’s electric vibe, people and culture  – so sit back with a mojito, listen to the music and go with the flow!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Cuba’s tap water isn’t very polluted, it is no safe for a traveler because it’s a hard water and your stomach is not used to it.

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What to pack for Cuba: The Ultimate Cuba Packing List

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2020

Categories Cuba , Packing Lists , Travel Blog Post

Cuba, being a Communist State is a strange one to know exactly what to include in your suitcase. There are some things that just aren’t possible to buy in Cuba!

After our most recent trip to Havana Cuba , we feel we have mastered the Cuba packing list – what to pack for Cuba and what you really don’t need for your trip. This list will include only the essential items you will need.

Being a Carribean Island, Cuba is pretty well warm and sunny year round. While packing a snow jacket is never going to be on your packing list, you might need a rain jacket or an umbrella. This will depend on the month you choose to visit Cuba.

If you are still deciding when to go to Cuba, you can see our guide for the best time to visit Cuba .

Notice: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you find something helpful and decide to make a purchase, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

CUBA PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK FOR CUBA?

Cuba Packing List

NECESSARY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & INSURANCE FOR CUBA 

Cuban tourist visa.

Along with your passport, let’s start with the most important item on your Cuba Packing List – the Cuban Tourist Card – entry to Cuba requires a Cuban Tourist Visa.

For prudent travelers, it is best to apply for one online in advance. This will cost you a little more but you will have piece of mind knowing you have the necessary visa to enter Cuba.

Alternatively, you can often apply for a tourist visa at the check in desk before boarding your flight. We paid $25 in Cancun for a tourist visa to Cuba that we were able to get at the check in counter of Interjet before flying.

A tourist visa from Mexico to Cuba is one of the cheapest available. It will be more expensive if you are applying for a tourist visa from the United States so you may want to extend your next Mexican vacation out a little and include Cuba. Here is a guide of the best way from Cancun to Cuba .

Medical Insurance

This is one thing we did not know about before entering Cuba. It is absolutely essential that you have medical insurance to access Cuba.

Immigration officials can ask you for proof of medical insurance before allowing you entry to Cuba.

We were not asked for proof of insurance but my Dad was stopped and questioned as to whether he had insurance before proceeding to be allowed to enter Cuba by the immigration officer.

Don’t forget to pack your passport. It goes without saying that you will be denied entry to Cuba without a valid passport (check the expiry date!)

Check out our favourite cute passport holders to protect your passport and pass customs in style.

With all these documents, it is always prudent to have a good travel document organiser .

SHOULD YOU BRING CASH WITH YOU TO CUBA?

We read a lot before going to Cuba that cash is absolutely essential in Cuba and you really can’t get by with just bringing a credit or debit card into Cuba, that you will need some USD or Euros.

While Cuba won’t accept credit cards virtually anywhere, it is not 100% true that you need to bring in USD to Cuba.

When you arrive at the airport in Havana, there is an ATM where you can use your credit/debit card to withdraw cash. There are also numerous ATM machines in downtown Havana. We never had any difficulty using an ATM machine while in Cuba. By the way, in case you’re wondering where to stay in Havana , having these amenities (and wifi) is one of the reasons a place in Old Town is a good idea.

We would suggest it is best practice to bring some USD with you, only as a back up. The conversion is quite horrendous so it will be best to withdraw cash at the ATMS but in case of any issues, you will have the cash ready to convert as a back up.

Note: Cuba has 2 currencies, the CUC (tourist currency that you will use) and the CUP (that locals get paid in). Spend all your CUC before you head to the Havana International Airport to leave Cuba as for some reason or another, it is not accepted. This is where the USD in your pocket might come in handy.

CUBA TRAVEL GUIDES

While it is not always essential to bring travel information in the form of physical documents with you, Cuba is the exception for the reason that there is very little internet in Cuba.

There are two options: plan everything you need on your laptop by researching all our guides to Cuba or purchase a guide to Cuba to take with you. We would recommend the Lonely Guide to Cuba.

Unless you are really organised you will need a guide. I couldn’t believe how many times I thought, I will just look up a restaurant for dinner, Oh no, crud I can’t – no internet (unless i walk to a hotel, buy a wifi card and sit in the lobby – talk about inconvenient!!)

PACKING CUBES

Before you begin to pack for Cuba, you will want to get yourself some really great packing cubes.

You have no idea how easy it was and how my life changed after using packing cubes – you can actually find what you are looking for! 

Packing cubes don’t have to be fancy. Some good simple packing cubes like these ones will do just the trick!

SUITCASE OR BACKPACK

Obviously, you will need a suitcase or backpack to pack your clothes for Cuba.

In Central America, we always recommend traveling with a backpack due to the dirt roads. Cuba is a bit of a 50/50 destination. You can use a suitcase here and have no problem.

• We would recommend this suitcase
• Or the Hynes 40L Carry on Backpack , especially if you plan to take long bus rides, like from Havana to Trinidad.

Visiting the tobacco growing region is a popular day trip or overnight stop: read about getting from Havana to Vinales . In addition to your suitcase or backpack, we would recommend a small, carry on anti theft backpack which you can carry around during the day and feel completely comfortable

If you prefer to just bring a carry on suitcase instead of a large one, we have written a whole post dedicated to the best carry on suitcases .

We currently use the Chester carry on spinner and we LOVE it. I have it in pink .

WHAT TO WEAR IN CUBA?

I would say anything goes in Cuba. You could dress sloppy or like you are going out for a nice lunch and no-one would blink an eye.

As stated above, Cuba is a warm destination year round so there is no need to bring any more than a light jumper or cardigan with you if you are traveling in the winter months (although honestly, I don’t think I needed it).

If you plan on getting nice photographs for Instagram, I would recommend some bright and colourful clothing. Even the Cubans tended to dress in bright and colourful outfits and they matched absolutely perfectly to the surroundings including the vintage cars.

Note: Cubans find it difficult to access clothes like we do. If you have some extra luggage room, bring some clothes you don’t want anymore to gift. I have no doubt they will really appreciate it!

Bright Dress or Skirt for Women

This super cute, pink dress would match perfectly with the vintage cars. If you are looking for a colorful outfit, we would recommend a bright blue, yellow, pink or orange.

If you want to go for something vintage, this 1950s style dress would match absolutely PERFECTLY with the classic cars. I really wish I found this dress before my trip!

A fancy outfit if you visit a Dinner Show

Two of the most popular and iconic dinner performances in Havana are The Tropicana Show and the Buena Vista Social Club.

If you plan to visit either of these shows in Havana, you will want to pack a more dressy outfit. You might be able to double up whatever you bring for your cute photos as a dinner outfit.

A rain jacket

If you visit Cuba in rainy season (May – October) you will definitely want to bring a rain jacket with you as it can rain up to 50% of the time during these months.

Honestly, no matter what time of year you are planning to travel to Cuba, I would suggest that it is prudent to bring a rain jacket with you.

Mike has one one very similar to this  Columbia Men’s Watertight Jacket which he has got a lot of wear out of.

I have one very similar to this  Columbia Women’s Switchback II Jacket that I absolutely love.

A cute, big hat + sunnies

It is a Carribean island so it is very hot. You seriously won’t get by without a big hat

Big hats are not only sun smart but look great in your photos.

Other clothing items you won’t want to forget: Summer short sleeve tops – If you want to pack light a lightweight, fast drying shirt is the best way to go. We would recommend this Icebreaker Merino Women’s T-shirts for women and the men’s Woolly Men’s Merino Wool Short Sleeve Breathable long pants – A pair of cheap, lightweight chinos are always a win for men and I personally love these breathable Women’s Leggings for travel. Shorts and skirts – It is hot in the Caribbean so don’t forget some shorts and skirts for the hot summer days. Icebreaker has a really cute pair of lightweight travel shorts for women. These comfortable walking shorts are a good option for men. Swimwear + rashie – Due to the heat, it is essential that you don’t forget your rashie. I have the predecessor to this Rash shirt by Roxy.  You can never go past a plain black  Billabong rash shirt for men. Quick dry underwear if you want to do some washing . We would recommend the Icebreaker women’s underwear and the Icebreaker men’s underwear

Horseback riding through the tobacco fields in the shadows of the dramatic karst mountains is a bucket-list item

OTHER THAN CLOTHES – WHAT TO BRING TO CUBA?

Other than clothes, here are some other things not to forget to bring to Cuba with you.

Don’t think you can just buy what you need in Cuba at a local supermarket. There are specialised stores for cosmetics in Cuba, they don’t have a great range of items and they are very expensive.

Therefore, we would highly advise to bring whatever you need with you to Cuba. For this reason, you might like to do a checked bag so you can bring liquids galore into Cuba including all your favourite shampoos and face wash.

The alternative is to use a dry shampoo . My sister loves dry shampoo but I can’t get my head around it yet.

Here are some things to check off in your bag

• Moisturizer
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Sanitary items for women. The most eco friendly way to travel long term is to use a menstrual cup

When traveling it is advisable to keep your cosmetics as organised as you can using a cosmetic travel pouch .

Bring any Medicine you think you might need in Cuba. There is a slim possibility you will experience food poisoning in Cuba (Mike did!) so it is advisable to bring some gastrostrop or other medicine to relieve this. Ask your doctor!

If you are coming on a long haul flight, you can buy some great jetlag medicine online that will make sure you make the most of your vacation.

Insect Repellant or bracelets

It is definitely necessary to bring some good, high insect repellant or insect bracelets into Cuba.

We are a fan of insect bracelets as they don’t smell like spraying DEET all over your body.

Glasses or Contact lenses

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure you bring them with you to Cuba. It is difficult to freely buy products as you would at home in Cuba so it is really necessary to have what you need ready to go with you.

Cuba is a destination that is warm and sunny year round. It is also very expensive to buy sunscreen within Cuba so we would highly advise to bring some with you.

If you plan to go snorkeling or swimming at the beach in Cuba, it is necessary to use some good reef friendly sunscreen .

Snorkel Gear

Taking about the beaches in Cuba, there is some great underwater marine life to see at the beaches in Cuba. For this reason, we would highly recommend bringing a good snorkel set with you.

A silk sleeping bag

If you plan on sleeping locally in casa particulars on a very tight backpacking budget, we would suggest bringing a silk sleeping bag with you. Sometimes levels of sanitary can be a little lower than the western world.

Bringing along a silk sleeping bag ensures that you feel comfortable sleeping at all times. 

A water filter 

You can buy bottled water in Cuba but it tastes vile and I think it might not be filtered correctly (not sure about that claim but we were continuously feeling a little ill after drinking it)

In hindsight, I wish I just brought my own water filtration device with me. It would be better for the environment and makes the water 100% safe for drinking.

Our airbnb host told us that she drinks straight from the tap in Cuba. While I wouldn’t recommend that, it gives you piece of mind that filtering your water yourself would be 100% safe.

Water and electricity tends to have a way of continuously going out in Cuba. Our water went out multiple times in Havana. All the more reason to bring that dry shampoo . 

We didnt have a problem with an electricity outage while we were there but this is common in Cuba. For this reason, we would recommend bringing a small travel torch with you.

Microfiber Towel

If you decide not to stay in a luxury hotel, it is always advisable to bring a small microfiber towel in case sanitation isn’t quite up to par. If all is well, you can always make use of it at the beach.

It may be hard to find an umbrella to buy while in Cuba so we would suggest bringing a small umbrella with you.

FOOT WEAR IN CUBA

You will need 2 types of shoes in Cuba, flip flops and sneakers.

I would bring a good pair of sandels, a pair for the beach plus a pair of sneakers for your trip.

• We are personally huge fans of Havaianas Flip Flops and probably wouldn’t buy anything else due to their comfort and durability.
• If you are looking for a pair of new runners, we both own  Nike Free Runners and absolutely love them, they are so comfortable!

Having sneakers on your trip is absolutely essential, especially if you are plan on spending hours walking the picturesque cobblestone streets of the Old Town of Havana.

This is one of the best things to do in Havana so you won’t wait to cut this section of your trip short as your feet are crippled. You will also need closed in shoes if you plan on heading from Havana to Vinales to go horse riding.

ELECTRONICS IN CUBA

Wifi is virtually non existent in Cuba. Okay that is a bit of a lie, you can get wifi but it is dial up speed and required you to sit in a lobby of a major hotel and pay 2 CUC an hour.

Unless you want to spend a lot of money and be hella frustrated, you might want to bring a book or downtown a movie to your laptop to watch at night in Cuba.

Oh, and in case you are wondering, there is literally 0 english tv in Cuba so you are going to want to bring something to do unless you plan on salsa-ing the night away.

Here are some electronics not to forget:

• Your Camera (We use a Nikon D750 and we LOVE it!) If you are looking to upgrade your camera we would highly recommend it.
• Laptop (download some good tv shows)
• Travel Adaptor (if you are coming from a country outside of the US)
• Travel Converter – It is necessary to bring a travel converter with you as Cuba mostly uses 110. In comparison, US and Canada use 120 volts and Europe uses 220 volts. I have wrecked many a hair straightener not converting to the right voltage.
• Portable Power Bank – It is always best practice to bring a portable power bank with you in case your electronics die on a trip.

WHAT NOT TO BRING TO CUBA?

Okay so we have covered what to bring to Cuba, now let’s briefly discuss what not to bring to Cuba:

• Your drone: First things first, sad but true, you cannot bring your drone into Cuba. If you do it will be taken away at the airport. You can get it back but you will have to fine to get it.
• Toilet paper: A lot of people advise to bring toilet paper into Cuba. We didn’t find any need for it.
• Expensive Items you don’t want to lose.

Learn from locals about the traditional methods of agriculture which have survived largely unchanged for several centuries – part of the Outstanding Universal Value recognised by UNESCO

CUBA PACKING LIST: TICK THESE ITEMS OFF AS THEY GO IN!

DOCUMENTATION:

• Tourist visa
• Reservations
• Cash (Optional)
• Shorts/skirts
• Rain jacket

MISCELLANEOUS

• Insect repellant
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Water bottle + filter

MORE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO CUBA

Im totally jealous you are headed to Cuba. I would return in a heartbeat, it is such a cool place.

Here are some more resources that will help you plan your trip to Cuba:

• 50 Amazing Things to do in Havana
• The Best Time to Visit Cuba
• Havana to Vinales Day trip 

SAVE CUBA PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK FOR CUBA? TO PINTEREST

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

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The Ultimate Cuba Packing List

• Food in Cuba
• Cuba and the Art of Tobacco
• Money in Cuba

Cuba is unlike any other destination in the world. The island’s culture, history and natural landscapes are dense and diverse, creating extraordinary experiences that leave visitors thirsty for more.

The best way to revel in Cuba’s island magic is to be informed and come prepared. We put together a list of everything you need for your trip to Cuba (from location-specific items based on activities and regional climates to the basic necessities).

What to pack for Havana

The capital city of Havana is the fourth largest metropolitan city in all of the Caribbean. With 500 years of history and diverse neighborhoods, each boasting their own personality, Havana satisfies a hungry traveler’s appetite. Travelers visiting Havana should ready their dancing shoes and salsa attire. Private salsa lessons with a true professional will have you eager to hit the night scene and show off your new moves.

Hats and hair ties will serve you well during the convertible classic car experience. Put on your shades and sunscreen and enjoy the salty island breeze as you race down El Malecón in a 1957 Chevy Bel Air.

What to pack for Viñales

The evergreen oasis of the Viñales Valley captivates visitors with its reflective ponds and manicured rows of tobacco. The lush region is home to some of the most skilled farmers on the island who have perfected the art of growing Cuban tobacco through traditions passed down from generation to generation.

During your trip to Viñales, bring your comfiest clothes as you ride through the valley on horseback or take an ox cart to visit a seasoned cigar maker. Embrace your adventurous side and taste a world-famous Cuban cigar hand-rolled before your eyes.

Leave your swanky clothes in Havana, and do not be afraid to get a little dirty as the red soil of the region follows you around the local farms.

For Travelers Visiting Cienfuegos and Trinidad

Cienfuegos is more than a pit-stop on the drive to Trinidad. Initially settled by the Taino indigenous people before being colonized by French and then Spanish settlers, Cienfuegos is a history buff’s dream. Bring your walking shoes and an umbrella as you learn about the colonial history and visit the battleground for the Spanish-American war that sits just outside the city.

As you continue the ride to Trinidad, have your camera ready to capture the ever-changing Cuban terrain. Verdant forests, sparkling beach views and mountains covered in a blanket of vegetation greet you as you cruise the southern part of the island.

16th Century cobblestone roads signal your arrival to Trinidad. Horse-drawn carriages and local markets welcome you to this colonial town.

When traveling to Trinidad, make sure you leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs. Buy embroidered works of art hand-made by locals or coffee grown in the heart of the Escambray mountains.

Nature-lovers should pack a pair of hiking shoes and a swimsuit to explore the Escambray Mountains and visit the sparkling shores off Trinidad. Shout from caves and dance under waterfalls. The emerald pools and leafy landscape will leave you speechless.

Packing List – The Island Essentials

Many items that are available for purchase in other destinations are difficult to find in Cuba. For that reason, it is important to pack the following no matter what part of the island you explore first:

• Toiletries – shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, shaving cream/razor, etc.
• $100 cash per person per day
• Camera/ phone for pictures
• Hand sanitizer
• Comfortable clothing for walking and nice clothes for evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light rain jacket and/or umbrella
• Sweater or light jacket – depending on the time of year
• Cap or hat for sun protection
• Band-Aids and Neosporin
• Bug repellent
• Over the counter travel medication
• Prescription drugs in original labeled containers
• Sanitary pads, tampons, contraceptives

What NOT to pack

• Anti-Cuba literature
• Aerial drones
• CBD/THC products
• Satellite phones (cell phones are fine)
• Hand-held GPS equipment
• Fresh fruits and vegetables

In addition to the essential items above, some guests bring donations when visiting Cuba. Providing donations or gifts for the Cuban people is much appreciated and can be a rewarding experience. Ask your host when and where would be the best time and place to offer these gifts:

• Monetary donations
• Deflated soccer balls
• School supplies
• Pack of crayons, colored pencils or markers
• Small children’s backpack
• New bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap, face wash

Sustainable Packing Guide

Help us minimize our footprint in Cuba by following our Sustainable Packing Guide .

The first trip to Cuba is awe-inspiring, heartwarming, fun, culturally rich and filled with multifaceted experiences. Come prepared, stay present, be open and take in everything Cuba has to offer.

Transportation In Cuba: How To Get Around Safely

Travel Medical Insurance: Preparing For Your Trip To Cuba

How To Connect To The Internet In Cuba

Privacy overview.

What to bring to Cuba: Your Ultimate Family Guide 2023

For us, two weeks in Cuba with our kids was like travelling 20 years ago. In those days it was just you and your backpack and away you go. Now with a family we had to think about what to bring to Cuba.

So we tried to recreate our early days of travelling with a family of four and Sawyer was still in nappies. Our plan was just one backpack (85L), two shoulder bags (that we could take onto a flight) and a nappy bag. Lukas also had his small suitcase on wheels.

He kept his toys, games and favourite blanket in here.

We also took a car seat for Sawyer but quickly realised it wasn’t worth it.  

We read a lot of other blogs/websites reading what families would bring and in most cases we would need an extra bag or two if we followed that advice. 

For us, it was about keeping it as light as possible. So we just took what information we thought was useful.

When travelling with a baby/toddler in Cuba you really need to be prepared as most essentials e.g. nappies, wipes, baby formula and food that you would buy in your own supermarkets are not available in Cuba.

Playa Rancho

Important Read First

On July 6th 2023 the US Government considered Cuba to be a State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST). This means if you have visited Cuba from the 12th January 2021 you can’t apply for the ESTA document to enter the US if you are a citizen of the participating visa wavier programrme.

Instead you will need to apply for a B2 Visa by completing the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160.

See here on the Travel.State.Gov website .

This visa process takes time and is expensive as you will need to be interviewed at a US Embassy or Consulate possibly within your country.

In New Zealand it costs $185us dollars so for a family of 4 it can add up. Make sure you do your research. Fingers crossed that the US Government change their mind… one day.

Before you arrive in Cuba please make sure you have a Cuban tourist visa if your country is required to have one. Most countries are required to have one but here is a list of countries that don’t. Tourist Visas can be issued through the airline you are flying on (please check before booking) or through a Cuban Embassy.  

We flew out of Mexico (Cancun) and got our visa at the check-in desk at Cancun Airport. They filled it out for us and we paid around $100 US dollars, for our family, in Mexican pesos.

Also, you will need comprehensive travel insurance (including medical coverage) and will most likely be asked to show proof of this when you pass through Cuban immigration.

If you don’t have proof you will be asked to pay for local health insurance.  

Finally, within our ever-changing world make sure to check the FCO travel advice for Cuba or other Cuban travel advice sites for up-to-date information on Covid and travel advice.

You can also read our post on things you need to know before you travel to Cuba.

Havana’s Vintage Cars

Below is our comprehensive list of what we packed. And yes everything fitted into our backpack and two shoulder bags.

Travel documents

As mentioned above travel insurance is a must, just like in any country you visit. Make sure you bring a copy of your travel insurance just in case you asked for proof when you arrive.  

When we arrived we weren’t asked but we read that people have been asked and were unable to show proof.  

They then had to purchase Cuban travel insurance before they could leave the airport. This is expensive too.

Che Guevara in Plaza de la Revolución

We also brought our immunisation documents, we thought if you need medical treatment for any member of our family we could show these.

Money (Cash)

It’s best to bring cash and exchange it at the airport. We took euros as you get a better rate, for American dollars you get a lower rate. And at times US dollars won’t be accepted.

We didn’t exchange all our cash as there is Casa’s de Cambio (CADECA) in many hotels and tourist facilities around the country.

We also managed to use our Visa card at the ATMs on Obispo Street in Havana . Just look for the green shop, you can’t miss it.

National Capitol of Cuba in the distance

Just make sure your visa/master card etc is through or aligned to a US bank as your card won’t work.

Nappies/Wipes

Now the first challenge for us was to pack enough nappies to last the trip as we were unsure how easy it would be to find nappies in Cuba.

We budgeted for 5 per day and this took up around a 1/3 of the backpack as we also needed wet wipes and nappy bags.

Again wipes were a challenge to budget on… so we packed 2x 250 packets. We made it safety through. We arrived back in the United States 17 days later with just 3 nappies remaining. Pretty tight really. We also packed a packet of swimmer nappies.

Grand Theater of Havana

First Aid Kit

We packed our first aid kit with everything we would need to mend every scratch and bump.

But we also included;

Paracetamol Ibuprofen Iodine Itchy bite cream Thermometer Medical tape Plasters Syringes for the medicine Eye wipes or drops Medical tape Lip balm and any medication the kids or us require.

One thing you need to remember is the Cuban health system is 1st class and it has the most doctors per capita in the world.

Our neighbour Miguel, in Havana, was a doctor who had served in many countries including the Iraq/Iran war.

We had only one day when Connie and Lukas felt a little sick. He gave them both a spoonful of his local medicine and by the afternoon they were back to best.  

Boys relaxing in the waters of Playa Giron

Water Bottles

The kids brought their own water bottles and we washed these regularly using dishwashing liquid and hot water from the jug/kettle.  

We filled them at night with bottled water, and placed them in the fridge ready to go for the next day.

Our Airbnb owners also offered us their bottled water. A good way to take of the environment too.

Baby Food, Formula and Snacks  

This is something we packed, again unsure if we could buy formula in Cuba and even if we could, would Sawyer like it.

So we measured out the minimum amount we would need and then added a little more. We also added about eight single-use sachets just in case, better to be safe than sorry.

We brought our own bottles (three of them) along with a brush and a small bottle of detergent.

All our hosts were amazing and so helpful. They always boiled the jug/kettle so we had hot water to wash the bottles and make up the formula.

Otherwise, if your baby needs it, bring it.  

Connie and Ernest

We also packed a few snacks the kids enjoyed though these only lasted a few days.

Now I’d read many articles/blogs about the food in Cuba and most cases, it gets a bad report however we loved it. Our boys enjoyed pasta, rice, beans, pizza, vegetables and a range of fruit.

We always took the breakfast option with our hosts, often our kids ate free while we paid 5 CUCs each. The breakfasts were always amazing, eggs, bread, spreads, treats, fresh juices, and sometimes even pancakes.

Our kids were always full.

This is something we always pack, especially if beach days and destinations are on the cards.

Our bag was perfect when we spent at the beaches in Playa Giron,   Playa Rancho Luna outside of Cienfuegos and Playa Ancon in Trinidad.

Caleta Buena

Here we pack our towels, beach blanket, any snacks, water bottles, sun-cream and anything else we require for the day. This bag then folded up and went into our backpack.

To be honest we spent most of the time in jandals (flip-flops).

Sawyer wore sandals however we did have a pair of shoes each as some places we visited had bumpy/rough roads/streets.

For those looking at hikes then shoes are a must.  

Car-seat – though we wish we hadn’t 

Look we brought our one but quickly realised it was a waste of time and energy to carry it around Cuba.

Most cars don’t have car belts, some of the newer green and yellow taxis in Havana might do but otherwise, we had no luck.

Faro Castillo del Morro

Since we were using the Viazul buses to travel around we left ours with our neighbours in Havana.

Universal Power Adaptor

Just goes without saying really, if you want to charge your camera battery or phone then you are going to need one.

This is a great bag to use, here we keep Sawyers bottles, spare clothes, nappies, wipes, nappy bags (to mask the smell of those nappies), Connie’s camera and a change mat.

Change mats are important, don’t expect change areas or tables in Cuban bathrooms.

Changing Sawyer in our accommodation was easy. But when we were travelling or exploring it was difficult.

I changed Sawyer behind statues, park benches, standing up on the bathroom floor if there was room.

Fidel in Plaza De La Revolucion

Makes for some great travel stories though. We either carry the nappy bag over our shoulders or across the handles of the stroller.  

Photography

If you are anything like me I’m happy to snap away with my phone but my wife is into photography so her camera is a must.

She usually packs it in the nappy bag.

Depending on the season you visit mosquito/bug spray might be a must-have.

We travelled in January (winter) so no need for any of that. However, locals who we stayed with, especially on the coast, said that mosquitos were pretty bad in the summer.

So it’s a good idea to have your spray if you are visiting that time of year.  

Sunscreen and After Sun

You will need to pack sunscreen, even in winter. We couldn’t find any to buy in Cuba, we looked just in case we ran out.

There is nothing worse than getting sunstroke, it can certainly be a downer on your trip.  

Boys chilling and eating muffins on the beach. Given to them by our wonderful hosts

Just in case you or your kids get a touch of too much sun make sure you pack your after-sun lotion.  

We packed the bathroom basics, liquid soap, shampoo/conditioner, toothbrushes/toothpaste and floss as well as lady products.

Now, this is something I always pack, ever since my first trip to the Middle East back in 1998. Sweet rash cream!

Great to ease chaffing and most importantly when you or the kids have the ‘Johnny Cashes’ e.g the burning ring of fire.

It won’t stop you from going to the toilet 10 times a day but it will help getting there just a little bit easier.

Currently, the product we use is called B3 and like our credit card we never leave home without it.

Sawyer enjoyed walk the streets in his favourite sandals

We also included a tube of Bepanthen just in case Sawyer had a nappy rash.

Hand Sanitiser  

Obviously, this is an absolute must, we made sure to pack plenty. We took 1 bigger bottle and 3 mini bottles.

The main thing we found was not all bathrooms around Cuba had soap to wash your hands. It was also great when the kids needed a snack, a couple of drops and away you go.  

While bedding is something you need not worry about for those with toddlers/babies you might want to bring a travel cot.

We have always used a travel bubble from Samsonite because it’s quick and easy to put up and down, folds up small, lite weight, has a mattress and is fully enclosed.

It also fits easily into our backpack.

Sawyer loved his stroller (Shark design), great storage underneath for the water bottles

However, any portable travel cot will do. both our boys loved their travel cots.

Kid’s Games/Activities/Toys

For that little home comfort, Sawyer loves travelling with his favourite blanket and soft toy bear, it helps him sleep better too.

We also pack a colouring book and pencils, a few toy cars and a couple of tennis balls (Lukas uses these too).

For Lukas, travel board games and playing cards are the go. We have taught Lukas all the card games we learnt when travelling the world.

Lukas also has a travel diary which he writes in daily and then adds photos, tickets, etc upon our return home.

Sawyer filling his face with pasta, not sure how much went in his mouth

Finally, one ‘interesting’ things we pack is a packet of balloons. During our down times or a quiet evening, we’d blow up a balloon and the boys happily played together.

Now we never travel with a flash all the bells and whistles baby stroller.

We pick up a cheap one before we leave, as long as it has a storage basket for our water bottles, any extra clothes and a blanket then we are happy.

It folders up easily to store and or carry around if needed. It also means that if it goes missing then it’s no big loss, financially.

Clothes in our backpack or Shoulder Bags

Cuban hosts offer washing and drying so you don’t need to overpack.

Adults – this is all I brought and it was pretty much the same for Connie except she added in a couple of dresses.

3/4x t-shirts 2x long sleeved t-shirts 1x shirt – (just in case we go to a flash restaurant) 3x shorts 1x jeans 2x sweatshirts/jackets 1x raincoat 5/6x pairs of underwear 2/3x pairs of shoes 1x hat/cap 2x togs/swimsuits 1x pair of shoes and flip flops  

Kids – again some were pretty much the same for both boys

4/5x t-shirts 2x long shelved t-shirts 3x shorts 1x pants/jeans 2x sweatshirts/jackets 1x raincoat 5/6x pairs of underwear 1x pair of shoes   1x flip flops or sandals (Sawyer wore sandals as they were easier on his feet) 1x hat/cap 2x togs/swimsuits

Connie and my clothes fitted into our shoulder bags, while the kid’s clothes and the rest of the gear went into the backpack.

Sawyer picking his treat at one of the cafes in Havana

Final Thoughts

For us it was all about travelling light, knowing there would be plenty of walking around and we were mainly travelling by bus.

I carried the backpack and a shoulder bag and Connie carried the other shoulder bag and the nappy bag.

As the trip wore on space became available in the bag as nappies were used and milk powder was drunk. Which meant we could purchase the odd piece of art or souvenirs.  

On the day we flew back to the US we packed what we needed and left our shampoo, body soap, leftover milk formula, etc with our neighbours to pass on to anyone who needed it.  

This was greatly accepted and next time we visit I would bring a few other things (toys, kid’s clothing, etc) to donate.

Travelling light is the best option and Cuba is the perfect destination for families, the people are beautiful and friendly.  

Hanging in the famous El Floridita Bar listeninmg to live music

We created so many wonderful memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.  

Meet the family

We are a family of 4 living in New Zealand. I’m a teacher (great profession for traveling) and my wife Connie is a section administrator. We are also proud parents of two travel-loving boys.

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Cuba Healthy Travel Packing List

Pack items for your health and safety.

• You may not be able to purchase and pack all of these items, and some may not be relevant to you and your travel plans. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
• This list is general and may not include all the items you need. Check our Traveler Information Center for more information if you are a traveler with specific health needs, such as travelers who are pregnant, immune compromised, or traveling for a specific purpose like humanitarian aid work.
• Remember to pack extras of important health supplies in case of travel delays.

Prescription medicines

• Your prescriptions
• Travelers' diarrhea antibiotic
• Suture/syringe kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Altitude sickness medicine

Medical supplies

• Glasses Consider packing spare glasses in case yours are damaged
• Contact lenses Consider packing spare contacts in case yours are damaged
• Needles or syringes (for diabetes, for example) Requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Suture kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Diabetes testing supplies
• Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens)
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace

Over-the-counter medicines

• Antihistamine
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cough drops
• Cough suppression/expectorant
• Decongestant
• Medicine for pain and fever Examples: acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen
• Mild laxative
• Mild sedative or other sleep aid
• Saline nose spray

Supplies to prevent illness or injury

• Hand sanitizer or wipes Alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol or antibacterial hand wipes
• Water purification tablets See CDC recommendations: Water Disinfection .
• Insect repellent Select an insect repellent based on CDC recommendations: Avoid Bug Bites
• Permethrin Permethrin is insect repellent for clothing. It may be needed if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Clothing can also be treated at home in advance.
• Sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) with UVA and UVB protection. See Sun Exposure .
• Sunglasses and hat Wear for additional sun protection. A wide brim hat is preferred.
• Personal safety equipment Examples: child safety seats, bicycle helmets
• Latex condoms

First-aid kit

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antifungal ointments
• Antibacterial ointments
• Antiseptic wound cleanser
• Aloe gel For sunburns
• Insect bite treatment Anti-itch gel or cream
• Bandages Multiple sizes, gauze, and adhesive tape
• Moleskin or molefoam for blisters
• Elastic/compression bandage wrap For sprains and strains
• Disposable gloves
• Digital thermometer
• Scissors and safety pins
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Oral rehydration salts
• Health insurance documents Health insurance card (your regular plan and/or supplemental travel health insurance plan) and copies of claim forms
• Copies of all prescriptions Make sure prescriptions include generic names. Bring prescriptions for medicines, eye glasses/contacts, and other medical supplies.
• Family member or close contact remaining in the United States
• Health care provider(s) at home
• Lodging at your destination
• Hospitals or clinics (including emergency services) in your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country or countries

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THE ULTIMATE PACKING GUIDE TO CUBA

What to Pack for a trip to Cuba ? Here a few of our favourite tips. From the specific items you’re going to need in Cuba to all those basics recommended for pretty much any holiday!

Firstly it’s important to remember that Cuba isn’t one of those holiday destinations that has all the conveniences of back home. So if when you arrive, you suddenly realise that you’ve forgotten something, you won’t just be able to pop down the street and buy it! That’s why packing well before you go is so important.

The Documents You’ll Need to Bring to Cuba

Valid Passport

You’ll need a passport with at least 6 months validity to enter Cuba.

 Valid Tourist Visa

A Cuban Tourist Visa can be obtained online by citizens of many countries including the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand. You can check out Cubavisas.com for more information. If you are flying out of an airport in Mexico, Central America or the Caribbean you can obtain when you check in for a flight, with this process only taking a few minutes.
For a full breakdown see our Cuba Visitor Visa blog.

Advance Passenger Information Online Form

Before you leave for Cuba you must fill in the Advance Passenger Information online. You can only complete the form if it is 72 hours or less until your fight departure time. To fill in your Advance Passenger Information, you’ll need to visit 
 https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio.

Medical Travel Insurance

You can’t enter Cuba without sufficient medical travel insurance! A full rundown here .

Money and Banking Tips for Cuba

Bring enough foreign currency to exchange to CUP as well at least one credit card for those unexpected emergencies. Our guide to money in Cuba has all you need to know!

First Aid Kit and Medicine Kit

Expect the unexpected is always the best maxim when traveling, so a well stocked first aid kit is essential! Here’s a list of our recommendations on what to pack for a trip to Cuba.

• A good tropical strength insect repellent is a must in Cuba.
• Mini first aid pouch you can keep with you at all times with band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic cream, insect bite cream etc.
• Diarrhoea medication + electrolytes + probiotic in tablet form
• Contact lens solution – hard to buy in Cuba
• Topical ointment for bites such as an iodine solution or cortisone cream
• Aloe Vera gel for minor burns including sunburn

Health and Personal Care Essentials

• Toothpaste – not always easy to find in Cuba
• Roll on deodorant
• Moisturiser
• Sunblock SPF 50. Try to bring one with titanium oxide or zinc oxide. Both have been found to be environmentally safe and not harmful to coral reefs but will still protect your skin from sun damage. You can check here to see which brands qualify
• Small hand Sanitiser
• Shampoo + conditioner
• Baby powder for chaffing, shoe deodoriser, also doubles as a dry shampoo
• Cosmetics you’re likely to want to use

Clothing and Accessories for Cuba

Cuba is a tropical climate so the weather ranges from quite warm to hot or hot and wet, so think summer clothing!

• Lightweight, breathable clothing is best. A permeable material or cotton.
• Long pants/jeans or dresses for that night out on the town
• Overpack on underwear! You may want to change twice a day and as a basic rule, the more you pack the less times you’ll have to wash!
• Good comfy walking shoes or sandals/flip flops and maybe dressy shoes for dancing some salsa!
• Travel size micro fibre towel.
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• A rain jacket or poncho (because you never know)
• Small umbrella for sun and for those brief downpours from May through to October.
• A sarong style garment can be useful. It can act as a towel, a skirt, a blanket etc.
• Small cloth or canvas carry bags to keep on you as you walk around. They’ll come in handy as many markets and shops won’t have a carry bag to offer you. There’s a lot more you can do to be a responsible tourist in Cuba too!

Water Bottle with a Filter

What to Pack for a Trip to Cuba? Well a water bottle with an internal filter is a well recommended for your trip. It enables you to use the local tap water which means you’ll always have access to safe water and won’t have to really on finding bottles to buy plus you’ll be being environmentally responsible. Regardless, having a filtered water bottle on your Cuba packing list will give you the peace of mind that you’ll always have safe water to drink. This way you’ll be able to refill from any tap knowing that you have safe water to drink. Plus of course you’re not polluting the environment! It might also be useful to pack chlorine dioxide or iodine water purification drops just in case you find yourself in a place where you have no water bottle with inbuilt filtration and the only option is the local tap water. You can find more tips here in our article about responsible travel .

Electronics and Gadgets for Your Cuba Trip

• Travel adapter plugs (Cuba uses 100v and has Type A and B sockets )
• Portable power bank for phones and EarPods
• A multi socket power board is useful when there is only one outlet in the room (quite common) and you need to put several gadgets on to charge at the same time
• And if you are bringing a camera bring extra camera batteries and a spare charger
• If you have equipment that uses AA and AAA batteries then bring extras of those too as they’ll be hard to find!

Phone Apps for Cuba

Some handy app suggestions for when you find yourself offline as at times you inevitably will. Remember you’ll need to have them loaded and set up when you’re connected to WiFi before you venture out.

• Offline maps – Local 3G/4G coverage can be patchy and offline maps will ensure you can always get your bearings. Both GOOGLE MAPS and MAPS.ME offer this option
• Weather – WINDY APP is very popular with hikers
• Language – Offline options here include SPANISHDICT.COM , DUOLINGO and even GOOGLE TRANSLATE offers offline access
• VPN – This will go a long way to keeping your data safe when using public wifi and also may enable you to access sites that are embargoed in Cuba.

What NOT to Bring to Cuba

• More than the equivalent of 5,000 US dollars
• Aerial drones and walkie-talkies
• More than 2 mobile phones, laptops, iPads per person
• Camera gear is recommended to be kept to a basic kit eg: 1 x camera body, 2-3 x lenses. It’s possible that if you bring a full array of lenses or a large amount of gear you may be assumed to be a journalist when entering customs at the airport, which may cause you some unnecessary hassle

What to Bring to Cuba for the Locals

If there’s any space left over in your bag once you’re done packing for yourself, then maybe consider what you might be able to bring for the local in Cuba. If you’re short of ideas this blog will help.

So that’s it! You’re packed and ready to go. Now get ready to disconnect from the everyday and to let the warmth and charm of Cuba and its people sweep you off your feet!

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Complete Cuba Packing List: Essentials and Insiders’ Tips

Congratulations: if you’re consolidating your Cuba packing list, you’re already on-track to experience the country’s Caribbean beaches, rustic cities, national parks, and colonial-style beach towns. A comprehensive list of things to pack for Cuba is arguably the most important thing you need in your final stages of preparation.

Cuba is not the type of destination where you can rock up and pick up any missing supplies, because the shops in Cuba stock only water, alcohol, tinned goods, and basic hygiene items – you don’t want to forget anything essential, like medications, tampons, or even your favourite moisturiser. Double and triple-checking that you’ve packed everything on your Cuba travel checklist is key.

My Cuba packing list covers every essential and optional item that you might want to consider packing for Cuba. I visited Cuba in February 2022, so if I’ve travelled to the country first-hand and know exactly what you do and do not want to include in your Cuba travel essentials. Once you have sorted the practical elements of your trip, you will be free to explore beautiful places such as the best beaches Havana or Topes de Collantes Cuba .

Table of Contents

Cuba Packing List: What not to bring to Cuba

Let’s start with what you are not allowed to bring into Cuba. Luckily, the list isn’t particularly long, and it’s unlikely you’re going to miss any of these items.

Banned items in Cuba according to custom laws

Do not bring any of the following items to Cuba, because they are banned by custom laws:

• Pornographic material.
• Narcotics (drugs), excluding prescription drugs accompanied by a copy of the prescription.
• Live animals.
• Any item or piece of literature negatively representing Cuba or the Cuban revolution  or that could be deemed dangerous in terms of national security.
• Fruit or meat products. If you arrive with a meat sandwich or a fruit salad, expect it to be promptly taken away and destroyed.
• Global Positioning Systems (GPS) such as Sat Navs. Mobiles, telephones, tablets and laptops are permitted, but inbuilt GPS or location services should be disconnected or disabled.
• Items with an antenna e.g. a walkie talkie.
• More than two bottles of liquor.
• More than one carton of cigarettes.
• Household appliances like toasters and kettles.
• More than two laptops  per person.
• More than two cameras  per person.
• More than two mobile phones  per person.

Cuba’s custom laws also state that one person can bring a maximum of two pieces of checked-in luggage, and they must weigh no more than 32kgs . Your airline should already be aware of this rule and actively reinforcing it.

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What should you not bring to Cuba to save space?

Aside from the list of banned items in Cuba, there are some items that it doesn’t make sense to pack for Cuba:

• High heels:  High heels don’t pair well with the rough terrain in Cuba. Many of the towns and cities have cobbles. Others have very dusty roads, dirt tracks, or rough terrain. Leave your heels at home, unless you’re spending all of your time in a Cuban resort and want to wear them to dinner.
• Heavy coats : In general, Cuba is hot and humid. While the country does experience some tropical downpours, you’ll be absolutely fine bringing along a lightweight waterproof jacket.
• A laptop or other remote work equipemnt: If you need internet access for your work, you might want to think again about spending a workcation in Cuba. Internet access is sketchy and access to any WiFi network requires a paid-for Etecsa card, which gives you a limited amount of time on the network (usually one to five hours). I found that the Wi-Fi would cut out nationwide for days or hours at a time.

Cuba Packing List: Is there a dress code in Cuba?

While the custom rules are strict, the  dress code in Cuba  is not so much. To summarise my in-depth guide to what to wear in Cuba, you don’t need to cover your arms, shoulders, legs, or chest, unless you feel more comfortable doing so to avoid catcalling.

If you want to blend in with the locals, women can wear long, floaty dresses or a skirt and vest top. Men can wear a cigar shirt and jeans or a t-shirt and long shorts. Either way, Cuba is a hot and humid country, so breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen or sweat-wicking fabrics are your best friend.

Since 2020 (and still mandatory in 2023), everyone in Cuba must wear a face mask in public places. This includes tourists. This includes indoor and outdoor spaces. Disposable face masks are tricky to find in Cuba, so you should pack plenty of your own face masks. Disposable face masks are better than fabric face masks, not just in terms of quality, but also because they are more breathable in hot and humid weather.

Cuba Packing List: Should you bring cash to Cuba?

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when packing for Cuba is to forget to pack cash. As I explain in more detail in my article on  money for Cuba , Cuba is mostly a cash-only country. The government imposes a steep exchange rate on any cash withdrawn from the country’s ATMs. This means that every time you withdraw cash, you’re getting nowhere near the amount you’d expect in return.

On top of that, the ATMs in Cuba are notoriously unreliable. They don’t work half the time (take it from me, I had a 20% success rate during my two weeks there).

The best currency to bring to Cuba is euros . While US dollars are currently widely accepted by Cuban locals, they’re part of a black market. You will need to exchange some of your money into Cuban National Pesos (CUP), Cuba’s closed currency, because different currencies are used for different transactions in Cuba.

Cuba Packing List: What to pack for Cuba

To avoid forgetting anything, I’d suggest printing this page and using it as your Cuba travel check-list or bookmarking the page so you can return to the list whenever you need.

In Cuba, I recommend travelling with a backpack rather than a suitcase, because it’s easier and quicker to transport over rough travel terrains. Getting around Cuba  is mainly done by bus or taxi, so you may need to walk between the bus station and your accommodation.

• One backpackers’ backpack or one suitcase : Remember, if you’re taking carry-on luggage, check that the dimensions and weight of your luggage don’t exceed your airline’s limits. If you’re taking a backpack, I’d advise getting a backpack fitted professionally to avoid any back or shoulder pain.
• One day-sized backpack : If you’re worried about pickpockets, which do operate in Cuba but aren’t very common, a theft-proof bag is a great deterrent for thieves.
• A laundry bag.  This can be used to separate your fresh clothes from your dirty clothes. If you’re on a budget, a zippered plastic bag or a tied-up bin bag will do the job.
• Camera bag.
• A money belt to store valuables close to your body.

Travel documents

Travel documents should be packed in your carry-on baggage. You might want to consider storing your travel documents in a zippered folder to keep them in one place and protected from possible liquid spillages.

• A visa (tourist card) for Cuba . These can be purchased from online suppliers like Cuba Visa , from your airline, from selected airlines, or directly from the Cuban embassy. The easiest option is to buy a visa from an online supplier. Order the tourist card in advance, because you will need time for it to be delivered.
• Details of your travel insurance . If you’re yet to purchase travel insurance, you should make sure that it includes Covid-19 coverage. I recommend  Staysure  for single or multiple trips per year and SafetyWing for digital nomads.
• A copy of your completed  Covid-19 health declaration form , which should be completed on the  D’Viajeros  website before you travel.
• A copy of your flight’s booking details , so you can receive your boarding pass upon arrival at the airport. Remember, many airlines require you to check-in online 48 or 24 hours before your arrival at the airport.
• A copy of accommodation, tour, car hire, or transport bookings.

You must keep up-to-date with Cuba’s current Covid-19 entry requirements , as they are constantly changing. While Cuba has been permitting tourists to enter the country without proof of a negative PCR or a complete vaccination record since April 2022, this could be subject to change.

If you’re planning on bringing valuables such as a laptop or tablet to Cuba, the most important thing to consider is whether your accommodation is secure. The hostel I stayed in in Havana,  Lunass Hostel , was on the third floor of a high-rise building and had very secure, prison-style bars on the front door, so I felt perfectly safe leaving valuables in the locked private room, even when I didn’t use the safe.

The view from the balcony at Lunass Hostel in Havana. Book your stay on Hostelworld .

If you’re staying in a dorm room or a hotel which experiences high footfall, look for rooms that have lockers or safes.

Personal Items

• Any prescription medication , along with a copy of the prescription.
• Wallet or purse with cash  (in euros).
• A debit or credit card . Any cards you bring to Cuba should not be affiliated with a US bank, because these cards are blacklisted in Cuba. I’d recommend using a travel card instead, such as  Monzo  or  Revolut , which have travel perks such as no international handling fees. If you bring a debit or credit card not affiliated with a US bank, I’d suggest taking a second card as a back-up.

Electronics

• Mobile phone and case.
• Earphones.  Earphones will be lighter to carry than headphones. You might want to consider a pair of Bluetooth earphones, which can connect remotely to your mobile phone. This will make your taxi ride or airplane ride more comfortable.
• Phone charger(s).
• Type-A plug adaptors . Plug sockets in Cuba accept type-A plugs. This is the same type of plug used in the United States and Canada. The following  type-A plug  is suitable for Cuba. However, I always recommend using an international travel adaptor, which can be re-used on future trips around the globe.  The iBlockCube international travel adaptor  is a fantastic, comprehensive option.
• Camera, including a memory card and camera charger
• A power bank.
• iPod (optional).
• An  underwater or action camera  to capture all of the action at Cuba’s waterfalls and beaches (optional).
• A  Kindle (optional).

The main thing to bear in mind when packing clothes for Cuba is that it is hot and humid. In the summer months, the average temperature is 27°C (81°F). In the winter, the average temperature is 21°C (70°F).

Most of your clothes should be made of sweat-wicking or breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen and as airy and floaty as possible. The hot climate also means that you might need more changes of clothes than you’d expect. Remember, I have an article all about the  dress code in Cuba  if you need more inspiration.

• Swimwear , including spares if you’re planning on plenty of beach or waterfall trips.
• Socks , including spare socks
• Underwear and bras , including spares.
• A lightweight rain jacket . Cuba does experience the occasional tropical downpour, so you should arrive prepared with a good-quality, lightweight raincoat such as the Mountain Warehouse Waterproof Packable Jacket for  men  or  women .
• Lightweight, breathable t-shirts, tops, or cigar shirts.
• Shorts and skirts
• Long trousers or jeans.
• Maxi, midi or mini dresses.  Long and floaty is your best friend.
• Optional:  Beach cover-up or kimono .

If you’re wondering what shoes to bring to Cuba, you’re going to want a sturdy, closed-toe pair of shoes. There are cobbled streets in destinations such as Trinidad and very dusty roads in the cities and beach districts. You’ll also need a pair of sandals or flip-flops for the beach.

• Sandals or flip-flops  for the beach.
• Sturdy trainers
• Hiking shoes : If you’re planning hikes, you might want a sturdy pair of hiking boots to protect your feet and ankles. There are rough terrains in the national parks, so while it’ll be possible to tackle the trails wearing a pair of trainers with good grips, you might want to give your ankles and feet some extra protection.
• Sea shoes . While I didn’t use sea shoes on Cuba’s beaches, the country does have sea urchins and some beaches may also be rocky.

You might also want to wear water shoes when you’re clambering over waterfalls and wild swimming (for this, check out my  Guide to the Parque Guanayara Waterfalls , an offbeat waterfall destination in the Topes de Collantes National Park).

Accessories

While Cuba is a relatively safe country to visit, wearing flashy jewellery or accessories can be seen as insensitive. In general, you should try to avoid wearing any designer items of clothing or especially expensive or flashy jewellery and accessories.

• Sunglasses.
• Subtle jewellery.

Getting hold of toiletries in Cuba will be tricky, because, as I mentioned previously, the shops almost exclusively sell water, alcohol, and tinned goods like tomatoes and beans. You should pack everything you need.

If you’re travelling with carry-on luggage only, be sure to pack small-sized bottles under 100 ml and don’t leave any toiletries up to chance. The only form of toiletries I came across in my two weeks in Cuba was a small selection of sanitary products and small shampoo bottles in a shop in Trinidad, which is several hour’s drive from Havana.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Shampoo and conditioner.
• Shower gel and applicator.
• Moisturiser.
• Hair brush or comb.
• Body spray or perfume.
• Razors and shaving cream.
• Suncream.  
• At least one or two packs of  medical face masks . Remember, face masks are required in all public spaces in Cuba. If you’re lucky enough to experience hot weather (which you should be, in Cuba), you’re going to sweat underneath there.
• Hand sanitiser.  Hand sanitiser is not widely available in Cuba.
• Sanitary products , such as tampons, pads or a menstrual cup.
• Make-up , such as foundation, concealer, primer, mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and any other products you use daily.
• Makeup remover.
• Face wipes.

First-aid kit

Over-the-counter medication and painkillers are tricky to get hold of in Cuba, so make sure that you bring your own. There’s no free healthcare for tourists in Cuba, so any medications or treatment you need will come out of your travel insurance policy.

• Waterproof plasters and blister plasters.
• Gauze, wrapped in serile squares.
• Crepe bandages and a small pair of scissors.
• Surgical tape.
• Antiseptic wipes.
• Imodium (loperamide tablets) : These are an essential, in case you catch travellers’ diarrhoea while in transit.
• Antibacterial cream .
• Painkiller s, such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.
• Mosquito relief cream .
• Anti-acids.
• A quick-dry microfibre beach towel .
• A lightweight, quick-dry microfibre towel . Unless you’re absolutely certain that your accommodation provides towels, you should pack a quick-dry towel as a back-up. They’re inexpensive and handy for your future trips.

Other miscellaneous items

• Mosquito repellant.  The best mosquito repellent contains DEET.
• Books.  Just remember to make sure that any books you bring to Cuba should not mention Cuba or the Cuban revolution, unless you want an awkward conversation at customs.
• A water bottle.  If you’d rather not drink out of plastic water bottles, you can transfer bottled water into your personal water bottle. Tap water in Cuba isn’t safe to drink.
• Padlocks  for any lockers.
• Snacks.  If you have diet restrictions, snacks are an essential. The Cuban cuisine largely consists of plain rice, bean stew, and fish, chicken, or pork.
• A map of Cuba.  This is the one thing I wished I had packed when I arrived in Cuba. In order to access any WiFi network in Cuba, you need to track down an Etecsa centre. However, since you don’t have the internet, you must do this the old-school way, using a map. My accommodation didn’t have a map handy, so I spotted a tall, golden roof in the Havana skyline and followed the gold until I found Parque Central and could ask for directions to an Etecsa centre. A map definitely would have been handy. Download an offline map using maps.me and take a printed version of the cheap, foldable  map of Cuba  from National Geographic; it’s a must.
• Tissues.  Any public toilets you visit, or restaurant toilets for that matter, are likely to be lacking one thing: toilet paper.
• A small, travel-sized bottle of laundry detergent.  Bringing a portable bottle with liquid laundry detergent will mean that you can tend to any sweaty clothes in the sink of your accommodation. Some hostels, hotels and homestays also offer laundry services for a fee.
• Card games.
• Ear plugs and an eye mask .
• A travel journal.  

My Travel Journalling Guide explains how to start a travel journal from scratch, including excerpts from own time in Cuba.

Packing list for Cuba resort

If you’re looking for a packing list for a Cuba resort, it’s going to be the same as the above packing list. The only difference is that you might want to bring extra swimwear, since you’ll probably be spending lots of time in the water.

There are also more opportunities to dress up, since you’re less likely to be troubled by catcalls or concerned about safety. Heels are more manageable for dinners, because you won’t have far to walk and the resort terrain should be easy to navigate.

Remember to bring a credit card to your resort, as some hotels may require payments by credit card. If you’re paying for anything in cash, it’s likely that you’ll be asked to pay in euros and not in Cuban pesos. So, bear this in mind if you’re planning on exchanging some cash before you arrive at the resort.

Cuba Packing List: Useful apps

Mobile apps might not be part of your physical luggage, but it’s essential you download any before you depart for Cuba because it’ll be a while until you get internet access. Even then, the internet isn’t strong in Cuba.

• Google Translate: People in Cuba speak Spanish. While many workers in the travel industry can speak English or broken English, sometimes you might need to use Google Translate to cross any language barriers.
• Maps.me or Google Maps: Okay, so technically, you’re not allowed to use GPS in Cuba, but there’s no rule against downloading offline maps of Cuba, which can prevent you from getting lost. Remember to save the location of your accommodation so you don’t forget where it is.
• DuoLingo: Learn a few essential Spanish phrases while you’re in Cuba.
• Currency Converter Plus: If you want to keep track of your spendings, the Currency Converter Plus app works offline and can give you a rough estimation of how much you’re spending in your usual currency.

What to bring to Cuba for the locals

Whether you’re visiting friends or family or you just want to give a little something to your casa host as a sign of appreciation, one of the best ideas is chocolate. Chocolate is a commodity in Cuba. I saw crowds of locals ‘smuggling’ (legally) bags of chocolate into Cuba for their friends or family, so it’s clearly something that’s in demand.

Just remember to keep the chocolate somewhere cool, so it doesn’t melt too quickly. Spanish books are always welcome gifts, as long as they don’t mention Cuba or the Cuban revolution.

If you’re looking to make a difference to the local communities, one idea is to bring second-hand clothes (still in good condition) or hygiene products such as soap or deodorant. If your hosts don’t use it themselves, they can donate it to others in need. Even things like toothpaste, shampoo, mouthwash, bed sheets, or tea towels are seen as luxurious in Cuba.

Great gifts for children in Cuba could include dolls or action figures. Western toys are a rarity in Cuba, so children are sure to treasure any small toys or gifts. As many of the kids play in the street, small balls or even a deflated football with a small pump should also go down a treat.

If you really want to support the Cuban community, consider staying in a casa particulare. This is the Cuban equivalent of a homestay or a bed and breakfast. They are private rooms, part of a normal Cuban household. Most casa particulares include at least one meal, usually breakfast, but many provide breakfast and dinner. Rooms usually have a private or shared bathroom. A large chunk of the booking goes to the government, so the owners rely heavily on regular bookings for their income.

Essential items to bring in your carry-on to Cuba include your complete travel documents (a passport, Cuban tourist card, travel insurance details, your Covid-19 declaration form and copies of your flight, accommodation, and tour booking information). Pack face masks and hand sanitiser, as face masks are required in all public spaces in Cuba, even outdoors.  Other items you might want to pack include books, technology such as a mobile phone, earphones, Kindle or iPod, face wipes, a water bottle, phone charger, ear plugs, an eye mask, and a head pillow.

You can bring snacks to Cuba, as long as they don’t contain any fruit or meat products.

Prescription medication and over-the-counter medication is permitted in Cuba, as long as you pack a copy of the prescription and the box of any over-the-counter medication.

You’re not permitted to bring more than two mobile phones to Cuba. The same rule applies to laptops and cameras.

Katie Treharne

I’m Katie, the owner of Escape Artist Katie. I have been travel writing since 2018, including writing for luxury travel magazines and publications such as Wanderlust.

As well as being a digital nomad who works and lives abroad permanently, I’m a big advocate for  offbeat travel  and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

I hope you found my article useful – find out more  about  me here or keep up with my travels on  Instagram .

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Jeff Peisner

Wednesday 4th of October 2023

I plan on traveling to Cuba from the United States for 3-4 weeks in January 2024. I've done a lot of research online. I want to do some Snorkeling and diving, As well as some swimming. I am also interested In music and dance. Maybe what's going on out on the street rather than going to expensive clubs. Also I don't like to stay out real late. I generally prefer Villages to cities, but I am open to both. I am a retired teacher so I do not have lots of money. I'm hoping to spend Less than an average of $80 a day for everything. I plan on staying in casa particulares . Just looking for clean safe places nothing fancy. I want to connect with the Cuban people as well. I have been having Spanish conversational lessons online for a few years now so I can have conversations in Spanish, especially if people speak slowly enough. I live in the mountains in North Carolina where we have lots of natural beauty and waterfalls. So I might be looking for something a little different than that. I do not like to lay out on the beach. I actually prefer watching waves crashing into rocks than Sandy beaches. I know some mosquitoes are inevitable But I would prefer to minimize biting insects, maybe with a windier beach? I am interested in visiting caves and Swimming in natural pools. I plan on using transportation such as collectivos and viazul. I have made several trips over the years to Latin America including Guatemala Honduras Mexico Nicaragua Chile Ecuador. Usually just 1 country for each trip of 3-7 . Just to say traveling in Latin America is not new to me.

My current plan is to go to Viñales after landing in Havana. Maybe spend a week there including going to Cayo Jutia and possibly maria la gorda ( day trip from Viñales ?) for diving and or snorkeling. Hoping to go to many caves in the Viñales area. Then I was going to playa Giron to snorkel and scuba dive Possibly caleta buena and Punta Perdiz. Then maybe to playa larga, to do some tours in Cienaga la Zapata. Then Trinidad for the music at night and Topes De Collantes during the day. Possibilities include: Lago habanabilla El Nicho waterfalls, Sendero Vegas Leaping Caburní (Salto de Caburní) Parque Guanayara La Batata

That might be it for 3-4 weeks. Based on my criteria of snorkelling diving swimming caves connecting with cubanos, Not spending too much money, and avoiding too many tourists. Does this sound like a good plan? I know I'm missing northern and eastern Cuba. And I don't wanna spend too much time traveling between places. Would you suggest additional or substitute Locations? Are the northern beaches windier and less mosquitoes? Any recommendations of where to see waves crashing into rocks? Any possibility of going to Snorkeling and diving sites with more Coral and animal life without spending too much money? Other ideas of where to see music and dance, again without spending too much money? Do I need to reserve my transportation between cities beforehand with viazul? Or could I go In colectivos? That way would I not need to reserve in advance? Are colectivos usually air conditioned or At least comfortable? Do I need to reserve casa particulares in advance? I like the flexibility of being able to change my plan But I also don't wanna be stuck somewhere because I don't have transportation or a place to sleep. I greatly appreciate your time and advice.

escapeartistkatie

Friday 13th of October 2023

Hey Jeff! You'll have a great trip, I'm sure of it. Your plan sounds great - just remember to leave some flexibility in your itinerary because often transport doesn't run on time (and even on the day you want - Sundays, for example) in Cuba. I haven't visited any of the northern beaches, I'm afraid, so I can't give you advice on that. Trinidad will be a great place to experience dancing/outdoor music - I have details of some spots in my post on things to do in Trinidad. I'd recommend using collectivos rather than the Viazul service because it's more flexible and convenient (for the Viazul, you need to visit the bus office to buy the ticket and must return a second time to take the bus). Collectivos pick you up and drop you from door to door. All of the collectivos I used had air conditioning. Casa particulares usually don't require a reservation - there should be space somewhere if you're not picky. Your best bet is to be 'referred' from casa to casa (a.k.a. ask your current casa host for a recommendation and they can arrange a reservation for you in the next place one or two days in advance). I hope this helps!

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Cuba Packing List: What to pack for Cuba?

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Cuba is such a unique destination that many travelers – whether seasoned or novice wonder about what to pack for Cuba. We traveled to Cuba and had the first-hand experience, so we can definitely share all the must-haves for your trip. In this ultimate Cuba packing list, we have included the basic items to electronics and clothing recommendations (like what to wear in Cuba) for the beach and also for photos.

Always be mindful of the weather before you travel. Cuba is located near the Caribbean Sea, so you can expect a warm climate all year round, with some months more humid than others. But you will never have to carry winter parkas or snow boots, that’s for sure. And that’s why Cuba is slowly becoming popular with North American tourists – both in the USA and Canada.

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

If you only have a few days left for your trip, don’t worry, as many of these items can be purchased online and delivered the next day with Amazon Prime. You can sign up for a free trial of Amazon Prime right here!  

Travel Documents for Cuba 

First things first – let’s start the Cuba packing list with travel documents for your trip. Carry your passport . Make sure it has not expired.

Cuban Tourist Visa

Cuban Tourist Visa can be either applied for in advance depending on your citizenship, or you can get one on arrival. Most airlines will include the cost of the Cuban tourist visa in the flight ticket or vacation package. You will have to fill out the tourist card in-flight and show it to customs and immigration officials on arrival.

Other travel documents

Carry other travel documents like – permanent residency card, photo ID or hotel and tour reservations.

Travel Medical or Health Insurance

Travel Medical Insurance is a MUST. Cuba doesn’t have free health care for people other than Cubans, so please take medical coverage/insurance. Immigration officials might ask for insurance papers at the airport or upon crossing the border.

Although we never found theft or pickpocketing to be an issue in Cuba, it is recommended that you keep your travel documents safe and secure.

Cash or Credit cards

Cash is king in Cuba. Cuba uses 2 types of currencies – CUC and CUP. As a tourist, you will be exchanging money for CUC – Cuban Convertible currency. CUC is only available in Cuba and you can exchange currency at the airport, national banks and (some) hotels. Take USD or CAD and get CUC in return.

Credit cards are very rare and limited to big hotels and resorts in Cuba. ATMs or money machines are also rare.

If you ever run out of cash, you will find a bank or two to take out the money in touristy areas like Havana and Varadero, but in smaller towns, it might be a little difficult to spot one. In our opinion, it is wise to budget well and accordingly bring cash in your own currency to get it exchanged as and when needed (in the hotel you stay in or at the airport).

Need Cuba Travel tips? Get our essential Cuba Travel guide to prepare for your trip here

Comfortable walking shoes for Old Havana Lanes

Old Havana is filled with cobblestoned lanes. As much as it is colorful and fun, wearing comfortable walking shoes is a must to enjoy this UNESCO heritage site to the fullest. I highly recommend trying out my KEEN sandals on the uneven, sometimes dirty lanes of Old Havana. This pair of KEENs come with toe protection, keeping you safe and clean. And they are WASH-ABLE! 

The sole bed is super comfortable for all day long wear, and it also comes in a variety of colors! Because they are sandals you can use them at the resort or by the pool too. 

Clean bed sheet or sleeping bag liners

Hotels and resorts in Cuba do not follow the same luxury or accommodation rating as in most of North America. So if you are booking a mid-range or 3-star hotel in Cuba, you will find that a 3-star in Cuba is definitely not the same as a 3-star in North America.

The bedding in most hotels won’t be very plushy (and sometimes may not look clean, but maybe clean). A lightweight bedsheet (in twin size) is a good option to carry. When in doubt, just throw the bedsheet on and get a good night’s sleep. 

As a seasoned traveler, we carry a sleeping bag liner (although we don’t camp a lot outdoors, we find this hack super useful). Sleeping bag liners are super lightweight, and easy to carry. Traditionally they provide a thin insulated layer inside sleeping bags, for camping. But they are equally effective when hotel bedsheets are a little questionable. 

Kindle Paperwhite

The internet in Cuba is expensive and it is not as fast as the internet we experience in the US or Canada. If you love reading, consider taking an e-reader with you. We LOVE our Kindles. We loved our old bulky Kindle with the chunky keyboard, and now madly in love with the newest one, which is super lightweight and it fits into my small cross body travel bag.

This new Kindle paper-white is also waterproof, so you can get a lot of reading done under the sun while lazing at the resort pool or at the beach. Download all the books, PDFs, magazines, everything you want (it can fit up to 6000 books on the go, without killing any trees or weighing your bag down). I am sure you won’t be without a book or magazine on your entire trip!

Rain jacket or cardigan (all seasons)

Cuba can get chilly in the evenings, so a light jacket is handy. If it’s waterproof it takes out all the guesswork should it decide to shower, without warning.  Weather is Cuba is quite similar to the weather experienced in Florida, so it is recommended that you carry a light rain jacket at all times of the year. 

I always pack a light cardigan with me at all times in my travels, from Cuba to Europe and Mexico to Morocco. It is super handy should temperatures drop (and you are cold) or inside the resort, aircraft or tour vans – with the A/C cranked up. Here are my favorite rain jacket and cardigan

• Click to view lightweight rain jacket
• Click to view prices for a long-lasting and soft cardigan for women

Cosmetic Packing Lists

Unlike most western countries of the world, where you will find shampoos and soaps at the hotel or at a convenience store, it isn’t the case with Cuba. For one, MOST hotels won’t provide you with shower gel, shampoos or body lotion. Even at a store, you will see unfamiliar brands. The “Unilevers” and “Doves” of the world are nonexistent in Cuba. So pack and carry your own

Here is the cosmetics list

• Face wash or facial wipes
• Sunscreen – The sunscreen is the most important as the sun is scorching hot midday at any time of the year
• Light moisturizer
• Body lotion (with SPF sun protection)
• Hand sanitizer – Super handy when you are out and about. Don’t forget to carry a hand sanitizer in your purse.
• Facial Mist – Spray it while on the go to refresh your make up or just cause it’s hot and dry.
• Light Makeup – Eye pencil, lipstick, a light foundation with SPF
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Bug spray – Click here to view plant-based insect/bug repellent
• Mosquito repellent (or mosquito repellant)
• Sanitary pad or tampon

Carry them all in a transparent pouch and travel size containers. Here is what we recommend –

• Click to view prices for travel pouch and
• Click to view prices for travel size containers

Medications for Cuba 

As mentioned, Cuba will not provide free treatments or drugs to tourists. Nor will you find Advil and Tylenol or any medications that you are used to in America, Canada or Europe. So take your medications with you.

Here are some of the medications we recommend bringing

• Personal medications
• OTC painkiller
• Jetlagged medications if traveling outside of North America. Get one here

Electronics and Entertainment

Cuba literally takes you to simpler times, when the internet was not Wi-Fi nor free. And social media not so popular. So with that in mind, we say ditch the laptop and enjoy the weather and the Cuban culture. But if you are planning on working in Cuba and need an internet connection, you will have to prepare yourself and pay for the internet per usage.

So here is your electronics list

• Laptop (if you really have to)
• iPod – for music
• Phone – Mostly to download offline maps and take pictures or notes
• Adaptor – Cuba uses the same wall power outlet like the USA and Canada, so you won’t have to carry an adaptor. If you are traveling from outside of North America, you might need one. Get your travel adaptor here
• Convertor – You might have to carry a convertor with you to Cuba. Most hotels will have 110 volts in the bathroom for shavers and hair dryers. They should also have dual voltage in their rooms. But if you are staying at a casa particular, then consider carrying a voltage convertor. Cuba uses 110 volts mostly, US and Canada use 120 volts, Europe uses 220 volts. Get your converter here 
• Charging cable – Highly recommend purchasing charging cables, with multiple ports, as it is super super handy to charge multiple electronics. I am in LOVE with this one – click to view prices . 
• Power bank portable charger – As power outlets may or may not be readily available, take a power bank portable charger with you, fully charged. Get your power bank here
• Headphones – For in-flight entertainment, music on the go or while on day trips. Get noise-canceling headphones here
• Camera and memory card – Don’t forget your camera. Carry a high capacity memory card so that you don’t run out of space on your SD card. Here is a 128 GB storage card for you 

Also, clear your SD card before you travel so that you have room for TONS of photos.

As mentioned above the internet is expensive in Cuba, you might want to take simpler items for entertainment

• Kindle 
• Travel Notebook – To document your travels and take essential contact numbers
• Magazines travel guides and books – Get magazines, lonely planet travel guides or books to read at the resort or at night time.

Apps for Havana Cuba Travel

As free WiFi or hot spots are not widely available in Cuba, download these handy apps before you travel

• Offline maps – Download maps.me
• Weather App – This may or maybe THAT accurate, nevertheless still useful
• TripIt – Track and plan your Cuba Itinerary. Here is our itinerary to Havana
• Duolingo – Brush up on common Spanish words.

Get photography tips and location from Havana Cuba here

Convenience Items to pack for Cuba

Here are some items that are essential for your trip, from a convenience standpoint

Facial Tissue or Toilet Paper

Depending on how much you are carrying or traveling with – like a backpack or a suitcase, you should consider carrying some toilet paper with you. If you are staying at a budget hotel (less than 4-star hotel), chances are if you run out of toilet paper, it won’t be refilled. So carry some.

We carried 2 rolls of toilet paper and some packs of facial tissue for the two of us for 5 days.

Water Bottle with an inbuilt filter or Collapsible water bottle

This is one of our most recommended travel items for visiting Cuba – a very handy collapsible water bottle. Tap water in Cuba is not safe to drink, so you will have to purchase bottled water.

You can purchase water from a convenience store or at the airport. If you are staying at a luxury hotel, you will be provided with clean drinking water, so you can use these super compact water bottles to fill it up. 

However, if you are not staying in a luxury hotel , we highly recommend carrying a water bottle with a filter for safe and clean drinking water. Relying on bottled water means spending a lot of money on it. 

Sunglasses and Hat

Due to the sun and heat, both sunglasses and a hat will come in handy, to rescue you. Get sunglasses with polarized coatings, like this one from Rayban

It comes in different colors as well and is very light to wear and carry. A sun hat not only looks cool but also helps protect you from the sun. I love my floppy hat and I am sure you will too.

For the very reason – the sun. You can carry an umbrella if you do not wish to wear a hat.

Lightweight sand-free or Microfiber towel

A lightweight sand-free towel is handy both at the resort and at the beach. Fashionable towels are great, but I have realized how dirty the car or my beach bag looks after a fun sand-filled day! Don’t let it happen again – choose a sand-free beach towel, which will get rid of the sand in a quick shake. 

This towel from Amazon is amazing, you can use it at the pool or beach. It is also lightweight and rolls up into a bag – easy peasy to carry!

• Click to view prices for our favorite sand-free towels
• Click here to check prices for sand-free, microfiber, quick-drying towel

Hot Sauce or Ketchup

If you like spicy and aromatic food, you may or may not like all the Cuban dishes. For example, fries won’t be loaded with salt or spices or free ketchup. Roast chicken and rice will be just that roast chicken and rice (very little salt and no spice)

But roopa vieja (or shredded beef with beans) will be spicy and delicious – so it really depends on what you wish to eat and what you get when you reach the restaurant or at your resort.

If you carry small condiments (like salt/pepper or ketchup), it will be handy.

The same thing goes for snacks. You may not find late-night snack bars or gas stations and if you are hungry and didn’t like the food at the restaurants, then you will need snacks (or beef jerky).

Carry on – Backpack or Suitcase

Before we move to clothes and what to wear in Cuba, let’s talk about your carry on or your luggage.

For our trip to Cuba, we both carried our backpacks and that’s what we prefer to travel with. I plan my clothes for the day/s and mix and match what I want to wear (Salil might disagree with this, but I LOVE to plan my outfits for each day :))

Okay, so backpacks. We prefer anti-theft backpacks and we have written a whole post about it, you can take a look at it here

But we found that theft was not an issue in Cuba, so even if you have a regular bag or backpack without anti-theft or RFID properties you should be good.

Anti-theft Backpack

An anti-theft backpack of 25-35 liters is an optimal size if you wish to use the backpack as a carry-on and as a day pack when you are out and about exploring. Here is a backpack we recommend and it also has anti-theft properties. Get yours here

We always prefer and use to carry on when we travel. If you love suitcase as a carry-on, get this one from Swiss Gear – it is 21 inches long, perfect for use in flight (in an overhead compartment).

Packing Cubes

They are decently priced and are sturdy.

Clothes and What to Wear in Cuba

Now the FUN part, your outfit and shoes, and accessories and what to wear in Cuba to look pretty in your photos.

Remember the weather is warm, so focus on light colors and airy/cotton clothes and linen pants or shorts.

How to dress in Cuba?

Cuba is a resort destination and is SO much fun – so leave your formal and dressy clothes at home. Carry pastel color skirts, dresses, blouses, denim shorts, swimwear, and casual shirts.

Because Havana is so colorful and pretty, wear monochrome or light-colored clothes. When you are photographing against a plain backdrop, you can mix it up with floral or bright prints to lighten up the photos. As always use a hat or sunglasses to add that jazz.

We found Havana to be completely SAFE. I could wear off-shoulder or tank tops, shorts at any time of the day, without being stared at.

Clothes/Outfits/Shoes for Havana Cuba and resorts

Here are our essential outfit and shoe list for you

• Flowy dress – Carry your pastel-colored, light and comfortable dresses – casual and fun, but not formal.
• Top and Blouses – Cotton, breathable fabric tops and blouses. Off shoulder, short sleeves are best (don’t forget sunblock lotion.)
• Shirts – Same thing as top and blouses, cotton shirts
• Pants – Linen or cotton trousers
• Skirts or shorts
• Swimwear and cover-up – Pack 2 -3 swimwear if heading to a resort-like Varadero. Don’t forget a cover-up
• Flip flops – Carry flip flops for the beach
• Comfortable walking shoes – Carry FLAT, comfortable, CLOSED toe shoes. Old Havana lanes are dirty and uneven, protect yourself and wear walking shoes (minus laces maybe)
• Socks – Get mini crew socks like these ones

Get our Havana Guide and Tips for sightseeing in the Havana city here

What to pack for Cuba for your hosts – For Cubans, hosts and new friends

If you wish to tip or give a gift to Cubans – your host, guide or new friends, carry simple items like a baseball cap, facial wipes, pocket games (like a magnetic chessboard), unused clothes to give away. They will appreciate it.

What not to take to Cuba?

Here are a few items that we would suggest leaving behind while traveling to Cuba

• Leave expensive jewelry or gold and watches. Wear fashion jewelry that doesn’t cost much.
• Ditch your heels 
• Formal wear – tie, bow, tuxedo
• Expensive handbags (it is going to be hot and humid, so leave your handbags protected in dust bags at home)
• Too much makeup – Don’t compromise on your lotion and body essentials, but you could leave your eye pallets, 24 lip colors at home

Cuba Packing List Printable 

Here is a quick review of the packing list. If you need a printable list, you can get it right here!

• Tourist visa, if required
• Hotel reservations
• Tour bookings

CLOTHING & LAUNDRY

• Tops/Shirts/Blouses
• Bottoms/Pants
• Sweater/Light rain jacket
• Night clothes
• Swimsuit, cover-up
• Shoes/Boots
• Travel-size packets of laundry soap

FIRST AID & HYGIENE 

• Medication, prescription
•   Bandages, tape, gauze, elastic wraps
• Aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen
• Antiseptic cream

ELECTRONICS

• Battery power pack
• Adaptor, if required
• Charging Cables
• e-Reader, tablet, laptop, magazines
• Apps – offline maps, translator

TOILETRIES 

• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Minimal makeup
• Body spray / perfume
• Sunscreen, sunburn lotion or ointment
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Moisturizer
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Facial mist
• Water or water bottle with filter
• Health snack

GIFTS FOR HOST

• Educational toys, books
• Clothes, hygiene products

Cuba is SUCH an amazing destination. It truly takes you to simpler times and we felt so safe in the city of Havana and would recommend this place in a heartbeat.

Happy planning to Cuba!

Additional Packing Tips Resources

• Carry on essentials Packing list here
• Packing List for Mexico here
• Essential Items for Travel here

Pin: Cuba Packing List: What to pack for Cuba?

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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The Ultimate Guide: What to Pack When Travelling to Cuba!

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• 76% of American travelers pack over-the-counter medicines for their Cuban escapade.
• Mandatory non-U.S. medical insurance is often bundled in your airline ticket.
• “Don’t forget to pack your patience! Things in Cuba move at their own pace, and it’s part of the charm.” – Christopher P. Baker

Packing Essentials: From Legalities to Lavatories

Documents first.

• Cuban Tourist Card (Cuba Visa): Mostly bundled with your flight, it can also be acquired from an online provider or the Cuban Embassy.
• Travel health insurance: Starting at 8 USD per week, consider options like Insubuy.
• Sanitary Statement and Customs Declaration: Simplify your trip by completing the needed documentation on D’Viajeros.

Functional Fashion

• Lightweight Clothing: With a warm climate, pack light but remember a jacket for chilly evenings.
• Shoes and Sandals: Trekking down dusty roads? Close-toed shoes are your friend. Also, a pair of walking sandals for exploring and flip-flops for beach relaxation are a must.
• Protective Gear: Don’t forget sunglasses and sunhats. The Cuban sun can be unforgiving.

Staying Healthy in Cuba

• Face masks & Hand sanitizer: Respect the local etiquettes; carry disposable masks and hand sanitizers.
• Over-the-counter medicines: Given the periodic shortages, it’s smart to carry basic meds. After all, 76% of Americans do!
• Filtered Water Bottle: With water quality being an issue, this is a lifesaver.
• Your devices: If you’re planning to Instagram your Cuban escapade, remember your phone, charger, and perhaps a camera for those breathtaking landscapes.
• Adapter: North American plug types work in Cuba. So if you’re traveling from elsewhere, remember the pin adapter.

Local Lovables

• Gifting locals is a kind gesture. From hygiene products to non-perishable food, your thoughtfulness can make someone’s day. But always be cautious about Cuban regulations.

Navigate Like a Native

• Cash Rules: With ATMs being sparse and cards being scarcely accepted, especially from American banks, cash in Cuban Pesos is king.
• Travel Guide: Books like Real Havana by Mario Rizzi can be an authentic guide.
• Language Barriers: A Spanish-English phrasebook can be a lifesaver when in a pinch.

Gifts to Delight the Locals

Before you jet off to Cuba, consider packing some thoughtful presents for the Cubans you’ll inevitably meet on your journey. It’s not uncommon for locals to face challenges procuring some daily essentials. By presenting a well-meaning gift, you not only show your appreciation but also cater to your host’s practical needs. However, always be cautious and ensure you aren’t bringing in items that could land you or the recipients in hot water with Cuban authorities.

Gift Ideas:

• Clothing and Accessories : Including shoes, and flip-flops.
• Hygiene Products : Like toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoos, soaps, and feminine hygiene products.
• Medications : Over-the-counter ones like aspirin, ibuprofen, and band-aids.
• Toys and School Supplies for Kids : Think pencils, coloring books, and toys.
• Tech Gadgets : Old phones, cameras, or USB drives could be game-changers for some.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Cuba:

For a seamless travel experience, we’ve put together a comprehensive checklist for you. Double-check against it and ensure you’re set!

• Cuban Tourist Card & Travel Insurance
• Sanitary Statement & Cash (Primarily in Cuban Pesos)
• Your trusty travel backpack or suitcase
• Essential clothing items: Sunhats, sunglasses, sneakers, walking sandals, microfiber towels, and of course, swimwear.
• Health essentials: Face masks, hand sanitizer, a basic medication kit, and toilet tissues.
• Electronic must-haves: Personal devices like cellphones and cameras, portable chargers, and pin adapters.
• Handy travel guide and a Spanish-English phrasebook.
• Don’t forget your gifts for locals!

Don’t Forget Cuban Rules & Regulations

Stay on the right side of Cuban customs by ensuring you are well-versed in the country’s import regulations. If you’re wondering how to navigate Cuban airports, resources like our detailed Havana Airport walkthrough can be invaluable.

Q: How vital is it to carry cash in Cuba? A: Extremely crucial. Many places don’t accept cards, especially from American banks. Always have Cuban Pesos handy.

Q: Do I need a separate medical insurance for Cuba? A: The Cuban government requires all visitors to have non-U.S. medical insurance, but it’s typically included in the cost of airline tickets.

Q: What kind of footwear is best for Cuba? A: Comfortable walking sandals, close-toed shoes for trekking, and flip-flops for beaches.

Q: Are over-the-counter medicines necessary? A: Yes. There’s a reason 76% of Americans pack them – they’re not always readily available.

Q: Should I gift locals during my visit? A: It’s a lovely gesture. Products like toothpaste or aspirin, which are readily available for us, are luxuries for many in Cuba. However, be cautious about what you gift, keeping in mind Cuban regulations.

Q: Is a visa necessary for Americans traveling to Cuba? A: Yes, Americans need a Cuba Tourist Card, commonly referred to as a Cuba Visa, to enter the country.

Q: Should I be concerned about the quality of tap water in Cuba? A: It’s recommended for tourists to drink bottled or purified water in Cuba. A filtered water bottle can be a lifesaver.

Q: Are U.S. debit or credit cards accepted in Cuba? A: Many places in Cuba do not accept U.S. issued debit or credit cards. It’s always safer to carry cash.

Q: Can I bring gifts for Cubans when I visit? A: Absolutely! Locals appreciate gifts like clothing, school supplies, and hygiene products. Just ensure they are in line with Cuban customs regulations.

Q: Are face masks mandatory in Cuba due to COVID-19? A: As of the latest update, face masks aren’t mandatory, but many locals continue to wear them. It’s advised to respect local customs and norms.

Personal Conclusion by Kevin Erickson

Packing for a trip can sometimes be daunting, especially when the destination is as distinctive and lively as Cuba. However, armed with the right knowledge and mindset, your journey can transition from mere travel to a profound experience. Let the allure capture you, sway to the Cuban beat, and cherish each second. Cheers to the sunshine, salsa, and the enchanting avenues of Havana!

• U.S. Travel Association
• D’Viajeros, the government’s official site
• “Real Havana” by Mario Rizzi
• Insubuy Insurance

This post is also available in: English Deutsch

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One response to “The Ultimate Guide: What to Pack When Travelling to Cuba!”

Kevin, I absolutely loved your perspective on the issue. Your point about the integration of technology in everyday life really struck a chord with me. Have you considered how this might affect the digital divide in poorer regions? I remember when I first introduced my grandfather to a smartphone, the experience was a mixture of frustration and awe. It’s not just about access, but about understanding. Could it increase social inequality? On another note, I think it would be interesting to delve into the psychological impacts of this dependency on technology. Just some food for thought! Keep up the good work, Kevin. Looking forward to your next piece.

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Ultimate Cuba Packing List: What to Bring to Cuba?

Ultimate Cuba Packing List (updated for 2019)

If you want to travel around Cuba you need to pack accordingly as they’re certain things you can’t easily purchase in Cuba. But special preparations required for a Cuban trip shouldn’t put you off – nearly half of last year’s tourists were returning visitors, so people seemed to be very satisfied with Cuba. So was I .

One would think that while the number of U.S. visitors to Cuba has nearly doubled this year, traveling around the county and purchasing western supplies got slightly easier.

Surprisingly, it turned out that Cuba wasn’t fully prepared for the sudden tourism boom as the country was reported to be running out of beer. Anyways, you probably won’t be bringing your own beer to Cuba but you might have to bring other things with you…

What to Pack for Cuba?

I’m not going to tell you to bring an X number of t-shirts and X pairs of underwear you might need because it’s totally up to you. Staying in casas particulares we’ve never experienced an issue with the laundry. I’m going to give you a list of essential things to pack for Cuba and some gadgets that are gonna make your life easier.

But one thing you should invest in regardless of your destination is packing cubes . While I used a simple and cheap version of them from eBags , my friend Bethany wrote a complete guide to  them . They’ll make your life easier when it comes to separation of clean and dirty clothes, or simply saving space.

READ MORE: Things to Know Before Traveling to Cuba

What to wear in cuba.

Before heading to Cuba we read that men shouldn’t wear shorts in Cuba, but upon arrival, we realized that this statement was far from reality.

Everyone in Havana dresses very casually and simple, so you can wear anything starting from baggy pants and finishing on nice dresses. Nobody really cared.

Bikinis, shorts, sandals, sleeveless cotton dresses and shirts are the order of the day. It gets a little chilly in the evenings, so the sweater should be brought as well.

Bring one fancy outfit if you’re planning on going for the Tropicana Show (and you should!) as people tend to dress for the show like they’d be going at least for an afternoon tea with Queen Elizabeth. You could feel out of place in a simple outfit.

IMPORTANT: You might want to bring a few extra t-shirts or other clothes that you don’t mind leaving behind, as many Cubans will ask you to leave them some clothes.

It will most likely make their day, if not week, so keep this in mind when you’re packing for Cuba. If you have some spare toys at home try to bring them too to make the kids happy.

Watch Video:

Here’s what you should put in your suitcase:

You need to be careful when packing for Cuba as you won’t be able to re-buy a lot of things. But first things first: bring cash.

American cards obviously won’t work in Cuba and while my European card worked just fine, ATMs aren’t located at every street corner and almost no one will accept payment by card.

Bring everything you need for your entire stay. While you get get a basic shampoo and lotion in a Cuban store, you can’t really find a hair conditioner, mascaras and other ‘luxurious’ stuff.

If you don’t want to carry liquids around try the dry shampoo . No more exploded shampoo after a long flight, no more hauling heavy liquids, no more plastic bottles I can’t find a place to recycle. I love it.

My favorite organizer: Origami Unicorn

A fully stocked medical kit should be packed as part of your travel luggage.

Contact Lenses

You need to remember to bring a full set of contact lenses and solution for this trip as I’ve never seen any possibility of re-buying them in Cuba.

Insect Repellent

It’s an absolute must. Mosquitos almost ate me alive. Don’t bother with a natural one, just go ahead and get the deet or the eucalyptus one. You’ll thank me later.

It goes without saying. Cuba is in the Caribbean after all.

Flip-flops & Sneakers

Especially if you are visiting Havana, be sure to bring with you close shoes. The city is dusty and dirty in a certain area and will be safer for you.

Wetsuit & Snorkel Gear

Diving and snorkeling in Cuba are great and extremely cheap. Bring your own equipment if you have a set.

READ MORE: Carry-on Packing Guide

Useful travel gadgets for traveling to cuba:.

Lifestraw Water Bottle I heard other tourists complaining that it’s hard to find water. While I’ve never experienced any issues you can bring a Lifestraw water filter, so you don’t need to worry about buying drinks anymore. You might as well drink straight from a puddle.

Torch Light might occasionally go out in Cuba, so bring a torch to be safe.

Microfiber Towel Whether you’re going backpacking or glamping at a luxury hotel you should probably pack a microfiber towel. It won’t take any space, but you might find it useful when you’re going to the beach and don’t want to carry a big hotel towel around.

READ MORE: Best Carry-On Luggage

Suggested books for cuba:.

– The Rough Guide to Cuba – Real Havana: Explore Like a Local

Don’t forget to arrange health insurance before heading to Cuba. Visitors are often stopped at the border and checked if they have valid insurance.

In case you don’t have one, you might be forced to buy a Cuban one. But not all insurances cover Cuba. World Nomads Travel Insurance  covers Cuba since a few months ago, so you might want to get their insurance, as it’s the best out there.

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Shelley Johnston

Monday 10th of February 2020

HI: We been to Cuba many times .when you book you will get a wonderful list in what to bring to your resort .I like to bring pringles (chips) in the tube can-trail mix-licorice-I always bring gum to chew on the plane before take off and wear ear plugs..always bring 3-4 rolls of toilet paper - Kleenex-baby wipes are good-hand sanitizer-gifts for maids-such as band-aids-personal items-I bring Tylenol -rolaids-immodium and pepto-it is good to take one in the morning and at suppertime..with changing your food being in a different country it ensures that you will not get diarrhea-you can bring your own ketchup if you want but theirs is good just sometimes not always readily available.-or simply enjoy what they offer-the food is great!I take bug spray -lip balm to the beach-to ensure possibly the sand fleas stay out of my way.I take eye drops-polysporin as well in my suitcase-first aid small kit-face cloths they do not provide-I take many more things but most all are listed on the travel list the agent provides-enjoy your vacation!!!

Thursday 16th of January 2020

Going to Cuba? No way no how you can go; leave me at home

Thursday 26th of December 2019

I heard so many things about Cuba and they may not all be true. I heard you have to enter as a group with the new law after June 2019. I heard about the cruise that was turned back. Then I heard that is not true. Then some people said not to bring gifts, and bring toilet paper! I am going this week with a group of teachers. I guess I will find out on my own. Thanks for the packing list.

Ann Claydon

Thursday 31st of October 2019

Thanks for your blog and advice Anna, we too are off to Cuba in Dec on a private tour around the island. Looking forward to it.

Susan Brauner

Thursday 29th of August 2019

I wish there were more up to date info. I'm going to Cuba in December 2019. I appreciate the info on gifts. Im an avid traveler and I buy inexpensive clothes to travel in then leave them. Hotel staff may have access to soap etc, but they work hard for little money and can always use nice US clothes. How's the TP situation 2019? Thanks for all the info. I'll be checking back before i leave.

Cuba Travel Guide for U.S. Citizens: What to Know Before You Go (Updated 2023)

Feb 3, 2023 | Caribbean , Destinations | 0 comments

Planning this trip to Cuba was the most challenging thing I’ve done to date in the name of travel. Out of all 26 countries, thousands of miles, from 5 years of traveling the world.

Once we landed in Havana, I knew that this place was unlike any I’d visited before.

Had I allowed the logistical challenge of traveling to Cuba as a US citizen deter me from visiting this country, it would have been my greatest mistake.

This Cuba travel guide for US citizens is up to date as of early 2023, based on my experience traveling to Cuba in December 2022.

In this post, I will cover Cuba travel FAQ and share how to visit Cuba legally as a US citizen or from a US airport.

Before you read, please note that there are sanctions from the U.S. government that restrict travel to Cuba.

It is the responsibility of each visitor to follow all laws and regulations, at home and abroad.

This website has a limitation of liability policy that applies to all posts, which you can read here .

This post contains affiliate links. See more in the disclaimer .

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Yes. And you can even do so independently.

The key is to visit legally, within the confines of OFAC (Office of Foreign Asset Control) regulations due to the embargo and sanctions.

IMPORTANT: These regulations also apply to non-US citizens that are departing from a US airport.

How to Travel to Cuba Legally

There are 12 categories of legal travel to Cuba under OFAC:

• Family visits
• Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
• Journalistic activity
• Professional research and professional meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious activities
• Athletic competitions by amateur or semi-professional athletes or athletic teams
• Support for the Cuban People
• Humanitarian projects
• Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
• Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
• Certain authorized export transactions

Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury

The most common is Support for the Cuban People, which requires the following:

§ 515.574 Support for the Cuban People. (a) General license. The travel-related transactions set forth in § 515.560(c) and other transactions that are intended to provide support for the Cuban people are authorized, provided that: (1) The activities are of: (i) Recognized human rights organizations; (ii) Independent organizations designed to promote a rapid, peaceful transition to democracy; or (iii) Individuals and non-governmental organizations that promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba; and (2) Each traveler engages in a full-time schedule of activities that: (i) Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities; and (ii) Result in meaningful interaction with individuals in Cuba. (3) The traveler’s schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule. Source: Code of Federal Regulations

It will not be a vacation where you go to the beach and prop your feet up, buy things wherever you want, and stay wherever you want.

You must have a full-time schedule of activities that result in meaningful engagement with Cubans.

For us, that looked like many, many art tours and private gallery visits where we connected with local artists and had countless meaningful, deep conversations.

No topic was off-limits.

Everyone opened up (including us) and shared our passions, life experiences, opinions, and learned about one another. And yes, we talked about politics.

We were on the go, all day, every day.

And we didn’t really spend time with other foreigners. We crossed paths with foreigners a couple times, but everyone else we spoke to and spent time with was Cuban.

Casas particulares and paladares

Aside from your full-time schedule, you should also stay in casas particulares and eat at paladares.

A casa particular is a room in someone’s house. It’s been a normal way to travel in Cuba for years. There’s an infrastructure around it. You can find them on Airbnb.

We highly recommend this casa particular in Havana and this casa particular in Viñales.

Paladares are privately-owned small restaurants. Download A La Mesa for a list of restaurants all over the country. Each listing shows if it’s privately-owned.

The app also works offline, which will make your life much easier in Cuba.

Pro tip: If you’re also a vegetarian, make sure you try Camino al Sol ! It’s an all-vegetarian paladar in Havana.

What you are banned from doing in Cuba

You cannot spend money in OR interact with any of the places on this list from the US Treasury Department.

Many are hotels, so pay attention!

I copied and pasted these into a list to have on my phone, then accessed it offline while in Cuba to ensure there wouldn’t be any issues.

Is Cuba safe to visit?

Absolutely.

As a young woman who visited 25 countries before going to Cuba, I’ve been in a few…sticky situations. Cuba was amazing.

I never worried about being robbed and just felt at ease the entire time I was there. I tend to be a more anxious person, so that’s new for me.

This is my personal experience and I was not in Cuba as a solo female traveler, so yours could be different.

Is Cuba open for travel right now?

As of late 2022, visitors no longer need to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination or testing before entering Cuba. We brought our vaccine cards just in case, but no one asked to see them.

Please refer to this government site for updated information before your visit.

On our way back to the United States, we did have to share contact tracing information with our airlines using a form before we could check in. It was quick and easy.

Although many online sources claim masks are mandatory in certain settings, we did not see any places where masks were required in December 2022.

Accessing Money in Cuba: 2023 Updates

Everything you need to spend in Cuba must be in cash.

Because of the sanctions, your credit and debit cards will not work in Cuba.

If you try to use them, your bank will probably lock your account and it will take a lot of effort to get it unlocked.

In prior years, you would need to convert money to Cuban pesos before using it. Euros were the best to have because CADECA (the government exchange houses) charged a higher fee on USD exchanges.

As of late 2022, everywhere we went accepted U.S. dollars as payment. This was highly unexpected and deviated from every piece of advice I read online before leaving for Cuba.

However, it is still good to have some pesos for a fairer exchange rate. Some menu exchange rates were awful.

When we were in Cuba, we typically got 150 CUP for 1 USD. The CADECA rate was 110.40 CUP for 1 USD.

We exchanged money at our first casa particular and spent USD on activities, private taxis, and one of our casas. We usually spent pesos on art, food, and coffee.

Make sure you get cash in plenty of small bills. Twenties, tens, fives, and ones were useful. Anything larger than that will be annoying to deal with.

If your bank will only give you large bills, go to Publix and ask the customer service to break them when they’re not busy. Works like a charm!

Is it safe to exchange money on the street in Cuba?

You will be offered money exchange on the street wherever you go in Cuba. Just say “No, gracias,” and move on.

As a general rule of thumb, it is not safe or advised to exchange money on the street. This goes for wherever you are in the world.

The main reason it’s unwise to do this is forged currency. If it came from some random person, it may be counterfeit.

A local friend taught us how to know your Cuban pesos are real. Hold the bill up to the sun, and check the watermark.

The watermark will have a number on it, and that number must match the value of the bill.

If it’s a 100-peso bill, the number in the watermark should say 100.

Again, I do not recommend exchanging money in the street. We didn’t on this trip because we were able to get pesos from the front desk of our casa particular.

If you’re ever concerned about any bills you were given as change, use the tip from our friend for some peace of mind.

I also want to make it clear that we were never given counterfeit bills as change while in Cuba, but these things can happen anywhere.

You’re more vulnerable as a foreigner, because you don’t know exactly how the money is supposed to look.

Getting WiFi in Cuba

If a travel guide says there are only one-hour WiFi cards, it is outdated.

Now, you can access WiFi on a one-hour or a five-hour card.

WiFi is now cheaper in Cuba—it was $5 USD per hour; now, it’s $1 USD per hour.

We only needed one 5-hour card per person for the whole week.

Instead of waiting in the ETECSA line, we bought them from our first casa particular .

Overall, our Cuba WiFi experience was much easier than what we expected.

Don’t expect to be online all the time, but WiFi access is not as difficult as prior years.

Pro tip: The two main apps I highly recommend to download BEFORE you leave for Cuba are A La Mesa and Maps.me . Both work well offline and will save you such a headache.

On Maps.me specifically, also download the maps of each city/town you will visit in Cuba. In our case, I downloaded the maps for Havana and Viñales. When you have Internet access, put your casa particular addresses in a Note on your phone, so you copy and paste them into Maps.me whenever you need to. Same goes for any attractions you know you want to see.

If you want (and if your phone is unlocked), you could get a Cuba sim card, which comes with data. I don’t see the point for a one-week trip, but to each their own.

You can reserve those online in advance from Suena and pick them up at the José Martí airport (in Havana). If you go this route, you want the Tourist SIM Card from the top menu.

Can you drink the water in Cuba?

In short, no.

There was bottled water for sale everywhere on our trip in December 2022, but I read online before leaving that you can’t bank on that.

Instead, I bought this LifeStraw to have filtered water and it was the best travel purchase I’ve made. Ever.

Our Viñales casa particular hostess took one look at that bottle and pointed me to her giant drinking water spigot for us to have freely.

She was already familiar with the water situation for foreigners and told me it was smart to bring a reusable filtered bottle.

Highly recommend one of these !

Can you check in online for flights to Cuba?

There are too many documents the airlines must verify before they can issue a boarding pass.

You will also need a paper boarding pass for your Cuban health insurance, often included in your departure airfare.

Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Cuba?

Out of all Spanish-speaking countries I’ve visited, Cuba is the main one you need at least some language skills to visit.

There are people who speak English, especially young people, but it is not the norm.

If you don’t speak Spanish and you’re not traveling with a friend who does, download Google Translate for offline use before you arrive.

It won’t be ideal, but it will work when you need language help.

The best advice I can give is to travel with someone who speaks Spanish fluently. My best friend said many times while we were in Cuba that she would be toast without my language skills.

Can I bring Cuban cigars and rum back into the USA as souvenirs?

The answer used to be yes, as long as you purchased them from a private shop instead of a stated-owned one.

That answer is no longer the case, as of late 2022.

Now, you cannot bring any rum or cigars into the USA from Cuba, no matter how small the amount is or where they were purchased within Cuba.

When you arrive back into the USA, Customs and Border Patrol will ask if you have any rum or cigars. If you do, assume they will be confiscated.

What to Pack for Your Cuba Trip

I pack carry-on only and found Cuba to be one of the easier countries to pack for. The climate in December was perfect, with 80s in the day and 60s-70s at night.

Here is a short packing list of the things you need before going to Cuba:

• Mosquito repellent, because the insects in Cuba will eat you alive (I use these .)
• Comfortable shoes for lots of walking
• Cardigan or light sweatshirt
• Flowy/comfortable clothes (You can see one of the outfits I packed below.)
• One active wear outfit for hiking/horseback or bike riding (if you’re going to Viñales)

I hope this Cuba travel FAQ was helpful for you. I know how stressful it can be to figure out what to do when planning. If you have any questions, comment below and I’ll do what I can to help!

Read more Cuba travel guides:

• Cuba Pre-Departure Checklist
• What to See and Do in Cuba (Havana and Viñales)
• At Dusk in Havana, I Fell in Love
• Havana, the Art Sanctuary
• When It Destroys, It Starts with Us
• The Elephant in the Room: Socialism in Cuba

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Hi, I'm Sarah

Welcome to my oasis! I am a writer and budding entrepreneur with a love for caffeine, capital gains, and seeing the world. If I'm not writing, you can find me reading a good book, trying out a new vegan recipe, or adding to my coffee mug collection. My goal in life? To see every country in the world. Come along for the ride!

What To Pack For Cuba: The Ultimate List

By Discover Corps

In August 2016, Cuba became an accessible vacation destination for Americans when the first direct, commercial routes were opened between the two countries since the early 1960s.

Many Americans are thrilled by the opportunity to finally visit  Cuba   and meet the people who call it home. From mountains and beaches to the vibrant cities and towns in between, there are countless  places to visit in Cuba  that will light up your senses with their colors, culture and vibrant spirit.

But it’s important to remember that Cuba has been under an embargo for over 50 years. That means the goods they have available are very limited. Despite its improved relations with the US, you will not find wide availability of foreign products in Cuba.

So if you’re excitedly preparing to vacation through this previously closed door, it’s important to know what to bring with you. Here is our ultimate guide on what to pack for Cuba, with everything you need for an enjoyable vacation in the country .

Toiletries and Sanitary Products

You can’t drop into a grocery store or pharmacy for toiletries and sanitary items in Cuba , as you can in many other countries.

The toiletries you do find might be unfamiliar or confusing to identify. So it makes sense to pack your own instead. Bring several bottles of travel-sized options if you’re trying to avoid a checked bag.

Sanitary products are also important for women to bring along. You won’t find Tampax or other familiar feminine products in Cuba.

You should always pack any particular medications you might need when you travel, especially prescription medicines. But when you travel to Cuba , it’s important to come prepared to treat unexpected ailments as well.

The water is not safe to drink in Cuba. Should you accidentally drink it, or eat something that’s been rinsed or not cooked enough, you’ll likely need something for your stomach. New, unfamiliar foods also have the potential to make us feel crummy — even if they’re prepared properly. You should pack Immodium or something similar that contains Loperamide.

Ibuprofen, aspirin, diarrhea solutions, and throat lozenges can all be difficult to find in Cuba. Bring these along, just in case.

Sarong (or Towel)

It’s common for Cuba visitors to stay in a “casa particular,” which is like a bed & breakfast or private homestay. Casa particulares don’t always offer all the amenities of a hotel, like bath and beach towels.

Towels are bulky, and you probably don’t want to sacrifice valuable luggage space by packing them. Since you’ll likely need one for both the bath and the beach, it makes sense to bring a sarong or a quick-dry travel towel instead.

Sarongs are incredibly versatile and handy. They can act as a cover-up, a towel, a blanket on cold flights, or even a bag to wrap things up in. Their thin material allows them to dry quickly, even in the high humidity of Cuba.

A compact travel towel is another option. But you’ll want a quick-dry material so you can use it throughout the day.

Euros or British Pounds

ATM machines are few and far between in Cuba, so you’ll want to have sufficient cash on hand when you arrive.

You cannot get Cuban currency in the U.S. before you leave. So you’ll need to switch your money over to CUC’s (the currency used by tourists in Cuba) when you arrive in Havana.

Euros and British Pounds have a much better exchange rate in Cuba than the American dollar, so you might want to exchange money before arriving in Cuba. Be prepared to wait in a long line for the currency exchange upon arrival.

Heat/Sun Protection

The average daily temperature in Cuba in the summertime is 88º Fahrenheit (or 31º Celsius). In the winter, it only gets down to about 77º Fahrenheit (or 25º Celsius). That’s hot! The subtropic climate is undeniably intense, but Cuba also has a nice cool breeze, thanks to the surrounding ocean.

You’ll need to prepare for heat and a strong sun no matter what time of year you visit Cuba . A hat, sunscreen, umbrella, and light-colored, quick-dry clothing will all help protect you from the elements.

Should you fall victim to the sun’s harsh rays, you’ll also be grateful to have packed aloe vera or other after-sun lotion. A hand-held fan can also provide necessary relief on especially hot days.

Mosquito Spray

You don’t want these pesky (and potentially dangerous) bugs cramping your style in Cuba.

The Zika virus is currently present in Cuba, so make sure to take extra precaution.

Bring 100% Deet mosquito spray to keep the bugs at away.

The streets of Cuba’s bustling cities are often crowded and packed with activity, even in the early morning hours.

While we highly recommend getting out and about to experience the rush of everyone starting their day, you may also want to enjoy some peace and quiet.

If you’re sensitive to sound or don’t wish to be woken up early, ear plugs are very helpful.

Luggage Locks

Having a strong lock on your luggage is important especially if you’re staying in a casa particular as opposed to a hotel, because many do not offer lock boxes.

Most accommodations in Cuba should be safe and secure. But it will give you peace of mind and an added level of security to lock up your luggage, even when it’s in your room.

Hand Sanitizer & Antibacterial Soap

We never know what kind of germs we’ll be encountering on the road.

Keep these convenient products in a ziplock bag that you can easily transfer from your luggage to your day bag.

That way if you run into any less-than-sanitary conditions in Cuba, you’ll be prepared.

A Soft Bag for Souvenirs

It’s inevitable that you’ll leave Cuba with more than you brought.

Americans are no longer limited in the amount of cigars or rum they can purchase . Coffee and sugar are other popular products to bring home. Educational and cultural materials also make for great souvenirs. Consider buying some books or music to bring back and share with loved ones.

You won’t want to overstuff your suitcase when hauling these goods home. So bring a bag that folds down small for the trip there, and can then expand to carry your Cuban souvenirs back home.

Your memories will ultimately be formed by what you take back with you– perhaps a newfound love for salsa music, or the knowledge of how to craft a perfect mojito.

But knowing what to pack for Cuba will help get you off to a good start on your long-awaited dream vacation to this Caribbean cultural paradise.  – Britany Robinson

BIO:  Britany  Robinson is a freelance travel and culture writer based in Portland, Oregon. Her works appears in BBC Travel, Mashable, Green Global Travel, The Daily Dot and more. Her blog,  Travel Write Away , shares advice and musings on travel writing. When she’s not planning her next big trip, she’s scoping out Portland craft beers and local hikes. 

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The 2024 total solar eclipse is 1 week away. Here's what you need to know.

We're ready, are you? The countdown to the total solar eclipse has begun!

Last minute preparations

Eclipse weather.

There's only one week left until the total solar eclipse 2024 is visible across North America! Are you ready? 

Memories will be made when the moon crosses in front of the sun and turns the daytime sky dark. The total solar eclipse will travel through Mexico, 15 U.S. States and Canada and will be one of the most-watched eclipses ever. You can view the entire path of totality including start and end times for different stages of the solar ellipse at each location in this helpful interactive map from NASA . 

If you cannot watch the eclipse in person you can watch the total solar eclipse live here on Space.com courtesy of NASA. Coverage will begin at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT) . You can also keep up with all the actions with our total solar eclipse 2024 live updates blog.

And if you capture a great photo of the solar eclipse and would like to share it with us and our readers, please email it to [email protected] .  

Related: Solar eclipse viewing through history: A roundup of some of the best photos  

Our how to read and understand a solar eclipse map will help you get the most out of your eclipse viewing venture!

By now you've most likely decided on a viewing location and have all the supplies needed for a successful eclipse viewing experience (don't forget those eclipse glasses !). 

But if you're still scrambling for some solar-safe viewing equipment and haven't been able to get hold of a pair of eclipse glasses don't worry, we've got some alternative ways to view the eclipse with items from around the home . 

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

If you're looking for a way to entertain the little ones before, during and after the eclipse we've got a great guide on how to organize an eclipse event for kids . 

As we get closer to April 8, more reliable meteorological weather forecasts will become available. NOAA's Weather Prediction Center is a great place to find increasingly reliable forecasts, which can help you decide on a viewing location where the probability of cloud cover is low. While we are all wishing for clear skies, we can't help but wonder how clouds could impact the viewing experience. It turns out a cloudy forecast might not be as bad as you would initially think, as it all depends on the type, thickness and extent of the cloud cover. You can read more about what happens if it's cloudy during the eclipse and how to give yourself the best chance of clear skies in our helpful guides 

With so many people flocking to watch the eclipse safety is the top priority. Here we've compiled a couple of guides on How to stay safe during the eclipse and also how to avoid getting stuck in traffic on the big day.

Everyone observing the partial phases of this eclipse — and for those outside the path of totality, that's the entire event — will need to wear solar eclipse glasses while cameras, telescopes and binoculars will need solar filters placed in front of their lenses. 

Only those in the path of totality will be able to remove them briefly to see the sun's corona with their naked eyes. Those not in the path of totality must keep them on the entire time. Our how to observe the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar observations.

Solar eclipse glasses are crucial for most to safely observe the eclipse, but with such high demand for the vital piece of kit, fake eclipse glasses are rife. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is warning people about the risks of counterfeit and knock-off solar glasses so we have come up with a guide to how to check yours are safe . 

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

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Cuba to cease paper Cuban Tourist Card 2025 - Cuba Forum

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Cuba to cease paper Cuban Tourist Card 2025

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https://www.directoriocubano.info/actualidad/adios-papeleo-cuba-te-espera-con-visas-electronicas-desde-esta-fecha/

This week, local Mexican media, such as Channel 10 , stated that they will say goodbye to green and pink visas, because starting in 2025, Cuba will implement an electronic visa system, replacing the traditional green and pink visas that will no longer be valid. at the end of 2024.

In 2023, Cuba received 3.2 million travelers, which represents a significant increase compared to previous years. The main tourist-emitting countries were Canada, Russia, the United States, Spain, Germany and Mexico . The island is in a hurry to recover tourism, as it is one of its main sources of foreign currency.

The implementation of electronic visas will facilitate the process of applying for and obtaining visas for travelers who wish to visit Cuba. This measure is expected to speed up the flow of visitors and contribute to the growth of the tourism sector on the island.

It is expected that in the coming months more details will be provided about the process of applying for and obtaining Cuban electronic visas.

17 replies to this topic

Thanks for the info.

( first paragraph)

.......*if everything goes as planned. *....🤣🤣🤣

Transat sells the tc for 16$cnd on its flights . That can give us an idea.

There are costs involved to print, package and distribute the tc to its vendors/embassies. Those costs will not exists anymore.

Now, it's possible that they decide to add a fee to the airlines /operator costs. But I personally don't think they will lose a lot of money by doing a e-card rather then a paper card.

If would be interesting to see the actual numbers though.

That is correct what you say but my point was that people flying from the US will benefit the most unless what Beardo suggests might happen.

Thanks for the clarification Bellagio. I agree with you.

The computer system will cost money to operate and maintain too and given they can charge current prices what market force would cause them to reduce the cost to the consumer? No, I see them continuing to charge what they already know they can get away with and profiting from a slightly lower overhead.

It seems that most other countries have to buy theirs through a third party company, so buying direct from Cuba might see a reduction of cost for them maybe ? ( and yes I know the Canadian airlines are technically a third party )

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From Nasty Insults to an Embassy Raid: Latin American Relations Get Personal

Ecuador’s raid of Mexico’s embassy shows how foreign policy is often driven by personal politics, not national interest.

By Julie Turkewitz ,  Natalie Kitroeff and Genevieve Glatsky

Julie Turkewitz and Genevieve Glatsky reported from Bogotá, Colombia, and Natalie Kitroeff from Mexico City.

Ecuador was once famous for sheltering a man on the lam: For seven years it allowed the WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to hole up in its embassy in London, invoking an international treaty that makes diplomatic premises places of refuge.

Then, last week, the South American nation appeared to tear that treaty to shreds, sending the police into the Mexican Embassy in Quito — over Mexico’s protests — where they arrested a former vice president accused of corruption.

President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador defended the decision to detain the former vice president, Jorge Glas, calling him a criminal and citing the country’s growing security crisis to justify the move.

But his critics said it was one of the most egregious violations of the treaty since its creation in 1961. They saw a more personal motive: Mr. Noboa’s political agenda.

Ecuador has been engulfed in record levels of violence, and Mr. Noboa, a young center-right leader, is eager to look tough on crime. He is just days away from a national referendum that, if approved, would give him sweeping new powers to tackle insecurity — and potentially help him be re-elected next year.

Mr. Noboa characterized the embassy raid and arrest of Mr. Glas as a way to show Ecuador that he was working hard to go after those accused of crime.

But, several analysts say, his government’s decision to forcibly enter the embassy is among the most flagrant examples of a dynamic that has become all too familiar around the world, with Latin America being no exception: foreign policy driven less by lofty principles or national interest and more by the personal aims of leaders hoping to preserve their own political future.

“Foreign policy has never been pure; it’s often been motivated by domestic or individual political interests,” said Dan Restrepo, who served as President Barack Obama’s top adviser on Latin America. “But in the Americas there certainly has been an intensification of the personal in recent years.”

Across the region, the diplomatic rhetoric has deteriorated, with presidents lashing out at one another with a barrage of insults that may appear petty on the world stage but have the potential to play well at home, particularly with their ideological bases.

President Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s left-wing leader, has clashed since last year with El Salvador’s right-wing president, Nayib Bukele. Mr. Petro accused Mr. Bukele of running prisons as “concentration camps,” and Mr. Bukele spotlighted corruption allegations against Mr. Petro’s son.

“Everything ok at home?” Mr. Bukele wrote tauntingly on the platform X.

Argentina’s right-wing president, Javier Milei, has sparred with Mr. Petro, whom he recently called a “murderous terrorist,” leading Mr. Petro to expel Argentine diplomats. (He later reinstated them.)

Mr. Milei has also tussled with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of Mexico, calling him an “ignoramus” and once referring to his supporters as members of the “small-penis club.” Mr. López Obrador in turn has labeled Mr. Milei an “ultraconservative fascist.”

The dispute between Mexico and Ecuador first emerged in December, when the Mexican Embassy in Ecuador allowed Mr. Glas to stay there after being welcomed “as a guest,’’ Mexico’s Foreign Ministry said.

Mr. López Obrador then incurred Ecuador’s wrath when he publicly questioned the legitimacy of its presidential election, leading Mr. Noboa’s government to expel the Mexican ambassador. It was the third time a Latin American country had expelled a Mexican ambassador since Mr. López Obrador took office in 2018.

The spat continued to escalate, until finally the police raided the embassy and arrested Mr. Glas last week.

At his daily news conference on Tuesday, Mr. López Obrador called the embassy arrest in Ecuador “a violation not just of the sovereignty of our country, but of international law.” (Ecuador’s action has been broadly condemned, including by the United States, the Organization of American States and countries across Latin America.)

Mexico has a long history of offering dissidents refuge. But the government did not offer much clarity on why it eventually granted Mr. Glas asylum, prompting critics to question whether Mexico’s president, a longtime standard-bearer of the country’s left, was simply trying to protect an ideological ally. Mr. Glas served in a leftist administration.

“What is the national interest being served here in terms of Ecuador’s or Mexico’s position in the world? That’s a question no one has an answer for, because there is none,” said Carlos Bravo Regidor, a political analyst based in Mexico City. “There’s the personal or ideological reasons of the leaders, and that’s it.”

Ecuador’s arrest of Mr. Glas seemed a stark departure from its own willingness to harbor Mr. Assange in its embassy in London for so long.

Mr. Assange is accused of violating the U.S. Espionage Act with WikiLeaks’ publication of classified military and diplomatic documents.

He was allowed into Ecuador’s Embassy by its president at the time, Rafael Correa, a leftist who had an antagonistic relationship with the United States.

But then President Lenin Moreno took office in Ecuador, and he sought to distance himself from Mr. Correa and build warmer relations with the United States. It was Mr. Moreno’s government that permitted Mr. Assange’s eventual arrest.

The WikiLeaks founder remains in British custody and is fighting extradition to the United States.

Mr. Glas served as vice president under Mr. Correa, who in 2020 was convicted on corruption charges and has escaped prison by living abroad. Mr. López Obrador recently praised Mr. Correa for his “very good government.”

(After Mr. Glas’s transfer to a detention center, the authorities in Ecuador said on Monday that they found him in a coma. On Tuesday, the prison authority announced that his condition had improved and he was returned to jail.)

Mr. López Obrador has generally prioritized domestic politics, traveling abroad infrequently and focusing instead on big infrastructure projects and social programs at home.

Much of Mr. López Obrador’s outward attention has been consumed by his relationship with the United States, in which he has gained significant leverage because of his role in managing the migration crisis .

Yet Mr. López Obrador has also been a vocal defender of governments associated with the left across the region. In 2022, he snubbed the Biden administration by refusing to attend a summit hosted by the United States because it excluded Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

In a dramatic episode, Mr. López Obrador’s government sent a military plane to bring the former Bolivian president Evo Morales to Mexico City in 2019.

Mexico also gave refuge to allies of Mr. Morales in its diplomatic premises in Bolivia’s capital — prompting the country to expel Mexico’s ambassador.

Then in late 2022, Mexico granted asylum to the family of Peru’s ousted leftist president, Pedro Castillo, who was in jail after an attempt to dissolve congress. Peru responded by kicking out the Mexican ambassador .

Mr. López Obrador later insisted that Mr. Castillo was Peru’s “legal and legitimate president” and accused the country’s government of “racism” for jailing Mr. Castillo.

The provocative comments, experts said, were part of a pattern. While Mr. López Obrador has said the pillar of his foreign policy is not interfering in other countries’ domestic affairs — and expecting others to treat Mexico the same — he has been unafraid to voice his own views of some of his neighbors’ internal politics.

“It’s surprising that a president who says the principle of nonintervention guides Mexico’s foreign policy opines on the internal political affairs of these two countries without justification,” said Natalia Saltalamacchia, the head of international studies at the Technological Autonomous Institute of Mexico, referring to Peru and Ecuador.

The diplomatic spats have the potential to have real-world effects at a moment when tackling some of the region’s biggest issues — migration, climate change and transnational crime — requires regional cooperation.

In Ecuador, the police say that Mexico’s most powerful cartels, Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation, are financing a ballooning narco-trafficking industry that has fueled violence and death.

If Mr. Noboa’s government “really wanted to confront organized crime,” said Agustín Burbano de Lara, an Ecuadorean political analyst, “what we should have is a closer collaboration with Mexico, not this diplomatic impasse with Mexico.”

Julie Turkewitz is the Andes Bureau Chief for The Times, based in Bogotá, Colombia, covering Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. More about Julie Turkewitz

Natalie Kitroeff is the Mexico City bureau chief for The Times, leading coverage of Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. More about Natalie Kitroeff