This past fall, we spent a week in the gorgeous Ochos Rios, Jamaica. Our trip’s main purpose was to attend my brother’s wedding; however, we also got to spend lots of time relaxing at the resort and exploring the area.
This trip was our first time ever staying at an all-inclusive resort. My kids are definitely hooked on the seemingly unlimited chocolate truffles and “pink juice” from the pool bar.
Prior to our trip, I searched the internet for ideas of what sort of “must-have” items I need to pack, both for items that would be unique for an all-inclusive, and items unique for a trip to Jamaica. There are definitely some items that I brought and never used, and other instructions I wished I had followed.
One of the big activities to do in Ochos Rios is to climb waterfalls (Dunn’s River being the main waterfall, other smaller ones also are available). For this activity, water shoes or closed-toe sandals are required. The shoes are available for sale, but if you already have some make sure to pack them!
I was glad to have my waterproof pouch for our climb of Kokono falls as I was able to have my phone inside it for photos along the way, and at the top of the falls. I actually brought two pouches on this trip – one for my phone, and another that held cash for tips and other papers I didn’t want to get wet.
My kids spent multiple days just playing in the pool and/or ocean so water toys were a must! We brought a few water squirters and diving rings which got hours of play. Before our trip, I picked up some mesh bags for their toys which worked well. I also tossed their goggles and sandals into the bag so I didn’t have to dig through my own beach bag for them. Etsy has lots of these personalized “seashell bags” available!
I saw some folks with small floaties in the pool and ocean. I wish I had packed a couple small inflatable rings for the kids since I think they would have enjoyed them, but it wasn’t a “must have” item.
Depending on the age of your kids, a waterproof camera could be a fun addition to the beach bag. My kids had fun taking photos around the resort and during our glass bottom boat tour; and it was nice to know I didn’t have to worry about it falling in the pool or getting splashed by the waves.
Something we learned from our trip to the Bahamas is to pack at least 3 swimsuits per person – one that is dry, one that is drying, and one to wear (or is currently wet). It could easily take more than 24 hours to dry the swimsuit, so this is one thing to overpack.
The Longchamp Le Pilage Large tote was a perfect size for carrying kid stuff around the resort for meals or visiting with friends and family. I could put some activities for the kids along with my phone and a small wallet with cash for tips. While we spent a lot of time at the beach and pool, we did bring the kid’s tablets for downtime or when they needed a break.
Speaking of tips, I wish I had brought just a bit more cash with me. Make sure to check out reviews or reddit threads about your specific resort because tipping can vary among the hotel brands. Also, many businesses and taxis are cash only. We were in a very touristy area so all the locations we visited accepted US currency.
Prior to our trip, I had read the suggestion to pack an insulated tumbler for getting drinks throughout the resort. I did pack some tumblers for us, as I didn’t want to waste small single-use plastic cups throughout the week. I was pleasantly surprised that all the bars had nice reusable glass/plastic glasses so we didn’t use the tumblers.
There was plenty of food available throughout the resort for meals, and even 24/7 room service and coffee/ice cream bar. I was glad that I packed snacks for the kids (mostly cliff kids bars and yogurt pouches) because finding snacky type food other than ice cream or chocolate truffles was difficult.
A few miscellaneous items you might want to consider packing for an all-inclusive vacation to Jamaica with kids:
- Extra sunglasses and/or floating glasses cords
- UV protective clothing (my kids swam in rash guards a majority of the time)
- More sunscreen than you think you’ll need
- Life Jacket – our resort had them available if you were participating in the water activities, but not simply at the pool or beach
My kids are constantly asking to go back to Jamaica for vacation (or as my Peppa Pig obsessed 3 year old says “on holiday”). We look forward to what adventures we can do over the next few years!
