In “Pack With Me,” influencers and editors give us a rundown of their travel must haves and a few travel hacks to go along with them. For this installment, PS Shopping editor Kyley Warren shares what essentials are necessary for a getaway to St. Barts in the Caribbean.
Last summer might’ve seen an uptick in European travel, but this summer, most people seem to have their sights set on a much different vacation destination: the Caribbean. While my travel preferences typically lean more toward cobblestone cities than beach getaways, even I’ve been itching to book an island escape after seeing so many tropical videos splashed across my TikTok feed.
I was recently afforded the opportunity to travel to St. Barts, which is regarded as one of the most luxurious islands in the Caribbean – known for its decadent food offerings, vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, and, of course, wide assortment of shopping boutiques. Leonardo DiCaprio is a frequent visitor, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez have enjoyed New Year’s Eve celebrations on the island, and the destination has even become a hotspot for royals like Pippa Middleton.
Whether you’re looking for tips on the best St. Barts restaurant, are wondering what type of luggage is best for navigating the St. Barts airport – because booking your flights was enough of a hassle – or simply want some extra advice on the best St. Barts clothing to pack regardless of what your trip will entail, I’ve curated a Caribbean packing list that’ll ensure your next tropical getaway lives up to the hype. For expert recommendations on the top St. Barts hotels and tourist spots, keep reading for my full breakdown.
@kyley_warren Leaving St. Barths with a newfound love (read: obsession) for corn tempura and coconut sorbet. 🥥🗺️ #traveltiktok #caribbean #stbarths #islandlife #summervibes #presstrip #lecarlgustaf
What to Pack For St. Barts
Ideally, your trip to St. Barts will involve lots of time spent lounging by the ocean and walking any one of the island’s (many) picturesque beaches – you’re in the Caribbean, after all. When it comes to packing, there are the usual suspects: a comfortable swimsuit (or two!), sunscreen, a travel adapter, and a pair of cute sunglasses. But there are also a few lesser-known items you’ll want to make sure are included on your packing list.
St. Barts has a very dramatic landscape with lots of hills and valleys that require some serious trekking – whether you’re walking into town or venturing out to the beach. You’ll want a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sandals that you can slip into for whatever activity you might have planned.
Mosquitoes are to be expected given the island’s humid climate and proximity to water – so be sure to pack a bug spray that’ll repel them and help keep you comfortable while lounging on the beach. And whether you’re prone to motion sickness or simply aren’t acclimated to the Caribbean’s choppy waters, Dramamine will be your best friend for any sailboat rides or catamaran tours you plan to book.
Where to Stay in St. Barts
Where you choose to stay in St. Barts will be dependent on which part of the island you’d most like to explore. I stayed in Gustavia at Le Carl Gustaf on the west side of St. Barts. The property offered everything you’d expect from a five-star hotel in the Caribbean: gorgeous accommodations with views of the harbor, a large deck with its own onsite mini pool, access to the hotel’s soothing spa, Spa Diane Barrière, and yummy coastal food that’s only steps away from your suite – courtesy of Beefbar.
Le Carl Gustaf is also in close proximity to Downtown Gustavia and the capital’s main street, which is a walkable shopping district that’s lined with luxury boutiques and restaurants. It’s the perfect location for those looking to get a taste of everything that St. Barts has to offer – from its sweeping harbor views and tucked-away beaches (like Shell Beach) to hikes and access to high-end shopping.
Other popular tourist spots on the island include Nikki Beach in Saint-Jean, Gouverneur Beach (located on the southern portion of the island), and Cheval Blanc, which is a popular celebrity hotspot that’s hosted the likes of Beyoncé, Madonna, and more.
Ahead, see what you shouldn’t forget to pack for a trip to St. Barts.
