How to plan an island-hopping trip around the Caribbean
What can you do in the Caribbean? You can gather seashells, chase scuttling crabs, sip beer, eat seafood, party, and catch sunsets. But, most of all, you can island hop to do all these things and have the time of your life. The good thing about island hopping in the Caribbean is that you can do it all on your own.
How to get around while Island hopping in the Caribbean?
Longboats await for island hopping passengers in Caribbean Islands | Image via Wikimedia Commons
You have a few choices at your disposal. If money is no objection, you can charter a private yacht. But you do need to be wealthy to afford such luxuries. The other options include using public ferries (which can be cumbersome when you want to island hop a lot) or flying. You can check out interCaribbean Flights to see if any good deals are available from interCaribbean Airways. Alternatively, you can use cruise ships.
How to plan your route well for Caribbean Island hopping?
At first, in the excitement of prospects, you might wish to simply hop from one island to the subsequent one without a thought spared for practicalities. However, we live in a world where pragmatism saves a lot of trouble. Island airlines plan their routes depending on demand and a lot of other factors. If the island you plan to travel to is not popular, you might have to watch the plane fly over that island once or twice. Check the scheduled flights and make your own plans wisely.
Why you need to book early
If you are using a Caribbean-based airline, you would be better off booking your tickets about two to three months in advance. This way, you can pick the route with your favorite islands, and spend less on-air travel.
How to choose accommodation when island hopping in the Caribbean?
Today, we are used to Airbnb, hostels, and couch-surfing. However, these options are more readily available in developed Caribbean islands and not elsewhere. In the latter case, you can opt for guesthouses. These are more affordable options than hotels. The amenities and rates vary depending on the island. You should do a bit of review research before you pick your guest houses. You get to mingle with the locals who manage guesthouses to see true Caribbean life.
Why do you need to pack lightly when island hopping in the Caribbean?
If you can become one of those travel-savvy explorers who can pack all the essentials for the trip into a carry-on, you will have to be content with less hassle when island hopping. Taking a lot of cases and bags can present problems like lost or delayed luggage. Remember to be mindful of airlines’ size limit on carry-on luggage.
How to make the best of layovers when island hopping in the Caribbean?
Layovers when island hopping is not as bad as layovers when you travel internationally. Certain island airports offer exciting duty-free shops. If there is time, you can take it down to the beach or have a lovely meal at a hotel. Check out your options during layovers before you begin your trip. And, more importantly, be prepared for delays as erratic weather and logistical trouble can cause airlines to postpone flights at times.
What to pack when island hopping in the Caribbean?
For your inflight trip, pack headphones and your tablet. As for clothing, you don’t need a lot. You can pack a few pairs of shorts, quick-drying tank tops for layering, underwear, and a lightweight sweater to brave the cool breeze. In addition, you’ll need your swimsuit and cover-up for the beach. For those dinner dates and night outs a maxi dress, long skirt, or a couple of nice shirts (if you’re a man) would do. It is good to carry a lightweight scarf or shawl with you. As for footwear, take a pair of water shoes, sandals, flip-flops, and one pair of stylish sandals. Remember to take plenty of sunscreens, bug spray, lip balm, OTC medication, and facial hydration mist along with your basic toiletries in travel-size containers. Pack a reusable plastic bag for wet clothes and extra items. Pack a sunhat, sunglasses, a tote bag, and even a collapsible water bottle. Don’t forget a backup charger and adapter for your devices.
