When planning your island vacation, a little preparation goes a long way—especially when it comes to items that can be costly or hard to find once you arrive. At TLC Villas, we want our guests to be comfortable, prepared, and able to fully enjoy their time in paradise. Here are a few packing essentials we highly recommend bringing with you.
Mosquito & Bug Protection (A Must!)
Island bugs are part of tropical life, and being prepared makes all the difference. We strongly recommend packing a strong mosquito repellent, especially an “In the Woods” or similar high-performance formula. These tend to work best in humid, tropical environments.
Bugs are usually most active early in the morning and again around 4:00 PM, and they’re more commonly found near water or still water areas. If your villa is located on a hillside, you may notice fewer bugs—but we still recommend using repellent, as bites can be uncomfortable and linger.
Local tip: Some guests find that applying a small amount of rubbing alcohol to exposed skin can help deter tiny insects like no-see-ums. This isn’t a replacement for repellent, but it can be a helpful extra step for sensitive times of day.Reef-Safe Sunscreen Only, Please
Protecting our beautiful island waters is important to us and to the environment. We ask guests to pack reef-safe sunscreen, especially if you plan on swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
Reef-safe sunscreens help protect coral reefs and marine life from harmful chemicals. While these sunscreens can be a little thicker and take more effort to rub in, they play a big role in preserving the natural beauty that makes this island so special. Mother Nature will thank you
Final Tip
These items are often much more expensive on the island, so packing them ahead of time can save you money and hassle. If you ever have questions about what to bring, where to go, or how to prepare, the TLC Villas team is always happy to help with recommendations and local insight.
We look forward to welcoming you and helping you enjoy a relaxed, unforgettable island stay!