Your reservations are all set, and you’re ready to fly to the furthest island on the globe. Tropical vacations are perfect ways to catch up on your rest, explore new worlds and discover those amazing trinkets in the stores. As you prepare for the trip, use these smart-packing tips that will see you through any adventure.

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Bring Clothes to Mix and Match

It’s not necessary to bring five or six different outfits on your vacation. Ideally, bring two or three tops and bottoms. Switch them around during your vacation so that the look is different each time. Mixing and matching your clothes will only reduce the volume in your luggage while making laundry easier when you get home. Light colors, such as white, are good choices for mixing and matching because they complement nearly every color in the rainbow.

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Take Care of Your Skin

Every tropical paradise will be sunny, and protecting your skin must be a priority. To protect yourself and the environment, try using coral reef safe sunscreen. It offers the same protection for your skin while reducing the harm the chemicals have on the coral reefs. Rub sunscreen on your skin in the morning. Be sure to reapply it every two to three hours. Burnt skin won’t be an issue while you’re exploring the seashore.

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One Pair of Heels

When you hit the beach, your shoe choices are very simple. Bring flip-flops or canvas shoes for the daytime. You may want to dance the night away or visit a formal restaurant later on. Bring one pair of heels that will match any outfit. There’s no need to haul around three or four pairs of shoes when you’re trying to relax on vacation.

Don’t Forget the Hat

Pack a collapsible hat for those really hot days. The hat protects your scalp from burning while keeping you cool. Wear it during hikes or biking adventures. These hats can fold into a compact shape during traveling so there’s no issue about fitting them into the luggage. If you forget your hat, buying one on the island is possible. Be aware that you’ll pay a premium for the choice.

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Before you stuff your suitcase full of personal items, look over the luggage itself. Tears, broken zippers and other structural problems can compromise the items within. Switch to another bag instead of mending the broken one. You don’t want any mishaps occurring on the way to paradise.