You know that feeling—you’re halfway through your mojito when it hits you: I forgot.. [insert small but crucial item here]. Happens to the best of us. That’s why we combed through real traveler comments from Cuba groups to bring you the ultimate list of stuff people seriously wish they’d packed.
From overlooked bug defenses to the cup that saved cocktail hour, these are the regrets that could become your game-changers.
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1. The “Don’t Touch Me” Kit: Tea Tree Oil & Vicks
If you’re a mosquito magnet or planning to walk barefoot near your balcony, don’t leave home without something to keep bugs at bay. One traveler said: “I used a 15ml bottle of Australian tea tree oil to keep the bugs off my beach bag, suitcase, and balcony doorway. It works!”
And for no-see-ums? Multiple travelers swear by Vicks Vaporub. Apply it behind your knees, ears, and ankles. “It’s the menthol they hate.”
2. Reusable Cups (with the Straw!)
You think you don’t need one… until you’re stuck with a poolside cocktail in a flimsy little paper cup. One guest summed it up best: “A Yeti for cocktails is the perfect plan.”
Also: don’t forget the straw. More than one traveler cursed themselves for forgetting the straw that goes with their fancy cup.
3. Bring the Flavour: Condiments & Spices
Cuban resorts are big on buffets—but not always on seasoning. If you like a little extra kick, follow this advice: “Bring ketchup and Mrs Dash spices.” Other shoutouts included peanut butter, jam, and juice crystals for DIY drinks.
4. Bug Bite Aftercare
If you forgot the Vicks or tree oil, you’re going to want something soothing. “Calamine lotion,” one traveler wrote. “After Bite. Anything for the itch.”
Others mentioned antibiotic cream, especially for those surprise cuts and scrapes.
5. Face Cloths Are a Hot Topic
They’re not a resort standard. They rarely get replaced. And multiple travelers confirmed this: “There were no face cloths in our room. None.” Pack a few.
6. Pool Hacks: Towel Clips & Plastic Cups
The wind has no mercy, and towel mix-ups are real. Towel clips keep your lounger setup in place. Plus, reusable plastic cups beat resort paper ones any day. “The paper cups at the bar are small and don’t hold up,” one guest warned.
7. Blister Bandages & Real Shoes
Crocs, sandals, and hot sand don’t always mix well with feet. “We hadn’t worn sandals all winter,” said one traveler, “and got the worst blisters.” Bring blister pads or break in those shoes ahead of time.
8. Water Bottles & Electrolytes
The heat hits hard. Travelers recommend bringing insulated water bottles and powdered electrolyte drink sticks. “I got sick one day and would’ve paid $100 for a bottle of Gatorade,” someone confessed.
9. Flashlights & Backups
Power outages happen. One traveler shared: “I had to tip in US dollars just to get a roll of toilet paper for the week.” Bring a flashlight, a spare roll, and maybe some batteries too.
10. A “Small Pharmacy” of Meds
You never think you’ll need meds—until you do. Common recommendations: painkillers, stomach meds, band-aids, allergy pills, and anything you can leave behind for locals if unused.
Bonus Tips from the Packing Pros
- Towel clips (again, seriously)
- Reusable food containers (for buffet snacks)
- Toilet paper (yes, again)
- Heavy-duty sunscreen & aftersun
- Water flavor drops for bland juice
- Snacks (potato chips are hard to find!)
- Face cloths (have we mentioned these yet?)
Want a Better Cuba Experience?
That’s exactly why we created VC Tours. Our private tours, airport transfers, and cultural experiences help travelers skip the guesswork and enjoy the real Cuba—with no resort crowds, no hidden costs, and no paper drink cups.
Need a ride from the airport in a classic car? We’ve got you.
Want to tour Havana without being herded onto a bus? Easy.
Curious about Viñales, Trinidad, or even local markets? Let’s go.
Curious about what your trip could look like? Take a look at our tours and get inspired—your Havana adventure might be closer than you think.
🧭 Useful Links:
- What’s the Best Currency for Cuba? Complete Money Guide for Travellers
- Cuba SIM Card Varadero: Where to Buy It and How to Recharge
- Cuba Mosquito and No-See-Ums Guide: Bug Repellent Tips for Hell-Raisers & Beach Lovers
- Portuguese Man o’ War in Varadero: What You Need to Know (and Avoid Stepping On)