What to Pack for a Trip to Casa Botanica in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Planning a trip to Casa Botanica? Our luxury villa for rent comes outfitted with so many amazing

features and amenities. On top of the ocean and jungle views, as well as the beach access, you’ll

enjoy your own private, natural pool; high-speed WiFi access so you can post all your great

photos and vacay videos to your favorite social media feed; a full kitchen (with a private chef

service, if needed); a golf cart to get around; and more.

However, you’ll still need to pack a few of your own things, in order to make this stay your best,

most convenient and most memorable vacation yet. Here’s what we suggest you add to your

packing list.

All Your Beach Gear

Yes, you should definitely bring your favorite swimsuit, but also make sure you pack…

- Reef-safe sunscreen.

This must-have is absolutely necessary any time you head out on a Bocas del Toro excursion.

Not only do you want to make sure you keep your skin healthy and happy during your trip

(nothing ruins a vacation like a bad sunburn!), but you also want to protect the beautiful coral

reefs offshore.

To find out if your sunscreen is reef-safe, just look at the ingredients list. Avoid sunscreens that

contain reef-damaging ingredients such as avobenzone, butylparaben, ecamsule octinoxate,

oxybenzone, 4-methylbenzylidine camphor, non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (via PADI).

- A microfiber beach towel

A microfiber beach towel will take up little space in your luggage but will easily and quickly

soak up any water or sweat that you need it to, during your trip. You can toss it in your backpack

or beach bag when you’re on your way to the beach, or just adventuring around the islands, and

it’ll always be conveniently handy.

- Snorkel equipment/masks

If you frequently snorkel and have your own equipment and masks, feel free to pack them.

However, if you don’t, no worries. You’ll find this equipment available for rent throughout the

islands.

Protective Wear

You don’t just need sunscreen to stay safe and healthy during a trip to Bocas del Toro. You’ll

also want to pack…

- A sun shirt and a hat

Sun shirts and other protective clothing help further block UV rays. Sun-protection clothing is

especially a good idea for those with sensitive skin and children, as well as older adults or those

taking certain medications that may make their skin more likely to burn (via REI).

(And while sun-protection clothing covers a lot of skin, don’t worry; most sun-protection

clothing is made with the heat in mind, so you won’t get all hot and sweaty!)

- A rain poncho

It’s not just the sun that you have to think about! Rain showers aren’t uncommon in Bocas del

Toro, especially at certain times of year, so be sure to bring a rain poncho. Don’t, however, bring

a raincoat. Raincoats can often be a little too warm for the area. A poncho is the way to go.

- 100% DEET Bug Spray

Don’t let the mosquitos leave you scratching for your entire trip. Pack some bug spray that uses a

100% DEET formula, for the greatest protection possible.

Other Extras to Pack

Beyond these must-haves for a convenient and comfortable trip to Bocas del Toro, also consider

packing a refillable water bottle, so you can stay hydrated throughout your adventures without

contributing to plastic waste. Additionally, consider packing a portable Bluetooth speaker, for

use both in your villa, as well as on the beach.

After You Get Here, We’ll Take Care of the Rest

Ready to pack? We can’t wait to welcome you to the beautiful Casa Botanica. Our luxury beach

villa for rent is ready and waiting for you, your family, and your friends. Check out everything you can

expect during your stay and reach out to book your trip now!