St.john Virgin Islands: Start Packing for Your Trip

When old man winter comes calling with bone-chilling temps, ice, snow and howling winds, many of us dream of getting away from it all.  St. John, in the US Virgin Islands, is paradise on earth for travelers who enjoy the tropical breezes, sandy beaches, azure water and bountiful mood-lifting sunshine.

Traveling to St. John is easy thanks to the airlines' recognition of this tropical get away. Some carriers offer direct flights to the US Virgin Islands from a number of eastern U.S. airports, while others offer connecting flights after short layovers at major airports like Atlanta, Miami or Charlotte. Upon landing in St. Thomas, you will enjoy a relaxing ferry boat ride to the neighboring island of St. John. Making travel to the Islands even easier and possibly spontaneous, a passport is not required.

When leaving for St. John during the coldest time of year in the north, it can be difficult to dress properly for the trip and to pack correctly for your days of island life. You will be quite uncomfortable in anything that resembles winter clothing when you leave the plane in St. Thomas. Therefore, it is recommended that you layer your clothing. Wear a jogging suit over shorts and a light shirt when you board the plane in the north. When you arrive at the airport, you can simply remove the jogging suit and you will be quite comfortable and won't have to search for the nearest restroom in which to change clothes. (You won't be the only one with this idea and the wait for an available place to change will be long)

Packing for your trip to St. John is easy. Remember to think casual as you fill your bag. St. John is not full of pretenses. It is a laid-back, relaxing environment. The islanders and visitors are usually adorned in shorts, sandals and casual shirts and tops. When dining out men wear linen pants and casual shirts while women wear sundresses. Jackets and suits are definitely not required even at the finest eateries that are often open-air venues.

Comfortable shoes are a requirement as you walk around St. John exploring it's many treasures. There is much to experience and discover as St. John is 2/3 National Park with numerous beaches maintained by the National Park Service along with many historical and cultural points of interest. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also a must for protection from the tropical sun.

If the thought of winter is depressing you already, make a date to travel to St. John now. But don't bring a lot of bulky clothes. Think casual and relaxed. Think unbuttoned and loose fitting. Think how you'll feel with your feet in the sand and the trade winds lightly blowing against your skin.