Packing list for Cuba, travel insurance for Cuba, and taking your belongings

What to bring to Cuba: highlighted

Highlighted items:

• Documents: passport valid for at least 6 months after arrival, visa and ESTA if you are traveling via the US. Proof of travel insurance, proof of exit and booking confirmation of your place of residence may also be required.
• Money: bring euros or dollars. In Cuba you can exchange them for Cuban pesos.
• Care: sunscreen is often scarce and expensive, so bringing your own with a high factor is handy.
• Outdoor and conveniences: sunglasses for the sun and a raincoat for the rainy season.
• Clothing: light and breathable clothing because it is often tropically warm.
• Shoes: comfortable walking shoes in any case!
• Medicines and travel kit: a small first aid kit with what you think you need, because pharmacies often have little stock.
• Technology and equipment: world plug type A/B, the same as in the US.
• Women: menstrual products can be hard to find, so bring your prefered products. 

What else can you bring:

• Hygiene wipes/tissues because you don't always find soap or toilet paper in public places.
• Power bank for when the power goes out.
• Ereader or games for the evenings offline.
• Reusable water bottle with filter.

What knowledge is useful when you go to Cuba?

• Knowledge of Spanish is useful to take with you to Cuba.
• Know the rules and know how to travel around and arrange things.

Are there mosquitoes in Cuba?

• Yes, especially in the rainy season. They can transmit dengue and zika, among other things.
• Havana and Varadero do have ways to combat mosquitoes, but outside of those places, you should definitely protect yourself well.

Are there sand flies in Cuba?

• Sand flies are found in Cuba and are locally called jejenes.
• They are particularly common during warm and humid periods and are most active during sunrise and sunset.

Can you buy DEET, or other anti-mosquito products, in Cuba?

• If you are lucky, you will come across a stray bottle or receive one from another traveler.
• It is best to bring your own substance of choice.

Where can you get your food and drinks in Cuba?

• Casa particulares (guesthouses) often offer breakfast and dinner – and that is usually tastier than in restaurants.
• Markets have vegetables, fruit, bread, eggs, and occasionally fish or chicken.
• Restaurants (paladares) are often small-scale – you will find gems and disappointments.
• Supermarkets are limited and unpredictable in terms of selection. Don't expect luxury.

Can you buy a beer or wine in Cuba, or take it to Cuba?

• Buy? Absolutely. Rum is cheap and available everywhere, beer is also available, but wine is harder to find.
• You are allowed to bring three bottles of alcohol, but always check the latest updates.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Cuba, or take it to Cuba?

• No, definitely not! Cannabis is illegal and is severely punished.
• So taking it with you is not possible either.