Packing list for Sint Eustatius, travel insurance for Sint Eustatius and taking your belongings

What to take to Sint Eustatius: brief

To pack and check

• Documents and money: Sint Eustatius (Statia) is a special municipality of the Netherlands. A valid passport is sufficient for short term staying Dutch travelers. Check the rules, if a visa is needed for other countries. 
• The official currency is the US dollar (USD). You can withdraw cash, but not necessarily, so keeping some cash on hand is wise.
• Clothing: light, summery clothing for the tropical climate. A thin cardigan or light raincoat can be pleasant during a rain shower or a cool evening on the higher parts of the island. Covering clothing is appreciated for visits to churches and official institutions.
• Shoes: flip-flops or sandals for daily activities. Furthermore, good walking shoes are not an unnecessary luxury. The climb to the Quill volcano or hikes in the national park require sturdy footwear.
• Packing and protection: a rain cover for your backpack and a dry bag for boat trips are handy. Tropical showers occur regularly. Insects and animals: a set of mosquito repellents (preferably with DEET or picaridine).
• Medicines and travel first-aid kit: a first-aid kit with plasters, blister plasters, ORS, painkillers, and something for insect bites. Do you use specific medications? Bring a sufficient supply; the selection on Statia can be limited.
• Outdoors and handy items: reusable water bottle, sunglasses, snorkel set, and a small daypack.
• Technology and equipment: a travel adapter for type A and B sockets (American system). 
• Personal care and hygiene: reef-safe sunscreen with a high SPF.

To consider

• Binoculars for birds and whales.
• Water shoes for rocky entry points.
• An underwater camera for snorkeling and diving.
• Quick-drying towel.
• A good book or boardgames to play. The nightlife is limited, and chances are you will mainly be occupied with nature, the sea, and peace.

Are there mosquitoes on Sint Eustatius?

• Yes, especially after rainfall and around vegetation, mosquitoes can be quite prevalent.
• In the Caribbean, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Usually, they are primarily a source of irritation, but proper protection remains wise.
• More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sandflies on Sint Eustatius?

• Sandflies are generally not a problem on Sint Eustatius.
• More about sandflies and sand fleas.

Can you buy DEET, or other mosquito repellents, on Sint Eustatius?

• Mosquito repellent is available at supermarkets and some drugstores.
• However, the selection is limited compared to other countries. When you have a favorite brand or a preference for a high percentage of DEET, it is useful to bring it along.

Can you buy a joint or weed on Sint Eustatius, or bring it to Sint Eustatius?

• Although Sint Eustatius is part of the Netherlands, Dutch coffeeshop policy does not apply here. Cannabis is illegal. Because the island is located on a known drug smuggling route, controls are strict.
• The penalties for possession, sale, use and import can also be high.