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If you have been a reader (or social follower), you know I have no shame in sharing my love for Caribbean festivals and events, especially Carnival. I haven’t played mas in a while, but I stay up to date with the music and various carnival events held each year. Trinidad & Tobago Carnival is almost here and people from all over the world are preparing to visit the twin-island republic for what they call “the greatest show on earth”. If you’re participating in any of the festivities this year, today I’m sharing a list of items to bring along in an ultimate packing list for Trinidad Carnival.
Related: Carnival Prep: Tips for Getting Ready for the Road
Bare Essentials for Trinidad Carnival
The first items to include on your list are carnival packing essentials. If you’re traveling anywhere outside of your own country a passport book is needed. Make sure you’re aware of any visa or passport expiration requirements before heading out as well. You don’t want to be denied entry on your flight for not having enough free pages or time left before expiration. To save time after landing, have the phone number and address of the hotel, guest house, or family member you’re staying with for the Customs & Immigration agent. I’ve known many people to not be prepared and get frustrated when they don’t have this information when entering Trinidad.
Health, Beauty & Hair Essentials for Carnival
Specifically for the ladies, this will probably be the second-biggest category of items to add to your packing list. Pack basic toiletries, along with prescription and pain medications. If it is that time of the month, I suggest using a menstrual cup over tampons and pads since you only have to empty it every 8-10 hours. When it comes to styling your hair for Trini Carnival, protective styles work best, but you may want to wear your hair differently. Make sure it is out of your face and bring a good amount of shampoo and conditioner. As far as makeup goes, pack essential skincare and beauty items. You can schedule to do your makeup for Carnival Monday and Tuesday for a fee or check out these carnival makeup ideas for a DIY look.
Trinidad Carnival Fete Wear
If you’re attending Trinidad Carnival you need outfits for the various types of fetes. There are pool and beach fetes, cooler fetes, all-inclusive fetes, boat rides, all-white fetes and so many more. The more comfortable the better works for me, but this is Carnival! You want to look your best because EVERYONE will be taking photos EVERYWHERE. Here are some sites for great fete wear for women.
For casual, glam and bohemian styles, check out these outdoor fete suggestions. If you plan on cooling down on Ash Wednesday for a beach lime (or fete), dress accordingly. Make sure to bring enough food and drinks or head over to Richard’s Bake and Shark at Maracas for a taste of Trinidadian goodness.
Related: 10 Must-Haves for the Perfect Beach Day
J’ouvert
While you want to look your best at a fete, J’ouvert is a little bit different. Wear shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty or thrown away. If you’re concerned about getting your hair messed up with mud, oil, paint, and powder, a clear shower cap with a bandana or cheap wig should suffice. I highly suggest wearing baby oil to make the oil and paint come off easier after J’ouvert.
The Road
In addition to wearing costumes for Carnival Tuesday, there has been a huge increase in styles available for Trinidad Carnival Monday wear. Add beads, glitter, body jewelry and more to your carnival costume for Monday wear and Carnival Tuesday. The more creative your Carnival Monday wear ideas are, the better. You WANT to stand out.
Trinidad Carnival Monday Wear
You should be just as glam for Carnival Monday as you are for Carnival Tuesday minus your costume. Here are some Carnival Monday wear ideas and accessories to add to your existing looks. They come in various colors too.
Carnival Tuesday
Pretty Mas aka Carnival Tuesday for Trinidad Carnival is when you want to wear your full costume. Make sure to have a sewing kit handy just in case you need to make any adjustments after your costume pickup. Nylon stockings for carnival are a big “No!”. Purchase carnival stockings from Carnivalista, Fete Dolls, or wear no stockings.
Need an easy Trinidad Carnival checklist or printout to help while packing? Click here to download a copy of my FREE carnival packing list. If this post was helpful, make sure to pin it for future reference and share it with your social community.
Check Out These Carnival Related Posts
Quick and Easy Carnival Makeup Inspiration for the Road
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Experience Bahamian Culture at Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival
I was just in Trinidad on vacation! I loved it there! #blmgirl
Glad you had a great time. I miss it. It’s like my second home
One day I will go play mas or at least fete after fete in Trinidad. Great tips. #BLMGirls