A good packing list for Bonaire ensures you can fully enjoy this Caribbean dive destination without forgetting important items. The tropical climate, numerous dive sites, and specific regulations on Bonaire require thoughtful preparation.
Essential information for your Bonaire vacation
- Visitor Entry Tax: $75 for ages 13+, $10 for children (arrange online)
- Nature Fee STINAPA: $40 per year for sea and nature park access
- Temperature: 27-32°C, water temperature 26-28°C
- Currency: US Dollar (USD) since 2011
- Power outlets: American plugs (type A/B), adapter needed
- Documents: Valid passport required, Dutch ID not accepted
Required documents and taxes for Bonaire
For your trip to Bonaire you need various mandatory documents and taxes that must be arranged in advance. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay on the island and cannot expire during your vacation. A Dutch identity card is not accepted on Bonaire.
Besides your passport, you need a valid Dutch driver's license if you want to rent a car. You must have held the license for at least one year. Don't forget to make copies of important documents and store them separately.
Arrange Visitor Entry Tax online
The Visitor Entry Tax is mandatory for all tourists and costs $75 for people aged 13 and older and $10 for children up to 12 years. You can pay this tax online starting seven days before your arrival date via the Bonaire government website. It's possible to pay the Visitor Entry Tax with iDeal.
After payment you'll receive a QR code via email. This QR code is scanned by customs at Flamingo Airport upon arrival. If you don't do this in advance, you'll have to fill out a long form at the airport after a nine-hour flight - something you won't feel like doing after traveling for so long.
Save the QR code both digitally on your phone and printed on paper. Make sure your phone is charged upon arrival and that the QR code is clearly readable.
Nature Fee from STINAPA Bonaire
The Nature Fee from STINAPA Bonaire costs $40 for people aged 13 and older and is required as soon as you enter the sea or nature parks. This fee provides access to both the Bonaire National Marine Park and Washington Slagbaai National Park. The tag is valid for a full year from January to December.
Stichting Nationale Parken (STINAPA) Bonaire is the umbrella organization managing Washington Slagbaai National Park, the Marine Park, and numerous protected nature areas. Children under 13 and residents of Bonaire, Aruba, Curaçao, Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten are exempt from the fee, unless they participate in diving.
You can buy the Nature Fee online on the STINAPA website and it's possible to pay with iDeal. After payment you'll receive a digital tag that you can download to your phone. Save this carefully and make a backup.
| Tax | Cost 13+ | Cost 0-12 | When to arrange |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor Entry Tax | $75 | $10 | 7 days in advance |
| Nature Fee STINAPA | $40 | Free | Online before departure |
Dive equipment: rent or bring to Bonaire
Bonaire is known as the shore diving destination of the world with 86 official dive sites, most accessible from the beach. Water temperature stays between 26-28°C year-round, meaning you don't need a thick wetsuit. The decision to bring dive equipment or rent depends on your experience, budget, and how much you plan to dive.
Bonaire's west coast offers ideal conditions for shore diving with calm water and a reef that often starts just 5-10 meters from shore. You can dive and snorkel directly from the coast without a boat. Underwater visibility is excellent with an average of 20-30 meters and sometimes up to 40 meters.
Bringing your own dive gear
Your dive mask and snorkel are absolute must-haves to bring. A well-fitting mask is crucial for comfort and safety, and you should test it at home. Bring spare mask straps since saltwater and sun deteriorate rubber. Your dive computer is also wise to bring - you're familiar with it and know it works properly.
A 3mm wetsuit is ideal for the 26-28°C water temperature. This provides protection against coral and small injuries without overheating. A lycra suit or rash guard can also suffice if you get cold easily. For feet, adjustable fins are convenient - they fit different dive boots and water shoes.
Bring defog solution for your mask and a dive knife or cutting tool for emergencies. An underwater camera with extra batteries and memory cards allows you to capture the rich marine life. Don't forget a waterproof bag to keep your gear dry during transport.
Renting dive equipment on Bonaire
Local dive centers like dive shops on Bonaire offer high-quality rental equipment. Quality is generally good because shore diving is so popular and there's high demand for reliable gear. You can rent complete sets including BCD, regulators, wetsuit and accessories.
The advantage of renting is less luggage and equipment that's locally maintained and serviced. The downside is being less familiar with the gear and rental costs adding up during longer vacations. Book dive equipment in advance, especially during high season from December to April.
For shore diving you only need air or nitrox tanks that you can pick up at dive centers. Many centers also deliver tanks to your accommodation. Your dive certification and logbook are required to rent tanks.
| Equipment | Bring | Rent on Bonaire |
|---|---|---|
| Dive mask & snorkel | Required - must fit properly | Possible, but fit risk |
| Dive computer | Recommended - familiar system | Possible, different interface |
| Wetsuit 3mm | Good for long vacations | Good local quality |
| BCD & Regulators | Lots of luggage and weight | Professionally maintained |
| Fins | Adjustable types convenient | Limited size selection |
Clothing for Bonaire's tropical climate
Bonaire's tropical climate means temperatures stay between 27-32°C year-round. Humidity is fairly high at 76%, which causes clothing to dry slower than you're used to. The constant trade winds from the northeast provide cooling, especially along the coast.
UV radiation in the Caribbean is much stronger than in the Netherlands, so your skin burns faster. That's why it's important to bring clothing that offers sun protection. Restaurants and hotels often have strong air conditioning, so a light sweater or cardigan is handy for indoors.
Daily clothing for 27-32°C
Cotton and linen shirts breathe well and are comfortable in the warm, humid climate. Avoid synthetic materials that breathe poorly and start smelling faster. Bring at least 2-3 sets of swimwear so you always have a dry set - swimwear dries slowly due to high humidity.
Quick-dry shorts in light colors reflect heat better than dark colors. Bring a mix of short and long pants - long pants protect against the sun and are sometimes required in restaurants in the evening. A light cardigan or thin sweater is essential for air-conditioned spaces that are often set to 18-20°C.
Underwear made from breathable materials like cotton or bamboo prevents irritation in the warm climate. Bring plenty of socks - your feet sweat more in closed shoes. Sleepwear made from light materials ensures comfortable nights.
Special clothing for activities
For visiting Washington Slagbaai National Park you need long pants and closed shoes. The park has unpaved roads and hiking trails where you need protection from thorns and sharp stones. The hike to Mount Brandaris requires sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
A UV shirt or rash guard is essential for extended time in the water. This protects your back and shoulders from the strong sun while snorkeling. A cap or wide-brimmed hat protects your face and neck - the sun is high in the sky virtually year-round.
Water shoes are essential for Bonaire's rocky coast. Many dive sites don't have sandy beaches but rocky entrances with sharp stones and coral fragments. Good water shoes prevent cuts and provide grip on slippery rocks.
| Clothing type | Recommended amount | Material | Why important |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-shirts | 5-7 pieces | Cotton/bamboo | Breathe well, UV protection |
| Swimwear | 2-3 sets | Quick-dry | Slow drying due to humidity |
| Long pants | 2 pieces | Light cotton | Restaurants, Washington Slagbaai |
| Water shoes | 1 pair | Neoprene/rubber | Protection rocky coast |
| UV shirt | 1-2 pieces | UPF 50+ | Sun protection in water |
Sun protection and skin care on Bonaire
UV radiation on Bonaire is significantly stronger than in the Netherlands due to its location at 12 degrees north latitude. The sun is high in the sky virtually year-round and reflects off white sand and clear water. Without adequate protection you'll burn within 15-20 minutes, even when it's cloudy.
Reef-safe sunscreen is mandatory in all protected marine areas of Bonaire. The Bonaire National Marine Park prohibits sunscreens containing harmful chemicals that damage coral. Choose products with SPF 30 or higher based on zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These mineral filters are safe for coral and provide excellent protection.
After-sun products are essential after a day in the sun and saltwater. Saltwater dries out your skin and constant sun creates extra stress. Aloe vera grows wild on Bonaire and is used locally for skin care - you can see plants growing in Washington Slagbaai National Park.
Don't forget your lips - lip balm with SPF prevents painful burning. The constant trade winds can dry out your lips additionally. Sunglasses with UV protection are essential - light reflects strongly off water and white sand.
Apply sunscreen well in advance (30 minutes before exposure) and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming. Water-resistant sunscreen still loses protection from sweat and water. The time between 11:00 and 15:00 is most dangerous - seek shade then or wear protective clothing.
- SPF 30 or higher, reef-safe (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide)
- Water-resistant, but still renew every 2 hours
- After-sun or aloe vera gel for after sun exposure
- Lip balm with UV protection
- Sunglasses with UV400 protection
- Cap or wide-brimmed hat
- Avoid spray products that blow away in wind
Medication and first aid for your Bonaire trip
A well-assembled medication kit can save your vacation if small problems arise. Bonaire does have a hospital (Fundashon Mariadal) and pharmacies in Kralendijk, but specific medications may not be available or much more expensive than in the Netherlands. Therefore always bring a basic supply of important medications.
For divers, dive insurance is essential. Bonaire has a decompression chamber at the hospital, but treatment is expensive without good insurance. A dive accident can cost thousands of dollars. Make sure your insurance covers decompression sickness and medical repatriation.
Assembling basic first aid kit
Waterproof bandages and gauze are essential on an island where you're often in water. Regular bandages come off quickly from water and sweat. Disinfectant for small cuts from coral or rocks is essential - wounds infect quickly in tropical climates.
Paracetamol and ibuprofen help with headaches, muscle pain after diving and fever. Bring both because they have different effects. ORS (oral rehydration salts) are important for diarrhea in warm climate - dehydration occurs faster than in the Netherlands.
A digital thermometer helps assess fever. Sports tape is handy for stabilizing sprained ankles on uneven terrain. Tweezers help remove coral fragments or splinters from your feet.
Tropical medications and protection
Anti-mosquito spray with at least 30% DEET protects against mosquitoes that are especially active in evenings around standing water. Although there's no malaria on Bonaire, mosquitoes can cause annoying itchy bumps. Spray clothing too, not just your skin.
Anti-itch remedy like Systral or Afterbite helps with mosquito bites and itching from seawater. Antacids can be handy if your stomach doesn't react well to local food or changed drinking water. Although tap water on Bonaire is safe, the taste can be different due to desalination.
Bring an extra supply of personal medication - often double what you need. Medications can get lost or your vacation might unexpectedly last longer due to flight problems. Store medications in different places in your luggage.
| Medication/Product | Why important | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof bandages | Cuts from coral/rocks | 20-30 pieces |
| Anti-mosquito spray DEET | Evening protection | 1-2 bottles |
| Paracetamol/Ibuprofen | Pain, fever, inflammation | 50 tablets each |
| ORS sachets | Rehydration for diarrhea | 10 sachets |
| Wound disinfection | Prevent infection | 1 bottle 100ml |
| Personal medication | Treatment continuity | 2x usual supply |
Electronic devices and power on Bonaire
Bonaire has a different electrical system than the Netherlands, meaning you need adapters and possibly transformers. The island uses both 110V and 220V voltage, depending on location. Many hotels have both systems, but always check this in advance.
WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants and cafes in Kralendijk, but can be slow. For reliable internet you can buy a local SIM card for about $30 with unlimited internet. This is especially handy for sharing dive photos and using navigation apps.
Plugs and voltage on Bonaire
Bonaire uses American plugs type A (two flat pins) and type B (two flat pins plus grounding). Dutch plugs don't fit, so an adapter is absolutely necessary. Universal adapters work well and are available at electronics stores.
The voltage is 127V/50Hz in most parts of the island, but some new hotels have 220V. Dutch devices can have problems with 110V - laptop chargers usually work, but hair dryers and coffee machines might not. Always check your device labels.
A transformer is needed for devices that only handle 220V. Modern phone chargers and laptops are usually 100-240V compatible and work without a transformer. Don't blow-dry with a Dutch hair dryer on 110V - it will run too slowly and can overheat.
Cameras and waterproof protection
An underwater camera is essential for Bonaire - the marine life is too beautiful not to capture. GoPros are popular, but disposable underwater cameras also work well as a budget option. Don't forget that memory cards and batteries are more expensive locally than in the Netherlands.
Extra batteries are essential because charging isn't always possible at remote dive sites. Heat drains batteries faster than normal. Power banks are handy for long days on the water or in Washington Slagbaai National Park where no power is available.
Waterproof cases for your phone protect against sand and saltwater, even if you don't dive. Salt can damage contacts if not properly rinsed off. Silica gel packets in your camera bag prevent moisture from damaging electronics.
- Universal adapter (type A/B for US plugs)
- Transformer for 220V devices if needed
- Underwater camera with extra memory cards
- Power bank for long days outside
- Extra batteries (expensive to buy locally)
- Waterproof case for phone
- All chargers for your devices
Transportation and car rental on Bonaire
Public transportation doesn't exist on Bonaire, so a rental car is practically essential to explore the island. Car rental on Bonaire is well organized with multiple providers at Flamingo Airport. Most rental companies also offer pickup and delivery service to your hotel.
A pickup truck or SUV with high ground clearance is strongly recommended. Many dive sites are accessible via unpaved roads with holes and stones. For Washington Slagbaai National Park a high car is even mandatory - regular cars won't make it through.
Parking is free throughout the island and there are no parking meters or blue zones. At dive sites there are usually small parking areas directly by the water. In Kralendijk you can park anywhere along the roadside. Gas stations are limited and have fixed opening hours - fill up on weekdays.
Traffic drives on the right and the speed limit is 40 km/h in built-up areas and 60 km/h outside. There are no traffic lights on the island - only stop signs and right-of-way roads. Your Dutch driver's license is valid, but you must have held it for at least one year.
Many roads outside Kralendijk are unpaved but manageable with the right car. The route to Boca Slagbaai, Playa Frans and other northern dive sites requires a high car. Regular cars get stuck in holes or damage the undercarriage on protruding stones.
| Road type | Car needed | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Paved main roads | All cars | Kralendijk, airport, Lac Bay |
| Paved side roads | All cars | Bachelor's Beach, Donkey Beach |
| Unpaved roads | SUV/Pickup | 1000 Steps, Salt Pier |
| Washington Slagbaai | High SUV required | Boca Slagbaai, Playa Funchi |
Money and payment methods on Bonaire
The US dollar has been the official currency of Bonaire since 2011. Dutch euros are not accepted, so you need to exchange or withdraw dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, but always carry some cash for smaller businesses and food trucks.
ATMs are available at banks in Kralendijk and at the airport. Watch out for banking fees - each transaction can cost €3-5. It's cheaper to withdraw large amounts at once than many small amounts. Some Dutch banks have partnerships that make withdrawing cheaper.
Bringing US dollars from the Netherlands can be cheaper than withdrawing locally, especially for longer vacations. Exchange at your Dutch bank before departure - rates are often better than on the island. Bring different denominations - many small businesses can't break large bills.
Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15%) and for dive guides and taxi drivers. Many restaurants already include a 10-15% service charge on the bill, so check this before giving extra tip. Cash is preferred for tipping.
Mobile payment via Dutch banking apps usually doesn't work on Bonaire. Credit card is the most universal payment method after cash. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, American Express less so. Inform your bank about your travel plans to prevent blocking.
- Bring US dollars or withdraw locally
- Credit card as backup (Visa/Mastercard)
- Cash for food trucks and small shops
- Watch banking fees when withdrawing (€3-5 per transaction)
- Different denominations for tips and small expenses
- Inform your bank about your trip
What you DON'T need to bring to Bonaire
Many travelers pack too much for tropical destinations. Bonaire has well-developed tourist infrastructure, so many daily items are available locally. By bringing less you have more room for souvenirs and avoid excess baggage fees.
You don't need to bring towels - all hotels and resorts provide these and wash them daily. Pool towels are often available at the pool. You can buy beach towels locally if you want one for day trips.
Hair dryers are present in virtually all hotel rooms. The local power grid can be different (110V vs 220V), so a Dutch hair dryer might not work optimally. Leave this at home and use hotel facilities. Same goes for coffee makers and kettles.
You don't need to bring lots of shampoo and shower gel - hotels provide this and there are supermarkets in Kralendijk where you can buy familiar brands. Only bring special products you don't want to miss. Laundry detergent is also available locally if you want to wash clothes.
You can leave thick winter clothing at home - temperature rarely drops below 25°C, even at night. A light sweater for air-conditioned spaces is sufficient. Rain jackets are unnecessary - showers are short and warm, and light clothing dries quickly.
Travel guides in book form are unnecessary with modern smartphones and apps. Digital guides are more current and take no space. Bonaire.com has all the information you need on your phone.
| Leave at home | Why not needed | Available on Bonaire |
|---|---|---|
| Towels | Hotels provide free | Daily clean towels |
| Hair dryer | In every hotel room | Adapted to local voltage |
| Lots of shampoo | Hotels provide + local stores | Supermarkets in Kralendijk |
| Winter clothing | Temperature always 25°C+ | Light clothing available |
| Umbrella | Showers short and warm | Quick-dry clothing better |
| Travel guide (book) | Apps and websites more current | Free WiFi for digital info |
Final tips for your departure to Bonaire
The last week before departure is crucial for a smooth trip to Bonaire. Make sure all documents and taxes are arranged, your luggage is properly packed and you know what to expect. Good preparation prevents stress and ensures your vacation can start optimally.
The flight to Bonaire takes about nine hours direct from Amsterdam with KLM or TUI. This is long enough to experience jet lag - start shifting your sleep schedule a few days before departure. Bonaire is in the AST time zone (UTC-4), which means it's 5-6 hours later than in the Netherlands.
Week before departure checklist
Pay the Visitor Entry Tax online and print the QR code as backup besides saving it on your phone. Buy the Nature Fee from STINAPA if you plan to dive, snorkel or visit nature parks. You can also pay this with iDeal and it provides access to all protected areas.
Book your rental car in advance, especially during high season from December to April. An SUV or pickup truck is strongly recommended for access to all dive sites. Check if your dive insurance is current and covers decompression sickness - this is essential for divers and can save thousands of dollars.
Check the weather and pack your suitcase according to the latest forecasts. Bonaire has dry and wet seasons, but it's always warm. Check that all medications are still valid and have sufficient supply. Make copies of important documents and store them separately from originals.
On departure day
Make sure your phone is fully charged and QR codes are clearly readable. Download offline maps of Bonaire in case internet is slow. Keep your passport and other important documents in carry-on luggage - loss of checked baggage shouldn't disrupt your trip.
Put medications in carry-on luggage in original packaging. Liquids must be in bottles of maximum 100ml and in a transparent bag. Don't forget your camera - the first sunset from the plane heading to the Caribbean is already worth a photo.
Check in online to save time at Schiphol. Arrive 3 hours before international flights. Download entertainment for the journey - 9 hours of flying goes faster with good movies or podcasts about diving and Bonaire.
Save emergency contacts on your phone: your hotel, car rental company, dive shop and the Dutch consulate in Curaçao. Although problems are rare, it's reassuring to know where you can get help.
- QR codes digital AND printed as backup
- Phone fully charged + power bank
- Offline maps downloaded
- Medications in carry-on luggage
- Camera with extra batteries/memory cards
- Entertainment for 9 hours of flying
- Emergency contacts saved
- Online check-in completed
Frequently asked questions about packing for Bonaire
How much does the Visitor Entry Tax for Bonaire cost?
The Visitor Entry Tax costs $75 for people aged 13 and older and $10 for children up to 12 years. You can pay this tax online starting seven days before your arrival via the Bonaire government website. After payment you receive a QR code that is scanned by customs at Flamingo Airport upon arrival.
Can I use Dutch plugs on Bonaire?
No, Dutch plugs don't fit the outlets on Bonaire. The island uses American plugs type A and B. You need a universal adapter. Additionally, the voltage is 127V instead of 220V, so some Dutch devices also need a transformer to function properly.
What sunscreen is allowed at the coral reef?
Only reef-safe sunscreen is allowed in the Bonaire National Marine Park. Choose products with mineral filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide with at least SPF 30. Avoid chemical sun filters that damage coral. Check the label for 'reef-safe' or 'coral-safe' mentions before buying.
Should I bring my own dive gear to Bonaire?
Your dive mask and snorkel are essential to bring because they must fit perfectly. A dive computer is also recommended because you're familiar with it. Other equipment like BCD, regulators and wetsuits can be rented well from local dive centers. For shore diving you only need tanks that you pick up locally.
What type of car do I need on Bonaire?
An SUV or pickup truck with high ground clearance is strongly recommended. Many dive sites are accessible via unpaved roads with stones and holes. For Washington Slagbaai National Park a high car is even mandatory - regular cars won't make it through without damaging the undercarriage.
Can I pay with Dutch euros on Bonaire?
No, the US dollar has been the official currency of Bonaire since 2011. Dutch euros are not accepted. You can withdraw dollars at ATMs in Kralendijk (watch out for banking fees of €3-5 per transaction) or exchange in advance at your Dutch bank. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants.
How many days in advance should I arrange the Nature Fee?
You can arrange the STINAPA Nature Fee online from the moment you book your trip. There's no minimum preparation time required. The fee costs $40 for people aged 13 and older and provides access to both the Marine Park and Washington Slagbaai National Park. You can pay with iDeal and immediately receive a digital tag.
Are there mosquitoes on Bonaire and what should I bring?
Yes, there are mosquitoes on Bonaire, especially in the evenings around standing water and mangroves. Bring anti-mosquito spray with at least 30% DEET. Although there's no malaria on Bonaire, mosquitoes can cause annoying itchy bumps. An anti-itch remedy like Afterbite is also handy to bring for relief from bites.
