The most important item on your Aruba travel checklist is the ED Card — complete it at edcardaruba.aw within 7 days before arrival and pay the $20 sustainability fee. After that, it’s about passport, packing, and pre-trip logistics. Here is the complete checklist organized by phase.
Documents Checklist (Most Important)
- ✅ Valid passport — valid for entire stay; not older than 10 years; at least 1 blank page
- ✅ Aruba ED Card qualifier — completed at edcardaruba.aw within 7 days before arrival
- ✅ $20 Sustainability Fee paid — paid by credit card through the ED card portal
- ✅ Return flight confirmation — digital or printed; immigration may ask
- ✅ Hotel booking confirmation — have accommodation address ready
- ✅ Travel insurance details — policy number and emergency contact (not required but recommended)
- ✅ Credit/debit card — USD widely accepted; cards preferred for larger purchases
Before You Fly: Pre-Trip Task Checklist
- ☐ Complete ED card at edcardaruba.aw (within 7 days before arrival — not earlier)
- ☐ Save qualifier to your phone AND print a backup copy
- ☐ Check passport expiry date — must be valid for full trip; not older than 10 years
- ☐ Book travel insurance (trip cancellation + medical)
- ☐ Arrange airport transfer or car rental (book in advance during peak season)
- ☐ Notify your bank you’re traveling to Aruba
- ☐ Download Global Entry or Mobile Passport Control app (for US travelers returning home)
- ☐ Pack reef-safe sunscreen (oxybenzone harmful to Aruba’s reefs)
- ☐ Check airline check-in window — complete online check-in when available
Packing Essentials for Aruba
- Swimwear (multiple sets — they take time to dry)
- Flip-flops / sandals
- Water shoes (rocky beaches)
- Light clothing — cotton or breathable fabric
- Light jacket or cardigan (indoor A/C can be very cold)
- Sunglasses (UV index is very high)
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated; tap water is safe in Aruba)
- Universal power adapter (Aruba uses 110V US-standard plugs)
- Waterproof phone case
Sun Protection Checklist
- ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ — must not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate
- ✅ UV-protective sunglasses
- ✅ Wide-brim hat
- ✅ Rash guard or UV shirt for extended water time
Aruba’s UV index regularly reaches 11+ (extreme). Apply sunscreen every 90 minutes when outdoors. The trade winds make it feel cooler than it is — sunburn risk remains high.
At the Airport: Departure Checklist
- ☐ Arrive 3 hours early for US flights; 2 hours for non-US
- ☐ Have passport, boarding pass, and ED card qualifier ready
- ☐ Liquids in clear ziplock bag; laptop accessible
- ☐ Wear slip-on shoes to speed through security
Arriving in Aruba Checklist
- ☐ Have qualifier ready on phone (or printed backup)
- ☐ Have passport open to bio page
- ☐ Have return ticket and hotel confirmation accessible
- ☐ Declare any agricultural items, large cash amounts, or commercial goods
- ☐ Pick up car rental (if booked) or proceed to taxi rank
Leaving Aruba Checklist
- ☐ No ED card needed to leave — just passport and boarding pass
- ☐ US travelers: arrive 3 hours early for US CBP preclearance
- ☐ Non-US travelers: arrive 2 hours early
- ☐ Return rental car with full tank if required
- ☐ Check hotel checkout time; arrange luggage storage if needed
FAQ
What documents do I need to travel to Aruba?
Valid passport + Aruba ED card qualifier + $20 sustainability fee paid. No visa for US, Canadian, and EU citizens.
When should I fill out the ED card?
Within 7 days before your arrival date — not earlier. More than 7 days in advance means the form won’t be valid.
Do I need reef-safe sunscreen in Aruba?
Yes. Oxybenzone-containing sunscreen is harmful to Aruba’s coral reefs. Use reef-safe SPF 50+.
How much cash should I bring to Aruba?
USD is widely accepted. Bring some cash for tips and small vendors. Credit cards work everywhere.
Do I need a car in Aruba?
Recommended for flexibility. Taxis are expensive for frequent use.
Is travel insurance on the checklist?
Not required, but strongly recommended for medical costs and trip cancellations.
What should I do the night before my flight?
Online check-in, ensure qualifier is saved, pack passport, set early alarm.
Should I exchange money before going to Aruba?
No need. USD accepted everywhere in Aruba.