Tropical Island Checklist

For Parents

__ Mesh laundry bag: Keeps beach necessities in and lets sand sift out.

__ First-aid kit: Include tweezers, hydrocortisone cream, and rubbing alcohol, in case of jellyfish stings.

__ Waterproof/underwater disposable camera

__ Packable straw hat: Look for ones you can literally roll up pack in your bag.

__ Soft-sided cooler: It's easy to pack and perfect for keeping bottles, boxed drinks, and snacks cold.

__ Biodegradable travel soap: Use to rinse salt water from expensive swim suits -- also works as body wash and shampoo.

__ Pareo or sarong: Use as a bathing suit cover-up, towel, or shawl in air-conditioned restaurants.

World traveler Anne McAlpin is the author of the popular book and video series, Pack It Up. Visit her Web site www.packitup.com for more travel tips.