Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Aruba - Your All-in-One Travel Checklist

Traveling to Aruba is easy, but good preparation makes all the difference. From documents and payments to transportation, activities, and on-island tips – this guide helps you arrive relaxed and enjoy every moment of your stay on One Happy Island.

1. Smooth Travel Preparation

A stress-free trip starts with good planning, no matter where you’re flying from.

Check Your Airline Requirements

Before departure, always check:

Baggage limits and allowed items
Online check-in availability
Passport validity requirements set by your airline

Prepare for Airport Security & Immigration

To move smoothly through airports:

Keep travel documents easily accessible
Follow liquid and carry-on regulations
Ensure electronic devices are charged

2. Travel Documents & Entry Requirements

Arriving prepared avoids delays on arrival in Aruba.

Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay
Visa: Most travelers (including EU, U.S., Canada, and UK passport holders) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days
Online ED Card: Mandatory for all travelers staying longer than 24 hours

Online ED Card (Embarkation & Disembarkation Card)

Must be completed before travel
Includes passport details, flight information, and accommodation address
Confirmation should be saved digitally or printed

Completing the Online ED Card in advance helps ensure a smooth arrival at Queen Beatrix International Airport.

3. Money, Payments & Cards

Payments in Aruba are straightforward and traveler-friendly.

Local currency: Aruban Florin (AWG)
USD is widely accepted across the island
Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere
Contactless payments are widely available

Debit & Credit Cards

Activate your debit card for international use before travel
ATMs are available throughout Aruba, including Oranjestad, Palm Beach, and Eagle Beach

Good to know: Car rental companies usually place a temporary security hold on your credit card.

4. Book Your Activities & Excursions in Advance

Aruba offers a wide range of tours and experiences, but many have limited availability.
Popular activities that often sell out include:

To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book your activities in advance, especially during high season or cruise ship days.

Explore and book tours on My Aruba Guide.

5. Transportation on the Island

Getting around Aruba is easy, especially if you plan ahead.

Renting a Car

A rental car is recommended if you want flexibility and freedom.
With a car, you can easily visit sights and attractions such as:

Arikok National Park
Baby Beach
California Lighthouse
Natural Bridge area
Beaches, restaurants and viewpoints across the island

Important: Rental cars can sell out during high season. Reserve early.

Gas Stations

Gas is prepaid before pumping. Any unused balance is refunded at the counter.

Offline Navigation

Download offline maps before arrival:

Google Maps (offline)
Maps.me
Physical Pull Out Map from the My Aruba Guide Travel Magazine

6. Flying & Arrival

Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is modern and efficient.

Clear signage in English and Dutch
Car rentals, taxis, and private transfers available on arrival
Airport is 10–15 minutes from most hotels and resort areas

Tip: Aruba offers U.S. pre-clearance for departing flights to the U.S., allowing you to arrive as a domestic passenger.

7. Traveling With Children

Aruba is very family-friendly.
Baby and toddler equipment can be rented locally, including:

Car seats
High chairs
Travel cots
Strollers and buggies

This makes traveling with young children much easier.

8. Climate, Clothing & What to Wear

Aruba has a warm, dry climate year-round with cooling trade winds.

9. Beaches & Safety

Aruba’s beaches are beautiful and well maintained.

Many beaches have calm, swimmable waters
Use dry bags for valuables
Some remote beaches have limited facilities – bring water and snacks

Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, but standard travel awareness is always recommended.

10. Internet & Communication

Staying connected in Aruba is easy.

Free Wi-Fi in most hotels, cafés, and restaurants
Mobile coverage is reliable across the island
eSIMs can be purchased at local mobile network operators: Setar and Digicel
Offline maps are useful in remote areas

11. Health & Practical Tips

Tap water is safe to drink everywhere in Aruba
Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are essential
Aloe-based products are widely available and popular for sun care

12. Shopping & Tipping

Shopping

Popular souvenirs include:

Aloe-based skincare products
Local rum and spirits
Handmade jewelry, art, and souvenirs

Tipping

15% is customary in restaurants
Some restaurants include a service charge – check your bill

Complete Packing List for Aruba

This page focuses on practical travel tips and preparation. For a full item-by-item packing checklist - including clothing, beach gear, tech, health items, and excursion essentials – visit our dedicated Aruba Packing List page.

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