Checklist and travel preparation for a vacation to Bonaire

What should you definitely not forget when going on vacation to Bonaire? Check out our handy checklist to make sure you don’t miss any important things.

• Book your vacation
  Of course, the most important thing: book a wonderful vacation to Bonaire. Check interesting deals or last-minute offers at Expedia, or book a separate flight to Bonaire via Kiwi.com.
  
  
  ***

  

  Very good: 8.0

  Resort Bonaire

  Resort Bonaire is the perfect base to explore or relax on Bonaire. The swimming pool is surrounded by sand, giving you the feeling of being at the beach right away. If you want to visit a real beach for activities like snorkeling, it’s just a short walk away. The spacious rooms and apartments offer plenty of comfort and can accommodate up to eight guests. After a day of exploring the island, unwind with a drink at the pool bar. Just three miles away you'll find Kralendijk, a great spot for a lively tropical atmosphere and some shopping. Perfect for enjoying a lively tropical atmosphere and a day of shopping. Resort Bonaire guarantees an unforgettable vacation!Further information
  & check prices!
  Tip! The Van der Valk Plaza Island Residence Bonaire has been completely renovated!
  Book this hotel directly at Booking.com!
  
  
• Check your passport
  Passport: Make sure your passport is valid when you arrive in Bonaire. It must remain valid for your entire stay on the island and cannot expire during your trip.
• Reserve your seat
  If you're flying from the USA to Bonaire you can usually reserve your airplane seat in advance. This depends on the airline you’re flying with. Most major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United offer seat reservations during booking or later through their website or app. Standard seats are sometimes free, but there may be an additional fee for extra legroom or premium seats. Check with your airline for available options and costs.
TUI Boeing 787 Dreamliner.


• Reserve your airport parking
  Are you driving to the airport? Make sure to reserve your parking spot in advance. On the Airport-Reservations.com website, you can easily book your parking space online with discounts of up to 70%.
  
  Tip! Reserve a parking spot for your car directly at Airport-reservations.com.
  
  
• Pay the Tourist Tax in advance
  If you’re traveling to Bonaire, you must pay the tourist tax (Visitor Entry Tax) starting from 2023. You can take care of this online up to seven days before your departure to Bonaire. Simply fill out the online form provided by the Bonaire government, and you will receive a QR code via email. This QR code will be scanned by customs at the airport upon arrival.
  
  If you haven’t paid in advance, you can still do so at the airport after landing. However, after a flight, the last thing you’ll want to do is fill out a lengthy form. That’s why we strongly recommend handling it before your trip.
  
  What are the costs for the Visitor Entry Tax (2025)?
  - Ages 13 and older: $75
  - Ages 12 and younger: $10
  
  Tip! Pay the Visitor Entry Tax in advance through the official Bonaire government website!
  
  
• Purchase the Nature Fee in advance
  Of course you’ll want to swim, dive, windsurf, snorkel, or visit Washington Slagbaai National Park while on Bonaire. To do so you’ll need a Nature Fee. You can arrange this before your departure to Bonaire by filling out the online form on the STINAPA Bonaire website (Stichting Nationale Parken Bonaire). After completing the process you’ll receive a QR code that you can store on your phone. The Nature Fee is valid for one year. The revenue from this fee helps preserve Bonaire’s nature and underwater world.
  
  What are the costs of the Nature Fee (2025)?
  Ages 13 and older: $40
  Ages 12 and younger: Free
  
  Tip! Purchase the Nature Fee in advance from STINAPA Bonaire!
  
  The underwater world on Bonaire is stunning. Fortunately a lot is being done on the island to protect this beautiful natural environment.
  
  
• Arrange travel insurance
  Are you planning to go diving on Bonaire? Keep this in mind when applying for travel insurance, as diving is usually not covered by default.
• Get a medication list for travel
  Do you take prescription medication? Make sure you have enough for your trip. Ask your doctor or pharmacy for a medication list or doctor’s note detailing your prescriptions. This can help you avoid any issues when traveling, especially at customs or if you need medical assistance abroad.
• Buy reef-safe sunscreen
  Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen. The sun on Bonaire is much stronger than in most parts of the U.S. During our first days on the island we always use SPF 50. On our first visit we didn’t take sun protection as seriously—and we definitely paid the price. Also, be sure to choose a reef-safe sunscreen that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs. Many destinations, including Bonaire, encourage or even require the use of environmentally friendly sunscreens to help protect marine life.
• Check your luggage
  Before you leave, check the airline’s baggage size and weight limits. One time, our suitcase was too heavy, and we had to remove items at the airport. Definitely not ideal! Also, don’t forget to get a TSA-approved lock for your suitcase. Make sure to pack all devices with rechargeable batteries in your carry-on, as they are not allowed in checked luggage. This rule is strictly enforced, especially on return flights from Flamingo Airport Bonaire.
• Rent a car in advance
  Are you planning to rent a car? Be sure to book it online in advance. This way you’ll have the best selection and ensure availability. We’ve had great experiences with AB Car Rental, check out our review to learn more!
  
  Tip! Rent a car at AB Car Rental!
  
  Want to explore the entire island? You'll definitely need a car!
  
  
• Online check-in for your flight to bonaire
  Save time at the airport by checking in online before your flight to Bonaire. Most airlines allow online check-in 24 hours before departure, so you can select your seat and get your boarding pass in advance. Once at the airport simply drop off your luggage and head to security. This makes your travel experience smoother and more convenient!
• Bring insect repellent
  Unfortunately mosquitoes can be quite a nuisance on Bonaire. To protect yourself it's a good idea to purchase an effective insect repellent before traveling. Look for a repellent that contains DEET, as it provides the best protection against mosquitoes. If you prefer a natural alternative, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) are also effective options. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so be sure to apply repellent during these times. Especially if you're spending time outdoors.
• Flight information
  Make sure you have all your flight details with you, including flight numbers and departure times. If you booked with an airline like Delta, American Airlines, or United, you can find all this information in their official app on your phone.
• Travel Details
  Leave your travel details with a trusted friend or family member, so they know where you’ll be during your trip. This can be helpful in case of emergencies.
• Create a to-do list
  Make a list of all the things you want to do and see on Bonaire, and make the most of your trip. Enjoy every moment! Wishing you an amazing vacation on Bonaire!

Also read:

• Read our travel report filled with personal tips on things to do in Bonaire!

All Inclusive Plaza Resort Bonaire

With the amazing all inclusive formula of Plaza Resort you can enjoy Bonaire unlimited!

Read more

Kiwi.com best airline deals

Are you looking for a flight to Bonaire? At Kiwi.com, you'll find cheap flights that you won't find anywhere else.

Book here!

The best car rental deals on Bonaire

Are you going to dive on Bonaire? Then you definitely need a car! Rent a car at AB Car Rental!

Read more

Activities and tours on Bonaire

The best activities on Bonaire can be easily booked at home online at Viator!

Read more