Carnival weekend is not the time to “wing it.” Between fetes, long days, heat, and nonstop movement, the difference between a good weekend and a stressful one is usually… the small stuff you forgot.
This carry-on-friendly Carnival packing list is built for Carnival season travel (especially Trinidad), so you can pack light but still have everything you need to look good, feel comfortable, and stay ready for photos.
Quick Tip Before You Pack: Review Your Party Schedule (Themes Matter)
Before you pack outfits, review exactly which parties you’re going to—because some fetes have themes and it changes what you should bring.
A simple styling rule that works:
- Breakfast parties: think bright colors (fresh, fun, daytime energy)
- Night parties: think sequins, rhinestones, metallics, or even glow-in-the-dark pieces
If you’re trying to pack smart, choose a base look like Mondaywear and switch up accessories to create multiple “fits” without overpacking.
The Carry-On Carnival Packing List (Save This)
Clothing + Outfits
- 2–4 main outfits (based on your schedule)
- 1 backup outfit (simple base you can dress up)
- 1 lightweight cover-up/oversized shirt (for downtime)
- Underwear + bras (extras matter)
- Rags to represent where you’re from (flag colors / island pride pieces)
Accessories (the “make it Carnival” section)
- Headpiece
- Face gems
- Feather backpack (statement piece)
- Stockings / leg accessories
- Hats (sun + style)
- Multiple sunglasses (because the fit changes)
- Thigh bag or fanny pack (a must)
Shoes (don’t let shoes ruin your weekend)
Most venues are outside—think grass, sand, mud, and uneven ground—so plan your shoes around that.
- Comfortable flats (recommended)
- Sneakers (recommended)
- Blister protection (non-negotiable)
Beauty + Hair
- Sunscreen
- Deodorant
- Setting spray / powder (if you use it)
- Hair ties/pins
- Makeup basics (keep it light)
The Touch-Up Kit (keep this in your bag)
- Wipes
- Mini mirror
- Lip gloss
- Band-aids
- Safety pins
- Mini deodorant
- Hand sanitizer
Tech + Travel
- Portable charger + cable
- Screenshots of tickets/booking info
- ID + cards + a little cash
Carry-On Packing Tips for Carnival Weekend
- Pack outfits as full sets (top + bottom + accessories) in one packing cube
- Keep sunglasses + small accessories in a clear pouch
- Keep your touch-up kit in your personal item
- Pack shoes you can handle grass/sand/mud
Shop the Packing List (CarnivalMW)
- Shop Mondaywear
- Shop Headpieces
- Shop Face Gems
- Shop Feather Backpacks
- Shop Bags
- Shop Stockings
- Shop Caribbean Flag Collection
- Shop Wire Bras
- Shop Carnival Supplies
- Design Your Own Custom Carnival Costume or Feather Backpack
Join the CarnivalMW Family: Share your creative designs with us on social media using the hashtag #carnivalmw and become a part of our vibrant community of carnival lovers and designers!
#carnivalmw #carnivalweekend #trinidadcarnival #packwithme #fetefits #caribbeanstyle #roadready #carnivalprep #fete #tribe #travel