10 Do’s and Don’ts While You’re In Aruba

During my trip to Aruba, I learned quite a bit. Despite hours and hours of research over months, there were things I didn’t anticipate. Some things I didn’t see advised on travel guides, and others I simply chose to ignore, thinking they weren’t a big deal—only to regret that decision once I was there. Aruba has its own unique charm, but also a few challenges that aren’t always mentioned. I’ve compiled a list of 10 do’s and don’ts while you’re in Aruba based on everything I experienced first-hand.

10 Do’s and Don’ts While You’re In Aruba

Do Complete Your ED Card Before Hand

The ED card is a preregistration form required for all visitors entering Aruba. If you show up without it completed, you will be told to step out of the immigration line to complete it on your phone! Save some time by doing it before!

Don’t Stay in An All-Inclusive Resort

Don’t get me wrong, all inclusive resorts are a great way to kick back and relax, but Aruba offers so much more than that!

During my time there, I stayed in a nature retreat with my own private pool, volleyball court, playground, and many more amenities!

Do Check the Weather Consistently

The weather in Aruba is known to be pretty consistent year-round, but you may experience some rain here and there.

Despite the weather app reporting sunny days while I was there, certain hours reported rain. It didn’t affect our itinerary too much, but I suggest consistently checking on it to make sure things go smoothly.

Don’t Expect Everyone to Know English

While a great majority of the population does speak English, not everyone does.

While my husband and I were at a Colombian restaurant, we asked for water (in English) and we were brought two iced teas. When we asked for water again (in Spanish) we were brought 2 cokes!

The official language of Aruba is Dutch and Papiamento which is a Creole language containing elements of Spanish, Portugues, Dutch and English!

Do Rent a Car

As I mentioned before, there is so much more to Aruba than the strip of resorts. Go out and explore the culture and the beautiful scenery on the other side of the island!

We rented our car from Budget which was conveniently across the street from the airport!

Don’t Stress Over Currency Exchange

The entire time there, I had no problem using USD anywhere I went. It wasn’t until the last day I actually requested my change in Aruban Florin and got my first look at the currency!

Do Bring Cash to Tip

Tipping is big in Aruba. Generally, up to 20% is expected. Oddly enough, you can’t tip when paying with card. Make sure you bring cash to tip the workers.

Don’t Eat Out For Every Meal

Dining out in Aruba can be pretty pricey and the cost add up quickly especially if you eat out multiple times a day. I suggest going to the grocery store and stocking up on food and snacks!

Do Bring Reusable Bags

I shouldn’t have been as surprised when I went to the grocery store and had to carry each item out to my car by hand.

Due to their sustainability efforts, Aruba went away with plastic bags. Bring some of your own (or buy local ones there).

Don’t By Water From the Grocery Store

The water is incredibly clean in Aruba, don’t spend your money on bottle water with the same quality and taste as the one from the tap. Remember to bring an insulated water bottle to refill!

Do Bring a Waterproof Phone Case

Aruba has some of the clearest waters, so take advantage of it by taking pictures!

I regret this one because on De Palm Island, we had the opportunity to snorkel, but couldn’t take a picture of all the fish and coral!

Don’t forget a thing with my Ultimate Aruba Packing Guide!

Don’t Underestimate the Bugs

I underestimated the amount of bugs flying around in Aruba! The wind is strong enough to keep them away sometimes, but you’ll still see them flying around. I suggest bringing one that is not in a spray can because the wind will just blow it away.