There is so much adventure to be had jungle-side in the tropics and what better way to go exploring other than in style, with Black-owned businesses at your ready. Whether you’re headed to Panama, Costa Rica, Mexico, the Caribbean or even more towards Thailand or the Philippines, you’re bound for an unforgettable tropical adventure. There are certainly a few things you’ll need to prepare for as you go deeper into the thick of nature. Here is a list of Black-owned businesses to support as you prepare for the wilder side of life on your vacation.

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Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a must-have for this cabin trip. You’ll come into contact with bugs of all kinds and the mosquitoes… will surely find you. Packing Akoma’s natural and organic tea tree oil will help you prevent or treat the annoying insect bites while exploring the jungle.

Insect Repellent

Envato Elements

Having said that, FugOff is a Black-owned organic repellent brand that will save the day. Ranging from sprays to shea butter to Dog sprays, this is your go-to product for a trip in the wild. We suggest the travel size combo – Organic Shea Butter, Large Spray & Travel Size Spray to keep you fully protected.

Sun Screen

Tim Robberts | Getty Images

While soaking up that tropical heat, it is important to stay protected! We recommend packing Bolden’s SPF 30 Brightening moisturizer, a Black woman-owned brand, to keep your skin safe, moisturized and glowing on your tropical getaway.

Swimsuit

Photo by Spencer Selover

Nubian skin is a Black-owned brand that prioritizes ‘nude’ aesthetics for all shades of Black. The brand is perfect for your cabin getaway, whether you’re heading to the beach or keeping in the jungle, this is the Black-owned brand to keep on your radar. The reversible Bikini bottom is a Nubian Skin fave.

Day Backpack

Photo by RF Studio

Heading out for some day trips? You’ll want a perfectly sized travel backpack to keep all your necessities close. Check out Want Less Essentiels’ utility pack, ideal for trips in the jungle, camping, zip-lining through the lush green of the rainforest or trips down to the beach. This utility pack is within the lower Impact collection and is made from recycled nylon.

Balm

Credit: Angela Roma

How else can you enjoy a trip to the tropics if your skin isn’t acting right? Skincare, and specifically finding that balance while in a new environment, can be tricky and time-consuming. Thankfully, Alaffia is a Black-owned brand that has you covered. Try the Africa’s secret multi-use unscented balm for a tried and tested recipe passed down from generation to generation.

Satin Bonnet

bonnets
Getty

Finally, heading to tropical climates means protecting your curls – at all costs. A combination of the humidity, rain and intense heat will call for some much-needed TLC, especially while sleeping. Invest in a gorgeous Ankara satin bonnet by Krafts by Kerry, and keep your hair in perfect shape during your trip.