Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
This article contains affiliate links to Amazon and other vendors. We may earn commission from purchases made through these links.
Traveling to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic? If you're planning to go to Santo Domingo, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Santo Domingo
- Important essentials for Santo Domingo
- Activities for Santo Domingo
- Santo Domingo in January: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in February: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in March: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in April: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in May: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in June: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in July: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in August: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in September: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in October: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in November: weather and what to pack
- Santo Domingo in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Based on the climate and weather in Santo Domingo, the best time to go is February. See below for details.
Important essentials for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santo Domingo, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage
Cases are climbing again, and areas are returning to lockdown. If you or a companion get COVID-19, you may be stuck with no way home -- but travel insurance can protect you. Learn more about COVID-19 and travel insurance
-
(U.S. Residents) Telehealth COVID-19 test for entry to U.S.
U.S. residents still need a certified COVID-19 test to return home, but it can now be via Zoom. Learn more
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection you can have.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks don't exist for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently become worn. An unreadable vaccine card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
General health necessities
-
Emergency water purifier
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take an emergency water purifier like this one.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. This one should be appropriate for most places, but check with your hotel.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
For families with young children
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
What to wear/what to pack for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
If you vacation in Santo Domingo during January, you are likely to notice that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
February
February in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Extra socks
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
March
March in Santo Domingo is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
April
If you vacation in Santo Domingo during April, you are likely to see that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
-
Sunglasses
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
May
May in Santo Domingo is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
-
Sunglasses
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
June
June in Santo Domingo is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
July
In July, Santo Domingo is consistently hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Santo Domingo, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Bug repellent
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
-
Sunglasses
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
August
August for Santo Domingo can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
September
If you visit Santo Domingo during September, you may find that it can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
October
October here can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
November
November is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
December
December in Santo Domingo is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Activities for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Santo Domingo.
If you are planning to go to the lovely Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Trousers
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
If you see the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
Check out our guides for these other locations: Taraz, Kazakhstan, Saltaire, England, United Kingdom, Porto Empedocle, Italy, Sanford, Maine, United States of America, Kalyani, India, Rahimyar Khan, Pakistan, Big Corn Island, Nicaragua, Kendwa, Tanzania, Mainpat, India, Daursky Nature Reserve, Russia, and Gdańsk, Poland.