Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Travel Essentials
Routine vaccinations like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and varicella (chickenpox) are recommended for the United States Virgin Islands. Consider hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid vaccines if you’re planning to explore more rural areas or eat street food. Always check up-to-date health advisories before traveling.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in United States Virgin Islands, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for United States Virgin IslandsCulture & Customs
Dress casually, but respect local norms by avoiding beachwear in towns. Greeting people with a friendly ”good morning” or ”good afternoon” is appreciated. Tipping 15-20% is standard in restaurants.
Punctuality isn’t strict, so expect a relaxed attitude towards time. LGBTQ+ travelers generally find the US Virgin Islands welcoming, though discretion in public is advised in rural areas. Women should feel safe but stay cautious at night, especially in less populated areas.
Avoid discussing politics or the islands’ relationship with the US unless you’re well-informed.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for United States Virgin Islands.
- Fungi and Fish: This is the unofficial dish of the USVI, featuring cornmeal cooked with okra into a smooth, polenta-like texture, usually served with fried or steamed fish. Fungi is all about comfort and tradition, drawing on African and Caribbean influences.
- Callaloo: A hearty green soup made from leafy greens like taro or spinach, mixed with okra, peppers, and often salted meats or crab. It’s a staple dish that reflects the islands’ agricultural roots and African heritage.
- Johnny Cakes: Fried dough balls that are a beloved snack or side dish. These are simple yet delicious, embodying the resourcefulness and simplicity of island cooking. Perfect with just about any meal.
- Pates: These are deep-fried pastries stuffed with spiced meats, fish, or even veggies. They’re a popular street food, great for eating on the go, and reflect the diverse cultural influences of the islands.
- Conch Fritters: Deep-fried balls of dough mixed with conch meat and spices. They’re a must-try for seafood lovers and showcase the islands’ rich marine life and culinary creativity.
Tap water in the United States Virgin Islands is generally considered safe for locals, but tourists are often advised to stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any potential stomach issues. While some hotels and restaurants filter their water, it’s better to err on the side of caution if you have a sensitive stomach. You can easily find bottled water at most stores if needed.
English is the official language of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), making it widely spoken throughout the territory. Visitors will find that most locals, including those in the hospitality industry, government, and education, communicate fluently in English. This facilitates easy interactions for tourists, as menus, signs, and informational materials are typically available in English.
While English is predominant, the local population also speaks a Creole language known as Virgin Islands Creole or ”Crucian,” which incorporates elements from African languages, English, and other influences. This Creole may be heard in casual conversations among locals, but it is generally not a barrier for English-speaking travelers.
In summary, English is not only well spoken but is the primary language in the USVI, ensuring that tourists can navigate the islands comfortably and enjoy their experience without language-related challenges.
Money & Payments
The local currency of United States Virgin Islands is USD ($).
When backpacking through the United States Virgin Islands, you’ll find that ATMs are pretty accessible in urban areas like St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. However, if you’re heading to more secluded spots, it’s wise to carry some cash. The islands use the U.S. dollar, so leave your euros at home. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, but smaller vendors and some remote areas might still be cash-only.
For currency exchange, your best bet is to do so before arriving, as options on the islands are limited and often come with steep fees. If you must exchange on the islands, banks offer better rates than airport kiosks or hotels. Finally, always have a small stash of cash for emergencies, just in case you find yourself in a no-ATM zone or a place that doesn’t accept cards.
Tipping in the United States Virgin Islands generally follows U.S. norms. In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% is customary for good service. For bartenders, a dollar or two per drink is standard, and hotel staff typically receive a few dollars for services like carrying luggage or housekeeping.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.