Your Go-To Hawaii Packing List: What to Bring on Your Vacation

Aloha, future island explorers! Are you planning a vacation to paradise and wondering what to bring to Hawaii? Knowing what to take to Hawaii may become overwhelming while you pack for your trip. We've created the ultimate Hawaii packing list to save you any worries. We all know the feeling of leaving home only to fret that we've left something important behind.

Browse this list, get packing, and leave home confident that you're prepared to hit the beach, explore tropical hiking trails and monuments, and general island relaxation.

Your Hawaii packing list ensures you're prepared for every island escapade.

Travel Essentials That You Should Pack Right Away!

1. Travel Documents

Passports, tickets, and booking confirmations - Keep these items safe and in a waterproof pouch.

2. Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Keep the coral reefs of Hawaii happy with a sunscreen that's safe for the environment. Hawaii has banned using sunscreens that contain harmful oxybenzone and octinoxate, as these chemicals threaten coral reefs.
A high SPF of 50 is recommended for daily use while you're on the sunny island.
Add a reel-safe SPF lip balm to protect your lush lips from the sun.

3. Comfy Beachwear and Accessories

UV protection swimsuits, cover-ups, and flip-flops are your island uniform. Leave the fancy items at home and enjoy kicking back in plenty of beachwear.
Protect yourself from the Hawaiian sun with UV protection sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Water shoes, while not essential, protect your feet from sharp lava rocks while exploring the coastal shores.

4. Activity-Specific Essentials

Sturdy hiking shoes are necessary if you plan to explore the lush landscapes or dormant volcanos.
Snorkeling gear can be hired in many places, but pack your own if you have the space. Snorkeling allows you to explore the magic beneath the kai (ocean).

5. A Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated on your island adventure while reducing your environmental impact. When you want more than H2O, try the local bars within walking distance of the Waikiki Resort Hotel in Oahu.

6. A Portable Charger

Don't worry about your phone battery, and keep those headphones ready to play island beats while you sun tan. A portable power bank is always helpful when traveling, especially for long days of exploring when you've been using your map app.

7. Rain Jacket

Hawaii's rainy season is November to March, but the occasional tropical shower can fall anytime. Pack a lightweight rain jacket that folds up small and easily fits into your luggage. Enjoy the ua (rain); there is life in it!

8. Reusable Shopping Tote

Avoid plastic use while visiting the island. Hawaiian locals genuinely love the land, and sustainable practices like using multi-use items show you care too.

Additional Toiletry Must-Haves You'll Be Glad You Packed

These may seem like 'just in case' goods, but when you need them, you'll be grateful you read this list of things to pack for Hawaii. Consider packing the following toiletry items for your island trip:

Mini first aid kit with painkillers, wound dressings, an instant ice pack, antiseptic creams, and blister plasters.
Aftersun lotion for when you fall asleep in the sun - Bad idea!
Indigestion tablets are a great idea for all the new food you may try while traveling.
Motion sickness bands for day trips on the ocean. (We've got some catamaran tour tips on our blog.)
Bug repellent for pesty mosquitos and other critters.
Rehydration salts are beneficial if you've spent a whole day in the sun. They also restore the fluid balance and natural salts if you suffer from diarrhea. Rehydration salts also speed up recovery following a hangover!
Antihistamine tablets and cream for itchy bites and reactions.

Go and Fulfil Your Hawaii Dreams

Now that you've armed yourself with this checklist, you're ready to soak in Hawaii's sun, surf, and aloha spirit. Pack smart, and get ready for an unforgettable island adventure- and don't forget your passport! Mahalo!