What to Pack for a Trip to Hawaii
Hawaii is a tropical paradise that has been a long-time classic American favorite destination for decades. The warm weather, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal beach destination if you’re craving some lush warm weather. To fully enjoy your trip, it's important to pack properly. Grab your suitcases and run through this list of essential items to bring on your trip to Hawaii.
Sun Protection
With its sunny and warm weather, sun protection is a must when packing for a trip to Hawaii. If your skin is sensitive, be sure to pack SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Other great options for sun protection are swim shirts, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and zinc. Zinc is a powerful sunscreen that is all-natural, so doesn’t damage coral reefs as chemical sunscreens do.
Swimwear
Hawaii is all about its exquisite beaches, so make sure to bring multiple swimsuits. Even if you’re more of a pool person, having a good number of swimsuits on hand is ideal to ensure you always have a dry, stylish, and comfortable swimsuit on hand. Bring some swimsuits that are both functional and stylish so you have options for water sports or water activities as well as an option for looking cute while tanning and sipping on cocktails by the pool. If you’re sensitive to the sun or coming with kids, don’t forget to bring along some swim shirts for extra sun protection. If you’re not staying somewhere that provides beach towels, be sure to pack one for comfortable beach lounging and drying off after swimming.
Light and Breathable Clothing
Light and breathable clothing is a must for the hot and humid tropical weather you’ll find in Hawaii. Pack loose clothing items for ample airflow. Be sure to choose breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Our top pick for looking and feeling good in the tropics is cotton shirts and linen shirts for women and men. Pack enough shorts, skirts, loose pants, and dresses that will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. It never hurts to pack some more formal clothing items, such as a nice dress, as you never know when you’re going to have an opportunity to dress up.
The Right Footwear
Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Hawaii. With all its jungle and world-famous hikes, you’ll want to be sure you have the right footwear for ample exploration. Pack a pair of comfortable sneakers or supportive sandals for sightseeing and hiking. For beach days, bring a pair of water shoes or flip-flops to protect your feet from hot sand and sharp rocks.
Light Jackets or Sweatshirts
Although the tropics are hot during the day, temperatures can drop in the evenings and become significantly cooler. Especially at certain times of the year, expect fresh nights and steamy days. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket, sweatshirt for women, or hoodies for those cooler times of the day or when hanging out in air-conditioned spaces. Avoid woolen fabrics and stick to cotton sweatshirts for a lighter and less sticky layer. Light jackets can also work great as a rain layer for those spontaneous tropical rainstorms.
Backpack or Tote Bag
A backpack or tote bag is essential for carrying your essentials around, such as sunscreen, water, and snacks.
Water Bottle
Hydration is important when exploring Hawaii because the heat can make you dehydrated very quickly. Be sure to bring a refillable water bottle, which will be easier to refill, save money on buying water bottles, and also save on plastic waste.
Camera
While everyone has a smartphone these days, there’s nothing quite like the high-quality images you get from cameras. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture all of the beautiful scenery and your great memories. Hawaii is known for its breathtaking views and landscapes, so you don’t want to miss an opportunity to capture the beauty.
First-aid kit
Though medical care is accessible in Hawaii, it’s always a good idea to bring a small first-aid kit when traveling which should include band-aids, pain relief medication, and any personal medications you may need.
Insect Repellent
Like most tropical places on earth, Hawaii is home to many bugs and insects. If you are sensitive to mosquito bites, be sure to pack insect repellent or citronella oils to keep them at bay.
Portable Charger
With all the sightseeing and adventures you’ll be on during your trip to Hawaii, you really don't want your phone or camera to run out of battery. We recommend packing a portable charger to keep your devices charged while on the go so you never miss a moment or connection.
Hawaii is a tropical paradise that offers a wide range of activities, lush beaches, and stunning scenery. Packing properly will ensure that you have an enjoyable and comfortable trip without missing any of your essentials. With these items packed, you’ll be ready to make the most of your holiday to Hawaii.