The Only Hawaii Packing List You Need

What to Pack for Hawaii

Pack sunglasses

Again, it’s going to be sunny when you step off the plane.

Pack comfortable shoes

If you’re going hiking, pack hiking shoes. Walking a lot? Bring athletic shoes. In Hawaii, everyone wears slippers (sandals), remember to pack these as well.

Pack appropriate clothing

Men — T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, one pair of long pants and one lightweight jacket is perfect. Yes, bring long pants and a light jacket, the weather can be cool in high altitudes and in the evenings. Women — Shirts, polo shirts, lightweight tops, tanks, skirts, shorts, a pair of slacks and a jacket is ideal. Tip: Laundry machines are abundant in Waikiki. Pack light.

Pack two (2) swimsuits

Pack one suit in your check-in and one in your carry-on luggage. If your suitcase gets lost, you can still swim at the beach while you wait for your luggage to arrive. Plus, you can swim in one pair while the other pair is drying.

Don’t pack expensive jewelry

You may be tempted to bring fashionable jewelry on vacation, but beware: expensive accessories require extra careful security. Instead, pack simple pieces of jewelry or buy affordable Hawaiian jewelry when you arrive.

Pack toiletries

Remember your toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, hairbrush, and anything else you need. Tip: Ask your hotel if they provide free toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, razors, shaving cream, iron and ironing board, hair-dryer.

Pack medications

Don’t forget to bring any important prescription medications.

Pack expensive items in your carry-on

Always pack cameras, laptops, and electronics in your carry-on luggage. You should carry these with you at all times when traveling through airports.

Pack important documents

Place your driver’s license, insurance card, flight information, and passport (if traveling internationally) in a carrying case reserved for important documents. Tip: Keep your important documents close by when traveling.

Pack a refillable water bottle

You can fill this up after passing through airport security, that way you won’t have to spend $3.00 on a bottle of water.

Pack a camera

Bring the camera you are most comfortable with: an iPhone, SLR, or film camera. It’s important to pack a camera that you want to carry with you every day because you will enjoy using it every day. When you’re taking that epic turtle pic on Maui, you’ll want to have it ready.

Pack chargers for your electronics

Power up your phone and laptop the day before traveling, then be sure to pack your chargers that night. It’s easy to forget these on the morning of your flight.

Pack something to read

Something to read—pass the time on the plane reading a good book or magazine.

Pack snacks

Because your airplane carrier might charge you $5 for a pack of Oreos.

Buy these items when you land in Hawaii

• Sunscreen and aloe gel (helps soothes burns)
• Beach towel
• Beach mat
• Slippers (aka sandals, flip flops)
• Batteries
• Hat

Pack appropriate items for your activities

If you’ve booked a tour in Hawaii, plan to pack any special items required for your tour. For example, if you are going shark cage diving on the North Shore, pack (or buy) a waterproof case for your camera.

Pack empty space

Remember to leave space in your luggage for souvenirs and items you buy while shopping in Hawaii.

Password protect your phone

Set a password lock on your smartphone. If you lose your phone, no one will be able to access it.

Double-check your packing list

I’ve already listed these, but always double-check that you have the following:

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Flight Confirmation Number
• Cash, Credit Card, and/or Traveler’s Cheques
• Rental Car Information
• Hotel Confirmation
• Prescription medications
• Health and vehicle insurance cards

I hope you found this packing list extremely useful—if you have any tips to add, please leave a note in the comments section, mahalo!