Are you planning a trip to Hawaii? Lucky you! Few places are as gorgeous and diverse to rival Hawaii. Like any travel destination, having a packing list is key to maximizing space in your luggage. To help you out, I have prepared a Hawaii packing list (PDF) that you can use as a checklist for your travel preparation.
At the bottom of this article, you will also find a free printable Hawaii packing list which you can download, print, and use as you get your luggage ready!
Things to know about Hawaii travel
There are a few things to note about Hawaii as you plan your travel and pack for your trip. These notes will help you make smart decisions about what to carry, and what to expect.
Weather in Hawaii
The weather in Hawaii is quite diverse. While the beaches and resorts have your typical high temperature, other places will be rainy or cold. For example, the high elevation mountains such as Mt. Haleakala (Maui) and Mauna Kea (Big Island) have very cold weather as the sun dips. So, you need to be prepared with layers of clothing. On the other hand, the leeward sides of the islands experience frequent tropical rainfall. Therefore, plan your days with appropriate clothing in mind. The weather can also change rapidly during the day.
Water adventure equipment you should carry
If you’re planning to do some snorkeling (which I highly recommend), take your gear with you. This includes snorkel masks, flippers, etc. However, if the equipment is on the heavy side, you should rent. Not many airlines have generous luggage allowance, so choose your items wisely.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Since January 2021, Hawaii allows only reef-safe sunscreen on the islands. The reason ]is that sunscreen containing oxybenzone or octinoxate is harmful to coral reefs. And coral reefs are critical to sustaining the marine ecosystem in Hawaii and other places with thriving reefs. Please do your part and do not use anything other than reef-safe sunscreen while visiting Hawaii. The fishes and corals will thank you :).
Are drones allowed in Hawaii?
Flying a drone is allowed in specific parts of Hawaii for recreational and commercial purposes. However, this is subject to FAA regulation and local drone laws put in place by local governments. Note that you cannot use a drone in the Hawaii state parks. Take a look at more drone information here.
Cost to replace items
If you find yourself running out of luggage allowance, do not fret. Most items can be purchased in the more popular Hawaiian islands. Big stores like Walmart are present on the islands of Maui, Oahu, Big Island, and Kauai. The cost of things is relatively comparable to the mainland US, too.
Leave some room in your bag
Shopping in Hawaii is a lot of fun! Be it beachy dresses or starfish earrings (how adorable are those?), there’s some shopping you’ll be glad to save room for. Thus, resist the urge to fill your bags to the brim. You will also want to do some souvenir shopping such as coffee, macadamia nuts, or a swimsuit!
Since you will be flying to Hawaii, check out this resource on travel items you should have in your carry-on luggage!
Hawaii Packing List for Everyone
Everyone should carry these items to have the best possible time in Hawaii. Additionally, you won’t be wasting your time going around in supermarkets looking for them.
Reef-safe sunscreen
The number one item on all my beach vacation lists is reef-safe sunscreen. The best one I’ve used is this one.
Swimsuit
This one is an obvious one, but if you are in Hawaii, you gotta pack a couple of swimsuits, right?
My favorite color for swimsuits is blue or aqua. They make for stunning photos with the blue waters or sky as your backdrop.
Gear for water activities
If you can, carry your gear for any water activities you plan to experience. In particular, if you have a well-fitted snorkel mask, take it with you. This is especially true if you are a newbie snorkeler as nothing can ruin your first time snorkeling experience as a loose mask. Fins are less important but still crazy useful.
Medicines for tropical locations
Tropical destinations have their fair share of unfortunate mishaps. So, carry antibiotic ointments and bug bite pain relievers as these can really help save your vacation.
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunglasses with UV protection are the best for your eyes! Plus, you know, they’ll help you to actually be able to see things in the strong Hawaiian sun. If you have prescription glasses, do not forget them!
Sandals
Sandals are great Hawaiian accessories for all ages and genders. They are acceptable to be worn anywhere and keep you looking stylish but beach-ready.
A good book - always at the top of my list!
I can never not recommend a good book for travel. I myself prefer a physical book, but a Kindle is equally engaging. Nothing beats a good book while I laze by the pool and sip on a cocktail.
GoPro or underwater camera
If you expect to be spending time underwater in Hawaii (and you absolutely should!) take a GoPro or an underwater camera. Hawaii is extremely beautiful both in and out of the water. And you can capture stunning images and videos of marine life and coral reefs.
Camera stand
Especially important if you are traveling solo, or if you like to travel with a buddy, but don’t want to ask for photos from random strangers. I personally think a camera stand is super handy if you are a photography enthusiast and know just the right angles and composition you need for your images. Coz let’s face it, photos taken by other people can sometimes just not be great, amirite?
Lip balm with SPF
Lip balm, but with SPF. Your lips can get sunburnt too. And that would make for a very unpleasant experience.
Bug spray
Some of us unfortunate people just seem to attract bugs and mosquitos like nobody’s business! Needless to say, in Hawaii’s tropical lush jungles, we are the victims that can be bitten badly by bugs. One such unpleasant experience is enough to convince anyone to keep this as a must on your packing list.
Hiking shoes with water resistance
Chances are, you will be hiking a lot in Hawaii. Even if you’re not an avid hiker, Hawaii has much to explore beyond the mesmerizing beaches and resorts. And thanks to the unpredictable weather within a day, you will be thankful for carrying hiking shoes that are slip-free and water-resistant.
Hair tie - for my long-haired peeps
If you have long hair and are going to be in the water, make sure to carry a hair tie. Having open hair in the water can be very distracting as they tend to float around your head. I would highly recommend tying up your luscious locks into a ponytail.
Drone
As mentioned above, videography enthusiasts can and should carry a drone, if you have one. In a lot of beautiful destinations, drones are not allowed. Case in point, the Maldives resorts. However, you can fly your drone in most areas of Hawaii. Go on, and fly the thing!
Waterproof phone case
Since you will be spending time in the water, make yourself stress-free and get a waterproof phone case. That way, you don’t have to leave your phone behind on the beach when you jump into the ocean. And you can continue to click away while frolicking among the waves.
Rashguard shirt
Rashes caused by sunburn are pretty common when you spend several hours of the day in the sun. I have used rash guards while snorkeling in the afternoons and my skin thanks me for it. Do yourself a favor and get one.
Packing cubes
One of the best ways to stay organized and maximize space in your luggage is to invest in packing cubes.
Aloe Gel
Admittedly, I have never been sunburnt to the degree that it requires skin repair. But I have seen it with my husband! Few things can wreck your fun time as sunburnt skin. However, these things do happen. Spare yourself the pain and carry nourishing aloe gel that can offer your sunburnt skin some relief should you need it.
Warm clothes, if you plan to go to high elevation areas like Mt. Haleakala
As noted above, if you plan to go to the mountain tops, carry layers of clothing. Fleece clothing works the best for transitioning from the chilly evening to night temperatures.
Razor
You should pack a razor. It’s one of those things that are easy to miss, and you’re left kicking yourself for forgetting it.
Refillable water bottle
Everyone should carry plenty of water. The weather can be hot and humid, so the best way to combat it is to have plenty of potable water with you. Get a collapsible water bottle to make filling up at water fountains a breeze.
Hawaii Packing List for Women
In addition to the list for everyone above, women can use the following list for packing for Hawaii.
Flowy dresses
Flowy dresses in breathable fabrics are your friend in Hawaii! They transition well from day to night, resort to restaurants and look fabulous.
Clothing in natural fibers
For t-shirts and shorts, make sure to bring clothing in natural fabrics like cotton and linen. With temperatures upwards of 80 and 90 F, other types of fabrics can get uncomfortable very quickly. You’ll thank me later 😉
Sun hat for women
For some sun protection and to take awesome IG photos!
Makeup and skincare items
Make-up items I always carry on vacations are outlined in my carry on bag article here. Essentials include some eye makeup, concealer, lip gloss, and highlighter. Specifically for a beach getaway, I also like to carry moisturizing skincare with SPF. The same goes for your hair too. Salty ocean water can be rough on your hair. Make sure to carry a conditioner for after the beach.
Shorts for women
Shorts in breathable fabrics are awesome to throw on over your swimwear as you make your way to the hotel from the beach. Or from one snorkeling spot to the next. Or from one waterfall where you take a dip, to the next spot. They are great for a myriad of opportunities.
Flip flops and thong sandals
My footwear of choice. Flip flops are great for lounging by the pool or the beach. Switch them up with thong sandals for lunch or dinner.
Sarong/beach coverup
No beach packing list would be complete without a beach coverup or sarong. Throw on one over your swimsuit, and you’ll look like a million bucks. They are also an awesome accessory for photos. Not to mention, making mad dashes from the pool to the slurpy stand nearby.
Hawaii Packing List for Men
In addition to the list for everyone above, men can use the following list for packing for Hawaii.
Shorts for men
Shorts are super versatile for men in Hawaii. Not only can you go hiking in those, but also to restaurants (even semi-formal ones) and for sightseeing. In fact, my husband lived in his khaki and white shorts the entire duration we stayed at Oahu.
Cotton or linen shirts
To put together an easy outfit, top off the shorts with a linen or cotton material t-shirt, and you are ready. Don’t forget to forgo the Hawaiian shirt 🙂
Flip flops
Flip flops are great for men as well. They are just super handy around the pool and the beach.
Sun hat or baseball cap
Don’t skimp out on the sun hat. They are more than just cool IG-friendly accessories used by women. If you are hiking on a trail with little shade, a sun hat will be your best friend.
Shaving kit essentials
Sport a well-groomed beard or a clean-shaven face for your vacation.
Hawaii Packing List for the Family
Traveling with a family means having to take into consideration the needs of multiple people in the group. In addition to the individual lists for women and men above, use the following list to ensure you have all the needs of your family checked off.
Motion sickness meds
Always useful in the event of water activities, motion sickness meds are something you don’t think you need until it is too late. They are especially useful if you will be sailing on the deep seas (eg. on a snorkeling expedition). Usually, by the time you realize you need to take a pill for it, it is too late and you may find yourself hurling over the edge of your boat. Spare yourself the discomfort and carry some meds. You won’t regret it.
Laundry bag
Oh, the smelly clothes! What do you do once you use the freshly-laundered clothes you packed and now they are dirty and perhaps smelly? You obviously don’t want to stash them with your minty fresh clothes. Carry a laundry bag (or just a mesh bag) that won’t take up any room in your luggage, but will keep the used pile separate.
Nourishing moisturizer
The sun has its own way of wreaking havoc on your skin. Even though your hotel may provide you with moisturizer, it is best to carry some yourself. Just note that your skin will likely be parched from the salty waters and strong sun, and you will be glad to have a nourishing moisturizer to provide respite to your largest organ.
Hiking backpack or dry bag
A hiking backpack or a dry bag is super handy when you’re exploring the terrain in Hawaii. Thanks to the frequent changes in weather, a dry bag will be your best bet to keep everything tidy and dry as you make your way from waterfalls to volcano peaks.
Beach tote
A beach tote is a must for any beach vacation. You will need the ample space for all your family’s beach must-haves: towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a shovel for the kiddos?
Beach towels
Grab a quick-dry, sand-repellent beach towel for your beach tote. These miraculous towels ensure that you don’t bring the beach back to your hotel room. They are also quick-drying, making a trip to the beach or pool a breeze.
First aid kit
Lastly, a first aid kit is always a good idea, especially if you’re traveling with the family. You never know when an emergency might strike. So, best to be prepared for little mishaps.
Hawaii Packing List for the Kids
Hawaii is a fantastic destination for kids! Not only is there a ton of places to explore, and the beach to frolic in, but there are also numerous educational opportunities for the kids. Suffice it to say that your kids will be having the time of their lives with you! Here are the items you should pack for your kids to make sure they have all the fun they can.
Water activities gear
This is an additional reminder that if you are planning to do activities like snorkeling with your kids, make sure to pack their gear. Especially snorkeling masks. A well-fitted rental one can be hard to come by, depending on the age of the little ones.
Kid-friendly sunscreen
For young tots, make sure to read the labeling of your reef-safe sunscreen to ensure it is safe for use on young skin. Also, take care to have sunscreen with appropriate SPF.
A fun activity like a game or a book
Kids need to be kept entertained, no matter what. Pack a game or their favorite book to keep them busy for the downtimes that are bound to come up in any vacation. A tablet is also a good option.
Water shoes
While I’d recommend water shoes for everyone, this is especially true for kids. The snorkeling spots in Hawaii often have rocky beds that the little ones might accidentally bang against. Water shoes will protect their feet against these mishaps.
Inflatable floatation strap/device
For the young kiddos that are still learning to float or swim, don’t forget to pack an inflatable life jacket. With it, you will have the peace of mind to enjoy the waters with the tiny tots stress-free.
Hawaii Packing List for the Elders
Hawaii is a super friendly place to travel with the elderly. Here’s the list of items you may want to carry in addition to the first list for everyone above.
High SPF reef-safe sunscreen
Especially important to protect older skin, don’t skimp out on high SPF reef-safe sunscreen. The Hawaiian sun is quite strong and can have an adverse effect on the elderly.
Long sleeve clothing
In addition to sunscreen, make sure to carry long sleeve clothing as an added protection against the sun.
Comfortable shoes
Comfortable shoes are an absolute must for your Hawaiian adventure. There will be a lot of walking you will do on rough terrain. Be it a short hike or a walk to see the sights, you will be glad to have packed a comfortable pair of shoes to slip on.
Medication
Medication remains high on my list since it can make such a big difference if you forget them. For the elderly folks who may have prescription meds that are difficult to replace, make sure to add them to your packing list!
Sun hat
Lastly, as I have beaten this topic to death, sun protection is super important. Get extra help shielding your face and neck and invest in a quality sunhat.
Packing List for the Pets
Traveling with pets? Lucky! Your furry friends and you are bound to have a fabulous time exploring Hawaii. Take note of the following list to ensure the furry paws stay safe and happy.
Travel carrier
This is something you’ll need for the flight and to help bundle your pet into when you go places that they might not be able to walk.
Pet food and treats
Always handy to have little tidbits not just for your fur buddies, but also for kids, and frankly, everyone! Don’t forget to pack some pet food, especially if it is a picky eater.
Collapsible water bowl
Super important for the beach or on hikes, a water bowl so your pet never goes thirsty is a must. Also, keep in mind to carry plenty of water for yourself and your pet.
Leash/harness
A leash or a harness is one of those things that as a pet owner, you will likely not forget. But, I had to add it to my list for completion!
Pet medication
Pet medication is another important one. Help relieve the little furball’s ailment and carry their meds. Better to pack them rather than spend time at your destination looking for them.
Health certificate from the vet
Some locations require a health certificate for your pets. Airlines might require them as well. Make sure to read up on the rules of your destination, hotel, and airline so you’re prepared.
Other travel essentials
There are some additional travel essentials that should be a part of all travel trips. These are the things I sometimes tend to forget and deep regret ensues! Additionally, check out my other article on carry-on items you should carry to get a complete picture of these essentials.
- Travel docs
- Cash
- Chargers
- Toiletries
- Travel insurance
- Flashlight
Things to NOT carry to Hawaii
On the flip side of things to carry, there are some items you should definitely not carry with you! These items will add bulk and weight to your luggage, with rarely any use.
High heels
Hawaii has no room for high heels 😀 As mentioned earlier, the dressing style is casual. And your feet will thank you for not subjecting them to heels!
Diving equipment
Diving equipment is heavy. So, depending on your luggage allowance, you’d be best served to rent such heavy, bulky equipment in Hawaii.
Expensive items or jewelry
I generally don’t like carrying too much jewelry to tropical beach destinations. First of all, you don’t need it. Secondly, they tend to stick to your skin, break up with sweat and just be unpleasant after a while.
Too many clothes
Remember to leave some room in your luggage for shopping in Hawaii. Shopping for swimwear is great, as well as souvenirs like coffee bags for your loved ones back home.
Regular towel
Don’t carry a regular towel with you. You will get towels from your hotel or Airbnb, and you need to carry a quick-dry, sand-resistant towel for the beach instead. Save yourself the bulk and skip it.
Free Printable Hawaii Packing List (PDF)
Here’s your free printable Hawaii Packing List in PDF so you can be a packing ninja!
So, are you ready to travel to Hawaii yet? Did this list cover everything that you were looking for? Drop me a comment below and let me know if I missed anything you consider essential!
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Love this list!! We’re planning a trip in August, and going with a baby for the first time! So this article was dropped just in time ❣️
Yay for great timing! 🙂 Hope you find the list useful!