Getting ready for the travel destination of your dreams? Nice! The Maldives is a paradise rivalled by few other places in the world. White sandy beaches, bluest of the blue waters and snorkeling and diving opportunities like no other! Prepare to be completely spoiled after your trip. This Maldives packing list is going to guide you through absolutely everything you will need to carry for the most awesome time on your vacation. At the bottom of this article, you can access a printable packing checklist (pdf) as an extra useful tool for your trip planning.
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Things to know before you pack
Before you start packing for your epic Maldives vacation, these are some useful tidbits of information you need to know and keep in mind.
1. Weight limitations on seaplane
If you are going to catch a seaplane from the Male airport to your hotel island, note that weight limitations apply. These weight limitations are usually more restrictive than the international flights. In general, you can expect to have 20 kg check-in baggage allowance and 5 kg carry-on allowance. This means you will need to be a packing ninja! So, use this checklist to your advantage and pack away.
Don’t know if you will need a seaplane or a speedboat? Check out my post for all information you will need for your Maldives trip.
2. Sandals-free resorts
Some resorts have a policy of not allowing sandals and shoes. You are expected to be barefoot or use the hotel provided flip flops. To facilitate this, the hotel requests that you take off your footwear as soon as you step foot on the island. This is with the promise that they will return your shoes when you leave the island. They do this to encourage you to embrace your vacation right from the moment you step on sand!
3. Snorkel gear may be provided by your hotel for free
Some resorts have a policy of not allowing sandals and shoes. You are expected to be barefoot or use the hotel provided flip flops. To facilitate this, the hotel requests that you take off your footwear as soon as you step foot on the island. This is with the promise that they will return your shoes when you leave the island. They do this to encourage you to embrace your vacation right from the moment you step on sand!
4. Make sure to carry Reef-safe sunscreen
Please carry and wear only reef-safe sunscreen. Normal sunscreen contains oxybenzone or octinoxate that are harmful to coral reefs. Coral reefs are critical to sustaining the marine ecosystem in the Maldives. After all, one of the reasons you are traveling there is to see the stunning corals and fish, right? Please do your part and do not use anything other than reef-safe sunscreen.
5. Be aware of drone regulations and limitations
If you plan on using your drone in the Maldives, note that you will need to register your drone and get special authorization from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and CAA. In addition, hotels will have their own rules and requirements for flying a drone on their island. In fact, a lot of high-end hotels do not allow flying a drone in the water villas to maintain privacy of their guests. So, make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules you will need to abide by to fly a drone.
As a matter of fact, I would recommend forgoing a drone, given the strict baggage allowance. Instead, opt for a selfie stick and camera stand to get those up-from-above shots.
6. Buying things at the Male airport or Male
If you end up forgetting something in your packing, do not fret. You can buy items in the Male airport as well as in stores at your resort. I experienced a moment of panic when I forgot my sunglasses but was able to purchase a sweet pair of Raybans at the Male airport. The price of those sunglasses was comparable to what you’d pay at a department store in the US.
7. Weather in Maldives
The weather in Maldives is one of two: dry or wet. Read on below to know more about it. While you will mostly find it to be sunny and warm, bursts of rain are not uncommon. Make sure to carry appropriate clothing if you get caught in a tropical downpour. Also, note that this may happen at any time and season. In addition, the weather can change quickly during the span of a day.
8. Dressing style in the Maldives
The dressing style is very relaxed in the Maldives. Pack as you would for a typical beach destination. So, think flowy dresses, light breathable fabrics. Some resorts may require formal attire at their upscale restaurants. But, for the most part, you can expect beach casual dressing.
The only difference to note is Male. Be prepared to dress conservatively in Male when you take your transfer from the international flight to a seaplane or speedboat. More on that below.
Maldives Packing list: The Essentials
Here are the essential items you must carry on your Maldives trip!
1. Reef-safe Sunscreen
Reef-safe sunscreen should absolutely be at the top of your Maldives packing list! The best one I’ve used is this one. I can’t repeat this enough, but always use reef-safe sunscreen at locations where coral reefs grow.
2. Swimsuit
This one is an obvious one, but when you are in the Maldives, you gotta pack a couple (or 10!) of swimsuits, right? Go for blue for stunning photos, or red for a pop of color.
This one from Amazon is perfect for a beach destination while also providing adequate coverage.
My favorite color for swimsuits is blue or aqua. They make for stunning photos with the blue waters or sky as your backdrop.
3. 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.
However, as noted above, check with your hotel in advance if they offer snorkeling gear for their guests for free.
If however, your hotel does not have equipment to rent, check out this snorkel I bought one a couple of years ago. And I have used it in every one of my snorkeling trips since then!
4. Medicines for tropical locations
Tropical destinations come with their fair share of unfortunate mishaps. So, carry antibiotic ointments and bug bite pain relievers as these can really help save your vacation.
5. 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 Maldivian sun. If you have prescription sunglasses, do not forget them!
6. Hair tie
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 it tends to float around your head. I would highly recommend tying those luscious locks of yours into a ponytail or a bun. Then, you can channel your inner mermaid/merman carefree.
This set of hair ties is fantastic for all types and lengths of hair (including for children).
7. 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.
8. Rash guard shirt
Over time, I have come to realize the true value of rash guards. 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.
9. Motion sickness medicine
Are you planning to take a boat ride? Or maybe a snorkeling or diving expedition? Or are you looking to go sailing at sunset? Do yourself a favor and carry motion sickness medicines.
Most people generally don’t foresee the importance of these meds until they are stuck hurling over the back of their boat. If the thought of your boat crashing and bumping over waves make you queasy, take them before you start from ashore.
10. Sandals
Sandals are great Maldivian accessories for all ages and genders. They are acceptable to be worn anywhere and keep you looking stylish but beach ready. However, make sure to check if your resort is footwear-free policy first!
11. Flip flops
This one should definitely be on your Maldives packing list. Flip flops go hand-in-hand with sandals and are great for lounging by the pool or the beach. Even while walking around your resort island, you will find yourself reaching for them often.
This pair of flip flops is equal parts fun and functional.
12. A book or Kindle
A good book is always on my list. I prefer a physical book, but a Kindle is equally engaging. I had the pleasure of lazing by my water villa’s plunge pool, sipping a glass of wine and getting some reading done. Sigh… that was memorable.
If a Kindle is more your vibe, I highly recommend this version of the electronic book. Its display is on point, and the battery life is long enough for plenty of days of reading under the sun.
13. GoPro or underwater camera
If you expect to spend time underwater in the Maldives (and you absolutely should!), take a GoPro or an underwater camera. The Maldives has unrivalled marine life. And the cool thing is, your resort will probably have some house reef easily accessible by guests. Throw on your swimsuit, head to the beach or down the steps from your water villa and start clicking away!
We use this GoPro for all our trips where snorkeling is involved! We have had the most fun looking at the photos and videos after our trips.
14. Camera stand
A camera stand is especially important if you are traveling solo. Or if you are traveling as a couple and want photos together but don’t want to ask for random strangers. I personally think a camera stand is super handy if you are a photography or videography enthusiast.
This one is a perfect add-on to your luggage and it’s fairly light-weight.
15. Packing cubes
One of the best ways to stay organized and maximize space in your luggage is to invest in packing cubes. They help remove the excess air from your luggage and keep your belongings organized.
Check out these ones that are perfect for your baggage.
16. Lip balm with SPF
Get some lip balm with SPF. Your lips can get sunburnt too. And that would make for a very unpleasant experience.
So, invest in these fantastic ones.
17. 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. In the Maldives, your skin will be parched from the salty waters and strong sun. So, you will be glad to have a nourishing moisturizer to provide respite to your largest organ.
18. 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 on vacation time as sunburnt skin. But these things do happen.
Spare yourself the pain and carry this nourishing aloe gel that can offer your sunburnt skin some relief should you need it.
19. Razor
Don’t forget to pack a razor, such as this one. It’s one of those things that are easy to miss, and you’re left kicking yourself for forgetting it.
20. Optional: Light rain jacket
Now, this item is more of a nice to have. If getting wet in tropical rain does not appeal to you, carry a light rain jacket. Note that the temperature will not dip even during rains, so, your rain jacket should be light and unlayered.
Maldives Packing List for Women
These are the most important (and stylish ;)) items women should carry to Maldives.
1. Flowy dresses
No beach vacation is complete without some flowy, lightweight dresses! They transition well from day to night, resort to restaurants and look beautiful.
2. A clutch bag
Most evenings in the Maldives will be spent going for a nice dinner on your island. Hence, you should carry a clutch bag (or a small evening bag) as your dinner outfit accessory.
3. A straw bag
If a clutch bag is too formal for you, or you want some variety, get a straw or raffia bag. These nags are always in trend and pull together a beach look perfectly.
Bonus points if you can combine the straw bag and clutch bag trends to carry a straw clutch bag! That will be the only dinner bag you will need in the Maldives.
4. Nice white shorts
Shorts are a must on your Maldives packing list. Be it going for breakfast, lunch or a day out sailing, you will find yourself reaching for those often. They are also useful for doubling as a beach coverup. Pack a pair of white shorts and show off your tan!
5. Makeup and skincare
Makeup 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.
6. 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.
7. Hair accessories
I love carrying big, bold hair accessories on my beach vacations to have an extra element of drama on my photos. My favorite accessories are medium to big-sized bows and hair bands.
8. IG worthy sun hat
You know those wide-brim sunhats that continue to splash up on your IG? Pack one and look extra fabulous on your Maldives getaway!
Maldives Packing List for Men
These are the most important items men should carry to Maldives.
1. Shorts
Shorts are super versatile for men as well. Not only can you go around the island or sailing in them, but also to restaurants. With regards to the color, white is always a safe bet. Except for those pesky times you are worried about dirt. In that case, khaki shorts are your friend.
2. Cotton or Linen shirts
To put together an easy outfit, pair the shorts with a linen or cotton t-shirt, and you will be ready for any event.
3. Khaki pants
Some resorts have high-end restaurants that may require formal-ish attire. When we were in Constance Halaveli, the Jing restaurant required guests to wear semi-formals. For that reason, your best bet would be to carry khaki pants in a breathable fabric.
4. Shaving kit essentials
Sport a well-groomed beard or a clean-shaven face for your vacation.
5. Slip-on shoes
The pair of shoes my husband swears by for travel are slip-ons. They are easily removed at the airport (in US airports you are required to remove your shoes). Additionally, they are easy to get in-and-out of at your hotel. They also double as semi-formal attire when you go for a fancy dinner.
You might be tempted to take your drone but bear in mind that most resorts do not allow a drone on the island. This is to protect the privacy of their guests.
Maldives Packing List for kids
Here are the items most useful and necessary for the kiddos.
1. Flotation 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.
2. Kids snorkel mask
If you plan on doing 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 one.
3. Water shoes
While I’d recommend water shoes for everyone, this is especially true for kids. The snorkeling spots in the Maldives can often be rocky that the little ones might accidentally hit or rub against. Water shoes will protect their tiny feet against these mishaps.
4. 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.
5. 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.
Maldives Packing List: Other essential items
There are some additional travel essentials that should be a part of all travel trips. Check out my other article on carry-on items you should carry to get a complete picture of these essentials.
- Passport
- Travel docs
- Cash – necessary for tipping
- Chargers for laptop, tablet, phone and watch
- Toiletries
- Travel insurance
- Headphones
- Vaccine records, as needed
What to wear in Male
In your Maldives travels, you will need to fly into the capital city of Male. From there, you will need to take a seaplane or speedboat transfer to your hotel island. Now, you can wear anything you feel comfortable in at your hotel island, but you need to be aware of what should be worn in the Male airport during your transit.
- Flowy outfits covering arms and knees
- Long pants or leggings
- Full length jeans without rips or holes
- Half sleeve or full sleeve shirt
- Avoid tight and bulky clothing as it is quite warm
Maldives Packing List: Things to avoid
These are some items you should not carry to maximize your space and weight allowance for your luggage.
1. Lots of jewelry
Don’t carry too much jewelry to tropical beach destinations. First of all, you don’t need it. Secondly, they tend to stick to your skin, catch up with a sweat and just be unpleasant after a while.
2. High heels
Avoid high heels in the Maldives. As mentioned earlier, the dressing style there is casual. And your feet will thank you for not subjecting them to heels! If you desire a heigh boost, opt for a medium pair of block heels instead.
3. Warm clothing
Unlike some beach destinations like Hawaii that can experience cold weather, the Maldives are always warm. Skip the warm clothing to avoid adding unnecessary bulk to your baggage.
4. Tight clothing
The Maldives weather is hot and sticky for the most part. Do not carry tight clothing with you. For example, skip the skinny jeans and opt for a pair of straight or wide leg jeans instead. Better yet, go for lightweight linen pants, or dresses.
5. Drone
As mentioned above you may want to avoid carrying a drone. Read the fine print of your hotel properly. Most 4+ star properties do not allow flying a drone in their premises to protect the privacy of their guests. You will also need to get special permits from the government.
6. Alcohol
Since the Maldives is a Muslim country, importing alcohol is prohibited. You can drink alcohol in the resorts but not in places like Male with a predominantly local Muslim population.
7. Pork items
Similar to alcohol, pork products are also prohibited. Note that most resort will have pork products in their culinary offerings, but those items will be clearly marked with a sign.
8. Religious items
Religious items are another prohibited group of products not allowed in the Maldives.
9. Regular towel
You should not carry a regular towel with you. Or any towel for that matter. You will get towels from your hotel. If you must have one, carry a quick-dry, sand-resistant towel instead.
When to visit the Maldives
The best time for visiting the Maldives is from November to early March. If possible, avoid the Christmas to New Years’ season. That time is very busy and there are high chances of the on-site hotel restaurants being fully booked. The beach at your hotel will also be busier. And not to mention it’ll be more expensive.
How long should you stay in the Maldives?
About 5-7 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in the Maldives. That way, you will get plenty of time to settle down, get your bearings and start your ultimate relaxing vacation. Take your time to enjoy your room or villa. Soak in the pool or go check out the reefs (if your lagoon has any). Then, around days 3-5, you can explore the island, plan some activities and still have some downtime.
Also, I would recommend against changing villas during your stay as it can be a waste of time. When I am on vacation, I like to maximize my time chilling or experiencing something new. Changing hotel rooms in between can be time-consuming. With the difference between check-out and check-in timings of your hotel, you may need to plan the entire day around this. So, best to avoid it and pick a room that best works for your needs.
If you are hopping islands, I would add a day for travel, and at least a couple of days at each island to get the best experience.
Where to stay in the Maldives
If you are visiting the Maldives for a special occasion and it fits your budget, I would recommend staying in a water villa. Even if it’s for a few days. The Maldives offers world-class hotels and if you’ve been waiting to splurge with loved ones for a dream vacation, this is it.
If you are on a budget though, fret not. There are still plenty of hotel options for you to choose from. My biggest tip would be to get a hotel close to the island of male. The further out it is, the more expensive it will get for you to reach the island, after factoring in the seaplane or boat transfer.
Luxury hotel: Soneva Jani, Noonu
Mid-range: Sun Island Resort and Spa, Maamigili
Free Printable Maldives Packing List
Here’s your free printable Packing List for the Maldives that I promised earlier! Print it and use it as a checklist as you pack your luggage. Bon voyage!
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