Hawaii Packing Checklist: What To Bring To Hawaii

Hawaii Packing Checklist: What To Bring To Hawaii

Planning a trip to paradise? Whether you're heading to the lush mountains of Kauaʻi, the golden beaches of Maui, the vibrant shores of Oʻahu, or the volcanic wonders of the Big Island, packing the right items will ensure a smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable Hawaii vacation.

This detailed Hawaii packing checklist covers everything you'll need, from tropical beach days to waterfall hikes, so you don't forget a thing. Let's dive into your Hawaii vacation packing essentials!

Table of Contents

Hawaii's Climate

Essential Travel Documents

Before you think about swimsuits and sandals, make sure your travel documents are in order. Hawaii is part of the United States, so domestic travelers don't need a , but international visitors do.

Checklist:

Government-issued Real-ID (or passport for non-U.S. travelers) Note: Due to new federal regulations, may be required on your flight to Hawaii. A passport can be used for domestic flights if you do not possess a real-id.

Boarding passes and flight confirmations

Travel insurance (recommended, especially for adventure travelers)

Hotel, car rental, and tour booking confirmations

Emergency contact list and copies of your travel plans

Credit/debit cards with travel alerts enabled

Health insurance card and any COVID-related documents

Pro Tip: Scan or photograph all documents and store them in your email or cloud for backup.

Clothing for Hawaii's Climate

Hawaii's weather is warm and tropical year-round, but it can vary between islands and elevations. Pack light, breathable clothing, but don't forget a few layers for cooler moments.

Daily Wear:

Lightweight T-shirts and tanks

Shorts, skirts, and sundresses

Casual tops and loose pants

Swim cover-up or sarong

Underwear and sleepwear

For Cooler Conditions:

Light jacket or hoodie for evenings

Long pants or jeans (especially for higher elevations)

Rain jacket or poncho for sudden downpours

Beanie or lightweight gloves (for early morning summit trips like Haleakalā)

Island Tip: Hawaii style is casual. "Aloha wear," like Hawaiian shirts and comfortable sandals, are welcome at most restaurants and events.

Footwear: What to Bring

Footwear can make or break your comfort when exploring Hawaii's diverse terrain. From beach lounging to lava field hikes, pack for versatility.

Must-have footwear:

Flip-flops/slippers: Ideal for daily casual wear at the beach, pool, or town.

Water shoes: Great for rocky beaches, waterfalls, and snorkeling entries.

Hiking shoes or trail runners: Necessary if you plan to , , or coastal trails.

Supportive sandals: Useful for light hikes or walking tours.

Beach and Swim Essentials

Expect to spend a considerable amount of time near or in the water. Having the right gear makes your beach days easier and safer.

Beach gear checklist:

Multiple swimsuits (so one can dry while you wear another)

(oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned)

Sunglasses with UV protection

Wide-brimmed hat or cap

Quick-dry beach towel

Waterproof bag for wet clothes

Snorkel set (optional—gear rentals are easy to find)

Waterproof phone pouch

Reusable water bottle

Insulated cooler bag for beach snacks

Beach mat or compact chair (many rental homes provide these)

Outdoor Adventure Gear

Hawaii is a playground for adventurers. From snorkeling and surfing to ziplining and waterfall hikes, you'll want to be well prepared.

Adventure musts:

Daypack or backpack for hikes

Reusable hydration bladder or water bottle

Headlamp or flashlight (for sunrise or sunset hikes)

Rash guard or swim shirt (helps with sunburn prevention)

Bug spray (especially for jungle trails or evening excursions)

Lightweight trekking poles (optional for longer hikes)

Compact first-aid kit

Binoculars for birdwatching or whale watching

Toiletries and Personal Items

Most major brands are available in Hawaii, but you may pay more—so bring what you can.

Packing list:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss

Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

Hairbrush or comb

Razor and shaving cream

Deodorant

Sunscreen and after-sun lotion (aloe)

Lip balm with SPF

Feminine products

Any prescription medications (bring extras just in case)

Motion sickness pills (especially for boat tours or windy roads)

Tip: Bring travel-size items if you're flying with carry-on only.

Tech and Travel Accessories

Modern travelers require a few essential tech tools to stay connected and capture memorable moments.

Essentials:

Smartphone and charger

Portable charger/power bank

Travel adapter (if coming from outside the U.S.)

Camera or GoPro (with waterproof housing if snorkeling/diving)

Memory cards and charging cables

E-reader or book

Travel headphones

Ziplock bags for organizing and protecting gadgets

Health and Safety Items

Hawaii is safe, but being prepared for minor issues will give you peace of mind.

Include:

Travel first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, tweezers)

Face masks (some businesses or transportation options may still require them)

Hand sanitizer and wipes

Allergy medications or EpiPen

Insurance cards and health documents

Pain relievers or anti-inflammatories

Rehydration tablets or electrolyte powders

Optional (But Useful) Extras

These aren't required—but can make your Hawaii trip even smoother.

Waterproof Bluetooth speaker

Travel laundry detergent

Packing cubes to stay organized

Snorkel vest for floatation

Collapsible, reusable shopping bag

Compact umbrella

Light blanket for flights or beach lounging

Local hiking or guidebook

What Not to Pack for Hawaii

Avoid overpacking by skipping items you won't need.

Leave behind:

Heavy jackets and sweaters

High heels or formal wear

Excessive jewelry or valuables

Non-reef-safe sunscreen

Beach umbrellas and chairs (most rentals and hotels provide these)

Towels (your hotel or vacation rental will likely supply them)

Packing Tips for Families with Kids

Traveling with little ones? Here's how to stay stress-free.

Extra clothes/swimsuits for kids

Snacks, formula, and baby food

Stroller or baby carrier

Swim diapers and sun hats

Child-safe sunscreen

Favorite toys or travel games

Emergency contact card in child's pocket or bag

Kid-friendly first-aid supplies

Downloaded shows or games for plane or downtime

Eco-Friendly Packing Tips

Hawaii's ecosystem is delicate and beautiful. Help protect it by packing with sustainability in mind.

Bring reusable water bottles, straws, and cutlery

Choose reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen

Pack a mesh bag for picking up beach trash

Avoid single-use plastics when possible

Leave nature untouched and respect wildlife

Support local farmers markets and eco-conscious brands

Frequently Asked Questions About Packing for Hawaii

What should I pack for a 7-day trip to Hawaii?

For a one-week Hawaii vacation, pack:

4–5 casual tops and 2–3 bottoms

2–3 swimsuits and 1–2 cover-ups

Lightweight jacket or sweater

Flip-flops, walking shoes, and water shoes

Undergarments, sleepwear, and toiletries

Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat

A small daypack for excursions

Travel documents, ID, and a reusable water bottle

Keep in mind Hawaii's casual vibe—you don't need a new outfit for each day. Most travelers do laundry at least once during their stay or re-wear outfits.

Do I need unique clothing for visiting volcanoes or higher elevations?

Yes. If you're visiting akalā National Park on Maui or on the Big Island, temperatures at the summit can drop significantly, especially before sunrise or after sunset. Bring:

A thermal or fleece layer

Lightweight gloves

Beanie or hat

Windbreaker or puffer jacket

Long pants and closed-toe shoes

These cooler climates contrast with the tropical lowlands, so pack accordingly for both.

Is it necessary to bring snorkel gear, or should I rent it?

It depends on your travel style and plans:

Bring your own if you prefer your mouthpiece, plan to snorkel for multiple days, or want to save money in the long term.

Renting is convenient if you're trying snorkeling for the first time or only planning one or two sessions. Many tour operators provide gear.

Either way, consider packing a defogging solution, mask-friendly sunscreen, and a dry bag for wet gear.

What type of sunscreen is allowed in Hawaii?

Hawaii has banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, as they are known to harm coral reefs. You'll need reef-safe sunscreen made with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Look for brands labeled:

"Reef-safe" or "reef-friendly"

Mineral or physical sunscreen

Free of harmful chemicals

Popular reef-safe sunscreen brands include Thinksport, Raw Elements, and Badger.

Do I need bug spray in Hawaii?

Yes, especially if you plan to:

Hike through forests or near waterfalls

Stay near wetlands or rural areas

Visit during the rainy season

Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in humid environments. Pack a DEET-free bug repellent if you prefer a natural option, or use picaridin-based sprays for stronger protection.

Are laundry facilities common in Hawaii?

Yes. Most hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts offer laundry services or have coin-operated washers and dryers available for guests.

Tip: Pack a few detergent pods or a travel-size bottle of detergent for easy use. This allows you to re-wear items and pack lighter overall.

What should I wear on a flight to Hawaii?

Comfort is key for the 5–10+ hour journey, depending on your departure city. Recommended attire includes:

Breathable, stretchy clothing (like joggers or leggings)

A light jacket or hoodie (airplanes can be cold)

Compression socks (to reduce swelling)

Slip-on shoes or sandals

Eye mask, neck pillow, and water bottle

You'll also want to carry reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit, and flip-flops in your carry-on if you plan to hit the beach right after landing.

Do I need to bring formalwear to Hawaii?

Typically, Hawaii's dress code is formal only if you plan to attend a formal event or dine at an upscale restaurant. In most cases, Hawaii has a laid-back dress code.

Acceptable alternatives include:

A collared aloha shirt and khakis for men

A sundress or maxi dress for women

Dressy sandals or closed-toe shoes (optional)

Unless you're attending a wedding, fancy dinner, or corporate event, leave the heels and ties at home.

How many pairs of shoes should I bring to Hawaii?

Generally, you'll want around three different pairs of shoes. Pack a pair of casual flip-flops or slides for the beach and pool, supportive sneakers or walking shoes for sightseeing and exploring the town, and sturdy, water-resistant hiking shoes for outdoor adventures, such as rainforest trails or lava rock coastlines.

Should I bring cash to Hawaii, or will a credit card be sufficient for my needs?

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the state of Hawaii. However, it's wise to carry a small amount of cash (around $100-$200) for:

Farmers markets

Local food trucks

Tips for valet, hotel staff, and guides

Small beach shops or shave ice stands

ATMs are easily accessible in towns and resorts, but some remote areas may not accept credit or debit cards.

Are reusable items, such as water bottles and shopping bags, necessary?

Yes. Hawaii encourages sustainability, and many businesses are eco-conscious. You'll need:

A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste

Reusable shopping bags—plastic bags are banned in many areas, and stores may charge for paper ones

Reusable straws or utensils for takeout meals and plastic straws are banned in the State of Hawaii

This not only supports the environment but it also helps you save money and travel responsibly.

Can I bring a drone or other camera gear to Hawaii?

Yes, but be sure to follow local regulations and federal FAA laws. Drones are prohibited in many state parks, including popular spots like:

ʻAkaka Falls State Park

If you're bringing camera gear, also pack:

Lens cloths (humidity and saltwater can fog lenses)

Waterproof case or dry bag

Extra SD cards and batteries

Is there anything I should pack that people often forget?

Yes, here are the top commonly forgotten (but super helpful) items:

Nail clippers or tweezers

Travel clothesline or laundry bag

Reusable straws or utensils

Mini flashlight or headlamp

Compact beach blanket or mat

Travel-size sewing kit

Medications for allergies or motion sickness

Copies of your ID and travel documents

Backup phone charger

Should I bring my beach towel, or does the hotel provide one?

Most hotels and resorts in Hawaii provide pool and beach towels for guest use. However, if you plan to:

Visit remote beaches

Go hiking and swimming at waterfalls

Take boat or snorkel tours

Then, packing a quick-dry microfiber towel is a smart idea. They're lightweight, compact, and dry fast, ideal for on-the-go adventures.

The Aloha State Awaits

With the proper preparation and this comprehensive packing checklist, your Hawaiian vacation will be a breeze. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, snorkeling with sea turtles, or relaxing under a palm tree, Hawaii offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Pack smart, travel light, and embrace the aloha spirit. For more travel inspiration, island guides, and insider tips, explore Week Hawaii and plan your next island adventure today!