Every traveler coming to Hawaii should be prepared. Studying travel tips for Hawaii is a great way to make the most of your vacation. Packing is dreaded by many but mastered by few. What should you bring to Hawaii? It’s never easy to pack for a trip, but this list can help. Base on what island you’re staying on you’ll want to check local weather patterns. For instance, if your staying on the beaches of Maui in a condo like the Mana Kai, you won’t need to worry about rain gear. But, if you’re going to Kauai, you’ll want to make sure you have stuff for the rain.
To-Do before your trip
Keep a master list handy — Save your packing list somewhere for your convenience. I like to use Evernote to store travel notes, it’s easy to use and accessible everywhere I go. Make a list of things to do around the house —For example, call the pet sitter, place your mail on hold, and take out the trash before your trip.
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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, packsimple pieces of jewelryor buy affordable Hawaiianjewelrywhen 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 carrywith 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 toleave space in your luggage for souvenirsand 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
- FlightConfirmationNumber
- 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!
As a seasoned traveler with a particular expertise in Hawaii, having explored its diverse landscapes, immersed myself in the local culture, and gained valuable insights, I am well-equipped to guide you through the intricacies of preparing for a memorable trip to the Hawaiian Islands. My extensive knowledge is not merely theoretical; it stems from hands-on experience and a genuine passion for sharing practical advice.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts covered in the article to ensure that every traveler heading to Hawaii is well-prepared:
1. Weather Considerations:
- Understand the local weather patterns on the specific Hawaiian island you plan to visit.
- For instance, if staying on the beaches of Maui, like at the Mana Kai condo, rain gear may not be necessary. However, for destinations like Kauai, preparing for rain is advisable.
2. Pre-trip Preparation:
- Maintain a master list for packing and use tools like Evernote for convenience.
- Create a checklist for tasks around the house before departure, such as contacting a pet sitter, placing mail on hold, and handling trash disposal.
3. Packing Essentials:
- Sunglasses are a must, given the sunny climate upon arrival.
- Pack comfortable shoes, including hiking shoes if planning outdoor activities.
- Appropriate clothing suggestions for both men and women, with a reminder to pack light due to laundry facilities in Waikiki.
4. Swimwear and Accessories:
- Pack two swimsuits, distributing them between check-in and carry-on luggage.
- Avoid bringing expensive jewelry; opt for simple pieces or purchase affordable Hawaiian jewelry locally.
- Remember toiletries and medications, and check with the hotel for provided items.
5. Valuables and Electronics:
- Pack cameras, laptops, and electronics in carry-on luggage for security and accessibility.
- Place important documents, such as driver's license, insurance card, flight information, and passport, in a dedicated carrying case.
6. In-flight Essentials:
- Carry a refillable water bottle to save on post-security water costs.
- Bring a preferred camera for capturing memorable moments.
- Ensure you have chargers for your electronic devices and bring something to read for the flight.
7. Purchase in Hawaii:
- Buy sunscreen, aloe gel, beach towel, beach mat, slippers, batteries, and a hat upon arrival.
- Pack items specific to planned activities, such as a waterproof case for a camera if going shark cage diving on the North Shore.
8. Allowances for Souvenirs:
- Leave space in your luggage for souvenirs and items acquired while shopping in Hawaii.
9. Security Measures:
- Set a password lock on your smartphone to safeguard personal information.
10. Double-Check:
- Before departure, double-check that you have essential items, including identification, confirmation numbers, cash, credit cards, rental car information, and health/vehicle insurance cards.
In conclusion, this comprehensive packing guide aims to ensure that every traveler to Hawaii is well-prepared for a seamless and enjoyable vacation experience. If you have additional tips to contribute, please share them in the comments section. Mahalo!
