Your flights and hotel are booked, the rental car is reserved, and your trip itinerary is coming along well. Next, finalize your Hawaii trip planning with a packing list full of the essential items you’ll need on your trip. The below 25 items make up the ultimate Hawaii packing list, giving you an idea of everything you’ll need depending on your interests.Â
As with any packing list, your best option is to pack the item you have. Then, save money by using what you have, as there is no need to buy completely new travel gear and clothes for one vacation. However, if you need to replace something or have been meaning to invest in new travel gear, there are suggestions below of the best options available in each category at the moment.
The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List
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Reef-Safe Sunscreen – All Good Sport Sunscreen
Several chemicals that have been commonly used in sun protection for years are toxic to coral reefs. The Hawaiian Islands are surrounded by coral reefs, which provide a habitat for wildlife and make the islands a top snorkeling destination. Put two and two together and it’s a bad idea to lather yourself up with a toxic substance to then go swimming by living organisms that can be killed by it.
To find out more about which chemicals may harm reefs, Savethereef.org has a webpage full of details on which chemicals to look out for. If you don’t have any reef-safe sunscreen at home, buy All Good Sport Sunscreen, a recommended option from Savethereef.
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 10
If there ever was a vacation to pack an action camera for, it’s a trip to Hawaii. Of course, you might say – ‘But wait, I’m not a surfer.’ Even if you aren’t an action sports enthusiast, with the recent advances in the new models of GoPro’s flagship camera, the action cameras double as a waterproof camera to a depth of 33 feet, making them the perfect underwater camera for getting footage while snorkeling along with capturing a hike through the state’s incredible landscape.
Check out the GoPro Hero 10 for the most advanced features, or save a little with an older model like the GoPro Hero 8.
GoPro Handle Float – The Handler by GoPro
If you drop your GoPro in the ocean, make sure it floats back up to the surface with The Handler by GoPro. this will ensure any slip-ups with the camera don’t result in a drop to the bottom. Beyond floating, the handle also works well for handheld walks with the GoPro, given its small size.
Waterproof Phone Case – Universal Waterproof Case
Not in need of an action camera but still looking to get some underwater photo and video? Consider a waterproof phone case, like the Universal Waterproof Case that will protect your cell phone and allow you to capture underwater shots of fish and aquatic life. While not as easy to carry as the GoPro, this will get the job done for someone on a budget.
Floating Strap for Phone – Luxebell Floating Strap
Phones sink just as quickly as action cameras, so make sure you have a floating strap if you plan on taking your phone into deeper water. Have that extra level of insurance against a drop while in or near the water with the Luxebell Floating Strap.
Travel Camera – Panasonic Lumix ZS200
While we are all carrying around pretty impressive cameras in our pockets daily, a good travel camera still has a place in the bag of any traveler looking to get great photos. While the lens and software of mobile phone cameras continue to improve, one area they struggle to compete in is sensor size. The sensor is the area that receives the light, which creates an image and sends it to a processor to generate the image file. The larger the sensor, the more light it receives, making for better quality in the final image. This concept is especially true for low-light situations like a luau.
Traveling with a larger DSLR can be a hassle. With the quality of compact digital cameras being very high these days, it’s worth investing in a travel camera that will last several years. The Panasonic Lumix ZS200 is one of the best models for travelers that want an all-in-one travel camera with a 20,1 MP 1″ sensor, 4K Video, and 24-360mm lens that allows you to zoom in on all the details.
Travel Umbrella – Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella
One of the most often overlooked items on a comprehensive Hawaii packing list is the travel umbrella. While the weather in Hawaii is relatively reliable and favorable when it comes to precipitation compared to other tropical locations, the lush green landscape needs rain to stay so vibrant, with the more popular winter months seeing the most rain, and being considered as the rainy season.
So keep a sturdy compact travel umbrella like the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella in your daypack room to avoid getting soaked with a sudden shower. A travel umbrella is a much better option than a light rain jacket, as it can also provide shade under direct sun.
Beach Canopy – Sun Ninja Pop Up Beach Tent
Traveling with a beach umbrella does not seem like the most practical packing choice, though it can be painful to spend money renting something you already own and have at home. Instead, consider a compact beach canopy like the Sun Ninja Pop Up Beach Tent that can fit in your checked baggage and provide you great way to find shade on any beach you visit in Hawaii. A beach canopy is a practical choice on beach days for those looking to explore the best beaches in the state, many of which are away from resorts and don’t provide umbrella rentals.
Waterproof Dry Bag – Earthpak Waterproof Dry Bag
Those planning on doing sea kayaking or hiking in and around the water should consider bringing along a waterproof dry bag like the Earthpak Waterproof Dry Bag, which also includes a waterproof case for your phone. These bags work well in the event of an accidental slip or drop by the ocean or getting caught in a sudden rainstorm.
Leave-In Hair Conditioner – Sun Bum Revitalizing 3 in 1 Leave-In Conditioner
A week of sun, sand, and saltwater can wreak havoc on your hair. Bring along a bottle of leave-in hair conditioner to help detangle, moisturize, and minimize any damage. Also, bring along a bottle of Sun Bum Revitalizing 3 in 1 Leave-In Conditioner to keep your hair without frizz, detangled, and in good condition throughout your trip.
Quick Dry Towels – Dock & Bay Beach Towel
Pack light when visiting the many world-class beaches in Hawaii with quick-dry microfiber towels that can easily fit in a backpack or beach bag. Towels like the Dock & Bay Beach Towel offer the perfect combination of classic style and minimalist packing, helping to save some space amongst the items on your Hawaii packing list.
Snorkel Set – The Palau Bag set by Cressi
If you plan on doing some snorkeling while in Hawaii, there are snorkel sets for rent, though they can cost from $5 to $10 a day to $40 for a week. While the cost of a good set from legendary Italian snorkel brand Cressi, one of the top names in snorkel gear, will only cost around $70-80. Those planning on doing more than a single trip’s worth of snorkeling should consider investing in a set like The Palau Bag set by Cressi.
Sand-Proof Beach Blanket – Wekapo Beach Blanket
The fine sand of Hawaii’s beaches feels incredible on your feet and is a pleasure until you find it in every crevice of your beach blanket. So bring along a sand-proof beach blanket like the Wekapo Beach Blanket giving plenty of room to spread out and not be covered in fine Hawaiian sand.
Solid Water Shoes – Astral Loyak Barefoot Shoes
Those looking for a more active trip by the water, possibly walking across rocks before swimming, should consider a solid and stylish water shoe. The Astral Loyak Barefoot Shoes, offered in both Men’s and Women’s models, are a perfect alternative to the old rubber sock-like water shoes that have been around for decades.
Aloe Vera Gel – Seven Minerals Aloe Vera Gel
Don’t let sunburn ruin your vacation. Come prepared with a bottle of aloe vera gel to soothe and moisturize your skin to limit discomfort while you should be relaxing. Any bottle that you have will do, and if you are out, consider a bottle with fewer chemicals and more natural ingredients like Seven Minerals Aloe Vera Gel.
Beach Bag – Hibala Large Woven Beach Bag
Whether you are going from your hotel room or your rental car onto the beach, you’ll need something to carry all of your beach accessories. The same backpack you used as a carry-on bag for your flight will work, or a tote bag that you have lying around. Those big blue Ikea bags work well, but if it’s time for you to invest in a new bag, consider the Hibala Large Woven Beach Bag.
Mosquito Repellent – Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
Mosquitos are prevalent in Hawaii, especially in the popular hiking areas near pools of water in the forests. Don’t travel without a good insect repellant, as the Hawaiian Islands are home to the disease-carrying Aedes Mosquito, making it a higher risk to go out unprotected and a vital consideration on your Hawaii packing list. Bring a repellent that is effective against the Aedes Mosquito, like the Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent.
Swimsuit Cover-Up – Yincro Women’s Chiffon Swimsuit Cover Up
For walks to the pool or beach and around your resort or walking around Waikiki, ladies should be sure to bring something comfortable to slip on over your swimwear. An affordable swimsuit cover-up like the Yincro Women’s Chiffon Swimsuit Cover Up will end up being what you wear for most of your vacation, with 43 different styles available.
Packing Cubes – Amazon Basics Four Piece Packing Cube Set
An essential for all types of travel, but especially useful for beach vacations where your luggage is full of plenty of small items and accessories. Packing cubes are an affordable way to keep your bags organized and allow you to sort through things with minimal effort. Again, there are plenty of options on the market, though the Amazon Basics Four Piece Packing Cube Set is quite durable and all you need at an affordable price.
Sun Hat – FURTALK Women’s Beach Straw Sun Hat
Give yourself an extra layer of protection from the sun by bringing along a hat. Whether it is a traditional baseball cap or a more oversized straw hat like the FURTALK Women’s Beach Straw Sun Hat, it will help ensure you don’t accidentally get a bad sunburn on your face.
Floral Shirt – PEGENO Men’s Short Sleeve Hawaiian Shirt
Hawaii is where floral shirts were made famous, and they continue to be a commonly accepted fashion for men. There are plenty of great places to pick up shirts when you arrive, but if you plan to step off the plane in style, you can’t go wrong with the PEGENO Men’s Short Sleeve Hawaiian Shirt. Skip the polo shirts and embrace the Aloha state vibes on your Hawaiian vacation with a classic floral shirt.
Floral Dress – FENSACE Women’s Scoopneck Sleeveless Midi Floral Dress
With light, airy dresses being an essential packing choice, bring along the bright floral dresses you might already have in your closet. Having a floral dress, especially to attend a luau or dinner out, is a perfect way to embrace the island vibe. If you need a new dress, check out the FENSACE Women’s Scoopneck Sleeveless Midi Floral Dress.
Rash Guard Shirt – Hurley’s Standard One and Only Rash Guard Shirt
If you are planning on surfing or just looking for an added layer of protection from the sun, a rash guard is a common sight at Hawaiian beaches and will help keep your skin protected in multiple ways. These are also a great option when snorkeling in places where the reef rises, like Hanauma Bay. There are plenty of options available in different styles, though you can’t go wrong with Hurley’s Standard One and Only Rash Guard Shirt.
Travel Insurance
For many, Hawaii is the exact location where travel insurance can come in handy. There is a higher risk of a medical emergency between the beaches and hiking. In addition, lost bags or delayed luggage can ruin a trip where you need many beach essentials. When trip cancellation or interruptions are continued risks, spending a little money for peace of mind on a travel insurance policy is a good decision.
Beach Vacation Packing List Basics
With the above listing items that you may not be aware of the value they can provide on vacation in Hawaii, the below are additional Hawaii essentials you should ensure are on your packing list to complete the ultimate Hawaii packing list.
- Sunglasses
- Sandals or Flip-flops
- Swim Wear
- Refillable Water Bottle
- Light Jacket or Light Sweater for Chilly Evenings
- Toiletries – Especially for Condo Stays
- Medication
- Charging Cords and Extra Batteries
- Backup Credit Cards
- Emergency Cash
