What to Bring to Hawaii

So you’ve booked your Hawaii accommodation and you’re ready for days and days of rest and relaxation amidst tropical flowers and golden sands. The island-style life is simple and packing for Hawaii doesn’t have to be complicated. There are a few basic items every islander needs; the rest is just extra. Here’s a list of a few ‘must haves’ that should make their way into your suitcase and answer your question of what to bring to Hawaii.

Sun Protection
It’s crucial in Hawaii’s strong tropical climate. Year round, the sun can be downright dangerous, especially to skin not used to exposure. Even those that have dark complexion should take precautions while enjoying Hawaii’s outdoors. A good rule of thumb is to avoid direct sun when it’s at its height (generally 11am – 2pm). No matter what time of day, always have sunscreen and sun protective clothing when out exploring in the daytime.

Sunscreen
Get a good waterproof variety with plenty of SPF so that you can swim or perspire and not have to reapply as often. Don’t forget that you can even get sun exposure as you’re driving.

Sun Protective Clothing
Hat – A good hat that can still stay on through the tropical tradewinds is important.  It not only shields your eyes from the sun, it protects your face and neck from exposure as well as the top of your head.
Shades – Sunglasses also are critical for protecting your eyes from UV rays, especially when your near the reflection of the water. Polarized lens offer incredible views through Hawaii’s blue sea.
Cover Up – Some kind of cover up clothing can be an excellent sun protective option if you’re enjoying the beach but need to shield yourself from sun. You can bring something from home with you or check out the multitude of beautiful Hawaiian style sarongs available on the island. They can serve as sun protection, a shawl when the air cools and can be worn wrapped around your waist by both men and women.

Sunglasses
Don’t forget, your eyes need protecion from the sun too!

Swimsuit
Actually, you’ll probably want more than one swimsuit, since you’ll be spending a lot of time at the beach. Make sure you have a good fitting swimsuit will stay on in the waves!

Shoes
You’ll see locals wearing ’slippahs’ year round. The equivalent of what may be referred to as ‘flip flops’, these shoes come off and on easily, which is important in Hawaii, as it is a Hawaiian custom to remove your shoes before entering a home. These slippers can be bought at many grocery stores in very inexpensive forms but if you’ve got your favorite pair already broken in from home, bring those. Nothing worse than getting a blister from breaking in a new pair of shoes.
Walking Shoes – The same goes for walking shoes. If you’ve got a pair that you’re comfortable in, bring them.  No need letting a new blister reduce you to limping through your vacation. There is plenty of walking to be done in Hawaii, either shopping through the city streets or hiking some remote trail. Bring shoes that support your explorations!

Camera
You’re going to want to capture some memories either through a still camera or video camera. Today’s technology makes it easy to transport a camera along on any expedition. Just don’t forget to bring your battery charger.

Surfboard
If you’re a serious surfer and are coming to catch waves, you probably don’t need to be reminded to bring your board. For those seeking to learn, there are plenty of surf schools and water activity companies that rent out boards for beginners. If you’re a casual water person don’t bother bringing gear. Many Hawaiian vacation homes will even have extra boogie boards, snorkel gear and other water toys right at your place. What you don’t find at your accommodation can easily be rented for a nominal fee.

With the list above, you can see how a person could literally come to Hawaii with a small backpack and be just fine. Though most won’t be inspired to pack quite that lightly, don’t forget that if you forget something, you can buy it once you settle in. Do be prepared to pay a little extra, though, as most everything in the islands has to be shipped over.

When you’re packing for your Hawaii vacation, you can bring as much as you want. But keep in mind that you won’t need much in the islands and it’s a lot easier to kick up your feet and take a load off when you’re traveling light. Aloha!