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The ultimate Hawaii packing list
Experienced traveler and globetrotter Sam Morrison outlines the packing list and tips that fueled an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure.
From kayaking to wining and dining, here are the gear and travel tips I’ve gathered from my trips in an ultimate Hawaii packing list.
The Hawaiian islands are full of fun, flowers, and flavor. Whether you’re escaping for a Honeymoon, a family reunion, or just changing from the hustle and bustle of home, your dream vacation awaits in Hawaii.
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Download your free Hawaii travel checklist
Before we dive in, let’s get right to it. Download your free must-have in Hawaii packing list for 2024.
What to consider before packing for Hawaii
Rich in culture and nature, Hawaii has been home to island lovers for centuries.
As you begin to imagine yourself among the palm trees and think about what to pack for Hawaii, consider the following question: what kind of visitor do you want to be? The adventurer? The romantic? The surfer?
Here are important things to consider as you pull your Hawaii packing list together.
Hawaii’s climate during your trip
Hawaii hosts a pretty consistent climate, with really only two “seasons”, kau and ho’oilo.
Kau is the “summer,” from May to October, with an average temperature of 85°F/29.4°C during the day at sea level.
Ho’oilo, “winter,” (a very relative term, I have to say) is from November to April with a daily average temperature of 78°F/25.6°C. So, still balmy.
Keep in mind: The lands of Hawaii don’t come from cloudless skies. Due to its location, rain tends to fall on the northeastern side of the islands, creating those lush green mountains that have been teasing from your mobile phone’s home screen for the last six months.
The “wet months” are from November to March. Year round it’s best to pack a rain jacket, but for the wet season, it’s a must.
The good news: In general, the rain tends to stay inland and off of the beach. If the rain does come close enough to kiss the sand, it passes by quickly and is refreshing!
Not as great: Strong storms do pass by during the wet season. We had to leave an island a day early due to strong weather warnings and the possibility of not having a flight out the following day to continue island hopping.
This is, of course, an extreme situation and not everyday weather. Though, it’s certainly something to consider when you’re planning your trip to Hawaii.
That’s why I like to make sure I arrive with communication essentials covered. It gives peace of mind and is there for you in case of an emergency.
I recommend this travel guide for Hawaii for more on weather, climate, and helpful travel information. Preparation is the best cure.
The silver lining? The rainfall is what creates Hawaii’s infamous rainbows! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the color beyond the fog.
The activities you’ll be doing
Things to consider for water activities
Visiting Hawaii opens the door to water sports, beautiful beach days, and Pacific Ocean bliss. Make sure you have your bag packed with swimwear, beach essentials, and protective sun care to take it all in!
Fun fact: The more coral, the clearer the water. Did you know a forcefield of coral reefs surrounds the Hawaiian islands, protecting the coastline from all the sediment those famous waves can stir up?
Whether you’re the sun tanner, the surfer, or the landlubber, the range of beaches for your perfect beach day is abundant. The list is almost as endless as Hawaii’s 5-star pools, bars, and resorts.
Sam’s travel tip: If you’re set on seeing some tropical fish or swimming with a sea turtle, be sure to snorkel Manta Ray Village. You can pack your own snorkeling gear, but I recommend renting it when there.
I also recommend surfing the North Shore, kayaking out to the Mokulua Islands, paddleboarding the Maui shores, or treating yourself to some of the best diving scenes in the world!
For that you’ll need your bathing suit, sunscreen, and beach bag. Pack a snack for the kayak trip, you’ll want it!
Things to consider for land activities
Hawaii is home to eight National Parks, hundreds of trails, the world’s largest volcano, and a range of terrain to explore.
For the adventurer, I highly recommend getting on some hiking trails. One of my favorites is the Lanikai Pillbox Hike, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, on Oahu. The views are spectacular.
Put a pair of hiking boots or trail shoes on your packing list if you’re in!
For the more casual explorer, or those looking for family-friendly activities, I recommend checking out some of Hawaii’s famous pineapple plantations, fresh food markets, and coffee farm tours.
These types of outings ask for comfortable shoes, light and breathable clothing, and sunglasses.
Want to eat your trip? Between Hawaii’s lush natural resources and large international influence, an incredible food scene has grown throughout the islands and is absolutely worth indulging in.
You’ll need to adhere to resort wear for fine dining, though otherwise in general casual attire is widely accepted.
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Hawaii travel essentials
Before you set foot on the volcanic and idyllic landscapes of Hawaii, make sure you have your essentials with you.
From sandals and sunscreen to electronics and travel documents, here’s all you need to land prepared.
Travel documents
Have you ever put something important in such a special place that you forgot where you put it?
Same. I recommend you put all of your travel essentials in a safe and secure location—and note that place down on your phone! What’s the important stuff?
- Passport
- Valid photo ID
- Boarding pass
- Cash and cards
- Travel insurance / medical insurance card
- Medical prescriptions
I’ve found it’s best to download your boarding pass before you go. For financials, bring the card you know works and the one you use for fashion emergencies too.
Be sure to notify your bank and card company that you’re traveling.
The Hawaiian islands are a US territory. If you are a US native or citizen you are traveling within your home country. Besides the “out of this world” feeling, that is, of course.
For non-residents of the US, be sure to reference what to pack for international travel to make sure you have all of your Hawaii travel essentials.
It’s a good idea to travel with enough US dollars in cash to get you from A to B if you get in a bind.
You never know when the card machine will be down, the restaurant only accepts cash, or whatever else fate may want to give you that day.
I recommend having around $100 on you for safe measure. Even better if you have smaller bills handy for tips.
Packing list for Hawaii: Essential electronics
Heading to Hawaii to tune in and tune out? Perfect. Need to stay connected? Totally get it. These days, a packing list just isn’t quite complete without the necessary electronics.
Here’s a quick list to keep you equipped and connected for your Hawaii vacation.
- Universal power adapter
- Portable charger
- eSIM card
- Flashlight
- GoPro
- Headphones
Hawaii uses the same electricity sockets as the mainland of the United States. So, depending on where your plugs are from, adapt accordingly.
I also recommend a portable charger for lengthening your adventure. Go on that hike and lose track of time. Lay on the beach without a worry.
A portable charger will help you, and your electronics, last longer.
An eSIM card is one of my latest packing essentials.
I can’t tell you how many times in my international life I spent the last 15 minutes of a flight scrummaging for some device to open the side of my phone to change my SIM card or was worried about WiFi when landing at a new airport.
Remember, you’ve got the whole flight and as much time as you want to go airplane mode on the beach.
There’s no need to go without connection. I recommend this Hawaii eSIM option. Set yourself up for ease and peace of mind upon landing and be ready to connect as soon as you touch down.
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Detroit native, foothills and lakes of North Carolina raised, Barcelona-based writer and creator. Sam lives and loves by the phrase: words create worlds. An international lifestyle matched with a background in psychology, business, and creative writing has allowed Sam to create content for a range of artists, entrepreneurs, and fashion and lifestyle brands across the globe. Sam's an avid water sports athlete with a passion for fashion, well-being, and adventure.
