What to Pack for Hawaii: a Guide to Stress-free Travel

Clothing (Lightweight & Breathable):

• 1 pair of lightweight pants or capris (quick-dry, versatile for hiking/casual) I love the MoFiz brand cargo pants and capris. They are lightweight and dry quickly. https://amzn.to/4bLSXFg

• 1-2 sleeveless shirts. I find the Koscacy sleeveless shirts to be a great value, and they are lightweight and comfortable. https://amzn.to/4bWOW1J

• 2 breezy dresses or linen shirts for dinners. A larger linen shirt can double as a swim cover-up.

• 2 swimsuits (one is sufficient if you have access to a dryer) and a lightweight cover-up. La Blanca has a great line of light, airy, and lovely cotton cover-ups. https://amzn.to/4sS9G0i

• 1 light cardigan or long-sleeve shirt for air-conditioned restaurants and chilly evenings.

• A pair of comfortable, lightweight shorts in a neutral color.

  Footwear:

  • Crocs Women's Kadee II Sandals (lightweight, cushioned, sturdy, waterproof). https://amzn.to/4byVphZ

  • Comfortable walking shoes (closed-toe athletic sandals or sneakers). If you wear them on the plane, you’ll save luggage space.

  • Water shoes for rocky beaches. These can be purchased at ABC stores in Hawaii, or buy here: https://amzn.to/4uHvBJt

• Medication & Health:

  • Pill organizer: Essential for organizing daily supplements and prescriptions to save luggage space. I love the pouch-style pill organizer bags offered Serfeymi. https://amzn.to/4rOQKOZ The bags take up very little space. Pack a few essential over-the-counter drugs. Medicines like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are much more expensive in Hawaii than on the mainland.

  • Prescription medication (in original bottles), small first-aid kit, and sunscreen. Make sure to pack enough of your prescription medications. There are many situations in which Hawaii doesn’t accept prescriptions from out-of-state physicians.

• Gear & Essentials:

  • Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

  • Small daypack for excursions. Maelelani’s is a Kauai-made brand of tote bags, purses, and other items. The company uses gorgeous fabrics, and prices are reasonable. About | Kaua'i | Mailelani's

  • Reusable water bottle.

  • Power bank for phone.

  • Light rain jacket. It rains frequently (though often in very short bursts) in Hawaii, and you'll want a jacket with a hood. Kuhl and Columbia brands have great options, such as: https://amzn.to/4t0GKDr