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Packing for Hawaii does not have to be complicated. The key is bringing lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, beach essentials, sun protection, and a few practical items that will make your trip easier. This guide will help you decide what to pack without bringing more than you need.
Hawaii Must-Pack Essentials
Use this checklist as a starting point, then adjust it based on the island you are visiting, the activities you have planned, and how long you will be staying.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Sunscreen is one of the most important things to pack for Hawaii because you will probably spend much more time outdoors than you normally do at home. Hawaii prohibits the sale and distribution of sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate without a prescription because these ingredients may harm coral reefs and marine life. Some protected areas and tours may have even stricter sunscreen rules. I recommend bringing a mineral sunscreen made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide so you are prepared for beach days, snorkeling, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities.
Learn more about Hawaii’s sunscreen law. https://data.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/sessionlaws/Years/SLH2018/SLH2018_Act104.pdf
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
This mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide rather than oxybenzone or octinoxate. I like that it provides broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection, is water resistant, and comes in a two-pack that is useful for a Hawaii vacation.
Best for: Beach days, snorkeling, sightseeing, sensitive skin, and travelers looking for a mineral sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.
Waterproof Phone Pouch
A waterproof phone pouch is useful for beach days, boat tours, kayaking, waterfalls, and other activities where your phone may get wet or covered in sand. It lets you keep your phone nearby for photos, directions, and emergencies without worrying as much about water damage. I recommend choosing one that also has a secure neck strap and still lets you use the touchscreen through the pouch.
Pelican Marine Waterproof Phone Pouch
This floating waterproof phone pouch is a good option for beach days, kayaking, boat tours, waterfalls, and other activities where your phone may be exposed to water or sand. I like that it has an IP68 waterproof rating, a detachable lanyard, and a floating design that can make the phone easier to retrieve if it is dropped in the water. The two-pack is also convenient for couples or families traveling together.
Best for: Beach days, boat tours, kayaking, waterfalls, and couples or families who want two pouches.
Foldable Travel Duffel Bag
A foldable travel duffel bag is useful for bringing home souvenirs, carrying extra items during your trip, or using as a lightweight backup bag when your suitcase is full. It folds down small when you are not using it, so it does not take up much room in your luggage. I recommend choosing one that is lightweight, water resistant, and large enough to use as an overnight bag or carry-on.
LYF 22-Inch Foldable Travel Duffel Bag
I personally use this foldable duffel bag on all of my trips. I pack it folded inside my suitcase, then use it for souvenirs, extra clothes, or anything that will not fit in my luggage on the way home. I like that it is lightweight, water resistant, and sized to work as a carry-on for many airlines. It also does not take up much space when folded. Be sure to check your airline’s carry-on size limits before your trip.
Best for: Souvenirs, extra clothing, overflow luggage, weekend trips, and travelers who want a lightweight backup carry-on.
Insulated Water Bottle
Bringing a reusable insulated water bottle makes it easier to stay hydrated while exploring Hawaii’s beaches, hiking trails, attractions, and outdoor activities. An insulated bottle helps keep your water cold in Hawaii’s warm weather and can be refilled throughout the day. I recommend choosing one that is leak resistant, easy to carry, and fits in a backpack side pocket or vehicle cup holder.
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
I personally use this Owala water bottle and love how easy it is to carry while traveling. The 24-ounce size fits in most backpack side pockets and many vehicle cup holders. I also like the FreeSip lid because you can drink through the built-in straw or tilt the bottle back to sip from the larger opening. The insulated stainless steel design helps keep water cold throughout the day.
Best for: Beach days, hiking, sightseeing, road trips, and travelers who want a reusable bottle that fits easily in most backpack side pockets.
Binoculars
Binoculars can be useful for whale watching, boat tours, scenic overlooks, bird watching, and spotting wildlife from a distance. They can help you see details that may be difficult to notice from the shore or from a tour boat. I recommend choosing a pair that provides a clear view without being too heavy or bulky to carry during your trip.
Binoteck 10×42 Binoculars
These binoculars are a good option for whale watching, boat tours, bird watching, and enjoying Hawaii’s scenic views from a distance. I like that they provide a clear, close-up view while still being lightweight enough to carry during sightseeing and excursions. They also come with a carrying bag, which makes them easier to pack and protect while traveling.
Best for: Whale watching, boat tours, bird watching, scenic overlooks, wildlife viewing, and travelers who want lightweight binoculars for Hawaii activities.