You’ve finally booked that dream trip to Hawaii! Now you have to worry about fitting everything that you need for paradise inside one (or two or three) suitcases.

We know you can always grab an item or two that you forgot when you arrive, but who wants to spend time hunting down sunscreen when you could be catching a wave or sipping a cocktail on the beach?

Here you will find the ultimate packing list for Hawaii whether you’re going on your romantic Hawaii honeymoon or a fun trip with friends.

What to pack for Hawaii

No matter how long your trip to Hawaii is, you want to make sure that you have everything that you need. The first step to easy packing is having quality luggage and bags to store your belongings.

As for specific items to pack, your needs will vary depending on the duration of your trip.

What should I pack for a week in Hawaii?

For a week in Hawaii, make sure that you have all of the basic essentials that will cover 7 whole days of fun in the sun!

This of course includes sunscreen, a great beach blanket, and a good pair of water shoes for your adventures.

What should I pack for 10 days in Hawaii?

If you’re staying a bit longer than a week, you want to probably bring along an extra bag for some souvenirs and ensure that you have suitable clothing for various types of weather that may occur during your trip.

What to pack when going to Hawaii for 2 weeks?

Two weeks in Hawaii is an absolute dream! If you’re going for this long, make sure that you have enough of your toiletries and essential medications.

You also want to bring enough of a variety of clothing that you can use for the beach, days of adventure, and fun nights out after dark.

Essential Items to Pack for Hawaii

Click here to download this printable packing list for hawaii

No matter how long your stay will last, there are certain essential items that you must make sure to pack for a trip to the tropical paradise.

In addition to your typical travel essentials, like toothpaste and makeup, make sure that you bring all of these things to make your trip a breeze!

Reef Safe Sunscreen

You want to make sure that you protect your skin from the sun and also protect the delicate and beautiful reefs that surround the island from any harmful ingredients in your sunscreen.

A favorite pick is Blue Lizard Active Mineral Sunscreen which is Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free to protect the delicate reefs when swimming.

Hand Sanitizer Wipes

These days it is always a good idea to have some sort of hand sanitizer quickly available.

These Purell Wipes are conveniently packaged for on-the-go and gentle on your skin so that you can keep your hands clean without any redness or irritation.

Deet-Free Insect Repellent

There’s nothing like a bunch of mosquito bites to ruin a good day and because of the topical temperatures in Hawaii, mosquitos seem to be everywhere.

This version by Coleman is odorless and non-greasy and perfect for keeping away those pesky bugs for up to 8 hours.

Aloe Gel

Even the most careful sunblock appliers will occasionally suffer from a painful burn.

It’s always a good idea to have some aloe gel available to soothe not only sunburns but also bug bites and other minor irritations.

This lavender-infused organic version from pura d‘Or comes in a convenient pump and can be used all over the body, including hair and scalp.

First Aid Kit

It always seems like we need that band-aid right when we can’t quite seem to find one.

Packing a good travel first aid kit will ensure that you have the basics to handle minor injuries and irritations on the go.

This 100 piece set should have your basic needs covered whether hiking or traveling.

Face Masks

Hawaii has had some strict COVID policies in place, especially since the covid 19 omicron variant hawaii, so you want to make sure that you check for the latest Hawaii mask mandate guidelines and ensure you have enough masks for the duration of your stay in case one is required.

These disposable masks will ensure that you have one when you need it and don’t need to worry about washing or sanitizing.

Clothing items to Pack for Hawaii

Click here to download this Hawaii printable clothing packing list

It seems like the most carefully considered part of packing for any adventure is picking out which clothes to bring.

You want to make sure that you are covered for whatever adventure is thrown your way.

Pack these essential clothing items to ensure you have all the bases covered.

Swimsuits

This is definitely one clothing item that you do not want to forget for Hawaii!

With so many water activities to do, you will want to make sure that you have more than one. I would suggest having at least 1 swimsuit for every 2 days that you will be there to ensure a good rotation.

This basic Speedo suit will be great for your more adventurous water activities.

For lounging by the pool or the beach, this high-waisted bikini or this fun Hawaiian print are both good options.

Mesh Water Shoes

With so many beautiful places to hike in Hawaii, you want to make sure that your feet can handle the muddy or slippery terrain.

You also want to make sure that your feet are protected when wading in the ocean so that they don’t get cut on shells or coral.

This mesh pair from Aleader is a great lightweight option for all activities.

Maxi Dresses

A variety of maxi dresses are a necessity for your Hawaii packing list. These versatile dresses can serve as a swimsuit coverup and also be a dressy option for dinner.

They look great with flip-flops or fancier sandals and are lightweight and breezy. Amazon has so many amazing options and many of them are under $40!

A Light Jacket

Even if the days are sweltering, nights can often be cool on the island.

Packing a versatile lightweight jacket will ensure that you have something easy to throw on if there is a chill in the air or a sudden rainstorm.

This lightweight option comes in a variety of colors and is easily packable to not take up too much room in your suitcase.

Tennis Shoes

Although your dream vacation may involve wearing flip-flops all day every day, you will want to pack a pair of tennis shoes for times when you want to explore the island on foot and need a bit more support.

You can find a lot of inexpensive options on Amazon so you don’t have to worry about your favorite pair getting beat up or lost with your luggage.

Toiletries to Pack for Hawaii

Click here to download this Hawaii printable toiletries packing list

So many times I’ve gotten to my destination and realized that I forgot to pack some of the most basic toiletries.

To ensure that you don’t have to buy a $12 tube of toothpaste from the front desk, make sure you pack these basic necessities.

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

The most basic of all toiletries to pack are your toothpaste and toothbrush.

This Dr. Fresh Travel Kit ensures that you have a toothbrush, toothpaste, and some mouthwash. Throw one or two of these in your bag and you’ll be good to go.

Hair Products

Heat and humidity can do damage to your hairstyle. Be sure to pack travel sizes of your favorite styling products to ensure that your hair looks its best from the beach to the bar.

This humidity shield spray from Living Proof is a great option to protect your hair from that Hawaii heat.

Deodorant

You’ll need a strong deodorant for all the fun activities that you’ll be doing. Look for one that will stand up against the heat and will keep you smelling your best.

I love the options from NATIVE, as they are all aluminum-free and there is a scent for everybody.

Face Wipes

Face wipes are a quick way to remove your make-up at night when traveling or to freshen up during the day while at the beach.

These wipes from Burt’s Bees effortlessly remove makeup and are great for all skin types.

Feminine Hygiene Products

Even if you’re not predicting your monthly friend during your planned stay, it’s always a good idea to plan for the unexpected.

Traveling can sometimes make cycles irregular and your period could start unexpectedly.

This travel kit has a variety of options that will keep you protected while on the go.

Electronics to Pack for Hawaii

Click here to download this Hawaii printable electronics packing list

While visiting Hawaii you will want to make sure that your electronic devices stay charged and that you never miss the opportunity for the perfect photo because of a dead cell phone. Pack these items to keep you covered.

Wireless Phone Charger

Pack a wireless phone charger to ensure that your devices remain fully charged.

Wireless options are a good choice because they often work with a variety of devices, eliminating the need to pack multiple plugs.

Headphones/Earbuds

You will want a good set of headphones while traveling to Hawaii by plane, but you might also want to use them to listen to music on the beach, during a morning run, or to take a quick phone call.

We love these Beats Studio Buds because they are compatible with Apple and Android and are noise canceling.

Portable Waterproof Speaker

If you want to enjoy your favorite music without the use of headphones, a portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker will ensure that you can listen at the beach or by the pool.

This JBL Flip speaker is a great option because it’s small and delivers quality sound.

Travel VPN Router

A travel VPN router will ensure that you have a protected connection when you’re using a public WiFi connection, such as the one at the hotel.

It’s an extra step that you can take to make sure that your passwords and other identifying information is safe from hackers while traveling.

This option is small and easily converts a public WiFi into a private connection.

Kindle

The Kindle is smaller to pack than several books and will keep you entertained during the long flight or while relaxing poolside or at the beach.

Load it up with your favorite books or some new reads before you head out and you’ll never run out of reading material.

Camera

One of the greatest joys of going on vacations is the experiences and memories that are made! Take a little piece of Hawaii back home with you by capturing the moments spent there with either a Go Pro, Camera, or, like many others, your iPhone.

Check out my favorite photography travel gear here.

Beach Items to Pack for Hawaii

Click here to download this Hawaii printable beach packing list

Aside from your swimsuit, there are some other options that you’ll want to remember to pack for when you’re at the beach.

Sun Hat

You’ll want to make sure that you can block the sun from your eyes and protect your scalp at the same time.

A sun hat is a stylish and functional beach necessity.

This wide-brim foldable hat comes in a variety of colors and has a UPF of 50 to provide fashionable protection.

Sand Resistant Beach Blanket

Even if the resort you are staying at provides you with beach towels, you will want to pack at least one sand-resistant beach blanket for times you venture out and visit other beaches or parks.

This extra-large quick-drying option ensures that you always have the room you need to spread out.

Beach Bag

You will definitely need to pack a bag to tote all your essentials back and forth from the beach each day. Look for one that is waterproof, will rinse out easily, and is big enough to carry everything you need.

This version from SCOUT is large and comes in so many pretty colors.

Dry Bag

A dry bag is a necessity whether at the beach or venturing out on a day trip. It will protect anything that you don’t want to be accidentally splashed or soaked (like a change of clothes for the end of the day).

This option from Earth Pak is inexpensive and dries quickly. It also comes with a waterproof phone case.

Long Sleeve Rash Guard

If you think you’ll try surfing, paddle boarding, or other similar water activities, you will want a long sleeve rash guard with UPF protection.

It’s also a good thing to have if you burn easily and want to spend long hours on the beach.

This Body Glove option is super-soft, quick-drying, and has a smooth look.

Sunscreen

You will want to lather up in sunscreen if you’re visiting Hawaii, especially in the summer months. Even though the temperature may only raise to the high 80s, the UV index is much stronger since it’s closer to the equator.

My favorite sunscreen to use is the Super Goop and the EltaMD Facial Sunscreen.

Sunglasses

A must-have item when traveling to Hawaii is sunglasses. I know I’m not the only one who doesn’t like to bring their expensive sunglasses on vacation for fear they might get lost or break.

Don’t worry – you can still enjoy the beauty of Hawaii without squinting all day with these cheaper, but still stylish, knock-off Ray-Ban sunglasses.

Hawaii Packing List Items Not to Forget

Click here to download this packing list hawaii printable

Our extensive list should have you pretty much covered, but before you zip up your bags and head out, there are a few other items you’ll want to make sure not to forget.

Pro Tip: Make sure you are bringing all the necessary carry-on items for that long plane ride!

Hawaii Shirt

Of course, you’ll probably come home with a bunch of these as souvenirs, but if you want to get into the island vibe immediately upon landing, pack your own.

I love the many styles of Hawaiian shirts for women including this pineapple printed option and this one that you can tie up into a sexy crop.

Underwater Camera

No doubt you will be seeing some very cool things as you snorkel and explore the option.

If you don’t want to jeopardize your smartphone getting ruined or wet, invest in an inexpensive underwater camera to capture all of the memories.

This option is waterproof up to a depth of 30 meters and will allow you to capture all of those action shots in high quality.

Travel Umbrella

As with any tropical location, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable and you will most likely experience some rainy weather at some point, especially when touring certain parts of the island like the Hawaii National Parks.

This windproof travel umbrella will ensure that you have something that you can easily carry with you and will prevent you from getting soaked.

Sunglasses

You’ll want a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses for your trip. Look for a pair that won’t slide off of your face when you’re sweating or active.

I love Maui Jim sunglasses because they are polarized and enhance the colors around you on both sunny and cloudy days while protecting your eyes.

Emergency Cash

Even though you can pay for pretty much everything with plastic these days, it is always a good idea when traveling to have a small stash of emergency cash on you.

This can be useful if you are traveling to more remote areas and if you need to tip drivers, valets, bellhops, etc. Keep it protected and handy in a slim travel pouch like this one.

Packing for the Seasons in Hawaii

Depending on the time of year of your visit, you may need to pack a few different things.

Here are some ideas for what to remember to pack in the summer and the winter.

Summer in Hawaii Packing List:

Click here to download this Hawaii printable summer packing list

If you’re traveling to Hawaii in the summer months of May through October, you’ll want to remember that it will be very hot and tropical.

There will most likely be rainfall and mosquitos. Pack your insect repellent, a good sunhat, cool moisture-wicking clothing, and a rain jacket and umbrella.

You will also want sandals and flip-flops for the beach but hiking shoes as well for venturing out and exploring the area.

Winter in Hawaii packing list:

Click here to download this Hawaii printable winter packing list

In the winter months of Hawaii from November through April, the island is slightly cooler.

The Hawaii weather in December is typically sunny, cool, and dry near the touristy areas, so a couple of light sweaters will keep you comfortable enough.

However, if you venture out to explore the mountainous areas, it will tend to be on the colder side.

You will most likely need a medium-weight fleece jacket and maybe even some gloves and a hat. As with the other seasons, prepare for some rain with a packable rain jacket and umbrella.

What NOT to Take to Hawaii

Click here to download this printable packing list

There are a few things you’ll want to leave at home when traveling to Hawaii. For example, leave any really valuable jewelry or electronics as there’s always a risk of something getting lost or stolen when traveling.

You’ll also want to leave behind your fancy high-heeled shoes and expensive dresses as most of the island is quite casual and high-heels are not practical for walking on the beach.

Try to keep your luggage as light as you can, so remember your Kindle and leave the heavy books back home and edit your clothing items.

Instead, try to bring items that can be worn multiple times or from day to night.

You’re now ready to get going on your Hawaii honeymoon or your dream Hawaii trip!

This packing list will hopefully help you prepare without some of the stress.

Have you taken a trip to Hawaii recently and have a “must-have” that we didn’t include on the list? I’d love to hear about it! Drop me a comment below.

Safe Travels!