What to Pack for Your Trip to Hawaii: Everything You'll Need!

Hawaii's just one of the destinations in the world filled with a diversity of things you can do and activities you can partake in. That's unfortunately also why most people, me included, overpack for a trip to Hawaii.

While most blogs pressure with a shopping list of items you "need to buy", we'll walk you through what you'll actually need for your trip, based on the contexts of when and what you'll be doing your trip to Hawaii.

This blog will mainly be me going through what you'll most likely need for your Hawaii excursion, but if you need a guide to planning a trip to Hawaii, we go through all of the cool activities and attractions you won't want to miss out in your itinerary.

Before hopping on the plane, go through this packing list for Hawaii and make sure you have everything you need for a trip to this tropical paradise. Let's dive in!

Seasonal Considerations: Hawaii

The one thing people don't consider when packing for a trip to Hawaii is the season you'll be coming in at. Most traveler's make the mistake that seasons don't matter in Hawaii when it's one of the first things I recommend you consider in your packing list.

Hawaii's temperatures usually range from the mid-60s to the high 80s, with a possibility of rain. Here's a more specific breakdown of seasonal temperatures and the weather to expect at certain times of the year.

December – March

The coldest months are usually from December to March.

During these months, you should expect temperatures around 15-20˚C in the early mornings. However, temperatures in January during the daytime average 20-28˚C, so unless you get cold easily or you're just not used to colder temperatures, you can leave the heavy jackets at home.

It can also get quite rainy at times. Tropical islands experience rainy seasons, and the rainiest months are usually November and March, so pack a small umbrella or raincoat. I recommend getting a pair of waterproof shoes like the Vessi!

April – October

April and May can bring some rainfall, but from May to September, the weather gets hot and summer-y. These summer months are perfect for light layers and breezy clothing. That means more space in your luggage for souvenirs!

Hawaii's hottest month is typically August, when temperatures can reach the high 30˚Cs. When October comes, there'll be a bigger chance of rainfall.

Make your packing list according to the weather and pack a few small items just in case your bright, sunny beach day is transformed by a passing storm. Now that that's covered, here's what you should bring on your exciting Hawaiian vacation.

Hawaii Travel Essentials 

When heading to Hawaii, make sure you pack the necessary travel essentials. This includes a passport, government-issued ID, and other documents you may need for your trip.

Check the currency in Hawaii if you're a non-American citizen. Despite its proximity to the US, Hawaii is a state and uses the American Dollar as its currency.  

You should also bring a credit/debit card to make purchases easily around the island. Consider getting a power bank to keep your electronics charged while on the go. Your phone's gotta be ready to take those Instagrammable pics any time!

To make it convenient for you, here's a summarized list of items to bring:

• Passport or government ID
• Copies of your passport
• Bankcards
• Power Banks 
• Phone chargers
• Camera
• Memory cards or external storage devices 
• Prescription medicines
• American (USD) Dollars (Non-US Residents)
• Power adaptors (Non-US Residents) 

Psst... Feel free to copy and paste them into your Pilot planner for your packing list and travel itinerary!

Travel Apparels to Bring to Hawaii

When packing for your trip to Hawaii, it's important to bring lightweight and comfortable clothes. Don't forget, you can buy them there as well!

Make sure to include one light sweater or jacket if you're hiking up one of Hawaii's many mountains. Shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops are essential items and can be easily layered according to the temperature.

And hey, perhaps you'll decide to enjoy a nice evening with your friends or partner, so bring one dressy outfit for a night out. I highly recommend getting a garment bag if you do end up bringing a dress or suit!

In your suitcase, have the following: 

• Underwear
• One sweater or jacket 
• Shorts
• T-Shirts
• Tank tops 
• One nice outfit

How many of them depends on the length of your trip!

To make packing more efficient and organized, consider getting handy packing cubes to be more organized during your travels. Spend less time searching for your bikini and more time suntanning at the beach!

Shoes & Sandals

The type of shoes you decide on for your packing list for Hawaii is critical. Lightweight, comfortable shoes that can be worn daily, like flip-flops or sandals, are a must-have. My favorite is Tevas, as they're a great all-around shoe and perfect for any activity.

Consider bringing a pair of sneakers or hiking boots if you plan on exploring more rugged terrain, like trekking through the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. For fancy evenings, pack a single pair of dressier shoes.

In summary, bring:

• Casual flip-flops
• Comfortable Sneakers ‍
• Hiking boots for adventures
• Dressier shoes for evenings out

Toiletries

Avoid bringing toiletries that your accommodation already supplies for you. Unless you require a specific body wash, it's best to practice minimalist packing to save space in your case and use the toiletries provided there.

Here's a list of must-have toiletries if they're not provided for:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Toothbrush 
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Deodorant
• Feminine hygiene products 
• Alcohol hand gel 
• Hair products
• Makeup

Remember that most of your day will be at the beach, relaxing on the warm sand. You don't need to bring your makeup kit, complete with 20+ eyeshadows.

Unless there's a particular reason why you need that makeup product, it's better to downsize and travel lighter.

Beach Essentials

With temperatures in Hawaii often reaching the high 25˚C or more, sun protection is an absolute must! Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreens and aloe vera for after-sun care.

Don't fret if you run out due to carry-on liquid restrictions: you'll always have the opportunity to buy them in Hawaii as well.

If you plan on spending time in the ocean or pool, consider bringing a rash guard or wetsuit. Also, remember to pack a swimsuit, flip-flops for your trip, and a good book to read while you relax in the sun.

You can go without a beach towel as most hotels supply them for their guests, so leave those at home and free up some space inside your suitcase. 

To summarize, here's my recommended list to bring:

• Unisex sunglasses 
• Brimmed hat ‍
• Sunscreen stick
• After-sun lotion 
• Rash guard
• Swimsuit
• Flip-flops
• Books to read

If you think you'll be spending most of your time on the stunning beaches in Hawaii, here's a more comprehensive beach vacation packing list!

Activity Specific Must-haves On Your Trip

A quick search through social media will show that Hawaii has an immense variety of activities available, and you'll need specialized gear or clothing for that.

For instance, if you plan on hiking, you should pack extra layers and comfortable hiking shoes, as temperatures can drop in high-elevation locations. Whether you're hiking popular destinations like Diamond Head or biking down the picturesque Waimea Canyon, be sure to bring the right gear. 

If you're planning on adventuring outdoors, bring the following:

• Day bag or hiking backpack 
• Rainproof apparel
• Reusable water bottle 
• Good hiking shoes
• Insect repellant

I also love bringing a small hammock on all my hiking trips. They're great for when you want to take a break and relax between the trees, and if you purchase the right one, it won't take up too much space in your suitcase or backpack.

Day Packs For Your Trip

Speaking of backpacks…

As an adventure seeker, you won't catch me without a sturdy, compactable day bag. They're better than carrying a shoulder bag that may slip and slide off as you walk the beaches, and much better than a small purse that isn't big enough to hold your water bottle.

Backpack brands like Osprey offer high-quality day and hiking bags with detachable day bags at the front. An ultra-light stuff pack would be the day pack I recommend and use for day-to-day use.

To carry my small wallet, keys, and chapstick, I bring a small bum bag to wear across my chest or around my waist. I recommend the day bag and bum bag combo, as you can maintain quick access to your cash without taking off your backpack whenever you want to stop and buy something.

What to Avoid Packing for Hawaii 

A Hawaiian vacation can easily be ruined by overpacking! I promise you that you don't need 30 t-shirts for a one-week holiday!

As with most major destinations across the globe, laundry services are available. Using them prevents you from overpacking and weighing your luggage with unneeded items. 

What's more, there's a high chance that you'll purchase a few new pairs of shorts, bikinis, and flip-flops for yourself and others back home. Keep in mind there are tons of cultural items you might want to buy, like traditional Hawaiian shirts, flower necklaces, and tiki carvings. So leaving some extra space in your suitcase for your souvenirs is essential.

Depending on your accommodation, items like hair dryers, complimentary beach towels, combs, umbrellas, and toothbrush kits are available, so you can leave those items at home too! 

If you aren't sure, read the room's details carefully during the reservation process. You can email the hotel several days before your trip to inquire about the room's amenities and complementary items. Doing so can help you save space in your suitcase. 

To avoid overpacking, here's a list of items you should not bring to Hawaii:

• Winter coats or jackets
• Denim jeans
• Beach towels
• Uncomfortable shoes
• Snorkel and similar gear
• Heavy sweaters or sweatshirts
• Large umbrellas
• Expensive jewelry and high-value items
• Large suitcases

What to Pack for a One-Week Trip to Hawaii

So you're only going to Hawaii for seven days and want a quick packing list of the essentials?  

First and foremost, knowing what you'll be doing in those seven days is a must. 

Think about your interests and itinerary. Are you a single female traveler who wants to take gorgeous Instagram photos on the beach? Or are you an adventurous traveler who enjoys waking up at dawn to hike?

If you plan to spend most of your time in the sun and sand, make sure to pack these items: 

• 1 dressier outfit for dinner
• 1 lightweight jacket 
• 1 day-bag 
• 1 cross-body or bum-bag 
• 1 bottle of sunscreen 
• 1 bottle of aloe or after-sun
• 1 toiletries bag 
• 2-4 bras 
• 2-3 swimsuits
• 1-2 flip-flops or sandals
• 7 pairs of shorts or lightweight, flowy pants
• 7 t-shirts
• 7 pairs of underwear 

In addition, remember to bring your camera, phone, and charger to capture all of those unforgettable moments!

For adventurous ladies, add these items to your packing list:

• 1-3 athletic sports bra
• 1 pair of hiking boots or sneakers
• 1 reusable water bottle 

When packing for Hawaii, remember to keep your luggage as light as possible and bring comfortable and suitable items for the activities you plan on doing.

What to Pack for a 10-Day Trip to Hawaii

Use the 7-day Hawaii packing list above. Add three additional outfits and maybe a few more toiletries to last the extra three nights in paradise. 

Hawaii Awaits!

Now that you're packed and ready to go, it's time to get excited about your trip! Speaking of getting ready for trips to new destinations, give Pilot a try to plan your next adventure!