The Happiness Function

I’m sharing the ultimate Hawai’i packing list to help you plan before you head to paradise in the Pacific. 

Hawai’i is a magical place. With eight major islands and over 1,500 miles of coastline, the Aloha State attracts travelers year-round. Its temperate climate, a wide range of outdoor and ocean activities, and delicious local cuisine make it a must-visit destination on many bucket lists. 

But what should you pack on your trip to Hawai’i? Think about the activities you’ll want to do while you’re there, and the time of year you’ll be visiting.

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About the Weather in Hawai’i

Contrary to popular belief, Hawai’i does have seasons, though the differences aren’t as drastic compared to other parts of the world. Hawai’i is warm and sunny, but it also has a rainy season that brings wet, humid weather to the islands. 

In general, bring breathable, comfortable clothing. Anything too heavy or tight might make you uncomfortable in the warm climate.

The average daytime temperature hovers around 85 degrees, while the hottest days can break into the 90s in July and August. Keep in mind that the added humidity will make it feel a lot warmer than that. 

Winter months also bring cooler weather and heavy rainfall.

Don’t forget that Hawai’i also experiences Hurricane Season, which lasts from June 1 to November 30. For your safety, research before planning your trip in case your visit falls during this time.

Clothing and Shoes

Depending on when you travel to Hawai’i, your packing list may range from tank tops to jeans and leggings, but here are some go-to clothing items you’ll want to bring.

Swimsuit

Chances are you’ll be spending a significant amount of time relaxing at the beach. Bring a swimsuit — or two — so you’ll always be ready to dip into the Pacific. 

I like to have at least two, so I can leave one to dry.

I also like to pack a beach cover-up.

Slippers (Flip-Flops)

Flip-flops are called slippers in Hawai’i. Having a pair of slippers handy makes it easy to walk around the beach or run into the ABC Store for some snacks before heading out for the day. 

I like wearing these Chaco flip-flops.

Hiking or Walking Shoes

Slippers are convenient, but shoes are necessary for walking or exploring the island. Hawai’i has some of the best hikes in the world, from scenic oceanside trails to inland paths with stellar waterfalls. Sturdy shoes with good traction are a must, like these Oboz hiking shoes. 

Pants

Hawaii is pretty casual, and if you’re flying there, it’s easy to pack a pair of leggings or jeans just in case you need them.

I never travel to warm climates without these quick-drying leggings.

Comfortable Shorts

I’ll say it again: comfort is your best friend when planning your trip to Hawai’i. Shorts, in particular, should be at the top of your mind.

If you aren’t used to hot weather, you don’t want to risk overheating, so bring loose and breathable shorts.

Outfit Idea: My favorite shorts are the Track That 5″ High Rise shorts from lululemon. Pair them with a Cates cropped T-shirt, flip-flops, and a belt bag; they’re perfect for sightseeing. This is my go-to island outfit!

Shirts

Bring quick-drying sun shirts — both short-sleeve and long-sleeve. I also like to wear tank tops and thin cotton crop tops.

Outfit Idea: I like this long-sleeve sun shirt from Patagonia with Track That High Rise shorts from lululemon. Don’t forget a beach tote!

Sundress

Bring a casual sundress that is comfortable for sightseeing, shopping, and going out to eat.

Light Rain Jacket

Even in the summer months, you may get caught in the rain or experience a tropical storm that passes over the islands. Leave your heavy winter coats at home, but pack a light, waterproof jacket with a hood to keep you dry. 

Toiletries

Don’t forget to bring your essential toiletries from home, like a hair brush, hair ties, contacts, glasses, medications, and personal hygiene supplies.

To save space in your bag, you can buy lotion, soap, shampoo, and conditioner once you get to Hawai’i.

Beach Necessities

What’s a trip to Hawai’i without some quality time at the beach? Hawai’i is home to some of the best and most beautiful sandy beaches.

Besides working on your tan, you can also learn to surf, go snorkeling along the reef, or even go crab hunting at night. Your Hawai’i packing list should include everything you’ll need for trips to the beach. Depending on what kind of water activities you want to enjoy, you may need to bring some extra gear. 

Wherever you end up, be mindful of what you bring to the beach and how you leave it when you go. Both locals and the island will thank you.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must when planning a trip to Hawai’i, but not just any sunscreen will do. About 25% of the sunscreen we put on our bodies is left in the ocean.

Octinoxate and oxybenzone are common chemicals found in most sunscreens, but are incredibly toxic. Bring an eco-friendly or reef-safe sunscreen that doesn’t contain either of these chemicals.

Remember to check the ingredients list of the sunscreen you pick up before bringing it on your trip. 

Hat

Investing in a good hat will help keep you cool outdoors. There are several styles to choose from, but make sure to pick a hat with a wide brim. It will help protect your eyes and face from the sun.

I like baseball caps or trucker snapback hats made of mesh. Straw sun hats are also excellent choices thanks to their broad brims and lightweight materials. 

Sunglasses

Make sure to bring a good pair of sunglasses (or two) on your trip to Hawai’i. Sunglasses will protect you from the sun and reduce eyestrain.

Consider buying a pair of polarized sunglasses. This means the lens has a protective coating to help reduce glare and light reflected from reflective surfaces. 

Beach Tote or Bag

A beach bag doesn’t have to be anything special or fancy. A simple tote bag will do fine. You want to ensure the bag is lightweight and big enough to carry all your belongings — towel, food and water, a book, an extra change of clothes, etc.

I like this lululemon tote. I can use it as my personal item on the plane, carry groceries in it, and then take it to the beach.

Beach Towel

Do not take your hotel bathroom towel to the beach. Beach towels are much larger than your typical bath towel (and most resorts don’t like it when you do that).

You want a towel with enough space to lounge on, wrap you up, and keep you dry once you come out of the water. 

My favorite beach towel is by Nomadix. It dries quickly and doesn’t smell after a few uses.

Water Shoes

If you’re planning to do water activities — even walking along the rocks by the shore — a pair of water shoes will come in handy.

Water shoes are designed with rubber traction to keep you from sliding on wet surfaces. They tend to be mesh, so they’ll also keep you cool on dry land. 

Snorkel and Fins

Depending on where you go, you may be able to find snorkel gear to rent — usually at high-traffic beaches like Waikiki.

If you’re planning to explore the island and know snorkeling is on your to-do list, bringing your own snorkel and fins means you won’t have to worry about renting gear. 

We always bring our own snorkel gear.

Outdoor Travel Gear

Aside from water activities at the beach, Hawai’i is a great place to explore the outdoors, no matter which island you visit.

Many visitors travel to Hawai’i to visit the national parks and go hiking, riding ATVs, and horseback riding. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hawai’i has a lot to offer. 

Bringing the right travel gear will make your trip more memorable and enjoyable.

Safety is always the most important aspect when traveling throughout the islands. Be prepared for the type of environment and terrain you plan to explore. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Being outdoors in the hot weather will affect your body over time. Staying hydrated throughout your trip will help prevent overheating or heat stroke.

Bringing a reusable water bottle also means less plastic and waste left, which is a win-win for everyone.

I like to travel with Nalgene water bottles. They are lightweight and easy to fly with. 

Hiking Backpack

If you plan to go hiking, take a lightweight yet sturdy backpack to carry all your gear and belongings.

This day pack from REI is pretty cool. I also never travel without my belt bag.

Action Camera

Ziplining, parasailing, and driving ATVs are all fun and exciting activities to do in Hawai’i. To capture these experiences, you should bring a camera designed to capture high-level action, like a GoPro or Insta360.

We have an Insta360 with the selfie stick.

Underwater Camera or Waterproof Phone Case

A whole other world lives beneath the ocean. As I said before, snorkeling is a great activity to discover life in coral reefs and along sandbars.

With an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case, you can take snapshots of your adventures without damaging your phone. 

First-Aid Kit

We all know that accidents happen, even when on vacation. If you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities, keep a first-aid kit nearby in case you need to treat an injury.

You can also buy aloe vera once you get to Hawai’i to help soothe any sunburns. 

Reusable Grocery Bag

Hawai’i is one of eight states to ban single-use plastic bags. This means you’ll have to carry your own items when you stop at Foodland or Safeway for snacks on your way to the beach. Or, bring a reusable bag — problem solved. 

America the Beautiful National Park Pass

If you are an annual America the Beautiful National Park Pass holder, put your pass on your Hawaii packing list.

There is an entrance fee to enter Haleakala National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, but if you have your pass, you can enter without paying the fee.

Grab Your Ticket to Paradise, Hawai’i Is Calling

When you start thinking about your trip and what should go on your list, you want to pack for the activities you’ll be doing. A little planning ahead can go a long way.

Don’t forget to leave some room for souvenirs you’ll take home, like chocolate-covered macadamia nuts!

Before you know it, you’ll be flying on your next trip to the Hawaiian Islands. 

❤️ Images from Ashlee & Pablo’s trip to Maui in 2016 and Oahu in 2017.

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