What to pack for Hawaii (2025)

Knowing what to pack for Hawaii can help enjoy your trip to the max; we share everything from clothing to water gear, toiletries to gadgets. 

Hawaii is a dream destination for many, known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and warm tropical weather. Whether you’re heading to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, packing appropriately will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

What to pack for Hawaii 

1. Essentials, Travel Documents & Money

Before thinking about clothing or gear, ensure you have all the necessary documents and financial items. 

• Passport/ID: This is a given but your passport and/or ID is a must, make sure you have your passport or ID with you for travel and as always, make sure it is in date. 
• Boarding passes/tickets: Most airlines offer online check-in before the flight, which is always advised. We always recommend doing this so you can choose your preferred seat when possible and speed up the check-in process. 
• Travel insurance details: Of course, travel insurance is essential no matter where you are in the world. In Hawaii, you may decide to go surfing or scuba diving; so consider this when choosing your travel insurance as not all insurance options cover extreme sports or water sports. 
• Credit/debit cards: Make sure to notify your bank if traveling internationally, no one wants to spend their time calling up banks to unblock their card. 
• Cash: In Hawaii, you won’t need too much cash; most places offers card. However, it is worth taking some cash with you, in case you want to visit a local market or store.
• Hotel reservations & activity confirmations: Bring printouts or digital copies of any hotel reservations or activity confirmations you have.
• Luggage: Whether you want luxury luggage like those at Horizn Studios or a backpack, you need to make sure you bring luggage. We love packing cubes to organize our clothing and no need to fill up on toiletries, these are each to purchase in Hawaii. Just double-check the weight allowances on your flight, some airlines are strict on how much luggage you can bring or if you can even bring a bag! 
• Car rental confirmation & driver’s license: If you plan on renting a car, bring a copy (digital or printout) of your car rental confirmation to speed up the process. Also, make sure to have your driving license with you. if you are traveling from an international destination, look into getting an International Driving License.

2. Clothing Essentials

Hawaii’s weather is warm and humid year-round, so light and breathable clothing is best. Here’s what to pack on your ultimate Hawaii packing list:

Daytime Attire:

• Lightweight T-shirts/tank tops: moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal.
• Shorts: denim, athletic, or casual cotton shorts, no matter your style.
• Sundresses or casual rompers for an easy, breezy outfit.
• Swimsuits: Pack at least 2-3 so you always have a dry one.
• Cover-ups or sarongs for beach outings.

Evening & Dressier Outfits:

• Casual dresses or skirts for dinners and luaus.
• Collared shirts or polo shirts for men, some restaurants require them.
• Lightweight pants or capris, perfect for cooler evenings or formal settings.
• A light cardigan or shawl: Hawaii’s nights can be breezy so keep the chill off with a shawl or cardigan. 

Activewear:

• Athletic shorts & tank tops: Essential for hikes and excursions.
• Leggings or joggers: For early morning hikes or cool evenings.
• Sports bras and moisture-wicking socks
• Rain jacket or poncho: Hawaii gets occasional rain showers, so be prepared. 

Footwear:

• Flip-flops/sandals: For everyday wear and beach days.
• Water shoes: Ideal for rocky beaches, waterfalls, and snorkeling.
• Hiking shoes or trail runners: Essential if planning on hiking.
• Casual sneakers: Perfect for city exploring and those Honolulu trip planners.

3. Beach & Water Gear

Hawaii is all about the beach, so come prepared:

• Beach towel or compact travel towel
• Snorkel gear: Although many places rent them, bringing your own ensures hygiene.
• Reef-safe sunscreen: Hawaii bans sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect coral reefs, so make sure you have reef-safe sunscreen.
• Sun hat or baseball cap: A must for added sun protection.
• Sunglasses: Polarized lenses help reduce glare from the ocean, especially ideal for those wanting to spend a lot of time on the beach or on the waters.
• Dry bag: For keeping electronics and valuables dry, especially on boat trips from Hawaii. 
• Waterproof phone case
• Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion: We always bring this as Calum gets burnt way too easily, so bring after-sun or aloe vera for sunburn relief. 

4. Toiletries & Personal Care

If you have certain favorite items, then bring them along. But remember that most items are available in Hawaii if you forget something.

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Shampoo & conditioner: Bring travel-sized or solid bars to save space.
• Body wash or soap
• Deodorant
• Razor & shaving cream
• Moisturizer/lotion
• Bug spray: This is especially important for hikes and rainforest areas.
• Hairbrush or comb
• Hair ties & clips
• Lip balm with SPF
• Hand sanitizer & wet wipes

5. Health & First Aid

A small first aid kit can be incredibly useful:

• Prescription medications: bring enough for the trip, plus a few extra days.
• Pain relievers: Bring ibuprofen, especially if you are prone to headaches. 
• Motion sickness pills: If you’re planning on boat tours, make sure to bring motion sickness pills. 
• Band-aids & blister patches
• Antihistamines: For allergies or bug bites.
• Antiseptic wipes & antibiotic ointment
• Electrolyte packets: Perfect for rehydration after long hikes or hot days.

6. Gadgets & Electronics

• Smartphone & charger
• Portable power bank
• Waterproof camera or GoPro: For underwater shots.
• E-reader or book: For relaxing on the beach.
• Headphones or earbuds
• Travel adapter: Hawaii uses standard U.S. outlets, but international travelers may need an adapter.

7. Hiking & Outdoor Adventure Gear

If you plan on exploring Hawaii’s natural wonders, pack:

• Daypack or small backpack: For carrying water and essentials on hikes.
• Refillable water bottle
• Trekking poles: This can be helpful for steep hikes.
• Binoculars: A great piece of gear for birdwatching or spotting distant whales.
• Headlamp or flashlight: Some hikes require early starts or end late, so these can be helpful. 

8. Miscellaneous Items

• Reusable shopping bags: Hawaii has strict plastic bag laws, so bringing a reusable shopping bag or two can be a great help. 
• Ziploc bags: Store those wet swimsuits or snacks in ziploc bags. 
• Snacks: Bring along protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit for long hikes, but you can get these from the stores here too. 

9. Packing Tips for Hawaii

• Pack light: You’ll likely spend most of your time in casual wear, so avoid overpacking.
• Use packing cubes: A great way to stay organized and save space.
• Leave room for souvenirs: Hawaii is known for unique keepsakes like Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, and handmade jewelry; which should all be on your USA bucket list.
• Check the airline baggage policy: If island hopping, inter-island flights may have stricter baggage limits.

Things to know before you go to Hawaii

Packing for Hawaii doesn’t have to be stressful. With this checklist, you’ll have everything you need for a fun, relaxing, and adventure-filled trip. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking through lush valleys, or exploring vibrant cities, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever comes your way.

Aloha and happy travels!