The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List: What to Bring, What to Skip, and Popular Gift Ideas

Packing for a Hawaii vacation should feel like prepping for paradise — not a stressful scramble. But if you’ve ever found yourself suitcase-deep in flip-flops, snorkel gear, and sunscreen bottles, you know that it’s not always as easy as it sounds. Whether you’re heading to O‘ahu, Maui, Kaua‘i, or the Big Island, a smart Hawaii packing list makes all the difference between an amazing trip and trying travel. Here’s your go-to guide on what to bring, what to skip, and what to seek out on the islands to bring back home.

What to Bring: Must-Haves for Your Hawaii Packing List

When it comes to putting together a packing list for a beach vacation, think light, functional, and versatile. While most days are hot and humid, rain does happen, and nights can get breezy so a little planning goes a long way. Grocery stores and convenience stores are also available on the islands for any forgotten items.

Clothing Essentials

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
• 2–3 swimsuits
• Rash guard or UV swim shirt (for snorkeling and paddleboarding)
• Flip flops and a pair of sturdy shoes for hiking
• Light sweater or sweatshirt (it does chilly at night and at elevation — especially on Mauna Kea)
• Sundress or aloha shirt for dinner

Beach and Adventure Gear

• Reef-safe sunscreen (Hawai‘i bans sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate)
• Reusable water bottle
• Snorkel gear (rentals are easy to find, but bringing your own ensures fit and cleanliness)
• Dry bag and waterproof phone case
• Sun hat and polarized sunglasses
• Quick-dry towel or microfiber beach towel
• Beach bag (practical for carrying essentials like sunscreen, towels, and books)
• Bug spray (especially on hikes or in wetter parts of the islands like Hilo)
• Aloe vera or after-sun gel
• Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, ibuprofen, etc.)
• Reusable shopping bag (plastic bags are banned in many areas)
• Travel umbrella or light rain jacket (frequent, short showers are common)

“Can’t stress enough: reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable water bottle saved me on every beach day.” – @travelwithteagan

Electronics

• Phone and portable charger
• Underwater camera or GoPro for snorkeling adventures
• Downloaded maps or guidebooks (some areas have no service)

Documents

• Driver’s license (for rentals or ID)
• Travel insurance info
• Copies of reservations and tour confirmations
• National Parks pass (if visiting Haleakalā or Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park)

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit cultural sites like the Polynesian Cultural Center or take a hike into Waipi‘o Valley, make sure to wear covered shoes and respectful attire. You’ll be more comfortable and better prepared.

What NOT to Bring to Hawaii

It’s easy to overpack when you’re excited. But Hawai‘i is casual, and you’ll likely spend most of your time in shorts, a swimsuit, and slippers (what locals call flip flops). Here’s what you can leave behind:

• Heavy jackets or boots (unless you’re doing serious high-altitude hiking)
• Formal wear (resorts and restaurants are mostly island casual)
• Excessive jewelry (you won’t want to worry about losing it in the ocean)
• Full-size toiletries (save space and buy in Hawai‘i if needed)
• Beach towels from home (most hotels provide them or offer rentals)

“Packed three dresses, wore one. Spent most days in shorts and a tank. Don’t overthink it!” – @islandroamer_jane

Pro Tip: If you’re staying at a vacation rental or Airbnb, you can check to see if they provide coolers, beach gear, or snorkel sets. Many do.

Special Tips by Island

When visiting the Hawaiian Islands, it’s important to consider the unique ecosystem and cultural aspects of each island.

O‘ahu: Bring shoes for exploring Honolulu or hiking Diamond Head. Don’t forget a light jacket for evening shows or dinners in Waikīkī. It does get breezy by the water.

Maui: You’ll want hiking shoes if visiting ʻĪao Valley or the Road to Hāna. Layers are essential if catching the sunrise at Haleakalā.

Big Island: This island has 11 climate zones. You’ll need beachwear, but also hiking gear, and warm clothes for Mauna Kea.

Kaua‘i: Expect frequent rain showers — especially in areas like Hanalei or Waimea Canyon. A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella is a lifesaver.

Island Treasures: Souvenirs to Seek Out

No trip to Hawai‘i is complete without a few meaningful mementos. Skip the mass-produced trinkets and opt for souvenirs that capture the essence of the islands. Handmade soaps and lotions infused with plumeria or kukui nut oil keep the scent of Hawai‘i alive. Locally roasted Kona or Ka‘u coffee, macadamia nuts, and Hawaiian sea salt make tasty, easy-to-pack gifts. You can also bring back authentic Aloha Wear, artisan jewelry, or a small piece of woodwork like a koa bowl. Each tells a story and supports local artisans — making it more than a souvenir, but a keepsake of your time in paradise.

Gifts to Bring from the Mainland to Hawaii

It might surprise you, but many local friends and family love treats from the mainland — especially if you’re visiting kamaʻāina or reconnecting with ʻohana.

Top Gifting Favorites

• Trader Joe’s snacks: Think chili-lime cashews, “Everything but the Bagel” seasoning, or their beloved cookie butter. These are gold in Hawai‘i, where there’s no Trader Joe’s yet.
• Specialty spices or sauces: Anything seasonal or regional (BBQ sauces from Texas, hot sauces from the South, etc.)
• Reusable canvas totes or cooler bags from your hometown grocery store or co-op

“I always bring a duffel bag full of Trader Joe’s snacks for my cousin’s family. It’s the most requested ‘souvenir’ every time.” – @kalikimoves

Gifts to Avoid

• Plants, fruits, or agricultural items (Hawai‘i has strict biosecurity laws)
• Non-reef-safe skincare or sunscreens
• Bulky items that are hard to travel with

Packing for Kids and Families

Traveling with kids? Hawai‘i is super family-friendly. Here are a few extras to consider:

• Inflatable floaties
• Water shoes for protection from rocky shores and ocean floors
• Basic beach toys (or grab them from a local ABC Store)
• Snacks for beach days and drives
• Child-safe bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen

Many families recommend checking a collapsible wagon or lightweight stroller for getting gear to and from the beach or resort pool.

A Word on Sustainable Packing

Hawai‘i’s ecosystems are fragile and deeply loved by locals. Packing with sustainability in mind is one of the best ways to show respect.

• Opt for mineral-based sunscreens (like zinc oxide)
• Bring reusable utensils, water bottles, and straws
• Avoid single-use plastics
• Choose reef-safe bug repellents
• Shop local whenever possible — farmers markets, made-in-Hawai‘i gifts, or farm visits are great for souvenirs

When packing up to return home, leave the sand and lava rocks behind. It’s not just respectful — it’s good luck. Taking lava from the islands is considered bad luck by many locals and is deeply connected to Hawaiian beliefs about Pele, the goddess of volcanoes.

Final Checklist Before You Go

• Is your ID packed and up to date?
• Have you confirmed reservations and printed a few paper copies just in case?
• Do you have enough sun protection (hat, SPF, sunglasses)?
• Did you leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs or gifts?
• Have you packed your aloha spirit?

Packing for a tropical vacation to Hawai‘i doesn’t need to be stressful. With a little planning, you’ll be ready to soak up sun, adventure, and plenty of ono (delicious) eats. So take a deep breath, double-check your list, and get ready to explore the islands the right way.