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The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List: 11 Items You Must Bring

    Aerial Photography at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa Aerial Photography at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa/Oyster


    Whether you’re heading to Na Pali Coast State Park or relaxing along the beaches of Hanauma Bay, Hawaii’s consistent climate makes it a relatively easy destination to pack for. With average temperatures hovering between 65 and 85 degrees year-round, it’s no surprise that the beautiful islands remain popular regardless of the season. However, the state’s distinct micro-climates mean that you have lush rainforests, sandy beaches, and deserts all within a tiny area. If your itinerary includes multiple destinations, it can be hard to decide what to pack. But luckily, we're here to point you in the right direction. Here’s our ultimate Hawaii packing list.


    With additional reporting by Toby Orton

  • 1. Prana Water-Repellent Long Pants

  • prana water repellant long pants


    Jeans are always an option, but most travelers to Hawaii will get more use out of a lightweight, slim-fit trouser. Great for exploring lava fields or wearing to a traditional luau, this style from Prana

  • 2. Levi's Light Jacket

  • Levis light jacket

    Levis light jacket

    While you’ll never be downright chilly in Hawaii (unless you’re atop Mauna Kea at dawn -- there can be snow up there!), a light jacket can come in handy for cooler evenings and rainy days. Choose a packable cotton option like this lightweight anorak

  • 3. One-Piece Swimsuit

  • One piece swimsuit

    One piece swimsuit

    A no-brainer, but not all swimsuits are created equal. For a week in Hawaii, you’ll want at least three suits. You can never go wrong with a versatile one-piece, which will ensure coverage for any water sports or activities. Add a few mix-and-match tops and bottoms. Don’t forget to pack a flowy caftan

  • 4. Columbia Coral Point Shorts

  • Columbia coral point shorts

    Columbia coral point shortsOverall, Hawaii is a casual place, and you won’t regret having a few different pairs of shorts for various outings. We recommend taking at least two pairs: one pair of casual shorts that are useful for hiking

  • 5. Everlane Linen Scoop-Neck Tee

  • Everlane scoop neck linen tee

    Everlane scoop neck linen tee

    Quick drying, breathable, and airy, linen is the perfect fabric for a warm climate like Hawaii. Naturally hypoallergenic, the properties of linen mean that moisture is wicked away when you perspire (read: less itching and more comfort). We love this linen scoop-neck tee from Everlane

  • 6. SSLR Printed Button-Down Hawaiian Shirt

  • Hawaiian printed button down shirt

    Hawaiian printed button down shirt

    No, we’re not talking Margaritaville here. The days of the over-the-top, busy prints are over. Look for chic, restrained tropical prints that won’t make you look like a parrot. We’re particularly fans of this pineapple number

  • 7. Wallaroo Wide Brim Hat

  • wallaroo wide brim hat

    wallaroo wide brim hatA good hat is a must for days spent at the beach or hiking. A regular baseball cap can suffice, but if you’re looking for a style upgrade, choose a versatile sun hat, ideally with UPF. This model

  • 8. Ballop Spider Skin Water Shoes

  • ballop spider skin water shoes

    ballop spider skin water shoes

    If you plan on doing any reef exploration (or will be near Hawaii’s jagged volcanic rocks), it’s worth packing a pair of lightweight, durable water shoes

  • 9. Ray-Ban Polarized Sunglasses

  • ray ban polarized sunglasses

    ray ban polarized sunglassesIf you’ve ever been on the fence about purchasing a pair of polarized sunglasses, one trip to Hawaii will make you a believer. You can’t go wrong with a stylish, classic pair of Ray-Bans

  • 10. Birkenstock Mayari Birko-Flor Sandal

  • Mayari Birko-Flor Sandal

    Mayari Birko-Flor Sandal

    Flip-flops have their place, but if you plan on embarking on any gentle excursions in Hawaii, you’re going to need a proper pair of open sandals. And what brand marries fashion and function better than German shoe manufacturer Birkenstock? Rugged enough for the trails and stylish enough for the restaurant, these Mayari Birko-Flor sandals

  • 11. Syncwire Waterproof Phone Pouch

  • syncwire waterproof phone pouch

    syncwire waterproof phone pouch

    Between the beaches and jungles, it can be tough to keep your phone safe in Hawaii, especially if you prefer taking photos on your device. Instead of shelling out for a waterproof camera, pack a simple waterproof phone pouch


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