The Best Hawaii Packing List and What to Wear in Hawaii This Year

This Hawaii packing list breaks down exactly what to wear in Hawaii on vacation, with a free checklist and outfit inspiration.

With beach days, waterfall hikes, snorkeling excursions and evening luaus all in the vacation plans, you may be wondering what to pack for Hawaii on your first trip. Shopping and packing for Hawaii can be a fun way to build excitement before you fly off to the Aloha State, and this Hawaii packing list will make sure you stay organized and arrive prepared.

The guide below has all the things to pack for Hawaii, from swimsuits and resort wear to the perfect reef-safe sunscreens. Scroll to the end for handy info on Hawaii’s weather and seasons, what activities to prepare for, and how to pack in a carry-on for Hawaii, even if you’re staying for a week or longer.

We’ve also included a free Hawaii packing checklist you can pin to use later when it’s time to load up the suitcase. This list works for visiting Oahu, Maui, Kauai or the Big Island.

Use this island-hopping itinerary for your first visit to Hawaii

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What to Pack for Hawaii

Use this Hawaii packing checklist while shopping and preparing for your trip to the islands. We’ve included everything from outfits to beach essentials to camera gear you may want to pack for Hawaii.

Beach and Swimwear for Hawaii

Your Hawaii packing checklist should start with beachwear because you’ll probably be spending a lot of time on the sand. Bring at least two swimsuits so you can dry one out each day. But also don’t forget some breezy Hawaiian attire to layer on top for the transition from poolside to swimming to grabbing lunch.

Swimwear | Bring two or more bathing suits for Hawaii so one can be drying while you wear the second. If you plan to try surfing or other water sports, it helps to have a supportive or fuller coverage option. One of my favorite swimsuits has a sports bra-like top that transitions easily from swimming to hiking to paddleboarding.

Swim cover-ups | Breezy dresses make it easy to go from beachside to lunch without having to return to the hotel to change, while a sarong is perfect for slipping on at the beach or pool for quick trips to the snack bar.

Beach shorts | Bring lightweight shorts that dry easily for throwing on over your swimsuit. Board shorts are handy for kayaking and surfing, too.

Rash guard | These are great for surfing or other water sports and also offer some extra sun coverage on the beach. They aren't a necessity, though, if your beach trips aren't very active.

Sightseeing and Daytime Hawaii Outfits

Pack a few casual Hawaiian summer dresses to wear to lunch at your resort, out sightseeing, or on mini Hawaii road trips. The islands are pretty casual and afternoon temps are warm, so anything from shorts to sundresses are acceptable for most daytime activities.

Sundresses | Sundresses and Hawaii dress prints can be worn for the beach or accessorized up with cute sandals and a cardigan for shopping and poolside dinners.

Shorts | If you’re packing light, stick to neutral colored shorts like white, tan, or navy to match bright colored tops. Linen shorts dry out faster than denim so they're ideal for wearing to the beach.

Tops | Lightweight tops and t-shirts pair well with shorts and can layer over dresses to mix and match.

Rompers | Rompers are an easy two-in-one outfit to throw on for brunch, sightseeing and day trips. They slip on easily over a swimsuit, too.

Activewear for Hawaii

You Hawaii packing list should include activewear for outdoor adventures and exercising. What to pack for Hawaii hiking will depend on the length and difficulty of the trail, with some being manageable in your beach clothes and shorts and others requiring proper footwear, rain gear or even warm attire.

Tank tops and sports bras | Sports bras and tank tops make a great base layer for hiking. Throw a long sleeve t-shirt or rain jacket on top if it's a little chilly or windy.

Leggings | Leggings or athletic shorts are perfect for Hawaii hiking. For warm days you'll be more comfortable in the latter, but leggings come in handy for hiking at higher elevations on Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.

Long sleeves | A long-sleeved top, track jacket or popover will keep you warm in places like Upcountry Maui or on early morning hikes.

Rain jacket | Throw on a rain jacket or windbreaker if you're visiting in the wet season. These can also come in handy on windy boat rides.

Warm clothes | It might sound crazy, but you may need a heavier jacket or thermal layer for a couple of activities in Hawaii, particularly if you plan to visit the volcanic summits on Maui and the Big Island during the colder times of day. Watching the sunrise at the peak of Haleakala is a popular activity, and it can be below freezing up there throughout the year. Consider a packable puffer jacket to help you stay warm without taking up too much space. You can also layer your hiking clothes for extra warmth.

Dinner and Evening Wear for Hawaii

Decide whether you will reserve any formal dinners before planning what to wear in Hawaii for the evenings. Most restaurants here are fairly casual and many have open-air dining rooms. But, you may want to have a meal at a fancier resort eatery or dress up just for fun. 

Dresses | Maxi dresses and skirts are perfect for Hawaii's cooler evenings. A Hawaii vacation is the perfect opportunity to wear all the colorful floral prints.

Jumpsuits and rompers | Jumpsuits also keep you warmer in the evening, perfect for all those breezy oceanfront dining rooms.

Floral blouses | Tops in bright colors and floral prints liven up neutral skirts and pants for luaus and dinners.

White pants | White pants aren't just for the summer in Hawaii. Light colors and breezy fabrics fit the atmosphere all year long.

Wrap | A light cardigan, wrap or pashmina is a must for cooler and breezy evenings in Hawaii.

Hawaii Accessories and Jewelry

Hawaii vacations are the perfect chance to bust out all the fun floral accents, bright jewelry and stylish sunglasses. They don’t take up much packing space, so accessories also help mix up outfits if you’re packing light.

Sun hat | A wide-brimmed, panama or straw hat gives much-needed sun protection at the pool and beach in Hawaii. A baseball cap also works for sightseeing or hiking.

Sunglasses | Polarized sunglasses are best for that beating Hawaii sun. I recommend bringing a cheaper pair in case they get lost or damaged at the beach.

Beachy jewelry | Colorful jewelry adds a fun pop to your Hawaii outfits. Buy some on the island for a souvenir and to support local businesses.

Shoes for Hawaii

Shoes typically take up a lot of space in your suitcase, but for Hawaii, you can bring just a pair of sneakers and some sandals for day and night. Wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane if you’re packing light.

Beach sandals | Casual sandals or flip-flops work for the pool and beach.

Dressy sandals | You may want a second pair of dressier sandals or wedges to keep sand-free for the evening.

Water shoes | You can get by without water shoes, but I find they come in handy on rocky beaches and out on boat trips.

Sneakers | Tennis shoes are handy for hiking and walking around sightseeing. Many trails in Hawaii are not suitable for sandals.

Flats | If your feet get cold easily, you may want closed toe shoes for the evening. Fancy heels aren't needed and can even be tricky along uneven streets or beach paths.

Gear to Pack for Hawaii

These are some extra things you’ll want to pack for Hawaii. If you forget something, stores on the islands have all the beach necessities, but some items will cost more.

Packing cubes | I always use packing cubes to keep my suitcase organized and my clothes compressed for space. These can also be great for a beach trip to keep wet and sandy items separate from clean clothes. Shop for packing cubes.

Beach bag | You'll need a bag or backpack for carrying all your towels, snacks and toys to the pool and beach. A dry bag also comes in handy for kayaking and boat rides or a backpack can do double duty for adventuring and hiking.

Reef safe sunscreen | Reef-safe sunscreen is a must in Hawaii. Many popular sunscreen brands have chemicals that contribute to coral bleaching and Hawaii has banned the sale of sun products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Beach towels | Check with your hotel or condo to see if you'll have towels available. Otherwise, packable beach towels are a must. Smaller microfiber options are also perfect to bring out hiking when you might encounter a waterfall or swimming hole.

Snorkel set | Snorkels do take up packing space, but you might want to bring a set if you’re planning to snorkel a lot. Gear is usually provided on snorkeling excursions, but you'll have to rent it at beaches, which adds up each day. Shop for snorkel sets.

Reusable water bottle | Refillable hydro flasks save plastic and save you from having to buy lots of bottles. The tap water in Hawaii is safe to consume.

Toiletries | Makeup is at your discretion, but make sure you have an SPF chapstick and SPF moisturizer to protect your skin from the sun. Sea and pool water is a nightmare for hair, so you might also want a leave in conditioner.

Waterproof phone case | Underwater pouches help keep your phone dry on boat trips and sand-free on the beach.

Beach safe | A beach safe or locker helps keep electronics and money safe on the sand while you’re in the water. It's not foolproof, but it might bring some peace of mind. Leaving valuables secured at the hotel is the safest option.

GoPro and camera | Waterproof action cameras are perfect for documenting hikes, boat rides and other adventures in Hawaii. You may also want your DSLR or mirrorless camera for capturing the incredible island scenery.

Hawaii Packing List Tips

Keep reading for tips for packing for Hawaii. We’ll break down the weather by season and answer frequently asked questions about what to bring to Hawaii.

Hawaii Activities

Generally, your Hawaii packing list should include swimwear and beach gear, comfortable outfits for sightseeing, and some casual evening attire. Aside from that, the activities you plan to do will help you figure out what to wear in Hawaii.

Before packing for Hawaii, consider whether you will go hiking, try any water sports, make fancy dinner reservations, or visit somewhere colder like Upcountry Maui. The Hawaii packing list above covers most of these scenarios so you don’t forget anything important. You can use the checklist below as you pack to help you remember everything!

Hawaii Weather and Seasons

Warm days and cool evenings are the norm in Hawaii year-round, with only small variations between seasons.

The dry season, May through October, is the warmest, with highs typically in the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. In the rainy season, November through April, daytime temperatures often peak in the high 70s and evenings are about 10 degrees cooler.

Every island has a variety of microclimates, though. On Kauai, for example, the driest spot on the island is just a few miles from one of the wettest spots on earth. And on Maui, the top of the Haleakala volcano can be below freezing at night while beach temps on the southern side are in the 80s. Generally, the leeward side of each island will be driest and have calmer waters, while the windward coasts will be a bit rainier with wilder waves, especially in winter.

What do these variations mean for packing for Hawaii? Well, it’s best to bring light layers for evenings, a rain jacket for hiking or windy boat rides, and a warm outfit for visiting the higher elevations on Maui and the Big Island.

How Much to Pack for Hawaii

Whether you pack heavy or light for Hawaii is up to you and your travel style. I typically pack in a carry-on to save on checked baggage fees, but this Hawaii packing checklist covers the main categories and you can just bring as many outfits as you wish.

If you’re staying in the same Hawaii resort the whole time, bringing a larger bag isn’t a big inconvenience, but research whether your airline charges for checked luggage so you won’t be surprised at the airport.

Packing light for Hawaii is pretty easy since it’s a warm climate and you’ll mostly need lightweight clothing. You’ll want at least two sets of swimwear so that you can dry one out each day. Washing and repeating other outfits is a great way to save space in the suitcase and many hotels and condos have laundry facilities for longer stays.

What to Wear on the Plane to Hawaii

Many travelers to Hawaii have a long plane trip, so you’ll want to dress comfortably. I typically wear leggings, a loose top, and a long sweater to stay warm. If you want to arrive vacation-ready, you could opt for a comfortable maxi dress in festive island colors.