What to Pack for Hawaii and Why (Advice from a Local)

One of the most common questions asked about Hawaii is "What should I pack for Hawaii?" Most of the things you'll need for your vacation can be purchased here, but I thought it would be helpful to share some common items that I'd recommend bringing to Hawaii and, more importantly, why. You'll be able to buy most of these items in Hawaii, but if you're a planner or don't want the added cost and stress, I figure it's easier to just pack these things before you get here.

Please let me know if I missed anything in the comments below.

Intro - 0:00
#1 - To Avoid Using Chopsticks - 0:23
#2 - In Case You Go Shopping - 1:42
#3 - While You Wait at the Airport Gate - 2:21
#4 - So You Don't Get Blisters - 3:46
#5 - For Those Fun Beach Days - 4:44
#6 - To Save You Some Money - 5:50
#7 - For the Rain - 6:24
#8 - To Avoid Skin Peeling - 7:17
#9 - For Those Hot Days - 8:06
#10 - You'll Thank Me For This One - 8:38
Mahalo! - 9:08

Filmed on the Canon Vixia HF G60.

[HelloFromHawaii]

Just wanted to offer some practical advice on what to bring to Hawaii if you're traveling here. Given the recent events that are happening in Hawaii, I hope everyone is staying safe.

[happycook]

The first time I lived in the tropics, I suffered because I didn't know. Ladies go for cotton underwear, cotton skirts, rayon or cotton billowy dresses, lightweight jacket for air conditioning or sun protection, 1 pair leggings to use against mosquitoes at night, bug spray, wide hat that ties under the chin for wind. I found a cotton sports bra to be better than other types. Plan to hand wash underwear or bring enough because you will sweat a lot often changing twice a day Don't bring jeans, synthetic clothing, formal dress (unless there is an occasion), etc. Get an umbrella that blocks sun or rain. I have a Totes one. PS: for ladies of a certain age a folding fan is awesome. His advice is most excellent!

[frankesantos]

BTW a lot of airlines will not let you take an extra lithium ion battery in your checked luggage, they go in carry-on only. It's an explosion hazard.

[mindibear]

If you’re traveling solo don’t forget a waterproof pouch for your keys and wallet when snorkeling or in the ocean. Also a waterproof backpack when it starts to rain during a hike.

[kelvinyschun]

Great video...
Bring also humbleness, smiles and patience... slow paced Hawaiian time ... Shaka and Peace sign...Share the Aloha and Ohana
Mahalo!

[stevenrich]

Brah you forgot two really important items: some humility, remember you are a guest here and lots patience because the pace of life is much slower. Aloha!

[willnaplesfl]

Great suggestions I wouldn’t have considered the common items!
Your whacky local character is fun and makes for a good quick break. Maybe he could do a class on pidgin?

[dozer]

I end up buying sunscreen when I get there. Sure it’ll be more expensive, but it also makes sure it’s environmentally safer than the ones on the mainland. Saves space in my luggage too. I also try to have carry on only to be faster and lighter. My snorkeling gear fits fine in a duffle bag, and I travel light on clothes. Shorts, slippas, “bibadeez”, toothbrush etc. I also try to sleep in shirts that I end up donating at the end of the trip. Frees up space in my luggage again. Good info in this video, especially about utensils. I haven’t been keeping up since it’s been 3 years since I’ve been.

[vkwano]

Had my worst mosquito encounter doing a hike in Kauai. Came out with over 50 bites. No kidding about bug spray

[drivehard]

Good to know about the utensils. Thank you! I travel with a set of Snowpeak Titanium Chopstix.

[rickthibodeau]

Great information! Mahalo! Some one mentioned Amazon sells a set of travel utensils that come in a travel bag. I think I'm going to pick up a couple for out trip next Spring. I'm from Maine and our state enacted the same ban on single use plastics as well as styrofoam containers and straws. Everyone is still getting used to it.

[myriamcastillo]

I pick up a reusable shopping bag when I vacation. instant souvenir that I won't regret and it makes hopping later a joyful memory of my vacation :)

[barberjr]

Love the UNC water bottle in the background! I am an alumni from UNC and live in greeley currently. Pretty small world! Haha

[makulewahine]

Good advice. I didn't realize that Hawaii was making those ecological changes. Here in WA plastic bags have been banned for awhile (although with covid they have come back for awhile). My car is full of reusable bags. I think it's great that they don't automatically hand out throw away utensils. Be prepared. Also, keep with the pidgin. I LOVE it. Humor is badly needed a this time.

[bilguana]

I prefer Teva saddles to slippas. They stay on the feet even when wet and I have done some basic hikes in them and are great for stream crossings.

[miyakegaijin]

1/2 joking 1/2 serious
Get a Walmart porta potty from Hawaii and bring a potty pop-up tent from home. McDonald’s and Jack in the Box do not open restroom for customers. Also if you hate dirty beach bathrooms with 4 ft high walls and no doors, your own potty room might be preferred. If they shutdown beaches and parks they will shutdown restrooms. You can still swim in the ocean on an empty beach but cannot rest on sand and go restroom.

[gordlockwood]

Last time I brought warm clothes for Haleakalā. This time I am bringing more. 10, 000 feet and windy = board shorts and t shirt will leave you a frozen corpse with a sunburn. Saw it. It was hilarious and sad at same time!

[cristycastro]

A Large Tote Bag, Hats and Sunglasses are really good suggestions!! Warm Aloha!🌈🌺🤙

[gingermonroe]

Aloe n hydrocortisone cream n plenty of
Kala that's money

[doninhawaii]

Credit cards and cash. ???? Just kidding. Good suggestions Chris!!!👍🤙💯👊