Top 10 Essential Travel Gear for Hawaii

What to Pack for the Perfect Island Adventure.

Planning a trip to Hawaii? Make sure you’re ready for paradise with the best travel gear for Hawaii’s beaches, hikes, and waterfalls. From reef-safe sunscreen and lightweight snorkel sets to waterproof phone cases and compact beach towels, these must-have items keep your island vacation effortless and eco-friendly.

Whether you’re exploring Maui’s Road to Hana, hiking Diamond Head on Oahu, or relaxing on Kauai’s golden beaches, this Hawaii packing list covers everything you need for comfort, safety, and unforgettable memories.

Discover the top 10 Hawaii travel essentials that experienced travelers never leave behind — and start your tropical adventure the smart way. 🌺

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Description: Sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to marine ecosystems. Mineral-based formulas are often reef-safe.

Essential for Hawaii: Hawaii has banned sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate to protect its coral reefs, so this is mandatory. 

Full-Face Snorkeling Gear

Description: A mask that covers the entire face, allowing you to breathe through both your nose and mouth naturally, with a panoramic view of the underwater world.

Essential for Hawaii: An easier way to snorkel for beginners and those who find traditional masks uncomfortable, allowing for longer and more immersive exploration of Hawaii’s diverse marine life. 

Sun hat with UV Protection UPF 50+ 

Description: A hat with a wide brim that provides a high level of protection against harmful UV rays.

Essential for Hawaii: Hawaii’s sun is very strong. A UPF 50+ hat offers crucial protection for your face, neck, and ears during beach days and outdoor activities. 

Quick-Dry Microfiber Towel 

Description: A compact and lightweight towel made of microfiber that dries quickly.

Essential for Hawaii: Much more efficient than traditional cotton towels for beach and pool use. It dries fast and takes up less space in your bag, making it easy to carry for daily activities. 

Mini First Aid Kit for Travel

Description: A small kit containing basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and motion sickness medication.

Essential for Hawaii: For addressing minor cuts, scrapes, and other discomforts that can occur while hiking or during water activities. 

Quick-dry Lightweight Water Shoes

Description: Water shoes made of quick-drying material that are comfortable for walking on rocky shorelines or in shallow waters.

Essential for Hawaii: Protects your feet from sharp rocks and coral. They are lightweight and dry quickly after being used for activities like snorkeling or exploring tide pools. 

Phone lanyard

Description: A strap that attaches to your phone and can be worn around your neck or wrist.

Essential for Hawaii: Allows you to keep your phone secure and accessible while keeping your hands free for activities like taking photos or navigating, especially near water. 

Travel Vacuum Bags with Electric Pump 

Description: Bags that allow you to remove air from your clothes, compressing them to save space in your luggage, and include an electric pump for easy use.

Essential for Hawaii: Useful for packing souvenirs or multiple outfits without taking up too much space in your suitcase. 

Waterproof USB-C Power Bank

Description: A portable battery pack designed to be resistant to water, which can charge your devices multiple times.

Essential for Hawaii: A must-have for keeping your phone and other devices charged during long days exploring or on boat trips where water damage is a risk. 

8-port USB charger

Description: A single power adapter with multiple USB ports to charge several devices simultaneously.

Essential for Hawaii: Ideal for hotel 

Top 10 Travel Gears for Hawaii