Individual woman holding two drinks on vacation.
Individual woman holding two drinks on vacation.

What to Pack for Your Hawaii Vacation (2022)

We get no satisfaction from watching people overpack for a trip to Hawaii. But, with so much to see and do on the Hawaiian Islands, we understand why you might pack too much. As a local resident of Maui, who loves to island-hop, here is what to pack for your trip to Hawaii in 2022

Your essential packing list for Hawaii includes the following:

  • Shorts and T-shirts
  • One Gorgeous Island Style Outfit
  • Comfortable Footwear: sandals and hiking or walking shoes
  • Swimsuit (of course)
  • Sun-Protective Clothing
  • Mineral-Based Sunscreen
  • UV-Protective Sunglasses
  • Backpack
  • Water Bottle
  • Beach Bag
  • Natural Bug Repellent (Kauai)
  • Warm Clothes (Maui and Big Island)

We aren’t loading this article full of things you need to buy. We focus on what you plan to do so you can pack the right stuff for your Hawaii vacation. Especially if you’re bringing the family, you want to keep your packing list to the essentials.

Read on for the right packing list for your Hawaii itinerary, based on what island you plan to visit, written by Jordan Fromholz.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
The Hawaii Vacation Vlog Author
Jordan Fromholz

Aloha! I’m Jordan, co-founder of The Hawaii Vacation Guide, where my wife Erica and I share insider tips, honest reviews, and personal stories to help you plan the perfect Hawaiian getaway. After living on both Maui and Oʻahu, we’ve spent years exploring the islands with our family—snorkeling, hiking, and learning about the ʻāina and Hawaiian culture. Our goal? To make your dream trip easy, meaningful, and unforgettable. From honeymooners to families to 50th anniversary trips, we're here to help you! Thanks for joining us on the journey—aloha and happy travels!

Media Mentions

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

Media Mentions

Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

Naomi Hudetz
Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

Media Mentions

People with alpha-gal syndrome show allergic symptoms such as rash, nausea and vomiting after eating such meat.

Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter