How to pack for a week in hawaii

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Many folks are really confused about how to pack for a one- or two-week trip to Hawaii, often thousands of miles from home. We hope that these few ideas will help you out.

Here’s How

Remember that Hawaii has a tropical climate. The temperatures vary only about 10 degrees. If you are visiting the windward (eastern) side of the islands you will see some rain so plan accordingly. If you’re visiting the leeward (western) side of the islands the temperatures will be much warmer and the weather much drier. Check out our feature on the Weather in Hawaii.
Evenings can be cool especially if there is a breeze. Be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket.
If you plan to explore the higher elevations such as Haleakala on Maui or Mauna Kea on Hawaii’s Big Island, you may wish to bring a warm sweater and windbreaker also. Temperatures at the summits can drop to the low 30’s.
Swimsuits are a must, as are shorts, short-sleeved shirts, light dresses, sandals, thongs and some good walking shoes. If you plan on riding horseback, be sure to bring some jeans, heavy shoes and a hat.
There is no real need for a suit in Hawaii. Even at most fancy restaurants and night spots a nice shirt (including a nice Hawaiian print shirt) and a pair of khaki’s or Dockers will do just fine. A sports jacket is only needed at the most upscale restaurants.
Sunblock, insect repellent, sunglasses and a hat are a must. The sun is very intense in Hawaii and you don’t want to ruin your vacation by getting sunburn. Be very careful on your first day in the sun, it’s when you’ll burn most easily. Check out our feature on How to Avoid Getting a Sunburn.
If you plan to explore Hawaii’s waters bring your snorkel and mask or better yet wait until you arrive. These can be rented very cheaply and often are available for free at many hotels. If you wear glasses basic prescription masks are available at most locations.
Leave ample room to bring things back. Most tourists buy some aloha-wear and other souvenirs that you won’t find on the mainland. Remember that you can ship items home also, which is often much easier. The postal service now has flat-rate boxes which make shipping of most items very easy and affordable.
Hawaii is the most beautiful place on earth. Remember your camera, memory cards, and charger. You will find a lot of use for a video camera also.
Put important papers (tickets, reservation confirmations, traveler’s cheques), all medications, spare glasses, a change of clothing and any other valuables in your carry-on bag.
Don’t forget your favorite tour book. You’ve probably purchased one or two to help you plan your trip. The Moon Hawaii Travel Guide is an excellent all-around guidebook. Most tour books are now available in digital versions also which can be accessed on your smartphone or tablet.
Remember to bring a pair of binoculars. If you’re planning and nature adventure such as whale watching, these are a must.

Tips

Don’t over-pack. Travel as lightly as possible.
Leave plenty of room in your suitcase for all of the things you will bring home.
Make a list of things to bring and check the list before you leave home.

For more in-depth help, check out our feature Packing For Your Hawaii Vacation.

Hawaii is one of our favorite destinations. The culture, food…and the weather is incredible.

When we visit, which is usually somewhere between 2 – 4 weeks (you need this much time to get to at least 3 different islands!) we only bring a carry on!

You ask how we fit everything we need for more than a week in paradise in a carry-on bag? We ask what more do you need than a bathing suit?

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

As I mentioned above, really all you need is a bathing suit, coverup and flip flops. But lets splurge a little and bring some small extras to spoil ourselves.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Caroline’s Carry On

4 sundresses
2 t-shirts
4 bathing Suits 🙂
2 exercise outfits
1 pair of running crops
1 sweater for evenings
2 sports bras
Tennis shoes
Flip Flops
Teva Sandals
Flats
Hotel Slippers
Rain jacket
Underwear/Socks

Josh’s Carry On

3 t-shirts
2 pairs of shorts
1 bathing suit
2 long sleeve shirts (nice enough to wear to fancier dinners)
1 lightweight henley
1 sweatshirt
2 exercise shirts
1 pair running shorts
5 pairs underwear
Socks
Tennis shoes
Flip Flops
Espadrilles
Hotel slippers
Rain jacket

Toiletries

I’ve almost completely stopped traveling with toiletries, unless they are special ones I know I can’t get or I am going to a new country and don’t know what to expect. Especially if you are traveling for more than 2 weeks it’s cheaper to simply stop by the store once you arrive and pick up shampoo, conditioner etc.

Toothbrush
Travel size toothpaste
Make up for women (…or guys I guess if that’s your thing)
Hair brush/comb
Contact lens supplies (Josh uses Clear Care which has been referred to as the “golden handcuffs” of lens care, it’s very difficult to find internationally)
Any specific medication you may need

*Most everything else you can purchase when you get there and use it for the 2+ weeks you are visiting.

What We Actually Wore

Mainly we wore a bathing suit, flip flops and a cover up (or t-shirt) every day.

We usually do a load of laundry weekly, but like I said the main thing we are wearing is our bathing suits so there isn’t a whole lot of laundry to do. At night we will put on our nicer clothes to go to dinner and wear those for the evening, but Hawaii is so casual unless you are going to a very upscale dinner you can usually get away with dressy/casual look. We almost always go on a few longer hikes in Hawaii which our favorite way to see the best scenery and is where our exercise clothes and tennis shoes come in handy.

If you aren’t in your bathing suit, women you can wear your sundresses every day and men you will usually just throw on your shorts with a t-shirt, flip flops are almost always acceptable.

Life is easy in Hawaii, don’t overcomplicate it with a bunch of luggage!

Do you travel with just a carry-on? How do you pack? Let us know in the comments!

Comments

My parents have managed to master the traveling just with a carry-on thing, but I don’t think I’m quite there yet!

I’ve mastered the art of packing in a carry-on for tropical destinations. Basically, I just bring enough clothes for one week and just do laundry if it’s a longer trip. I have no idea how to fit jackets etc into a carry-on, though.

Jan Augsburger says

I love to pack in a carry on. I have everything I need. I have traveled to Italy three times with a carry on. I usually can only go for one week but I add one day for travel. so I pack 4 outfits and wear them twice. I put each outfit in an extra large zip lock and sit on it which makes it very flat. I put my accessories in four small bags to go with the outfits. In one compartment I have a folded bag that turns into another carry on. My purchases go in the extra carry on and I fold my purse in it when flying home. I use 3oz shampoo and sample cosmetics. I make sure the hotels I stay in have a blow dryer. I have always gone in the early spring or fall so I have taken a weather proof jacket. The shoes I choose are always waterproof and there are a lot of really stylish boots and shoes that are waterproof. This is my first trip to the tropics and it’s a new experience for me.

We only travel with carry on’s, and have for a number of years. France , England, Ireland, Hawaii. 2 weeks each.
I use travel size anything I can get. I will take casual 4 outfits, 1 dressy. 2 pair shoes, light jacket, if I need heavier coat I’ll carry it. ( usually go in warmer weather), besides underwear and hair items, travel pillow, small throw( like airlines use) sometimes they don’t have enough. For my bathroom items I will use two bags one for items I need to take out at check in and the other for dry items. One pouch for jewelry etc. tuck in purse or pocket in bag.
I always use small purse instead of my medium size, and don’t have to worry about items I don’t need and getting lost or keeping in rooms. I can tuck it into a larger carryon bag that I keep with me under seat.( that holds a ton of hard to pack things curling iron, neck pillow, etc., I have room for I-pad, magazine, snack and drink.. . . If I run out of space in my carry on case, I will use the vacuum bags and can get a lot more in. I even take a small pillow besides my neck pillow I do use the vacuum bag for that. ( I have a hard time sleeping on different pillows.) Usually I will roll my clothes they fit better, if I have trouble then I use the vacuum bags. I’ve learned over the years that most people always over pack
I love traveling by carry on. No line waiting, No luggage carrousel waiting. grab and go.

Start with Shorts and Tanks

With temperatures averaging in the high 70s and low to middle 80s all year, Hawaii is not a place where people dress in lots of layers. Pack several versions of your favorite comfortable summer outfit. For some people, that means walking shorts and a long-sleeved tee; for others, it’s cutoffs and a tank top. No matter the style, pack five pairs of shorts and plan to wear each pair twice. Bring seven or eight casual tops. Exploring Hawaii can be sweaty, so some of your shirts may only be good for one wear during the trip.

Add Underwear, Swimwear, PJs and Socks

Don’t count on having easy laundry access while vacationing in Hawaii, and don’t waste any prime sightseeing time stuck in a laundromat. To that end, bring 10 to 12 sets of underwear, two sets of pajamas and two to three bathing suits. Women may want to bring one or two bathing suit coverups, too.

Pack ankle socks made of synthetic materials, which are better than cotton when it comes to blister prevention. For a relaxed beach vacation, only a few pairs of socks may be necessary. But if you’re planning to explore Hawaii’s cities, hike to Oahu’s waterfalls or otherwise be active, pack a pair of socks for each of the 10 days.

Go Light with the Layers

It’s a mistake to pack nothing but shorts and T-shirts for a trip to Hawaii. While the weather is notoriously consistent and warm, rain is always possible, especially on the northeastern part of any of Hawaii’s islands. Early mornings and nights can be cool, especially close to the ocean and at higher elevations. For a 10-day trip, one or two pairs of long pants should be sufficient. Pack one light sweater and a lightweight, hooded, water-resistant jacket too.

(Maybe) Dress Up

Golfers have to plan ahead when packing for Hawaii. Mesh shorts and a T-shirt won’t cut it at many of the state’s golf clubs, so bring a polo shirt and dress pants or shorts if you plan to hit the links. Better yet, check the dress code at any club you’re hoping to visit.

Big cities like Honolulu and Oahu have tons of upscale restaurants and clubs. Consider packing more dress pants and polo shirts for nights out, or bring just the dress pants and buy an aloha shirt – what mainlanders think of as Hawaiian shirts – when you arrive. People really do wear them everywhere. Women may also want to pack a few sundresses or other dressier attire.

Pack Three or Four Pairs of Shoes

Flip-flops (called slippers by the locals, or usually just “slippa”) are the quintessential Hawaiian footwear. They’re comfortable, casual and perfect for wearing to the beach. Pack a pair of those, plus a pair of more durable and supportive sandals for walking around town or popping into a restaurant. Walking or hiking shoes are must-haves. Serious golfers, bring a pair of golf shoes. Consider bringing a pair of dress shoes if your sandals and sneakers are too casual to pair with a dressier outfit.

Finish With Assorted Accessories

Sunglasses and a brimmed hat provide necessary protection from Hawaii’s nearly ever-present sun, and sunscreen is equally as important. If suitcase space is limited, it’s easy to pick up these things after you arrive. Likewise, toiletries like razors, deodorant and shampoo are readily available in Hawaii, but you may prefer to bring your own from home.

Don’t bother bringing beach towels, even though you’ll almost certainly need them, because they take up a great deal of suitcase space. Many visitors to Hawaii take the towels from their hotel rooms down to the beach. If your hotel forbids that, pick up a cheap towel from one of the souvenir stands that crowd Hawaii’s popular beach areas. Remember to bring a small backpack or other day bag to cart your magazines, sunglasses and snacks down to the sand.

Disclosure

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

January 22, 2019

I’m off to spend a week in and around Honolulu, Oahu today and am taking only a carry-on and tote bag with me. I’m not exactly a jet-setter and tend to over-pack but absolutely hate checking luggage. Between weighing, fees, and the dreaded wait at the carousel, I’m just over it. Been over it. My dad’s bags got lost on the way back from our trip to Nigeria last spring, which was all the additional motivation I needed to stick to carry-ons whenever possible. Thankfully, packing for Hawaii in a carry-on isn’t too difficult because warm weather = skimpier clothing. 🙂 To be clear, I probably definitely still over-packed BUT everything fit and that’s all that matters, right? Check out all I squeezed into 42 linear inches and how I did it, below. Hint: compression packing cubes. I’ve also linked a couple of hot items like this flattering bikini and colorful romper coverup (both pictured below) because they’re on sale and might be gone by the time I get back!

How to Use Compression Packing Cubes

I documented my packing process on my IG story the other night and got a few questions about it. I’m using this set of compression packing cubes for travel to Oahu and they are magic! I squeezed three of them into this carry-on spinner , which I also highly recommend. It’s lightweight, hard-sided, expands, and is fully size compliant for domestic and international flights–handles and wheels included. I found the spinner at Marshalls and it’s available online for the same price (under $50) at TJ Maxx via the link above. The packing cubes are an Amazon find. Each one uses dual zippers to squeeze their contents extremely flat, which enabled me to get all the clothes, shoes, etc. listed below into just a little bit of space. To pack them, I simply rolled up each item of clothing as tightly as I could and filled each cube before zipping, squishing, and zipping again. This set of cubes also comes with a shoe bag, but I did not use it.

What’s In My Carry-On

Compression Packing Cubes
6 Tanks & Tees
5 Pairs of Shorts & Leggings
9 Dresses, Rompers & Co-ords
7 Swimsuits & 4 Coverups including this bikini from Amazon & this romper (extra 10% off w/code ASOSSALEPLZ)
4 Pairs of Shoes (Sneakers, Heels & 2 Flat Sandals)
2 Head Wraps
Satin-Lined Ball Cap
Cross-body Bag
Fanny Pack
Lightweight Tripod/Bluetooth Remote
Waterproof Phone Bag
Undergarments & Pajamas
Visor

What’s In My Tote

AirPods
Backpack
Bag of Travel-Sized Toiletries:

Blue Blockers
Laptop + Charger
Makeup Bag:

Phone + Charger + Power Bank
Radiant Health Magazine (#blackgirlmagic beach read)
Sleep Mask
Sunglasses
Travel Pillow Wrap
Wallet

I’ve gone back and forth about taking this trip since my mother passed a few weeks ago but know that she would have wanted me to go. I’m looking forward to a bit of solitude in paradise and can’t wait to tell y’all all about it when I get back. There are two exciting posts scheduled to go live while I’m away and I will be sharing parts of the trip on my Instagram so be sure to follow along there. Do you plan to visit Oahu? Have tips on what to bring to Hawaii for a week? Hit me with any questions or recommendations you have below–thanks for reading!

January 22, 2019

How to Use Compression Packing Cubes

What’s In My Carry-On

Compression Packing Cubes
6 Tanks & Tees
5 Pairs of Shorts & Leggings
9 Dresses, Rompers & Co-ords
7 Swimsuits & 4 Coverups including this bikini from Amazon & this romper (extra 10% off w/code ASOSSALEPLZ)
4 Pairs of Shoes (Sneakers, Heels & 2 Flat Sandals)
2 Head Wraps
Satin-Lined Ball Cap
Cross-body Bag
Fanny Pack
Lightweight Tripod/Bluetooth Remote
Waterproof Phone Bag
Undergarments & Pajamas
Visor

What’s In My Tote

AirPods
Backpack
Bag of Travel-Sized Toiletries:

Blue Blockers
Laptop + Charger
Makeup Bag:

Phone + Charger + Power Bank
Radiant Health Magazine (#blackgirlmagic beach read)
Sleep Mask
Sunglasses
Travel Pillow Wrap
Wallet

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

The key to packing well for a vacation in Hawaii is to know two things. First, what do you already have, and second, what is easily available on the islands. This week, I read two different posts about what to pack for a vacation in Hawaii and I disagreed with both.

The list of what to bring is very simple.

* a comfortable pair of walking shoes. The weather is perfect for walking, the scenery is fantastic and nothing spoils a vacation faster than blisters (or a sun burn). Wear them on the plane. Throw in flip-flops and a pair of sandals if you already have them, if not you can get them here. You do NOT need multiple pairs of shoes.

* a swim suit. If you have a second one, bring it along. If not, don’t worry – your suit will dry in time for an afternoon swim while you are touring other sites. Or you can buy one here as a souvenir.

* your camera and charger, phone and charger, a computer if you feel the need. Some hotels still charge for internet access, so you might experiment with being unplugged for a week to see if you can survive.

* a couple pair of shorts and a couple of shirts. I found standard cotton tee-shirts to be too hot on our first visit; lightweight fabrics are more comfortable. Long sleeves offer additional protection from the sun.

* a light jacket, sweater or shawl for evenings – wear it on the plane for the chill and to save room in the bag.

* any prescription medication you require

* sun glasses – especially if they are prescription. If you don’t already have a pair, they are sold everywhere in Hawaii.

* a hat that covers your face and neck. You can purchase one here if you don’t already have one.

I would NOT pack things easily obtainable in a drug store — you can purchase small quantities in Hawaii for much less than the cost of a checked bag. This includes sun screen, aloe, first aid kit — you would have to be in a VERY remote area not to find such things easily available. It also makes no sense to buy things you don’t already own that you can get here, and then pay for the privilege of hauling them around.

With the cost of the first checked bag at $50 for some airlines, it’s time to welcome the idea that less is more — and very little is actually required to enjoy Hawaii. Pack a good attitude and you’re set!

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. Thank you, we appreciate it!

Taking a trip to the beautiful Hawaiian island of Maui? Lucky lady! Find out what to pack for Maui including clothing, shoes, swimwear, and accessories!

Written by: Sebrin Elms

Raise your hand if you’ve daydreamed of traveling to Maui once or twice (or maybe three or four times)? Perhaps you imagined yourself hiking to a secret waterfall and jumping into the cascading water? Or maybe you pictured yourself enjoying a lava flow cocktail on one of its pristine beaches.

Whatever reason brings you to Maui, Aloha!

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Hawaiian Style

Hawaii is a very laid-back culture where locals wear flip-flops and tourists bring the floppiest hats they can find. Even the most chic outfit is breezy with a bohemian or floral pattern, decked out with amazing jewels that are naturally found on the island (think pearls and shells).

Read this for our top floral print dress styles and how to wear them!

But just because the vibe is chill doesn’t mean you can’t dress up a bit! If you’re planning what to pack for Maui and want to look elegant in this beautiful landscape, put some creativity into your capsule wardrobe with prints and cuts.

For example, a vintage, floral romper or a two-piece top and skirt combo could be dressed up and still feel casual. Just remember: when in doubt, leave the heels at home!

Female travelers LOVE rompers for travel. Check out our latest capsule wardrobe collection!

Spring and Summer Weather in Maui

The optimal time to visit the island of Maui is the spring and summer months, more specifically April to September. Temperatures are in the comfortable 80s during this time and there’s very little rain.

April showers may linger, however, you’ll find this mostly on the east and west parts of the island, whereas southern and central Maui is very dry!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring and summer travel:

If you’re trying to avoid a horde of tourists, you’ll definitely want to travel from April to May! Maui sees a lot of family travel from June to August, so you might find the beaches a tad more crowded.

The great thing about what to pack for Maui this time of year is that you don’t need a lot of clothes. You’ll find that you have a ton of space in your luggage, especially if you use packing cubes. Unless you plan on having daily photoshoots by the beach (guilty).

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

When planning a trip there is always the question of What to pack for Kauai? For a vacation to Kauai it is important to remember daytime high temperatures are normally between 70°F and 80°F, with nighttime temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Lightweight clothing is advised for most people. Pack skirts, shorts, t-shirts, and cotton button-down shirts and a light jacket is also recommended for those romantic evening strolls on the beach.

Most people tend to pack to too much with them on their trips to the island. Remember you can always get the essentials here if you forget something back home. Once here, it is typical for people to be engrossed with Kauai’s beauty and flow into the laid back simple lifestyle of Kauai.

What To Pack

Casual Resort Wear
Sun-shirts
Flip Flops – Known in Hawaii as slippers
Light Jacket for those cooler nights 70°F is cool for the locals
Hiking Shoes
Small Backpack
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Camera
Photo ID
Medications
Phone charger
Sarong
Beach Towel
Slippahs Hawaiian for flip flops
Snorkel Set
Sunscreen
Hat
Beach Bag

Gifts To Bring Home

Chocolate Macadamia Nuts
Dried Fruit
100% Kauai Coffee
Ukulele
Local Jewelry
Art
Candles
Lotions
T-shirts
Books
Gifts for Family and Friends

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

So imagine your best friend has just surprised you with the best birthday gift of all time? A surprise impulse trip for the two of you to HAWAII!! For an entire week!! Now that is a best friend:) After jumping for joy and finally releasing her from that death-grip you call a “hug”, your mind immediately jumps to…..”what on earth will I pack?”

You spew out another “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” and then tell her you have a million things to do ASAP! When you get home, you are totally stumped, not to mention overwhelmed. You’re going to Hawaii, and you want to bring everything while also packing very light. How on earth do you accomplish these contradictory desires? Read on and discover a great way to jet to Hawaii with the lightest of bags without feeling like you’re forgetting something. There are 5 simple secrets:

1. Wear your heaviest shoes and clothes on board, and remember to layer, layer, layer.

After all, airplanes are notoriously cold and Hawaii is everything but. So let your wardrobe and your luggage take advantage of this brief “cold spell” we call “the flight:)” Because even though the word Hawaii may bring to mind endless beaches and tropical drinks by the pool, Hawaii actually does have some majestic landscapes that have nothing to do with the aqua blue pacific. This includes zip-lining through tropical forests, hiking up sky-scraping volcanoes, trekking along active hot springs and lava beds, and so much more. Activities like these may require hiking boots (with socks of course), pants, long sleeve shirts, and even light jackets for rainy weather. You can wear all of this on the plane, even along with a bathing suit underneath, as your “undergarments,” a hat and sunglasses in tow. That way you have the bulkiest items on your body, along with layers of lighter items, making your packed bag just that much lighter.

2. Pick a simple color palette

By this I mean go for black and white, or blue and gray, green and khaki…the list is endless. Bring a few pieces of each (tees, tanks, shorts, skirts, sundresses, capris- if you’re a woman of course). Avoid complete outfits. Face it, your trip to Hawaii is to enjoy all that the beauty that the land has to offer. It is not a trip where you want or need to pack your newest boutique clothing, or your highest end handbags. If you are single and you do end up meeting a love interest in Hawaii, chances are they will be dressed down as well and will just like you for you (as they should). No need to pack to impress. Pack to give your shoulder a break, remember this is a vacation, a getaway- so when you’re packing, look at your closet and get away! (Hehe).

3. Pack your lightest pairs of shoes (and clothes).

As is noted above, wear your hiking boots, or heavy sneakers on the flight. In your small bag, all you should have as far as footwear is concerned are your flip flops, sandals, and possibly reef shoes. All those items are small, lightweight, and compact. They can also be tucked into one another to help consolidate space. The same holds true of clothing. Wear as many of your heavier layers on board as you can without compromising the comfort of your journey. These two tips are yet another amazing way to keep your bag light and effortless.

4. Regardless of how long your trip is, pack for one week only!

So maybe you are going for more than a week, or perhaps you’re spending a week on each island?. As you pack, do not think about it as 14 days or 20 days, or however long you’re really traveling for. Consolidate it all into a one week allotment. This way you have an outfit, or a variation of a few outfits to make you appear “brand new” for seven solid days. Then use whatever washing facilities you have access to, employ the mix-and-match approach based on the color palette you brought, and switch it all up the next week. There you have it, the magical illusion of having far more in your luggage than you actually do! Your friends may even be shocked as to how you have managed to pull weeks of different outfits from your light and easy carry-on bag. Go ahead, share your secret- it will only make you look that much more creative after all.

5. Pack “Must Have” not “Just in Case” or “But I WANT to.”

This simply means essentials. Not your newest designer jewelry, your favorite high heels, or a fifth bathing suit “just in case” you somehow lose the other four! Remember, the goal here is packing light, and this means nothing except necessities. You really only need two bathing suits, one set of clothes that function for outdoor activities, one set for dinners and nights out on the town, and one set of cover-ups or light layers for dry beach and/or pool activities. Here is a helpful hint- when prepping for your trip, lay out all the clothes you want to bring and the money you plan to spend “in case.” Then take away at least half the clothes, and if you can afford to or feel more comfortable doing so, double the money. After all, money is much smaller to pack than the other half of your closet!

And there you have it, a constructive guide to packing a comprehensive yet compact tote for that Hawaiian vacay! Simple and ordinary for a destination that is anything but 🙂 Follow these guidelines and arrive on the islands prepared to lounge poolside, body surf the great waves of the beautiful Pacific, climb active volcanoes, hike through tropical forests, and enjoy a wild night on the town. And last but not least, don’t forget to wear a smile as you board that flight!

Photo Attribution

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter’s idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah’s practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: “A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories.”

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: “Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia.”

Travel Motto: “‘To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.’—Freya Stark”

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: “Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else.”

Known for hardy fishing towns and rugged natural beauty, Maine draws hikers, skiers, photographers, and lovers of the outdoors. Its summers are mild but humid, while winters are long and cold. Because the weather is often changeable, figuring out what to pack for Maine can be a challenge.

When making your Maine packing list, you can forget about fancy shoes or dressy clothes. Instead, pack strategically with plenty of layers, comfortable shoes, and protection against sun, rain, and bugs.

I’m going to Hawaii for 2 weeks, in a few months, and looking for a comprehensive packing list! Does anyone have a thorough list? Thanks so much! I’m just afraid I’m overlooking something!

I am going to Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Lanai

3 Answers

you should tell us which island(s) and what activities you wish to do. The reason I ask is that I live on the big island which has 11 of the 14 climate zones.

EDIT: Ok, since you are going to Maui, I would pack at least one warm outfit (in the form of layers) because you may want to take a tour up to the top of Haleakala (which I recommend). You will also want shoes comfoprtable to hike a volcano in. Other than that, I would pack a couple pairs of slippers (you may know them as flip-flops), couple bathing suits, shorts, tanks, tees, skirts. When you say a “few months” I am going to assume it is into winter?? and suggest a couple long sleeved items (a sweater perhaps) that you can throw on when you go out to dinner on a cool evening. Remember that we can have some nice tradewinds and at night they can mess up you hair 😉 Also, don’t forget raingear!! Many people forget that is does rain in Hawaii. If you drive to Hana bring motion sickness medicine!! If you have a snorkel, mask, and fins bring that.

Also, another thing to remember is that the plane ride is LONG bring layers in your carry on in case you are too hot or cold on the plane (those blankets are never big enough). Many other items you will need like sunscreen, etc can be bought here and to me it is not worth risking the sunscreen exploding in your suitcase. But do make sure you bring it. I would also bring a hat and dont forget sunglasses!! Thats about all I can think of. HAVE FUN!!

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

since you are coming in a few months it will be in the middle of the summer here (not that there is a real winter 🙂 ), so make sure you have:

comfortable walking shows

these are the most important things you should not overlooked. everything else is up to you to get depending on your needs.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Hey guys! Today I wanted to do a travel-related post since you know I am frequently flying here and there for work. Before every trip I take I scour the internet to find a good list to remind myself of what I should pack, but it can be tricky to find a good one. That’s why I decided to write my own handy guide which may hopefully be helpful for your next 1-week trip too. 🙂

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

The first thing to consider is luggage. Will you be using checked luggage or a simple carry-on? Carry-on luggage size requirements can vary per airline so be sure to check beforehand so your luggage will fit. My luggage here is from Tokidoki but I recommend something with 4 wheels and zip compartments inside.

I personally find packing cubes to be so helpful in neatly organizing my clothes and keeping items from getting lost so if you’ve never used them, I highly recommend buying a pack in various sizes! TIP: Roll your clothes to keep wrinkles away and save on space.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

There have been cuter packing cube options that have come out lately and I’ve found that having a variety of sizes and designs really helps to keep things organized. Here are a few options that I’ve been loving:

Once we have our luggage and cubes ready, we can start to pack for our 1-week trip!

Lets start with clothes:

8 shirts (4 tanks, 4 tops)
1 cardigan
1 hoodie
2 pants
1 pair of shorts or skirt
1 dress (if applicable)
socks (take the # of days you’ll likely wear socks and add +1)
undies (take the # of days of your trip and add +1)
bras (2 everyday bras, 1 strapless if applicable)
pajamas
1-3 outerwear (1 jacket, 1 blazer, 1 heavier coat if applicable)

Next, shoes:

1 pair of everyday sandals or flats
1 pair of nice heels
1 pair of boots

Jewelry & accessories:

1 wide scarf (doubles as a blanket on the plane)
earrings (studs and dangling earrings in gold & silver)
necklaces (dainty and statement options in gold & silver)
bracelets (lightweight basics in gold & silver)
rings (3 gold & 3 silver)
watch

toothbrush & toothpaste
hairbrush
shampoo & conditioner
body wash
loofah
body lotion
face wash
facial lotion
eye cream
hand cream
antiperspirant
monthly “lady” items
curling iron or flat iron
heat protectant
hairspray
dry shampoo
hair elastics/bobby pins
nail file (disposable type recommended, glass/metal may be confiscated)

foundation
foundation primer
concealer
powder
eyeshadow primer
eyeshadow palette
blush
lipstick
lip gloss
lip balm
eyebrow powder/pencil
eyeliner
mascara
eyelash curler
false lashes & lash glue
travel brushes

headphones/ear buds
electronics (laptop, ipad, games, cell phone, etc.)
chargers
wallet & ID
keys
purse

and shoudl i learn hawaiian before going?

9 Answers

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Enough underwear for the week (take in to consideration whether there will be a laundry facility at the hotel)

Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, razor, hair styling products, moisturiser, tampons, etc)

Casual day shoes

1 pair wedges (white goes with everything)

Smart flat pumps

3-4 pairs of shorts

a beach dress/cover up

1 other dinner dress

Pair of loose cotton pyjamas

Hawaiian guide book/phrase book

Hair Dryer/Styling irons

Hope you have a great trip, I’d love to visit Hawaii! 🙂

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

teen lady in a single day Packing record (TGOPL) a million) napping bag 2) Cooler with ice 3) food and beverages 4) Flashlight 5) extra clothing 6) extra shoes 7)First help kit 8) a great stick 9) A tent 10) A interest entertainment gadget or a portable television 11) fits and timber 12)flair

The normal stuff you would bring on any trip?

Underwear. Swimwear. Clothes. Toothbrush. Books. Sunscreen. ETC.

Why do you need to learn Hawaiian? It’s not like you need to learn the language when you come here, BRAH, we speak da kine ENGLISH. Our main language is English. If you bump into locals, some will speak Pidgin which is just our accent/dialect. Have a good trip.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

oohh that should be fun!

If you are flying bring some snacks and lots of electronics :]]

hair stuff (gel, hair ties, shampoo, conditioner))

Clothes and Shoes:

3 dresses [[one casual, one for the beach, and one for a nice dinner]]

shorts [[short-shorts and regular ones]]

2-4 pairs of jeans

4 regular t-shirts or shirts

3 jackets [[one for the rain, one zip-up and one hoodie pullover]]

running shoes [[in case you need to walk for a long distance]]

regular tennis shoes

boots [[uggs or rain boots]] incase it rains

toothbrush and toothpaste

thats about it [[: no, I went like last year and the people there greet you in Hawaiian and then speak to you in english, no worries [[:

Sharing is caring!

I done it! Two weeks in Europe with only a backpack, no suitcase required.

My backpack was a 40L pack that I picked up over at Amazon.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Enough clothes, all my essentials, and my computer and charging cords all fit nicely right inside the backpack.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Using this method you can spend less time worrying about luggage making it to your destination and more time having fun.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Note, the video quality is pretty good, but I want to put a disclaimer that I am NOT a professional videographer nor do I claim to be one.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

These videos, however, should give you a good feel for what I packed and how I packed it for a 2-week adventure to Italy and Ireland.

This backpack fits nicely above your seat on the plane so you save money on checked luggage fees and saves you time not having to wait for your luggage to show up at baggage claim.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Imagine all the time and money you just saved simply by using a small bag and packing less. It’s win-win all around.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Gelato is a very popular option when traveling around Italy.

There is a non-junior version that is bigger, but it was too much for what I needed so I stuck with the junior version and was very happy.

I also used Eagle Creek packing cubes to organize bathroom items, electronics, and dirty clothes. This was my first time using packing cubes, but definitely won’t be the last.

Love how easy it was to find items in my pack because of the cubes.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Yes, summer in Italy means lots of crowds, but it’s Italy…what’s not to love.

In addition to the backpack, I also carried a Travelon Anti-theft Classic Messenger Style Crossbody purse. Here’s a video about the purse and why I love it.

I have to give a great big THANK YOU shout out to Chico’s for providing me with two outfits for this adventure and Hollie (general manager at the local store) for helping me find clothes that would work great for travel.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Love the colorful building of Venice.

Read: Travel clothes that make a curvy girl look good and some cold weather travel clothes options

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Technology

1 small laptop + cord
1 cell phone + cord
1 Canon P&S camera

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Essentials

1 travel umbrella
1 mini flashlight
2 electrical converters (1 for Ireland, 1 for Italy)
1 door lock
1 laundry cord
1 packet tide soap (inside two ziplock bags to prevent leakage on clothes)
1 mini lint brush roller
1 Tide To-Go pen
1 Bleach pen
1 small first aid kit
1 small bathroom kit (toothbrush, paste, makeup, hair stuff)

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Clothes

1 White Capri
1 Black Capri
1 Black pant
1 Black maxi skirt
1 Black & white top (Knit Kit line)
1 Royal Blue shirt
2 Royal Blue & Light Blue Tank Tops
1 Cardigan
1 lightweight jacket
1 Multi-blue scarf
1 silver necklace
1 silver pair earrings
5 undergarmets
1 bra
1 pair sandals
1 Skeetchers GoWalk Slip-on shoes, black
1 pajama

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Note, all my clothes are in the same color family allowing me to mix and match everything. I had 4 bottoms and 5 tops for a total of 20 outfits to wear during my two-week holiday.

What About Cell Phone Coverage in Europe?

I’m a Verizon customer (have been for forever) so it was simple enough to enroll in the Verizon Travel Pass plan to use my date, text and talk while visiting Europe.

Verizon charges a small daily fee of $10/day to use your plan. If there is a day you don’t need or use it you don’t pay. Easy as that.

I found many wi-fi hot spots throughout Italy & Ireland to check in on social media and used the phone to stay connected with family back home. Learn more here, imo, it’s worth every penny.

How To Pack A Backpack For A 2 Week Vacation

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Comments

Just ran across this. Thank you for the very specific information provided — the videos are tremendously helpful. I’ve been looking at travel backpacks, trying to decide on size, features, etc., and whether I can really manage with just a modest-sized pack and a handbag. Great to actually see what you brought, and how you organized and then packed your things.

My biggest struggle is paring down the number of shoes I bring on a trip (even a short one), and making them fit within a modest-sized bag.

Love this! Thanks for sharing, as I wondered how you would do this… I’m going to be implementing your tips.

HOW TO PACK FOR A FOUR PERSON FAMILY IN ONE CHECKED LUGGAGE

Did you know you can get shampoo and conditioner in bars? Not only are they mess-free (ever had a bottle of conditioner burst all over your flip-flops?). They can be more environmentally friendly than many bottled shampoo and conditioners. Especially as they often contain all-natural ingredients. Likewise, they are more compact and fit neatly into a spare corner or pocket of a case.

TOILETRIES

Take travel size toiletries instead of full size and refill with local products when you get to your destination. Alternatively to save money (travel size toiletries can be more expensive than standard sizes) decant large bottles of moisturiser or shower gel into small bottles or waterproof pouches.

Using kids’ products such as toothpaste and sharing deodorant with your partner are other ways to save space and are fine for short trips.

TOWELS

Don’t bring towels in your luggage if you can help it. Check with your accommodation if they provide towels and request them if possible. If you really have to take towels with you, purchase a quick drying and compact travel towel. They often come with their own compact waterproof case or can be rolled around other clothes/shoes to save space in your checked luggage. This has to be our number one space and weight saving tip.

PACKING CUBES

Use packing cubes. Not only do they help squash clothes down. They are a great visual guide that stops you from overpacking. If you only have one cube per person, anything that doesn’t fit in can get left behind.

Use cloth drawstring bags for storing underwear or dirty clothing. These squash down and can be flattened out on top of the rest of the packing, right before you zip your case up.

CLOTHES

Roll your clothes! This minimises the gaps in between them and rolls out any air that might be taking up room. Along with packing cubes, this is the best way of fitting in as much as possible into your case without wasting space. Take clothes that you can dress up and down instead of packing separate outfits for different occasions.

For example, swap flip-flops for pair of nice sandals and earrings to transform a sundress from a casual daytime outfit into something suitable for evening dinner. Don’t forget to stuff your shoes! Use the space inside your packed shoes for things like socks, headphones and anything else small enough to stuff inside. Maximise every bit of space.

TAKE LAYERS ONBOARD

Wear layers onto the plane. Aeroplanes can often be chilly anyway so this is a great opportunity to sneak an extra outfit or accessories to your destination without being penalised for the extra weight. Layer a tank top with t-shirts and a hoodie or leggings under shorts for serious packing efficiency.

WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIALS

Do you really need to take a hairdryer for a casual week at the beach with the kids? Most hotels and apartments provide things like irons and hairdryers as standard, or can source them on request. Try and ask for as much as possible to be borrowed from your accommodation so that you can leave your own electrical products at home.

To be honest, I am totally fine with the wet hair look when I’m away. If you’re looking for that kind of holiday onthebeach.co.uk do some amazing short and long haul trips from the UK.

VACUUM BAGS

Vacuum bags are your new best friend. For bulkier items like jackets or baby blankets, simply pop them in a vacuum bag and watch as it shrinks down by sucking the air out. Layer them on top of each other for easy stack-packing.

Talking of baby blankets, consider things that can double up. Can the quick dry towel discussed earlier be used as a blanket?

LAUNDRY POWDER

Bring a small amount of laundry powder with you so that you can hand-wash items on the go! This means you need to take fewer clothes with you on your trip. You can also purchase all-purpose soap bars similar to the shampoo bars, which are suitable for washing both your clothes and body!

Bringing your own laundry detergent also saves money on expensive hotel laundry services. I really love the laundry eggs. They are eco and compact.

LIGHTWEIGHT SUITCASE

Our extra tip for taking one piece of checked luggage within airline weight requirements is to get a lightweight suitcase. This can save you several kilos when purchasing a super lightweight case compared to a traditional suitcase.

We’ve used ZFrames over the last year. It’s been zipped and unzipped hundreds if not thousands of times. Not to mention being dragged through 23 countries in a short period of time.

HOW TO PACK – PACKING LIST FOR TWO ADULTS, A CHILD AND A BABY

Although there are a few things on this list you won’t necessarily need, I just wanted to show its possible to get a lot in. Especially when packed well!

Swimming outfits (kids’ x 4)

Sunhats (kids’ x 2)

Dresses (kids’ x 3)

Shorts (kids’ x 5)

Jumpers ((kids’ x 2)

Trousers (kids’ x 3)

Sunglasses (kids’ x 2)

Socks (kids’ x 4 pairs)

Underwear (kids’ x 14)

Dresses (adults’ x 3)

Shoes (adults’ x 5)

Short (adults’ x 4)

Swimming outfits (adults’ x 4)

Tops (adults’ x 14)

Underwear (adults’ x 14)

Socks (adults’ x 4 pairs)

Trousers (adults’ x 3)

Sunglasses (adults’ x 2)

Nappies Baby wipes (x 2)

Cuddly toys (x 2)

Travel bags of toys (x 2)

Children’s books (x 4)

Kids eating utensils (x 2)

Beach towels (x 4)

Fan and Beach bag

Toothbrushes (x 4)

Sun screen factor 50

Sun screen factor 30

Washing powder tablets

Hair flower grip

Phone battery pack

Kindle Tablet with charger

Laptop with charger Phone chargers (x 2)

Kids’ life jacket

Pool drinks holders (x 2)

Inflatable beach ball

Have you got any packing tips for a family taking just one piece of checked luggage on a trip? Let us know in the comments!

These helpful tricks will prevent you from over-or-under packing as you prepare for your next trip.

Even the most masterful of travelers can always learn a thing or two when it comes to packing lighter, smarter, and more efficiently. There are many of us who are chronic over-packers who always are bringing way more clothes and “necessities” than are really necessary, while some of us are under-packers who never seem to bring enough toothpaste or socks to get through a trip.

Luckily, there is a happy medium—and it can be found in a carry on. Forget the long lines and turning carousels at the baggage claim and never be worried that your luggage might not make it to your destination. By packing everything you need in a way that keeps you from losing time (or even your possessions), you will never want to check your luggage again. Here’s what you need to know to pack everything you need for a two-week trip in a carry on.

Size Up Your Carry-On

Forgetchecking a bulky bag. When you check a bag, there’s a chance thatit may not arrive at your destination. Plus, it adds time to your trip, because you have to wait for it at the baggage claim, and sometimes it even costs extra. So choose a carry-on instead.

First, make sure that your carry-on meets regulations for your airline’s standards. All Eagle creek Creek carry-ons are pre-approved to fit airline sizing standards. It helps if you have a bag that can be used in multiple ways, —such as the Switchback 22. By having a carry-on that you can roll, carry, or strap to your back, you will be able to carry it in the most comfortable way possible since it will probably be a little heavier than your average, iPad-toting carry on. Make sure that you utilize all compartments of your carry-on. Put your chargers and other small items that you will need early and often in any external pockets that are located on the straps or the side of the bag.

Pack Clothing Carefully

When it comes to packing clothes, remember that versatility and layering is key. Pack mostly neutral-colored tops and bottoms so that each item will be interchangeable and match the others. Dresses are also great for women because they are outfits that don’t take up a lot of suitcase space. Roll all of your clothing as tightly as possible and put the heaviest fabrics, such as jeans and jackets, on the bottom. It’s best if you can compress your clothing to maximize space.

Stack rolled shirts on top, and tuck rolled underwear and bras along the edges of the your bag. It is best to have two pairs of bottoms (pants, shorts, or skirts) for each week that you’ll be staying. Plan on bringing four shirts per week, and two jackets to layer for warmth (if you’re traveling to a cool or cold destination). For a two-week trip, you need four bottoms and eight tops. Pack one or two dresses if you plan on going anywhere fancy, and bring athletic gear if you think you’ll hike or exercise. Now you will have clothes for any occasion—from a hike to a dinner out on the town. Be sure to wear your bulkiest clothing items on your travel days. That means your biggest jacket and a pair of sturdy shoes—like boots or tennis shoes—to save the space in your bag.

Add a Personal Item

Treat your carry on just like you would treat a full-sized luggage carrier. Keep it for your travel apparel only so you can get enough clothes and two pairs of shoes in there to last all 14 days. The magic of carry-ons is that besides a carry-on, you are also allowed to bring one personal item on your flight as well. Bring a tote, duffel, or backpack to carry everything that’s not clothing: laptop, books, and any important documents (like a passport). It’s also smart and space-savvy to pack your toiletry kit inside your personal item to maximize room for clothing in your carry-on. Use a toiletry kit and TSA-approved travel-sized bottles to store your shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, makeup, and the like.

Having everything that you need with you while you travel is not only efficient, but comforting. Nothing feels better than no longer being the person who over-packed or under-packed—but the one who got it just right.

If you’ve been following me on Instagram (I’m @caroline_joy) you know Aaron and I are currently on vacation in Miami, or more specifically South Beach. We’re getting some much needed down time + adventure time together.

I thought you might like to peek into my suitcase. Cue Will Smith and check it out!

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

GREY CASUAL TANK (similar) | This tank, paired with jean shorts, makes a perfect swimsuit coverup. Or I’m also pairing it with jean shorts + panama hat + day sandals for a casual sightseeing outfit.

WHITE CASUAL TANK | While this tank is casual in nature, it’s actually really easy to dress up. I’m pairing it with dressy shorts + dressy heels + statement bracelet + day purse for a fun happy hour look.

GRAPHIC TEE (sort of similar) | The fit of this tee is so loose and comfortable. Yet it’s also easy to dress up. (See a theme here?) I’m wearing it casual with jean shorts + day sandals — or I can go dressy with dressy shorts + dressy heels.

BUTTON UP SHIRT | This shirt is perfect for brunch, paired with jean shorts + day sandals + panama hat + day purse. It also doubles as a swimsuit coverup.

CASUAL MAXI DRESS |The dress pictured isn’t the exact maxi dress I have, but it’s similar. Basically, I never travel without a maxi dress. I can dress it up or down, and it’s the easiest one piece outfit to throw on.

COCKTAIL DRESS | This one’s reserved for our fancy date! You haven’t really seen any of my fancy dresses because they aren’t included in my capsule wardrobe, but this is one of three fancy dresses I’ve been investing in over the past few years. I struggled for a while when it came to cocktail attire. I would always buy little Forever21 dresses … but I am not forever 21 anymore. So they just looked … sad. I finally invested in this beautiful number that’s sexy (short) and playful (fringe!) but totally demure at the same time (covered up top).

TWO SWIMSUITS (similar floral and similar leopard) | I’m way into the retro style swimsuits these days.

BEACH + DAY SANDALS | These are shown in black up there, but I actually have the cognac pair. (I just couldn’t find a picture of them in cognac.) These guys do double duty as my beach shoes and my around town sightseeing shoes.

DRESSY HEELS | Also for our fancy date! These pair with my dressy shorts, too — the perfect dinner outfit. Again, you haven’t seen these yet because fancy shoes aren’t included in my capsule wardrobe. But these are my one and only pair of fancy shoes, and they are so versatile — they do it all!

JEAN SHORTS | No beach vacation is complete without a pair of cutoffs. I’m wearing them to the beach as a swimsuit coverup, and around town when we’re out sightseeing.

DRESSY SHORTS | Wanna know a secret? These can actually go dressy or casual. They pair with every single top I brought. And they are super comfortable.

BEACH BAG | I don’t have a dedicated beach bag, so I brought our canvas reusable tote we use for our groceries. Makin’ do! It’s also doubling as my carry on bag for the plane.

DAY PURSE | Why did I bring such a tiny bag, you ask? Well, because it goes with my both my casual outfits and my fancy cocktail outfit. And I also just like carrying a smaller bag in general.

PANAMA HAT | While this guy takes up a lot of room in the suitcase, it’s worth it. I’m wearing it every day!

STATEMENT BRACELET | The bracelet shown up there isn’t the exact one I have, but it’s similar. I know this sounds crazy, but this is the only piece of jewelry I brought with me. But imagine it with every outfit I’ve mentioned so far. Perfect, right? Necklaces don’t work with either dress I brought … but this little cuff does. It also goes a long way in adding some style to my super casual outfits.

OTHER STUFF | Toiletry bag, one set of workout clothes, an extra beach coverup, Kindle, journal, and a blanket (that I can spread out on the beach or actually wear if I get cold).

Hawaii Packing List

Packing for Your Trip to Hawaii

You’ve done your research, you know which island(s) you’ll be visiting, and you’ve planned your activities- great! But now you have to pack. And while that thought may elicit a *groan* from some people, we’re here to help!

Be sure to also check out our official Hawaii Travel Store, which is composed of the best equipment and gear for people who quickly want to know what to get when traveling to Hawaii. When visitors choose to buy our independently chosen editorial picks, including through some of the text links below, we earn affiliate commissions that support our travel publishing work. Here is an explanation of how it works and how you can help support our organization. Mahalo!

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Hawaii Trip Packing Suggestions

No matter how much traveling you’ve done before, one tip serves as the “Golden Rule of Packing” for Hawaii: leave as much as possible at home. So what items should make the cut? Check out our suggestions on Packing for Your Trip to Hawaii to make sure you have exactly what you’ll need.

Casual Warm Weather Clothing– With the exception of the most exclusive resorts, most places in Hawaii have a casual atmosphere. This means that shorts and a nice Aloha shirt are perfectly appropriate for dining out, even in the ‘fancier’ establishments. You’ll want several T-shirts, a few pairs of shorts, flip-flops or sandals, and a hat or visor. Cotton blend clothing is always a good option.
Light Jacket, Long Pants, Raingear– It pays to be prepared for the chillier weather, especially if you’ll be visiting some of the higher elevations. If you do, we suggest layering your clothing so you will always be comfortable. You’ll want a lightweight rain jacket or poncho (we prefer cheaper emergency ponchos since they are light and easy to transport), especially for rainforest and mountain hiking. Your winter coat can stay behind unless you think you’ll need it on the summit of Haleakala or Mauna Kea for those sunrise/sunset trips.
Sunscreen– We cannot emphasize this enough: you absolutely do not want to ruin your dream vacation with a sunburn. Even if it is cloudy and rainy, the UV index can be very high, so be sure to slather some on. Please choose a coral reef safe brand, as traditional sunscreen contains chemicals that damage and even kill the precious reefs.
Backpack– To carry your necessities while out and about, especially when hiking. Here are some light backpack choices to consider.
Water Bottle– Hawaii’s warm climate, combined with activities such as hiking, sunning on the beach, etc., make it very important to stay hydrated with a good water bottle.
Swimsuit and Cover Up/Sarong– No one wants to put on a soggy suit. Take two, so you can wear one while the other dries.
Footwear– Choose flip-flops, sandals, or other comfortable and lightweight shoes for beach/poolside and walking. If hiking is on the itinerary, you’ll need some sturdy hiking boots. Most zipline operators also require some sort of closed-toe shoe, as well. Do not buy new shoes right before you leave without breaking them in; you certainly don’t want blisters at the outset of your vacation.
Bug Spray with DEET– Rainforest hikes can make you a mosquito magnet; head them off at the pass before they nibble on you. We prefer Repel Sportsmen Max.
Camera– You’ll want to take lots of pictures of your tropical getaway, so now’s the time to invest in a good digital camera. Make sure your photos will be backed up somewhere should lose your camera or phone. Of course, what equipment you choose to take may vary (a casual vs. professional photographer, for instance).
Flashlight– You’ll appreciate having one if the sun sets before your hike ends, or for nighttime strolls along the beach. We prefer long-lasting LED powered lights to traditional flashlights.

Also, Remember- Take any personal items that you cannot do without, such as medications, glasses or contacts, necessities for traveling with children, and the like.

Hawaii Packing Items

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

You may want to pack specialized gear based on your planned activities, such as hiking poles, snorkel and fins, and things of that nature. But remember, these items can take up precious space, so consider renting them when you arrive. Keep in mind that Hawaii is a huge tourist destination, so equipment rental is quite easy. You may also wait to purchase most personal care and toiletry items upon arrival, as well.

Here at Hawaii Guide, we are avid supporters of preserving the precious marine environment around the Hawaiian islands. That’s why we support Be Reef Safe, a global campaign that empowers consumers and businesses to make positive choices for our oceans and reefs. We encourage you to learn more about their initiative and find some reef safe products to pack along for your trip.

So remember: less is more when packing for your trip to Hawaii. Leave room for gifts and souvenirs; but most of all, leave your worries behind!

Terms of Use

The use of this website is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website.

Article Published/Updated: 12-20-2017

Use these strategies to cut the cost of airfare, lodging, dining and entertainment in the Aloha State.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Do you dream of going to Hawaii but fear that you couldn’t actually afford a trip to this tropical paradise? There’s no denying that a Hawaiian vacation is expensive. In fact, it will probably be one of the most expensive vacations in your lifetime, says Brian Ek, travel editor of Priceline.com. But there certainly are ways to keep costs – from flights and accommodations to dining and entertainment – down so it could fit into your budget. Here’s how:

Timing is everything. Airfare is the most expensive component of a trip to Hawaii, Ek says. By flying during the off-seasons in the spring and fall, you can save 50% or more on airfare. For example, you’ll pay $780, on average, for a flight from New York to Hawaii in the spring or fall, but airfare can be as high as $1,900 during August, he says. You’ll also need to book well in advance – as early as 11 months before departure – to get the best deal on a flight to Hawaii, according to CheapAir.com.

You’ll also save at least $50 or more per night on accommodations when you visit during the off-seasons, says Sheila Beal, founder of independent travel advice site Go Visit Hawaii. By all means, avoid traveling to the Aloha State around a holiday – particularly Easter, July Fourth, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve – when demand is high and rates match the demand, she says.

Pick the right island. Visiting all of Hawaii’s six main islands during one trip certainly would cost more than just seeing one. So Ek says it’s important to research the islands to figure out which one offers what you most want to experience during a Hawaiian vacation. Beal has an infographic on her site that provides highlights of each main island. For more detailed information, she recommends visiting each island’s visitor bureau Web site.

Be aware that the three largest islands – Maui, Oahu and Hawaii (the Big Island) – have more hotels and vacation properties, so rates are more competitive. Beal says that some of the least expensive areas to stay are Kihei on Maui, Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island, a block or two away from Waikiki Beach on Oahu, and Kapaa and Lihue on Kauai, which is less developed than the three biggest islands.

Cut the cost of lodging. If you want to see the ocean from your hotel room, you’ll pay a high price for that view. You can save $50 or more per night by booking a room with a garden or mountain view instead of an ocean view, Beal says. You also can cut costs by booking a room at a hotel that’s classified as 3-star on discount travel sites such as Priceline rather than a 4-star or 5-star hotel, Ek says. Hotel chains such as Hilton and Marriott often fall into this category and have rooms on or near the beach in places such as Honolulu and Kona for $100 to $135 per night – versus $500 or more per night for 5-star accommodations, he says. Also, Beal recommends checking daily deal sites such as Groupon and LivingSocial for deep discounts on hotels. She recently saw an oceanfront room at a 5-star hotel on Hawaii that normally costs close to $500 per night for just $271 on LivingSocial. When comparing lodging options, be sure to consider resort and parking fees. Some resorts charge $20 or more daily in fees, and daily parking can cost $15 to $35, Beal says.

Another way to save is to stay in a vacation rental property, such as a condominium or villa. While the average hotel room rate on Maui is hovering around $300 per night, you can easily find a one- or two-bedroom condo in South Maui’s Kihei area for less than $200 per night, Beal says. Plus, you can avoid resort or parking fees with vacation rentals. And you’ll have a kitchen, so you save money on food by cooking meals. However, you do need to check for and politely negotiate cleaning fees, Beal says. See How to Save Money on Vacation Rental Properties for more information.

Look for package deals. Buying a vacation package can also be a way to save money. When hotel and flight costs are bundled together, a Hawaiian vacation package can trim the total bill by $200 to $300 per person, Ek says. Also check for package deals available through warehouse clubs. Beal says Costco offers Hawaii hotel deals that can include a rental car and free daily breakfast.

Save on dining and entertainment. If you stay in a hotel or resort, avoid the breakfast buffet, which can cost up to $45 per person, Beal says. Instead, order a la carte from the menu for about $15 per person. And take advantage of pau hana (Hawaii’s version of happy hour) to get half-priced appetizers at the best restaurants.

To enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii and to get the most out of your trip, both Beal and Ek recommend renting a car, which can actually save you money. For roughly $35 to $40 per day, you can create an itinerary that would normally cost $100 per person per day with tour companies, Beal says. Follow these tips to save money on a rental car. For deals on snorkeling, surfing lessons, luaus and more, Beal recommends checking Groupon, LivingSocial and Travelzoo.

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube, Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

Wondering what to wear in Hawaii? Walk around Waikiki and you’ll see girls dressed in shorts and a bikini top, guys wearing board shorts carrying surfboards, Japanese tourists sporting hats with wide brims, and guys of all ages wearing Hawaiian shirts. It’s not uncommon to see people with wet hair strolling around Waikiki, and makeup is practically non-existent.

What to Wear in Hawaii

If planning what to wear in Hawaii is still giving you trouble, here’s a handy list of items for that natural island look.

T-Shirts & Tank Tops

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

You can never go wrong wearing a T-shirt. When in doubt about what to wear in Hawaii, pick a sporty T-shirt for men and women. In Hawaii, it’s perfectly okay to forgo sleeves, too, both for women and men.

Shorts

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

If you’re going to a business meeting, you might want to don pants or capris, but for daily island life, shorts are more in keeping with Hawaii style. A pair of board shorts, made of easy-to-dry fabric, can also transition easily from surf to street. This goes equally for women and men.

A Floral Dress

For those afternoons spent shopping or wandering around Honolulu or Waikiki, a pretty floral dress is always in fashion.

A Cover-Up

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

If you end up on the beach or doing a water activity like snorkeling or swimming with the dolphins, chances are you’re going to be in a swimsuit. Once you get out of the water, though, it’s acceptable to keep your swimsuit on and don a cover-up. Just make sure it’s cute and covers all the important bits, and you’ll fit right in.

A Maxi Dress

For evenings at the luau or dinner in a nice restaurant, a maxi dress hits just the right note in terms of beach chic and is a great choice for what to wear in Hawaii.

Sandals

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

In Hawaii, a pair of cute, flat sandals can make the outfit.

Flip-Flops

Because everyone in Hawaii has at least a few pairs, you should definitely plan on wearing flip-flops. This applies to women and men.

Hawaiian Shirt

It’s a little cliche, but when considering what to wear in Hawaii, the guys will never go wrong with a Hawaiian shirt. Just make sure it’s more of a modern, fitted style. The boxy versions should stay in the back of your closet.

Hiking Gear

Planning on hiking up Diamond Head to catch the awesome views? You’ll want to wear a pair of sturdy hiking boots. No open toed shoes allowed for guys or gals.

– Original reporting by Mai Pham

More from SmarterTravel:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

When you are preparing for a 2 weeks vacation, you have to think about all the possibilities in what is concerning what you will be wearing these days. What if it’s cold? What if it gets sunny? What if you need a dress for a dinner or something more business? And besides, you have to fit everything in a standard, airline approved carry-on. Here are some advises to help you solve this problem fast and efficient. First of all the ideal carry-on should have “crazy wheels” and tons of pockets. Be sure you check on the size and weight limitations of your airline.

Directions: Start by planning your outfits to get you through a week and plan to do the laundry mid-trip. Pack four pairs of pants: colored jeans, skinny jeans, boyfriend capris and shorts (not too short). Continue with one maxi skirt and one dress. Six tops should be enough: long sleeve, basic V-neck tee, black camp shirt, chambray button down and tank are just some options you can choose from. Three jackets: jeans, military and a rain jacket should be enough. Three pairs of shoes: flat sandals, heels and some walking shoes. Accessories: belts (not more than three), two scarves should be enough and a few cheap necklaces. Also pack some underpants, undershirts and some socks or tights.

How will you manage to put all of these into your bag? Start by folding and then rolling each piece as tight as possible. This way your clothes won’t get too many wrinkles. When done, put everything in some packing cubes you can buy from any store. Don’t forget you should be wearing on the plane and road an outfit out of those mentioned above. Make sure you fill in every void of your luggage with the belts shoes and socks. In the end, you will see you can even put some rubber boots on top of everything. For the toiletries, kindle, makeup you should also take a tote bag.

I like to travel light. So much so that I’m known for never checking a bag. I’ve even been interviewed about it in one of London’s leading newspapers. People always tell me I should write a blog post about how to pack with just a carry-on, so today I bring you 5 tips that will help you master the art.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

How to Pack with Just a Carry-On

I’ve been traveling with just a carry-on for 12 years. It’s made traveling easier, checking in for flights faster, and leaving the airport when I land a breeze.

I’ve traveled for up to 3 weeks with just one small bag (doing laundry once), and regularly travel for a week without extra luggage (or wearing the same shirt twice). I’ve gotten so used to it that I have a hard time imagining how I could fill an entire suitcase. If you follow these 5 steps for how to pack with just a carry-on, you’ll be able to do the same.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

1. Get the Right Bag

If there’s one thing you take away from this blog post, it’s that you should get a Lululemon bag for your travels. I’ve had three of them over the last 10 years and they’re the most useful things I own.

With padded laptop pockets, waterproof shoe bags, and other storage areas of various shapes and sizes, they’re easy to pack and keep organized.

Unlike many other travel bags, they hold their shape so are great for packing fragile items, electronics, and anything else that needs extra protection.

They also have long handles, making them easy to throw over your shoulder. If you’re in the UK, you can get one here. If you’re in the US, they’re here.

2. Travel Size Everything

Now that you’ve got your bag, it’s time to focus on what you’ll put in it. Or better yet, what you won’t. The things that waste the most space in my bag are toiletries and accessories. When I first started traveling a lot, I learned the value of saving space by getting travel-size everything.

I have a tiny hairbrush, mini deodorant, small toothbrush, and itty bitty toothpaste. I buy all my make-up in sample sizes in addition to regular ones, and any time I see a diminutive version of something I use daily I buy it for my travels.

I also keep a supply of travel-size bottles that I fill with sunscreen and other liquids when I fly. It allows me to save space and make sure I’m within the allowed liquid limit, which is a key element of how to pack with just a carry-on. If you’re in the UK, you can get them here. If you’re in the US, find them here.

Best of all, keeping these items in a grab-and-go toiletries bag at home makes packing for my next trip fast and easy.

3. Conserve Space

But there are some things I can’t miniaturize. Clothes, for example. For those, I roll. When I first heard that rolling clothes saves space, I didn’t believe it. Then I tried it and was overwhelmed by how much extra room there was in my bag. Now I roll everything.

I know a lot of travel bloggers who also swear by packing cubes. I’ve never used them, but they’re certainly worth a try if you need more room. If you’re in the UK, you can find them here. If you’re in the US, you can get them here.

4. Only Bring What’s Necessary

Don’t worry, I’m not going to tell you to bring one pair of underwear for a two-week trip. But I am going to tell you to bring one pair of shoes. And one jacket. And for goodness sake, leave the hairdryer at home.

I used to travel with full bottles of shampoo and conditioner, a hairdryer, and other bulky items I never used. It was as if I was afraid there was no shampoo in all of Hawaii, or that Italians didn’t dry their hair. But eventually I learned these things are rarely missing from a hotel room.

Above all, I leave the “just in case” items at home. When have I ever needed them anyway? And if I do end up requiring them, most are easy to purchase in whatever destination I’m traveling to.

5. Plan a Capsule Wardrobe

To that end, capsule wardrobes are essential. When I first started traveling, I brought different outfits for every day. Then I realized that if I planned my outfits to coordinate with one another, I could cut down on extraneous shoes, scarves, and other accessories. Suddenly my bag was much lighter and I didn’t miss the things I left at home.

So plan on bringing one pair of shoes, the more versatile the better. If you read my summer packing list for London, you’ll know I swear by French Sole flats. I can dress them up or down depending on what I’m doing, which frees up space in my bag. If you’re in the UK, you can get them here. If you’re in the US, they’re here.

And plan to dress in layers. There’s no need to bring three jackets of varying thickness when traveling somewhere with an unpredictable climate. Just bring one and layer your clothes according to the weather.

Packing Freedom

I hope this guide helps you travel light and save time (not to mention effort—luggage is heavy!). If all else fails, put everything you plan to pack on your bed, then put half of it back in your closet. It can be difficult in the beginning, but you’ll be a pro in no time.

How about you? Do you have tips for how to pack with just a carry-on?

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on them and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.

Pin it!
How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

32 Comments on Lady’s 5 Tips for How to Pack with Just a Carry-On

I have a set of small vacuum bags. I throw one in my bag empty, and put all my dirty clothes in there as the trip goes along. Helps keep other clothes fresh and then I can squeeze out all the air for the trip home. Also makes unpacking and laundry a breeze after travels.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

Packing requires practicality: Not only must you carefully plot what items to bring, but you must also strategically organize them into one compact carry-on. With steep checked-baggage fees increasing already lofty flight costs, experienced globetrotters often suggest stripping down to the absolute essentials in order to hold on to some dough. Add the burden of shouldering a bulky bag along spread out terminal walkways and you can see why savvy travelers are taking advantage of smart, minimalist packing.

While carrying less cargo certainly has its benefits, even the most seasoned travelers agonize over how to limit excess baggage. But never fear: No matter where you’re headed, these nine handy techniques will help you pack as efficiently as possible for your next trip.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii
Highways Agency / Flickr

Size Up Your Carry-On

You’ll run the risk of paying a hefty sum if your bag exceeds your carrier’s size requirements for carry-on luggage. Before you consider which particular suitcase to take, check your airline’s carry-on baggage restrictions to avoid extra fees. Carry-on bag size dimensions vary by airline. Most domestic carriers allow you to bring luggage as large as 45 linear inches (the total length, width and height of a bag) on board; however, some smaller international airlines like Ryanair impose much stricter dimensions. By opting for a suitcase that doesn’t exceed 20 inches in length or 20 pounds fully packed, you should have no problem boarding domestic carriers. New, cutting-edge luggage designs are rolled out every year, but you should stick to the style that suits you. A roll-aboard with soft sides that can be easily laid into an overhead bin allows you to breeze through the terminal on wheels, while a lightweight duffel bag allows you to traverse a variety of terrains.

Make a Checklist

It may seem like a no-brainer, but making a packing list forces you to differentiate between what’s necessary and what’s not. Write down exactly how many shirts, pants and shoes you will need, taking into account the climate of your destination. Also, don’t forget to use logical numbers to determine necessary clothing — for example, the number of shirts you bring probably shouldn’t exceed the number of days you’ll be away. And while you’re at it, pare down your list once more if you’ll be able to wash garments on your trip. After you’ve thoughtfully calculated what to bring, cross off each item as you lay it next to your bag, and ignore the urge to add any extra articles of clothing at the last minute.

Stay Neutral

A general rule of thumb for packing light is selecting neutral shades. If you’re traveling on business, bring along shirts, pants and blazers that complement each other in whites, blacks and browns. If basics aren’t really your style, pick an eye-catching color like red and work around it. Another tip: If you’re traveling for work, bring along a crisp, white-collared shirt. You’ll find it’s easy to mix and match pieces on the road. Plus, you’ll allow yourself extra room for packing casual clothing and heavier items like shoes.

Pack Ahead of Time

It probably goes without saying, but if you pack at least one day prior to your departure, you’ll be far less likely to hastily insert extras that aren’t necessary. Allow yourself enough time to assess the pieces you need. You should lay all your items in a way that allows you to see everything — this will help you lighten your load and prevent you from bringing that extra bathing suit or pair of shoes that you could probably do without. Plus, by starting the packing process early, you’ll give yourself enough leeway to thoughtfully pack your bag instead of trying to balance stuffing your suitcase with scrambling to get to the airport on time.

Learn to Layer

If you’re headed somewhere cold, you’re going to need to pile on the layers. But instead of stacking a hefty winter jacket into your carry-on, pack thermal gear and thin sweaters. Another trick for keeping your suitcase slim: Wear your bulkiest items (such as a long sleeve shirt or your heavy coat) on the plane. If you’re too warm, you can always stow away your extra layers in an overhead bin.

Compress and Conserve

What’s the secret to bundling it all in? Compiling your bulkiest items into compression packing bags. These helpful bags allow more room for your clothes and other items by reducing excess air. Spacepak Bags available from Flight 001 or Space Bags from Ziploc are ideal if you’re packing for a longer trip; these bags allow you to fit bulkier items into a smaller bag. If your trip doesn’t require clunky articles of clothing, skip the space bag and tuck accessories and smaller necessities into larger items. Stuff socks, underwear and belts inside running shoes to save space.

Shoe It In

Before you toss any shoes inside your bag, ask yourself one question: “Do I really need these?” Many frequent travelers agree that two or three pairs of shoes — at most — should suffice. Whether you’re traveling on business or for pleasure, you can probably make do with one pair of dressier footwear and another more casual pair. (You’ll also save room in your bag by wearing your bulkiest shoes on the plane.) Once you’ve decided which shoes to bring, be sure to place them in your suitcase first and to the side as shoes tend to take up a lot of room. By doing so, you’ll not only maximize your space, but also evenly distribute your heaviest items.

Roll It Up

Instead of folding, start rolling. You’ll be surprised how much room you’ll save if you roll your clothing instead of laying it out flat. Stack the bulkiest items, such as pants and sweaters, into the corners of your bag (after shoes, of course) to distribute weight evenly, and then continue compiling rolled items at the center of your bag. Pack everything snugly to conserve as much space as possible. If you’re looking to keep your formalwear wrinkle-free, your best bet is folding rather than rolling. You’ll want to place your dress wear into a dry-cleaner bag or insert a piece of tissue paper between each article to prevent extra creases and wrinkles in-transit. All rolled items should be placed at the bottom of your bag, with dressier attire arranged neatly and tightly at the top of your suitcase.

Save the Lightest Items for Last

Once you’ve bundled the bulkiest articles of clothing inside your carry-on, it’s time to stow lighter items like toiletries. And with the Transportation Security Administration adhering to three-ounce liquid restrictions, you’re going to have to pare down to the essentials to stay within size requirements. Opt for a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner or a shampoo bar that can double as soap. You may purchase specific toiletries on the road or rely on hotel shampoo bottles to save extra space, too. After you’ve trimmed down your toiletry kit, place it on top of your bag so it’s within easy reach at security checkpoints. You’ll also need to reduce your tech gear to the essential travel tools: Must-haves include your cellphone, camera, headphones, chargers and laptop or tablet (if you’re planning to work while on the road). Remember that you’ll need to remove these items along with your toiletries at the TSA checkpoint.

So you’re going away (woohoo)! There’s no need to stress about what to pack for a beach resort vacation, because the beauty is, you’re travelling to an all-inclusive resort. All the conveniences will be there for you and if you do forget something, chances are you’ll be able to buy it or will realize you don’t really need it anyway. As long as you have one swim suit and some clothes for dinner, you’ll be okay – though that’s not the ideal way to pack for your trip. We have some tips for how to pack for a beach vacation so you won’t be forgetting anything important or lugging around way more than you need.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

How to pack for a beach vacation

1. Start off with a small or medium size suitcase and see what fits. Since you’re not going on a multi-week adventure, doing varied activities, or dressing for the runway, you won’t need too many options. Pack your shoes (filled with socks) and other heavier items at the wheels of the suitcase. Place larger items in first before filling the holes, and store jewellery, chargers, and other small items in the pockets of your luggage.

2. The rolling versus folding debate: I still fold my clothes for the most part, but rolling seems to be the new way to pack. Whatever your preference, there is a time and a place for each. Folding is preferred for structured clothing like blazers and trousers – and is more effective at keeping wrinkles away when you fold along the item’s natural crease. Rolling is better to save space and stuff as much as you can in unstructured bags like a duffle or carry-on, and for light clothing like t-shirts, jeans, casual dresses, and sweaters. The latter items are probably what you’ll be packing most of, so rolling can be used to save space.

3. Golden Rule: Bring carry-on luggage and load it with travel essentials – a swim suit, flip flops, sunscreen, underwear, one a la carte dinner-appropriate outfit, and any important medications you may need – in case your luggage is lost or delayed. These items will at least hold you over until you decide how to move forward. Which leads us to…

4. Cross pack your belongings with your travel companion, aka “don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” If you’re bringing two pieces of luggage between you and your travel partner, put half of your items in one bag, and half in the other, to protect you against the impact of losing your luggage and all your belongings along with it.

5. Print clearly or type your luggage tag with your home address and your home/cell numbers as well as your hotel name, phone number, and the dates you are staying. You want to make it as easy as possible to locate your bag if your luggage goes missing.

6. Put a unique identifier on your bag – some people tie a bright and unique scarf to the bag. The more unique, the better. This will avoid people grabbing your luggage by mistake. You may also want to consider colours other than black or other popular shades.

What to pack for a beach resort vacation

Since you will be hitting the beach most of the time, you probably don’t need a large suitcase. You really only need a couple of outfits and some toiletries. Here’s our minimalist guide for how to pack for a beach vacation.

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

• 2-3 swimsuits and 2-3 cover-ups: The bottom line is, you will be living in these. The less swim suits, the less conflicting the tan lines. But it’s also fun to switch it up once and a while and showoff your different styles, especially since you’ll be around the same people all week. The good thing is, you can wash them and have them dry in a couple of hours. Happy medium: 2 or 3. The same goes with cover ups. A couple of light dresses, comfy rompers, or sheer wraps will do.

• 1 pair of comfortable flip flops you don’t mind getting wet for hanging out by the beach or pool

• 1 pair of dressier sandals for a la carte restaurants and enjoying the on-site disco at night

• 1 pair of walking/running shoes: These are important if you plan on taking an excursion or venturing off the resort to discover the city (we recommend you do both!). You can wear these on the plane since they are the heaviest and will keep you warm from that cold airplane air.

• 1 backpack: This is also important for excursions. You may be able to use your carry-on as your backpack if it’s not too big.

• 1 hat and 1 pair of sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun and look cool while you do!

• 1 tote bag: Choose a waterproof beach bag with a zipper and compartments, so you can store your belongings like iPod and sunglasses safely and without sand!

• 5-6 dresses: I live in dresses because they’re airy and are suitable for day or night. They’re perfect for beach days, going to dinner, or hitting the town.

• 1 light sweater for cooler evenings: Nights in the Caribbean can get a little breezy. This sweater can also double as your sweater for the flight.

• 3 shorts and 3 tops: If dresses aren’t your thing, you may want to add more here. A pair of comfortable shorts and t-shirt are important if you’ll be active on an excursion. If you’d like, you may add a skirt or pair of pants for the evenings.

Leave heavy makeup, jewellery, and valuable items at home. You can bring a statement piece of costume jewellery to add colour and accessorize your outfit, like a chunky necklace or coloured watch (which is practical too!). And if you absolutely can’t do without, one pair of wedges is acceptable. So too is a straightener or curling iron – but only one! You won’t be using it much (a beach vacation calls for au natural beach waves!)

Other items to bring with you

Travel documents, passport, travel insurance, spending money for excursions and tipping
Book or kindle, iPad/headphones/iPod
First aid kit: topical antibiotic cream like Polysporin, bandages, bug spray with DEET, after bite, ibuprofen, and aloe vera for burns
Sunscreen
Tide-to-go
Hand sanitizer
Toiletries like moisturizer, mascara, lipgloss, toothbrush/toothpaste, shampoo/conditioner, hair brush, razor, deodorant, body spray, hair ties and bobby pins

Have anything to add? Share your tips on what to pack for a beach resort vacation in the comments.

The impetus to shove an entire closet into a suitcase is one I understand — but not for all the same reasons you might. As a size 16-18 woman, clothing options become sparse as I wander further away from my safety net of in-store and online retailers that carry my size.

And even my shopping options at home are inadequate, if I’m being honest. Only four out of 25 of the largest commercial brands carry above a size 14, making it a burden just to find clothes — and traveling raises the stakes. It’s a quick stop to the local store if you forget shampoo or a toothbrush, but forgetting a crucial frock when you’re plus-size is a hard gaffe to remedy when availability is not on your side. Thus, the impulse to pack everything I own.

Before you take that leap and decide to chance the fate of finding an above size 14 bathing suit while on your vacation (and a cute one, at that), here are some helpful packing cues.

It All Starts With the Suitcase.

Plus-size clothing has more fabric; it’s larger. Even with a perfectly curated selection of clothing or the most intricate hand roll technique, luggage must accommodate the lot. This requires a suitcase to be light-weight, compartmentalized, and have the design foresight to open from the middle, displaying equal parts storage on either side.

Away suitcases are a true work of getaway magic for the plus-size traveler. The carry-on model is sufficient for a four to seven day adventure as it’s decked out with a hard shell case weighing in at seven pounds, two compartments, a compression pad that doubles as a nylon laundry bag, and built-in battery for all your USB devices. It’s the full package wrapped in a travel-friendly, scratch-resistant capsule.

“We kept hearing from people that the best part of soft shell luggage was that you could keep stuffing in more, but hard shell luggage had the advantage of always retaining its outside shape and keeping your clothes more organized. We created the compression pad so that you could have the best of both worlds,” said Steph Korey, co-founder of Away.

Dress Smart for the Plane.

Yes, you could show up to the airport in the most killer sweatpants you own, but this wouldn’t be an efficient use of your travel wardrobe. Let this first key outfit guide your packing strategy. It’s structural, it has the most fabric, it can be worn a few times on your trip, and it easily transitions from day to night.

Think day-to-night.

Choose pieces that are easily elevated with a simple accessory. Do yourself a favor and pack Universal Standard’s Wheaton Sweater Dress — it’s going to make your life a whole lot easier. “The Wheaton is a perfect travel companion because it is three garments in one: it’s a dress, a tunic, and a sweater depending on how you choose to wear it,” says Universal Standard’s co-founder and creative director Alex Waldman.

This triple-threat can compliment a pair of skinny jeans, get tucked into a skirt or paired with tights, be layered under a leather jacket, or be worn as is with a nice pair of loafers. Also, the Geneva Standard Dress is available online at Coverstory and is as comfortable as it is sharp. It’s a sound choice if you’re not entirely sure where the vacation may take you, as it can be dressed up, down, layered, or even slept in.

Utilize Extra Storage.

Utilize the extra storage in places you may have overlooked. Stick socks, tights, bandanas, or extra accessories inside your shoes — or even in the cups of your bra. After they’re folded in, the remaining concave space is perfect for bundled underwear and tanks. The trick: Lay each piece flat, one on top of the other. Roll from one side until you have achieved the skivvies cylinder, and fold that in half. Bind with a rubber band and plant in the bra nook. Voila!

Prioritize.

Prioritize packing items you might not find easily in stores while traveling. Quality plus-size denim, swimsuits, and dresses are best found online, so make sure to bring those items with you. Side note: It’s important to pack a bathing suit no matter where you’re headed. A hotel pool, hot spring, hot tub, or creek could pop up anywhere you go. I went to Utah this past January in the middle of a snowstorm and was thankful I packed my swimsuit for the hotel pool.

Think Before You Accessorize.

Keep accessories to a minimum, especially anything of value. Buy a necklace, cool enamel pins, or earrings that you can wear when you’re back home and remember your trip.

Do not — I repeat: do not — bring brand new shoes on your trip with you. I know they look amazing and you really want to show them off on this trip, but think of the unnecessary blisters you’re going to be experiencing thanks to this luggage space-waster. Do yourself a major favor and bring shoes you know and love.

Find Your Technique.

If all goes to plan and you’re ready to start packing, the last thing you really need to worry about is the technique. Are you a roller or a folder?

We asked Away’s other co-founder, Jen Rubio, what she reccomends: “I fold my clothes flat, never roll. This seems like common sense, but I stack all of my tops together, bottoms together, throw all of my lingerie in a separate little bag. It makes it so much easier to get dressed and put together outfits while on the road.”

How to Pack Two Weeks in a Carry-On

How to Pack for a Week in Hawaii

I don’t think I”ll ever claim to be an expert at packing. I feel like unless you travel really often (like my husband does for work), you kind of get out of practice. But while I may not be fast at packing, I have mastered the art of it for long trips—starting early, strategically planning outfits, editing things down. No more overpacking here! It’s become a proud accomplishment to be able to pack for two, even three, weeks and multiple cities in a single carry-on suitcase. My husband gives me a gold star for my effort, we don’t have pesky baggage fees, and we never face the dreaded lost bag situation. And once we arrive at our destination (or home), we’re on our way—no waiting around the baggage carousel.

What about you guys? Are you a chronic over-packer or a carry-on convert? After our most recent trip to here and here, I snapped a few photos of what I packed so I could share my process with you. This is Part 1 of two posts, and hopefully it will help when it comes time for your next adventure. Maybe you’ll even get a little vacation outfit inspiration too. See what’s in my travel tote and my tips on how to pack for two weeks (and two cities) in just one carry-on!

Travel Tote Essentials

First things, first. Grab a bag–like this one by Madewell–that can fit a lot of travel necessities you’ll want on hand…

A versatile sarong for the beach/pool that doubles as a scarf and triples as a light blanket for the plane
Snacks (I like almonds and apricots) for hunger pangs in between meals
Sunglasses in their case means no scratching
Emergen-C for fighting off colds before and during the trip
Headphones for jams on the plane or beach
iPhone for Instagram and Spotify…but not email or work!
Thick socks for keeping toes warm on the plane
Passports (I carry his, too)
Journal for jotting down favorite spots and memories
iPad for watching movies on long flights
Pen and highlighter for last-minute travel research
Travel guides and a folder with reservation info and printed pre-travel research
Books to read leisurely
Wallet with a bit of cash
A big pouch to put all the little bits and pieces in

Note: When traveling with a laptop, I use a more structured bag (Lo & Sons O.M.G.).

You may be wondering about cameras, lenses, memory cards, phone power cords, outlet adapters…my husband packages all the small pieces into Ziploc bags and carries our gadgets in his personal item (usually a backpack).

10 Tips for Packing Light

Research your destination. What will the weather be like? Are there any cultural sensitivities – is there any clothing not acceptable in certain places (ex. temples, churches, museums)?
Consider your activities. We did a lot of city walking, excursions and beach time during our last two trips. I didn’t bring a single pair of heels and instead opted for cute flat sandals that could transition from day to night.
Plan out your outfits. It’s totally worth the effort and helps prevent overpacking. Pick versatile pieces you can mix and match for different looks. Bring a few accessories to dress things up, but nothing you’d be heartbroken about losing.
Pare down your makeup and toiletries. How much time do you really want to spend doing your hair every day? Skip the heavy, bulky hairdryer and curling iron for sure. Let your hair air dry if you can—and the top knot can become your best friend.
Tightly roll everything. I mean, everything. Rolling takes up less space than folding and minimizes wrinkling.
Layer heavy to light. Shoes first, then heavier rolled clothing (jeans and pants). Lighter materials, especially linen or silk, should be added last.
Reduce your shoe count. Cut back or at least pack shoes that fold very flat. For warm-weather getaways, I pack a pair of sneakers or Toms, a ballet flat, and one (or maybe two) sandals. Cheap flip flops too.
Stuff the extras. Underwear and swimwear can be pushed into an interior pocket. Tuck jewelry in a small pouch or right into a clutch.
Strategize your quart-sized bag. Figure out what your most-needed toiletries are and only what fits in the bag goes. Place it in the exterior pocket of your suitcase for easy removing in the security line.
Don’t forget to leave a little space. A little room in your suitcase and personal item means room for a few travel treasures to bring home.

A note on my travel outfit — I wore a few extra layers while traveling (see image outfit above), since we left with snow at home and returned to it. Thick black leggings and a black tank are my comfortable staples, I just make them airport appropriate with cute flats and long layers on top.

What are your travel tricks? I’d love to hear! Feel free to ask questions about any of the specific items pictured – I’ll gladly answer!

*Also see 12 warm-weather vacation outfits I packed for Mexico and Colombia using these tips!

How to pack for a week in hawaii

Here’s How

Tips

Caroline’s Carry On

Josh’s Carry On

Toiletries

What We Actually Wore

Life is easy in Hawaii, don’t overcomplicate it with a bunch of luggage!

Comments

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Travel Tips

Related Articles

Start with Shorts and Tanks

Add Underwear, Swimwear, PJs and Socks

Go Light with the Layers

(Maybe) Dress Up

Pack Three or Four Pairs of Shoes

Finish With Assorted Accessories

Disclosure

How to Use Compression Packing Cubes

What’s In My Carry-On

What’s In My Tote

How to Use Compression Packing Cubes

What’s In My Carry-On

What’s In My Tote

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. Thank you, we appreciate it!

Hawaiian Style

Spring and Summer Weather in Maui

What To Pack

Gifts To Bring Home

1. Wear your heaviest shoes and clothes on board, and remember to layer, layer, layer.

2. Pick a simple color palette

3. Pack your lightest pairs of shoes (and clothes).

4. Regardless of how long your trip is, pack for one week only!

5. Pack “Must Have” not “Just in Case” or “But I WANT to.”

Sarah Schlichter

3 Answers

9 Answers

Read: Travel clothes that make a curvy girl look good and some cold weather travel clothes options

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Technology

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Essentials

What to Pack for a 2 Week Vacation: Clothes

What About Cell Phone Coverage in Europe?

****How To Pack A Backpack For A 2 Week Vacation****

Comments

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

HOW TO PACK FOR A FOUR PERSON FAMILY IN ONE CHECKED LUGGAGE

TOILETRIES

TOWELS

PACKING CUBES

CLOTHES

TAKE LAYERS ONBOARD

WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIALS

VACUUM BAGS

LAUNDRY POWDER

LIGHTWEIGHT SUITCASE

HOW TO PACK – PACKING LIST FOR TWO ADULTS, A CHILD AND A BABY

These helpful tricks will prevent you from over-or-under packing as you prepare for your next trip.

Size Up Your Carry-On

Pack Clothing Carefully

Add a Personal Item

Hawaii Packing List

Packing for Your Trip to Hawaii

Hawaii Trip Packing Suggestions

Hawaii Packing Items

Terms of Use

Use these strategies to cut the cost of airfare, lodging, dining and entertainment in the Aloha State.

The Editors

What to Wear in Hawaii

T-Shirts & Tank Tops

Shorts

A Floral Dress

A Cover-Up

A Maxi Dress

Sandals

Flip-Flops

Hawaiian Shirt

Hiking Gear

More from SmarterTravel:

How to Pack with Just a Carry-On

How To Pack A Backpack For A 2 Week Vacation