Asking Yourself What Should I pack for 10 days in Hawaii?

Heading to Hawaii for 10 days? Get ready for an unforgettable trip—whether you’re exploring lush rainforests, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or diving into the rich local culture, Hawaii has something for everyone.

But with so much to see and do, you might be wondering, “What should I pack for 10 days in Hawaii?” Don’t worry—as Hawaii locals and Hawaii travel writers, we’ve been there, and we’ve got you covered!

After 20+ countless trips to these beautiful islands and moving here, we’ve perfected the ultimate packing list to ensure you’re prepared for every Hawaii adventure.

So without further ado, here’s your guide on what to pack for 10 days in Hawaii, making sure you’re ready to have the perfect vacation and enjoy everything this tropical paradise has to offer!

Readers also love our guides on the best 6 day itinerary for Oahu or for a shorter visit, Honolulu 2 day itinerary.

You might be interested in staying in Waikiki or the best hotels North Shore Oahu has to offer.

What to Pack for 10 days in Hawaii

Leave the guess work out when it comes to what to pack for 10 days in Hawaii. Your essential packing list for Hawaii includes the following:

• 3x Swimsuits (of course, here are my favorite women’s swim suits of all time! one, two and three)
• Sun Protective Clothing (we love this Women’s Rash Guard and this Men’s Rash Guard.
• Shorts and T-shirts, light tops
• Three Gorgeous Island Style Outfits
• Comfortable Footwear: sandals and hiking or walking shoes (our whole family uses these)
• Reef Safe Sunscreen
• UV-Protective Polarized Sunglasses (we love these men’s 3 pack sun glasses! and these women’s cat eye UV sunglasses)
• Backpack (we’ve been using this ladies one as it’s easy to pack, and this stylish men’s backpack)
• Light pack (we love this men’s packs and women’s one)
• Reusable Grocery Bag (we’ve had this one for years)Water Bottle (we love these insulated water bottles)
  Reusable Grocery Bag (we’ve had this one for years)
• Beach Bag (we have this zippered one)
• Natural Bug Repellent (Kauai)
• Warm Clothes (Maui, Kauai and Big Island)
• Phone Mount for Car (here’s the most reliable phone mount we’ve been using for the past 5 years!)

And as someone who loves to be extremely organized and efficient when packing, we love a fun (and sturdy) packing cube and use them on every trip, whether to Hawaii or elsewhere.

What to bring to the beach in Hawaii

Swim Suits

A large portion of your time in Hawaii will likely be spent enjoying the stunning waters, so it’s essential to have a few swimsuit options on hand.

These are my all time favorite swim suits: swim suit one, two and three!

I always pack at least two or three sets, ensuring that one is always dry and ready to go. A couple of rashguard swimsuits are particularly handy—they offer extra protection from the sun and can be a lifesaver during those active water sports.

When choosing your swimsuits, consider packing one that provides good coverage and allows you to move freely.

You’ll want something that keeps everything in place while you dive into exciting activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or hiking to breathtaking waterfalls. Comfort and confidence are key.

Plus-Size Swimwear Favorites

Plus-size friends, I’ve got you covered! My curvy gal pals swear by this this short sleeve swim suit top and this long sleeve swim suit top. They’re fantastic for anyone who prefers a bit more coverage—myself included! These options are not only stylish but also provide comfort and confidence, making them perfect for enjoying those sun-soaked beach days.

Beach Cover Ups

Do yourself a favor and get one of this beautiful dress beach coverup or this long sleeve coverup. This helps sooo much when you can travel from the beach to restaurants effortlessly while looking chic! Elegant and beachy at the same time – All without having to change.

Rash Guards

Hawaii’s proximity to the equator means it’s sunny and hot all year round! Many visitors are caught off guard by sunburn because the refreshing trade winds can mask how strong the sun’s rays are.

To keep your skin protected while you’re out enjoying water sports or just swimming, I highly recommend wearing a rash guard.

For women, I absolutely LOVE the this Women’s Roxy UPF 50+ Rash Guard. It’s an understatement to say it’s been fantastic—I get compliments everywhere I go, and my skin stays protected! After hours in the sun each week, I’ve experienced zero sun damage thanks to this stylish and effective rash guard.

For men, Deeshen swears by this Quick Silver Men’s UPF 50+ Rash Guard. It’s been a game changer for keeping our skin safe while still letting us enjoy the sun. We’ve tried many rash guards, but this one stands out for its flattering fit and full sun protection. It’s perfect for staying cool and sun-safe during all your beach adventures.

Swim Bottoms That Keep You Cool and Protected

When it comes to swim bottoms, we’ve found some great options that keep us comfortable and sun-safe in Hawaii’s relentless heat.

For men, we’re big fans of these men’s swim pants with UPF 50+ protection. They’re perfect for staying cool and shielded from the sun.

For the ladies, you can’t go wrong with these aqua women’s swim capri pants and these long swimming rash guard pants, both offering UPF 50+ protection. They provide excellent coverage while keeping you stylish and sun-safe.

Believe me, Hawaii’s sun can be intense year-round, so covering up is key. With these swimwear options, you’ll be ready to snorkel, swim, and enjoy the sun without worry.

Speaking of snorkeling… here are the best places and tours for snorkeling by Hawaiian island. (we’ve done all of these and loved every single one!)

• ⭐Oahu Honolulu: Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Boat Tour – Swim through schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful corals. High-end snorkeling gear provided.
  
  
• ⭐Oahu Honolulu: Swim with Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel Tour – Swim with wild dolphins and snorkel with Hawaiian Green sea turtles and tropical reef fish. 
  
  
• ⭐Maui: Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour – Snorkel with Marine Naturalists experts at world-famous Molokini reef, plus a second snorkel spot known for green sea turtles and underwater lava arches.
  
  
• ⭐Big Island: Night Swim with Manta Ray  One of the most incredible things to do in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii is snorkeling with manta rays. These gentle giants amaze us so much, we did this tour twice!
  
  
• ⭐Kauai: Na Pali Coast Full-Day Boat Tour – Seeing the Napali coast by boat is a must-do in Hawaii! In this tour, you’ll visit see the most beautiful mountain ranges in Hawaii, explore caves by boat, and snorkeling at the Forbidden Isle of Niihau.
  

Packable Sun Hat with SPF Protection

For women, I have this breathable sun hat in two colors (trust me, you’re going to neet one with a drawstring so your hat doesn’t go flying off in the Hawaii breeze year round!)

For men, I recommend this breathable breathable sun hat in navy with wide brim so it covers the neck! These are also great cause they are easily packable in backpacks.

The Breathable Outdoor Hat with SPF Protection is an absolute must-pack for your Hawaii adventure. We’re huge fans of these hats and make them a staple every time we head out for a SUP paddle, kayak, or hiking expedition.

What makes them stand out is their fantastic combination of features – they’re easily packable, provide SPF 50 protection, offer excellent breathability, and the wide brim ensures our face and neck stay shielded from the sun’s rays. And when the wind picks up, the handy drawstring ensures the hat stays securely in place

Readers also love our guide on how to ethically visit Hawaii (from a local!).

Wide Brim Hats

An essential addition to our Hawaii packing list includes wide-brim hats for women and stylish fedoras for men. I’ll admit, I have over 10 of these hats in all the colors, and I always get so many compliments when I wear these hats.

While the breathable hats mentioned earlier prioritize skin protection, it’s equally important to capture stylish, picture-perfect moments.

Elevate your look with the added flair of a wide-brimmed hat for women or a classic fedora for men, seamlessly blending style and sun protection. These versatile accessories are perfect things to bring to Hawaii and effortlessly complementing any cute outfit you choose to rock.

Sunscreen

Don’t skip sunscreen in your Hawaii checklist! Make sure to buy sunscreen ahead of time, so you’re ready to hit the beach on day one.

• Coral-Reef Safe Sunscreen: Ensure comprehensive sun protection with water-resistant options for those beach escapes. Protect the delicate marine ecosystem by using sunscreens that are safe for coral reefs. Ensure your skin and the ocean stay healthy.
• Blue Lizard sunscreen is the best face sunscreen and we love the easy application stick
• Supergoop SPF 50 Antioxidant Body Mist is a great sunscreen. A more affordable alternative is Alba Hawaiian sunscreen with SPF 50.
• Hand Sanitizer: Stay clean on the go, especially important in outdoor and beach settings.
  

Water Activities – Swimming and Snorkel Gear Essentials for Hawaii

Next, we’re diving right right into swimming gear because if you’re going to Hawaii, most likely it’s to head to the beach! Dive into Hawaii’s gorgeous beaches with the right gear. You might even spot a Hawaiian sea turtle and learn about its spiritual meaning!

You can buy/rent snorkel gear in Hawaii, but we always recommend buying them in advance to get the best quality gear that fit properly so you enjoy every moment with ease. We also recommend buying your snorkel gear in advance and trying them on, so that you can choose the style that suits you best, enhancing your comfort and enjoyment during underwater exploration.

Snorkel Masks:

Snorkeling allows you to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Having the right gear ensures a comfortable and immersive experience. Pick from the following options:

Full Face Snorkel Mask: Deeshen prefers a full face snorkel mask like the WSTOO Snorkel Mask (pink and blue). We love it because it has a 180 Degree panoramic view and you can breathe normally comfortably, without having to breath through a mouth piece. It looks quite cool and we always get a ton of comments like “whoa, I wish we got one of those!” from fellow snorkel-ers. The color selection is also on point!

If you prefer the traditional snorkel face mask where you breathe out of a mouthpiece, we love this Fritton Snorkel Mask (clear and black). We’ve tested a bunch of them because Jade had a hard time getting used to mouth pieces, other mask sets would make her gag. This was the best one and zero leakage! Snorkel masks protect your eyes from saltwater and enhance your underwater visibility during snorkeling.

Snorkel Fins:

Improve your underwater agility and make the most of your snorkeling adventures with the right fins. We love these affordable and reliable CAPAS Snorkel Fins (turquoise and purple) If you’re snorkeling anywhere that has a current, you’re going to want to be wearing snorkel fins. It’ll help you glide fast in the water and not get washed away with the current!

Snorkel Shoes:

Some days, you just don’t want to wear big fins and swim closer to shore. For those days, protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral with snorkel shoes, enhancing both safety and comfort. We absolutely love these women’s water shoes and men’s water shoes, it has a simple no-tie laces, and works for casual hikes. In our 5 years of visiting Hawaii and tropical places, we’ve only had to replace these snorkel shoes once.

Readers also love our sunrise in Oahu, and where to see turtles in Oahu guides!

Swim Life Jackets:

Safety first! Even confident swimmers can benefit from the added security of a life jacket, especially when exploring unfamiliar waters. We LOVE these inflatable life jackets (black or blue) for snorkeling and paddling. These lifejackets are inflatable so it’s easy to pack for on-the-go; you can easily throw it in a tote bag or dry bag. They also look pretty fashionable compared to most life jackets.

Dry Bag:

Aside from a beach bag, you’ll need a dry bag. Keep your valuables safe and dry, allowing you to fully enjoy water activities worry-free. We regularly use these HEETA dry bags (pink or blue) We’ve had ours for 5 years and it’s gone with us to paddling, kayaking, water excursions; it’s still holding up strong so it’s definitely worth the investment! We regularly use the 10L size; it’s perfect for throwing in keys, wallet, one inflatable life jacket, and one water bottle. If you also want to pack a jacket or snacks in the bag, go for the 20L size.

Beach Blanket and Resistant Beach Towel

Ensure your beach days are pure relaxation with a lightweight, sand-resistant beach blanket and resistant beach towel, and a big beach bag to pack all your gear in. Perfect for lounging, picnics, and soaking in the sun.

Antifog spray (or dish soap!)

Applying antifog will help you heaps when you are going snorkeling. This is the best antifog out there and prevents your googles glasses from getting foggy!

Before using this, my googles would get foggy every few minutes, using these to snorkel at Hanauma bay (Oahu), in Kauai, or on the big island snorkeling with manta rays!

Water bottle

Hydration is key, especially in the tropical Hawaiian climate. Bring a durable, reusable water bottle to stay refreshed whether you’re on the beach or conquering hiking trails.

My Top Hawaii Recommendations
Before we dive into this guide, here are a few things you can’t miss on your trip to Hawaii!

🐢Swimming With Hawaiian Sea Turtles: Hawaii is one of the best places to swim, snorkel, and dive with Hawaiian sea turtles. Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!  Best turtle snorkel tour.

🚤Nighttime Swimming with Manta Rays: Hawaii’s Kailua-Kona is only place in the world to have a resident of Manta Rays that stay there year round. It is one of the best places to swim with huge Manta Rays, beautiful gentle creatures. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!  Best Manta Ray Cruise (only on Big Island).

🚌Oahu Island Circle Tour: Experience the top sightseeing bus tour on Oahu with this island day trip. Explore Oahu’s natural wonders, cultural sites, surfing spots, and shopping meccas on this full-day tour. Exceptional Oahu Circle Island tour.

🚌Luau and Polynesian Cultural Center: The Ha Breath of Life Luau at Polynesian Cultural Center is the best luau in Hawaii. The interactive activities at the center is one of the best family and couples activity to learn about Hawaiian culture. Best Luau and cultural excursion.

🌴Lanikai Beach: Called Hawaii’s most beautiful beach, Lanikai beach is a 30 minutes north of Honolulu and is a must-visit spot during sunrise!

🐋Whale Watching Boat Tour: Embark of a whale exploration for the day. Whale season starts in December and lasts until mid-April. Whales arrive yearly in the Hawaiian Islands after a 3,000 mile journey. If you are visiting Hawaii during this time, don’t miss out and reserve your seat to see these magnificent creatures.

🦖Jurassic Valley Zipline Tour: Zipline through world-famous Kualoa Ranch and soar over Jurassic Valley on over a quarter mile of the world famous moutains. Get a bird’s eye view of famous iconic scenery from Jurassic Park, Jurassic World. Best zipline tour.

🏨Where to Stay: An ocean view suite with boho luxury vibes at the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, a gorgeous modern suite with a ocean front view near the beautiful Ala Moana Beach and the world-famous Waikiki Beach, at Prince Waikiki, or a downtown friendly suite outside of town near the Hawaii State Art Museum at Aston at the Exceutive Centre Hotel.

Clothing and Outfits for Hawaii Vacation:

Pack wisely for varying conditions in Hawaii, where the weather can be unpredictable.

Outfit Checklist for Hawaii vacation:

• Five outfits for six days. Pack breathable clothing such as dresses, shorts, shirts, and tank tops. Opt for breathable materials made with cotton, linen or polyester material. Leave denim and jeans at home.
• Rash guards and bathing suits – 2-3 so that you don’t have to wait for them to dry
• Undergarments
• Socks
• Light rain jacket – One light rain jacket for cooler evenings or breezy mornings. Hawaii is a tropical place so the trade winds often blow by.

Below are 3 of my favorite dresses for Hawaii and tropical vacations! Flowy dresses are a must! 🌴

Rain Jacket

Rain and Islands Go Hand in Hand. There are more than 200 words in Hawaiian for rain. The majority of the time, rain falls as mist, or kili ʻohu. During the summer, ua loa (rainstorms) are rare and might come and go rapidly. Be prepared for sudden changes in the tropical weather, ensuring you stay comfortable during cooler evenings or unexpected rain showers. Deeshen loves his Helly-Hansen Men’s Crew Hooded Midlayer Jacket. We’ve had it for 3 years and it still looks new after many adventures around the world.

Footwear

Proper footwear is essential for Hawaii’s diverse trails. From beach to steep ascents to muddy paths, having the right shoes ensures a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

• Hiking sandals are the most versatile shoes for a Hawaii vacation. If you only pack one pair of shoes, pack the Chacos hiking sandals we recommended.
• Hiking shoes if I plan to adventurous trails with rocks. If it’s not rocky, hiking sandals is sufficient.
• Snorkel Shoes – This will absolutely unlevel any Hawaii vacation and allow you to go in the water with confident and no foot pain.
• Tennis shoes – great for the plane ride, and easy strolls. Hiking sandals will still be your best friends.
• Flip flops aka Slippah’s – what locals call in place of sandals here. These are perfect for home or lounging around in beaches.
• 1 pair of high heels IF you plan to go for fancy date nights. If not, skip it.

Best Shoes for Hawaii

Footwear is one of the most important additions that significantly enhanced our Hawaii experiences—an investment that truly paid off.

The versatility of Chacos hiking sandals (men’s and women’s) is unparalleled; whether you’re hitting the beach, tackling a challenging hike, or embarking on a day of local exploration, these are the best shoes to pack for Hawaii (hands down)!

As locals, we absolutely love our Chacos, and they’ve become our daily go-to footwear! Their nonslip design, exceptional grip on even the sharpest rocks, and convenient slip-on style make them an absolute favorite. Having experimented with various other hiking sandals, we can confidently say that none quite match up in terms of quality. Moreover, Jade, who has flat feet, finds these sandals exceptionally comfortable.

Pro-tip: Unless you’re hiking hard core rocky hikes, you won’t need to pack hiking boots, a hiking sandal is enough! If you want a hiking boot, we love these Columbia Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boots and these comfortable men’s hiking boots.

Tech Gear to pack for Hawaii

Embark on thrilling hikes and scenic explorations with the right gear!

Backpack

I love this ladies travek backpack for the past 3 years, and use it everytime I travel locally or internationally.

Opt for a versatile and comfortable backpack to carry your essentials. From reef safe sunscreens to snacks, having a reliable backpack ensures you’re well-prepared for any adventure that comes your way.

Binoculars

Ensure your Hawaii vacation packing list is complete with the best on-the-go Binoculars! Binoculars an essential item to pack, especially if you plan to explore Hawaii’s Big Island and marvel at the spectacular Kīlauea volcano or engage in the fascinating world of bird watching. Kīlauea, being the youngest and most active volcano in the world, provides a mesmerizing display of nature’s raw power! When the volcano is erupting, having binoculars on hand becomes indispensable, allowing you to witness the incredible lifeforce of the lava – a truly life-changing experience.

If you are as fascinated with bird watching as we are, Hawaii offers some exceptional spots. Our favorite bird watching spots in Hawaii are Kaena Point Bird Sanctuary on Oahu’s Northshore, Popoia Island on Oahu’s east side (accessible by kayak or paddle), or the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge in Kauai.

These locations promise unforgettable birdwatching experiences, and binoculars will enhance your ability to observe the diverse avian life! If your family’s itinerary includes any of these activities, then packing binoculars is not just a suggestion – it’s a necessity for an enriching and memorable Hawaii vacation.

Photography Gear

Capture the moments with stability and clarity using a camera, tripod, and stabilizer.

• Phone: Often your phone is the best camera for quick shots
  
• Waterproof phone case: If you bring your phone, it’s also a good idea to get a waterproof phone case so you can protect your phone while you’re paddling, kayaking, or swimming
  
• Professional Camera for Wildlife, Volcanoes National Park, and Nature: If you’re looking for more professionals shots, we love the Sony Alpha a7S III Mirrorless DSLR with the 24-70mm lens. It’s the top of the line camera in capturing both cinematic videos and photos.
  
• On-the-go Camera: If you’re looking for something more on the go, we love the the Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Compact Camera and the DJI Pocket 2 for a portable vlogging style
  
• Go Pro or Other Underwater Camera: GoPro Hero10 Black for underwater captures and capturing marine life

Toiletries:

Bug Spray

If you want to spend any time in the jungle (such as on a trek or a rainforest zipline excursion), you should absolutely bring bug repellent. Mosquitoes can be pretty nasty, and nothing goes better with beach shots than having your body covered in enormous welt-like insect bites!

Dramamine

If you’re going on a whale-watching or snorkeling tour, bring some dramamine, especially if you’re prone to motion or sea sickness. It’s far more difficult to appreciate the beauty of humpback whales, the ocean, or whatever while resisting the want to barf.

I don’t recommend it for helicopter tours though. I fell asleep during a helicopter tour because of it.

Ginger Chews

Equally effective as dramamine for motion sickness are ginger chews. Pack a bag or pick one up at a local drug store. I’ve tested many brands and these are the best ginger chews for motion sickness! I try not to eat medicine when I don’t need to, and with this, I don’t need dramamine at all! (I usually eat one before and one during the activity)

Documents, Chargers and Emergency Supplies

Keep your important documents organized and accessible.

Important Documents:

• Passport
• Driver’s license

Print Outs or Digitalized Copies of Important Documents:

• Have backups of essential documents such as your passport, plane tickets, and car rental confirmation, ensuring a smooth journey.

Emergency Supplies:

• Downloaded Offline Maps: Ensure you can navigate even without an internet connection.
• Pads, Band-Aids, and any necessary personal medications.

Phone + Chargers:

• Phone chargers
• Plug converters if you’re coming from another country
• Music and Podcasts: USB with a curated playlist. Downloaded podcasts for the road.

Vacation Journal for Reflections

Traveling to Hawaii is transformational. Keeping a notebook is one method to get the most out of your trip. Write down your inner thoughts or write on what you’ve just learned. Writing down your sentiments and observations while enjoying a historical site, dining locally, or simply relaxing on the beach can help you remember those moments and will help you remember better when you return home and need a little taste of paradise.

3 Items to Leave Off Your Hawaii Packing List

If you follow the categories in the list above, you should have everything you need to fully enjoy your vacation. But there are a few things we want to encourage you to leave at home.

As noted, island environments are delicate ecosystems and as such, Hawaii has rules about what you can bring—rules created to maintain the beautiful place we call home. We ask for your kōkua (help) to protect the Hawaiian islands for generations to come.

1. Fruits, Vegetables, and Invasive Plants

The Department of Agriculture has strict guidelines prohibiting the introduction of foreign organisms that put Hawaii’s unique plant and animal life at risk. Furthermore, the Agriculture Department has stringent regulations against the introduction of foreign organisms that put Hawaii’s unique plant and animal life at risk.

Clean your hiking boots and backpacks before you leave for your tropical holiday. It’s possible that during their prior usage, they gathered up seeds, which might later fall off and bring invasive plant species into Hawaii.

In addition, a lot of fruits and vegetables are forbidden. You won’t miss anything because the Hawaiian islands are home to a large number of grocery stores that stock the same products as the mainland.

2. Pets – Leave Max at Home

Animals entering Hawaii are quarantined and subject to strict guidelines. Your animal will be much happier with a pet sitter at home. If you have a service dog, know the requirements before showing up. 

3. Excessive Electronics

While it’s important to have essentials like your a tablet or laptop, consider leaving behind excessive electronic devices. You’ll likely spend much of your time outdoors enjoying Hawaii’s natural beauty, so minimize distractions and focus on immersing yourself in the surroundings. Opt for a reflection journal instead, and putting your phone on silent.

What to Bring to Hawaii for 10 days FAQs

Visiting Hawaii but have no idea what to bring to Hawaii for a week? Borrow our Hawaii pack list with all the things to pack for your Hawaii vacation with family or friends. From the best snorkel gear, to best rash guards, sunscreens, outfits, essentials, and more!

And there you have it… our ultimate Hawaii packing list with all the best time tested products from over 20+ trips to Hawaii! Hawaii is one of the best places to travel in the world and it will change your life! Say aloha to stress-free packing and to the vacation of a lifetime.

Below are a few additional FAQs on packing for Hawaii. If you have any other questions, feel free to comment it below and we’ll answer them!

Your Vacation Itinerary will impact your Packing List for Hawaii

What you pack for Hawaii will largely depend on your itinerary, the islands you’re visiting, the time of year, and the activities you have planned. Whether you’re gearing up for the best Oahu sunrise hikes, paddling to spot Hawaii sea turtles, or just soaking up the sun on world-class beaches, your gear will vary. It’s a good idea to map out your activities before diving into your packing.

What Are Your Vacation Goals?

If your main goal is to relax by the sea and sunbathe, your packing list will focus on beachwear and essentials. However, if you’re planning on hiking, bird watching, or exploring cultural sites, you’ll need to pack accordingly.

For mountain adventures and rainforest adventures, warm clothing and insect repellent are must-haves. If you’re heading to a rainier island like Kaua‘i, a rain jacket is essential. And if tropical hikes are on your agenda, don’t forget bug repellent and sturdy hiking sandals or boots.

When is the best time to visit Hawaii?

Having lived in Hawaii through all seasons and explored every island, I can tell you that anytime is a great time to visit!

Hawaii’s weather is warm year-round, but if you’re looking to save a bit, aim for the shoulder seasons—April, May, September, and October.

Winter is fantastic for whale watching and seeing professional surfers in action as whales migrate from Alaska. June, July, and December are the busiest months, but an early morning start can help you avoid the crowds.

Packing for Volcano National Park Viewing

Witnessing an active volcano is an unforgettable experience. If you’re heading to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, you might catch a glimpse of Kīlauea in action.

Check the weather and wind conditions before you go. It can get chilly and windy at the observation platform, so dress warmly.

Similarly, if you’re planning to watch the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park on Maui, bring a lightweight jacket and pants. The early wake-up is definitely worth it for that stunning view.

What to Wear to a Luau?

When attending a luau, Hawaiian attire is a fun choice but not mandatory. You can easily pick up an Aloha shirt or dress locally. If not, dress smartly as you would for a nice dinner out.

Since luaus are often held on sandy beaches or soft surfaces, flat sandals are a great choice for comfort.

Do I need a car to get around Hawaii?

Yes! Having a car is crucial for exploring Hawaii’s hidden gems, from secluded beaches to breathtaking sunrises.

Make sure to bring a  reliable phone mount for easy navigation—our favorite mount has been a lifesaver on countless trips over the years!

We use DiscoverCars, a highly rated platform for booking rental cars. It has a flexible free cancellation policy and often offers free additional drivers. You can also book rental cars without paying first, and only paying when you pickup your car. This is great to lock in a good rate!

Do You Really Need Bug Spray?

If you plan to hike or spend time in tropical rainforests, insect repellent is a must. While it’s generally not needed at the beach, it’s a good idea to have it handy if you’re venturing inland.

You can easily pick some up once you’re here if you forget to pack it.

Do you need water shoes in Hawaii?

Yes! Water shoes are recommended for any Hawaii vacation. They come in real handy especially for rocky or coral beaches, water sports, or hiking waterfalls. I

f you’re planning to do any water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling, water shoes are a must and can provide extra grip and protection.

However, if you’re lounging poolside at your hotel, you probably won’t need them. Still, I encourage you to get outdoors and enjoy everything Hawaii has to offer!

Final Thoughts: What to pack for 10 days in Hawaii

We hope you found this list of Hawaii vacation essentials helpful as you prepare to pack for your Hawaii vacation! We hope you love Hawaii as much as we do.

If there’s anything you would add to this list, let us know in the comments below.