Hawaii calling: leave Grandma’s sweater at home and find out what to pack in your backpack
You’ve finally managed to put together an amazing trip to Hawaii: white beaches, perfect surf waves, breathtaking sunsets... what an incredible dream!
But there’s one small problem: what on earth should you pack in your backpack?
Okay, let’s rule out the wool sweater your grandma gave you, because under the blazing tropical sun it’s definitely not the most appealing option—but what else should you bring?
Well, lucky you, we’re here to solve all your Hawaiian packing dilemmas.
In this article, we’ll guide you through what to pack before you leave. Whether you’re planning relaxing beach days, adventurous jungle hikes, or even surf sessions, here you’ll find all the information you need.
Let’s go!
Read also: Where to go snorkeling? In Hawaii, of course! Here are the coolest spots in the archipelago!
Hawaii’s climate: sun, rain and... snow??? Seriously?
First of all, let’s talk about the weather.
Hawaii is, of course, a tropical paradise all year round, but watch out for seasonal differences. There are two main seasons: the dry season (from April to October) and the wet season (from November to March).
During the dry season, needless to say, you can expect lots of warm, sunny days, perfect for exploring Hawaii’s stunning beaches. But in the wet season, be prepared for downpours that, while not too frequent, can sometimes pour buckets of rain when they do arrive.
Don’t worry, though, because temperatures stay pleasantly warm all year long.
Oh, and don’t forget about the microclimates!
As we already explained in a previous article, the different Hawaiian islands have varying weather conditions, even from one area of the same island to another. For example, on the Big Island, the coasts are warm and humid, while the mountainous areas can be cool and even snowy in winter!
In short, be prepared for anything.
The StaGranGuide to the ideal clothing for Hawaii
Alright, now that we’ve covered the weather, we’re ready to get to the heart of the article: here’s what you absolutely shouldn’t forget to put in your backpack before heading off to the most incredible archipelago in the world!
Beach and sea
When you think of Hawaii, dream beaches are probably the first thing that comes to mind, right? So, don’t forget your swimsuit!
It’s a good idea to bring more than one, so you’ll always have a dry one ready, and for walking from the beach to nearby areas, a cover-up is essential.
And for your feet? Flip-flops, of course, called “slippahs” by the locals. And please, don’t even think about wearing socks with your slippahs—or we might never forgive you!
Hikes and trekking
Hawaii isn’t just about beaches—there are also wonderful hikes to enjoy.
If you’re planning to explore rainforests or climb volcanoes, you’ll need technical, breathable clothing. Think short-sleeved shirts, lightweight trousers, and sturdy hiking shoes.
A lightweight but sturdy backpack is also perfect for carrying water, food, and other essentials during your hikes.
Oh, remember those sudden downpours we mentioned earlier? Well, it’s a very good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket too, unless you want to end up completely soaked.
Sports activities (surfing, snorkeling, etc.)
If you’re a fan of water sports, Hawaii is the right place for you.
Bring surf clothing, such as a rash guard and boardshorts, along with anything else that makes you look ready to hit the waves. And if you love snorkeling, proper gear is a must: mask, snorkel, and fins.
Of course, you can also rent everything there. Why stuff your backpack with all that gear if you don’t have to?
Evening wear
Hawaii is known for its relaxed atmosphere, so a casual look is the way to go. Short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and those essential slippahs are perfect for the evenings. You can mix and match these items to create different outfits without having to bring your entire wardrobe.
Essential accessories
When packing your backpack, you should also make sure to bring some must-have accessories, starting with sunglasses, because the sun can be very strong throughout the day. For the same reason, don’t forget a hat to protect your head and a good sunscreen for the sunniest days.
If you’re the adventurous type and enjoy activities like trekking, bring along a small first-aid kit too, because unexpected things can always happen. We’re not saying this to worry you, but you never know—it’s always better to be prepared!
Read also: Who built Edinburgh Castle and what’s the story behind Scotland’s most impressive fortress?
In conclusion
Now you’re ready to set off for Hawaii with the perfect backpack for every occasion: the secret to making the most of your experience is being prepared for every situation, whether it’s a day at the beach, some great surfing on the waves, a hike into the heart of the island, or an evening walk in the cool air.
Follow our advice and you’ll be ready to enjoy all the amazing things Hawaii has to offer!
While we’re at it, here’s one last suggestion: don’t go alone—come to Hawaii with us! We’ve put together a pretty great 14-day itinerary that includes everything you could wish for: lazy beach days, snorkeling in the best spots in the archipelago, trekking along the top trails on the main islands, and soooo much more!
Take a look and book your spot on the next departure!
