Post Summary: A Complete Hawaii Packing List for a 1-Week Adventure
Berty and I have been diving into the adventurous Hawaiian island of Kauai. Also known as “The Garden Isle”, this place is filled with lush greenery to explore and white sandy beaches in all directions.
With so many different activities to do, we did some research “what do you pack for Hawaii?”
We’re happy to report that we packed the right stuff, and we want you to be well-equipped too.
In this post, we’re sharing our adventurous Hawaii packing list with you. This is for anyone who wants to get outside and connect with their surroundings!
*This is not a luxurious Hawaii packing list.
Berty and I like to get deep into nature, so if you’re looking to immerse yourself in all the rugged fun that Kauai (or any other Hawaiian island) has to offer, read on to find out what to add to your adventurous Hawaii packing list!
What To Pack For Kauai: Adventure Edition
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product we recommend we may receive a small commission.
Before we begin, here are some things to know about Kauai:
- The dress code for Kauai (and really all the other Hawaiian islands) is very casual. Leave your fancy clothes at home.
- Pack clothes that you are willing to get dirty and muddy. The red dirt on this island stains everything! (Aka no white!)
- Bring clothes that dry relatively quickly. We got caught in surprise downpours a lot.
READ MORE: 11 Once-In-A-Lifetime Things To Do In Kauai
What To Pack In your Hawaii Carry On: (Also Read More: 30 Carry-On Essentials For The Light Packer)
When considering what comes with you on the plane, remember these two things:
- Bring anything valuable that you don’t want out of your sight. Never check a camera, laptop, or anything else expensive in a suitcase. Keep track of those things!
- Pack just enough to survive without your suitcase for 1 day. This means packing an extra pair of clothes and basic toiletries in case your bag gets misplaced.
Soft-Cased Overnight Bag
Use a soft-cased bag for your Hawaii carry-on essentials so it can easily squish into that overhead compartment. We like the Patagonia Black Hole Mini Duffel/Backpack for its versatility – it can be used as a day pack during your trip!
Sturdy Backpack For Tech Items
In addition to your soft-cased carry on, use a study backpack for all your tech items. We absolutely love our PRVKE Bags by WANDRD. They have compartments for all your gear, convenient zippers, and a smart design for savvy travelers (like you!).
Refillable Water Bottle
Refillable water bottles are a really great way to support sustainability and ditch those plastic airport bottles! This will also come in handy in warm and tropical Hawaii.
See Price at Backcountry.com >
1 Change of Clothes
When packing for Hawaii, make sure to bring loose, comfy clothes for the plane. We like to wear natural-fiber pants that look a little more put together than sweats, but still ultra-comfy! And pockets are a must!
Laptop Case
Make sure to bring a sturdy laptop case for your electronics! No time for tech accidents on your trip to Hawaii, so it’s worth investing in protection.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are an absolute essential on long flights. Keep them close (or already around your neck) so you can easily put them on in your seat.
Toiletries:
Our tip-top toiletry tips (try saying that 3 times fast): Want to avoid overpacking? Keep those tiny sample bottles and fill them up with your favorite products for your trip. Save space and take only what you need. If you want to to buy some reusable travel-sized bottles, try these ones made by Nalgene or these squeezable ones from GoToobs.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Face wash and moisturizer
- Mini hairbrush
- Chapstick
- Aloe Vera
- Bug Spray
What To Check In Your Suitcase:
Shoes:
- Sandals For Town: Like these Tevas – pack a fuss-free pair for walking around town.
- Sandals To Get Wet: Here’s a pair of Crocs that are simple and stylish. They may not be the most fashion-forward choice but they are the real MVP in those Hawaiian downpours. Crocs are extremely easy to clean and dry, and there are more options than just the clog style.
- Hiking Shoes/Boots: There are a lot of short and beautiful hikes on the island that only require a good pair of walking shoes. However, if you’re looking to hike the Kalalau Trail or the Kalepa Ridge, you’re going to need some sturdy boots (like these waterproof ones) that can handle the rain and mud.
Read More: 12 Best Warm-Weather Walking Sandals For Travel
Clothing:
- 3-5 tanks tops (like these quick dry ones)
- 2-3 pairs of shorts
- Underwear to last your entire trip
- EXTRA SOCKS – We changed our socks a lot after wet, muddy hikes
- 1-2 pairs of quick-dry leggings/athletic shorts (click here for men’s shorts / women’s shorts)
- 1 simple skirt
- 1 zip-up hoodie
- 2 lightweight long sleeve shirts
- 2 swimsuits
- 1 swimsuit cover
- Pair of pajamas
- Lightweight rain jacket (Read More: Our Favorite Rain Jackets)
Read More: Wanna Go Carry-On Only? Read This.
Hawaii Packing List: Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Beach/Hiking Hat
- Bandana or headband for those hot tropical afternoons
- Fanny Pack
- Day Pack, like this Kavu shoulder bag
- Hammock + straps
Gear
Most of these should go in your carry-on, but consider packing larger items like tripods and accessories to lighten your load in the airplane cabin.
- Camera extras (extra batteries + memory cards)
- Gnarbox for easy uploading + storing high quality images
- Laptops + Chargers
- Dry Bag: If you’re looking to go out on a boat, you’ll need one of these
- Tripod – for photos together with your friends!
Read More: Our Complete Travel Photography Gear List
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What is on your Hawaii Packing List? Do you pack adventurous like us or are you packing to lounge at the beach? Let us know in the comments below!
READ MORE ADVENTURES
5 Reasons Why You Should Take A Kauai Helicopter Tour
Stay In A Treehouse In Hawaii (The Best Big Island Airbnb)
11 Once-In-A-Lifetime Things To Do In Kauai
The Ultimate Bali Guide: 10 Day Itinerary
How To Get Rid Of Jet Lag Fast
Follow Our Kauai Inspiration Board on Pinterest for more adventurous ideas on the island!