Whether you are going to the islands for your wedding, anniversary, or dream vacation, you need to know what to take with you.
Even if you have been to beaches in other places, Hawaii is unique and presents challenges for the unprepared traveler.
Below you will find a list of tips designed to help you enjoy your trip and not be swayed by those challenges.
Clothes & shoes
Of course, if you are traveling for your wedding you have some special items that are not on this list. But after the wedding, you will find this is a pretty good index.
BONUS TIP: all the clothes you take should be moisture-wicking, quick drying due to heat, sea winds, and sporadic showers.
- Casual, casual, & more casual
The dress code on the islands is almost always casual. Even nice restaurants find khaki shorts and a nice top acceptable. Polo shirts are great for men. You should have at least 3 pairs of khaki shorts with you. Take several shirts so you can go anywhere with just a top change.
- Long pants
Take a pair of long pants with you. There are some fun things like horseback riding, climbing over lava walls that you do not want to miss because your legs are unprotected. BONUS TIP: take a cute skirt with you. You can roll it up and it takes little space in your bag. When you want to be just a little more dressed up, a skirt will look great with any top.
- Swimsuits
Take two swimsuits per person. That allows one to dry while you wear the other. They also have some awesome suits on the islands so you probably will come home with more than two.
Forget me nots
You will be traveling. This means you are not operating on your regular schedule. You are rushing at times and anxious when you try new things (like a helicopter trip to a live volcano, that may be in your Hawaii package.) You will be trying exotic foods and drinks, and experiencing a different culture. So, here are a few things we suggest you tuck away in a pocket of your bag.
- Over the counter (or prescription if you need them) motion sickness pills.
Flying, boating, deep-sea diving, and many other things can cause motion sickness. Always have a travel sized bottle with you.
- Diarrhea medicine and medication for heartburn and gas
(need we explain?)
- Prescriptions
BONUS TIP: take the medications you need in the bottles with the labels on them if possible. If you take a lot of medications and need to carry them in a pill organizer, take a list of the prescriptions you are prescribed from your doctor or pharmacy. Make sure you have enough medication for your trip and keep them in your carry-on.
- Panty liners
Panty liners keep you feeling fresh and dry and stop odor. Let’s face it – it is not always easy to find a little girl’s room.
- Little bag of candy to recover swiftly in case sudden hunger strikes.
BONUS TIP: You are very limited by the airlines regarding what liquids you can take on the plane. It is a good idea to buy the basics when you get to the hotel. You can also ship a box of products to the hotel and have it waiting for you. Ship unopened products, in plastic bottles, well packed and wrapped in bubble wrap. Be aware you will pay a little extra to ship it, but it will save you a lot of time.
If you are on your honeymoon, don’t forget to keep your Plumfund.com registry updated. People who are looking for gifts for you may want to chip in on some of your adventures.
For a real cultural experience, get off the well-traveled tourist areas and experience the real people of Hawaii. Shop where the locals shop and you will see big savings.
