What to Pack for 10 Days in Hawaii

1/19/2019 11 Comments

What to Pack: 10 Days in Hawaii

I have a confession...I'm a serial over packer. Like I have a serious problem. I don't really mind packing (minus the fact that I ALWAYS feel like I'm forgetting something!) But my strategy for most trips is to just grab whatever looks cute out of my drawers and closet and throw it in a big pile on the bed. But this time around, since I was showcasing my suitcase to the world, I tried to be a bit more strategic about what I was bringing and plan specific outfits for each day based on our itinerary.

Since it is our second time to the islands I had a much better idea of what I would need this time around. As I've mentioned before we are super active on our trips (hiking, biking, snorkeling, etc.) and on our last trip I quickly ran out of active wear. Another lesson learned was how laid back the island life really is. We did go to a few nice dinners and nighttime activites but even at the nicer restaurants you'll blend right in with a sundress and sandals.

Some of our planned activities include:

Hiking
Snorkeling
Golfing
Sunset boat cruise
Whale watching boat cruise
Mountain tubing
Sightseeing, shopping, dinners, etc.

Another thing to keep in mind is what to actually pack your stuff in. Sadly Southwest (and their two free checked bags) don't fly everywhere we want to go. But my husband and I always try to still save a few bucks when traveling together. On this trip we plan to fit everything into only one checked bag, two carryons and our personal bags which saves a couple hundred dollars in baggage fees. Well, let's get packing!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Clothes/Accessories

3 tropical sundresses
3 rompers (I have a slight obsession)
4 pair shorts (2 jean; 1 khaki; 1 coral)
2 pair athletic shorts
1 pair athletic capris
1 pair joggers (this is what I like to fly in)
4 athletic topcs
2 casual t-shirts
3 dressy tops
3 tank tops
Long sleeve pullover (for travel and visiting Haleakala which gets colder)
One light sweater for evenings
1 packing cube of underwear, socks, 3 sports bras, regular bra
Pasties (ladies if you haven't tried these you're missing out)
4 swim suits (2 one piece, 2 bikini)
1 jewelry bag
Baseball hat
Fedora
Beach hat (I have a hat problem okay)

Shoes

1 pair athletic shoes (I usually travel in these because they take up the most room)
Water shoes
Hiking sandals
Sperry's/boat shoes
2 pair dressy sandals

Extras/Travel Accessories

2 pair sunglasses
Hiking backpack
Beach blanket
Wine diaper (you know I'm bringing back that Pineapple wine)
Waterproof phone pouch
Travel umbrella
Fabric headband
Running belt
Maui/Kauai Guidebook
Portable car charger (this was a must last time in the rental car)

Personal Bag

Small crossbody purse
Hard copies of all travel documents/itineraries
Books/magazines
Phone charger
Travel pillow
Earbuds
Refillable water bottle

Toiletries

1 makeup bag
1 shower bag (travel size dry shampoo, hairspray, shampoo and conditioner, hair texturizing spray, body wash)
1 medicine bag (seasick pills, ibuprofen, tums)
Hair straightner
Bugspray
Sunscreen
Bandaids/blister pads

What am I missing? What are your travel must haves? Share with me in the comments below!

Other blogs you might enjoy:
- A Day in Lahaina Town
- A Day in Upcountry Maui
- Most Insta-worthy Spots on Maui
- Maui Must Sees: 5-day Itinerary
- 5-day Itinerary on Maui (trip #2)
- Top Eats and Treats on Maui

11 Comments

Angela link

1/21/2019 06:57:23 am

I would love to go to Hawaii one day- it is on my list for sure! This was super helpful for my upcoming trip to texas since I tend to overpack as well, ha! Can't wait to see pics from your trip!

Angela | Cue the Coffee

Jessica

1/21/2019 02:33:20 pm

So glad you found it helpful! Texas is so fun - my sister and I went to Dallas and Waco last spring. Can't wait to follow your adventures!

Wendy

1/25/2019 04:47:35 am

Great packing list! We love Hawaii! We're hoping to go back to Maui this September. But for next week I'm headed on a mother/daughter cruise to Belize and Costa Maya! I'm an over packer also... I like the jumbo towel clips from the dollar tree, great for any last minute $1 needs! A small container of detergent pods and snacks too. Because Hawaii is so expensive. Safe travels

Jessica

1/25/2019 02:14:28 pm

Wow that cruise sounds amazing!! We've gone on a few cruises and are probably due for another one sometime soon. I totally agree - the Dollar Tree has some great finds!

Amy link

3/21/2021 11:51:16 pm

This is a great posst

Robinson link

4/2/2023 01:57:14 am

Hey there! I stumbled upon your blog post about what to pack for a 10-day trip to Hawaii and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. Your list of essentials is spot on and I appreciate how detailed you were with each item. As someone who loves to travel and often finds themselves overpacking, your post was a great reminder to keep it simple and only bring what's necessary.

One thing I found particularly helpful was your emphasis on packing clothing that can be easily layered. I think this is a key tip that many people overlook when packing for a trip to Hawaii. While it's true that Hawaii is known for its warm weather, it's important to remember that temperatures can vary depending on the time of day and the location on the island. Being able to layer clothing not only helps with adapting to temperature changes but also allows for versatility in outfit choices.

Overall, I think your post will be incredibly helpful for anyone planning a trip to Hawaii. The checklist you provided at the end of the post is a great resource and I appreciate how you included items that are often forgotten, such as a reusable water bottle and a portable charger. Thanks for sharing your expertise and helping to make travel planning a little bit easier!

Mele Luau link

5/7/2023 11:58:22 pm

Thank you for sharing your blog post about what to pack for a 10-day trip to Hawaii. Your tips and suggestions are very helpful for anyone planning a similar trip to this beautiful destination.

I appreciated your emphasis on packing light and practical items that can be worn multiple times and in different settings. This is especially important for those who want to avoid overpacking and lugging around heavy bags during their vacation.

I also liked your recommendations for sunscreen, water bottles, and insect repellent, as these are essential items that can easily be forgotten. It's important to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated in Hawaii's warm climate, and insect repellent can help prevent mosquito bites and other annoying pests.

Overall, your packing list provides a great starting point for anyone planning a 10-day trip to Hawaii. I would also suggest adding a light rain jacket or poncho, as well as a small backpack or tote bag for carrying essentials while exploring the islands.

Thank you again for sharing your insights and tips. I look forward to reading more of your travel advice in the future.

Mele Luau link

5/8/2023 08:03:17 pm

Thank you for sharing your helpful tips on what to pack for a 10-day trip to Hawaii. Your comprehensive list will undoubtedly come in handy for those planning a vacation to this beautiful island paradise.

I appreciate how you provided specific recommendations for different types of clothing and gear, such as swimwear, hiking shoes, and a rain jacket. It's also great that you included practical items like a reusable water bottle and a first aid kit, as these can often be overlooked but are essential for any trip.

Additionally, your suggestions for toiletries and electronics are spot-on. Sunscreen is a must-have, and I appreciate that you mentioned reef-safe options. Bringing a portable charger is also a smart idea, as it can be challenging to find outlets while exploring the island.

Overall, your blog post is informative and well-written. It will undoubtedly be a valuable resource for those planning a trip to Hawaii. Keep up the excellent work, and thank you for sharing your insights and recommendations.

Mele Luau link

5/15/2023 06:11:39 am

Thank you for sharing your blog post on what to pack for a 10-day trip to Hawaii. Your comprehensive packing list is incredibly helpful for anyone planning a vacation to the beautiful islands. From essentials like clothing, footwear, and toiletries to specific items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a waterproof phone case, you've covered all the necessary bases.

I appreciate the emphasis on packing light and versatile clothing options, as well as the reminder to pack a reusable water bottle and eco-friendly essentials. It's great to see a focus on sustainable travel practices.

Additionally, your tips on packing for different activities such as hiking, beach days, and dining out are practical and thoughtful. Including a collapsible daypack and packing cubes as suggested accessories is a brilliant idea to maximize space and organization.

Overall, your blog post provides a fantastic resource for travelers preparing for a 10-day adventure in Hawaii. The detailed suggestions and thoughtful insights will undoubtedly enhance the packing process and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Thank you once again for sharing such valuable information. I look forward to reading more of your travel tips in the future.

Oahu Venues link

5/16/2023 02:43:11 am

Thank you for sharing your blog post on what to pack for a 10-day trip to Hawaii. Your article provides some valuable insights and helpful suggestions for travelers planning their Hawaiian adventure.

I appreciate how you emphasized the importance of packing light and focusing on essentials. Hawaii's warm climate and casual atmosphere indeed call for comfortable clothing, swimwear, and footwear suitable for outdoor activities. Your recommendations on versatile clothing items like shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses are practical and space-saving.

Additionally, your mention of important items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle highlights the significance of staying protected and hydrated while exploring the beautiful Hawaiian islands. It's great to see your emphasis on sustainability by suggesting eco-friendly products.

The inclusion of a daypack for excursions, a waterproof bag for beach outings, and a good camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes are excellent suggestions that will enhance the overall experience for travelers.

Overall, your article serves as a useful guide for travelers planning a 10-day trip to Hawaii, ensuring they have the necessary items to enjoy their adventure comfortably. Thank you for sharing these valuable packing tips.

Christine

7/28/2023 05:52:12 am

Make sure the sunscreen you take is REEF safe. Many of the mainland sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that are detrimental to the Hawaiian ecosystem. Even most of the biodegradable sunscreens on the market are harmful. Personally, I would wait to get there to buy that because the islands only sell reefsafe products. Yes it’s an added expense, but money well spent to preserve the beauty of Hawaii.

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What to Pack: 10 Days in Hawaii

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