Let me be real frank for a second: All the “pack with me’s” you see on TikTok are bullshit. Who has space in a suitcase for their full aesthetic skincare routine, three outfits per day, and every accessory they own? I pride myself on never once going over the weight limit for my suitcase, and I intend to keep it that way. Here’s my ridiculously honest, non-aesthetic packing list for one week on the Big Island.
The (Real) Big Island Packing List
Clothes
5 “Fashionable” Tank Tops/Shirts – Good for “everyday” wear
2 Lounge T’s – For going to the beach/getting wet, but also doubling as bonus pajamas
1 Long Sleeve Shirt – I wore mine after I went snorkeling with the manta rays and was so glad I packed it
4 Dresses or Matching Sets – For formal dinners or fancy moments
3 Athletic Shorts – Wear for morning workouts or day hikes
3 “Fashion” Shorts – Think denim or linen. Perfect for pairing with tank tops/shirts
1 Pair of Leggings – Great for hiking
1 Pair of Sweatpants – Perfect for flight days, but also for staying warm after snorkeling with the manta rays!
3 Bathing Suits – I usually bring a “tanning” bathing suit, a “swimming” bathing suit, and a “water sports” bathing suit. The girls that get it, get it. I over-packed and brought 5 on my last trip for ~variety.~ These are small enough that you can splurge a little.
4 Pairs of Shoes – One “nice” sandal, a beach sandal, water shoes, and a pair of trail running shoes will be enough. Leave your heels at home (I never wore mine).I
10 pairs of underwear
1 sport bra, 1 regular bra – Your bathing suits can double as bras
Rain Coat – If you’re planning activities in Hilo, you’ll be thankful you have this.
Beach Cover Up
Accessories
Simple Jewelry – Rule of thumb; don’t bring any jewelry you’d cry about losing in the ocean. I typically travel with one or two necklaces and one or two pairs of earrings.
Belt – An easy accessory to jazz up any outfit, but not a must-pack
Sun Hat – We love sun protection
Packable Beach Bag – A game changer! I got this one from Amazon which was perfect for carrying to the beach or keeping in the car during our daytime activities.
Toiletries
Your “Usuals” – You know what these are, I don’t!
Reef Safe Sun Screen – Hawai’i has made a big push for “reef safe” ingredients in sunscreen recently. We decided to use Sun Bum. This has quickly become my favorite sunscreen and doesn’t have the harmful ingredients that significantly impact reef life.
Motion Sickness Medication – If you’re planning any boat activities, this is a must.
First Aid Kit – Any time I’m hiking, I’m bringing a first aid kit just in case. I use this one.
Carry On Items
Book/Kindle – Is there anything better than reading by the beach? The answer is no.
AirPods
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