Wednesday, July 1, 2015

How to Pack for an Extended Vacation to Hawaii



Packing for a trip longer than 7-days to Hawaii can be an easy task with some organization and prep time.  The items you bring depend to some extent on your personal preferences and planned activities, but certain things such as sun-protection gear, are vital for everyone.  Make a list of your Hawaiian  essentials so you can focus on the sun, surf and Polynesian culture, and not on what you left behind.

Step 1
Pack the things that will take up the most room in your suitcase first, such as your shoes.  Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing, plus flip-flops or other flat, open-toed footwear for the beach.  If you plan to hike through one of Hawaii's tropical jungles or mountains, bring hiking or running shoes.

Step 2
Pack light, comfortable clothing such as shorts, sundresses, and sleeveless shirts that allow your body to breathe in the tropical heat.  Bring at least one sweatshirt or light jacket to keep warm during breezy nights, occasional rainfall and trips to high altitudes, such as the Big Island's Mauna Loa or Mauna Kea.  One thing you can leave behind is formal attire, since Hawaii is known for its Aloha-wear, the casual clothing that mirrors the relaxed pace of island life.  Hawaii stays mostly sunny throughout the year, with temperature shifting no more than 10 to 15 degrees F.

Step 3
Bring your beachwear, since you'll likely be spending a decent amount of time on one of Hawaii's many beautiful beaches.  Bring a couple of swimsuits, (one to wear when the other has been wet and is drying), water shoes and cover-ups such as board shorts, T-shirts or light sundresses.  You might want to bring a beach towel, since they're not always provided by hotels.  Consider buying a water safe, which you can wear while frolicking around in the ocean and not have to leave your valuables exposed on a beach towel.  You can find these at most sporting goods retailers.  If you have room to spare, and are on a tight budget, you can pack snorkeling gear, but these can usually be rented cheaply or borrowing for free from your hotel.

Step 4
Pack your camera, prescription or over-the-counter medications, a photo ID such as a license, along with a photo-copy for backup, and any debit or credit cards.  Keep these items in your carry-on bags to prevent problems in case of lost or stolen luggage.

Step 5
Bring a sun-protection kit that includes sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher, sunglasses and hats.  The Hawaiian islands are close to the equator, where the sun's rays are the strongest.

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