The first part of our article covered your general clothing needs for your visit to the islands. You'll also want to plan for other items and clothing that will enhance your experience, based on activities you've planned, and the parts of the islands that you'll be visiting.
-
Hawaii is so beautiful that even the most casual of photographers will want some sort of camera and film, even if only a disposable camera. If you don't have photos to show off to your families and friends back home, you will probably regret it.
-
While much of Hawaii's climate is tropical, higher elevations can be cool, especially at night. The summit of Haleakala (Maui), Volcanoes National Park (Big Island of Hawaii) and similar places can be breezy and cool at any season. You'll find a pair of jeans, or a light jacket, sweater or sweatshirt quite comfortable in these situations.
-
If you plan horseback riding, a long bike ride down Haleakala, or a hike in the upcountry, you will probably prefer long pants or jeans.
Checking with any tour or activities guides with whom you've booked will also be helpful. They will be able to provide you with precise instructions on what you'll need to bring, and what equipment or special clothing is included with your package. For example, a star-gazing tour on the Big Island will be cold, but rest assured that parkas, mittens, and hot beverages and soup are provided by the tour group!
Pack It or Get It There
You don't have to bring everything that you'll need in Hawaii. You can decide to buy or rent some items when you arrive.
When deciding whether to pack something or not, keep in mind your vacation budget, the space available in your luggage, and the availability and price of goods in Hawaii. Because it is an island state, all goods must be shipped or flown in, making prices higher than on the mainland.
You will be visiting the 50th state of the U.S., and tourism is its major industry. For this reason, you should be able to purchase or rent just about any special item within easy driving distance of where your are staying. In the more commercialized areas, dive shops, discount stores, drug stores, camera shops, grocery stores and supermarkets abound.
Items such as beach wear, camera batteries and film, office supplies, shampoo and conditioners, sun tan lotion, and sun glasses are readily available. Specialized items such as scuba and snorkeling equipment, kayaks, surf boards, and even golf clubs are available for rental or purchase everywhere.
However, if you'll be staying in some of the more remote parts of the islands, or on a less commercialized island such as Molokai, you may find the selection more limited.
If you're a professional or amateur enthusiast with special equipment needs, you'll probably want to consider bringing most of your equipment with you.
NEXT PAGE - General Packing Tips
