Don’t Leave for Hawaii Without These 15 Must-Have Items

Forgetting #7 Could Ruin Your Trip!

Planning a Hawaiian getaway? Don’t just pack, pack smart. From the waterfalls of Hilo to the sunsets of Waikiki, Hawaii is pure paradise. But even paradise has its curveballs: coral cuts, surprise showers, and that dreadful feeling of realizing you forgot something essential. Whether you’re hiking the Na Pali Coast, snorkeling in Molokini Crater, or lounging at Lanikai Beach, here are 15 game-changing items you do not want to leave behind.

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1. Non-Toxic SPF 50 Reef-Friendly Sunscreen

Why it’s great: Hawaii bans harmful sunscreens. This one keeps you legal and protected.
This reef-safe sunscreen is a must-have for your beach bag. Not only does it meet Hawaii’s legal requirements by avoiding banned chemicals like oxybenzone, it also offers strong, water-resistant protection for hours of ocean fun. It’s gentle on sensitive skin, and the light, non-greasy formula won’t leave you feeling sticky in the tropical sun.
Price: $19.95 for a 6 oz bottle
Shipping: ✅ Free Prime shipping available
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2. JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch (Universal)

Why it’s great: Capture those snorkeling shots without killing your phone.
Whether you’re kayaking along Kailua Bay or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, this pouch keeps your phone dry and functional. The clear cover allows for full touchscreen use, including photos and videos underwater. It fits most phone sizes and includes a lanyard so you can wear it securely around your neck or wrist.
Price: ~$6–$10
Shipping: ✅ Often Prime-eligible
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3. Anker 20,000 mAh Power Bank USB-C Fast Charger

Why it’s great: Great for day hikes and long beach outings. Keeps devices charged.
Long day exploring the Road to Hana or lounging in Hanalei Bay? This power bank can charge your phone multiple times over, with fast USB-C output. It’s a lifesaver for photographers, social media lovers, or just anyone using GPS and music all day.
Price: ~$39.98
Shipping: ✅ Prime shipping
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4. Rainleaf Microfiber Travel Towel (Quick-Dry)

Why it’s great: Lightweight, fast-drying, perfect after a waterfall dip or beach swim.
Microfiber towels are a traveler’s dream, super absorbent yet compact enough to fit in a daypack. Great after a swim at Waimea Bay or a muddy trek in Pololū Valley. It dries quickly in humid weather and comes in a variety of colors and sizes.
Price: $20.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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5. Dejaroo Mesh Sand-Free Beach Bag

Why it’s great: Mesh bottom = no more bringing the beach home with you.
This roomy tote is great for holding towels, sunscreen, snacks, and toys for a full beach day. The sand-proof mesh base means you can shake it out quickly before hopping back in the car. With multiple pockets and vibrant colors, it’s both stylish and functional.
Price: $15.95
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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6. Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Wristbands

Why it’s great: Save yourself from motion sickness on boat tours or Road to Hana twists.
Perfect for whale-watching cruises or helicopter rides, these drug-free bands work through acupressure to help reduce nausea. They’re reusable, lightweight, and small enough to keep in your carry-on. A small investment to avoid a miserable few hours.
Price: $7.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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7. Compact First Aid Kit (100-pieces)

Why it’s great: Coral scrapes, blisters, sunburns, this kit is your tropical safety net.
If you plan to hike, swim, or surf, scrapes and burns happen. This kit fits in your backpack and has bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, and more. Better to have it and not need it than to hunt for first aid at a convenience store.
Price: $44.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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8. Zhuanglin Quick-Dry Aqua Water Shoes

Why it’s great: Protect your feet from lava rock and slippery streambeds.
Many of Hawaii’s best spots require getting wet, think tide pools, river crossings, and rocky beaches. These breathable, quick-drying shoes keep your feet protected and comfortable. Great grip makes them perfect for exploring wet and wild terrain.
Price: $23.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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9. Nomader Collapsible BPA-Free Water Bottle

Why it’s great: Stay hydrated without wasting space in your bag.
This roll-up bottle is great for TSA, hiking, and day trips. It’s leakproof and made of durable silicone that holds its shape when filled. Easy to clip to your backpack or stuff into a small space once empty.
Price: $17.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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10. Rain Jacket

Why it’s great: Hawaiian weather shifts fast. You’ll be grateful on a rainy hike in Volcanoes National Park.
This lightweight, packable jacket is perfect for keeping dry without overheating. Ideal for unexpected showers on a jungle hike or exploring misty cliffs in Waimea Canyon. Its breathable fabric and adjustable hood make it practical and stylish.
Price: $74.98
Shipping: ✅ Often Prime-eligible
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11. Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles (TSA-Compliant)

Why it’s great: Leakproof and light, great for inter-island carry-ons.
These bottles are built for minimalist travelers. They’re easy to fill, don’t leak, and take up virtually no space. Great for tossing in a day bag with sunscreen, shampoo, or bug spray.
Price: $41.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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12. Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (Coconut)

Why it’s great: Lips burn too! And coconut = island vibes.
This balm smells like vacation and protects against UV rays, wind, and salt. Keep one in every pocket, you’ll use it constantly. It’s reef-safe, cruelty-free, and glides on smoothly.
Price: $9.99
Shipping: ✅ Often Prime-eligible
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13. Etekcity Digital Luggage Scale

Why it’s great: Prevent those oh-no moments at the airport.
We all overpack on the way back from Hawaii, macadamia nuts, souvenirs, and Kona coffee add up. This compact scale avoids surprise fees at check-in. Easy to use and surprisingly accurate.
Price: $11.98
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
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14. Repel UV Travel Umbrella with Teflon Coating

Why it’s great: Shade from intense sun and surprise showers in places like Hilo or Princeville.
This compact umbrella packs down small but performs like a full-size model. It holds up in wind and dries fast thanks to the Teflon coating. Great for sun and rain protection on day trips or luaus.
Price: $19.99
Shipping: ✅ Prime-eligible
Buy on Amazon

Hawaii is unforgettable, as long as you’re prepared. Pack these 14 essentials and you’ll be ready for anything from epic hikes to lazy beach days. Whether you’re heading to the Big Island’s black sand beaches or Kauai’s Kalalau Trail, these items will keep you comfortable, safe, and selfie-ready.

Happy travels, and don’t say we didn’t warn you about #7!