Maui Packing List: 35 Must-Haves For Your Hawaii Trip

Maui packing list

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So you looked at Oahu, the Big Island, Maui and Kauai – and settled on Maui. Great choice!

With its golden beaches, sunny skies and honeymoon-worthy hotels, Maui is a tropical favorite. It’s also an easy hop for us West Coasters (we’ve been more times than we can remember.)

You’ve even sorted out where you’ll stay.

But have you made your Maui packing list yet?

If you leave it to the last minute, you might regret it. Forget a snorkeling skin, and you could end up sunburned or wasting precious beach time shopping for one.

If you’re wondering what to pack for Maui, this ultimate list will save you from any oops moments.

We’re on a Molokini snorkeling tour in Maui (we didn’t forget our snorkeling skins!)

Free printable Hawaii packing list

Don’t leave anything behind! Download and print your free Maui packing checklist, so you can check items off as you pack them. (Just click “Subscribe and get it now” for your free PDF.)

Maui packing tips

When planning your Hawaiian vacation, it helps to think ahead.

The weather, time of year, how long you’re staying and what you’ll be doing all play a part in what you should bring.

Consider the weather

Hawaii’s weather doesn’t swing wildly through the year – but it’s still smart to pack for different conditions.

On our first trip to Hawaii (in December), we were surprised to discover that it’s not always hot and sunny!

  • Winter (November to March): It’s the rainy season in Maui – we had a few soggy days on that first December trip! Bring a light rain jacket and maybe waterproof footwear, just in case the skies open up.
  • November to January: These are the coolest months. Mind you, days are still mostly warm to hot (65 to 80F), but nights can sometimes get a little chilly. Pack a thin sweater or light jacket.
  • Summer (May to October): It gets hot! Think 85 to 89F on average. Pack lots of light breathable clothing.

No matter when you go, though, you’ll need high-SPF sunscreen, a sunhat, sunglasses and other sun protection gear – the sun is strong!

Looks like this happy couple can’t wait to go to Maui!

Packing for different activities

What adventures are you planning?

Tip: Pre-book outdoor activities and restaurant reservations before your trip. Maui is super popular – and you don’t want to miss out!

The ultimate Maui packing list

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Don’t forget: For the plane, be sure to set aside carry-on essentials (like medications, ear plugs, etc.) and pack those in your carry-on luggage.

What to wear in Maui

From T-shirts and shorts to a light rain jacket, the following are must-have Hawaii vacation clothes:

Shoes for Maui

Water shoes? Sandals? Check out the footwear you need here:

Beach stuff

Here are the must-haves to pack for the beach:

Toiletries to pack for Hawaii

Don’t forget these toiletries. They’re Hawaii vacation essentials!

What to take to Maui for water activities

When you go to the beach on Maui, you’ll be grateful you packed the following:

Other things to pack for Maui

We’re almost finished! There are just a few more items to consider…

Has this packing list for Hawaii helped you?

Hopefully, you now feel more ready for your Maui vacation!

Wishing you plenty of sunshine, sandy toes and unforgettable island memories….

Mahalo for reading, and happy travels!


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What to pack for Hawaii

Our top travel tips and resources

Hotels: Booking.com is perfect for scoring a “wow” hotel – or at least a decent one – at lower rates than the hotel’s own website. We especially like Booking’s flexible cancellation policy!

Vacation homes, condos and rentals: We prefer and use Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner).

Cruises: CruiseDirect offers amazing deals on cruises (including Holland America, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn and other lines we’ve reviewed).

Flights: To book the cheapest flights, search on Google Flights or Expedia. (Just be aware Expedia tickets may be non-refundable.)

Airport lounge access: We love (and have) Priority Pass for comfy lounge seats, free snacks and drinks, complimentary WiFi and sometimes even showers and spa services!

Tours: For the best local food, walking and other guided tours, plus skip-the-line tickets to attractions, check out Viator (a TripAdvisor company) and GetYourGuide.

Car rental: Renting a car is often a great way to explore off the beaten path. Discover Cars searches car rental companies so you get the lowest rates.

eSIMS: Stay connected affordably with Airalo eSIMS covering 200+ countries and trusted by 10 million+ users, including us! (No more huge roaming bills!)

Travel insurance: SafetyWing is designed for frequent travelers, long-term adventurers and digital nomads. It covers medical expenses, lost checked luggage, trip interruption and more. We also have and recommend Medjet for global air medical transportation.

Travel gear: See our travel shop to find the best luggage, accessories and other travel gear. (We suggest these comfy travel sandals for city walking, the beach and kicking about.)

Need more help planning your trip? Check out our travel tips and resources guide for airline booking tips, ways to save money, how to find great hotels and other crazy useful trip planning info.

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About the authors

Janice and George Mucalov are award-winning travel journalists who’ve explored all seven continents. They share destination guidesluxury hotel reviewscultural adventurescruise insightstravel tips and more on their luxury travel blog, Sand In My Suitcase. See About.

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