What to Pack for a Trip to Hawaii
Easy separates, swimwear, and travel-sized sunscreen are nonnegotiable.
There are some trips I have no issue packing for. Everything seems to come together easily—I lay out the various pieces, I put together outfits, and I have no trouble zipping my suitcase. A recent trip to the Hawaiian island of Lanai, where I stayed at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, was one of those trips.
For that, I mostly credit the fact that I went with a black-and-white color theme. I packed a couple of bathing suits, tank tops, skirts, linen pants, and the oversized button-down I’ve been wearing on repeat over the last few months (I’ve worn it so often, I also bought it in blue stripe). This combination had just the right amount of function and versatility, and I never once experienced any packing regret—although I probably should have brought more casual sandals for a hike around Hulopoe Beach.
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Tops and bottoms
I’ve worn this black Playa Lucila elastic waistband skirt on nearly every trip this summer. I also have it in red gingham and black gingham. It really is the simplest way to elevate a basic tank top (like this white one or this black one). I’ll wear both with Cakes instead of a regular bra. I think my favorite thing about this outfit strategy is that I can dress up the look for dinner with jewelry—these gold Amazon waterdrops are my current favorite—and it never looks like I’m trying too hard, which is the exact aesthetic I like to go for when I’m in a tropical destination.
Besides the aforementioned button-down, I also packed these new Rag & Bone white drawstring jeans. Yes, they’re a bit pricey (currently on sale, though!), but they’re similar to these La Ligne drawstring jeans I’ve talked about before. They have the look of denim pants while still being comfortable enough for a travel day. These white linen shorts were a well-worn addition as well.
Bathing suits and cover-ups
I’ve worn my Andie one-pieces so much, it’s probably time to invest in new ones. They’re relatively supportive, and I’ll wear them under a sarong or one of the Playa Lucila skirts I mentioned above. Summersalt has similar bathing suit styles, too.
Sandals, sunscreen, and other accessories
My friend introduced me to this sunscreen from the brand Vacation—and I’ve since become a full convert. Her selling point? It’s 3.12 ounces, so you can bring it with you on the plane. The gel consistency ensures it goes on smoothly, and the product doesn’t leave a whitecast.
Other items I’d recommend packing for Hawaii: sunglasses, sandals you don’t mind getting a little wet or dusty, chapstick (Lanai was surprisingly dry), and a beach tote. I’ve been hauling my L.L. Bean Boat and Tote everywhere this summer.