Things to Pack for a Trip to Hawaii

If you are traveling to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland, you will need official identification, such as a driver's license. Visitors from abroad will need a passport, and citizens of some nations will need a visa. If you want to rent a car, you will need a driver's license and usually a major credit card. All major credit and debit cards are accepted throughout the Hawaiian Islands, and ATMs can be found everywhere. Hawaii is generally an expensive place, and you should expect to pay premium prices for food, tours and entertainment, so you'll need access to enough money to cover expenses for your visit. Cell phones connected to U.S.-based networks work in Hawaii and are a good idea.

Clothing suitable for beaches and swimming are a must on a trip to Hawaii. If you are traveling with children who will want to spend lots of time in the ocean or swimming pools, it's a good idea to have more than one bathing suit so one can dry while you wear another. Wetsuits are not absolutely necessary--the Pacific waters in Hawaii are warm. But they do protect the skin from abrasion from surf boards and give added protection from the sun, so consider bringing a light wetsuit if you have one. Bring hats and sunglasses to protect your head, face and eyes from the sun.

Hawaii has a casual atmosphere, and most visitors will not need formal clothing. If you're trying to pack light, consider clothing that can be worn on the beach, in town and during the evening. For example, a casual sundress can be worn over a bathing suit or dressed up with jewelry for dinner. A sarong is versatile as a beach cover-up, skirt and dress, depending on how you fold it. For men, long board shorts are good for swimming but also suitable as casual wear anywhere in Hawaii.

A pair of comfortable flip-flops or other sandals is essential. They can be worn on the beach and elsewhere throughout the day and night. If you are going to be walking while shopping or sightseeing, bring comfortable footwear. Golfers will need golf shoes and hikers hiking boots. If you plan on taking a boat trip, non-slip footwear is a good idea.

Aside from beach wear and casual summer clothing, additional clothing needs will depend on your intended activities. If you are going to visit one of Hawaii's volcanoes, you will need some additional layers of clothing for warmth at high altitudes. At the top of the highest peaks, like Haleakala on Maui and Mauna Loa on the Big Island, temperatures can be very cold and sometimes freezing. For a day trip, you should bring an extra cardigan or sweater, but if you will spend time hiking or camping at high altitudes, you need cold weather gear including a waterproof jacket and boots. A lighweight waterproof jacket, poncho or umbrella is a good idea because rain is likely and can be heavy at times. If you are planning playing golf, make sure you have shoes, a collared shirt and non-denim, non-ripped shorts or pants.

A camera is essential. If you forget, you can purchase a disposable one, but the best option is a digital camera with a lot of memory so you can capture your memories without concern for space or conserving film. Sunscreen is also a must; Hawaii has a hot and sunny climate year-round. You'll save money bringing it from home.

If you are going to play golf, you might want your clubs. But if your airline charges extra fees to transport them and you only plan on playing once or twice, consider renting from the course. Compare the price of each option. Balls, tees and other accessories are less expensive on the mainland than in Hawaii, so bring plenty with you.