Kauai is the perfect vacation destination, with something for everyone! But the last thing you want is to get there and be missing something you should have brought with you. Here is the Ultimate Kauai Packing List (plus a printable download) that will ensure that you show up to the Garden Island with everything you need.
Here are all of the things you should pack to make your trip to Kauai memorable and as hassle-free as possible:
Kauai Packing List
COOLIFE Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock
Cost on Amazon: $159.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (10,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is the top-rated suitcase on Amazon and people have great things to say about this 3 piece set. These are perfect for Kauai because it gives you 2 check-in bags and one carryon bag.
MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpacks with Rain Cover for Women and Men
Cost on Amazon: $44.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (4,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: My husband and I both bought these backpacks almost a year ago and love them! They are perfect if you don't want to drag a suitcase around and worry about it breaking or one of the wheels falling off. This also makes a great hiking backpack for the hundreds of trails that cover Kauai.
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Business Anti Theft Slim Durable Laptops Backpack with USB Charging Port, Water Resistant College School Computer Bag Gifts for Men & Women Fits 15.6 Inch Laptop
Cost on Amazon: $29.99
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (49,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is a perfect bag for your second carry-on. It protects your laptop and also has a phone charging option!
BAGAIL 6 Set Packing Cubes,3 Various Sizes Travel Luggage Packing Organizers
Cost on Amazon: $19.99
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (14,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: These are great if you are someone who loves organization. These make it so that you can separate your things out into sections so that you don't have to dig through your entire suitcase when you are looking for that one thing you know you packed but just can't remember where.
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion | Vegan and Reef Friendly (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 3 oz
Cost on Amazon: $11.99
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (18,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: One thing that you cannot forget to bring to Kauai is sunblock. Hawaii has one of the highest UV ray indexes in the world. My brother-in-law got so badly sunburned last time we went to Kauai that he had sun poisoning. Also, if you are going to be snorkeling please buy reef-safe sunblock!
Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm | Vegan and Cruelty Free Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Lip Care with Aloe and Vitamin E for Moisturized Lips | Variety Pack |.15 oz
Cost on Amazon: $6.66
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (13,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Lip sunblock is just as important as regular sunblock! Don't get your lips chopped off later in life because you have skin cancer!
MaaMgic Mens Quick Dry Anchor Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining Swimwear Bathing Suits
Cost on Amazon: $21.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (18,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: You will be living in a bathing suit the whole time that you are in Kauai so make sure you bring a comfortable (and stylish) swimsuit. This one has over 20 different styles that you can choose from.
Amazon Essentials Men's Slim-Fit 7" Shorts
Cost on Amazon: $16.80
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (7,800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: For the times that you are not wearing a swimsuit, these shorts will do the job.
VATPAVE Men's Floral Hawaiian Shirts Short Sleeve Button-Down Beach Shirts
Cost on Amazon: $22.99
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (6,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is the perfect beach shirt. It is lightweight and comfortable to make sure that you are beach-ready.
Flexfit Wooly Combed Twill Cap
Cost on Amazon: $10.49
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (20,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This lightweight, breathable hat will keep you protected from the sun and keep you nice and cool.
Polarized Sunglasses for Men Driving Sun glasses Shades 80's Retro Style Brand Design Square
Cost on Amazon: $12.89
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (2,100+ reviews)
Why You Need It: The sun in Kauai can sunburn your eyeballs. Please wear sunglasses.
Teva Men's Open Toe Sandals
Cost on Amazon: $49.95
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (1,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Teva's are the original sandal! Yes, there are Chaco's and Keen but Tevas look good and work great. My husband has had his for almost 5 years and they're still working great!
Rainbow Men's Premier Single Layer Sandals
Cost on Amazon: $53.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (8,200+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Rainbow's are a great shoe for almost anything but are the best for a relaxing beach day.
Brooks Men's Ghost 13
Cost on Amazon: $123.95
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (11,800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you are going to go hiking in Kauai then don't forget a good pair of shoes. These shoes are perfect for running on the roads while still having enough traction to grip the muddy trails of Kauai.
CUPSHE Women's Padded One Piece Swimsuit
Cost on Amazon: $32.99
Average Rating: 4.1/5 (8,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Here is a one-piece swimsuit for the days when your body can't take the sun but it's Kauai so you still do a 10 hour beach day. This has 14 different styles and patterns to choose from so they will definitely have one you will like.
SUUKSESS Women Wrap Bikini Set Push Up High Waisted 2 Piece Swimsuits
Cost on Amazon: $29.95
Average Rating: 4.1/5 (15,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This bikini is perfect for those days in Kauai when you want to get a tan and just chill on the beach all day. Also, it's always hot in Hawaii so the fewer clothes the better!
Jeasona Women’s Bathing Suit Cover Up for Beach Pool Swimwear Crochet Dress
Cost on Amazon: $19.99
Average Rating: 4.4/5 (15,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is the perfect lightweight coverup that will protect you from the sun, keep you cool, and it looks amazing!
Levi's Women's 501 Original Shorts, Jive Stone
Cost on Amazon: $13.99
Average Rating: 4.4/5 (12,400+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Levi's are some of the best shorts out there and are great for traveling! They are super comfortable and I love them.
adidas Women's Saturday Relaxed Adjustable Cap
Cost on Amazon: $16.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (7.500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you don't already own this hat then you should. This hat comes in 24 different colors and is so cute! Would highly recommend.
Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll up Hat Fedora Beach Sun Hat UPF50+
Cost on Amazon: $21.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (23,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Sun hat so that you can protect your face and neck for those hot Hawaiian days. Travel tip, where this on the plane so that it doesn't get bent and wrecked.
WOWSUN Polarized Sunglasses for Women Vintage Retro Round Mirrored Lens
Cost on Amazon: $18.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (22,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: These will save your face from wrinkles! No more squinting. And it's a two-pack!
Teva Women's Universal Sandal
Cost on Amazon: $49.95
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (8,200+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Teva's are the best for hiking, you can wear them in the water, and they are so cute!
Rainbow Sandals Women's Flirty Braidy Sierra Brown Sandal Ladies
Cost on Amazon: $56.00
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (4,300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Whenever I go anywhere I bring 4 pairs of shoes, my Teva's, walking shoes, hiking shoes, and Rainbow's. These shoes are super durable and form to match your foot!
Brooks Women's Ghost 13
Cost on Amazon: $129.95
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (20,200+ reviews)
Why You Need It: These shoes are perfect for both hiking and running/exercise. They have enough traction for the muddy trails of Kauai while still being light and quick on the roads.
VIFUUR Water Sports Unisex Shoes
Cost on Amazon: $13.68
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (85,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you don't want to wear your nice Teva's in the water when you go snorkeling then these shoes will do the trick!
ELLEWIN Unisex Breathable Quick Dry Mesh Baseball Cap Running hat
Cost on Amazon: $8.99
Average Rating: 4.1/5 (4,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: My husband and I love to wear our hats in the water and this is the perfect option so that you don't ruin your cotton hats in the saltwater.
BAY LAUREL Turkish Beach Towel with Travel Bag 39 x 71 Quick Dry Sand Free Lightweight Large Oversized Beach Towel Turkish Towels Light Beach Towel Travel Towels
Cost on Amazon: $19.50
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (2,300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This towel is perfect for the beach. It comes with a travel bag, is sand-proof, and is quick-drying. What more could you ask for in a beach towel!
NXONE Beach Tent Sun Shade Shelter for 2-3 Person with UV Protection, Extended Floor, 3 Mesh Roll-Up Windows & 8.0mm Fiberglass Rods丨Carry Bag, Stakes, Guy Lines Included
Cost on Amazon: $29.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (3,800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is the perfect alternative to a beach umbrella! You cant pack a beach umbrella but you can pack this sun tent for those days when you are out roasting in the sun.
KingCamp Low Sling Beach Chair for Camping Concert Lawn, Low and High Mesh Back Two Versions
Cost on Amazon: $69.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (4,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Make sure to check beforehand if the place you are staying in Kauai has beach chairs! This one is compact enough that it should fit in a large suitcase and then you can just pack the rest of your things around it.
CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag: Insulated Leakproof 50 Can Soft Sided Portable Cooler Bag for Lunch, Grocery Shopping, Camping and Road Trips
Cost on Amazon: $42.36
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (6,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This cooler collapses down to 2 inches so that it can fit in any suitcase. Perfect for those hot beach days!
Dejaroo Beach Toys and Sand Toys Set for Kids - Collapsible Silicone Buckets and Shovels for Kids, Toddlers, Adults or Anyone Making a Sand Castle - Includes, Shovels, Buckets, Molds, Rakes and More
Cost on Amazon: $15.95
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (400+ reviews)
Why You Need It: These beach toys are perfect for a beach vacation. The buckets collapse so you don't have to buy a new set of beach toys for every beach vacation you go on with the kids.
Spikeball Game Set (3 Ball Kit) - Game for The Backyard, Beach, Park, Indoors
Cost on Amazon: $69.96
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (12,300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you have never played spikeball then here is your sign. It's a super fun game for all ages and is a perfect game for the beach.
Ultra-Star 175G Ultimate Disc
Cost on Amazon: $11.83
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (12,700+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Can you even call it a beach trip without tossing a frisbee around?
Pro Kadima Paddle Set Plus Replacement Smash Balls Bundle
Cost on Amazon: $18.59
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (1,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Here is another classic beach game. Back in the '80s, this game was flying off the shelves. Super fun game if you've never played it.
The Ultimate Skip Ball – Water Bouncing Ball (2 Pack + Free Skip Disc) Create Lasting Memories with Your Friends & Family at The Beach, Lake or Pool - Great for All Ages
Cost on Amazon: $15.99
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: These balls are endless entertainment. They skip on the water! Need I say more?!
Wave Runner Grip It Waterproof Football- Size 9.25 Inches with Sure-Grip Technology | Let's Play Football in The Water!
Cost on Amazon: $14.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (2,900+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Now I know that this is not the easiest thing to pack but if you bring a small handpump with you then you can deflate the football before the flight and then pump it up in Kauai!
SENDA Playa Beach Soccer Ball
Cost on Amazon: $29.79
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (100+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This ball is made so that you can play soccer barefoot! It is well padded and stitched so that the sand and water won't ruin it.
Aqua 4-in-1 Monterey Pool Hammock & Float, 50% Thicker, Patented Non-Stick PVC, Multi-Purpose Water Hammock (Saddle, Chair, Hammock, Drifter) Pool Chair for Adults
Cost on Amazon: $15.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (51,200+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is perfect for relaxing in the hotel pool or a nice calm beach day.
TONUNI Portable Air Pump, Ball Pump Inflator Kit with Needle, Nozzle, Extension Hose for Soccer Football Swim Inflatables
Cost on Amazon: $5.98
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (7,800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Here is the handpump for your beach balls and beach inflatables.
Mesh Beach Bag, F-color Oversize Beach Tote 9 Pockets Beach Toy Bag
Cost on Amazon: $13.59
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (6,800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is a great way to get all of your things to the beach in one trip its mesh so you don't have to worry about a pile of sand being at the bottom of your bag.
ZEEPORTE Mask Fin Snorkel Set with Adult Snorkeling Gear, Panoramic View Diving Mask, Trek Fin, Dry Top Snorkel +Travel Bags
Cost on Amazon: $44.39
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (4,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Kauai is one of the best snorkeling places in the world. Tunnels Beach is the most famous spot in Kauai and a great spot if you want to see some sea turtles!
Aegend Swim Goggles, Swimming Goggles No Leaking Adult Men Women Youth
Cost on Amazon: $13.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (46,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you are running out of space in your suitcase then goggles might be a better option. You can still spot turtles and it doesn't take up half of your suitcase.
Mach 7 Bodyboard (42 Inch) - PE Core, TC8 Deck, HDPE Slick, Single Power Rod Stringer, Crescent Tail, with Channels for Bodyboarding Surfing Waves Ocean Summer Fun Beach Man & Woman Water
Cost on Amazon: $129.00
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (50+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is a high-quality bodyboard that will last you the rest of your life. Use this as one of your free checked bags!
SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (6 Inches Thick) with Premium SUP Accessories & Carry Bag, Wide Stance, Bottom Fin for Paddling, Surf Control, Non-Slip Deck, Youth & Adult Standing Boat
Cost on Amazon: $539.64
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (13,200+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Okay, I know that this is a little extra but it rolls up and fits in a backpack! If you want your Moana moment in Kauai then this is for you.
Wavestorm 8' Surfboard, Sunburst Graphic
Cost on Amazon: $243.47
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you are ready to learn to surf in Kauai then this is the board for you! It's going to cost a bit extra to get it there but worth it!
Unisex Short Sleeve 2MM Neoprene Wetsuit Men for Surfing One Piece Triathlon Scuba Diving Spearfishing Wetsuit
Cost on Amazon: $39.53
Average Rating: 4/5 (500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: The water in Kauai never gets that cold (the lowest water temperature is around 74 degrees) but if you really want to stay toasty in the water then here is a wetsuit.
Chums Original Cotton Retainer - Unisex Eyewear Keeper for Sunglasses & Glasses - Adjustable Fit, Washable
Cost on Amazon: $9.38
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (10,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: I've lost count of how many pairs of sunglasses I've lost at the beach. These make it so you can wear your glasses in the water without worrying about a rogue wave coming and smacking them off your face.
Syncwire Waterproof Phone Pouch [2-Pack] - IPX8 Waterproof Phone Case Dry Bag with Lanyard Compatible with iPhone 13/12/11 Pro XS MAX XR X 8 7 6 Plus SE 5s Samsung S10+ and More Up to 7 Inches
Cost on Amazon: $11.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (6,500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This will keep the water and sand away from your phone. It also makes your phone waterproof so that you can get some pictures of those turtels!
GoPro HERO8 Black Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live Accessory Bundle - 1 GoPro USA Battery + Lanyard
Cost on Amazon: $289.99
Average Rating: 4.3/5 (500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: My husband and I love this GoPro. It has a Hypersmooth option so all of your videos you take look like they were taken with a gimble. It is also waterproof up to 33 feet so you don't have to worry about it getting wet!
OFF! Botanicals Insect Repellent IV, 2 fl oz
Cost on Amazon: $4.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (2.300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Kauai might be paradise but watch out for mosquitoes! Kauai doesn't have a huge mosquito problem but better safe than itchy.
Kindle Paperwhite – (previous generation - 2018 release) Waterproof with more than 2x the Storage – Ad-Supported
Cost on Amazon: $109.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (125,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Nothing like reading at the beach. Get this waterproof paperwhite Kindle for easy reading at the beach.
Kindle Unlimited
Cost on Amazon: $9.99 a month
Why You Need It: This will let you download unlimited books so that you will never run out of books again!
CraveBox Care Package (45 Count) Snacks Food Cookies Granola Bar Chips Candy
Cost on Amazon: $24.95
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (26.800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Food in airports (and Kauai) is expensive! Remember to bring your own snacks.
Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee Blonde Roast Packets — Veranda Blend, 50 Count
Cost on Amazon: $39.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (10,100+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Just as important as food is coffee. Make sure to try Hawaiian but save some money by bringing your own!
Multi Charging Cable USAMS 2Pack 4FT 4 in 1 Nylon Braided Multiple USB Fast Charging Cord Adapter Type C Micro USB Port Connectors Compatible Cell Phones Tablets and More
Cost on Amazon: $14.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (5,400+ reviews)
Why You Need It: One charging cord for all of your devices!
2-Pack Miady 10000mAh Dual USB Portable Charger, Fast Charging Power Bank with USB C Input, Backup Charger
Cost on Amazon: $19.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (46,100+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Never be without a charge again with these two portable chargers.
TOZO T6 True Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth Headphones Touch Control with Wireless Charging Case IPX8 Waterproof Stereo Earphones in-Ear Built-in Mic Headset Premium Deep Bass for Sport
Cost on Amazon: $34.99
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (155,800+ reviews)
Why You Need It: These headphones are a great budget option and have amazing reviews on Amazon. They are also waterproof!
2020 Apple MacBook Air Laptop: Apple M1 Chip, 13” Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, FaceTime HD Camera, Touch ID
Cost on Amazon: $999.00
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (9,700+ reviews)
Why You Need It: If you don't have a MacBook then you need one. I had a PC for 5 years before I switched to Mac and the difference is night and day. Bring this to watch movies on the plane, get some work done at the accommodation, or just watch some YouTube after a long day at the beach.
Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera w/XF18-55mm Lens Kit
Cost on Amazon: $1,899.00
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (500+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Kauai is one of the most beautiful places on earth and you need a good camera to capture its beauty. This camera is one of (if not the) best purchases I've ever made. It does such a good job of getting all of the colors and is mirrorless (which means that it's better than a DSLR).
Lexar High-Performance 633x 128GB microSDXC UHS-I Card with SD Adapter, Up To 100MB/s Read, for Smartphones, Tablets, and Action Cameras
Cost on Amazon: $16.49
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (11,000+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Make sure to bring one or two extra SD cards for your camera and GoPro!
The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook: Kauai Revealed
Cost on Amazon: $17.67
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (2,300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: They are really not lying when they say it is the ultimate guidebook. This book is literally everything that there is to do in Kauai.
Gildan Blank Hoodie - Hooded Sweatshirt - Unisex Style 18500 Adult Pullover
Cost on Amazon: $17.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (900+ reviews)
Why You Need It: Unisex hoodie for getting cozy on the freezing plane ride.
MLVOC Travel Pillow 100% Pure Memory Foam Neck Pillow, Comfortable & Breathable Cover, Machine Washable, Airplane Travel Kit with 3D Contoured Eye Masks, Earplugs, and Luxury Bag
Cost on Amazon: $22.99
Average Rating: 4.4/5 (7,700+ reviews)
Why You Need It: You know you want it.
Dr. Fresh Travel Kit 3-in-1 Toothpaste/Scope
Cost on Amazon: $5.49
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (900+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This will last you about a week and is super compact.
Native Deodorant - Natural Deodorant for Women and Men - Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty Free - Contains Probiotics - Aluminum Free & Paraben Free, Naturally Derived Ingredients
Cost on Amazon: $11.97
Average Rating: 4.5/5 (56,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This all-natural deodorant is the perfect amount for your Kauai vacation!
Mini First Aid Kit, 110 Pieces Small First Aid Kit - Includes Emergency Foil Blanket, CPR Respirator, Scissors for Travel, Home, Office, Vehicle, Camping, Workplace & Outdoor
Cost on Amazon: $12.88
Average Rating: 4.8/5 (2,600+ reviews)
Why You Need It: You never know when you will need to clean a wound. Rocks and coral are not very nice on the skin.
Zoppen Multi-purpose Rfid Blocking Travel Passport Wallet (Ver.4) Tri-fold Document Organizer Holder
Cost on Amazon: $13.99
Average Rating: 4.6/5 (15,300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is a wallet that makes travel easy. It holds your passports, boarding passes, and everything else you need.
Sam Wrap (R) Stretch Wrap 5" x 1000' Roll, 80 Gauge Extra Thick Durable Self-Adhering Plastic Wrap for Moving, Packing Wrap Industrial Strength, Clear Plastic Pallet Shrink (2 Roll)
Cost on Amazon: $16.99
Average Rating: 4.7/5 (3,300+ reviews)
Why You Need It: This is great if you want to check in a surfboard or bodyboard and want it to be protected. Make sure to bring one roll with you to Kauai so that you can get it home safe too.
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Dayna Brockbank is a travel and language-learning blogger who has lived around the world but has now settled in Nice, France. She speaks 3 languages at varying levels of fluency: Spanish, Italian, and French, and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Spanish Education. She and her husband focus on making travel part of life by living cheaply and traveling on a budget.