What to Pack for Hawaii When You Plan to Rent Gear

The last thing you want to do during your trip to Hawaii is lug a bunch of suitcases around. Renting beach gear, snorkeling equipment and surfboards is a smart way to travel light while still getting the most fun out of your vacation. Here’s a smart packing guide to show you how to pack for Hawaii when you plan to rent gear. This will ensure that you spend your trip enjoying the island instead of hassling with bulky or unnecessary items.

Start with Some Research

Before you start packing, check in with your accommodations and research nearby rental shops. Confirm what your hotel or vacation rental already includes (like towels, beach gear, umbrellas, and toiletries), to identify what you need to pack or rent. Research rental options in advance to understand which items they have in stock, including speciality items like prescription snorkel masks. It is also good to know which accessories may be included with the rental. For example, if anti-fog is included with a snorkel gear rental. Consider whether you need to place a rental order for larger items like Stand Up Paddle Boards or surf boards in advance, especially if you’re traveling during high season.

Clothing Basics to Pack for Hawaii

The rule of thumb when choosing clothes for Maui is to pack light and pack smart. Since Maui is blessed with warm, tropical weather year round, your wardrobe should focus on items that are comfortable in the heat. Shorts, quick dry tops, and lightweight sundresses are staples to add to your suitcase.

If you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach, consider packing at least two swimsuits (so one is always dry) and a long-sleeve rash guard or sun shirt. These are one of the best ways to stay protected from UV rays and they also dry fast. Sun shirts can double as beach or active wear, maximizing their use on your vacation.

Though Maui is known for its warm weather, mornings and evenings can be cooler during winter months depending on where you’re staying. It’s a good idea to pack a lightweight windbreaker or sweatshirt and a pair of pants. If you plan on visiting the summit of Haleakalā at 10,000 ft above sea level, you’ll need at least one extra layer. It actually snows up there once in a while and sunset and sunrise temperatures will surprise you.

If a dinner at one of Maui’s best restaurants or a luau is on your itinerary, add one or two ‘resort casual’ outfits. The dress code in Hawaii is island style, flip flops and an ‘Aloha shirt’ or dress is considered fancy.

For Your Feet

Footwear in the islands is pretty straightforward – wear something that you don’t mind getting sandy, wet, or both. A pair of flip flops (AKA “slippahs” in Hawaii) is essential and won’t take up much room in your suitcase but you can also easily pick up a pair when you rent your snorkel gear from any Boss Frog’s location on Maui.

A pair of comfortable tennis shoes or trainers are helpful for longer walks exploring Maui’s quaint towns or hiking trails. The lava rock at places like La Parouse Bay is especially hard on the feet and requires closed toed shoes.

Sun Protection

Keeping your skin protected from Maui’s intense rays is one of the most important things to keep in mind while packing. UV-blocking sunglasses and a ball cap or wide-brim hat are two packing essentials. As noted before, it’s also a good idea to bring at least one lightweight sun shirt. These typically pack small, but will go far towards protecting your skin. If you don’t already own a rash guard or lightweight sun shirt, these are easy to find once on Maui. All non reef safe sunscreen is banned in Hawaii to protect the ocean. It is best to purchase sunscreen once you land, which gives you the option to bring only a carry-on suitcase and not worry about keeping liquids under 3 ounces. Rental stores like Boss Frog’s carry the best reef safe sunscreen brands, tested by the owners themselves.

Beach Essentials

In addition to a hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeve beach shirt, there are a few other beach essentials you may want to pack for Hawaii:

If your accommodations don’t include beach towels, consider packing a smaller microfiber towel or sarong. These are often less bulky than traditional cotton towels.
A small drybag or waterproof phone pouch packs small and will protect your valuables on boat trips or at the beach.
Beach cover ups are also handy to throw on after the ocean.
Reusable water bottles are ideal for long airplane rides and also ensure that you stay hydrated in Maui’s heat. Refill stations can be found throughout the island, plus the water from the tap is safe to drink. By reusing your water bottle, you’ll reduce single use plastic waste and help keep the island beautiful.
A small, packable daypack or fanny pack can also be useful for the beach, hikes, or enjoying Maui’s quaint towns.
A waterproof pouch is helpful for storing wet bathing suits or other items between the beach and your accommodations.

Personal Items

There are a few personal items that you shouldn’t leave home without:

Of course you won’t be able to make it Maui without your ID, but keep in mind that most rental shops also require identification and/or credit cards for deposits.
Any prescription medications, copies of prescriptions, and basic first aid items (like bandaids and pain relievers) are important to pack.
Portable chargers or a power bank are also helpful for long beach days or excursions.
Reusable shopping bags are easy to pack and help for loading up gear for the beach or a day out. Keep in mind that most Maui stores charge a small fee for shopping bags to reduce single use plastic waste.

What Gear You Can Rent on Maui

Maui is well stocked when it comes to rental options. It is easy to find all essential beach items for rent, no matter where you are staying on the island. Here are some of the key items that you can rent once on Maui:

Beach gear essentials – umbrellas, beach chairs, floatation devices, and wetsuits
Ocean sports equipment – boogie boards, standup paddle boards, and surf boards (at certain locations)
Snorkel equipment – Don’t worry about hassling with fins and masks. Rental stores are stocked with snorkeling essentials, from basic equipment to more speciality items like prescription masks
Gopro’s or waterproof cameras – If you don’t already have a waterproof or GoPro camera, don’t worry! Boss Frog locations across Maui have available underwater cameras to rent
Flotation devices can be rented and are provided on snorkeling tours on Maui

Packing Tips to Save Space

While even the most savvy of packers can cut back on how much goes in their bag, here are a few additional tips to save space in your suitcase:

Double check what is already available at your accommodations, including larger items like beach towels and toiletries.
Wear bulky items (like sweatshirts, tennis shoes, etc.) on the airplane
Use packing cubes to organize your items by activity and compress clothing
Limit your wardrobe to a few essential items—a few pairs of shorts, tops, and lightweight dresses. Keep in mind that any items you forget, you can find once you arrive.
Leave items that you can easily rent (like snorkel gear) at home.

You won’t need much to enjoy your vacation on Maui. The island is also well stocked with reasonably priced rentals and places to purchase any items you may forget. Renting gear once you’ve arrived will make your travel lighter and more flexible. Packing a few thoughtful essentials is all you will need to enjoy the island.

Item	Pack or Rent?	Why You Need it
Rash Guard	Pack	Essential sun protection from Maui’s strong rays; easy to buy once you’re on island
Beach Towels	Check with your accommodations first	A towel is always a handy item to keep in your car while enjoying Maui. If your accommodations don’t include them, consider packing a lightweight microfiber towel.
Snorkel Gear	Rent	Snorkel gear is easy to transport once on island, and allows you to explore Maui’s underwater world
Bathing Suits	Pack	If you plan to enjoy the beach, a few bathing suits are essential for your suitcase
Underwater Cameras	Rent	If you don’t already own an underwater camera, consider renting one for the days you snorkel or explore water falls
Reusable Water bottle	Pack	Stay hydrated in Maui’s warm climate