I recently spent ten days island hopping around French Polynesia, and for the first time in my life I actually didn’t overpack! Well, I didn’t overpack too much. We had our days pretty well planned out ahead of time, which massively helped in deciding what made the final cut.
The biggest takeaway I had after actually spending time there was just how casually and comfortably everyone dressed – my biggest regret was wasting space on bringing heels, second only to bringing flippers.
So, if you’re planning a trip to this little tropical paradise in the middle of the Pacific, read on to find out exactly what to pack.
Athletic Dress
I have a wild love affair with the Abercrombie Traveler Dress, but really any sort of moisture wicking dress with built in shorts will do. I love that these can take me from a hike to a nice lunch without having to go all the way back home to change.
Light Long Sleeve Tops
I packed a gauzy crop top and two linen button downs and honestly wore them every day. The sun in Polynesia is intense, so these are great for keeping the sun off your skin during the day. At night, they can also double as a lightweight layer against pesky bugs or a cool ocean breeze.
Basic Tanks
These pack up super small so I never feel bad about packing a couple of options!
One Piece
I love the versatility of sporty one pieces. For almost everything , one pieces are a safer bet.
Bikini
I rarely spend my days sunworshipping any more, but I always throw in at least two pairs of bikinis for any tropical destination just in case!
Denim Shorts
I packed a single pair my favourite pair of dad shorts and they lasted me all week.
Cute Skirt
I like to pack a cute pull on mini skirt to throw on over my swim suit in a pinch. Sarongs, especially sourced at the local markets, are an elegant alternative as well.
Athletic Set
Wherever my traveler dress doesn’t take me, my beloved beyond yoga sets will. Depending on how active your trip is, you’ll likely need to pack one or two of these.
Evening Dress
People in Polynesia dress casually almost all the time, but if you’re planning on attending any luaus or fancy resort dinners then you’ll want to step it up a bit.
Athletic Sandals
I bought a pair of Teva Ampsoles for this trip and it was seriously lifechanging! Beyond looking cute, the extra height was useful for keeping me elevated from mud during our hikes. If the platform isn’t for you, just make sure you pick up a pair that has a waterproof sole and some ankle support.
Flip Flops
People wear flip flops here all day and night. Leave the birks at home and pack a pair that are waterproof for the sudden showers and shoreline strolls.
Nice Sandals
You’ll feel overdressed at even the nicest resort in a pair of heels. Instead opt for a nice pair of flat sandals, and as a bonus they’ll take up far less space in your carry on.
Also be sure to bring:
- Reef socks – this is so essential! They don’t need to be fancy, any old pair off Amazon will do.
- Snorkeling mask – it’s so much more convenient to just bring your own. There are lots of great options on amazon, just make sure they’re both tempered glass and wide view.
- Reef safe sunscreen. Triple check this, and then check it again!
- Fanny pack to zip around the islands with ease.
- Little evening bag for the nights you dress up – or just purchase a handmade one at the markets here!
And leave at home:
- Snorkeling fins, the reef socks are just way more convenient.
- Anything higher than a kitten heel. Seriously. Pinky Promise.
