Hawaii Explorer -Gear List

Back to Ultimate Hawaii Explorer main page“I’m going to Hawaii! So all I need is a pair of sandals and a swim suit, right?” ~Actually we hear that a lot, and well, you’re half right… because that’s what you may find yourself wearing about half the time. This trip will satisfy the beach bum in you, but it goes beyond that to the part of you that craves to dive deep into the unknown, and the part of you that has always dreamed of climbing through the jungle on an active volcano and picking fresh passion fruit for lunch!

A tour through the wonders of Hawaii’s backcountry requires a unique set of gear, because the rains can be drenching, the land can be arid, the sun can be unforgiving, and the nights can be colder than you imagined. If you have any experience in the outdoors you know that having a certain piece of equipment can often mean the difference between a fabulous experience, and a serious nightmare!

TRAVEL AND PERSONAL ITEMS

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  *Valid Passport, Driver License, or other personal ID- please ensure your documentation is current.
• Spending cash –  Breakfasts, dinners, transportation and accommodations are included in the price of the trip.  You will be providing your own airfare, most of your own lunches and you might like to buy some gifts, snacks, or things along the way. We recommend an average of $30 per day.
• *Medications –  Please let us know in advance if you require refrigeration, otherwise you are responsible for storing and administering your own prescribed medication.

HIKING

• *Hiking boots or sturdy shoes, medium weight, broken-in
• *Waterproof sandals, shoes
• *Backpack (2500 to 4000 cubic inches)
• Waterproof pack cover, extra straps (highly recommended)

CAMPING

• *Tent or bivy sack with rain fly and repair kit
• Sleeping Bag or light blanket (prepare for nights as cool as 50 F)
• Sleeping Pad

EATING AND DRINKING

• Water filter and iodine tablets for backup (we can usually share this with everyone)
• *Water bottles (enough to carry 1/2 gallon)
• *Eating bowl or plate
• *Eating utensils
• Insulated mug for warm drinks
• Lighter or waterproof matches
• Biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, small towel

CLOTHING

• *Sun hat and sunglasses
• *Rain jacket (Must be waterproof!)
• Rain pants
• Long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and light jacket
• *Shorts, short-sleeved shirt, and underwear (quick-dry fabrics are preferred)
• Hiking socks
• *Swimsuit
• Rash guard surf shirt or wetsuit

OTHER ESSENTIALS

• *Waterproof bags, at least 1
• Small first aid kit
• *Sunscreen, at least 40 SPF recommended
• Pocket knife if desired
• Headlamp, extra bulbs and batteries
• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Toilet paper in plastic bag
• Trowel for digging cat holes (see previous item)
• Insect Repellant
• Camera, waterproof camera or waterproof camera case recommended

The total weight of your belongings should weigh no more than 1/3 of your body weight. Try to pack as light as possible- easier said than done!

Questions about packing? send us an email, or leave a comment on the discussion section at the bottom of this page. Chances are your question will be helpful to others, too.