Table of Contents

17 Top Fiji Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

what to pack for fiji
seen in: national geographic, cnn, travel + leisure, new york times
the guardian, lonely planet, usa today, forbes
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Fiji – so far away, so romantic, so epically beautiful. This startlingly beautiful archipelago in the Pacific Ocean lies halfway between North American and Australia, meaning that for most of us, it’s a long journey to get there. But, we can assure you, it’s one you’ll remember fondly forever.

Knowing what to pack for a South Pacific vacation can be overwhelming, so we start you off here with the top “must-have” items for a safe and enjoyable vacation. We’ve also included some tips on what to wear in Fiji, what not to bring and some FAQs to help you plan your Fiji travel.

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What to Pack for Fiji – 17 Essentials

  • 1. Neck Wallet

    This nifty little neck wallet is just the thing to keep your iPhone, credit cards, passports, cash and travel docs safe when making the journey from the US to the South Pacific. I can tell you from personal experience that you’ll be out of sorts and quite jetlagged by the time you reach Fiji, so having all your personal items in one place is easy on the brain. Plus, this particular neck wallet has RFID blocking, which prevents e-thieves from stealing your credit card information. There is also a lifetime replacement guarantee!

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Sunscreen

    I know, I know – seems like an obvious must-have item. And yet … it’s often overlooked! This spray sunblock is reef-friendly, particularly important when you’re swimming, snorkeling and diving in Fiji’s pristine waters. That means it is oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free. It holds up to sweat and water for hours. Made with argan oil, the sunscreen has a lightweight dry oil formula that makes our skin feel silky smooth. It comes in lotion form, too.

    Sunscreen

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Not your typical Fiji packing-list item, a good VPN is essential for any travel. Take our word for it. I recently had my credit card stolen using what I thought was a secure WiFi network. I won’t be burned again by taking a risk while using someone else’s WiFi at a cafe, airport, rental or hotel.
    We now use a VPN like NordVPN to protect ourselves on any device with 1-click. We highly recommend you check it out before your next travels in order to guarantee the safety of your sensitive data.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. Packing Cubes

    A clear travel accessory winner in our book, these fantastic packing cubes make our life so much easier when we’re on the road. You may have a big rolling suitcase, or a backpack, with you in Fiji – either way, these convenient cubes mean you can easily organize your swimwear, activewear, dressy wear, etc. Plus, this set comes with two laundry bags so your dirties won’t have to mix with your cleans.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

    Packing Cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Waterproof Dry Bag

    Fiji means watersports, whether you’re on a boat trip or headed out on a paddleboard and want your phone, underwater camera and some snacks with you. Keep everything dry in this Earth Pak waterproof dry bag. Regular backpacks and day bags are apt to get soaked (or even submerged!) when you least expect it. This one cleans up easily and is inexpensive.

    EarthPak Dry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    You’re on a hike through the lush jungle of Fiji and you stumble upon the most beautiful waterfall you’ve ever seen, cascading into a turquoise pool of water. Who wouldn’t want to jump in? If you have a quick-drying travel towel in your daypack, you can swim to your heart’s content and dry off for the hike back. These compact, lightweight, quick-drying towels are the workhorse of beach towels – and take up much less space than the big fluffy variety. They’re so convenient, you can even pack a couple of them for the day.

    HERO Travel Towel - Blue

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. LifeStraw Water Bottle

    When we’re traveling far from home and in countries less developed than the United States, it’s prudent to have a reliable source of clean water. These effortless water bottles ensure that you’re drinking filtered water wherever you go. The filter removes all the pesky bacteria and parasites that might lead to unpleasant GI or other symptoms that will undoubtedly detract from the enjoyment of your vacation. The activated carbon filter lasts up to 1,000 gallons – that’s a lot of trips!

    Lifestraw Water Bottle

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Universal Travel Adapter

    Nothing takes the magic out of a Fiji vacation than dealing with tech woes. And if you arrive in the islands only to find out that your charger won’t work with the local outlets, you won’t be a happy camper. You’re going to need some charge so you can take photos, stream a movie on your laptop or make an urgent call. This HERO Travel Supply universal travel adapter works in almost every country on the planet. Its multi-purpose power plug design transitions between each style, so it will meet all your travel charging needs.

    Universal power adapter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Affordable Underwater Camera

    What’s underwater in Fiji is just as brilliant and beautiful as what’s above water. Catch those rainbow-hued fish and kaleidoscopic coral gardens in all their glory with an affordable underwater camera. You’ll get better quality than on your smartphone and you won’t pay more for an expensive GoPro (though if that’s more your speed, go for it!). Waterproof is everything in Fiji, and this one is built for the conditions.

    Affordable Underwater Camera

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    If you’re visiting Fiji between November and April, it’s a good idea to have this windproof travel umbrella along. It holds up to a wet, windy afternoon, or even just a soft shower. Why miss out on your highly anticipated island activities just because there’s a little moisture? Come prepared (even when it’s the dry season) and you’ll be ready to go wherever, whenever.

    Windproof Travel Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Beach Bag

    Unless you’re staying at an overwater villa with the ocean, a plunge pool and countless other luxurious amenities right at your fingertips, you’re going to have to move at least a little way from your accommodations to the beach in Fiji. A mesh bag like this will ensure the sand grains don’t collect at the bottom, while offering plenty of space for your quick-drying towel, book, keys, change of clothes and more. Plus, there’s an insulated cooler at the bottom for snacks and refreshing beverages.

    Beach Toy Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Cooling Towel

    It can get humid in Fiji, particularly when you’re hiking through the lush jungle, so having one of these cooling towels will bring relief and joy to your outdoor experiences. These towels remain 20 to 30 degrees cooler than the air temperature and will retain their chill factor for up to an hour. No chemicals – just wrap it around your shoulders, head, wrist, etc. for instant release. “Recharge” it by dipping it in water, writing it out and re-using it.

    cooling towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    With its multiple storage compartments, easy magnetic closure and overall large capacity – plus the ability to hang in your Fiji accommodations bathroom – this toiletry bag is a winner. We love the clear and mesh interior pockets so that everything is visible when you hang it open. It comes in a wide range of eye-catching, or more subtle, colors and patterns, so pick the one that fits your personality!

    Hanging Toiletry Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    Water is part of the package when you’re vacationing in Fiji, whether you’re hiking through the lush jungle to a waterfall, spending the day on a snorkeling excursion or just lounging on the white-sand beach next to the gentle, crystal-clear surf. A waterproof phone case is a must when you’re carrying your phone with you to any of these places – even if it’s just sand. Plus, you get the added benefit of being able to take some great underwater photos!

    Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Floating Wrist Strap

    You know that waterproof phone case we’re urging you to pack – keep it close at hand with a floating wrist strap. This works just as well for an underwater camera. You’re going to want your phone and/or camera easily accessible while you’re out on the water and this way, if you bumble it and your device falls into the water, it will float and be easily retrievable.

    floating strap

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Portable Charger

    Hoping to read a book on your phone while you laze in a hammock on the beach? Or you just hiked to a deliriously beautiful South Pacific view? You grab for your phone and – oh, no – it’s out of power. Pack a portable charger and this will never be you! This is one you don’t leave home without. Thankfully, this one is slim and stylish, and has plenty of juice for a quick charge-up at a moment’s notice.

    Portable Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Travel Insurance for Fiji

    The best part of travel insurance, well, aside from the peace of mind? It doesn’t take up any room in your suitcase. These days, the world is, shall we say, more volatile than it used to be. Savvy travelers purchase travel insurance in the event of unforeseen circumstances while on vacation (and we’ve all seen the unforeseen in the past couple of years!). We use TravelInsurance.com to compare the best policies at the most affordable rates, so we will be covered for medical emergencies, trip interruptions, unexpected Covid quarantines, baggage delays, thefts and more.

    Travel Insurance for Fiji

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

What to Wear in Fiji

As you are no doubt aware, Fiji has a tropical climate, so as you’re packing clothing, think casual, lightweight, breathable and loose-fitting. Natural fabrics such as linen, silk, bamboo and cotton will keep you cool, plus they’re easy to launder.

Of course, be sure to pack swimwear and flip flops, and bring along swimsuit coverups and rash guards to protect you from the strong sun. You can also purchase a traditional sulu once you’re in Fiji – basically a sarong, and worn by both Fijian men and women.

Pack versatile outfits, including a light sweater for cool evenings in the dry season. You can likely wear the same outfit you have on for a village visit for a dinner out. As for active pursuits, breathable and quick-drying are key to your happiness while you’re biking, hiking or even horseback riding in Fiji.

What to Wear in Fiji
What Women Should Wear in Fiji- (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Skirt
Loose fitting pants
Shorts
Quick-Drying-Hiking-Pants
Bathing Suit
Light Sweater
Tank-top
Blouse
Activewear-top
Sundress
Sarong
Sandals
Sneakers
Low Hiking Boots
Sun Hat
Jewelry
Light-Rain-Jacket
Water-Shoes

Aim for a suitcase full of lightweight, breathable fabrics in anticipation of Fiji’s warm to hot weather. Think beach attire: shorts, t-shirts, swimsuit coverups, maxi dresses and sundresses. If you’re going to be more active – hiking or biking – pack sweat-wicking athletic attire.

Due to its tropical climate, the Fijian dress code is mainly casual and comfortable. You might choose to bring one or two nicer dresses or outfits in case you’re dining out at a luxury resort. Don’t forget layers – even just a light sweater or pashmina will do if there is a slight chill in the air.

What Men Should Wear in Fiji- (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Shorts
Light Shirts
Bathing Suit
T-Shirts
Light-Rain-Jacket
Light-Sweater
Sandals
Low Hiking Boots
Slacks
Quick-Drying Hiking Pants
Sun Hat
Water Shoes
Joggers
Tank top

Assume you’ll be warm for the most part during your trip to Fiji. Beach attire will be your mainstay, so seek out light, breathable items. Stock up on shorts, t-shirts, a couple nicer shirts for going out to dinner, quick-dry activewear. The evening in the dry season can get the slightest bit chilly, so bring along a lightweight sweater.

Packing for the Seasons

Wet Season – November, December, January, February, March, April

Temperatures in Fiji average around 26°C-27°C (79°F-81°F) in the wet season (November-April). The temperatures and humidity level are the highest during this season, so while you can certainly enjoy a holiday, you’ll want to pack accordingly. During the hotter, more humid summer – AKA wet season – wear lightweight, loose-fitting, natural fabrics, such as linen, silk or cotton.

Pack shorts and shirts, with one long-sleeve and long-pant option (if lightweight, these also offer good sun protection). You can always pick up a sulu, or sarong, while you’re there, which can be quite versatile. Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket and a travel umbrella for the wet season.

WET Season

Dry Season – May, June, July, August, September, October

Temperatures in Fiji average around 23°C-25°C (73°F-77°F) in the dry season (May-October). During the winter, AKA dry season, pack lightweight, loose-fitting shorts and shirts in natural fabrics, with long-sleeve and long-pant options and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Again, a sulu is a good item to pick up locally, to be used for sun protection and as an extra layer in the evening.

It’s less humid at this time of year, so there’s less of a need for a raincoat or travel umbrella, but if you’re type to always come prepared, it’s a good idea to throw both into your suitcase.

DRY Season
Dressing Appropriately for the Activity– (Click to expand)
Nightlife: Smart sundress or smart-casual resort attire, nice shoes

Keep in mind that the dress code in Fiji is conservative. Keep the swimwear, short shorts and sleeveless tops to the resort and beach. In town, and at night, wear skirts or dresses that fall below the knees when seated. Men can wear a sulu, long trousers or dress shorts. Footwear can include sandals or thongs. Do not go barefoot or wear a sleeveless top, ripped apparel, swimwear or sports attire or a hat.

Water Sports: Quick-drying clothes, lightweight fabrics, water shoes

You’ll likely be in the water a lot on your Fiji vacation, so be sure to pack swimwear (at least one swimsuit that is functional, as opposed to just cute), a rash guard, sunhat for the beach, water shoes and a beach coverup.

Hiking: Quick-drying hiking pants and top, hiking shoes or boots

You’ll be most comfortable on your hikes in Fiji if you’re wearing leggings or athletic-style shorts, a long-sleeved lightweight shirt (to protect from the sun), a sunhat and sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Many of the trails can be muddy, so you may want a dedicated pair of hiking footwear in addition to other sneakers you might pack. Stick to quick-drying, non-cotton clothing that will wick sweat and keep you cool in the equatorial heat.

What NOT to Bring to Fiji

  • 1.DON’T Bring Books

    There’s really no need to bring anything more than one book, and maybe an airport magazine or two. They add a lot of weight to your suitcase and you’ll likely be puddle jumping by small seaplane to get to your final resort destination.

  • 2.DON’T Take Unnecessary Valuables

    Sure, there may be a safe in your hotel room, but this isn’t the time for fancy jewelry or overly expensive electronics. If you’re staying in more remote or rural accommodations, there likely won’t be a place to lock up valuables.

  • 3.DON’T Pack Too Many Clothes

    Again, pack as light as possible, not only because smaller aircraft will have strict luggage weight limits, but also because you simply may not need many outfit changes.

  • 4.DON’T Bring Gear You Won’t Use

    Think through what your main activities will be in Fiji. Are you snorkeling and lounging on the beach? Are you hiking in the jungle? Are you spending hours at the resort spa? Anything that you have to think twice about using while you’re there – leave it out.

  • 5.DON’T Bring a Bath Towel

    If you’re bringing along a towel at all – as in, you’re staying in accommodations that may not provide their own – bring a quick-dry, lightweight, travel option. A big fluffy bath towel takes up too much space in your luggage.

  • 6.DON’T Take Lots of Cash

    See above about valuables. Unless you plan to wear a travel wallet against your body at all times, leave the cash rolls at home. Bring a small amount for village visits and rely on credit cards in the larger cities.

What NOT to Wear in Fiji – (Click to expand)
Formal attire: No need for gala wear, even if you’re staying at an upscale resort. For women, one or two dresses should be sufficient: one fancier for restaurants and one more casual for sightseeing, etc. For men, this might mean some long linen pants and a polo or short-sleeve button-down shirt. If you like, throw in a pair of dressier, yet comfortable sandals to complement your dress.

Uncomfortable shoes: If you’re not barefoot on the beach, you’ll likely be hiking in the jungle, riding a bike or have your feet in flippers under the ocean’s surface. A pair each of flip flops, sturdy sneakers and water shoes will be sufficient.

Hats outside of the resort (or in a village): Definitely pack your sunhat for within the resort, but you won’t be wearing one in a village, or really anywhere outside the resort. Only the chief of a Fijian village wears a hat and it’s considered an insult for anyone else to.

FAQs about Traveling to Fiji

  • 1. How can I get around Fiji?

    How can I get around Fiji?

    With 333 remote islands to navigate, getting around Fiji may seem overwhelming, but there are numerous modes of transportation to make island hopping a breeze. Paved highways connect villages and towns on the two big islands. Buses are available, as well as private and hotel transfers. Four-seater yellow taxis line up at the Nadi Airport arrivals terminal and are available for short trips to Nadi, Denarau and Lautoka. You can rent a car if you wish and self drive on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Domestic air flights connect some of the islands, including chartered flights. By sea, you can take resort and local ferries, as well as water taxis to the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands.

    Highs in Fiji are typically 87F to 79F throughout the year. A cooling trade winds blows in the evening. Wet season is from November to April and means heavy, yet brief rain showers.

  • 2. When is the best time of year to visit Fiji?

    For the most beach-like weather, aim for late March to early December.

  • 3. What are the best things to do around Fiji?

    What are the best things to do around Fiji?

    Visit the Coral Coast for its pristine beaches and Fijian cultural activities, including visiting a pottery village and Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park. Island hop the Yasawa Islands, with their lush landscapes and sparkling blue lagoons. Go hiking, meet manta rays or just enjoy the beautiful beaches.

    Do more island hopping on the Mamanuca Islands, which have served as the setting for many popular films and TV shows. Watersports abound, from snorkeling to diving to surfing. Visit Taveuni, Fiji’s third-largest island and known for its snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to its world-famous Rainbow Reef. Hike the Lavena Coastal Walk and the Vidawa Rainforest Trail.

    Attend a firewalking ceremony, which originated on Beqa Island. Learn Fijian history at the Fiji Museum, where artifacts on display span 3,700 years.

  • 4. What is the weather like in Fiji?

    Expect a tropical climate in Fiji year round, perfect for beach vacations. The most pleasant months are from late March through early December.

  • 5. What national parks are in Fiji?

    What national parks are in Fiji?

    Bouma National Heritage Park, Taveuni: Home to the Vidawa Rainforest Trail, colorful endemic birds, tiered Tavoro Falls, Des Voeux Peak and Lake Tagimoucia.

    Waitabu Marine Park, Taveunik: Home to underwater wonderland of humphead wrasse, turtles, rays and coral gardens. Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, Viti Levu: Known for their undulating horizon that extends as far as the eye can see. Lizards and geckos scatter about as you walk the dunes, some rising to a height of nearly 200 feet.

  • 6. What are the best beaches in Fiji?

    • Castaway Island, in the Mananuca Chain
    • Horseshoe Bay
    • Honeymoon Beach
    • Liku Beach
    • Natadola Beach
    • Yasawa Island Beaches

  • 7. What kinds of wildlife does Fiji have?

    What kinds of wildlife does Fiji have?

    Both on land and underwater, wildlife runs, crawls, swims and flies throughout Fiji. Among the animals and fish you can expect to see are sea turtles, sharks, dolphins, manta rays, numerous bird species, the collared lory (Fiji’s national bird), Fijian Monkey-Faced Flying Fox, mongoose and more.