When my family and I were invited to a destination wedding in Kona this summer, we jumped at the opportunity to explore a new island in the Hawaiian archipelago. Being in my mid-twenties, this was only my second wedding—I was actually looking forward to both the long trek to the middle of the Pacific Ocean and the packing challenge of squeezing everything into one carry-on. (I have a fear of losing my luggage; and besides, with all the connecting flights I was anticipating, there was no way I’d be risking checking a bag.) The first order of business? Finding a dress in line with the “Aloha Formal” dress code.
Next, I picked a few easy basics I could throw on for the days we’d be spending exploring the island and its beaches. My selects veered almost sporty, leaning on breathable cotton basics like shorts, tanks and tees that could be worn interchangeably. I didn’t really know what the evenings would entail—or where they would take me—so I packed some simple eveningwear options that could be dressed up with the right accessories, or down with my trusty pair of Havaianas.
What to Pack for Hawaii, According to Vogue:
The Breathable Slip
J.Crew Gwyneth slip dress
Read moreThe Versatile Flip Flops
Havaianas Brazil logo sandals
Read moreThe Fun Bikini
Tropic of C Equator bikini
Read moreThe Beach Bag
Hat Attack Lissa day bag
Read moreThe Airplane Hoodie
Charlie Beads Chuck hoodie
Read moreThe Mineral SPF
Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Body Spray
Read moreThe Sporty Shorts
Amelia Designs Oscar shorts
Read more
Ultimately, I didn’t end up wearing much of the fancier looks I planned. (Lesson one in packing for Hawaii: Err on the casual side, even when planning for dinners out.) Instead, opt for lots of swimwear and versatile cover-ups, since that will account for the bulk of what you’ll be wearing in the tropical climate. And, of course: Don’t forget the sun protection.
The Long-Haul Plane Outfit
I wish I were one of those people who made an effort to look presentable at the airport but unfortunately, maximizing comfort and sleep on long plane rides are my priorities. The flight to Hawaii from New York is give or take around 10 hours; my journey was pretty seamless thanks to my tried and true travel uniform: yoga pants, a sweater for the chilly cabin, and a blackout silk eye mask. That last item has been a real game-changer for falling—and staying—asleep on flights.
