27 April, 2025
Having visited Fiji three times, including one extended stay of a full month, I’ve learned exactly what you need to pack for this tropical paradise. Beyond the obvious swimwear and sunglasses, I’ve discovered some essential items that many travellers overlook and you do not want to forget. (I have occasionally linked a few of my personal favourite products where relevant throughout this list). This packing list will ensure you’re prepared for your Fijian adventure.
Clothing
(amount of each item needed depends on length of stay)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- It is always hot and humid – even if it only says 28 degrees, it may feel like 35
- Swimwear – at least 2-3 sets
- You may swim multiple times a day and not wish to put your wet bikinis underneath your next outfit – so always good to have another dry option
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- When it rains it pours, trust me. You will get wet at least once, likely more though, but don’t worry you will dry off in the sun pretty quickly.
- Comfortable walking sandals
- I usually take a few – last time I took thongs/flipflops, birks & crocs.
- Archies are my personal favourite – waterproof, supportive & don’t fall off.
- I usually take a few – last time I took thongs/flipflops, birks & crocs.
- One or two “nice” outfits for resort dinners
- Depending on where you are staying, regular beach wear will be fine for dinners, but you may want to dress up if you go to a nice resort
- Rash guard or spring suit for sun protection
- Not only is this important for preventing skin cancer – but trust me sunburn ruins your insta pics
- Hat with good sun coverage
- Same note as above + it is a cute accessory
Beach & Water Essentials
- Underwater phone case
- This game-changer lets you capture amazing underwater photos with your phone.
- I use this case-mate case which is perfect as it has a strap that I put around myself while I swim + it floats if for some reason it detaches (which mine never has)
- Underwater camera (if you have one)
- For deeper dives or better quality underwater photography.
- I personally use the Kodak Pixpro WPZ2, but there are plenty of other good options (although more expensive) like a Go-pro or insta360 (my next purchase) and many more.
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Protect the beautiful coral reefs while protecting your skin.
- I always go for an SPF 50+ option
- Quick-dry towel
- Takes up less space and dries quickly between swims
- Snorkel gear
- If you prefer your own – Or you can usually hire/borrow for free from most accommodations.
Health & Comfort
- Reusable water bottle
- A lot of resorts will have desalinated safe drinking water, and if there is using a reusable bottle is your best option
- but there are also plenty of parts of fiji where there is not safe drinking water. I know it is not environmentally friendly but you may have to rely on buying bottled water depending on where you are or how sensitive your stomach is.
- I’m sure you already have one at home, but if you’re in the market for a new one I recommend Frank Green or Owala but they can be a bit expensive.
- Hydralyte or other electrolyte tablets
- Essential for staying hydrated in the tropical heat, especially if you are somewhere where you need to buy water, you may not be having enough.
- Gastro Stop/anti-diarrheal medication
- Just in case you have some bad water or food, or simply the change in cuisine affects your system.
- First aid kit
- Waterproof bandaids/bandages
- Antiseptic cream
- Basic medications
- Panadol & Nurofen if you are an Aussie, Tylenol & Advil if you are American etc. for your country.
- Any of your prescription medications.
- Aloe vera for potential sunburn treatment (hopefully not)
- Chafing cream
- You will likely be a sweaty Betty in fiji, plus salt water, chafing can really suck.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Aerogard/insect repellent
- Crucial for some islands where mosquitoes can be quite prevalent + prevents you from catching dengue or other mosquito carried diseases that may be around.
- I find the kids’ versions usually less harsh and comfortable on the skin.
- Bug bite relief
- After-bite treatment for any bites you do get – don’t let itchiness ruin your relaxing holiday.
Organisation
- Packing cubes
- Keeps clothes organised and maximises luggage space.
- I’ve used compression packing cubes, and regular ones in the past. Compression cubes definitely help with space, but regular ones are easier to use.
- Dry bag
- Useful for boat trips, snorkelling or rainy days
- Laundry soap
- Important for longer stays, but not needed for short trips if you pack enough to last.
- Fijian cash in your wallet ready to go in case.
- A travel money card
- For fellow Australians I personally recommend Up and have used them for the last 5 years.
- If you sign up here via my link, you get a free $14 to start with! (When I signed up with someones code back in the day it was only $5 lol, so big win for you)
Tech & Extras
- Universal power adapter
- Fiji uses the same powerpoints as Australia – so depending on where you are travelling from this may not be essential
- Portable charger/power bank
- Especially if you are going on day trips or to remote areas you do not want to run out of phone charge.
- Small backpack for day trips
Remember that many resorts offer laundry services, so you can pack lighter for longer stays. Local markets also sell many basic items, and there is a lot of beautiful skincare, coconut lotions etc made in fiji with local ingredients that I would highly recommend trying out. But more specialised gear like underwater cases and reef-safe sunscreen are best brought from home to be safe.
With this packing list, you’ll be thoroughly prepared to enjoy everything Fiji has to offer, from pristine beaches to lush jungles and vibrant underwater worlds.