Complete Fiji Packing List 2025 — What to Bring for Perfect Island Travel
Packing for Fiji requires balancing tropical climate needs with cultural sensitivity, adventure activities, and remote island logistics. From essential reef-safe sun protection to village-appropriate clothing, this comprehensive 2025 guide ensures you bring everything needed for comfortable, respectful, and memorable South Pacific island experiences while avoiding common overpacking mistakes. Whether you're island-hopping through the Yasawas, diving Taveuni's Rainbow Reef, or visiting traditional villages, proper packing makes all the difference.
📘 Table of Contents
- 🧳 Luggage Selection & Weight Limits
- ☀️ Sun Protection — The #1 Priority
- 👕 Clothing — Climate & Culture Balance
- 💊 Health, Medications & First Aid
- 🦟 Insect Protection Essentials
- 🏊 Water Activities & Snorkel Gear
- 🔌 Electronics & Power Solutions
- 📋 Documents, Money & Travel Essentials
- 🎁 Cultural Gifts & Sevusevu Ceremony
- 🚫 What NOT to Bring
- ✅ Shopping in Fiji vs. Bringing from Home
- 📝 Ultimate Fiji Packing Checklists
- ❓ Packing FAQs
- 🎒 Final Packing Wisdom
🎒 Packing Quick Facts
Climate: Tropical year-round, 25-32°C (77-90°F)
Luggage Type: Soft duffel bags work best for island transfers
Domestic Flight Limits: 15-23kg checked + 7kg carry-on
Power: 240V, Type I plugs (Australian standard)
Key Essential: Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring from home!)
Cultural Note: Cover knees/shoulders in villages
Money: Bring FJ$ cash for outer islands (ATMs limited)
Customs: No fresh food, wooden items, coral/shells
🧳 Luggage Selection & Weight Limits
Choosing the right luggage is critical for Fiji travel. Inter-island ferries, small aircraft, and beach transfers make wheeled suitcases impractical. Here's what works best for navigating Fiji's transportation network.
✅ Best Luggage Options
- Soft-sided duffel bag (60-80L): Easy to stow on boats, fits overhead in small planes
- Waterproof dry bag (30-40L): Secondary bag for boat trips, protects from rain
- Daypack (20-25L): Daily excursions, snorkeling trips, village visits
- Packing cubes: Organize clothes, separate clean from dirty
- Waterproof pouches: Essential for electronics, documents, medications
Recommended brands: Osprey Transporter, Patagonia Black Hole, Sea to Summit dry bags
📏 Weight Limits & Fees
- Fiji Airways Domestic: 23kg checked + 7kg carry-on (included)
- Fiji Link (small planes): 15kg total (checked + carry-on combined)
- Excess baggage: FJ$5-10 per kg over limit
- Yasawa Flyer: 20kg limit, FJ$3 per kg excess
- Water taxis: Usually no strict limits, but compact bags easier
Pro tip: Pack one complete outfit + essentials in carry-on in case checked bag is delayed
☀️ Sun Protection — The #1 Priority
Fiji sits at 18°S latitude with UV index reaching 12-16 (extreme) in summer and 7-10 (high) in winter. Water reflection intensifies exposure by 25%. Comprehensive sun protection isn't optional — it's essential for your health and comfort.
🧴 Reef-Safe Sunscreen Guide
⚠️ Why Reef-Safe Matters
Chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate cause coral bleaching, damage marine ecosystems, and are increasingly banned at Fiji resorts and marine parks. Studies show these chemicals trigger viral infections in coral, even at concentrations as low as 62 parts per trillion. With 14,000+ tons of sunscreen entering oceans annually, choosing reef-safe products is critical for protecting Fiji's marine biodiversity.
The problem: Reef-safe sunscreen in Fiji costs FJ$35-50 per bottle (US$16-23) with limited availability on outer islands. Bring your own from home where prices are FJ$15-25 (US$7-11).
| Brand | Active Ingredient | SPF | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Lizard Australian | Zinc oxide 10% | 50+ | Sensitive skin, kids | US$12-15 |
| Badger Active | Zinc oxide 22.5% | 30 | Sports, water resistant | US$14-16 |
| Stream2Sea | Zinc oxide 20% | 30 | Diving, snorkeling | US$16-18 |
| ThinkSport/Thinksun | Zinc oxide 20% | 50+ | All activities | US$10-13 |
| Raw Elements | Zinc oxide 25% | 30 | Face, eco-conscious | US$15-17 |
Complete Sun Protection Kit
- ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+: 2-3 large bottles (250ml each) for 2-week trip
- ✅ Lip balm SPF 30+: Lips burn easily, often forgotten
- ✅ After-sun lotion: Aloe vera gel for inevitable burns (100-200ml)
- ✅ Wide-brimmed hat: 3+ inch brim, UPF 50+ rated, strap for wind
- ✅ UV sunglasses: 100% UV-A/B protection, polarized for water glare
- ✅ Rashguard/swim shirt: UPF 50+, long-sleeve for maximum protection
💡 Sun Safety Pro Tips
- Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure: Allows skin absorption
- Reapply every 90 minutes: More frequently after swimming/sweating
- Don't forget: Ears, back of neck, tops of feet, scalp (if bald)
- Water amplifies UV: Wear rashguard even when snorkeling
- Cloudy doesn't mean safe: 80% of UV penetrates clouds
- Peak hours 10am-4pm: Seek shade, wear protective clothing
👕 Clothing — Climate & Culture Balance
Fiji's tropical climate (80-90% humidity) and conservative culture require versatile clothing that keeps you cool while showing respect in villages and towns. Quick-dry, lightweight fabrics work best. For cultural guidance, see our Fijian cultural etiquette guide.
🌴 Packing by Season
| Item Type | Dry Season (May-Oct) | Wet Season (Nov-Apr) |
|---|---|---|
| Swimwear | 2-3 swimsuits, regular fabric | 3-4 swimsuits, quick-dry essential (humidity) |
| Daily Wear | 5-7 t-shirts, 3-4 shorts/skirts | 7-9 t-shirts (more frequent changes), 4-5 shorts |
| Evening Wear | Light sweater/cardigan (air-con, cool nights) | Very light cover-up (air-con only) |
| Rain Gear | Light rain jacket (occasional showers) | Waterproof rain jacket + compact umbrella |
| Footwear | Sandals, water shoes, 1 closed-toe pair | Same + extra sandals (one pair drying) |
🏖️ Beach & Resort
- 3-4 swimsuits/board shorts
- Beach cover-ups, sarongs
- Quick-dry shorts (Columbia, Patagonia)
- Tank tops, t-shirts (breathable fabric)
- Flip-flops (Havaianas, Reef)
- Water shoes for reef entry
Fabric tip: Polyester/nylon blends dry faster than cotton in humidity
🏘️ Villages & Cultural
- Long pants (lightweight cotton/linen)
- Knee-length skirts/dresses
- Collared shirts with sleeves
- Modest blouses (shoulders covered)
- Closed-toe shoes/sandals
- Sulu/sarong (buy locally FJ$10-20)
Cultural note: Remove hats/sunglasses when entering villages
🍽️ Evening & Dining
- 1-2 casual dresses/nice shirts
- Lightweight cardigan (over air-con)
- Comfortable sandals (dressy)
- One resort-casual outfit
- Light pants/skirt option
Dress code: Most resorts are "resort casual" — no formal wear needed
💊 Health, Medications & First Aid
Remote islands have limited medical facilities, making a comprehensive first aid kit essential. Outer islands may have only basic health centers or no facilities at all. For detailed health information, see our Fiji health and safety guide.
⚠️ Tropical Health Risks
🦟 Dengue Fever (Most Common):
- Transmitted by day-biting mosquitoes
- Higher risk during wet season (Nov-Apr)
- No vaccine — prevention is key
- Bring strong DEET repellent (30-50%)
💧 Traveler's Diarrhea:
- Common from street food, untreated water
- Bring anti-diarrheal medication
- Electrolyte packets for rehydration
- Antibiotics if severe (consult doctor)
💊 Essential Medications
- Prescription medications: Bring 2-week extra supply in original containers
- Pain relief: Ibuprofen/acetaminophen (Panadol in Fiji)
- Anti-diarrheal: Loperamide (Imodium) + electrolyte powder
- Antihistamine: Cetirizine (allergic reactions, insect bites)
- Motion sickness: Dramamine/ginger tablets (boat transfers)
- Antibiotics: Ciprofloxacin or azithromycin (prescription, for serious diarrhea)
🩹 First Aid Supplies
- Bandages: Various sizes, waterproof preferred
- Antiseptic: Betadine or alcohol wipes
- Antibiotic ointment: For cuts, coral scrapes
- Hydrocortisone cream 1%: Insect bites, rashes
- Antifungal cream: Athlete's foot common in humidity
- Tweezers: Splinters, sea urchin spines
- Digital thermometer: Monitor fevers
- Medical tape: Secure bandages in water
🦟 Insect Protection Essentials
Mosquitoes, sandflies, and no-see-ums are active year-round in Fiji, with peak activity at dawn and dusk. Dengue fever is the primary health concern, making comprehensive insect protection critical.
🧴 Repellents & Treatments
- DEET 30-50%: Most effective (OFF! Deep Woods, Repel 100)
- Picaridin 20%: Less odor, gentler (Sawyer Premium)
- Permethrin spray: Treat clothing, lasts 6 washes (Sawyer Permethrin)
- Natural option: Lemon eucalyptus oil 30% (limited effectiveness)
- After-bite stick: Ammonia-based for itch relief
Application: Apply repellent after sunscreen (wait 15 min)
👔 Physical Protection
- Long-sleeve shirt: Lightweight, breathable for evenings
- Long pants: Loose-fit, quick-dry fabric
- Closed shoes/socks: Dawn/dusk protection
- Mosquito head net: Jungle hikes, village stays
- Portable net: Backup for budget accommodation
Peak hours: 5-7am and 5-7pm when mosquitoes most active
🏊 Water Activities & Snorkel Gear
Fiji is world-renowned for diving and snorkeling. While equipment rental is available (FJ$15-30/day for snorkel sets), bringing your own ensures proper fit, hygiene, and saves money on extended trips. Discover the best spots in our eco-friendly activities guide.
🤿 Snorkeling Essentials
- Snorkel mask: Test fit before purchasing — no leaks critical
- Dry-top snorkel: Prevents water entry (Cressi, Aqua Lung)
- Fins (optional): Split fins easier on legs (Mares Avanti Quattro)
- Defog solution: Or baby shampoo to prevent fogging
- Mesh gear bag: Ventilation prevents mildew
- Reef-safe water shoes: Sharp coral, sea urchins
Rental cost: FJ$15-30/day vs. US$40-100 to buy quality gear
🤿 Diving Gear
- Certification cards: PADI/SSI required for diving
- Dive logbook: Track Fiji's amazing dive sites
- Dive computer: If you own one (rentals available)
- Wetsuit (3mm): Water 24-29°C, comfortable for extended dives
- Underwater camera: GoPro HERO 12, DJI Osmo Action
- Dive knife: Safety tool (must be in checked luggage)
Note: Full equipment rental at dive shops: FJ$50-80/day
🔌 Electronics & Power Solutions
Fiji uses Type I electrical outlets (Australian standard, like Argentina) with 240V power. Remote islands have limited electricity — some run generators 6-10 hours daily. Portable power solutions are essential.
⚡ Power & Charging
- Universal adapter (Type I/Australian)
- Power bank 20,000+ mAh (Anker, RAVPower)
- Solar charger for eco-resorts (Goal Zero)
- Multi-USB charging station
- Extra charging cables
📱 Devices & Comms
- Unlocked phone for local SIM
- Offline GPS (maps.me downloaded)
- Headlamp/flashlight (villages)
- Waterproof cases (LifeProof)
- E-reader with downloaded books
📷 Photography
- Camera + extra batteries
- Memory cards (128GB+)
- Underwater housing
- Portable tripod (Joby GorillaPod)
- Lens cloth (humidity/salt)
💡 Digital Prep Before Departure
- Download offline maps: Google Maps, Maps.me (entire Fiji)
- Save travel documents to cloud: Passport, insurance, tickets
- Download entertainment: Netflix shows, Kindle books, podcasts
- Install translation app: Google Translate offline Fijian
- Research local SIM: Vodafone Fiji (best coverage) or Digicel
📋 Documents, Money & Travel Essentials
Secure document storage with multiple backups is essential for island travel where replacement services are limited. Waterproof protection critical for boat transfers and high humidity.
📄 Essential Documents
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Return/onward flight tickets (print + digital)
- Travel insurance policy
- Driver's license (for car rental)
- Dive certifications (if diving)
- Hotel confirmations
💳 Financial Prep
- FJ$ cash (FJ$500-1,000 for islands)
- 2-3 credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- US$200 backup emergency cash
- Notify banks of travel dates
- Money belt/hidden wallet
- Note all card phone numbers
🔒 Backup & Storage
- Waterproof document pouch (Aquapac)
- Cloud backup (Google Drive, Dropbox)
- Physical photocopies (separate bag)
- Emergency contacts list
- Embassy registration (STEP program)
🎁 Cultural Gifts & Sevusevu Ceremony
Bringing appropriate gifts for village visits and participating in traditional kava ceremonies (sevusevu) shows cultural respect and opens doors to authentic Fijian experiences. For detailed cultural guidance, see our cultural etiquette guide.
🌿 Traditional Sevusevu
- Kava root bundle (1kg): Essential for village entry ceremony
- Where to buy: Suva Municipal Market, Nadi markets
- Cost: FJ$20-50 depending on quality
- Presentation: Wrapped in traditional masi cloth if possible
- Protocol: Present to village chief, wait for permission to enter
Important: NEVER enter a village without presenting sevusevu first
🎁 Appreciated Modern Gifts
- School supplies: Notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons
- Photos from home: Print pictures of your country/family
- Simple toys: Frisbees, bubbles, small games (no batteries)
- Practical items: Batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies
- Sports gear: Deflated soccer balls, tennis balls
Avoid: Money to children, candy (dental health), worn clothing
🚫 What NOT to Bring (Save Space & Hassle)
Fiji's customs regulations and practical considerations make certain items problematic, unnecessary, or prohibited. Understanding restrictions avoids confiscation, fines, or wasted luggage space.
❌ Customs Prohibited
- Fresh food/produce: Strict biosecurity, heavy fines
- Wooden items: Termite/pest risk (includes carved souvenirs)
- Coral/shells: Environmental laws, confiscation + fines
- Firearms/weapons: Including pocket knives in carry-on
- Certain medications: Check Fiji customs website beforehand
- Drones: Require permits, culturally inappropriate in villages
🤷 Unnecessary Items
- Heavy jacket: Unnecessary in tropical climate (maybe light cardigan)
- Formal shoes/clothes: Resort casual is dressiest you'll need
- Hair dryer: High humidity makes pointless; resorts provide
- Excessive electronics: Limited charging opportunities on islands
- Valuable jewelry: Security risk, culturally inappropriate
- Too many clothes: You'll wear same beach clothes daily
✅ Shopping in Fiji vs. Bringing from Home
Some items are better purchased in Fiji, while others should definitely be brought from home. Here's the strategic breakdown to optimize your luggage space and budget.
| Item | Buy in Fiji | Bring from Home | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reef-safe sunscreen | ❌ | ✅ | FJ$35-50 in Fiji vs US$10-15 home |
| Sulu/sarong | ✅ | ❌ | Local markets FJ$10-20, authentic |
| Kava for sevusevu | ✅ | ❌ | Must be fresh, FJ$20-50 at markets |
| Insect repellent | ⚠️ | ✅ | Available but expensive; bring DEET 30-50% |
| Snorkel gear | ⚠️ | ✅ | Rental FJ$15-30/day adds up; hygiene |
| Water shoes | ⚠️ | ✅ | Limited selection in Fiji, better fit |
| Basic toiletries | ✅ | ⚠️ | Available in towns; travel sizes from home |
| Medications | ❌ | ✅ | Limited pharmacy selection on islands |
📝 Ultimate Fiji Packing Checklists
Print these comprehensive checklists organized by traveler type. Check off items as you pack to ensure nothing is forgotten.
🎒 Budget Backpacker Checklist
Essentials:
- □ 60L backpack/duffel
- □ Daypack 20-25L
- □ 3 quick-dry t-shirts
- □ 2 pairs shorts
- □ 2 swimsuits
- □ Flip-flops + water shoes
- □ 1 long pants (villages)
- □ Light rain jacket
- □ Microfiber towel
- □ Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
Budget-Friendly Additions:
- □ Snorkel mask (save rental fees)
- □ Reusable water bottle with filter
- □ Headlamp (villages no lights)
- □ Mosquito net (budget hostels)
- □ Clothesline + clips
- □ Universal sink plug
- □ Padlock for lockers
- □ First aid kit basics
- □ FJ$500+ cash (islands)
- □ Travel insurance docs
👨👩👧👦 Family Traveler Checklist
Adult Essentials:
- □ Soft luggage for each adult
- □ 5-7 outfits per person
- □ Reef-safe sunscreen (multiple bottles)
- □ First aid kit (comprehensive)
- □ Prescription medications
- □ Power bank + chargers
- □ Underwater camera
- □ Documents in waterproof pouch
- □ Snacks for kids (long transfers)
- □ Entertainment (tablets, books)
Kids-Specific:
- □ Rash guards UPF 50+ (kids)
- □ Kids' snorkel sets (if 6+)
- □ Sand toys (bucket, shovel)
- □ Flotation devices if needed
- □ Kid-safe sunscreen stick
- □ Children's pain reliever
- □ Motion sickness bands/meds
- □ Favorite comfort items
- □ Wet wipes (lots)
- □ Small gifts for village kids
💎 Luxury Traveler Checklist
Premium Essentials:
- □ Quality soft luggage (Tumi, Briggs & Riley)
- □ Resort casual wardrobe (7-10 days)
- □ Premium reef-safe sunscreen
- □ Designer sunglasses + backup pair
- □ High-end camera gear
- □ Portable WiFi hotspot
- □ Noise-canceling headphones
- □ Premium toiletries (travel size)
- □ Jewelry (minimal, insured)
- □ Travel steamer (wrinkle-free)
Luxury Extras:
- □ Own dive computer (Garmin, Suunto)
- □ Premium underwater camera
- □ Silk sleeping bag liner (cleanliness)
- □ Portable espresso maker
- □ Quality wine opener (resort gifts)
- □ Designer beach accessories
- □ Multiple credit cards
- □ Concierge service contacts
- □ Travel insurance (comprehensive)
- □ VIP lounge passes
🤿 Adventure Diver Checklist
Diving Essentials:
- □ PADI/SSI certification cards
- □ Dive logbook + pen
- □ Dive computer
- □ Personal mask + snorkel
- □ 3mm wetsuit (optional)
- □ Dive knife/tool
- □ SMB/safety sausage
- □ Dive light (for wrecks)
- □ Underwater camera
- □ DAN insurance card
Adventure Gear:
- □ Hiking boots (waterfall hikes)
- □ Quick-dry hiking clothes
- □ Waterproof dry bag 40L
- □ GoPro with accessories
- □ Reef-safe sunscreen (lots)
- □ First aid kit (comprehensive)
- □ Water purification tablets
- □ Headlamp + extra batteries
- □ Multi-tool/Swiss Army knife
- □ Emergency whistle
❓ Packing FAQs
Quick answers to the most common packing questions for Fiji travel.
How much cash should I bring to Fiji?
Bring FJ$500-1,000 cash for outer islands where ATMs are limited or unavailable. Main islands (Viti Levu, Vanua Levu) have ATMs in towns. Also bring US$200-300 as emergency backup. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) widely accepted at resorts and restaurants, but villages and small shops require cash.
Can I bring my drone to Fiji?
Drones require permits from Fiji's Civil Aviation Authority and are culturally inappropriate in traditional villages. Most travelers skip drones due to permit complexity (FJ$150+ fees), strict flying restrictions, and cultural sensitivity issues. If bringing one, research regulations thoroughly and NEVER fly over villages without explicit permission.
Should I bring a wetsuit for diving/snorkeling?
Optional. Water temperatures range 24-29°C (75-84°F) year-round. A 3mm wetsuit adds comfort for extended diving sessions, especially May-September when water is coolest (24-26°C). Most divers are fine with just a rashguard. Wetsuits available for rent at dive shops (FJ$15-25/day).
Do I need a voltage converter for my electronics?
You need a plug adapter (Type I/Australian), but NOT a voltage converter. Fiji uses 240V like Australia/NZ. Modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) handle 110-240V automatically — check your charger labels. Only older single-voltage devices (110V only) need converters, which are rare nowadays.
Can I buy reef-safe sunscreen in Fiji?
Yes, but it's expensive (FJ$35-50 per bottle) with limited availability on outer islands. Major resorts and pharmacies in Nadi/Suva stock brands like Cancer Council and Blue Lizard. Better to bring 2-3 bottles from home where prices are US$10-15. Running out mid-trip means paying premium prices or using reef-damaging alternatives.
What's the best type of luggage for Fiji island-hopping?
Soft-sided duffel bags (60-80L) work best for Fiji. Wheeled suitcases are impractical for: small aircraft storage, boat transfers with no dock, beach landings, and village paths. Choose waterproof or water-resistant material. Osprey Transporter and Patagonia Black Hole are popular choices. Add a 30-40L dry bag for boat trips.
Should I bring snorkel gear or rent in Fiji?
Bring your own if snorkeling frequently (saves FJ$15-30/day) and ensures proper fit + hygiene. Quality sets cost US$40-100 and pay for themselves after 3-5 days. Rental gear quality varies and shared equipment hygiene is questionable. If snorkeling just once or twice, renting is fine.
How much insect repellent should I bring?
Bring 2-3 travel-size bottles (100ml each) of DEET 30-50% repellent for a 2-week trip. Mosquitoes and sandflies are active year-round, especially at dawn/dusk. Also bring permethrin spray to treat clothing (lasts 6 washes). Insect repellent available in Fiji but expensive and may be weaker formulations.
🎒 Final Packing Wisdom
Successful Fiji packing balances tropical climate needs, cultural respect, adventure readiness, and practical island logistics. The three non-negotiables: reef-safe sunscreen, appropriate village clothing, and waterproof protection for everything important.
Pro packer tips: Create your checklist 2 weeks before departure. Pack one complete outfit in carry-on for lost luggage situations. Leave 20% of luggage space empty for souvenirs. Test all electronics before packing. Check weather forecast for your specific travel dates. Remember: Fiji's relaxed island culture means you'll wear the same beach clothes daily — pack light and embrace the simplicity.
Most importantly, don't stress about forgotten items. Fiji has shops in main towns for basics, and the Fijian people are incredibly resourceful and helpful. The best souvenirs are experiences and memories, not a perfectly packed suitcase. Bula and safe travels! 🌺
Sources: Fiji Tourism Authority, Fiji Customs Service, personal travel experience (multiple Fiji trips 2020-2025), gear reviews from outdoor retailers, reef-safe sunscreen research from Environmental Working Group (EWG), diving equipment guidelines from PADI, local Fijian cultural advisors.
Last Updated: November 2025
Prices: All prices in Fijian Dollars (FJ$) with US Dollar equivalents where helpful. Exchange rate approximately FJ$1 ≈ US$0.45 (rates fluctuate).
Disclaimer: Packing needs vary by individual, season, and specific itinerary. Always check current customs regulations, airline baggage policies, and weather forecasts before your trip.