Planning a trip to French Polynesia? Here are some things that you might not think to pack.
French Polynesia was one of the most beautiful and most expensive places that I’ve visited. Besides the normal items, bathing suits, underwear, etc. here is what you need to know about packing for a trip to French Polynesia. I spent 2 weeks visiting Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, and Huahine and below are a few essential items that you’ll need to pack for your trip.
Sunscreen
I know the first item seems pretty obvious, but seriously, pack more than you think you’ll need…it’s $25-$30 a bottle (8oz) to buy!
Bug Spray
You will definitely need it for jungle tours and hiking! Although it’s not as pricey as sunscreen, it’s still $15 plus for a bottle.
Sun Hat
The sun in French Polynesia can be very strong. I bought this sun hat on Amazon and love it! It’s the best way to say “Out of Office”!
Raft
A raft is a must in French Polynesia, especially if you plan to stay in an over water bungalow. This raft from Amazon also doubles as a beach mat…highly recommend! Dave and I took these as our carry on items. If you’re flying Air Tahiti, they consider the weight of items vs. the number of items, so we checked these rafts without any extra costs when we island hopped across French Polynesia.
Snorkeling Masks
Although some of the resorts offer snorkeling equipment to use or rent, the quality is not always very good. These snorkeling masks cover your entire face and allow you to breath naturally. They also allow you to dive under water without holding your breath or taking a chance, that if you’re like me, you’ll snort water up your nose:) And in French Polynesia, most times you can snorkel anywhere, so it helps to have your own mask so that you don’t miss out on any opportunities to see colorful fish! Huahine was our favorite place to snorkel!
Underwater Camera
French Polynesia is such an amazing destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure to invest in a decent underwater camera so that you can take pictures of all those beautiful fish! I highly recommend swimming with whales in Moorea!
Read all about our adventures in Moorea.
Rain Jacket
The islands in French Polynesia are green for a reason! Even during dry season, it rains for a short period each day. Even though it’s warm most of the year, it can get cold quick when you’re soaked from the rain. Make sure to pack a light rain jacket.
Water shoes
There is lots of coral in the lagoon in French Polynesia, so water shoes are necessary to keep you from cutting your feet. These water shoes were pretty inexpensive and worked well hiking, biking, and swimming. Plus they have tons of different colors in stock so something for everyone!
Power Outlet Converter
In French Polynesia the power plugs and sockets are of type A, B and E. The standard voltage is 110 / 220 V and the standard frequency is 60 / 50 Hz. Because you may encounter multiple types of plugs, you should bring a universal converter. This universal converter charges both via outlets and USB and has surge protection, which is very important if you plan to use a curling iron.
Cold Cup
Additionally, alcohol is extremely expensive in French Polynesia. One drink will run you $20 or more. Your best bet is to buy alcohol duty free at LAX and make your own drinks. We took these cold cups with us to all the beaches and while biking around the islands. They saved us a ton of money and kept the drinks cold all day!
Related Posts:
French Polynesia: 11 Adventures That You Shouldn’t Miss When Planning Your Trip
How to Score a Great Deal on an Over Water Bungalow in French Polynesia
Itinerary for Biking Around Bora Bora
Huahine- The Best Kept Secret of French Polynesia
How Not to Explore Tahiti on Your First Trip to French Polynesia
