If you’re after a tropical escape, how about jumping on a flight and saying ‘bula’ to Fiji! Located in the South Pacific it is truly an unforgettable experience. Fiji is known for its unique culture, plenty of sunshine and beautiful beaches! If that sounds like a bit of you, carry on reading and let’s plan your essential things to pack for Fiji!
What Is the Weather Like in Fiji?
The wet season, lasting from November to April is characterised as ‘Fiji’s summer’. It brings with it some of Fiji’s hottest days of the year. But also due to the tropical climate, it is not surprising to get short intense bursts of rain. Don’t let this put you off though! The water stays warm and can sometimes reach up to 30 degrees! In comparison, the dry season runs from April through to October. It is characterised by a lack of rain, shorter days and cooler weather. But don’t be afraid, the temperature rarely drops below 20 degrees. Now you can see why Fiji delivers the goods weather-wise, all year round.
Just note that outside of tourist areas, dress standards are more conservative. Take care not to offend when you visit local villages or churches, in these places you will be expected to wear shorts or sulus (a traditional Fiji garment) that cover your knees, and for women to cover their shoulders. Also, in these areas sunglasses and hats should be removed as the top of the head is considered sacred - only the local chief will have the right to wear something in this manner.
Now you know what roughly to expect in Fiji as far as the weather goes and have a good idea of what you will be wearing. How about some advice on what other items to pack?
What Luggage Should I Bring to Fiji?
Some of the small things that are easy to forget are items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, jandals and a sunhat. You’re going to make sure you have all these things sorted before you embark on your journey, that way you don’t have to waste your precious vacation time doing a mercy dash to the convenience store! Hey…speaking of embarkment, we haven’t asked…have you sorted out your tickets yet? If you still need to get those sorted, check out some of the cheap flights we have on offer to Fiji right now!
For some more essential items that might not immediately spring to mind as something to add to your Fiji packing list check out some of our special inclusions below.
Ten Essential Things to Pack for Fiji: Checklist
1. Waterproof Bag
You can’t say you have been to Fiji without making a splash in the water! Whether it’s drinking a cocktail by the pool, or out on a boat jetting across the ocean, you are going to want to keep your belongings safe. Bring a waterproof bag and feel secure knowing your clothes will be dry and your phone will still work at the end of your water adventures!
2. Noise Cancelling Headphones
If lounging out under the sun at one of Fiji’s many resorts sounds appealing, do it in style and don’t allow yourself to get distracted by all the fuss going on around you. Noise cancelling headphones are great for laying back and relaxing, early morning walks to the beach or just a good way to pass the time and listen to some groovy tunes. Also, if you find on the flight back you are in an aisle next to a screaming baby or a snorer - you know what to do!
3. Portable Charger (Powerbank)
Save yourself from running back and forth to your room making sure your phone stays alive and instead bring a portable charger! With most brands holding a charge that can keep your phone working for up to 24 hours the worries of constantly checking your battery are no more. And now with this essential in your hands, you can make sure your phone is always ready to take that dream picture.
4. Book/Kindle
Make sure you bring that book that you’ve been trying to find time for (or have some podcasts ready that you’re interested in if that’s more your style). There’s no better way to get you in holiday mode than being poolside with food, drink, and some light entertainment.
5. Insect Repellent
Owing to the fact Fiji is in a tropical climate it is home to many insects. You are going to want to have insect repellent on hand and ready to go every time you venture outdoors. And as a side note, make sure to use a mosquito net if you like to sleep with the windows open, or you could also bring one of those mosquito repeller plugs to use in your room at night.
6. Snorkel Gear
Most resorts will be able to provide you with this, but if you prefer to use your own make sure you don’t forget it! Fiji is called the ‘soft coral capital of the world’, with a reputation like that you know diving below the water and witnessing the incredible marine life is something you don’t want to miss.
7. Reef Shoes
Make sure if you are going to venture out snorkelling or into the water you bring a good pair of reef shoes! Parts of the reef can contain sharp pieces of fauna such as fire coral that will cause nasty injuries on your feet if you aren’t careful.
8. Sunscreen / after sun gel
As we said earlier Fiji loves to shower its people in sunny tropical weather. So don’t let an annoying sunburn ruin your precious vacation time and have you feeling miserable. We recommend taking one with a strong SPF protection level. Consumer New Zealand did a test of all available sunscreens in 2021 and recommended brands such as UV Guard Max, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Lotion and Skinnies Sungel. And if you do get sunburnt (or miss a spot!), also make sure you pack some aloe vera after sun gel.
9. Sunhat and Sunglasses
Keeping in theme with protecting yourself from the pesky sun. Make sure you bring a sunhat and a quality pair of sunglasses. Ideally a pair that can block as much of the sun’s harmful rays as possible.
10. If you do bring food…
While not recommended due to most food items being prohibited to bring into Fiji, if you are trying to bring an item on the small list of acceptable goods (some snack foods, packaged meals, instant baby formula) remember to declare, declare, declare! That way when you arrive at the airport if in doubt you will have a better chance of avoiding a fine.
And for more inspiration on what a 7-day Fiji itinerary looks like, make sure you check out our blog on planning a relaxing week in Fiji.
