Carry-On Only Island Hopping Packing List

Just the term “island-hopping” should immediately register as “pack light” but for some, or all, of us, that’s usually just not possible! However if you’re heading to certain islands, like the South Pacific, where airlines charge $150 per flight for a checked bag, you might want to start reconsidering your luggage size, and wardrobe!

Here’s my recommendations for packing for Island hopping with a carry on! The main goal here is to not just pack light, but to also pack LIGHTWEIGHT!

Carry-On Packing Essentials for Island Hopping

Link: Travel Compression Bags

Travel compression bags ave been my go-to packing essential hack for nearly ten years now. I literally cannot pack without them, especially since I am AWFUL at folding or rolling clothes. They organize everything, and save space — just be careful that it doesn’t lead you to over pack and add extra weight !

I usually use several small ones and organize my clothes according to when I will wear them. For example, one small bag for dresses and regular clothes, one just for swimsuits and undies, and an extra one for dirty clothes.

Link: Hanging Toiletry Bag

Hanging toiletry bags are so underrated when it comes to carry-on only travel! Most people have several different bags for toiletries, cosmetics, etc., but if you use one of these organizers, it not only takes up less space, but it limits what you can bring, AKA, less weight!

Lightweight Clothing Ideas

Remember, the goal here is pack light, and LIGHTWEIGHT! It’s easy to cram a ton of things into a carry-on, but that won’t help you when the ticket agent demands to weigh your bag!

From my experience, light fabrics like chiffon and silk work best, so that’s what you’ll see in most of my recommendations!

Chiffon Scarves

Link: Chiffon Scarf

My latest go-to fashion staple for beach destinations has been colorful chiffon scarves that can be tied in various ways! I wear them as a dress, as a skirt, as a top, and as a head wrap, and they can make several different outfits when paired with swimsuits and shorts

Two Piece Sets

Link: Two Piece Sets

I like two piece sets in general, but also a lot for carry-on only travel and island hopping, because you can make three different outfits or more with them, lowering the amount of items you pack. You can wear them as a set, or pair the bottoms with a tank top, or the top with other shorts or your scarf!

Lightweight Dresses

Link: Lightweight Dresses

Most of us like to pack long dresses, but unfortunately those aren’t very lightweight, unless they are only chiffon without lining, like the first photo of me in this section. I’d recommend opting for similar fabrics and maybe shorter dresses, but it’s always good to have at least one long one for things like nice dinners or events!

Shoes

Link: Jelly Shoes

That’s right, your favorite childhood trend is back, and there’s an adult version! We absolutely love jelly shoes for Island hopping travel because they’re cute, comfy, lightweight, and waterproof! They’re also adventure tested and proven – I’ve even climbed an active volcano in them!

Water Shoes

Link: Water Shoes

If you have sensitive feet, or just want to avoid potentially getting injured, I’d recommend getting a pair of lightweight water shoes, and preferably the kinds that double as sneakers! They’re also much better than regular sneakers because they’re quick drying!

ISLAND ESSENTIALS

When traveling to islands, there are some essentials you should be sure to bring, especially if you’re heading to more remote areas!

Mask and Snorkel

Link: Clear Mask and Snorkel

If you’re an avid snorkeler, I’d recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel on an island hopping trip. From my experience in places like Vanuatu and Fiji, some places had beautiful coral reefs right off of the beach, but no where to rent a mask, or super high rental fees. BUT, if it takes up too much space or weight, feel free to opt for the rentals.

Reef Safe Sunscreen

Link: Reef Safe Sunscreen

While it has been proven lately that coral bleaching is due to global warming, not your sunscreen, it’s still nice to use a product that’s mineral based so it doesn’t leave that gross oil sheen in the water! To be even more carry-on friendly, you can opt for a sunscreen stick instead of liquid.

Dry Bag

Link: Small Dry Bag

To prevent your gadgets (even though most these days are waterproof) and clothing from getting wet at the beach or on boat rides, you may want to pack a small sized dry bag for Island hopping. They usually are pretty lightweight as well, and can double as a hand-washing-machine!

I hope this post helps you pack easier for your next island hopping trip! Please share it on social media if you enjoyed it!