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What to Pack & Bring

Tropical Attire

The Marshall Islands features a consistently hot and humid climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for managing the heat and humidity.

Clothing Essentials

  • Lightweight fabrics (cotton, linen, and quick-drying synthetics) for comfort.
  • Loose-fitting clothing for better air circulation, keeping you cooler.
  • A Light rain jacket or a compact Poncho for sudden tropical downpours.

Cultural Dress & Swimwear

Modest attire is appreciated throughout the Marshall Islands, especially when visiting local communities, churches, or government buildings.

Modesty & Activities

  • Women: Covering shoulders and knees shows respect. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public areas outside of your resort or beach.
  • Men: While shorts are acceptable, avoid extremely short shorts or going shirtless in public areas beyond the beach.
  • Religious Sites: When visiting churches, both men and women should dress conservatively (covered shoulders and knees).

Footwear Essentials

Everyday Wear

Flip-flops or sandals are your go-to for daily use due to the heat and humidity.

Light & Comfortable

Water Activities

Water shoes or Reef shoes protect your feet against coral, sharp rocks, and other hazards when entering the water or walking on beaches.

Reef Protection

Exploration

Light, Comfortable walking shoes or Sandals are appropriate for general exploration in urban areas or villages. Heavy Hiking boots are unnecessary.

Urban & Village Walks

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Documents

Have both printed and digital copies of everything important.

  • Valid passport (6 months beyond planned departure date).
  • Visas/entry permits (if required for your nationality).
  • Proof of onward/return ticket.
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover your duration of stay.
  • Photocopies and digital scans of passport/visas, kept separate from originals.
  • Travel insurance policy details (policy numbers, emergency contact information, summary of coverage).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if planning to rent a car, obtained in your home country.
  • Vaccination records and any specific medical information or prescriptions, with a doctor's note.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The Marshall Islands uses Type A and B sockets (standard North American 2-pin and 3-pin plugs) with 120V at 60Hz. Travelers from North America will not need an adapter or converter.

Electrical Needs

  • Socket types: Type A & B (North American standard plugs).
  • Voltage: 120V at 60Hz. North American travelers are covered.
  • International travelers: If your devices use different plug types or voltage, a Universal travel adapter may be necessary.

Mobile & Charging

Mobile phones generally need GSM compatibility to work with local networks. Local SIM cards are available from the National Telecommunications Authority (NTA) in Majuro, but internet access and data can be expensive and slow.

Communication & Power

  • Local SIM cards from NTA for calls/data (coverage limited to Majuro/Ebeye).
  • GSM compatible phone for local networks.
  • A Portable power bank (Anker Power Bank) for charging devices on the go, especially for outer island excursions.

Camera & Data Essentials

Camera Gear

A Waterproof camera (GoPro HERO12 Black) for underwater photography is highly recommended. Bring extra batteries and memory cards. A Dry bag protects gear on boats or at the beach.

App Recommendations

Download offline map applications (Google Maps or Maps.me) onto your phone, as internet access can be unreliable. A basic Translation app for Marshallese phrases can be helpful.

Data Security

Cloud storage or an External hard drive a way to back up photos and important documents. This protects your memories and information in case of device loss or damage. An RFID blocking wallet for credit cards and passports protects against electronic theft.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit readies you for minor ailments and guards against local health concerns.

Kit Contents

Medications & Hygiene

Carry all necessary prescription medications in their original packaging. Bring a copy of the prescription or a doctor's note explaining your medical condition and the medications. This avoids issues at customs and for potential refills.

Daily Health

Water Safety & Comfort

Water Purification

  • Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Only consume bottled water, or water that you know has been boiled or purified.
  • A Personal water filter or Purification tablets can be useful for emergencies or when venturing to remote outer islands.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of Bottled water, especially in the tropical climate.

Personal Comfort

  • Bring preferred brands of toiletries. Specific items, especially specialty brands or eco-friendly options, may be limited or unavailable locally.
  • Motion sickness remedies are advisable for boat trips, especially for inter-island travel or deep-sea fishing excursions, where waters can be choppy.
  • Beyond repellent, bring creams or balms for soothing bites, as mosquitoes are present year-round.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Dive/Snorkel Gear

While gear can be rented from dive shops in Majuro, bringing your own Mask, snorkel, and fins (COZIA DESIGN Snorkel Set) makes for a comfortable fit. A Rash guard sun protection.

  • Consider a Dive computer or regulator if you own them for familiarity.
  • Bulky dive gear like BCDs (Buoyancy Control Devices) or regulators is often more practical to rent locally due to airline baggage restrictions.
  • A thin Wetsuit or dive skin (3mm or less) provides thermal protection and additional protection from coral or stings.
  • Water temperatures are generally warm, so heavy wetsuits are not needed.

Fishing Equipment

If you plan to fish independently or prefer your own gear, a packable Travel fishing rod and basic tackle is useful. Most fishing charters provide gear, but personal equipment ensures quality and comfort.

  • Deep-sea and lagoon fishing are popular activities in the Marshall Islands.
  • Abundant tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin are common catches.
  • Fishing can be done year-round due to the consistent tropical climate.
  • Charters often include bait and tackle, but specific lures may be personal preference.

Adventure Essentials

A Dry bag (Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag) an invaluable item for boat trips and beach outings. It protects electronics, cameras, and valuables from water, sand, and spray.

  • Using Reef-safe sunscreen (Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+) protects the fragile coral reefs from harmful chemicals found in many commercial sunscreens.
  • Personal snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins) and a rash guard are generally preferred for a comfortable and hygienic experience.
  • Water shoes are highly recommended for walking on reefs or entering the water to protect your feet.
  • Consider a portable power bank for charging devices during excursions.

Gear Decisions

Bring Your Own

  • Personal snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins) for a comfortable fit and hygiene.
  • Rash guard for sun protection and light thermal insulation during water activities.
  • Water shoes for walking on coral and rocky beaches.
  • Travel fishing rod if you prefer your own equipment or plan independent fishing.

Rent Locally

  • Bulky dive gear like BCDs and regulators is often more practical due to airline baggage restrictions and weight limits.
  • Wetsuits if you prefer not to carry them; dive shops in Majuro maintain a stock of rental equipment.
  • Large fishing equipment if not bringing your own travel rod, as charters often supply gear.
  • Other specialized equipment not frequently used, to minimize luggage.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not forget these items that elevate comfort, security, and convenience for your journey, especially during long travel segments or in unfamiliar surroundings.

Travel Comfort

Eco-Friendly & Unique Needs

Prioritize reusable items to minimize waste and bring specific items that might be difficult to find locally or cater to your unique preferences.

Conscious Packing

Hard-to-Find Local Items

Dietary Needs

If you require specific dietary supplements, bring a sufficient supply for your trip duration.

Specialty Sunscreens

If you have sensitive skin or prefer particular brands of sunscreen (especially reef-safe ones), bring them with you.

Snack Foods

If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, bring your favored snack foods, as selection can be limited.

Bug Bite Relief

Beyond repellent, bring creams or balms for soothing bites that may occur despite precautions.

Region-Specific Essentials

Navigation & Safety

  • Offline map applications for Majuro and surrounding areas.
  • A small Flashlight or Headlamp for navigating poorly lit areas at night or for power outages.
  • A Money belt for securing cash, passports, and other important documents discreetly under your clothing.

Cultural Sensitivity

  • A basic translation app for Marshallese phrases helps with communication.
  • Modest clothing for cultural sites and villages, show respect.
  • An openness to local customs and "island time" for a more relaxed journey.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack light. Laundry facilities can be limited, so focus on quick-drying items you can wash easily by hand.

A smaller bag also makes navigating inter-island travel easier and more efficient.