This Tahiti packing list covers overwater bungalow stays in Bora Bora, lagoon snorkelling, tropical island hiking, and French Polynesian resort life. Pack light, pack stylish, and don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen.
For style details and outfit ideas: What to Wear in Tahiti.
Tahiti Beach & Resort Packing List
- 3 swimsuits (salt water degrades lycra — pack multiples)
- 2 pareos/sarongs in tropical prints (beach wrap + evening cover-up)
- 2–3 sundresses or resort maxi dresses for dinner
- Light linen or silk blouse + wide-leg trousers set (smart casual)
- Light cardigan or linen jacket (resort AC can be cold)
- Flat leather sandals or espadrilles (resort evenings)
- Flip-flops (beach only)
- Water shoes (coral reef protection)
Water Activities Packing List
- Long-sleeved rash guard / UV swim shirt (UPF 50+)
- Reef-safe mineral sunscreen — SPF 50+ (oxybenzone banned in French Polynesia)
- Polarized sunglasses with floating strap (for lagoon boats)
- Underwater camera or waterproof phone case
- Dry bag for valuables on boat excursions
Hiking & Adventure Packing List (Mo’orea, Tahiti interior)
- Moisture-wicking t-shirt (long-sleeved for sun protection on ridge trails)
- Quick-dry shorts or trekking trousers
- Trail running shoes or light hiking boots with grip
- Compact rain jacket (mountain weather changes quickly)
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent (no-see-ums in humid valleys)
Tahiti Practical Essentials
- French Polynesia uses CFP Franc (XPF) — exchange euros or USD; cards accepted at resorts
- Universal power adapter (French Polynesia uses Type E sockets)
- Seasickness tablets (inter-island ferries can be rough)
- After-sun aloe vera gel
- Travel insurance
💡 Book lagoon tours, shark and ray snorkelling, and Bora Bora helicopter flights through Viator Bora Bora, and overwater bungalows through Booking.com.
FAQs: Tahiti Packing List
Is regular sunscreen allowed in French Polynesia?
No — French Polynesia bans chemical sunscreens (those containing oxybenzone and octinoxate) to protect its coral reefs. Use mineral (zinc oxide-based) sunscreen only. Brands like Raw Elements, Badger, and Thinksport are reef-safe options.
What is a pareo and should I pack one?
A pareo is a large rectangle of printed cotton tied in various ways — beach wrap, skirt, dress, or top. Buy one or two in Tahiti’s markets (they’re beautifully made and inexpensive locally) rather than packing from home. Absolutely essential for French Polynesian travel.