Since the early 1990s, Venture Destinations Advisors, Consultants, and Specialists have logged over 200 trips to the Islands of Tahiti and the South Pacific. Below is a short list of suggested items to consider taking with you based on what our team members actually pack when traveling to Bora Bora and Tahiti.
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We recommend bringing more sunscreen than you think you will need, and we recommend that you bring a higher SPF than you would normally use. The sun is quite strong in French Polynesia due to its location near the equator. Spray cans are quick and easy to use. But, you might find lotion easier to pack in travel size containers (shown below). Importantly, please help us protect the beautiful coral reefs by using reef friendly sunscreens.
Even though the hotels treat for pests like mosquitos, you may encounter some on excursions or explorations of the jungle-like interior of the islands, especially on the more remote islands. A spray on repellant is easy and quick. Lotions or wipes are also great to travel with. We also like to bring a few citronella candles for your bungalow terrace or deck if you are staying on the beach or in the garden (the salty sea air repels most mosquitos from the overwater bungalows). The CDC provides guidelines on which repellants are the best deterrent.
Hotels and Resorts will offer sanitized snorkeling gear for guest use including mask, snorkel and fins. However, even before COVID-19, we preferred to bring our own masks to be sure we have a good fit – nothing can ruin a snorkeling adventure like a leaky mask! With concerns surrounding COVID-19, you may want to consider bringing your own mask and snorkel. For the best views of the coral, the full face masks work very well – no fogging, 180 degree views, and a mount for your GoPro.
Hotels and Resorts will offer sanitized snorkeling gear for guest use including mask, snorkel and fins. However, even before COVID-19, we preferred to bring our own masks to be sure we have a good fit – nothing can ruin a snorkeling adventure like a leaky mask! With concerns surrounding COVID-19, you may want to consider bringing your own mask and snorkel. For the best views of the coral, the full face masks work very well – no fogging, 180 degree views, and a mount for your GoPro.
These just make life easier when you’re island hopping and trying to stay organized. They also help you save space. We have been using them for years.
Most hotels in the islands have 220v systems. So, you will need an electrical plug adapter. Most electronics will not require a voltage converter. We recommend getting one with USB ports, so you can leave your plug at home. French Plugs are used and have two round prongs, so you want to make sure buy one that says it will work in Europe. You should be able to find adapters that are flexible and can be used for all international destinations like the ones shown below.
For appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons, a combination voltage converter and plug adapter will usually be needed. It’s wise to always inquire at the hotel desk about the compatibility of your appliances before you attempt to use them. We’d recommend a useful charging station with your converter/adapter.
Some of the newer villas come equipped with a sound system you can hook up to your smartphone, tablet or laptop. However, most bungalows do not have a docking station, or speakers on the terrace. We recommend bringing your own portable speaker so that you can enjoy music wherever you are.
The lagoons in French Polynesia are incredibly clear with over a 120 feet of visibility. An underwater camera is a great way to capture your amazing snorkeling and diving adventures. GoPro cameras are very popular and reliable, and one of the snorkel masks we recommended above usually comes with a GoPro clip for hands free video. While smartphones have wonderful cameras, you will not want to risk dropping your phone in the lagoon. Trust us on that one…
Quick bursts of tropical showers in the early afternoon are common on many of the mountainous Society Islands. Also, an excursion or boat ride in choppy waters or light rain can make for a wet experience. It’s a good idea to have a lightweight poncho or rain jacket on hand (especially if you are dressed for a dinner reservation). Besides, umbrellas don’t always work well if it’s windy.
Protect your smartphone, valuables and anything else you might need to keep dry on those beautiful lagoon excursions or while island hopping, jet skiing, or just during a downpour. A good dry bag will help you relax and not worry about protecting your gear. It also comes in handy when packing your wet swimsuit for the flight home.
In some of the shallow lagoon water, you may be able to stand up while you explore or snorkel. However, the coral can be quite sharp so we always recommend underwater or reef shoes. Flip flops or sandals will do the trick on many excursions, getting on and off of boats in shallow water while island hopping, or around the resort.
Good sun protection is essential in the tropics. A good hat will allow you to stay out on the lagoon or on the deck of your overwater bungalow for hours on end. Your face will thank you.
With long flights on both ends of your trip, you’ll appreciate a good travel pillow to rest on the plane. A great travel pillow can make all the difference on how you feel when you arrive in paradise.
Moving through the security line at the airport is a necessary, but often hectic, experience. If you take the time to pack your gels, lotions and liquids in TSA approved containers, it will make the experience go much more quickly and smoothly.
Even before COVID-19, hand sanitizer or cleansing wipes were a mainstay in our pockets, carry-ons and travel bags. Now, they are a necessity. We really like the individually wrapped wipes as they can fill in all the empty space in your suitcase and always come in handy for countertops, tray tables, etc.
Melt your cares away on the long flight or on the deck of your overwater bungalow while enjoying your favorite music, podcast or audiobook. A good pair of earbuds or headphones are a must for the modern traveler. Go for the Active Noise Reduction models to help you feel refreshed after your flight. Eliminating the drone of the jet engines goes a long way in protecting you from jet-lag.
On some of our trips, we have encountered exceptional service from private tour guides or on occasion from service staff at a hotel. While tips in French Polynesia are always welcome, we have found that a small token or gift is much more appreciated and suited to the warm and friendly Polynesian spirit. Something like a book about your hometown or perhaps some local candy/delicacy. Coloring books or children’s books for the local schools are also a well received gift.
