Build your island packing list
You are packing for a boat, a beach and a family, and want to remember the basics.
This builder gives you an editable packing list for an island trip. Pick the kinds of trip that apply and it adds the right items on top of a basic list. Items that depend on the resort are written as questions to ask.
For the bag logistics, see how to split a mainland bag and an island bag. If rain is a worry, read wet-weather gear for island trips.
How do I use the builder?
Choose the trip types, press the button, then edit the list.
- Tick every trip type that applies: kids, snorkelling, someone who cannot swim, near the monsoon, or older parents.
- Press “Build my checklist”.
- Tick items as you pack them.
- Remove items you do not need, and add your own at the bottom.
Practical implication: the basics are always on the list, so even an empty selection gives you a sensible start.
What is on the basic list?
The basics cover things almost every island trip needs: identity documents for each traveller, your booking confirmation and operator number, some cash in small notes, a dry bag for the boat, sun protection, swimwear, a charger and power bank, your own medicines and sandals.
Cash is there because card payment on small islands may not work. Ask your operator, rather than assuming either way.
How does each trip type change it?
Each type adds a few items and, where it matters, a question for the operator.
- Kids: snacks, spare clothes and questions about child rates and meals.
- Snorkelling: mask fit, sun-safe swimwear and a question on gear.
- Someone cannot swim: no clearance, only questions on life jackets and supervision.
- Near the monsoon: rain gear, extra dry bags and cancellation questions.
- Older parents: medicines for the whole stay, non-slip shoes and questions on steps.
Our guide on luggage on island boats covers weight and waterproofing.
What can it not do?
It cannot tell you what is allowed, provided or safe. It does not check weather, permits or a medical need. Anyone with a health condition should ask their own doctor and the operator. On boats, see life jackets on island boats for what to ask.
A worked example (hypothetical)
Imagine a couple travelling with one parent in their seventies and a seven-year-old, and snorkelling is planned. They tick kids, snorkelling and older parents.
The list now has the basics, snacks and spare clothes for the child, a mask-fit item and the reef question, plus a medicine list for the parent and non-slip shoes. They remove the toy item, add “hat for grandpa”, and tick the rest off over the weekend.
What should I do with the list?
Keep the questions, because those are the part that changes your trip. Send the list to us if you want help phrasing them for your resort or boat operator.
Common questions
Does the list tell me what the resort provides?
No. Resorts differ on towels, snorkelling gear, life jackets and power sockets. Where an item depends on the resort, the list says to ask. Confirm with your operator before packing something heavy or leaving something behind.
Can I change the list?
Yes. Tick items as you pack them, remove ones you do not need and add your own. The edits stay on your device while the page is open. Refreshing the page starts a fresh list, so send or note it down first.
Why are there no official travel requirements on it?
Rules for permits, parks and boats can change, and we do not want to state one that is out of date. The list tells you to check with the operator or the park for any current requirement.
What if my trip is near the monsoon months?
Tick the monsoon option for rain gear, extra dry bags and questions about cancelled boats. Most east-coast resorts close during the northeast monsoon, roughly November to February or March, and exact dates vary by resort and year.