Summary of Packing for Tahiti
- Dressing on a Tahitian Trip
- Beware of the Tropical Sun
- Bringing Necessities
- Laptop Computers: To Bring or Not To Bring?
Visiting Tahiti is sure to be the trip of a lifetime for couples. Therefore, consider what to pack to ensure you have everything you need while enjoying your stay in the islands.
Dressing on a Tahitian Trip
Focus on casual, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. In most restaurants, the dress code is island casual, making sandals and espadrilles the perfect choice. For men, ties are not necessary, allowing for a more relaxed style.
Women can opt for sundresses or shorts, while local residents commonly wear pareos (sarongs) as everyday attire. Men typically wear shorts paired with T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts.
As many activities in Tahiti revolve around water, it’s wise to pack at least two bathing suits. Additionally, consider bringing amphibious shoes, as some ocean areas are covered in coral. Flip-flops are acceptable at the beach.
Beware of the Tropical Sun
When enjoying your trip to Tahiti, never underestimate the intensity of the tropical sun. Tourists often overlook the potential dangers, leading to sunburned skin.
To avoid becoming one of those red-skinned visitors, bring ample sunblock, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and a sun-proof shirt to protect yourself from harsh UV rays.
Bringing Necessities
While Tahiti offers beautiful souvenirs like luminescent pearls and colorful pareos, finding basic necessities can be a significant challenge. Since most items are imported, common goods can prove expensive and hard to locate.
To ensure a stress-free vacation, visitors should pack everything necessary, from personal hygiene products to simple utensils. Many hotels are situated in remote locations, with on-site shops typically selling mostly souvenirs and limited essentials.
Local villages often consist of only a few buildings, including pearl shops and banks, which may not meet your shopping needs. Consequently, taking a taxi for shopping trips can also add to your overall expenses.
Dining on Tahiti can be pricey, especially at hotel restaurants where meals range from $10 scrambled eggs to $30 breakfast buffets. Therefore, consider packing snacks such as power bars, crackers, or nuts. When you find a local market, be sure to stock up on baguettes, cheese, and locally sourced fruits like pineapples or mangos for delightful picnics.
A substantial Champion Supermarket is conveniently located near Papeete, within walking distance of the Marché Municipale. For travelers with rental cars, the larger Carrefour supermarket on the outskirts of Papeete is a great shopping option.
In addition, while prices at small grocery stores on the other islands are high, they are still reasonable. Picking up breakfast or lunch essentials can help you maintain a budget. Don’t forget to include a bottle opener and plastic cutlery in your packing list.
Laptop Computers: To Bring or Not To Bring?
Some hotels, like Le Meridien Bora Bora, provide computers for guest use, though availability may vary. Free wi-fi is accessible on those devices and in guest rooms, giving you a chance to stay connected.
Feel free to bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop during your vacation. With a long flight ahead, having your own entertainment options can significantly enhance your travel experience.
Once you arrive, don’t hesitate to share your adventures and the stunning beauty of the islands on social media. Enjoy your trip!
Written by Cynthia Blair.
