What to Pack?
The Maldives are a straightforward travel destination — you need less than you think. But a few things are essential:
Must-Haves
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): Oxybenzone and octinoxate damage corals — many resorts ban them. Brands: Reef Safe, Stream2Sea. Hard to find in the Maldives, be sure to bring some!
- Snorkel mask: Resorts and guesthouses rent equipment, but quality varies. A well-fitting personal mask makes a huge difference. Tip: Full-face masks (Easybreath) are often banned in the Maldives — a classic mask + snorkel is better.
- Rash guard / UV shirt: Protects against sun and jellyfish contact while snorkeling. At the equator, you can burn in 20 minutes!
- Underwater camera / GoPro: Without a camera, you'll kick yourself if a whale shark swims by. GoPro Hero with waterproof housing or a budget underwater camera.
- Mosquito repellent (DEET 30 %+): Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in the evenings on local islands. Resorts usually spray, but on local islands, you're on your own.
- Travel pharmacy: Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium), painkillers, band-aids (for coral cuts), antihistamines, ear drops (for divers/snorkelers).
- Universal adapter: Sockets are type G (British, 3-pin). An adapter is a must! USB ports are handy.
Additionally for local islands
- Covering clothing: Long pants/skirt and T-shirt with covered shoulders for the village. No see-through material.
- Water bottle with filter: Tap water on local islands is desalinated water — drinkable, but doesn't taste good. A bottle saves plastic.
- Cash (USD): 200–300 $ for excursions, food, and tips.
- Headlamp: For night beach walks (bioluminescence!) and power outages on small islands.
- Dry bag: For boat trips — splashing is unavoidable on speedboats.
Resort vs. Local Island — Luggage Comparison
| Item | Resort | Local Island |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Swimwear + 2 evening outfits | Swimwear + covering clothing |
| Shoes | Flip-flops (barefoot islands!) | Flip-flops + light shoes |
| Sunscreen | Reef-safe! | Reef-safe! |
| Alcohol | Available at the resort | Not available — do not bring any! |
| Snorkeling Equipment | Provided | Own recommended |
| Cash | Not necessary | 200–300 $ essential |
| Covering Clothing | Not necessary | Mandatory for the village |
💡 Tipp
Seaplane transfers have a strict baggage limit of 20–25 kg (plus 5 kg hand luggage). Pack light! If you have too much, you can store excess luggage at the airport (luggage storage in the terminal, $5/day).
