What to Pack For Your Trip To Bora Bora

So your overwater bungalow in Bora Bora is booked and it is time to decide what to bring with you on your trip to Bore Bora! The good news is with the tropical weather it shouldn’t take too much luggage to make the trip.

But there are a few must-have items you’ll want to have packed away. Here are our essentials to bring with you on a trip to Bora Bora.

What to Bring to Bora Bora Quick Takes

• Light clothes
• Flip-flops
• A swimsuit and a coverup
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• GoPro

Clothes to Wear in Bora Bora

Most of your time in Bora Bora will be spent on sand or in the water, so what you pack needs to be wearable in those environments. You’ll want to be able to move around comfortably without worrying about running back to your room in between activities.

Swimsuits!

There is no item more important than your suit! Bora Bora is a tropical island that offers dozens of water activities, so you know you’ll be getting wet. A swimsuit is what you will wear most often so make sure it is comfortable and functional for all the water activities you will partake in. 

It’s also not a bad idea to pack a few different swimsuits. Not only will you be able to add in a few different styles – for different activities – but you’ll also have enough swimsuits to wear throughout your whole stay.

Rash Guards or coverups

Your trip to Bora Bora will be centered around having fun in the sun. If you are like me, you get tired of putting on sunscreen, and having a rash guard makes protecting yourself from the sun so much easier. Make protecting yourself from the sun easier with a rash guard. This is perfect for jet ski and boat rides, snorkeling, and all your water activities.

Another Bora Bora essential is a swim cover-up. You are going to be wearing your swimsuit for most of your vacation so bring a couple of cover-ups for you to use when you want to walk around or to protect your skin from the sun.

You might also want to consider a pair of women’s swim shorts. When you are out on activities you may be more comfortable with more than a bikini bottom. Bring some shorts to either put over your swimsuit or find swim shorts for women.

Water Shoes 

For all your water activities, water shoes are a must. Water shoes will make things easier, especially when snorkeling. They will also be helpful in swimming if your overwater bungalow is near a reef.

Light Clothes

Bora Bora is a tropical climate so plan on wearing lighter, comfortable clothing. Yes, most of the time you’ll be wearing swimming attire, but for those obscure times you aren’t, you will need clothing options. As you pack, you will want cotton and linens that are breathable.

Flip-Flops

The best shoe option for Bora Bora is flip-flops. These are easy to slip on and off, will keep your feet protected as you move around, and it won’t be a big deal if they get a little wet. You might even buy a few while you are in Bora Bora.

Hiking Shoes

It’s also a good idea to pack a good pair of hiking shows. You might want to do some hiking while in Bora Bora, so bring some shoes with you that are appropriate for a hike.

Rain Jacket

Tropical destinations are known for frequent but short rain showers, so you’ll want to pack something to keep you dry. In case it does rain, a rain jacket will come in handy.

Clothes for Dining

For when you go out to dinner, you do not want to wear your swimsuit. You also do not need to dress formally. You just need a smart casual/resort formal outfit or two.

Other Essentials for Bora Bora

While the clothes you pack are important, you’ll also need a few other accessories and necessities to be fully packed and ready to enjoy the sun and fun in Bora Bora. Make sure you pack these essential items in your suitcase.

Sunscreen

Are we being too obvious?

Even if you are paranoid about wrinkles, sun damage, and skin cancer, wear sunscreen or you will regret it. I recommend bringing some in your carry-on or personal item on the plane that is not larger than 3.4 fluid ounces. In addition, you will want a lot more in your checked luggage.

Mosquito repellent

Make sure to bring some mosquito repellant. Bora Bora is a tropical island paradise, but it does have mosquitos that will get on your nerves. Keep the repellant close, and you’ll be able to enjoy each day with less itch.

Alcohol

The cost of your drinks in Bora Bora can add up to a hefty amount. You are allowed to fly into Bora Bora with 2L of liquor or wine per person, so 3 bottles each.

Take advantage of this and bring some in your checked luggage or purchase them in the Duty-Free zone before your flight. This can literally save you hundreds of dollars you would have quickly spent on drinks.

Snacks

Speaking of saving money, bring some of your favorite snacks. Bring some fruit leather, M&M’s, trail mix, dried fruit, or whatever you like. It will be helpful in between meals when you do not want to leave your bungalow but are also not feeling up to ordering room service.

Rucksack or Backpack

You are going to want both hands free at times so I recommend bringing a backpack for all your water activities. It is also perfect if you want to spend some time on the beach and want to bring some snacks or for taking hiking if you plan to do that.

Sun Hat

A sun hat is a tropical vacation essential. Bring a sun hat that can easily travel. You can find one that will fold up to be small enough to find in your purse, but also provide plenty of shade when you want that.

Snorkel and Fins

If you are planning on snorkeling in Bora Bora a lot, you may want to bring your own snorkel and fins. They can be very affordable, depending on what you are looking for. You can also just go on a snorkeling excursion and they will be provided to you.

GoPro

You are going to be spending a lot of time in the water where your iPhone can’t come with you. A GoPro will be perfect for taking underwater photos of your snorkeling adventure.

What Not to Bring to Bora Bora

A list of what not to bring on a trip to Bora Bora is just as important as a list of essentials. We can all have an urge to overpack – I mean who doesn’t want to be overly prepared? But there are a few things you can be sure to leave at home.

Anything too Valuable

Keep your valuables at home. You’ll be spending days on the beach and in the water, so you won’t be wearing any expensive jewelry that could get lost or damaged. You’ll be happier that your valuables are safe at home while you’re having a blast in Bora Bora.

Impractical Clothes and Shoes

No need to bring heels or anything overly formal. Even when you go to dinner, you’ll be most comfortable in a resort casual outfit for any meal times. Even when you go to dinner, you’ll be walking on sand, so you don’t want impractical shoes like heels.

With this list of essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything you’ve planned for your trip to Bora Bora. And you’ll be less stressed knowing everything is safely packed into your bag.