What I Packed for an Outdoorsy 2-Week Trip to Tahiti

25.09.2024 - 14:46 / matadornetwork.com

I’m not really much of a beach person, which may sound weird coming from someone who recently spent two weeks in French Polynesia. (Technically, the country is called “French Polynesia;” Tahiti is the name of the largest island, but often used to refer to the whole country).

But French Polynesia is so much more than just beaches. The country is made up of five island groups with multiple islands within each. While Bora Bora (within the Society Islands) may be the most famous, it’s hardly the only option. Visitors to the country can visit ancient archaeological sites in the Marquesas Islands, hike to hidden waterfalls on Mo’orea (just a 30-minute ferry ride from the international airport) or paddle a traditionalva’a outrigger canoe through tropical water. Snorkeling and scuba diving are available throughout the country, as are endless hiking trails, tours of fruit plantations, lots of boat tours and sailing adventures, and so many more exciting activities that it’s impossible to list them all.

Me trying to learn to paddle ava’a around the island of Tahiti. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Travelers planning a trip probably already know the basics of what to put on their Tahiti packing lists. After all, it’s a tropical island. All you need is a swimsuit, flip flops, and some reef-safe sunscreen.

Except…no. While the islands of Tahiti are certainly tropical, all those activities demand way more than just a cute swimsuit and a trendy sun visor. So what you’d pack for a luxurious stay in Maldives may not cut it for Tahiti. You need gear that can get wet and dry quickly, shoes and clothing that can navigate mud and super-strong sun, and perhaps even a few extra items to make sure you don’t accidentally drop your sunglasses off the side of a boat…trust me.

These are 10 things to add to your Tahiti packing list you may not have thought of, coming from someone who spent most of her time away from resorts and out in nature. While buying new is the best way to know what you buy won’t be damaged, scratched, or worn out, you may be able to find some of the items below on pre-owned shopping websites like REI Used Gear or Poshmark.

I spent most of my time in the Marquesas, a less-touristed and more outdoorsy island group in Tahiti. Photo: Suzie Dundas

We hope you love the gear we recommend. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. But we always recommend gear we’ve tested and used ourselves. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

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On the subject of hiking to amazing waterfalls, leave your heavy hiking shoes at home. Trails will often be wet and muddy, and you’ll want shoes you can keep on when you go