Traveling to Hawaii with a baby can be an amazing adventure – fun-filled family time with beautiful scenery as the perfect backdrop for making (and photographing) cherished memories. Of course, as with any time you travel with your little one, it’s always helpful to be flexible, resourceful, and intentional as you prepare for your Hawaii vacation to help create as smooth an experience as possible.
From packing essentials, selecting baby-friendly accommodations and restaurants, understanding airline policies, preparing for the flights, to planning your baby-friendly vacation, we’ll try to cover everything you need to know. We’ll also include tips for making the most of your Hawaiian getaway! So, whether you’re sunbathing on the beach or exploring vibrant local attractions, we’ve pulled together practical advice to help make your family trip enjoyable and stress-free.
Of course, since every child is different, not all these tips will apply, but we hope that some of these ideas will help you or inspire you while planning and traveling to Hawaii with your baby! If you have any baby travel advice, please make sure to comment below. We love collecting tips for all kinds of family travel!
Trip Preparations
Booking Your Flight
When preparing for a family trip to Hawaii, especially when traveling with an infant or toddler, it’s good to be a little flexible, even while keeping in mind your Plan A, B, and maybe C. Planning will also vary depending on where you’re traveling from, so be sure to check the actual travel hours and layover times, not just the time you leave and arrive. For example, when we lived in Minnesota, travel time could range from 10 to 12+ hours depending on if we had a direct flight or a layover or two. When we travel from East Asia to Hawaii on a direct flight, we often leave at night and arrive in the morning…of the same day (as in we go back a day); the actual flight time is usually from 9 to 11 hours.
TIP: If you’ve never traveled with your baby, it might be a good idea to try a mini-trip before your Hawaii vacation – either a long day trip or an overnight road trip to see how they handle being stationary for hours at a time or if they have a hard time settling in a hotel room. It will also help you test out if you want to bring bulkier items like a big stroller, pack-n-play, etc., or just rent these bigger items from a local vendor.
I’ve had many discussions about whether a family should take a direct flight or a flight with a layover(s) while traveling with little ones. I can honestly say that it really depends on your family, the child’s temperament, and/or the age of your children.
Before I had children, I used to hate layovers. However, once I started traveling long distances with my babies (both across the US and Asia), I grew to appreciate the breaks between long stretches of flight time. Since each child is different whether you want a layover or not is your choice – I’m just tossing out some ideas (and if you have 2+ kids with opposite personalities, I completely understand! LOL.) With my family, direct flights worked well when they were either non-mobile infants or 3+ (old enough to enjoy in-flight shows, timed snacks, and simple instructions). For mobile and active babies and young toddlers, I usually booked my flights with one layover as close to halfway as possible (coming from Minnesota, which was usually somewhere in California or Washington state) with at least 2 hours between flights. That gave me time to change their diapers, feed them, and let them run around as much as possible before the 2nd leg of our flight.
Nowadays, with all the canceled flights, delays, overbooked flights, and more, flying with babies and small children may have become even more complicated. It might be useful to keep these things in mind when you decide if layovers are a good option for you and your family.
TIP: If you are comfortable breastfeeding, I have found nursing to be my saving grace on airplane rides with infants. Nothing put my baby to sleep faster than boob food.
Many airlines offer the option for a free or discounted ticket for lap babies (an option for an infant under 2-years-old). Please check each airline’s policy for details. If you have that option, keep in mind the age of the baby and the child’s temperament, in addition to the costs involved. We usually took advantage of the lap baby option, but I also have many friends who bought their baby a seat and used their car seat for their flights since the babies were already used to being in one (and you’ll need it if you rent a car while on your Hawaii vacation). Many airlines do not require the baby to sit in a car seat while on the plane, but I’ve found it’s usually easier to keep them comfortable and safe while flying.
What to Pack for Your Baby
For general packing information, please check out our Hawaii vacation packing guide.
When traveling to Hawaii with a baby, packing the right baby gear can make all the difference for a smooth, stress-free family trip.
Essential items to consider may include:
- a travel crib
- a stroller
- a car seat
- sunscreen
- comfortable clothing that can be layered
TIP: Pack an extra outfit (or two) for both you and your baby in your carry-on. Spit-up and poopy blow-outs can happen anywhere, and nothing ruins the vacation vibe more than 8 hours in a poopy shirt (I mean yours too, not just the baby!).
To keep things simple, consider the following when packing:
- Comfortable Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable outfits that are easy to layer and quick to change. Hawaii has beautiful weather, but nights are sometimes cool and we have surprise bursts of rain, even when it’s sunny out!
- Baby Gear: A compact stroller (ideally with a basket) and a durable, lightweight carrier can make navigating the islands much easier. These essentials allow for flexibility during both outdoor adventures and urban explorations.
- Feeding Supplies: Don’t forget to include sippy cups, portable utensils, and plenty of snacks. Having familiar food options can help soothe a restless toddler during long waits.
- Diaper Supplies: If your child is potty-training, it may be a good idea to use a pull-up during flights since sometimes you are not able to use the restroom. Also, although stores like Target, Walmart, and CVS (Longs) are usually available, I recommend bringing a couple of days’ worth of diapers, wipes, diaper creams, and other essential baby toiletry items. So, you’re covered until you have time to make a trip to a store.
- Bring a Power Strip: Nowadays I pack power strips because all of us have too many electronic devices, but if you have various items that need charging, consider bringing a power strip with outlets and USB ports since not every hotel room has enough outlets.
- Know Which Island You’re Traveling to: Know the island and the location of the resort you’ll be visiting. If you’re going to Oahu, there are a ton of places to pick up additional supplies if you forget anything. However, if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort in Kohala on the Big Island, there are fewer places available to grab extra diapers, wipes, and baby foods.
When organizing checked baggage, using packing cubes to keep baby items separate and easily accessible is very convenient. This helps to maximize luggage space and ensures that you can quickly find necessary items without the hassle of rummaging through your luggage.
It is often the case that families with infants are prone to overpacking as well (or packing the wrong things) because a lot of us parents feel compelled to bring things “just in case.” Use your itinerary as a guide while packing for your trip so you aren’t bogged down with 10 unused outfits or a travel crib, pack-n-play, AND inflatable baby bed.
TIP: Consider renting baby gear instead of lugging all your home gear. This might prevent your favorite items from getting damaged during airplane travel as well as save your arms from having to carry all these items in and out of airports, taxis, and hotels. Some baby gear rental places also offer options for food and baby supply deliveries as well, but you may need to book everything in advance so book these things early!
What to Consider when Choosing Accommodations
Many hotels and resorts accommodate families with ease; however, some locations have additional amenities for families with young children. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, has, in addition to all the Disney-themed activities, beachfront access to Ko’olina Lagoons – four gentle, man-made beaches perfect for children and non-swimmers. Waikiki Hotels such as the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Royal Hawaiian have child-friendly pools and restaurants, as well as activities for the whole family. When looking over potential hotels, see if they offer discounted meals for toddlers or older babies, cribs, high chairs, age-appropriate activities, and/or a kid’s club.
Possible Items to Look for in a Hotel/Resort:
- Do they rent out cribs or bassinets? Is the room big enough to accommodate?
- Do they have a microwave in the room?
- Do they have a mini-fridge in the room?
- How close is the nearest Walmart / Target / Longs (affiliated with CVS) / etc.?
- Is there a bathtub?
- Are there activities for my child at the resort?
- Do the restaurants at the hotel or within the neighborhood offer free or discounted meals for children?
It also might be a good idea to consider aspects such as proximity to parks and beaches, meal planning options, and family activities. Hotels in Waikiki have great beaches for small children and beginner swimmers, are close to the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium, and are within walking distance of a variety of shops and restaurants. You can also take advantage of The Bus or Waikiki Trolley to visit Chinatown, Hanauma Bay, Sea Life Park, and more.
If you or your child have specific dietary restrictions or need special requests, make sure to communicate with the hotel staff or Concierge Desk so they can assist you.
Planning ahead of time and considering the location, amenities, and various needs of your family can help ensure an enjoyable, memorable, and stress-free vacation in paradise.
Check Airline Policies for Babies
When traveling with a baby, understanding airline policies beforehand can help you have a hassle-free experience during your flights to and from Hawaii. Different airlines have varying rules regarding checked baggage packing and carry-on items for infants, which can affect your travel expectations. Familiarize yourself with these policies ahead of time to avoid surprises at the airport.
Airline policies often include specific baggage allowances for infants that can significantly ease your journey. Most carriers allow parents to bring a diaper bag as a carry-on item in addition to standard luggage. Many airlines allow children under two years old to fly for free or at a reduced rate if sitting on their parent’s lap. In terms of seating options, many airlines allow families to reserve a bassinet on long-haul flights (limited by an infant’s weight and length). You’ll need to arrange these in advance so please check with your airline directly.
When traveling with a baby by airplane:
- Always double-check the specific airline’s guidelines ahead of time.
- Take advantage of pre-boarding privileges offered by many airlines for families traveling with young children.
- Utilize in-flight services such as baby meals when available.
Although you can’t always determine how your baby will react to a long airplane flight, planning can hopefully give you some peace of mind.
Traveling to Hawaii with a Baby
I have traveled with my children as young infants, toddlers, older children, teens, and a combination of everything in between – including a trip to Asia on my own with my 6-year-old, 4-year-old, and almost 2-year-old. Most of the time, despite setbacks out of our control – flight delays, flight cancellations, missing tickets, lost luggage – I have generally had positive experiences traveling with my children.
At the same time, I have had a baby cry non-stop for 2 hours, and I have been on an international flight where someone else’s 1-year-old cried for at least 6 hours of the 8-hour flight.
The bottom line is: do what you can to prepare, but know that sometimes stuff happens and, as you probably already know, that’s life with kids.
From preparing for the airport experience to managing expectations during the flight, it might be a good idea to do a mental walk-through to help figure out how to make the journey as smooth as possible for you and your little one.
How to Keep Your Baby Comfortable on the Plane
Keeping your baby comfortable on the plane trip to Hawaii can be achieved with a few considerations. From choosing the right clothes and packing necessary items to managing feeding and sleep schedules, these factors can significantly contribute to a more enjoyable flight experience. Being aware of airline policies regarding infants can also help you navigate the journey more smoothly.
To enhance the overall travel experience, consider bringing along a few of your toddler’s favorite toys and comfort items, as these can provide a sense of familiarity and security during the flight. Comfort items like blankets, plush toys, or even a beloved book can work wonders in soothing a restless child. Having a selection of snacks on hand can keep them occupied and happy; for your sake, choose items that are easy to manage and not too messy.
Some things to consider:
- Consider dressing your baby in easy-to-change, soft, simple clothing – complicated snaps and buttons or multi-layered pieces may be difficult to change in the airplane restroom cubicle.
- If possible, know when to feed your baby to help mitigate hunger-induced crying on the plane – for some that may mean feeding your baby just before boarding, for others, it may mean making snacks available as soon as you’re seated on the plane.
- If possible, time their naps to coincide with flight times.
- If the schedule allows, utilize layovers for quick breaks to let your child stretch and/or run around.
Ultimately, preparing as best you can usually put to rest most fears of traveling with small children. And, hey, even if there are challenges during the journey, you know you did what you could to make the trip as smooth as possible.
TIP: If your baby is fussy due to changes in altitude on planes and is too young for chewing gum to alleviate ear pressure pain, see if they can suck on a bottle, nurse, or use a pacifier when the plane is ascending or descending.
What to Expect at the Airport and During the Flight
Navigating the airport with a baby in tow can be an adventure, but knowing what to expect can make the experience less stressful for your flight to Hawaii. From security checks to boarding processes, familiarize yourself with airline policies that specifically pertain to traveling with infants and small children to streamline your airport experience. Being prepared for potential baby-related situations and having a plan can also help alleviate stress as you board your flight.
It’s essential to allow extra time for each stage of the airport experience. Begin with the check-in process; many airlines offer family-friendly procedures that accommodate parents traveling with infants, such as priority boarding.
Make sure to have all essential items easily accessible, like diapers and snacks, to minimize delays. If you’re using a baby carrier or stroller, you often have to remove the baby when going through the security check.
- Check-in: Use online check-in services if possible to save time.
- Security: Expect to take out baby food and milk during screening.
- Boarding: Take advantage of family boarding, which usually happens before general boarding begins.
- In–Flight: If you can, try sleeping or resting when your baby sleeps; it might help you keep a clear head once you arrive in Hawaii, even if your baby is fussy or jetlagged.
Consider bringing a lightweight stroller or baby carrier to assist you in navigating through the terminal. Being equipped for unexpected occurrences, such as diaper changes or sudden fussiness, can make even potentially stressful situations a lot easier to manage.
How to Handle Jet Lag with a Baby
Handling jet lag with a baby after arriving in Hawaii can be a challenge; having some strategies in place might ease the adjustment for both you and your baby.
To help effectively tackle jet lag for your baby, consider these strategies:
- Gradual Adjustment: Start shifting your baby’s sleep schedule a few days before departure. Gradually moving bedtime closer to the destination’s time will ease the transition.
- Natural Light: Upon arrival, expose your baby to natural sunlight during the day to help reset their internal clock. This is especially important in the morning hours.
- Meal Timing: Serving meals according to the new local time can signal to your baby’s body that it’s time to adjust. Staying consistent with mealtimes will help reinforce this new schedule.
- Calming Environment: Once settled in your accommodation, create a sleep-inducing atmosphere by dimming the lights and reducing noise levels. This tranquility encourages deeper sleep.
Finding and implementing these kinds of strategies can help both you and your baby adjust to Hawaii Time faster so you can all enjoy your Hawaii vacation from Day 1.
TIP: More people experience jet lag traveling from west to east. For most US travelers, you’ll be traveling east to west when traveling to Hawaii, so jet lag going on your vacation to Hawaii might not be too bad (but on the flip side, it might be more difficult as you head back home going east).
Exploring Hawaii with a Baby
Exploring Hawaii with a baby can be an enriching experience for the entire family while exploring the sights and sounds of the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii has numerous destinations you can enjoy with your young children – from stroller-friendly hikes and walking paths, beautiful beaches, to family-friendly events and activities, your family has a lot of options to consider when vacationing in Hawaii.
Best Places to Visit with a Baby in Hawaii
When planning your family trip, knowing the best places to visit with a baby in Hawaii can enhance your experience and create lasting memories. It’s a good idea to research the island(s) you’re planning to visit and see what’s available and also what you’re willing to do with a baby or young child in tow. On Oahu, destinations like the Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo, or Waikiki Beach offer baby-friendly activities and calm waters for you and your young child to explore and play. Sea Life Park and Polynesian Cultural Center also offer a full day of activities for toddlers and older children. In addition, many hotels in Waikiki and Disney’s Aulani also offer in-house activities for children as well.
On the island of Maui, the Maui Ocean Center offers interactive exhibits designed for young children, ensuring that little ones are both entertained and engaged.
Most shopping centers and tourist areas in Hawaii provide the following:
- changing tables
- nursing spaces near restrooms
- children’s play areas
If you are interested in hiking with your child, Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail offers a paved path perfect for strollers with amazing ocean and southside. During the winter, we have even caught whales shooting water through their blowholes too! However, please note that there are restrooms on site.
Check out our list of easy and child-friendly hikes to see if any might work for you and your family.
If you have an infant comfortable in a carrier (and you are willing to wear it!), it’s possible to do most activities that adults or families with older children can do – hiking, visiting historic sites and museums, exploring botanical gardens, and more. Of course, it will depend on your baby’s temperament – with our oldest, we just put him in a carrier and went everywhere with him.
TIP: If you plan to visit Hanauma Bay or Diamond Head Trail, please note that you’ll need to register and pay for entrance fees online in advance. Many times, especially during heavier tourist seasons, reservations may be booked a couple of weeks in advance.
How to Keep Your Baby Safe in the Sun and Water
Keeping your baby safe in the sun and water is paramount to ensuring a fun and enjoyable Hawaii family vacation. It’s important to apply sunscreen regularly on both you and your baby – the UV rays are quite strong in Hawaii. In addition, make sure everyone stays hydrated to prevent heat or sunstroke.
Hawaii has regulations on what kinds of sunscreens are available for purchase on the islands – this is to protect our coral reefs and marine life from damage caused by certain chemicals found in popular sunscreens. Because of this, Hawaii offers a lot of skin-friendly, baby-friendly options that usually have fewer chemicals and stronger SPF protection. If you already have sunscreen purchased at home, you can bring it to the islands, however, please note that certain chemicals are already causing significant damage to our island sea life and some of these sunscreens might add to the problem – try to avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone or octinoxate. If you do bring sunscreens from home, please make sure they are SPF 50 or higher. Lower SPF sunscreens are simply not strong enough to protect your skin from Hawaii’s UV rays. Also, make sure to reapply sunscreen at least every 1.5 to 2 hours.
For more information about sunscreens and Hawaii, please check out our article on reef-safe sunscreens.
If you plan to be outdoors all day, make sure to monitor your baby for signs of heat exhaustion; this may include symptoms such as excessive fussiness, lethargy, or unusual skin color. Seek medical care if necessary.
TIP: It is usually recommended to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day – the hottest times of the day in Hawaii are generally from 10 AM to 4 PM. << Okay, this advice always frustrated me, I mean 10 AM to 4 PM is ALL DAY! Practically speaking, I would do a mix of activities during the day, where I can spend some time in the shade, a building, or a car and then just reapply sunscreen before stepping outside – e.g. a hike outdoors, then an indoor restaurant for lunch, followed by a visit to Pearl Harbor Memorial where there are both indoor and outdoor activities.
Here are some suggestions to keep baby (and family) sun-safe:
- Hydrate: Always offer plenty of fluids—breast milk or formula for infants, and water or electrolyte solutions for older babies.
- Safe Swimming Practices: Invest in a baby swim vest or floaties to support your little one and never leave them unattended near water. If you are not a good swimmer, go to shallow, calm beaches – Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park & Magic Island, Ko’olina Lagoons.
- Apply and Re-Apply Sunscreen: If you are in the water, remember that the reflective surface intensifies UV ray exposure. When at the beach or pool, reapply sunscreen every hour to prevent severe sunburns (even with regular sunscreen applications, people with fair skin may still turn pink or flushed due to Hawaii’s intense UV rays, we just don’t want you turning into a lobster 🦞.)
By being vigilant and proactive, families can significantly reduce risks, making those sun-kissed moments truly enjoyable.
For more information on Hawaii safety tips, please check out our article on practical safety tips to utilize while on your Hawaii vacation.
Where to Find Baby-Friendly Services in Hawaii
Help can come in all forms and finding baby-friendly amenities in Hawaii can significantly ease the experience of traveling with a baby. Take advantage of baby gear rentals, family-friendly activities, and other baby-friendly goods and services to help make your Hawaii vacation more relaxing and stress-free.
Utilize Hawaii’s baby and family-friendly goods and services:
- Rental Services: Look for companies that specialize in baby gear rentals. They offer items such as cribs, highchairs, and toys to ensure families have everything needed without the hassle of bringing it all. Some also offer grocery and product deliveries too!
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Many eateries are accommodating to families, providing high chairs, kids’ menus, and diaper-changing facilities. Call ahead or check online reviews for recommendations.
- Local Attractions: Research attractions and locations with things such have shaded areas, stroller-friendly paths, child play areas, and facilities for feeding and changing.
Planning will help you maximize the services available (since some require reservations) and minimize the stress of last-minute arrangements, making a more enjoyable experience for the entire family.
Baby Gear Rentals
Baby gear rentals in Hawaii offer convenience and flexibility for families traveling with infants and toddlers, allowing you to travel light and enjoy your family trip without the hassle of bringing all the bulky items from home.
Look to Yelp for a list of recommended baby rental gear options and reviews. Although many of these were not available when my children were babies (plus, I have family in Hawaii to house certain items), there are now a variety of vendors offering gear rental, personal shopping, and more. Let them provide the gear and baby goods you need so you can truly enjoy your vacation!
TIP: In addition to baby gear, consider rental services if you’re planning on snorkeling, surfing, stand-up paddle-boarding, or anything that requires additional equipment.
Utilizing local rental services not only supports the local economy but also contributes to a more sustainable travel experience by reducing waste from unnecessary one-time purchases left behind after the vacations are over (this happens often).
Tips for a Smooth Trip with a Baby
Parenting is often a balance of expectation vs reality. However, despite what additional adventures might come up with having a baby on board, I have always been a firm believer of planning what we want to do, knowing that a fussy baby, sunburnt Momma, or poopy blow-out might derail even the best laid plans. Usually, when traveling to Hawaii, some planning is needed since a few favorite tourist sites may require advanced reservations. It might also be a good idea to have a few child-friendly food spots and activities penciled in beforehand, so you don’t have to Google search these items when you’re hangry or in a rush to leave the hotel. Having a plan for emergencies can also provide peace of mind while exploring the islands.
Where to Find Baby-Friendly Restaurants
When traveling with younger children in Hawaii, I have found most restaurants and eateries to be friendly and accommodating for families with small children. If there are any “less accommodating” locations, it’s usually space and logistics that make it so, not the people – for example, I recently went to a popular place in Haleiwa, and they only had ONE highchair in the entire restaurant. Part of the reason, however, was because it was just a small venue. In fact, even navigating the space with a stroller was a little tricky if we didn’t want to block the waitstaff from delivering food to tables. In the end it worked out for us because my 1-year-old niece really enjoys – and will happily wait for – food, but I could see it being an issue if you had a wiggly toddler.
In any case, finding baby or family-friendly restaurants just depends on what you’re looking for: highchairs, chicken nuggets on the menu, special menus just for children, or just a place that can fit a full-sized stroller with a hungry baby, etc.
Overall, Hawaii’s diverse culinary scene includes many options that cater to families traveling with babies. If your baby can eat table food (i.e. eat what you eat), most restaurants have a variety of options, however, if you need to heat food that you’ve brought, I’d call or check in advance. When in doubt, I highly encourage checking the menus online, looking at reviews, or giving them a call.
TIP: Due to Hawaii’s variety of cultural foods, another concern would be if you or your baby have specific allergies. We have shellfish and nut allergies in our family and it’s something we must check into no matter where we travel. If you have food allergy concerns, make sure you check in advance whether the restaurants have options to fit those needs. Most popular eateries and chains will have clear menus with dietary indicators and allergens listed, but some true hole-in-the wall locations (as in not frequented by tourists) may not have things as well labeled. This is from personal experiences.
How to Manage Feeding and Napping Schedules
In our experience, when traveling with a baby, I had to always remember that we couldn’t necessarily do the fast-paced, light nights type of travel that I was used to as a single or new married person…unless I wanted a full-blown meltdown somewhere during our trip. Ha.
For younger babies, managing feeding and napping may be as simple as nursing or bottle-feeding them between places you’re visiting and just allowing the baby to nap against you in their carrier. However, if you or your baby would prefer resting in a cool hotel room or eating at a table, then establishing a schedule for your trip and having a list of go-to restaurants might be a good idea to keep everyone happy and comfortable.
Here are some things to consider:
- Factor in Time Zones: Adjust your baby’s feeding and napping times gradually before departure to ease the transition. This can prevent potential meltdowns and help everyone adjust more smoothly upon arrival.
- Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt your schedule based on activities. If you plan to explore a popular attraction, try to coincide naps with travel time or downtime in shaded areas.
- Pack Essentials: Don’t forget snacks and comfortable sleeping gear. Bringing familiar items can create a home-like environment that encourages rest.
Babies are usually pretty resilient, and they just might adjust faster than you expect! If not, don’t worry! Soon, all of you will be adjusted and ready to explore the beautiful tropical Hawaiian scenery together.
What to Do in Case of Emergencies
It can be frightening when you’re far from home and you encounter an emergency situation while on vacation. Being prepared for emergencies while traveling is crucial so that you have the documents and information you need if ever an emergency should arise. Have a list of emergency contacts (someone traveling with you and someone at home), familiarize yourself with local healthcare options, know how to ask your hotel for help if you need a first aid kit, and keep your documents in a safe place. Knowing where to go and who to contact in case of emergencies can provide peace of mind during your vacation.
When traveling with infants and children, it’s probably a good idea to keep a basic first aid kit with you, along with a list of emergency contacts, allergies, and any important health conditions. Ensure that your first aid kit is stocked with vital supplies such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, infant pain relievers, and any medications your baby may require. Knowing the nearest medical facilities and their operating hours can make all the difference in stressful situations.
In case an emergency arises, it might be a good idea to have this information on hand:
- Personal Information: Include personal medical information, such as allergies and chronic conditions, as well as emergency contacts and medical insurance information.
- Travel Insurance: It may be a good idea to consider travel insurance, there are a variety of low-cost options that can supplement your current insurance.
- Hospitals and Urgent Cares: If you have family members with chronic conditions or allergies, it may be a good idea to jot down the nearest hospitals and urgent care facilities near your location (or around the island if you’ll be traveling much.)
Even if you don’t have any medical conditions, simple things like a jellyfish sting, getting cut by coral, or catching a cold or the flu, might lead to a doctor or hospital visit, so at least keeping important information nearby is a good preventative measure. By taking these steps, families can navigate any health-related hiccups with confidence and ensure a fun, worry-free experience in Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick List of My Top Fave Baby/Child Clothing Stores (Oahu)
If you’re looking for a few Hawaii-themed or print clothing or toys here are some places that have fun local designs.
- Growing Keiki in Haleiwa, Oahu
- Taj Clubhouse at Ward Centre in Honolulu, Oahu
- Wimini Hawaii in Honolulu, Oahu
- Uniqlo Hawaii at Ala Moana Shopping Center in Honolulu, Oahu << Uniqlo in Hawaii has local designs too!
Online Store: Coco Moon
What are some quick tips for traveling to Hawaii with babies?
- Baby Supplies: You can pack diapers and wipes for your Hawaii vacation; I sometimes do this because then I’ll have space to bring back things I buy in Hawaii. However, most of the time, you won’t have to. It will depend on if you’re renting a car and where your hotel is located. If you’re on Oahu, there are Walgreens, Longs (CVS), Target, and Walmart stores all over the island. If you have a car, you can order and pick up supplies on your way to the hotel. I would ask your hotel if there is an option to ship items directly to your room. You may want to bring supplies from home if your accommodations are in a rural area or specific resort complexes. Secluded resorts are often gorgeous and all-inclusive regarding food and entertainment, but the stores nearby can be unnecessarily expensive for baby supplies. Several baby gear delivery services have baby and grocery deliveries, but you must schedule those in advance.
- Favorite Gear: My favorite gear for traveling is my Ergo carrier and a quick-fold stroller (preferably with a basket). I would often use these items exclusively while visiting Hawaii or exploring various locations around the islands. **NOTE: Bring or rent an age-appropriate child or booster seat if you rent a car for your Hawaiian vacation with a baby or child. It’s a Department of Transportation regulation.
- Must-Have Item: Sunscreen. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect your baby’s delicate skin from the intense Hawaiian sun. I would also consider UV protective clothing to protect their arms and legs if you plan to do many outdoor activities.
- Don’t Start New Things: DO NOT start things like potty training, nighttime sleep training, or anything extra that may further disrupt the baby’s schedule before your vacation. An 8-hour flight and 2-week vacation is probably not the time to stop breastfeeding, start potty training, or take away a pacifier.
Are there any specific safety precautions I should take when traveling to Hawaii with a baby?
- Sunscreen & UV Protective Clothing: If you haven’t noticed, I’m going to strongly bring up sun care safety over and over. I have seen too many infants with unnecessary, sometimes painful sunburns because their parents don’t exercise proper sun protection care.
- Practice Water Safety: Never leave your infants or children alone in the water. Even if they are in a floatation device, DO NOT LET GO. Even gentle currents can sweep an inflatable ball, raft, or floatie out to sea if you’re not careful. In addition, waves, even small ones, can knock down a baby sitting on the sand near the water.
- Stay hydrated: Stay hydrated and keep your baby hydrated to prevent any heat-related illnesses. Hawaii is hot but not usually too humid, so the weather can be deceiving because of Hawaii’s trade winds. With children who play outdoor sports, this is frequently the cause of dehydration – the wind is refreshing so no one realizes they are becoming dehydrated until they feel a little sick (heat stroke).
What are some ways to make traveling with a baby to Hawaii more enjoyable?
- Be Flexible: Depending on your baby’s age and temperament, you may be able to do everything you want on your Hawaii vacation, or you may have to compromise. It’s okay. Part of traveling with your baby is to take the time to enjoy Hawaii and share it with your family.
- Plan for Breaks: Make sure to take the time to rest – for baby and yourself. It’s not always easy trying to remember everything for everyone and that can take a toll on your vacation experience as well. Plan for breaks!
- Vacation Rentals: If you would like a little more privacy or access to a fridge, microwave, stove top, etc., then consider renting a vacation rental instead of a hotel room. You’ll often have more space for the baby and more flexibility with food since you’ll have access to a kitchenette or kitchen.
Is it necessary to bring a car seat when traveling to Hawaii with a baby?
- It is required by law for all children under 4 to have a proper car seat in all motorized vehicles. Whether you’re taking a taxi, ride-share, or renting a car, if you are in a vehicle, your child will need a car seat. If you do not want to bring your own, several local baby gear rental sites offer up-to-date car seats and other baby gear. You will need to reserve everything in advance, especially if you’re visiting during a high tourist season.
*Usually, buses or shuttles to and from the hotel do not require a car or booster seat but you will need to hold the child in your lap.
- If you plan on renting a car, many car rental companies will provide car seats for an additional fee, but you should check to see if it is the proper size for your child. You can also rent baby gear, including car seats, from local baby gear rental companies but you will need to schedule this in advance, more so during high tourist seasons.
