Ultimate Bora Bora Packing List
Jetting off to French Polynesia? You’ll need our Ultimate Bora Bora Packing list!
So you’re jetting off to Bora Bora and the paradise islands of French Polynesia? We couldn’t be more excited for you and we hope you’ll find it as enchanting as we do!
Soon you’ll be hopping on a flight from Tahiti to the sun-kissed shores of the motus of Bora Bora, the iconic, emerald-embraced isles. A paradise of cerulean seas and gentle breezes beckons!
But before you dive into your idyllic retreat, we’ve got everything you need to know. From chic swimwear to essential gadgets, this guide is your trusty companion to curate the perfect suitcase.
Let’s get packed with our Ultimate Bora Bora Packing List.
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What to know about Bora Bora weather
As you plan your hazy days of Bora Bora honeymoon bliss, you probably imagine a world where the sun reigns supreme, painting the sky in hues of endless blue.
Bora Bora enjoys a climate that’s quintessentially tropical, presenting a calendar split into two primary seasons: the sun-drenched dry season and the sometimes rain-kissed wet season.
The dry season, from May to October, the island revels under clear, blue skies and is caressed by soft, cooling breezes, with temperatures averaging a pleasant 28°C (82°F).
With the arrival of November, Bora Bora ushers in its rainy season. This time is marked by more frequent rainfall, bringing with it a warmer, more humid atmosphere, with temperatures usually resting at about 30°C (86°F).
Showers tend to be quick, leaving behind a refreshed and vibrant landscape. Extreme weather events, while not impossible, are a rarity in Bora Bora. Cyclones can occur.
It’s not unusual for the dry season to experience its share of tropical showers.
The things you shouldn’t add to your Bora Bora Packing List
When choosing what to pack for Bora Bora, it’s just as important to know what to leave behind on your Tahiti packing list!
Here are a few things to leave off your Bora Bora packing list:
Warm clothes – Leave heavy clothing off your Bora Bora packing list as the tropical climate means you won’t need thick clothing. Even when the tropical rains arrive, it’s still warm!
Heeled shoes – High heels and formal shoes are rarely needed, so leave these off your Bora Bora packing list. The islands’ relaxed vibe makes such footwear kind of unnecessary. If you need a heel, opt for a block heel.
Gadgets – While your camera, e-reader and smartphone might be essential items on your Bora Bora packing list, avoid overloading your luggage with too many electronic devices. Embrace the chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the French Polynesia.
Too many products – The humid climate can make heavy makeup uncomfortable, so add your most paired back products to your Bora Bora packing list.
Expensive jewellery – avoid your own Kim Kardashian moment and leave valuable or sentimental pieces at home. Although of course, wear your engagement and wedding rings – just make sure they’re not loose.
The Ultimate Bora Bora Packing List
Essentials
Most nationalities do not need to get a visa prior to arrival for French Polynesia. Proof of your return flight should be sufficient for the immigration authorities. Your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ that is at least 6 months after the date you leave French Polynesia.
Most documents are electronic now, so make sure you can have your boarding pass or e-ticket on your phone along with your transfer and hotel confirmation.
Some travel vaccinations are recommended for French Polynesia. We encourage you to visit the Centers for Disease Control website for up-to-date travel vaccination recommendations or speak to a Tropical Medicine Specialist.
You don’t need to bring lots of cash to French Polynesia, and you can get the local currency (French Pacific franc (XPF) at the airport.
If you bring cash, € euro and US$ dollars in small bills is best and they should be fresh, undamaged notes.
The FP Franc is pegged to the Euro. Although Euro and Dollar notes are widely accepted in shops, you don’t get a great exchange rate so opt for currency exchange at the bank or pay with card.
Let your bank know you’re travelling and check if there is anything you need to do to avoid issues using your card abroad.
Tipping is not compulsory or expected but it is appreciated for good service.
- Passports
- Travel Documents / Confirmations
- Tickets, Boarding passes + Vouchers
- Visa & Entry Requirements Information
- Travel insurance details
- Travel Vaccination Certificate
- Padi Scuba Diving Card (if relevant)
- Emergency contact numbers
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Driver’s licence
- Local currency
- Money wallet/belt
Clothing & Accessories
You’ll spend most of your honeymoon in Bora Bora in swimwear, so pack an array of swimsuits, bikinis and some chic beach cover-ups like kaftans.
Pack your favourite sunglasses (and some extra pairs!) – an essential addition to your Bora Bora packing list.
Add some light summer dresses or shorts and tops such as vests / tank tops and t-shirts for lunches and cute dresses / playsuits to your Bora Bora packing list for evenings.
For men, some long linen style trousers are ideal for night time dining.
We mentioned that you should leave the heels at home, but some cute flip flops/thongs, sliders and chic sandals are a must.
Add a sun hat and a cute beach bag (we love this monogrammed one – you can get your married initial)
The sun in Bora Bora is hot so we’d recommend covering up with a rash guard during the day when you’re out in the lagoon and don’t forget to pick up some water shoes / aqua shoes for snorkelling adventures as the coral can be sharp.
Pack some comfy clothes for the plane – athleisure wear, sneakers, scarves, socks.
Gym lovers may want to bring their gear. Although, we’d recommend a barefoot jog along the beach and sunrise yoga or pilates instead of
hitting the gym!
Bring your own chic beach towel. We love our Dock and Bay quick-dry towels which are compact and come in an array of cute insta-worthy colours.
However, resorts provide beach towels, so it’s OK if you need to leave behind because your Bora Bora packing list is already overflowing.
You may want to go hiking and exploring. Sneakers should do the job unless you’re doing some challenging trails. Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket.
- Evening Dresses
- Summer Dresses
- Skirts / Shorts
- Leggings
- T-shirts
- Blouses / Shirts
- Vests / Tank Tops
- Swimwear – bikinis / swimsuits
- Beachwear – kaftans / cover-ups
- Light knitwear / cover-ups
- Flat evening footwear
- Flip Flops / Thongs / Sliders
- Sandals
- Trainers / Sneakers
- Socks / Tights / Hosiery
- Bras
- Briefs / Panties
- Shapewear
- Other lingerie
- Nightwear
- Scarves
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Belts
- Day bag
- Evening bag
- Necklaces / Chains
- Bracelets / Bangles
- Rings
- Earrings
- Watch
- Beach Bag
- Beach Towel
- Activewear
Personal Care
Personal care is just that, personal! So take what you need from this section to add to your Bora Bora packing list.
For example, you may love your own hair dryer, but your over water bungalow will have one, so there may not be a need to bring your own.
One of the most important things to add to your Bora Bora packing list is reef friendly sunscreen. Sun Bum is our top pick.
If you haven’t got a hanging toiletries travel bag, then now is the time. These hang-on-door bags are simply the best.
- Reusable cotton pads
- Cotton buds / Q-tips
- Face Cloths / Body Cloths or Brushes
- Cleanser
- Toners / Serums / Face masks / Oils
- Moisturiser
- Face SPF
- Body Wash / Shower Gel
- Body Lotion
- Body SPF
- Aftersun Aloe Vera Lotion
- Deodorant
- Perfumes
- Shampoo
- Conditioner / Hair Masks
- Styling products
- Hair Dryer
- Hair Straightener / Curlers
- Hair Brushes / Combs
- Hair ties / pins / clips
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Floss / Interdental brushes
- Mouthwash
- Razors / hair removal products
- SPF lip balm
- Hand Lotion
- Nail File
- Nail clippers
- Nail Oil
- Tweezers
- Eyedrops
- Feminine hygiene
- Tissues
- Massage Oils / Lubricant
- Toiletries Bag
- Clear travel liquids bags
Healthcare
Healthcare is another personal aspect of creating your Bora Bora packing list, so add what you need.
There are health facilities on Bora Bora for anything minor and there are hospitals on the main islands like Tahiti.
It’s essential to have travel insurance in place when you’re travelling. We don’t want to sound gloomy, but you need cover in case you fall seriously ill.
If you don’t have travel insurance, check out World Nomads to learn more.
World Nomads provide travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance from World Nomads.
Mosquitos are prevalent in French Polynesia including the Aedes mosquito which can carry Zika Virus.
Add all your top anti-mosquito products to your Bora Bora packing list! We bring DEET, Avon Skin So Soft Dry Oil, a Bite Pen, insect repellent bracelets. Whatever works for you in terms of mosquito repellent products should be on your Bora Bora packing list!
- Contraception / Birth Control
- Vitamins & Supplements
- Bandaids
- Pain relief – aspirin/paracetamol
- Hand Sanitiser/Antibacterial wipes
- Insect repellent / DEET / Bite Pen
- Travel sickness medication
- Antihistamine
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Prescription medications
- Contact lenses/glasses
Cosmetics
We mentioned to just pack your most ‘barely there’ look as Bora Bora is hot and you’ll be spending a lot of time in the warm lagoons of the Pacific Ocean!
However, for our gals who like to get glam and who need to bring their essentials, here’s our handy list so you don’t forget your favourite makeup products.
- Make-up Bag
- Micellar Water
- Primers
- Foundation
- Concealer
- Highlighter
- Contour
- Powder
- Blushes
- Eyeshadows
- Eye Liners
- Mascara
- Brow products
- Lip Liner, Lipsticks & Lipgloss
- Make-up Brushes
Electronics
Most Bora Bora resorts use French style plugs and some will even have US and the voltage is 220V. A universal travel plug adapter is an essential addition to your Bora Bora packing list. This one with handy USB connections is our top pick.
Many couples just use their smartphone for photography but Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful honeymoon destinations in the world so if you have a camera, bring it. We have the Sony ZV1.
A waterproof phone cover or full underwater camera casing or a GoPro will be one of the best things to add to your Bora Bora packing list, too. You can get those amazing underwater shots.
Selfie sticks may feel a little silly but we still think it’s the best way to get that perfect image without getting other people involved. If you want to feel less conspicuous opt for a Gorilla pod instead.
Thinking about bringing a drone or living your best influencer life? For beginners, the DJI Mini drone is best. However, in French Polynesia there are strict laws and you must have a permit which has strict use.
Most resorts have a no drone policy for privacy issues. Unless you work as content creators then it might not be worth it.
Hopefully you will spend a lot of time relaxing in paradise so add your Apple AirPods or your favourite headphones to your Bora Bora packing list (and don’t forget to make a honeymoon playlist!).
Physical books are our favourite so bring at least one must-read (get some of the best honeymoon books here!)
If you’re big readers like us, then load up your Kindle with all the books you’ve been meaning to read.
If you have a lot of cables, then consider this chic travel case to keep them tidy.
- Universal plug adapters
- Camera + SD cards + battery/ charger
- Drone + SD + battery / charger
- Smartwatch + charger
- Phone + charger + power bank
- Headphones
- Laptop or Tablet + charger
- E-Reader + charger
- Travel speakers + charger
Miscellaneous
All the other things you may or may not need to add to your Bora Bora packing list!
There’s so many great suitcase brands out there but we love classic luggage from luggage from Samsonite. Don’t forget an Apple AirTag, the best luggage tracker to add to your Bora Bora packing list (in case the worst happens!).
We’re total over packers but if you’re planning an island hopping or multi destination honeymoon, to stay organised, get some packing cubes.
They’re just so good if you don’t want to unpack everything. Don’t forget TSA approved locks for your luggage.
You could bring an iron or steamer but why spend your time in the Bora Bora ironing clothes?
A dry bag can be handy to keep any essentials away from the water when you’re snorkelling.
Snorkelling or scuba diving gear? Snorkel and dive centres in Bora Bora provide all the necessary equipment. However, some couples might prefer to bring their own for hygiene reasons.
Let’s talk about alcohol. There is no doubt by most standards, a honeymoon in Bora Bora (or Moorea and Tahiti) is not cheap. As a remote island nation, almost everything is more expensive here.
If you like a drink, maximise your duty free allowance (2 litres per person).
Pick up some bottles of your favourite liquor so you can make a cocktail in your overwater bungalow.
Also pack some snacks. Nuts, dried fruit etc. Even snacks are expensive and if you’re in a resort with overwater bungalows, it’s not so convenient to just pop to a supermarket as they’re on their own island/motu.
- Suitcases
- Air Tag / Luggage Tracker
- Packing Cubes
- Luggage locks
- Sewing kit
- Fans
- Pens / Notebook or Honeymoon Journal
- Dry Bag
- Wet bag
For the flight
You’re likely travelling from afar to get to Tahiti so make sure you’re comfy, particularly if you’re flying economy.
- Travel blanket / Pillow – we have this 2 in 1 blanket and pillow which we love and it handily slips on to your cabin suitcase.
- Eye Mask
- Ear plugs
- Flight Socks
- Deck of cards
- Books or Magazines
- Snacks
Sustainable Bora Bora packing list tips
In an effort to preserve the pristine environment and make your Bora Bora honeymoon more sustainable – consider reducing the number of single-use plastics in your packing list for Bora Bora.
Some useful things to pack:
- Reusable water bottle
- Reusable Cotton pads
- Reusable straws for coconut drinks
- Crystal nail file
- Menstrual cups
Tap water is considered safe to drink in resorts and in most places on the most popular islands in French Polynesia. You may prefer to drink bottled water which is available everywhere.
However it means using a lot of plastic bottles! Consider a Grayl water filtration and purification travel bottle. These are just genius as it means you can purify any water on the go. For us they’re an essential addition to any packing list, not just a Bora Bora packing list!
Want to get our full downloadable packing list bundle which includes an outfit planner and a checklist? Visit the shop and add code BORABORA to get our full honeymoon packing list bundle for just $5!
We hope our ultimate Bora Bora packing list has made getting ready for your dream honeymoon a lot easier. Is there anything we’ve missed? Let us know!
Happy Packing x
Related French Polynesia honeymoon articles:
Ultimate Honeymoon Guide for Bora Bora
Ultimate French Polynesia Islands Honeymoon Guide
Bora Bora All Inclusive Resorts – Are they a thing?
Bora Bora or Maldives – which is best for your honeymoon?
Places (kinda) like Bora Bora around the globe
Honeymoon Planning resources
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