Recent Travel Tips
Tips are ordered from most recent to the oldest. You can also pick an island above to explore travel tips per island.
Packing Light Can Save Time
Checked baggage can add almost 2 hours to your flight time and prevents flexibility (such as traveling standby). Try packing everything you will absolutely need into carry on luggage and you will save yourself the stress of wondering if your checked baggage made it or not.
Check for Dents & Scratches
When renting a car, try to always inspect the automobile and make sure you record any dents, dings or scratches before leaving the lot so you don't get charged when you return the vehicle. Recording a short video on your digital camera as you walk around the car will work as added backup.
Duty Free Shopping
If you are an international traveler to Hawaii, check out the duty free shops on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. DFS Galleria is the only place in Hawaii to enjoy tax-free and duty-free savings on the world's leading luxury brands.
Ship Home
To save time, money, and the hassle of luggage consider shipping your purchases home. Some businesses and hotels will even assist you with shipping. Ask before you buy that Wyland painting.
Extra Bag for Shopping Adventures
If you plan on shopping on your trip to bring home island gifts or a new summer wardrobe, pack light enough to have one or more bags empty and available for use on your return trip. It beats having to buy extra luggage bags at the last minute.
Dressing for Travel
Most people that vacation in Hawaii don't bring cold weather clothes with them. All you really need are shorts, tshirts, sandals, and swimwear. However, bring a sweatshirt with you for air travel since usually the air conditioning is turned on aboard the airplane and can make for a chilly flight.
Renting out that convertible
If you're on a budget, but you want to drive in style with something fancy like a Mustang convertible or Jeep Wrangler, try upgrading when you hit up the rental car place at your destination. Rent cheap and then upgrade to save money. The only downside is the car you want might be unavailable.
Lodging upon arrival
If you are traveling during a slow season (meaning during those months when kids are in school and college students are busy studying:) it is easy to find a hotel room while you are already in Honolulu..I am talking about very nice hotels. They are available due to the last minute cancellations.