ISLE STYLE: WHAT TO PACK WHEN ISLAND HOPPING

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There's something about spring and summer that gives me the travel bug and a quick trip to a neighbor island is all I need to be cured. This time, Maui was at the top of my list as I was itching to get back to Paia, one of my favorite places to cruise around for that hippie-chic, small town vibe with awesome local shops (Letarte, Tamara Catz and Nuage Bleu to name just a few...).

While packing for my trip, I found my suitcase overflowing with unnecessary items (do I really need three pairs of sunglasses? Will I really wear wedges? No). As I sat on my bedroom floor surrounded by heaps of swimsuits, cover ups and denim cut-offs, I realized I needed to edit my options. I could not justify taking anything larger than a carry on for a 5-day beach getaway. Since I've made a career out of doing just that—editing—I narrowed down my list of what to pack when island hopping.

Island Hopper essentials // TheEditHawaii.com

Most of the clothing and accessories I ended up packing were multifunctional, jewelry was simple and accessories would work with a variety of outfits. Here's what's at the top of my packing list:

  • Swimsuit that doubles as a top (gold palm trees? I'll never get over this Beach Riot one-piece)
  • Classic pair of denim shorts (high-waisted is my current favorite style)
  • Sunnies that go with every outfit (cat-eye styles look good on most face shapes!)
  • Comfortable sandals you can take from day to night (espadrilles are also a good option) 
  • Large beach bag for your Mary Poppins moments
  • Statement beach towel 
  • Mermaid fins for snorkeling adventures
  • Travel-sized sunscreen (admittedly, my devotion to ACACIA runs deep)
  • Good book (Valley of the Dolls will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, I try to stay ahead of the game!)

SHOP THE EDIT

Beach Riot Golden Coconut One-Piece via BIKINI BIRD

Beach Riot Golden Coconut One-Piece via BIKINI BIRD

Billabong Denim Shorts via POIPU SURF

Billabong Denim Shorts via POIPU SURF

Safari Hat via ROBERTA OAKS

Safari Hat via ROBERTA OAKS

TOMS Bellini Sunglasses via WINGS HAWAII

TOMS Bellini Sunglasses via WINGS HAWAII

Sam Edelman Adora Sandals, similar styles at PERSIMMON BOUTIQUE

Sam Edelman Adora Sandals, similar styles at PERSIMMON BOUTIQUE

Samudra Oasis Bag

Samudra Oasis Bag

Ruebelle Turquoise Cuff 

Ruebelle Turquoise Cuff 

Pearl Love Jewelry Original Pearl Necklace

Pearl Love Jewelry Original Pearl Necklace

San Lorenzo Towel

San Lorenzo Towel

Da Fin via REBECCA BEACH

Da Fin via REBECCA BEACH

ACACIA by Epicuren Paradise Collection Sunscreen via THE LUCKY HONEY

ACACIA by Epicuren Paradise Collection Sunscreen via THE LUCKY HONEY

Valley of the Dolls book via AMAZON

Valley of the Dolls book via AMAZON