A tropical paradise, known for its crystal-clear water and white beaches, the Maldives Islands are a fantastic destination for water sports, sightseeing, or just relaxing. This packing list for the Maldives lists all the essentials you’ll need, so you can enjoy your trip to the full.
Aerial shot of beaches in the Maldives © Rahuljoshi10 | CC BY-SA 4.0
The Maldives are made up of many small islands, and you may take boat trips or short flights to reach certain resorts. The best advice is always to pack light if possible. It also helps to be clear about how you are likely to fill your time and to pack around these activities, rather than trying to plan for every possible eventuality. Having the right gear will help you to fully enjoy the beauty of the Maldives while staying comfortable and safe.
Preparing For Your Trip To The Maldive Islands
These are the essentials to focus on in the three months or so before you plan to travel.
- Passport – Check your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your trip is due to finish. You can also be refused entry with a damaged passport, so consider a passport cover to keep it safe.
- Book Flights – Book any flights around 3 months before you leave with a comparison site like Skyscanner. You may be required to show proof of return when you first arrive, so carry a print out of all tickets.
- Reserve Accommodation – Prices change according to a number of factors but, like transportation, costs will be cheaper if you book at least 3 months in advance. Find the best prices for accommodation in the Maldives at Booking.com.
- Arrange Airport Transfers – Check a transport site like 12Go for onward routes, prices, and timetables once you’ve first arrived at the airport. Having this kind of thing organised in advance can save a lot of stress and hassle after a long flight.
- Confirm and double check all flight and accommodation details, including times and layovers, to make sure the timetables match and that any transit plans are actually possible.
- Do I Need A Visa For The Maldives? – Most visitors to the Maldives are granted a 30-day on arrival, provided they have a machine-reader passport, confirmed accommodation, and return ticket. See the official Maldives immigration site for the most up-to-date information.
- Research The Country In addition to planning where to go and what to do, it pays to understand something of the history, culture, customs and etiquette of the Maldives. A well-established guide book like Lonely Planet Maldives is still one of the handiest ways to do research. You can carry it around before you travel, dipping into it and making notes.
- Book Activities – It’s a great idea to plan a few adventures in advance. GetYourGuide has an excellent catalogue of travel activities for the Maldives, with real reviews and usually an option to cancel, if your plans change.
Can I Use My Mobile Phone In The Maldive Islands?
Roaming charges are generally high, and you’ll be better off with a local option, but it’s worth checking with your current provider to see if they have any compelling international options.
Buying a local SIM at the airport is generally more cost-effective. You’ll need an unlocked phone and your passport. The Maldives has two primary mobile operators:
- Dhiraagu – Has good nationwide coverage and offers various tourist-specific SIM card packages. SIM cards can be purchased at Velana International Airport (MLE) and in Malé,
- Ooredoo Maldives – Another major provider with competitive plans and wide coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in Ooredoo stores.
Both Dhiraagu and Ooredoo offer eSIM options, eliminating the need for a physical SIM altogether. These can be bought and activated in advance but may be better done at the airport. Both Dhiraagu and Ooredoo can be purchased there.
Download essential apps and offline maps before your trip. Keep an eye on your data usage to avoid unexpected charges: turn off data roaming and automatic updates when not using data. Most resorts and many public areas in the Maldives offer Wi-Fi, so be sure to take advantage when you can.
Travel Insurance For The Maldive Islands
Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
What Do You Need To Pack For The Maldives?
The following sections cover the items you should consider packing for the Maldives, including clothes, toiletries and medication, electronics, and the luggage itself. We have also included sections on what to consider when taking part in specific activities like diving, as well as some information about money and which documents to bring.
As always, the best advice is to pack less. If in doubt, leave it out.
What Clothes To Pack For The Maldive Islands
Take clothes you can mix and match for variety, and layer according to circumstances and temperature.
- Light, Breathable Clothing – The Maldives has a hot and humid tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will help keep you cool and comfortable. Pack a selection of t-shirts, shorts, shirts, and dresses. Some of these can also double up as beachwear.
- Sarong – If you plan on walking around your resort or the islands outside of the beach or pool area, it’s polite to wear some kind of cover-up like a sarong over your swimsuit.
- Casual Evening Wear – While the Maldives is a laid-back destination, some dining venues and resorts may have a dress code for evening meals – e.g., collared shirts, light dresses, or trousers. Packing at least one smart-casual outfit ensures you’re prepared for any occasion.
- Evening Layer – The evenings can be breezy, especially if you’re dining outdoors by the ocean. A light sweater or jacket can keep you warm if there’s a slight chill.
- Underwear – It’s worth investing in underwear that withstands the heat and your body’s sweat. I’ve found that Under Armour underwear, while expensive, has been invaluable for staying cool
- Swimwear – You’ll most likely be spending a lot of time in the water, so packing several pairs of swimsuits or trunks is important for swimming, snorkelling, and lounging by the pool or beach.
- Flip-Flops – Perfect for walking around the resort, lounging on the beach, or heading to the pool. Comfortable flip-flops or sandals are ideal for a laid-back beach vacation.
- Water Shoes. – If you plan activities like snorkelling or walking on rocky beaches, water shoes can protect your feet from coral or rocks while keeping you comfortable.
- Walking Shoes – Pack comfortable, casual walking shoes or sandals for excursions, that can also serve for evenings out or when visiting local restaurants or resorts that have a more formal dress code for dinner.
- Sun Hat – Protect your face and scalp from the sun’s strong rays with a wide-brimmed hat or cap while spending time outdoors.
- Sunglasses – The bright sun and reflections from the water can be harsh on your eyes, so sunglasses with UV protection shouldn’t be forgotten.
Health And Grooming Items To Pack For The Maldive Islands
The Maldives is sunny year-round, and the sun can be particularly intense due to its tropical location. So, in addition to your usual toiletries and medications, sunscreen and lip balm are essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin from UV damage.
- Sunscreen – The Maldives has strong sun exposure, and using a reef-safe sunscreen (which doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone) will protect your skin and help preserve the coral reefs while snorkelling or swimming. Make sure it has a high SPF.
- Lip Balm – Protect your lips from the sun, which can quickly cause them to dry out and chap, by using a lip balm, also with high SPF.
- Insect Repellent – Although the Maldives is generally a beach paradise, you may encounter mosquitoes, particularly in the evenings. A good DEET or picaridin-based insect repellent will keep them at bay.
- After-Sun – If you happen to get sunburned, an after-sun lotion or aloe vera gel is soothing and helps with skin recovery.
- Water Bottle – It’s vital to stay hydrated in the hot, humid climate. A reusable water bottle such as, the Nalgene OTF, is eco-friendly and saves money.
- Personal Toiletries – Bring enough of your usual domestic toiletries including your favourite shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Many resorts provide these but you may have your favoured brands or specialist requirements. Be sure to bring a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss, deodorant, and any makeup, hair accessories, and skincare products.
- Personal Medication – Bring any necessary prescription medications in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. The Maldives has limited access to medications, so it’s essential to bring everything you may need.
- First-Aid Kit – A basic travel first-aid kit can be useful for minor injuries or scrapes while engaging in outdoor activities or water sports. These generally include the core essentials, such as band-aids and antiseptic wipes. You can supplement with a small supply of anti-diarrhoea tablets, pain medication, and motion sickness tablets for when you’re on boat trips.
- Hand Sanitiser – A small bottle of hand sanitiser is convenient for maintaining hygiene during your travels, especially after using public facilities or before meals. Also make sure you keep a pack of tissues in your day bag for little emergencies.
- Travel Pillow – If you’re flying long-haul or going on a boat ride, a travel pillow can make the journey more comfortable.
Electronic Devices To Pack For The Maldive Islands
Your phone will obviously be invaluable for photos, communication, and navigation, especially since many resorts and tour operators use apps for booking activities. In addition to getting a SIM (see above), you should consider the following accessories and electronic items.
- Phone Charger – A charging plug and cable are necessary for keeping your phone battery (and backup) fully juiced each morning. You can probably pick up a replacement at the airport if you forget.
- Portable Power Bank – An external backup battery is also essential for keeping your devices charged while you’re out and about, on day trips, or even just at the beach, especially when you don’t have easy access to a power source.
- Travel Adapter – The Maldives uses the British-style Type G plug, so if your devices use a different plug, you’ll need an adapter. Use a universal travel Adapter, just to be on the safe side.
- Camera – The Maldives offers stunning scenery, and having a good camera or a smartphone with a great camera will help you capture the beauty of the beaches, coral reefs, and sunsets. I’d recommend the Canon Powershot range which are super compact, easy to use and quite cheap.
- Underwater Camera – If you’re planning to do water sports or snorkelling, an underwater camera or waterproof camera case will allow you to take pictures and videos without worrying about water damage.
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones – A pair of noise-cancelling headphones are a great addition for long journeys or for blocking out your surrounds.
- Kindle – A Kindle reading device will relieve the boredom of inevitable downtime in places like airports. You can store thousands of books on these lightweight devices.
Special Items For Specific Activities
The Maldives is famous for its crystal-clear waters, beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you’re snorkelling, diving, or just enjoying the view from a boat, waterproof gear and swimsuits are essential. Decide what activities you want to take part in before you leave and research what can be hired locally and what you need to bring. Providers of activities will often give this kind of advice.
- Snorkelling Gear – Many resorts offer free snorkelling gear, but if you have your own comfortable mask, fins, and snorkel, it can make the experience more enjoyable.
- Diving Gear – Similarly, if you plan on scuba diving, many resorts offer rental equipment, but you may prefer to bring your own if you dive frequently and are particular about your gear.
- Make sure you also bring your diving certification card, underwater camera, and rash guard.
- Surfboard – You’ll also need to check with your airline what the rules are around transporting your own surfboard.
- Wetsuit – Most of these activities require a wetsuit. Again, you can probably hire one locally but clarify this before you travel.
- Fishing Gear – Check local regulations if you plan to fish and find out from local organisations whether you’ll need to bring any fishing gear of your own.
- Dry Bag – A waterproof bag or pouch can be a necessary purchase for keeping valuables safe when engaging in water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, or kayaking.
Other Documents To Prepare For A Visit To The Maldive Islands
Sometimes things go wrong, so being prepared is a priceless investment. Keep a physical and digital record of any emergency contact information. This should include details of your resort, national embassy, and local emergency services, along with the contact details of your insurance company, bank (with card numbers), and both hard and digital copies of all your travel documents, including a scan of your passport, your tickets and hotel booking details. Keep copies on your phone and upload to a cloud storage service, such as Google or iCloud, so you have access to them if everything else gets lost.
It’s also a good idea to have a basic grasp of what to do if you lose your passport, credit cards, or need to claim for medical services.
Finally, if you wish to hire a car, make sure you have all a valid driving license from home and, importantly, an International Driving Permit (IDP). The renter will need to be 20 or 21 years old, depending on the rental agency’s policies, and typically must have held their driving license for at least one year.
Luggage For A Visit To The Maldive Islands
Again, the specific luggage you decide to take depends very much on the activities you are likely to take part in. If it’s a resort holiday, you can bring a big case full of clothes. Small additions like a dry bag can help even here, however.
- Lightweight Suitcase Or Backpack – Invest in a decent backpack brand like Osprey that will handle your stuff without discomfort. The weight should be on your hips and not your shoulders. Search Amazon for bargain priced backpacks., Alternatively, go for a high-quality suitcase, large enough to fit your gear with just enough extra space for anything you buy while you’re away.
- Carry-On Bag – Take a carry-on bag for essentials. You can take this on the plane but it can also double up as a daypack for general use when you’re out and about – a small backpack or beach bag is ideal for carrying water, sunscreen, a camera, and towel, while heading to the beach or going on day trips.
- Travel Wallet – A good quality travel wallet will keep cash, credit cards, and documents safe and secure. The Lewis N. Clark RFID Security Wallet is large enough for your passport, money, and other essentials, but still small enough to stash comfortably beneath your shirt.
- Packing Cubes – Travel cubes will save you time and hassle. These group your clothes into three or four units, so you can quickly pack and unpack, rather than dumping everything on the floor. You can do the same with ziplock bags, if you’re trying to save money, or even carrier bags. Get different colours to tell them apart.
- Ziplock bags are also useful for storing wet clothes, snacks, or other small items. You might want to consider a dry bag for keeping your electronics, camera, and important documents safe from water while you’re on the beach or taking part in water activities like kayaking or snorkelling.
- Laundry Bag – Having a dedicated bag for dirty clothes can help keep everything organised and remind you when it’s time to do some washing.
- Wash Bag – A sturdy, waterproof pack is essential for storing all your toiletries. Choose a smart one that opens up to access just what you need, and is also durable enough to contain leaks and spillages. The Magictodoor travel kit is a well-made and inexpensive brand.
- Most airlines have a 100 mL limit on liquids, so put large bottles into your hold luggage or decant the contents into smaller containers before you pack your cabin bag.
- Travel Lock – Investing in these is worthwhile to keep your luggage firmly away from opportunistic mischief. Make sure they are TSA-approved luggage locks, if you are travelling to and from the USA.
Money For Visiting The Maldive Islands
There’s no great mystery about using money in the Maldives, particularly if you are based in a resort. Credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted, and some local currency (Maldivian Rufiyaa) is useful to carry for smaller purchases.
Check with your bank and credit card company before you travel. Make sure you can use your cards abroad before you arrive and find out what their transaction fees are. Your bank will also be able to offer specific advice on financial transactions whilst there.
It’s also a smart idea to prepare a simple but realistic budget for excursions, meals, and souvenirs. That way, you won’t run out of cash halfway through your holiday. Be sure to include a hefty buffer to cover any surprises.
The Best Time To Visit The Maldive Islands
The so-called dry season (from November to April) is generally considered the best time to visit the Maldives, thanks to the sunny skies and lack of rainfall. However, this attracts more tourists and higher prices.
The budget conscious may opt for May to October, when there are less visitors but it’s called the wet season for a reason.
You should also take into account the activities you most want to do. There’s no point choosing the wet season if you plan to lounge about on the beach. Similarly, the surf and diving seasons differ slightly depending on which part of the islands you wish to visit.
Planning What To Do And Where To Go In The Maldive Islands
As noted above, the best approach to planning a trip to the Maldives is to base it around the kind of activities that appeal to you most. It really is worth putting a bit of time into research before you even book a flight. Again, a guide book like Lonely Planet Maldives is your friend here.
- Research the different atolls, islands, and resorts, as well as the main dive and snorkelling sites, if these are your key activities.
- Hone in on activities like snorkelling, diving, sunset cruises, or island hopping.
- Find and Book excursions in advance, via a service like GetYourGuide, especially during peak season.
- Create a rough itinerary.
