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Bora Bora is famously known as a lush, tropical island, commonly visited by couples on their honeymoon. Due to this, Bora Bora can have a relaxed, but upscale vibe. However its not just a honeymoon destination, and can be enjoyed by all types of travelers.
If you’re not sure what to bring or what to wear to Bora Bora we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive packing list. This includes a guide on how much of each item you should bring, and helpful tips for your time on the island.
The following Bora Bora packing list would be perfect for 4-7 day trip, but we’ve added ideas for what to pack on longer trips as well below.
In a hurry? Here are my 3 must haves for what to pack:
Why?: (#1) A light rain jacket doesn’t take up too much room, but helps you from getting caught out when it rains.
Why?: (#2) There are many different brands available but a set of wireless headphones are amazing for long bus or train journeys.
Why?: (#3) Having a lens cloth is so important yet its often left off packing lists. They’re cheap to buy and can save your photos from random smudges.
What to Pack for Bora Bora: Clothing
If you’re visiting for less than a week, you should have enough space to have an outfit a day. Anything longer and you may want to bring the same amount, but use your hotel or resort’s laundry facilities.
If you’re visiting for less than a week, you should have enough space to have an outfit a day. Anything longer and you may want to bring the same amount, but use your hotel or resort’s laundry facilities.
2-3 pairs of shoes: prioritise sandals, but one pair could be flats. If you plan on hiking, make the 3rd pair walking shoes.
Reef/ water shoes (optional): to protect your feet from small pieces of coral in the lagoon, however you’ll likely be fine without this. It’s a personal preference.
3-5 Summer dresses: Make sure 1-2 look nice enough for restaurants.
1-2 pairs of shorts
1 pair of leggings
Light pyjamas: 1-2 pairs
2-4 tops: choose light weight fabrics, nothing too tight as it can get quite hot.
A pair of underwear for each day.
2-4 bras
1-3 swimsuits
1 cover up for the beach: an oversized white shirt, colourful sarong or a classic coverup.
1-2 hats
A nice pair of earrings if you want for dinners. Avoid swimming with them unless you want to risk re-creating one of reality TV’s more iconic moments. Alternatively, purchase some local jewellery while you’re there.
1 light cardigan or jacket: for evenings (although keep in mind that evenings are still warm and can be humid). In winter (dry season), there is sometimes an evening breeze, so more needed then.
What to Wear in Bora Bora – Dry Season
Combining the information from our packing list and weather advice above, the only extra advice regarding what to wear in the dry season in Bora Bora, is to prepare for slightly colder evenings. You can also get away with slightly heavier materials during the dry season without getting too much hotter.
What to Wear in Bora Bora – Wet Season
For what to wear in the wet season, I’d recommend packing a lightweight rain proof jacket as rain is more likely during this time in Bora Bora. Remember that although it rains during this time, it is rare to rain all day. In addition to this, humidity can also be around 80% during this time.
Due to the higher chances of rain, its best to opt for shoes that are less prone to slips when spending time in doors.
What Electronics to Take to Bora Bora
Camera + batteries, your charger and 2-3 memory cards of atleast 8-32gb.
Your mobile phone and charger
An underwater camera such as a Go Pro or another, cheaper brand. Take note of which style of memory card your underwater camera needs.
If bringing a Go Pro you may want to check out the dome accessories to take half over, half under shots in the water.
Lens cleaner and cloth
Toiletries, Cosmetics and Medicine to Bring
Travel sized shampoo and conditioner, but check with your hotel as they may provide this already. If you take liquids, protect your luggage from leaks by wrapping them inside a plastic bag. Another option is to take solid shampoo instead.
Prescriptions and any medicine you’ll require while away.
A small first aid kit including hydration powder and headache tablets. Perhaps even something for upset stomachs.
Toothpaste and toothbrush.
Deodorant
Moisturiser (if needed)
Reef safe sunscreen
If you want to take makeup with you, keep it light, especially if you’ll spend a lot of time swimming.
Birth control (if appropriate)
Insect repellent
All Other Things to Bring to Bora Bora
2 x credit or debit cards – Try one MasterCard and one Visa, in case you encounter an atm that wont accept one of them.
A photocopy or digital scan of your passport for emergencies. Also leave a copy with someone you trust back home.
A day bag
A small clutch or handbag for dinners out. For everything else you’re best using the day bag.
A beach towel – hotels may not let you take their towels to the beach so check with them first.
If you have your own snorkelling set and there is room in your luggage, pack it. Otherwise you can rent these from most of the bigger hotels.
A plastic bag or small tote – this can come in handy for keeping things separated in your day bag, or for snacks.
A small umbrella (if visiting during wet season)
Waterproof bag for valuables
Weather and Seasons in Bora Bora
Dry Season in Bora Bora: What is the dry season like on this beautiful island? The dry season in Bora Bora lasts from May to October and is characterized by warm, sunny weather. The average temperature during this time is around 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes it the perfect time to enjoy all that Bora Bora has to offer, from swimming and snorkelling in the azure waters to exploring the lush jungle terrain.
Wet Season in Bora Bora: The wet season in Bora Bora typically runs from November to April. This is when the majority of the island’s rainfall occurs. The average temperature during the wet season is 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit). While the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, the wet season is still a popular time to visit Bora Bora. The rains help to cool down the island and make for some spectacular thunderstorms.
Bora Bora Packing List FAQ
What To Wear in Bora Bora on a Honeymoon?
The first thing to consider is the weather. Bora Bora has a tropical climate, so you will want to pack light, airy clothing that will keep you cool in the heat. The second thing to consider is what activities you will be doing on your honeymoon.
If you plan on spending time relaxing on the beach, you will want to pack swimwear, a mix of short and maxi dresses and a beach cover-up. If you plan on doing any hiking or adventuring, make sure to pack appropriate clothing and footwear such as leggings or shorts, and a plain t-shirt.
Going a step further, as it is a romantic trip after all, consider packing something nice to wear after hours.
What to Wear in Bora Bora at the Beach?
Go to the beach with your swimsuit underneath your clothes. A breezy summer dress or oversized white shirt / shorts combo will never do you wrong. A sarong can come in handy once you’re there. Bora Bora is not one of those places where its common to walk around in a bikini top outside of the beach. Apart from that, a protective hat and sunscreen are musts.
What to Wear in Bora Bora at night?
When you think of Bora Bora, images of an idyllic, sunlit paradise likely spring to mind. And while the island definitely lives up to its reputation during the day, there is one thing you need to keep in mind when packing for your trip: what to wear at night.
The key to nailing the perfect night-time look in Bora Bora is all about keeping it casual and comfortable. Think breezy fabrics and easy-to-wear silhouettes that will let you enjoy the warm evenings without feeling too overdressed. Ditch the heels for some cute flats or sandals.
A flowy maxi dress is always a good option, whether you opt for a printed style or a solid color. Pair with sandals and some jewellery for dinner, or a shorter, simple cocktail dress for a night out.
What to Take to Bora Bora on a cruise?
Bring the above but with a slightly warmer jacket incase the air conditioning is too high in the dining areas. Also make sure you bring shoes suitable for a boat, especially in areas that are exposed to water and could be slippery.
Suitcase or Backpack for Bora Bora?
Most people bring a suitcase when going to Bora Bora. If you are backpacking with the aim to save money, a backpack may be more comfortable for getting around. Many inter-island flights have a weight limit of 20kg so check before you pack.
Is Bora Bora Safe?
Bora Bora is a beautiful island in French Polynesia that is popular with tourists from all over the world. The island has a lush tropical climate and is surrounded by crystal clear waters. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including stingrays and sharks.
Despite its idyllic setting, there have been some safety concerns raised about Bora Bora in recent years. These concerns are valid, but the incidents they pertain to are rare and unlikely to affect you on your trip.
The first is about Tsunamis, as Bora Bora could be affected by Tsunamis due to Earthquakes occurring near other islands in the South Pacific. However, Tsunamis are rare. Still, if there has been a warning issued during your stay, you should take this seriously and get to higher ground. Make sure to check the weather forecast for your trip before you leave.
The other risks are also minor and can happen anywhere, things like potholes in roads (watch carefully when driving), the occasional pickpocket, and rarely, shark attacks.
Despite these safety concerns, Bora Bora remains a popular destination for holidays and honeymoons. Many visitors feel that the risks are minimal and that the island is still one of the safest places to visit in the world.