A good quality sunscreen lotion is essential when you are visiting the Maldives. As you will be exposed to a lot of sun rays throughout your stay, sunscreen will come in handy when you are relaxing under the sun on a sunbed, on the beach, or doing exhilarating excursions. Sun Bum is a great sunscreen, as it is very moisturizing, water-resistant, and chemical-free.
It’s always good to have either a hat or a cap in times when it gets really hot, especially from 10 am till 2 pm.
A good pair of sunglasses is a must-have accessory to protect your eyes from UV rays. Plus, you could enjoy your time under the sun for a longer period of time without any discomfort.
Snorkeling gear is provided for free or at a very low rental cost in resorts and guesthouses. However, if you prefer to bring your own gear, you are free to do so. I always prefer to carry my own mask as I know I won’t have any problems and can comfortably enjoy freediving.
If you enjoy diving, you should surely do it here in the Maldives. Therefore, bring your diving certificate with you if you have one.
If you can afford a good-quality waterproof camera, you should get a GoPro. As for now, the GoPro 10 is one of the best waterproof cameras on the market to capture the most exhilarating moments you will experience during excursions or any water activity. Having your own camera to capture your personal experience will absolutely be worth the investment.
However, during the excursions, the guide will take pictures and videos for free.
The DJI Action 2 is also well-known for its waterproof capabilities and adventurous activities. This camera is substantially smaller than the GoPro 10, making it easier to carry around for some people.
I find this camera useful when taking time-lapses and taking tours around the islands, as it can be easily attached to your clothes with the included magnet.
The Mavic Mini 2 drone is easy to carry around while traveling, lightweight, and has a really good range where you can view an entire island and slightly further.
Swimwear is a must to bring along when you are visiting the Maldives. Ladies, we don’t want to wear tight normal bras on vacation; we want to be free without any restrictions and enjoy swimming comfortably. Bring along your favorite bikini sets and get ready to enjoy the sunny side of life. As for men, swim trunks and shorts would do.
Check out the swimwear from Funoas (a local brand).
Get bright colors of bikini's or shorts and avoid white and ocean tone colors.
Check out the Sarongs from Island Bazaar (local brand) and Maldivian traditional Feyli from souvenir shops when you arrive in the Maldives.
A dry bag would be a very practical essential to store your valuable items when traveling to the beach, going on a boat trip, snorkeling, or participating in any other water sports.
Beach tote bags are lightweight and will come in handy when you are going to the beach or island hopping.
checkout the Tote Bags from Island Bazaar (Local Brand).
All you need to pack is the most lightweight and comfortable clothes. Depending on how many days you will be traveling, you can pack a few short dresses, shorts, t-shirts, and maxi dresses for the evening.
As for men, bring along some lightweight t-shirts and shorts, and for the evening, some polos or shirts and one or two pairs of pants will be just perfect.
This one isn’t a must. However, if you would like to work out during your holidays, bring along two sets of gym clothes. In resorts, you can have access to the gym, and if you will be staying at a guesthouse, you can have access to their own gym or local island gym.
Personally, I prefer to be barefoot and do not wear dive shoes. However, if you find them more comfortable, bring them with you.
As most of the resorts and guesthouses provide fins rather than dive shoes.
In the Maldives, you might spend the majority of your time barefoot. Simply bring a pair of comfortable sandals or flip-flops. If you want, you can bring one pair of heels, but I doubt you will wear them.
Hairdryers are provided in the rooms of the resorts, but not in the majority of the guesthouses. Therefore, bring a compact, lightweight hairdryer that is ideal for travel.
UK plugs are commonly found here in the Maldives, so it’s a good idea to pack a universal adaptor.
All resorts provide toiletries, but most of the guesthouses do not. Also, if you prefer to use your own products, you should carry a toiletry bag.
This one is a must to carry if you want to keep mosquitoes away from you. Especially in the evening, mosquito repellant will come in handy.
If you will be staying at a guesthouse, you can buy mosquito repellant from local shops.