The Maldives is my favorite place on Earth. I love it so much that I’ve visited six times, so you might say that I’m a bit of a pro when it comes to packing. If you haven’t been to this slice of paradise before and are wondering what to take on your luxury vacation, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is here to take you through everything you’ll need on a trip to the Maldives. I’ve written this list with a ten-day trip in mind, but of course you can adjust my recommendations based on how long you’re going for. 

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3-4 Swimsuits

Let’s start with the obvious. The Maldives is 99% water, so you’re going to need some killer swimsuits to splash about in. Personally, I like to go for bright colors and tropical prints for a Maldives trip, since that’s what this amazing country is all about. 

I’d recommend bringing 3-4 swimsuits for a ten day trip so that you can change things up and don’t get bored of wearing the same old suit every day. 

2-3 Maxi Dresses

Not only are flowy maxi dresses cool, stylish and comfortable, they can help you to achieve beautiful photos – especially when there’s a breeze. 

2-3 Mini Dresses

Light mini dresses are great for dinner on the beach or even as cover-ups during the daytime. 

2-3 Beach Co Ords 

I’m a sucker for a good co ord. There’s something so cute about a matching set and a trip to the Maldives is the perfect opportunity to try out this fun fashion trend. 

2-3 Playsuits

The beach is the perfect place to rock a cute playsuit. Plus, they also make for light beach coverups to slip on and off during the daytime. 

1-2 Pairs of Sandals or Flip Flops

To be honest, you’ll probably be barefoot for a lot of your luxury trip to the Maldives. However, a pair or two of slip on shoes is a good idea for comfort and convenience. 

A Stylish Sun Hat 

I’ll be honest: I don’t love wearing hats but I like having a burnt scalp even less. Packing a stylish sun hat is great for those all-important pics and it will keep you from wincing every time you brush your hair. 

Sunscreen 

Since you’ll be spending most of your time out in the sun, it’s so important that you bring a high-SPF sunscreen with you. Personally, I really like Piz Buin 1 Day Long Lasting Sun Lotion because you can apply it in the morning and forget about it for the rest of the day. For those with pale and/or sensitive skin, La Roche Posay Anthelios spray in SPF 60 is a really good option. You do have to reapply it throughout the day, but it’s a pleasant cooling spray that doesn’t feel sticky or greasy so it’s not a chore to put on. 

Facial Sunscreen 

If you’ve got sensitive or acne prone skin, it’s best to take a separate facial sunscreen that won’t break you out. La Roche Posay’s Anthelios is one of the few bodily sunscreens I’m happy to put on my face. Meanwhile, Purito (one of my favorite Korean beauty brands) offers some excellent facial sunscreens with UVA and UVB protection. Their Comfy Water and Centella Unscented Sunscreen are all the range in the beauty community right now.

 

Sunglasses 

Of course, you can’t forget your sunnies on a tropical vacation. I like to pack a few pairs to change things up but a single pair will do the job. 

After Sun Lotion 

After sun lotion helps to soothe burnt bits and assist the skin’s natural healing process. Even if you don’t tend to burn, it’s important to rehydrate your skin a day in the sun, and certain lotions can even help you to prolong your tan, like this one from Sisley Paris. 

Beach Bag

A water resistant beach bag is great for keeping your belongings sand-free when you head down to the beach.

 

Plug Adapter 

The most common type of plug used in the Maldives is a type G, which is the same plug as the UK. It’s a good idea to take your own adapter just in case, but luxury resorts will usually supply guests with adapters so it’s not the end of the world if you can’t find one in time. 

Dry Bag 

A dry bag keeps your stuff, well… dry during all of your aquatic adventures. Better safe than sorry, right? 

Underwater Camera 

Last but not least, I highly recommend bringing an underwater camera to capture all of your amazing memories in the Maldives’ bright blue waters. You can capture some seriously amazing shots as you swim and snorkel. 

What NOT to Bring to The Maldives

Now that we’ve covered what you should pack, here are two things that you most definitely shouldn’t:

1. Alcohol. I know it can be tempting to cash in on all the deals in the airport’s duty free store, but it’s not worth it. Bringing your own alcohol into the Maldives is prohibited. Your bags are X-rayed on arrival so any contraband will definitely be found – and confiscated. 
2. Pork and its by products. I’m not sure why you’d want to bring pork on vacation, but stranger things have happened. The Maldives is a conservative Islamic nation and pork is forbidden, so make sure to respect these rules. 

Now that you’re all caught up on what to pack for your Maldives trip, check out this list of the best eco-luxe resorts the country has to offer and stay up-to-date with the latest travel requirements. Meanwhile, if you’re wondering what to pack in your carry-on bag, this guide has got you covered.