How to Pack for a Trip in the Maldives

Each year, thousands of visitors head to the sunny landscapes of the Maldivian archipelago, which is one of the most coveted beach paradises on the planet. Offering holidaymakers the chance to enjoy some fun in the sun and water sports activities galore, the country is a tropical haven in which one can truly get away from it all. Regardless of the duration of your holiday, here are some must-have essentials that must be packed for your next getaway to the paradise isles.

Clothing

Those who are packing for a trip to the Maldives would do well to remember that although the country is a very cosmopolitan nation with all the modern comforts one expects of a world-class holiday hub, the cultural identity of the archipelago is steeped in the Islamic faith. This means that unlike in the Caribbean where one can wander from beach to restaurant to the streets in nothing but a bikini top and shorts, one needs to be more conservatively dressed in the Maldives. Although it is perfectly acceptable to wear provocative and revealing clothing within the confines of your resort, all vacationers must pack more modest clothing for sightseeing and excursions in Male, for example. This means that apart from t-shirts, shorts, sundresses and tank tops, it is also necessary to pack long-sleeved tops, slacks and dresses that extend beyond the knee.

Swimwear Options

Tourists who are based at Huvafen Fushi Maldives or any one of the other Maldives island resorts need not make conservative choices when it comes to swimwear. This is because, within the resort grounds, the attitude is far more liberal where attire is concerned. It is necessary to pack more than one swimsuit because if one is unusable for some unforeseen reason there will be another at your disposal. Swimwear can be quite pricey to purchase in the Maldives and those who wish to take part in diving tours and other water sports will also require their own wet suit.

Camera Specifics

No packing list to the Maldives would be complete without a digital camera that works underwater as some of your best holiday adventures will be had in or at least within the splash range of the Indian Ocean. Whether you plan to go scuba diving or snorkelling or want to document your other excursions in the country, a camera with underwater or water-resistant qualities will prove invaluable.

First Aid and Medication

Not only is purchasing medication a costly affair in the Maldives but the medicines you need may also not be available in local pharmacies, which are few and far between unless one is in the capital Male. This is why one must have a first-aid bag or kit full of essential medical supplies such as plaster, antibiotic creams, antiseptic spray and bandages. Make sure whatever prescription medication you require for daily use is also well-stocked and well stored in your luggage.

Slippers and Slip-Ons

Travellers will find that they can have a minimalist approach when it comes to packing footwear for a trip to the Maldives. A pair of flip-flops and sandals will more than suffice for the duration of the trip unless one hopes to wine and dine in some of the swanky restaurants in the archipelago, in which case, a pair of heels or formal shoes may be in order.

Entertainment Items

A tour of the Maldives is the perfect excuse to bring along your beach reads and holiday movie collection as there will be plenty of downtime during your days in the sun. Whether it's a laptop or hard drive full of your favourite movies or a tablet PC for keeping up with the news, make sure to bring along some entertainment devices along for the trip.