The Maldives isn’t just another beach location, but one of a unique type which can be enjoyed in two ways – as a luxury traveller opting to stay at a resort or as a budget traveller choosing to stay at local islands. Your Maldives Packing list will be determined by which type of travel you choose between the two because the environments in both will be completely different. So, let us get going and answer the question of the day.
Therefore you shouldn’t carry sunscreen that has the following chemicals: oxybenzone, parabens, Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate), 4-methyl benzylidene camphor (4MBC), triclosan, Nanoparticles including of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), Octocrylene.
Octocrylene below 10% as been labelled safe and is mostly used in all reef friendly sunscreens. Try buying a sunscreen that doesn’t have this either or has it in less quantity.
Consider products that include mineral sunblock with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are ‘non-nano’ in size. If they are below 100 nanometers, the creams can be ingested by corals and are not reef safe.
Sorry for the science talk. It is definitely easier to just buy and carry sunscreen labelled – Reef Safe or Reef Friendly – however, not all such products are actually safe. This list of chemicals will help to check if your usual sunscreen is good to go or you need to buy a one that is reef-safe.
I would recommend you to carry one pair of conservative clothing in case you plan to do a tour of a local island from your resort.
In addition to this Maldives packing list, ensure you carry all your personal items like nightwear, underwear, toiletries, make-up, documents, etc. Sign up and download our all-season packing list, so you don’t miss carrying anything important on your travels. This list has been my go-to for last-minute checks to figure out what I’ve missed packing. It’s really very helpful.
Life is different on the islands inhabited by locals as there are some rules to adhere to. Since, Maldives is a Muslim country, there is a strict dress code on the islands while the resort islands are allowed to function in their own bubble to cater to international tourists.
Hence, your day clothes and things to carry will be slightly different than what is needed for a luxury resort stay. You will need all the items mentioned above and more.
Items contrary to Islam are not allowed in the country. Some of these are:
- Idols for worship
For a list of items not allowed in and out of Maldives, read here.
Also, it would make sense to not bring any warm clothes since there will be absolutely no need for these even on windy and cloudy days.
We hope this answers your question regarding what to pack for Maldives. As you can see, there isn’t much you need there. The country has a very chilled out vibe as is the case for most beach locations. Just ensure you pack based on where you’re staying. In case you forget anything, you can always buy it from the store at your resort or island. So pack, relax, and have a splendid vacation.
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