What Should You Pack for Samoa?
Samoa’s tropical climate makes lightweight, breathable clothing essential. Pack swimsuits for the beach and water activities, and sandals for walking around towns and islands. A light sweater or jacket is useful for cooler evenings, especially by the coast. If you’re visiting during the rainy season, a rain jacket may be necessary. Don’t forget sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen for sun protection during outdoor activities.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Relax on the beaches of Upolu, visit the To Sua Ocean Trench, and explore the rainforests and waterfalls of Savai’i.
What to Wear in Samoa
Samoa is a conservative country, so modest clothing is appreciated, especially in villages and during church visits. Women should bring a sarong or long skirts for covering up, while men should wear t-shirts and longer shorts. Casual-smart attire is suitable for dining out at resorts or in the capital, Apia.
*Note: This article contains affiliate links based on my own experiences, first-hand testing, and extensive research, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.
Spring
75 – 85°F
(24 – 29°C
)
Summer
80 – 90°F
(27 – 32°C
)
Fall
75 – 85°F
(24 – 29°C
)
Winter
70 – 80°F
(21 – 27°C
)
Spring: Warm and tropical
Summer: Hot and sunny with occasional rain
Fall: Warm with cooler evenings and rain
Winter: Mild with frequent rain, especially in coastal areas
Spring
7 inches of rain
Summer
5 inches of rain
Fall
7 inches of rain
Winter
9 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for visiting the markets of Apia or exploring local villages.
2. Tank Tops: Great for hot days spent lounging at the beach or relaxing at a resort in Upolu.
3. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for sun protection while hiking in the rainforests of Savai’i or exploring waterfalls.
4. Light Jacket: A light sweater or jacket is perfect for cooler evenings by the beach or dining outdoors.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable pants are useful for visiting cultural sites or for travel days between islands.
2. Skirt: A long skirt or sarong is great for visiting villages or exploring Apia.
3. Dresses: Light, breathable dresses are perfect for evening dinners or walks around town.
4. Shorts: Ideal for beach days or hiking the lush trails of Savai’i.
5. Jumpsuit: A stylish jumpsuit is great for evening outings at beach resorts or events in Apia.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Sandals: Comfortable sandals are ideal for walking around villages or relaxing at beach resorts.
2. Flip Flops: Great for casual beach days or poolside lounging at your resort in Upolu.
3. Water Shoes: Useful for swimming in the To Sua Ocean Trench or exploring the coral reefs of Apia.
4. Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the strong tropical sun while visiting the beaches or exploring the islands.
5. Sarong: A versatile sarong is perfect for covering up at the beach or when visiting local villages.
6. Beach Coverup: Ideal for transitioning from the beach to a beachside café in Apia or walking around the islands of Savai’i.
6. Swimsuit: A must for enjoying this tropical paradise!
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Great for packing essentials on short flights or boat trips between Upolu and Savai’i.
2. Beach Bag: Perfect for carrying towels, sunscreen, and water bottles for a day at the beach or snorkeling trips.
3. Daypack: Ideal for hiking or exploring the waterfalls and rainforests of Savai’i, carrying snacks, water, and camera gear.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for protecting yourself from the strong tropical sun.
- Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket is useful during the rainy season, particularly for exploring the inland areas of Savai’i.
- Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting villages or cultural sites to respect local customs.
Samoa Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SAMOA?
The best time to visit Samoa is from May to October during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the islands. June’s also great because it offers warm temperatures and less humidity, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural events.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SAMOA?
Teuila Festival (September): A week-long cultural celebration in Apia with traditional Samoan dancing, music, and canoe racing—great for cultural travelers and families.
Independence Day (June 1): A national holiday commemorating Samoa’s independence with parades, traditional performances, and feasts—ideal for those interested in local history and culture.
White Sunday (October): A religious and cultural holiday celebrating children, with church services, family gatherings, and traditional feasts—perfect for families and cultural travelers.
Christmas in Samoa (December): A joyful celebration filled with community gatherings, traditional feasts, and church services—great for cultural immersion.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SAMOA?
Samoa is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich culture. Start in Apia, the capital, where you can explore the vibrant markets, visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, and relax at nearby Lalomanu Beach. One of my favorite places is the To Sua Ocean Trench, a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for swimming and relaxing. For a more adventurous experience, head to Savai’i, the larger island, where you can explore the Alofaaga Blowholes, hike Mount Matavanu, and visit the stunning Afu Aau Waterfall.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SAMOA?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring Samoa’s beaches, cultural sites, and natural attractions. A shorter 5-day trip will give you enough time to experience Apia, the To Sua Ocean Trench, and some of Samoa’s beautiful beaches.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore Apia, visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, and relax at Lalomanu Beach. Day 2: Swim at the To Sua Ocean Trench and take a scenic drive around Upolu Island.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, take a boat trip to Savai’i and visit the Alofaaga Blowholes. Day 4: Hike Mount Matavanu and explore the lava fields. Day 5: Spend a relaxing day at the Afu Aau Waterfall before heading back to Apia.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, visit the Piula Cave Pool for swimming and snorkeling. Day 7: Take a scenic drive around the island of Savai’i, stopping at local villages and beaches.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, explore the lush rainforests of O Le Pupu-Pu’e National Park. Day 9: Visit the ancient Pulemelei Mound, the largest archaeological site in Polynesia. Day 10: Return to Apia for shopping and dining before departure.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit Saleaula Lava Fields to see the impact of past volcanic activity. Day 12: Spend the day relaxing at Manase Beach on Savai’i. Day 13: Take a cultural tour of local villages, enjoying a traditional Samoan feast. Day 14: Return to Apia for a final day of exploration and relaxation at the markets or beaches.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SAMOA?
2 Days
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
5 Days
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
1 Week
- 2 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
10 Days
- 3 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
2 Weeks
- 4 Swimsuits
- 1 Sarong
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SAMOA?
Heavy clothing: Samoa’s tropical climate makes lightweight clothing more practical.
High heels: Impractical for beach walks or island exploring—stick to sandals or flip flops instead.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SAMOA ?
Airfare: $800-$2,000 depending on the season and location, with higher prices during holidays.
Accommodation: $100-$400 per night, with options ranging from beachside bungalows to luxury resorts.
Transportation: $30-$100 for taxis, ferries, or car rentals between islands.
Meals: $20-$80 per day, with local markets offering cheaper options and resorts offering higher-end dining.
Activities: $50-$200 depending on snorkeling, boat tours, cultural experiences, and hiking.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SAMOA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not customary in Samoa, but it is appreciated in the tourism industry. For restaurants, rounding up your bill or leaving a small tip of $1-$3 is a nice gesture. For hotel staff and guides, $1-$5 per service is appreciated for exceptional service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SAMOA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Sun Protection: The tropical sun is strong in Samoa, so high-SPF sunscreen and hats are essential.
- Currency: The Samoan Tala (WST) is the local currency, and credit cards are accepted in tourist areas, though cash is preferred in rural villages.
- Water: Tap water is safe in most areas, but bottled water is widely available.
- Language: Samoan is the official language, but English is also widely spoken in tourist areas—learning basic Samoan greetings is appreciated by locals.