Joan Caballero – a personal blog

Our first trip to Fiji with our young kids was an exciting adventure, but the preparation was key to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable holiday. After scouring through blogs, Facebook groups, and consulting friends who had visited, I compiled a list of must-haves to make our family vacation unforgettable.

1. Sunscreen:
   Fiji’s tropical climate demands ample protection from the sun. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable item in your packing list. Ensure you pack enough for the entire family to stay sun-safe while enjoying the beautiful Fijian weather.
2. Junior Life Vests, Goggles, sand toys and inflatables:
   Kids and water activities go hand in hand. Since we stayed in an area without nearby stores, packing junior life vests, goggles, and inflatables was a game-changer. The inflatables proved especially useful at Malamala Beach Club, where the pool was a tad too deep for our little ones.
3. Swim Hats, Wide Brim Hats, Rashies:
   Learn from my oversight – pack hats! I was so focused on swimwear that I forgot this crucial item. Protect yourself and your kids from the sun with swim hats, wide-brim hats, and rash guards. Trust me; your skin will thank you.
4. Personal Medications:
   Bringing your own Panadol, Nurofen, and Zyrtec is a smart move. While we were fortunate not to need them, having familiar medications on hand provides peace of mind, especially when traveling with young children.
5. Quick Meals:
   Arriving late at night, I wasn’t sure about dining options. Packing quick meals like two-minute noodles, microwave rice, and snacks ensured our kids had familiar and comforting food. It’s a small effort that goes a long way, especially considering the high prices of snacks in local supermarkets.
6. Alcohol:
   Did you know you can bring up to 2.2 liters of alcohol per adult into Fiji? This little-known fact can save you money and ensure you have your preferred beverages on hand.
7. Laundry Detergent and hand soap:
   For families with sensitive skin, packing small bottles of laundry detergent is a smart move. Our room had a washing machine, and this allowed us to travel lighter on clothes in our suitcase. I like using the Palmolive foaming hand soap as opposed to the provided bar soap so I made sure to bring my own for my own comfort.
8. Colouring Books and Pencils:
   Bringing coloring books and pencils proved to be a delightful surprise for the local staff and children. Next time, I’ll be sure to pack extra to share with others.
9. Cash:
   Exchanging cash at the airport was a convenient way to tip taxi drivers, cleaners, and hospitality staff from day one. Though not expected, tipping between $5-$10 made a positive impact.
10. Mosquito Repellent:
    Fiji’s lush environment comes with its share of mosquitoes. Pack mosquito repellent to keep those pesky bites at bay and enjoy your vacation itch-free.

Packing for Fiji with young kids requires thoughtful planning, but it’s the key to a stress-free and enjoyable holiday. By considering these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for the adventure that awaits in this tropical paradise.