Medications are also important items to pack. If you have asthma or other respiratory problems, please be aware that we have “vog” in Hawai`i. Vog is similar to smog but comes from the volcanoes. Even if you do not have respiratory issues, you may still experience other symptoms if the vog gets strong, such as headache, watery eyes, and sore throat. The vog on the Big Island mostly affects Kona, which is on the opposite side of the island. However, certain wind patterns can sometimes affect Hilo, as well as other islands.

Along with your medications, please bring an extra pair of prescription glasses or an adequate supply of contact lenses if you need them. Again, the cost of replacing these in the U.S. may be higher than in your home country.