Tahiti and Bora Bora packing list for families
Bora Bora is all about the lagoon, so most of the packing list is about getting in and out of the water safely and comfortably. A long trip and small planes also mean packing with intention.
Photo by Fresh Hibiscus on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Tahiti & Bora Bora
- Many overwater bungalows have ladders straight into the lagoon. If you have little ones who aren't strong swimmers, ask about railings and gates before you book, and bring a life jacket that fits well.
- Getting to Bora Bora means a long flight to Papeete and then a short flight to the island. Inter-island flights can have tighter baggage limits, so check yours, and consider a night in Tahiti or Moorea to break up the trip.
- The lagoon is the main event, and rental snorkel gear often runs large on kids. Bring masks that fit, plus reef shoes for coral and rocky spots.
Tahiti & Bora Bora
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Carry-on8
Clothing4
Shoes2
Beach & pool10
Little ones4
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech4
Island whites
White, sand, sea glass, coral
For the grown-ups
- Linen shirt or linen set
- A white cover-up dress
- Leather slides for dinner
For the kids
- Seersucker or linen shorts
- Matching-print swimsuits
- Soft cotton sundress
For photos
- Everyone in white and one pop of coral
- Shoot at golden hour on the sand
Tahiti & Bora Bora weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 88°F 31°C | Warm, humid wet season with heavy showers. Cyclones are uncommon but possible. | |
| February | 88°F 31°C | Warm, humid wet season with heavy showers. Cyclones are uncommon but possible. | |
| March | 88°F 31°C | Warm, humid wet season with heavy showers. Cyclones are uncommon but possible. | |
| April | 88°F 31°C | Warm, humid wet season with heavy showers. Cyclones are uncommon but possible. | |
| May | 86°F 30°C | Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds. | Dry season brings the clearest skies for lagoon days. |
| June | 85°F 29°C | Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds. | Dry season brings the clearest skies for lagoon days. |
| July | 84°F 29°C | Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds. | Heiva i Tahiti, a festival of Polynesian dance, music, and traditional sports. Humpback whales visit the islands, with Moorea a favorite spot to see them. Dry season brings the clearest skies for lagoon days. |
| August | 84°F 29°C | Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds. | Humpback whales visit the islands, with Moorea a favorite spot to see them. Dry season brings the clearest skies for lagoon days. |
| September | 85°F 29°C | Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds. | Humpback whales visit the islands, with Moorea a favorite spot to see them. Dry season brings the clearest skies for lagoon days. |
| October | 86°F 30°C | Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds. | Humpback whales visit the islands, with Moorea a favorite spot to see them. Dry season brings the clearest skies for lagoon days. |
| November | 87°F 31°C | Warm, humid wet season with heavy showers. Cyclones are uncommon but possible. | |
| December | 87°F 31°C | Warm, humid wet season with heavy showers. Cyclones are uncommon but possible. |
Tahiti & Bora Bora with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Tahiti & Bora Bora with kids?
The best time is May–Oct. Dry season. Sunny, slightly cooler, and breezy with trade winds.
What's the weather like in Tahiti & Bora Bora?
Typical daytime highs range from about 84°F (29°C) in July to about 88°F (31°C) in January. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Tahiti & Bora Bora?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Tahiti & Bora Bora?
Type C/E, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Tahiti & Bora Bora with kids?
Many overwater bungalows have ladders straight into the lagoon. If you have little ones who aren't strong swimmers, ask about railings and gates before you book, and bring a life jacket that fits well.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.