Packing list for Marshall Islands, travel insurance for Marshall Islands, and taking your belongings

What to bring to the Marshall Islands: brief

To check and pack:

• Documents: passport valid for at least another 6 months. Many travelers can enter visa-free or with a waiver for a short stay, but check the current rules for your nationality beforehand. Are you traveling via the US or Guam? Then you often also need an ESTA.
• Money: bringing US dollars is handy, as that is the local currency. Outside Majuro, ATMs are limited, and cash remains important.
• Personal care: sunscreen with a high SPF, mosquito repellent, and lip balm. Sun, wind, and saltwater cause you to dehydrate faster than you think.
• Outdoors and handy Items: a dry bag, snorkel set, and sunglasses. The Marshall Islands are made for people who love being in the water.
• Clothing: light clothing for warm and humid weather, plus something with long sleeves to protect against mosquitoes and evening breezes.
• Shoes: water shoes are useful for beaches with coral and reef areas. Medicines and travel first-aid kit: a small first-aid kit with ORS, painkillers, and plasters. Medical facilities are limited outside the capital.
• Mosquitoes and sandflies: bringing DEET is smart, especially if you are traveling to smaller islands where shops are limited.
• Technology and equipment: a type A/B universal adapter (US plugs) and possibly a power bank for island trips with limited power supply.

To consider:

• Snorkel set or diving mask: the underwater world here is ridiculously beautiful.
• Waterproof bag for boat trips.
• Offline maps and entertainment: internet can be slow or limited.
• Light long pants or a blouse to protect against mosquitoes and sun.
• Extra batteries or a power bank for outside the capital.

What knowledge comes in handy when going to the Marshall Islands?

• Knowledge of tropical weather conditions and the risks of dehydration is useful.
• Additionally, it helps to know that many islands are low-lying and vulnerable to flooding and storms.
• Also good to know: island life moves slowly. Very slowly sometimes. Those who resist usually lose out on the island.

Are there mosquitoes on the Marshall Islands?

• Yes, especially in damp areas and around stagnant water.
• Mosquitoes can transmit dengue. Malaria does not occur.
• More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sandflies on the Marshall Islands?

• Yes, especially around beaches and mangroves.
• They are small enough to completely humiliate you while you thought you were sitting safely on the beach.
• DEET and protective clothing usually work well.
• More about sandflies and sand fleas.

Can you buy DEET on the Marshall Islands, or other mosquito repellents?

• Yes, mosquito repellents are available, especially in Majuro.
• On smaller islands, the selection is limited, so preferably bring enough from home.

Can you buy a joint or weed on the Marshall Islands, or bring it to the Marshall Islands?

• Cannabis is illegal on the Marshall Islands. Using, possessing, or bringing it along can cause problems with the authorities.