Cook Islands, Cook Islands: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Cook Islands, Cook Islands? If you're planning to go to Cook Islands, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Cook Islands, Cook Islands

Based on the climate and weather in Cook Islands, Cook Islands, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Cook Islands, Cook Islands

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Cook Islands, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Cook Islands, Cook Islands by month

January

January in this region is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

In February, Cook Islands can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and sometimes jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cook Islands, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

In March, Cook Islands is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and sometimes jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cook Islands, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

April

In April, Cook Islands can be sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and occasionally jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cook Islands, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you find the correct type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

May

May is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June for Cook Islands is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

July

Traveling to Cook Islands in July, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

August

August here is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September in Cook Islands is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

October

Traveling to Cook Islands in October, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

November

November is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

December

December in Cook Islands is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cook Islands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cook Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Cook Islands, Cook Islands

Cook Islands, a small island nation in the South Pacific, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals and rich cultural heritage. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Cook Islands is an ideal vacation spot for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and beach bums alike.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cook Islands that you must not miss out during your visit:

1. Aitutaki Lagoon

Known as the "Honeymoon Island," Aitutaki is one of the most idyllic destinations in the Cook Islands. The island is renowned for its azure, crystal-clear lagoon that is perfect for snorkelling or diving. You can also take a boat tour to explore the numerous motus (coral islets) surrounding the lagoon.

2. Muri Beach

Muri Beach is a popular spot for sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts alike. It boasts four small islets that are perfect for exploring on foot or via kayak. The lagoon is also ideal for swimming, snorkelling or just lounging on the pristine beach.

3. Te Vara Nui Village

Te Vara Nui Village is a cultural attraction that gives visitors a taste of traditional Cook Island dance, music, and cuisine. There is a spectacular show every night that includes fire dancing, warriors' performance, and Hula dancing on traditional canoes. You can also have a traditional dinner in a stunning island garden.

4. Tapuaetai (One Foot Island)

Tapuaetai, also known as One Foot Island, is one of the most stunning and remote islands in the Cook Islands. It is a perfect spot for a romantic picnic, or simply to admire the beauty of the island.

5. Black Rock

Black Rock is a unique site where the ancient Cook Islanders believed the souls of the dead would gather before they ventured off to the afterlife. Today, visitors can enjoy the dramatic scenery and cliff jumping into the ocean from the top of the lava cliffs.

6. Cross Island Walk

For the daring and adventurous, the Cross Island Walk is a challenging, but rewarding scenic trail that takes you through the heart of Rarotonga. The trail is an 8.7km trek that leads you through tropical forests, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas of the mountains and ocean.

In conclusion, there are numerous tourist attractions in Cook Islands, and these are just a few that you should consider. The islands offer stunning natural beauty, friendly locals and a relaxed vibe that make it a fabulous destination for any traveler. Plan your trip to Cook Islands today, and experience a true island paradise!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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