Build your stay, day by day
Tell us how long you have and how you like to travel. Get a day-by-day plan with the islands, stays and activities that fit.
A good Pacific trip comes from a few decisions made in the right order. Follow these steps and you avoid the most common and most expensive mistakes.
1. Choose your season
For most of the South Pacific, May to October is drier and more comfortable. See our best time to visit guide.
2. Pick one or two islands, not five
Transfers take more time and money than people expect. Two bases for a ten-day trip is a good rule. Start with the destination guides.
3. Set a realistic daily budget
Add flights, lodging, food, transfers and activities. Remote islands cost more because most goods are shipped in. A guesthouse stay with local food costs far less than a resort with meals at resort prices.
4. Book flights and transfers first
Interisland flights and ferries have limited seats. Lock them in before choosing the last hotel.
5. Prepare entry and health basics
Check passport validity, visa rules and travel insurance for each country you will visit. Rules change, so confirm with official government sources.
6. Stay connected
Roaming is costly in the Pacific. See our guide to mobile data for the islands.