Study your itinerary. Do you have activities planned that will require certain clothing, such as a wedding, bike ride, or volcano hike? Or do you plan on spending your time exclusively at the beach? Your planned activities should dictate what you pack.
Check the weather forecast for Hawaii in your local newspaper or online at weather.com and similar websites. Notice the high and low temperatures for the time you will be in Hawaii.
Make a list. Based on your planned activities and the weather, list everything you will need to pack. Be sure to include anything you will need on the airplane, such as music or books.
Pack casual clothing and your swimsuit and sandals. If you bring nothing else to Hawaii, be sure to bring a few pairs of shorts and T-shirts along with your swimming clothes. Hawaii has fairly informal dress codes, even at most nice restaurants.
Pack light. Most airlines charge for checking a bag (see Resources below). Because you won't need bulky clothing, you might be able to pack everything you need in one carry-on bag.