Hey beach bum! Dreaming of the Maldives, those crystal turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and your own overwater bungalow with steps straight into the sea? It's pure paradise, but the heat is intense, humidity high, sun brutal, and everything revolves around water activities and relaxing without burning or dehydrating. This packing guide zeros in on overwater villa life, reef protection, snorkeling must-haves, breezy clothes, and keeping hydrated so you can chill without drama.

Start with reef-safe sunscreen, because regular ones harm the corals big time. Grab mineral-based formulas, zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, labeled reef-safe or ocean-friendly, SPF 50+ broad spectrum. No oxybenzone, octinoxate, anything that bleaches reefs. Pack a big tube, reapply every two hours or after swimming, even if waterproof. Lip balm with SPF too, lips fry fast. And a stick version for quick face touches. Apply 20 minutes before heading out, on dry skin, not in the water.

Snorkeling gear is key, even if your resort has some to borrow, personal stuff fits better and stays clean. Mask and snorkel combo that seals well, no leaks around nose and eyes, try it before travel if possible. Fins, short or full-foot ones for easy kicking, nothing too bulky. If you wear prescription glasses, consider prescription mask or contacts. Rash guard or long-sleeve swim shirt, UPF rated, protects back and arms from sun while in water long. Waterproof dry bag or pouch for phone/camera on boat trips or beach. And a small mesh bag to rinse gear after, salt water sticks otherwise.

Lightweight resort wear for that effortless island vibe. Think breathable, quick-dry fabrics, linen, cotton blends, rayon. Flowy dresses or kaftans for women, loose shirts and shorts for guys, neutral or soft tropical prints. Swimsuits plenty, two or three bikinis or trunks so one dries while you wear another. Cover-up sarong or light robe for walking to restaurant or pool. Flip-flops or water shoes, something easy slip-on, protect feet from hot sand or sharp coral bits if wading. Wide-brim hat or baseball cap, sunglasses polarized to cut water glare. Light scarf or shawl for evenings when breeze picks up or AC blasts in dining areas. Pack light overall, most resorts have laundry service, no need for tons.

Hydration strategies because tropical heat sneaks up, you sweat more than you notice. Reusable insulated water bottle, big one, keep it filled with cold water from room or resort stations. Electrolyte packets or tablets to add if you're active snorkeling all day, prevents cramps and fatigue. Coconut water from fresh ones if available, natural rehydrator. Drink constantly, aim for clear pee, not waiting till thirsty. Avoid too much alcohol midday, it dehydrates worse in heat. Infuse water with lemon or cucumber slices from breakfast if plain gets boring. And hat plus shade breaks, don't stay in direct sun hours on end.

Quick extras to finish. Bug repellent, though Maldives low on bugs, evenings sometimes mosquitoes. Small first-aid like after-sun aloe, band-aids for minor scrapes from coral. Waterproof phone case for underwater pics or boat rides. Earplugs if sensitive to waves lapping under bungalow at night. And respect the environment, no touching corals, no feeding fish, take only photos.

There you go, packed for Maldives magic. Overwater bungalow life is as dreamy as it looks, stay cool, protected, and gentle with the reef. Unwind and soak it all in. Paradise awaits!