Each program has a specific packing list that has been designed to fit the program’s activities, length, and climate. Please click here to view the Hawaii: Local Connections packing list.

The average daytime temperature should range between 78-85 degrees F (25-29 degrees C), with a drop of about 10 degrees at night. Due to Hawaii’s many microclimates, the climate can vary depending on location within the island. The program takes place during Hawaii’s dry season, however it is not unusual to see small amounts of rainfall in the tropical areas. It tends to be a bit cooler in the mountains and and warmer near the beaches.

ARCC has been operating programs in Hawaii for several years, and we have built relationships with a variety of individuals, small communities and organizations who enjoy hosting ARCC student groups. The specific service projects that each group will work on depend on the needs of the communities at the time the groups are there. Possibilities include mentoring local schoolchildren, trail maintenance, beach clean-ups, assisting in the preservation of tropical plants and homeless outreach.

You will sleep in tents on the beautiful North Shore of Kauai. All campgrounds have restroom facilities with showers and running water for cooking, washing hands, etc. You will sleep in groups of 3-4 in tents supplied by ARCC. Please make sure you check the Hawaii Clothing & Equipment List and remember to bring your own sleeping bag and pad.

Each group will travel together, with their two leaders, in a 15-passenger van. If you would like to bring music for these rides, feel free to bring a music player or CDs. If you bring an iPod or MP3 player, make sure to bring a radio adapter, as most of our vans do not have a MP3 jack.

The group will work together to create each menu and prepare typical American food and fruits throughout the duration of this program.

Vegetarians and medical dietary requirements (i.e. allergies) are catered for. It does help if we are informed of this prior to departure date.

We suggest bringing spending money of roughly $75/week. Most cash should come home, but you will want some personal money to pay for airline baggage fees at the airport, souvenirs/gifts, laundry, extra snacks and emergencies (lost items, clinic visit, etc.). A small amount of cash and ATM cards usually work best.

If you are traveling to Hawaii from somewhere in the United States and are under the age of 18, airlines do not require photo identification. It is a good idea to travel with a picture I.D. if possible, but it is not necessary to bring a passport. A school identification card with your photo on it is best, but a library card or credit card with your name on it is also helpful. If you are traveling to Hawaii from somewhere outside of the United States, you will need to bring your valid passport.

Although you will not be doing traditional backpacking on this trip, it is important that you bring a backpack as your main piece of luggage. During the program the group will be navigating through airports, on and off buses, up and down stairways, and taking short hikes on unpaved paths. The group will be able to move much more efficiently if everyone is carrying their belongings on their back.