Before You Go

The two main pre-trip priorities for the Marshall Islands are flight schedules and cash: island-hopping flights and inter-island transport are planned on a weekly basis, and your cash flow determines how comfortably you can manage outside Majuro. The tips below are listed in chronological order.

• Book inter-island flights before finalizing your itinerary: Flights to and from Majuro run only about twice a week—missing one can cost you several days.
• Transport to outer atolls (such as Arno, Ailinglaplap, etc.) has a high cancellation rate; build in at least 1–2 flexible days in your schedule.
• Exchange for U.S. dollars before departure and carry plenty of small bills in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 20; there are no ATMs or card payment options on the outer islands.
• Liveaboard trips to Bikini Atoll are limited in availability and expensive—book several months in advance and confirm the refund policy.

On the Ground

Once you're on the islands, focus shifts from booking to safety and respect: natural hazards on low-lying atolls, village etiquette, and cash customs are everyday practicalities.

• Low elevation: Stay away from reef edges and low-lying roads during high tide and storm surges, and be cautious of flooded sections when it rains.
• Strong currents around outer reefs—always snorkel with a boat and wear a life jacket; never swim alone toward the outer reef edge.
• Show respect when visiting Bikini-related sites or speaking with affected communities—avoid taking photos without permission.
• When entering a village, greet locals first; accept flower garlands and return the gesture with both hands; avoid loud activities on Sundays.
• Carry mosquito repellent—dengue fever is a risk; drink mainly bottled water; medical resources are limited, and serious cases may require evacuation to Guam or Honolulu—make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Handwoven mats, hats, and shell jewelry make great souvenirs—buy directly from artisans for fair prices and to support outer island families; large woven mats can be packed with shop assistance, but remember to protect them from moisture before checking in.

In short, the Marshall Islands are ideal for slow travelers: work around limited flight schedules by going with the flow of the atolls, focus activities inside the lagoons if cash is tight, and show respect to locals and the ocean—you’ll gain far more than what’s on any itinerary.