American Samoa Travel Tips: 30 Tips for Travelling in American Samoa

By "They", we mean locals. And by "It", we mean Tutuila or even American Samoa!

Don't be surprised if locals refer to their home as Pago (pronounced "PAHN-go") rather than the full Pago Pago or even Tutuila. It's a charming local shorthand that sometimes extends to mean all of American Samoa, not just the capital or main island.

When we first heard this, it took us a moment to catch on. But once you're in the know, you'll sound like a local yourself!

Probably the most essential thing you need to know about visiting American Samoa (but we're too proud of our first tip to make it No. 1): You need to sort out an Entry Permit before you even think about boarding that plane!

This applies to everyone. Yes, even if you're a U.S. citizen!

Your Entry Permit (also called an "OK To Board" or OTB) gets checked twice: once before your flight and again when you arrive. Don't have one? You'll be turned away at the gate, which is definitely not the start to your Pacific adventure you were hoping for.

The good news is that getting sorted is straightforward once you know what to do. For the complete step-by-step process, check out our detailed guide: American Samoa Entry Permit: Do You Need a Visa to Visit American Samoa?

That's right, baggage allowances for domestic flights in American Samoa are incredibly tight, especially if you're heading to the stunning Manu'a Islands (which you absolutely should!).

We're talking just 22 lbs (10 kg) for flights to the Manu'a Islands, and trust us, they mean business.

Flying via Apia in Independent Samoa? They're even stricter about their weight limits.

While the Manu'a flights are a bit more relaxed, if the plane's full and you've got excess baggage, there's no guarantee your extra bags will make it on board. That's exactly why you'll see locals queuing up bright and early for check-in. They know the drill!

Our advice? Be there when check-in opens, pack strategically light, and resist the urge to bring that extra suitcase. Oh, and hardshell suitcases, even if they are carry-on size, are classed as check-in on these small planes, no matter what!

For all the nitty-gritty details on navigating these flights, check out our Domestic Flights in American Samoa: Your Guide to Interisland Flights.

Here's some refreshing news for your wallet: American Samoa might just be the only U.S. territory where you can dine out without doing mental maths on gratuities!

Tipping isn't mandatory here, and workers don't rely on it to make a living wage. That said, if you've received exceptional service, a tip is still warmly appreciated (think of it as a lovely bonus rather than an expectation).

For all the details on tipping etiquette and tax information, check out our American Samoa Tipping & Tax Guide for Travellers.

Don't expect a polished tourism machine when you arrive in American Samoa: there are only a handful of tour operators and accommodations, and they're mostly catering to federal workers and locals rather than visitors.

If you're expecting the Disney World experience, this might feel a bit odd at first. But we've found it incredibly refreshing. It's a more genuine way to travel, almost like an intrepid adventure where you're discovering something truly authentic.

The locals are absolutely lovely, and you'll quickly fall in love with the alofa (love and compassion) that defines Samoan culture. In our experience, this lack of commercial tourism actually makes your interactions more meaningful and your discoveries more rewarding.

Here's something that catches many travellers off guard: you absolutely must have your accommodation sorted before you even set foot in American Samoa.

This isn't just a good travel tip; it's mandatory for your Entry Permit application process. You'll need to book accommodation for your entire stay, not just the first few nights (we know, it's tempting to wing it, but trust us on this one).

Keep those booking confirmations handy, as you'll need them as evidence during the application process. If you're staying at a homestay or with friends or family and don't have a formal booking, simply ask your hosts to write an email confirming the dates you'll be staying with them.

Get fully prepared for the arrival process using our comprehensive guide: What Documents Do I Need to Travel to American Samoa?

Nobody wants their holiday to start with a customs headache, so it's worth knowing what you can and can't pack before you fly.

American Samoa takes biosecurity seriously (and rightly so), which means you'll need to declare anything that could potentially harm the islands' delicate ecosystem or economy. This includes certain foods, plants and other items that might seem harmless but could cause real problems.

The good news? There's still a generous duty-free allowance, so you can bring plenty of treats and gifts without breaking the bank.

From our experience, it's much easier to check the rules beforehand than try to explain why you've packed that questionable snack at the airport. You'll find all the details about what's allowed and what's not in our comprehensive guide: Arriving in American Samoa: Airport Customs, Quarantine & Arrival Process.

Most travellers arrive on American Samoa’s main island, Tutuila. While Tutuila is pretty awesome and has the most services and infrastructure, it’s far from the “real” American Samoa.

American Samoa is made up of five islands and two coral atolls, boasting their own unique experiences and charm. Be sure to do some island-hopping! Get some inspiration on where to go with our island guides:

• The Complete Travel Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila
• The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands
• The Complete Guide to Aunu'u Island
• The Complete Guide to Swains Island & Rose Atoll

For a complete comparison of the islands, take a look at The Best Islands to Visit in American Samoa.

Those stunning American Samoa photos you've been drooling over on Instagram? They're probably from Ofu and Olosega, the territory's most breathtaking islands that require a bit of planning to reach.

Getting there isn't exactly a quick hop. You'll need either a 25-minute flight (running twice weekly) or commit to an eight-hour ferry journey that operates just three times a month.

Here's a clever trick we've discovered: combine your trip with an alia boat transfer between Ofu and Ta'ū. Ta'ū offers its own fascinating attractions and houses a more substantial chunk of the National Park, making it well worth the detour.

Since Ta'ū has flights three times a week, visiting both islands actually makes your travel logistics much smoother for getting back and forth from Pago Pago. Trust us on this one: the extra planning pays off when you're not scrambling for transport options.

For all the nitty-gritty details on getting around, check out our American Samoa Transport Guide: 15 Best Ways to Get Around American Samoa.

That stunning beach you're eyeing or the perfect parking spot for your waterfall hike? It's probably someone's backyard.

In American Samoa, virtually everything is private land, and land holds deep cultural significance in Samoan tradition. We always make it a point to say hello and acknowledge the local villages before heading to beaches for a swim or pulling over to explore a hiking trail.

Some popular spots like Fagatele Bay and Lua Tala Beach (also known as "Two Dollar Beach") have custodians who collect small fees to maintain the infrastructure. Others, like Nu'uuli Falls, don't charge anything at all.

The key is simple acknowledgement. From our experience, locals are incredibly welcoming when you show respect rather than assuming it's your right to wander wherever you please.

A friendly wave and a quick "talofa", and asking, for example, "Is it Ok to swim?" goes a long way (and it's usually absolutely fine once you've made that connection).

For more insights into local customs, check out our American Samoan Etiquette: American Samoa Customs & Traditions guide.

Let's be honest, if you're expecting five-star luxury in American Samoa, you might want to adjust those expectations just a tad!

Accommodations here are reasonably priced (typically US$100-160 per night), but they come with their own unique personality. Think air conditioning units that sound like they're hosting their own late-night party, showers that prefer the "refreshing cold water experience" (especially in the Manu'a Islands), and even the fanciest hotels might not have an iron in your room.

The infrastructure hasn't changed much since the 1970s, so don't be surprised to find a classic bathtub-shower combo that your grandparents would recognise.

But here's the thing: those stunning coastal and hillside locations, combined with that wonderfully untouristy vibe, more than make up for any missing "luxury" touches. From what we've experienced, there's something quite charming about staying somewhere that prioritises character over chrome fixtures.

For accommodation inspiration, check out Where to Stay in American Samoa: The Best Accommodations.

Pack a lavalava (sarong) or pick up one when you arrive. American Samoa is a deeply Christian nation where modesty is taken seriously, and wandering through villages in your beach shorts or swimmers is considered disrespectful.

The lavalava is your best friend here; locals of all genders swear by them as the perfect cover-up when you're heading from the beach back to civilisation. It's lightweight, practical and shows you respect local customs (plus you'll look like you know what you're doing).

For more insights on navigating local etiquette, check out our Samoan Etiquette: American Samoa Customs & Traditions guide.

Cash is the preferred method of payment across American Samoa and is, in many cases, the only form of payment.

Taxis, buses, alia boat transfers, markets, and small tour operators, convenience stores, car rentals and accommodations; there are many instances where cash is the only accepted form of payment.

While some restaurants, supermarkets and hotels on Tutuila accept card payments, they don't accept all credit cards and there is usually a 3 to 5% fee.

Remember, cash is king, and you'll want to withdraw or exchange as much as you're comfortable carrying.

For more advice on paying your way through American Samoa, check out What is the Best Way to Pay in American Samoa?

As mentioned, American Samoa is a primarily Christian country, so locals see Sunday as a day of rest and worship.

That's why you'll find that most shops close by Saturday afternoon, most tours don't operate on Sunday, and activities like swimming or hiking on a Sunday, especially in the Manu'a Islands, are frowned upon.

While Sunday customs are strong (and you're expected to wear respectful clothing when visiting churches, just in case you decide to check out the experience), it doesn't mean that the entire country closes for the day. There is still the odd attraction and shop open, depending on the religious background of the owners. For example, some Chinese- or Seventh-Day Adventist-run stores are open on Sunday, whilst some stores will open on a Sunday evening once everyone is done with church.

Learn more about what's open on a Sunday in our 10 Things to Do in American Samoa on a Sunday.

We all have visions of an idyllic sunny holiday when jetting off to a tropical country but, well, "tropical" climates also mean that there is rain involved – sometimes a substantial amount!

Simply taking it on the chin and moving on with your day is the best way to handle when the heavens open, as it's likely that the shower will pass quickly anyway.

If it doesn't, well, at least you have 20 Things to Do in American Samoa on a Rainy Day.

If you want to decrease your chances of getting rained on while in American Samoa, you should consider visiting during the "drier season".

See American Samoa Weather, Seasons & Climate + American Samoa Weather by Month to learn more about the weather patterns.

Here's something we learned the hard way during our first trip to American Samoa: the tradewind season is absolutely real, and it can make or break your water-based adventures.

If you're planning to spend most of your time snorkelling, scuba diving or out on fishing charters, you'll want to pay attention to this. The tradewind season runs from May to October (coinciding with the dry season), bringing consistent winds of 20-35 mph (32-56 kph).

While you won't have to worry about rain during this period, those persistent winds can turn calm lagoons into choppy waters and make boat trips less enjoyable. We've found that many boat operators adjust their schedules or even cancel trips when the trades are particularly strong.

For the full breakdown of what to expect weather-wise throughout the year, again, check out our American Samoa Weather, Seasons & Climate + Weather by Month guide.

As mentioned, tourism isn't the islands' main focus, which means dive and fishing operators often juggle their passion projects with day jobs to pay the bills.

These operators invest in specialised equipment and may already be committed to local contracts weeks or even months ahead. We've found that reaching out early (think at least a month before your trip) gives you the best shot at securing that dream dive or fishing expedition.

Don't let this put you off though; the underwater world around these islands is absolutely spectacular and we mention plenty of shore dives from The Best Scuba Diving in American Samoa: Top 6 Places to Scuba Dive.

You'll also find detailed information about who to contact for tank rental in our The Best Dive Shops & Operators in American Samoa guide.

Get ready for some seriously generous servings! American Samoa combines the best (or biggest) of both worlds: American-style large portions with Samoan hospitality and food-loving culture.

We're talking plates that could feed a small village. If you're used to modest European or Asian portion sizes, you'll be absolutely gobsmacked by what arrives at your table.

Here's our advice: don't order a starter, main and dessert unless you're planning to take home enough leftovers for tomorrow's lunch (and possibly dinner too). Sharing plates is not only perfectly acceptable but practically essential. Plus, it'll help stretch your budget further.

Trust us on this one: your eyes will be bigger than your stomach, no matter how hungry you think you are.

For more money-saving tips like this, check out our 15 Tips to Save Money in American Samoa.

Don't be surprised if the National Park of American Samoa feels a bit more restrictive than other Pacific island destinations you might have visited.

While it follows similar guidelines to mainland U.S. national parks, it's actually stricter in some areas due to its unique cultural and environmental sensitivities. Each park has its own set of local rules outlined in what's called the Superintendent's Compendium (fancy name, we know!).

For instance, drones are completely prohibited, the Old Vatia Trail and the Tuafanua Trail close on Sundays, Mt 'Alava Road is closed to all vehicles, you must stay on designated trails, keep groups under 40 people and obtain permits for camping.

From what we've experienced, rangers are friendly but firm about these rules; they're protecting something truly special, so we're big fans of following their lead.

Bottled water in American Samoa is surprisingly expensive, and you'll be drinking a lot more than usual thanks to the tropical heat and humidity.

The challenge? There aren't any filtered water refill stations around the islands, and we wouldn't recommend drinking straight from the tap. When you're buying multiple bottles daily, those costs add up faster than you'd expect!

Our solution has been a game-changer. We now travel the islands without constantly hunting for bottled water, thanks to water purification bottles like LifeStraw. Yes, they're more expensive upfront, but they pay for themselves time and time again (and eliminate the stress of finding shops when you're parched).

Simply fill up from any tap, and you're good to go. It's one of those travel hacks that makes island life so much easier.

For more water safety insights, check out Is the Water Safe to Drink in American Samoa? and our comprehensive American Samoa Safety Tips: Is it Safe to Travel to American Samoa? Plus, you'll love our 31 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in American Samoa for more eco-friendly travel tips.

American Samoa offers some absolutely incredible snorkelling, especially in those crystal-clear lagoons that'll have you mesmerised from the moment you dip your mask underwater.

Here's the thing, though – you need to be seriously careful around the reef passages, locally known as "ava". These are the gaps in the reef where water rushes out to sea, and trust us, those currents are no joke.

Never attempt to snorkel in these passages unless you're with a guided snorkelling tour or you're genuinely experienced with strong currents. We've seen too many people underestimate the power of these natural water highways.

On the subject, here's a practical tip that'll save you some hassle: bring your own snorkelling gear if possible. Only a handful of tour operators in American Samoa have snorkelling equipment available (check out our 5 Best Snorkelling Tours in Pago Pago & American Samoa for the full rundown), and there are no gear rental shops like you might find elsewhere.

The good news? The snorkelling here is absolutely worth the extra planning, and you'll be grateful you came prepared when you're gliding over those breathtaking coral gardens.

For more packing tips, check out What to Pack for American Samoa: American Samoa Packing List.

Mosquitoes aren't just a minor annoyance that can leave an itchy bite, but day-biting mosquitoes have been known to spread dengue fever and chikungunya in American Samoa – a major blow to your holiday if you contract the virus!

With that in mind, don't cheap out on your mosquito protection method, whether it's an effective but safe mosquito repellent or simply covering up with clothing.

Check out the 10 Ways to Avoid Mosquito Bites in American Samoa for all of our tips on managing bites.

Sunscreen is obviously essential for your trip to American Samoa, but the marine ecosystem surrounding the islands is badly threatened by sunscreen-induced bleaching.

The problem is easy to fix, however, by opting for "reef-safe" sunscreen rather than the standard stuff.

Unfortunately, the supply of reef-safe sunscreen in American Samoa is extremely limited, so we highly recommend bringing enough for you and your whole crew for the entire trip.

See The Best Sunscreens for American Samoa + Sun Protection Tips for more on the subject!

How long should you spend in American Samoa? Well, this depends on a number of factors, from budget to how many islands you want to visit. However, a minimum amount of time to visit the must-visit islands of Tutuila and Ofu-Olosega is 7 days, or 10-14 days to comfortably explore Tutuila, Ofu-Olosega and Ta'ū!

With Entry Permits allowing you to stay for up to 30 days, you could even stretch your stay further if you have the time. There’s plenty to do!

Otherwise, check out our itineraries for the most popular durations to stay in American Samoa:

• American Samoa Itinerary: 14 Days / 2 Weeks (Pago Pago & the Manu'a Islands)
• American Samoa Itinerary: 10 Days (Tutuila & Ofu-Olosega Islands)
• American Samoa Itinerary: 7 Days / 1 Week (Tutuila & the Manu'a Islands)

We also have itineraries for 3 days and 5 days, should things be really desperate, but we strongly recommend that you spend more time in American Samoa. You won’t regret it!

For those with limited time, we highly recommend taking a guided tour to see the highlights in one day. Check out the 5 Best Sightseeing Tours in American Samoa for our personal recommendations.

Suited up like something out of Pimp My Ride, American Samoa's buses are an iconic part of the landscape.

Using this mode of public transport can be heaps of fun, but when it comes to actually travelling somewhere in a timely fashion, well… Like much of American Samoa, the buses are on "island time". Nevertheless, you can learn more about how to catch one in Taking the Bus in American Samoa: Bus Fares, Routes & More.

For alternative ways to travel around the islands, including cycle touring (which is pretty epic) and guided tours (which are super convenient), check out the American Samoa Transport Guide: 15 Best Ways to Get Around American Samoa.

Special diets in American Samoa require a bit of detective work, but don't let that put you off! You won't find menus clearly labelled with vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free options, so be prepared to have some friendly conversations with restaurant staff.

From what we've experienced, many locals aren't familiar with terms like "gluten-free" or specific dietary restrictions, so patience and clear communication go a long way. We've found that explaining what you can and can't eat works better than using technical terms.

The good news? We've done the legwork for you in our American Samoa for Vegans & Vegetarians + 10 Best Restaurants and The Gluten-Free Guide to American Samoa guides.

Self-catering is also a brilliant option if you want more control over your meals (and we've included plenty of shopping tips in those guides too).

Brilliant news for budget-conscious travellers: American Samoa is refreshingly affordable compared to other Pacific destinations.

The limited tourism industry means accommodation prices are geared towards locals and federal workers rather than deep-pocketed holidaymakers. You'll find food is both affordable and plentiful, most attractions are completely free, and there's minimal pressure to book expensive tours you hadn't planned on.

The priciest part of your trip will likely be transport, flights and private alia boat transfers between Ofu and Ta'ū, but even then, your overall costs will probably be much lower than a similar island-hopping adventure in Hawaiʻi.

Want to stretch your dollars even further? Check out our 20 Tips to Save Money in American Samoa for some clever money-saving strategies. Plus, make a clear budget with American Samoa Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to American Samoa Cost?

With temperatures reaching average highs of 84°F (29°C) and high humidity all year round, American Samoa calls for a tropical wardrobe!

Light clothing, sun protection, swimwear and sandals/flip-flops are all essentials, while other useful items like snorkelling gear, rash vests and walking shoes are optional extras.

Don't worry, we've got every item covered in What to Pack for American Samoa: A Full American Samoa Packing List.

Needless to say, we’re big fans of “the internet” – we mean, how else are you going to access AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com?!

Free WiFi connection is not always a given in American Samoa. Only a handful of cafes and accommodations offer free WiFi, while other odd locations like the Pago Pago Airport and interisland ferry have WiFi available.

If you absolutely need to connect while on your island vacation, it’s best to get a local SIM card or portable modem with one of the local network providers. More advice can be found in How to Get Internet & WiFi in American Samoa.

As American Samoa's largest travel guide, we're here for you every step of the way!

Get inspired by our Destinations guides to each island and see where your wanderlust will take you.

Our Travel Tips section gives you all the practical advice you will need when planning your trip to American Samoa. All your Am Sam questions will be answered so you know what to expect when you arrive.

Looking for places to stay? Check out our Accommodation section where you'll find the best options across all islands and for various styles of travel: budget accommodation, family accommodation, hotels and more!

Whatever your tastes, you're bound to find your dream bucket list of activities in our Things to Do section. Our Things to Do page is split up into easy-to-digest sections where you can browse the activities that you are interested in, including water activities, walking, tours, shopping, nature, food and drink, golf, fishing, culture, adventure and more! We have now even made it possible to book personally trialled and tested tours online via our Booking Page, so secure your adventure today!

We make getting around easy with our Transport section, where you can find more information on buses, ferries, vehicle rental, public transport, international connections and more.

Finally, whether you're visiting for one or 14 days, we've made the perfect American Samoa itineraries in our Trip Ideas section. All the work has been done for you!