Heading to the beach for a relaxing getaway? Packing for a beach vacation can be tricky. You want to bring all the essentials without overpacking. This ultimate packing list has everything you need to know about what to bring for fun in the sun.
Bathing Suits
It goes without saying that bathing suits are a beach vacation must-have. Bring at least two swimsuits so you have options for different activities and a backup in case one gets wet. Choose swimsuits made of quick-dry material that will be comfortable and hold up well in the water and sun. If you plan to participate in active water sports, opt for a sporty bikini or one-piece rather than a delicate string bikini which could come undone. Don’t forget the swim coverup – you’ll want something like a breezy caftan or sarong to throw on for lunch or shopping.
Beach Bag
A roomy beach bag is essential for carrying all your seaside gear. Look for one that’s waterproof or water-resistant to keep items protected from wet swimsuits, spilled drinks, etc. The bag should be lightweight yet durable and have compartments to help you stay organized. Make sure it’s big enough to hold towels, sunscreen, a change of clothes, books, snacks, and other beach day necessities.
Sun Protection: Hats, Sunglasses, Sunscreen
Don’t forget the essentials to protect your skin from the blazing sun. Pack sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher and apply it liberally and often. Bring a wide-brim hat to keep your face shaded. Sunglasses are a must – look for ones that block 100% of UV rays. If you burn easily, you may want to throw in some lightweight sun-protective clothing as well, like a rashguard or coverup.
Beach Towels
Beach towels are typically larger and more absorbent than regular bath towels since they soak up both water and sand. Pack one towel for laying out and another for drying off. Opt for quick-dry microfiber travel towels, which take up less space in your bag. Bring a waterproof beach blanket as well to spread out on the sand – it folds up compactly when not in use.
Beach Reads
No beach vacation is complete without some good books! Load up your e-reader or bring a few paperbacks that are light and easy to tote around. Suspense novels, chick lit beach reads, and magazines are all good options. Don’t forget the beach read essentials like a book light if you think you’ll be reading at night and a book safe to keep belongings like your phone, wallet and keys protected while you read.
Water Shoes
Water shoes or sandals are great for beach vacations. Look for a sporty pair that dries quickly. They protect your feet from hot sand and sharp rocks when exploring tide pools or taking a dip. Water shoes with straps provide a secure fit for active water play and walking on slippery surfaces like boat decks. They’re easy to kick off when lounging on your towel or at a beachfront restaurant.
Coverups and Beach Attire
For relaxing or sightseeing around your destination, bring some lightweight coverups and beach attire. Beach dresses, shorts, tanks, and kimonos pack small and pull over your suit when heading to lunch or running errands. Breathable linen or cotton fabrics will keep you comfy in the coastal heat. Don’t forget a hat and pair of sandals or flip flops to complete your casual vacation look.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial in the sun and heat. Pack a reusable water bottle you can fill up and bring along to the beach, on tours, or out and about. Opt for an insulated stainless steel bottle that will keep water cold for hours without condensation. Infusing your water with fresh fruit is a tasty way to encourage you to drink more. An insulated tumbler is useful for bringing frozen beach cocktails like piña coladas too!
Beach Games
Bring along some classic beach games to play in the sand and surf. An inflatable beach ball, Frisbee, and paddle ball set don’t take up much luggage room. Cornhole boards fold up compactly if you have room. And a deck of waterproof playing cards works for games from Go Fish to poker. Get the whole gang involved for fun bonding time.
Snacks
Building sandcastles, swimming, and beachcombing will all work up an appetite. Pack salty snacks like chips, pretzels, and trail mix or sweet treats like granola bars and fruit. Dried fruit, veggie sticks, nuts, and popcorn all travel well too. Just be sure to keep snacks sealed in waterproof containers away from the heat.
Beach Gear
If you plan to spend lots of time in the water, pack the gear to help you make the most of it. Goggles allow you to peek below the surface while snorkeling. An inflatable pool float provides relaxing lounging. And waterproof phone cases let you listen to music, take photos, and more without worrying about damaging your device.
Nighttime Layer
Temperatures can drop quickly once the sun goes down by the shore. Pack a lightweight jacket, cardigan, or hoodie you can throw on after dark. Bonus points if it has pockets so you don’t have to haul a bag to the beach bonfire pits or evening beachfront strolls.
Toiletries
Don’t forget travel-sized toiletries like shampoo, toothpaste, and medications. The sun, saltwater, and heat can dry out skin and hair – bring moisturizing lotion and hair products. Pack chapstick with SPF protection for your lips. And waterproof mascara is a vacation must to avoid raccoon eyes after swimming and sweating in the heat.
First Aid Essentials
Hope for the best but prepare for the worst by packing a small first aid kit. At minimum, bring bandaids, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, anti-itch cream, pain relievers, motion sickness meds if you’re boating, and any personal medications you take regularly. Pack supplies to treat jellyfish stings, small cuts, headaches, upset stomachs, and other minor travel ailments that can strike so you’re covered.
Underwater Camera
Capture all your seaside adventures – even those underwater! Compact waterproof cameras allow you to snap pics while swimming, snorkeling, on water slides, or caught in the rain. Sturdy point-and-shoot models stand up to sand and the occasional drop too. Waterproof camera bags provide extra protection so your camera is ready anytime inspiration strikes.
Portable Chargers
Don’t let dead batteries ruin your idyllic island escape. Pack a portable phone charger or two so you can power up devices on the go when outlets are scarce. Waterproof power banks designed for the outdoors have high capacity to recharge multiple times. Now you can take photos, listen to playlists, and stay connected all day without worrying about your battery dying.
Travel Insurance
Protect your dream beach vacation with travel insurance. Comprehensive policies cover cancellations due to illness and injury, travel delays, lost luggage, medical emergencies abroad, and other unforeseen circumstances. You worked hard to plan this tropical getaway – make sure you can relax knowing you’re covered if anything unexpected pops up.
Bonus Packing Tips
- Bring resealable plastic bags and waterproof dry bags to separate wet and dry items in your beach bag.
- Pack clothing and pajamas made from quick-dry performance fabrics.
- Roll clothes to save luggage space and prevent wrinkling.
- Attach a waterproof ID tag with your name, phone number, and hotel info to valuables.
- Carabiners and packable nylon cords help hang damp items to dry on your patio.
With this beach vacation packing list, you’ll be set for a stress-free, fun-filled tropical escape. Just envision the sound of waves, the warmth of the sun on your skin, and the feeling of sand between your toes. Paradise awaits!
