Packing for a beach vacation can be an exciting, yet overwhelming task. The thought of sunny days spent lounging oceanside is enough to have anyone counting down the days until their trip. However, the practical side of planning a beach getaway involves determining what to bring so your time away is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
From swimsuits and coverups to sun protection and beach gear, there are essentials you won’t want to forget when packing for fun in the sun. Taking items that will keep you comfortable, safe and entertained while spending time in the water, on the sand and exploring beach towns will ensure your beach vacation lives up to all your salty, sandy dreams.
Who Should Pack These Beach Vacation Essentials
Packing the right items for beach vacations is important for:
- Families with kids who need extra sun protection, toys and gear for fun in the sand and surf
- Groups of friends looking forward to days spent lounging oceanside and nights out enjoying beach bars and entertainment
- Couples seeking a romantic, relaxing escape surrounded by stunning shoreline views and sunset strolls
- Solo travelers who want their beach days to be as comfortable and convenient as possible
- Anyone who desires to return home with lasting golden tan lines after blissful days basking in the summer sun
Must-Have Beach Attire & Accessories
Swimsuits
It’s obvious you’ll need at least one swimsuit for beach days, but consider bringing a couple options. A basic bikini or one-piece in a dark color that hides sand is ideal for lounging on the beach and playing in the waves. For an evening beach walk or happy hour, toss in a cute coverup dress over your suit.
Beach Coverup
Speaking of coverups, they’re absolute must-haves for adding a dash of style while protecting your skin from the harsh summer sun and heat. Lightweight beach kaftans, kimonos and sarongs that allow airflow to your skin are perfect. Look for airy cottons, breezy linens and soft rayon fabrics when selecting a coverup.
Sandals
A sturdy pair of sandals that can get wet and be rinsed off easily are a beach vacation staple. Waterproof sport sandals that have good traction and can be worn both to the beach and around town for casual dinners and drinks are ideal.
Hat & Sunglasses
A wide-brim sun hat and a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses will become your best friends for keeping sun exposure to a minimum. Look for a tightly-woven straw hat that shades your face, shoulders and décolletage. Oversized sunglasses will protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
Beach Bag
You’ll need something to carry all your gear in, so make sure to take along a roomy, water-resistant beach tote or bag. Stylish straw bags add a nice vacation vibe and tend to be super spacious for holding towels, sunscreen and other beach day must-haves.
Sun Protection Essentials
Don’t let painful sunburns put a damper on your idyllic beach retreat. Packing effective sunscreens and after sun skin soothers can help you avoid red, irritated skin that hurts more than helps achieve that coveted golden glow.
Sunscreen
Slathering on broad spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) sunscreen is an absolute must for beach vacations. Apply a water resistant sunscreen liberally and often to all exposed skin. Reapply every 80 minutes when sweating or swimming. Look for reef-safe formulas if spending time snorkeling in delicate ocean ecosystems.
Sun Protection Accessories
In addition to sunscreen, utilize accessories like rash guards, sun shirts, lip balm with SPF and even sun protective clothing options. UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing is specially designed to block UV rays even when wet. Rash guards and sun shirts add another layer of protection for vulnerable areas like your shoulders, back and chest.
After Sun Skin Soothers
If you do end up a little pink despite your best efforts, after sun lotions containing soothing aloe vera or other calming botanicals can provide relief. Keeping skin moisturized post-burn prevents peeling and flaking for a faster recovery.
Rehydration Supplements
The summer sun and heat can quickly zap your body of moisture leading to dehydration. Beyond drinking plenty of water, oral rehydration solutions containing electrolytes can help replenish what’s lost through sweat. Sports drinks or oral rehydration salts are easy options for staying hydrated in the summer sun.
Beach Gear & Activities
Simply basking in the glorious sunshine is enough for some people, but having activities and gear to enhance beach days and build lasting vacation memories is even better.
Beach Towels
Don’t forget to pack beach towels! Round towel wraps make laying on the sand more comfortable. Sand-resistant beach towels like those made from Turkish cotton or microfiber dry quickly if you take a dip. Using bright, oversized beach towels makes keeping track of your base camp easier when surrounded by other sunbathers.
Beach Toys & Games
Family beach vacations mean packing entertainment for all ages like frisbees, blow up balls, bocce ball sets, spikeball and cornhole toss games. These active beach toys encourage kids to run around while giving adults an opportunity to engage in friendly competition.
Snorkeling Gear
Exploring the underwater world while snorkeling can make beach trips even more special. Bringing your own snorkel set allows you to spot vibrant fish and sea creatures at your own pace without time limits imposed by rentals. Make sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen too!
Waterproof Speaker
Set the mood for lazy beach days with music and podcasts played from a Bluetooth speaker designed for outdoor use. Waterproof and sandproof speakers ensure wet hands or gusts of wind won’t break your tunes.
Waterproof Phone Case
Capture stunning vacation photos and videos directly from your phone without worrying about damaging your device. Waterproof phone cases provide protection at the beach, poolside or on adventures out on the water.
Beach Reads
Curling up with a good book on the beach is the epitome of relaxation on vacation. Load your e-reader before you go or pick up a few beach reads once you arrive. Just don’t forget the book light if you’re staying out to watch the sunset!
Polarized Sunglasses
Pack an extra pair of polarized sunglasses specifically for beach days. Polarized lenses cut glare allowing you to comfortably see the ocean and shoreline for better views and to spot sea creatures. They also protect eyes from reflective UV rays bouncing off the water, sand and concrete.
Additional Tips & Recommendations
- Bring layers you can add or remove as beach temperatures shift throughout the day.
- Carry cash on hand for beachfront snack bars, bars and souvenir shops.
- Pack reef-safe mineral sunscreen to protect ocean ecosystems.
- Bring your own reusable water bottle to cut back on waste.
- Take advantage of beach gear rental companies so you don’t have to transport bulky items.
- Set up a base camp with towels, shade tents/umbrellas secured deeply in the sand if possible.
- Take a small dry bag to protect phones, wallets and keys when going in the water.
With this beach vacation packing list, you’ll have everything needed for making magical memories basking in the summer sun, playing in the waves and simply unwinding oceanside. The most important things to remember are sun protection, hydration aids and don’t forget the bathing suits!
