A beach vacation is the ultimate way to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy beautiful ocean views. But before you head out on your beach getaway, there are some essential items you’ll want to pack to make your trip comfortable, convenient, and fun.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you should take on a beach vacation, from the obvious things like swimsuits and sunscreen to some items you may not have thought about like water shoes and beach reads. We’ll also provide packing checklists categorized by beach essentials, toiletries and grooming products, electronics and accessories, and kids’ items.
Target Audiences
There are a few key groups who would find this article helpful when planning what to pack for their next sandy escape:
- Families going on a beach vacation looking for tips on what to bring for both adults and kids
- Beachgoers who want to ensure they don’t forget any critical items they may need while soaking up the sun, swimming, etc.
- First-time beach vacationers seeking expert advice on how to pack properly for a week at the ocean
- Frequent beach travelers interested in new products, gadgets, and gear to make their next seaside trip even better
Beach Essentials
When going on a beach vacation, there are some absolute must-have items you’ll want to bring. Here’s a checklist of beach basics to pack:
- Swimsuits: Bring at least two swimsuits so you’ll always have a dry one. Opt for swimsuits that provide UV protection.
- Beach towel: Pack a large, quick-drying towel or two. Having a designated beach towel keeps sand off your bath towels.
- Sun hat: Protect your face and head from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat.
- Sunglasses: A pair of UV-blocking sunglasses is essential for protecting your eyes.
- Sunscreen: Bring plenty of waterproof broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.
- Beach bag: Tote everything in a waterproof beach bag or backpack so you can carry all your gear easily.
- Water shoes: Lightweight sandals with straps or water shoes are useful for protecting your feet when going in the ocean or walking on hot sand.
- Coverup: For when you need a little extra coverage at the beach or pool, pack a breezy coverup like a sarong, kaftan dress, or lightweight cardigan.
- Beach reads: Load up your e-reader or bring a few paperback books to enjoy beachside.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated in the heat with a reusable water bottle you can refill throughout the day.
Toiletries & Grooming Products
Don’t forget to pack your toiletries and grooming supplies! Here are some beach vacation necessities:
- Shampoo/conditioner: Saltwater and sun can dry out hair so bring moisturizing hair products.
- Body wash: The ocean can strip your skin of natural oils so opt for a moisturizing body wash.
- Lotion: Replenish moisture after a day in the sun with an aloe-based after-sun lotion.
- Lip balm: Soothe dry, chapped lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.
- Travel hairbrush: Untangle windblown beach hair with a compact brush or comb.
- Nail file/clippers: Keep nails neatly groomed with travel-sized tools.
- Baby powder: Sprinkle on your skin before dressing to get sand off easily after beach days.
Electronics & Accessories
Today’s tech gadgets can make a beach vacation even more enjoyable. Consider bringing:
- Waterproof phone case: Safely take photos while swimming or lounging poolside.
- Portable phone charger: Recharge devices on the go when outlets are scarce.
- Waterproof Bluetooth speaker: Play upbeat music beachside or by the pool.
- E-reader: Load up on beach reads without weighing down your bag.
- Digital camera: Capture stunning vacation photos and videos.
- Binoculars: Spot sea life, boats, or coastal views in the distance.
Kids’ Beach Gear
Going on a beach vacation with kids? Here are some top things to pack for your little ones:
- Swim diapers: Use reusable swim diapers to contain messes for babies and toddlers.
- Rash guard: Protect kids’ sensitive skin from the sun with UPF clothing.
- Goggles: Let kids explore underwater worlds with their own snorkel and goggles.
- Sand toys: Entertain kids for hours with plastic buckets, shovels, molds, and more.
- Beach games: Bring portable games like spikeball, cornhole, or kan jam to play.
- Snacks: Pack shelf-stable snacks and drinks to fuel busy kids.
Additional Packing Tips
Use these extra pointers to make packing for the beach a breeze:
- Start with a packing list so you don’t forget anything critical.
- Opt for versatile items that transition well from beach to evening activities.
- Pack layers you can add or remove easily as the temperature changes.
- Bring items like shirts and shorts that dry quickly after water activities.
- Have beach toys and gear like snorkel sets in carry bags for easy transport.
- Consider buying miniature travel-sizes of toiletries to save luggage space.
- Bring extra plastic bags or wet/dry compartments to separate damp, sandy items in your bag.
With this complete packing guide, you’ll be fully prepared for an amazing beach vacation. Load up on sun protection, quick-drying clothes and towels, water gear, beach toys, and other seaside essentials. Just don’t forget the sunscreen with your swimsuits!
Safe travels and enjoy your upcoming sandy getaway.
