If I’ve learned anything during my time as a travel journalist, it’s that some trips are easier to pack for than others. Cold-weather destinations and city breaks can be tricky. But beach vacations and tropical locales are easy. Let me show you how with this packing guide.
You’ve booked a beach holiday and it’s time to pack your luggage. Once you have the essentials squared away – bathing suits, a few casual outfits, sun protection, and sandals – you have the freedom to experiment with the rest of the space in your bag.
So what do you do with it? There are several items I classify as essential or “nice to have” when I’m headed somewhere warm, and I’ve rounded them up below.
What should be on your beach vacation packing list
Here are my tried-and-true favorite items to include on your beach vacation packing list. They’re road tested on trips to the Caribbean, California, and the beaches of South Carolina. I’ve also included products I’d recommend based on research, customer reviews, and their ability to streamline the packing process. Let’s dive in.
Luggage
Before you even start thinking about the clothing, shoes, and toiletries you’ll need, consider how you’ll transport them. If you’re traveling by plane, you’ll most likely be able to fit everything in a carry-on suitcase when your destination is somewhere warm. As for the specific carry-on bag, I like this expandable one from Delsey Paris.
When I’m headed somewhere tropical, I also make sure my personal item can double as a beach or pool bag. This means I opt for a tote made from a water-resistant fiber, like raffia, and that it has decent-sized handles (because that walk to the beach is sometimes longer than you expect).
Pool and beach essentials
Now let’s talk about what you should actually carry in that tote bag. Whether you’re spending the day by the beach or the pool, a swimsuit is a priority. If I’m checking a bag, I always like to pack one in my personal item in case my luggage gets lost.
Your favorite pair of sunglasses and a light coverup are crucial additions here as well. For the cover up, I like to bring an oversized linen button down, which can also perform double duty as a regular top – but more on that later.
If you aren’t staying at a hotel or resort, there’s a good chance you’ll need to bring your own beach towel. I always suggest a Turkish towel, as they’re lightweight and dry more quickly than a regular towel.
If you’re driving to your destination, you may also want to bring your own beach chair. Look for one that comes with a strap or carry bag. Otherwise, you may find yourself awkwardly lugging the chair to and from your desired spot. If you want to up the ante – and you aren’t concerned about space – packing a portable headrest pillow will make your entire experience even more comfortable.
Tropical clothing and shoes
While clothing choices will differ by personal taste, the contents of your suitcase should always follow a few basic principles. For starters, choose each item based on its versatility. Can it be worn more than once? Can you wear it with multiple items in your suitcase? If the answer to both of those questions is “yes,” you’ve chosen well.
You’ll also want to consider fabrics. Heavy materials (denim, corduroy, wool) will stay at home. You’ll be on the beach after all! Instead, pack things made from breathable linen or cotton. These will also take up less space in your suitcase.
My beach vacation packing list includes some version of the following:
- a couple pairs of linen shorts
- two or three good quality tank tops, which I can wear with longer pants or a skirt to dinner
- a light long-sleeve layer (like the aforementioned linen button down)
- a more elevated piece, like a dress or linen trousers
- cotton pajamas
Depending on the trip, I may incorporate activewear into my bag as well. Typically, two pairs of workout shorts, a few workout tanks, and several pairs of socks.
As far as shoes, you really shouldn’t be bringing more than two or three pairs, including the pair you’ll wear in transit. Water-proof sandals are a must, and I like to round out my footwear selection with a nicer sandal (something I can wear to dinner) and sneakers. Any additional shoes will take up unnecessary real estate in your suitcase.
Sunscreen and toiletries
If there’s anything that can immediately ruin a beach vacation, it’s getting a little too much sun. To keep your skin happy, healthy, and sunburn-free, always throw a tube of sunscreen in your bag. If you’re flying with a carry-on, just make sure the product is a TSA-approved size.
I always plan to buy a larger can of sunscreen spray at my final destination (I know I’ll use it), but I keep a smaller bottle or roll-on stick in my bag for immediate application and reapplication.
Other toiletries I add to my beach vacation packing list include SPF lip balm, an after-sun lotion made with aloe vera, and a multi-purpose leave-in conditioner. If you or your kids have long hair, you’ll be familiar with the struggle of brushing it after a day at the beach or pool. A protective and moisturizing hair product, like this spray from R+Co, can help keep most hair types smooth and manageable, even after a dip in the ocean.
Electronics
Electronics and water don’t go hand in hand, but there are a few items you need for a full day by the beach or pool.
If you plan on using your phone a lot, you’ll want to bring a power bank and a charging cord. Just be sure to keep them in your bag and out of the sun. An e-reader, like a Kindle, is another must-have, especially for those of us who love nothing more than churning through several beach reads while on vacation.
If you prefer music to reading consider investing in a travel-sized, waterproof speaker. For a more personal listening experience, pack a pair of waterproof headphones.
Lastly, a camera is critical for capturing all of your favorite vacation memories. Sure, you always have your phone, but an underwater camera like this one from AKASO or a film camera can add an extra element of fun to your trip.
Travel accessories
If you, like me, never head somewhere sunny without a wide-brimmed hat, I’d recommend investing in a magnetic hat clip. This handy gadget allows you to attach your hat to your bag, freeing up your hands to roll your suitcase or fill your water bottle.
I also firmly believe that any trip – not just a beach vacation – can benefit from packing cubes. Not only do they keep everything organized, but they’re also great for separating damp bathing suits and dirty laundry from the rest of your travel gear!
Family beach vacation packing list
Beach vacations provide fun for the whole family, but younger travelers will need a few additional items. A small fan, umbrella, or pop-up sun shelter will help keep the little ones cool. You’ll also want plenty of cold drinks and snacks (ideally stored in a portable cooler) to keep them hydrated and happy.
Most kids will love any beach game or water-based activity, so stock your tote bag with badminton rackets, ring toss, or the classic scoop and toss game. Swim floaties and life jackets may also be required, depending on the age and swimming level of each child.
As these items are bulkier, they may not always travel as well in a carry-on suitcase. Instead, think about what you can order ahead to your destination (or buy once there), but do your research on where you can donate them upon departure.
Tips for beach vacation packing with kids
Let’s face it, traveling with kids requires a lot of extra gear. Especially if you’re limited on space or bogged down by luggage restrictions, here are some extra handy tips for flying with kids.
Inflatables always win. When pressed for space, opt for inflatable floaties and toys. These will be just as fun for your kids, but at a fraction of the space in your luggage. An inflatable toddler bed can also be a lifesaver on your trip.
Opt for a quick-dry hooded towel poncho for each kid, instead of beach towels. These will double as a beach cover up in addition to helping them dry off after a swim.
Use a pill organizer for packing your little ones’ accessories. They’re perfect for storing hair ties, jewelry, and band aids in a compact way.
