Summer vacation planning guide

Before you 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 - I like this expandable one from Delsey Paris - and a personal item. When I’m headed somewhere tropical, I 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 has decent-sized handles (because that walk to the beach is sometimes further than you expect).

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.

Now let’s talk about what you should 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 flying to my destination, I always like to pack one in my personal item. That way, I can head straight to the water (and avoid searching my suitcase for my one-piece). In the same vein, sunglasses and a light coverup are crucial additions.

I like to bring an oversized linen buttondown, 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 a towel. I always suggest a Turkish towel, as they’re lightweight and more quick-drying than a regular towel.

If you’re driving to your destination, you may want to bring your own chair. In that situation, look for a chair 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 more comfortable. You’ll be able to lounge for hours, book in hand, as you enjoy the waterfront views.

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 bag, check to 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. I use the EltaMD UV Clear face sunscreen every day, as it was recommended by my dermatologist, and I’m a fan of the glow - and the high SPF rating - of the SuperGoop Glow Stick SPF 50. As a bonus, both are relatively lightweight and travel well.

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.

While clothing choices will differ by personal taste and gender, 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; instead, pack clothing made from breathable linen or cotton.

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; and cotton pajamas. Depending on the trip, I’ll incorporate activewear into my bag - 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 to 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 suitcase real estate.

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 need 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.

Beach vacations can be entertaining 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, and 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 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.