I. Love. The. Beach. The sun, wind, waves, ice creams, barbecue, breezy naps, drifting in the waves, building bad sandcastles. I tell you, there is nothing like it.
I’ve learned that there is one key thing that sets a good beach vacation apart from a great one: preparation!
Over the years my family has perfect the beach vacation. We have it down to a fine-tuned, ready-for-the-waves process, and today, I’m going to share the beach packing list to end all packing lists so that you can plan the best beach vacation ever!
The Normal Stuff
First, let’s focus on the normal things you include in a beach vacation packing checklist. Why? Because the small things matter! Also, when it comes to a good beach trip, the “normal” things are packed with a little twist so that you’re more prepared for what you’ll encounter at the beach.
Clothes: When packing clothes, think lightweight and breathable. Items like shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, sundresses, and a cover-ups dominate my beach wardrobe. Everyone is different. My dad wears blue jeans in any weather. But overall, keep comfort in mind. But be sure to pack a special outfit or two for beach photos and nights out.
Jacket, sweatshirt or sweater: When you think beach, you think sun. But beach evenings can be quite cool because of the wind factor. I’ve also found that rainy days on the sand can be windy and cold as well. Bring a jacket or sweater to say warm.
Swimsuits: For longer beach trips, I recommend packing 2 to 3 swimsuits, especially if you are a beach warrior who loves to be out in the sun and waves from dawn until dusk (that’s definitely how I role!).
Extra Towels: Even if your accommodation provides them, you can never have too many towels, trust me. I hated having to order towels from the front desk every other day. Yes, it calls for more laundry, but the convenience is worth it. Beach trips generally mean extra showers, not to mention drying off after swimming in the pool or ocean a few times a day! I found these comfy and absorbent beach towels on Amazon. I also keep this lightweight towel on hand to use as an easy wrap or even blanket for my beach naps.
Comfy Shoes: I’m not a flipflop gal, but I keep two pairs of beach-ready shoes, cute sandals and sneakers on hand for every trip.
Groceries: I highly recommend staying at a condo or rental home with a full kitchen when doing longer beach trips (3 nights or more). Pack some easy-to-eat snacks and order groceries to pick up on the way. We also stock up on meat and seasonings and bring those from home to save money and time.
Toiletries: Don't forget the essentials like toothpaste, shampoo, and body wash. For longer beach trips, pack a little extra for those extra showers we take to refresh after our long, fun beach days.
Makeup : Keep it light and waterproof for a beach-ready look. I actually keep a totally separate travel makeup kit with items made for long, outdoor days in the sun and water.
Hair Care Items: Keep your locks looking fresh with shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in treatments designed for harsh sun and saltwater.
Beach-friendly Jewelry: Keep it simple and beach-appropriate with some statement earrings or a cute anklet. Try not to bring jewelry that is very valuable or can be easily broken unless you’ll keep a keen eye out for them.
Coins and Cash: Our favorite beach has some food trucks and ice cream trucks available for beachgoers. We keep a few dollars on hand for snacks while out. We also have a laundromat onsite that is a little outdated so we bring about 20 dollars in quarters for the week.
Laundry Detergent: Just in case you need to freshen up your favorite beach attire or don’t want to bring lots of dirty laundry home, bring laundry detergent! I have found the BEST travel hack for laundry, these laundry detergent sheets. They keep my clothes clean and are super easy and lightweight to carry. They are also very cost effective!
Extra Cleaning Supplies: Wipes or hand sanitizer for keeping your hands and surfaces clean and disposable paper towels are a good go-to.
Hand soap: Yep, I said it. I know I’m not the only one who hates how gross bar soap is once used a few times at the hotel. I use Branch Basics travel cleaning kit with cleaning solutions that can do double duty as dish soap and hand soap! They have this handy travel kit that I’ve had the chance to use a couple of times and they travel easy and are quite handy.
Bedding: If you’re like me, when you’re on a long beach trip you want to feel at home and cozy, brining the lazy beach feel indoors with a restful night’s sleep. I keep set of comfy king-sized sheets that fit any hotel bed on hand in my suitcase. I also bring my own pillowcases to feel right at home. And let’s face it, in this post covid world, I just feel better using my own bedding.
Travel Coffee Maker: This one is for the coffee lovers out there. I have found broken coffee makers in more hotels than I can name. I bring this travel-friendly keurig on almost every trip and I never regret it. I use this carrying bag to add a few extra items like disposable cleaning towels, a little dish detergent, travel cutlery, reusable k-cups, coffee grounds and creamers.
Medications: Don’t forget those prescription and over-the-counter medications! I also bring along my essential vitamins. I like to keep cold, allergy and digestion meds on hand as well. I hate having to go out to find medicine when I’m traveling and feeling under-the-weather.
Beach-Ready Items
Our next items will help you create the ultimate setup for rest and relaxation on the beach.
Weather-Resistant Bag: Keep your belongings safe from sand and splashes with a weather-resistant beach tote or backpack. I’m always trying new bags. Here’s my latest beach bag find.
Beach Cooler: Stay hydrated and snack-ready with a cooler bag packed full of chilled beverages and treats. Check the beach access at your location to see if a wheeled cooler or backpack cooler will be better for your trip.
All-purpose wagon: Listen, when you are carrying toys, snacks, chairs, tents and the like, a beach wagon is a must! Make it easier on yourself and bring a wagon that can make it easier to transport your items. Check out this wagon option. I’ve not bought it, but I would!
Umbrella or Tent: Create your own shady oasis for those scorching midday rays. This is the biggest factor for me in a happy beach day. We started with umbrellas years ago but switched to a tent for all-day beach days. We still bring umbrellas when we’re just heading out for a couple of hours. Here are examples of beach umbrellas and beach tents that have good specs and good reviews that you can consider.
Beach Chair: Lounge in comfort while catching some rays or reading your favorite beach novel. For ultimate comfort, consider these loungers that can also often be found on sale at walmart.com or on Amazon.com. Your normal outdoor chair or low-lounger can also be great. Go with what works for your!
Outdoor Blanket: There are a host of options for blankets and rugs that are great for the beach. These items keep your food and personal items (almost) sand free and make extra space for the family to hang together comfortably or to lay out for one of those great beach naps I love so much. I bought my most recent one from the Vera Bradley Outlet Store. I also like this one from Amazon.
Portable Mini Fan: Stay cool even when the sea breeze isn't cooperating. Consider buying a usb-charged portable mini fan. There are so many options out there. Here is a link to my favorite that has a little stand for tables. You can also consider one like this that can hook on your chair.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from those harmful UV rays with a high-SPF sunscreen.
UV Rain Umbrella: I love a good umbrella for walks in sunny areas. Umbrellas are great for outdoor strolls in shopping plazas or around town. They provide cool shade and protection from intense sun.
UV Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from the sun's glare while looking effortlessly cool.
Snorkel Gear and Swim goggles: Dive beneath the waves and explore the vibrant underwater world.
Sun hat: In keeping with the sun protection theme, make sure your crew has hats all around! I have big, beautiful, natural hair that cannot be contained by normal hats. I love this cute sun visor. My dad and nephew use bucket hats and my brothers use well-worn baseball caps. Whatever your hat game is, keep it strong on the beach for even more protection.
Ziplock Bags: Keep your phone, keys, and other valuables sand-free by storing them in sealed bags.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste with a refillable water bottle.
Recreation
Books or E-Reader: Lounge under the shade of your umbrella and get lost in a good beach read.
Headphones: These are a must for unplugging and getting away into your own vacay world for awhile.
Cards and board games provide a great evening entertainment and bonding time after a great beach day.
Pool Floats: If your location doesn’t provide them, consider bringing a few floats for ultimate lounging at the pool!
Sand Toys: Keep the little ones and the young-at-heart entertained for hours with buckets, shovels, and molds for building sandcastles.
Beach Games: Frisbee, beach volleyball, or paddleball for some friendly competition.
Boogie boad & surfboard: If you know how to surf, or like to ride the waves, these boards are must-haves on beach trips.
Fishing gear: I’m not a fishing girlie but I know lots of folks who are! I always see a few fishermen out on the beach. Consider bringing your gear as well!
Travel-Sized Speaker: Set the mood with your favorite beach tunes.
Safety
First Aid Items: Be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes, or sunburns with a well-stocked first aid kit. Also, jellyfish bites….yep, those happen on occasion too!
Life Vests/Floaties: Ensure the little ones stay safe in the pool with properly fitting life vests or floaties.
Poncho: Be prepared for unexpected showers with a compact, waterproof poncho.
Pool/Water Shoes: Protect your feet from hot sand and sharp rocks with sturdy water shoes.
Techy Stuff
I am a millennial through and through. On a recent cruise to Roatan, Honduras I sat on the beach and watched Finding Dory on my iPad and ate nachos. Yes, I did. I’m all about enjoying vacation your way. So for my friends who enjoy staying connected to the outside world while relaxing at the beach, this section is for you.
Extra Charging Cables for Devices: Keep your gadgets charged for capturing all those unforgettable moments. I like to use battery packs with multiple cables, or cords with 3 cable heads attached. These cut down on the number of cables to pack.
Backup Battery Packs: Don't let a dead battery ruin your beach vibes. I hate running back to the room to charge a device because I forgot my battery back.
Regular batteries: If you’re traveling with any device that requires good ole’ AA or AAA batteries, be sure to have those batteries on hand!
Solar-Charged Outdoor Battery: If you really want to get wild, try harnessing the power of the sun with this solar powered battery. It has ports for USB cords and outlet sockets. I love mine and use it for working outdoors and just enjoying movies by the pool on my laptop.
Wireless Hotspot: Stay connected with a wireless hotspot, whether using your phone or a separate device, for sharing those beach moments with friends and family.
Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone from sand and water while still capturing those perfect beach selfies. Consider a case like this to keep your phone safe in the water.
Phew! That was quite the list, but trust me, each item will enhance your beach experience and ensure you're fully prepared for whatever fun in the sun comes your way.
Because I love helping make travel more enjoyable for you from start to finish, I’ve included this handy checklist to make your planning that much easier! Download and use it for free!
So, pack your bags, grab your shades, and get ready for the ultimate beach getaway!
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