What To Pack For A Beach Vacation

The Only Travel Packing Checklist You’ll Ever Need

A beach holiday is absolutely perfect for summer – lots of sun to top up your Vitamin D, swimming in the sea, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, seafood, Mai Tais, Pina Coladas or icy cold beer! Sheer bliss!

To pack right is to enjoy your whole holiday. We thought we’d help you get the perfect packing list together, so that you’re totally stress free throughout!

So, what all do you pack on a beach holiday?

BEACH LUGGAGE 

First and foremost, your luggage should always be versatile and lightweight. Especially for a beach vacation, you want to make sure you don’t pack too much. You will be lounging on the beach in your bikini or trunks most of the time, so you don’t need much. Your bags should be easy to carry, too. You’ll feel more carefree. 

The goal is to relieve stress, not add to it. 

Here are some things to consider: 

1. Use packing cubes and save space by compressing clothing – then slide these straight into the wardrobe or dresser. Use them for foot ware, toiletries, beachwear, make-up, accessories et al. You’ll be surprised at how much of space you save and you can actually reduce the amount of luggage you need. Use folders for dress clothes to keep them nice and neat. 

2. Don’t forget any prescription medication, and other general medicines like those for an upset tummy, acidity, headache, nausea, allergy, women’s hygiene products, and general things like that. A small first aid travel kit is essential, as is band aids.

3. I always carry a small pouch with a sewing kit and safety pins – one can never know when this will come in handy.

4. Sanitiser and face masks are a top priority, as are disinfectant and normal tissues.

5. Travel documents should be kept in your carryon, money belt or hand bag, and then in the hotel safe. You should always have a photo identification, passports, insurance cards, credit cards. And your frequent flyer card, maps and travel guides.

6. Check the weather forecasted for the duration of your stay, and plan your packing accordingly.

7. Don’t forget to plan your departure!

• Hold your mail
• Prepay bills
• Stop deliveries
• Board your pets
• Unplug appliances
• Secure valuables
• Give travel itinerary and contacts to a trusted friend
• If needed, set timers

PACKING CHECK LIST 

Here are basic items that you will need even if you plan to chill on the beach all day. And a few extras for evenings at the bar or dinners in the moonlight.

• Bathing suits/ trunks at the top of the list, at least two – you can wash and wear them.
• Sarong, cover ups, beach wraps
• Sunscreen and Cooling Gel
• Sunglasses and swimming glasses

• Tank tops, tees
• Shorts
• Underwear
• Belt if needed
• Sundresses for the ladies
• Loose fitted cotton or linen pants and shirts for the guys

• Few fun accessories
• Nightwear and a robe
• Hat or Cap
• Beach sandals or slippers
• Good book/s or your Kindle
• Cell phone and charger, power bank
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste

• Chapstick
• Shampoo 
• Conditioner 
• Soap
• Shaving kit
• Light make-up

• Umbrella
• Laptop or iPad and their chargers
• Headphones/ear pods
• Camera (but these days cell phones take fabulous pictures)
• Adapter
• RFID Blockers
• Flashlight
• Tissues and wet wipes
• Bug spray
• Reusable bags and disposal bags
• Toilet Seat Sanitizer and flushable toilet seat cover

There may be a few other things that are important to you, and this list is just a starter! And it’s always fun to include games, snacky foods and chocolate! The main thing is to pack light and enjoy a carefree holiday. Don’t forget to capture lots of memories!

Photos and Illustration : Shutterstock

For latest travel news and updates, food and drink journeys, restaurant features, and more, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. Read more on Travel and Food Network

Trending on TFN

The 23 Best Places To Go In 2023

Explore Utah’s Mighty 5® and What Lies in Between

Five Epic U.S. National Parks To Visit This Year