Hey beach beauties,
I’m beyond thrilled to share that I’m about to go on my first real vacation as an adult! After years of dreaming about sandy shores and ocean breezes, it’s finally happening. In just a few short weeks, I’ll be heading to the beach and staying in a surprisingly affordable vacation rental condo right on the Gulf. Talk about convenience. We’ll be just a few steps from laying in the sand, tanning, swimming, and maybe even some sea fishing anytime we want. Excited doesn’t begin to describe how I feel!
Having said that, I tend to be an overthinker, overplanner, and overpacker. I love being extra prepared, trying to anticipate everything we might need in any situation ahead of time. Plus, since I haven’t been on a vacation in a while, I’m a little out of practice on planning and packing everything we’ll need for a beach trip. We’ll be driving to our beach destination which means space will be limited in the vehicle and I want to keep myself from bringing everything but the kitchen sink. So I’ve put together this packing list to help ensure I have all the essentials without going too overboard and wanted to share these beach vacation packing tips with you as well.
Beach Bag Essentials
1. The Beach Bag: First and foremost, you’ll want a durable and possibly large bag to carry all your essentials to the beach. One that’s water resistant and easy to rinse off is an added bonus.
2. Sunscreen: This is a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and make sure you have one that’s safe for the whole family to use. Also don’t forget to pack a lip balm with SPF, too!
3. Towels: Large, absorbent beach towels are a must, especially for little ones who might get chilly quickly. Consider quick-dry towels if you’re short on packing space, so they can be reused if making multiple, frequent trips to the water.
4. Beach Hat: A wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and scalp from the sun is a great idea.
5. Sunglasses: Polarized lenses that protect against UVA and UVB rays are best to shield your eyes and reduce glare from the water.
6. Beach Cover-Up: Something light and airy that you can easily slip on over your swimsuit or shorts and a tank if that’s more your style.
Clothing
1. Swimsuits: At least two or more, depending on how long your trip is and how much time you’ll spend swimming. That way you always have a clean, dry one ready to go.
2. Casual Day Outfits: Light, breathable fabrics are your best friend. Think sundresses, shorts, tank tops, and t-shirts.
3. Evening Wear: Depending on your other non-beach plans, remember a couple of nicer outfits for dinners or evenings out. A maxi dress or a chic jumpsuit can be both comfortable, cool, and stylish.
4. Pajamas: Opt for items that are lightweight and comfortable!
5. Undergarments: Don’t forget enough for the duration of your trip and always, always take extras.
6. Activewear: If you plan on staying on your fitness routine while on vacation with morning jogs on the beach or yoga, pack a couple of workout outfits.
7. Footwear:
- Flip-Flops/Sandals: Comfortable and easy to slip on and off. Also easy to dump sand out of and rinse off before heading home.
- Casual/Athletic Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for exploring, hiking, or exercising.
- Dressy Shoes: Something nicer for dinners and evenings out.
8. Extras: Just in case you don’t have laundry facilities, make sure to bring extras of everything (not just undies).
Personal Care Items
1. Toiletries: Face wash, body wash, loofah, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturizer, and cotton swabs. Consider travel-sized bottles to save space. Don’t forget feminine products that are beach appropriate, just in case.
2. Moisturizer: In addition to sunscreen, lotions, after-sun moisturizers, and aloe vera gel to soothe your skin are great ideas.
3. Hair Care: A wide-tooth comb, hair ties and clips, shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner to combat tangles and dryness, and styling products. Sea salt spray is a great product to help enhance those perfect air dried beachy waves.
4. Makeup: For water days, I like to keep my face minimal and bronzy, but with an emphasis on sun protection. My suggestions would be waterproof mascara, tinted moisturizer with SPF, and a lip tint or balm (also with SPF). Maybe bring a small eyeshadow or blush palette as well for dinners or evenings out.
5. Medication: Don’t forget any prescription medications for each family member, plus a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, anti-itch ointments, antacids, and pain relievers for all age groups in your family.
Miscellaneous Must-Haves
1. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in the sun and when in hotter climates than you’re used to.
2. Snacks: Healthy options like nuts, dried fruit, and granola bars and things that won’t melt in the sun all day are a plus.
3. Books/Kindle: Perfect for relaxing on the beach or unwinding before bed.
4. Portable Charger: Keep your devices charged for photos and emergency calls.
5. Laptop: If you’re someone who works on the go, make sure to have your laptop, mouse, and any other necessary accessories.
6. Beach Blanket: For lounging comfortably on the sand.
7. Beach Chairs and Canopy or Umbrella: For comfort and shade on the beach. Try to find options that are easy to assemble/put up, lightweight, and compact.
8. Cooler: To keep drinks and snacks cool during your beach days.
9. Entertainment: Playing cards, beach games, or a frisbee for both beach entertainment and for use at the house or condo before and after outings.
10. Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone from water damage with a waterproof case, which might also help protect it from sand. You may opt to leave your phone at “home” for the day, but they’re always nice to have for capturing photos of those memorable vacation moments with your family.
11. Fishing Gear: If you’re planning to fish, make sure you have all the necessary equipment.
12. Food and Drinks: Plan for meals in addition to your snacks. Think easy-to-pack options like sandwiches, fruit, and chips.
13. Bluetooth Speaker: For some beach tunes or for use at the condo or hotel.
14. Board Games/Card Games: Fun for the evenings or rainy days.
15. Emergency kit: If you’re planning to drive to your destination, make sure you have tools to change a tire, jumper cables, and a flashlight, just in case.
Pro Packing Tips
1. Create a Checklist: Mark off items as you pack them to ensure nothing is forgotten. Whether you’re a pen and paper or a phone app kind of gal, make sure you have a list you can use for both packing to depart and for returning home. I’ve created a free printable list you’re welcome to use to help get you started with the basics.
2. Roll Your Clothes: This will save space and minimize wrinkles.
3. Packing Cubes: Keep your suitcase organized and make it easier to find items.
4. Ziplock Baggies: Great for keeping wet clothes separate or protecting electronics from sand and water.
I hope this list helps you feel as prepared as possible for your next beach vacation without going over the deep end and bringing your entire household. But worst case scenario, remember that if you forget something, your vacation spot likely has grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, and other local shops to pick up whatever you need. So don’t stress and try to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand – you deserve it. If you have any additional must-pack items or tips, feel free to share them in the comments with me too!
With love and safe travel wishes,
-LS