The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List & Printable Checklist (2024)

Heading to the beach? Use our Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List to ensure your trip is as stress free as possible. Packing can be a big concern, especially when traveling to a new and unfamiliar place. Save yourself the extra worry and money of last-minute purchases with this easy to use packing checklist for any beach vacation. Just click on the image below to download and print an easy-to-use checklist of all the items you’ll want to include.

What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Below you’ll find a tried and true list of what to pack for a beach vacation from the must-have essentials to items that will make your beach getaway even better than expected. Check out the video at the bottom of this article for some need-to-know travel tips from our editors. There’s one specific travel hack that will keep you organized and neat throughout your entire trip.

Beach Essentials

Bathing suits

Whether you plan on exploring the low-key beach town, lounging in the sun or snorkeling for the day, be sure to pack a bathing suit, like this Trina Turk tropical one piece, on your beach vacation. Wear what you feel the most comfortable in, and be sure to pack some extras. No one likes putting on a wet suit!

Beach cover-up

For running back to the hotel room, grabbing a quick beach-side bite or just to protect your skin from the sun’s rays, a beach cover-up allows you to have some quick coverage. This simple Billabong Women’s Lovechild Cover Up is both effortlessly chic and effective at shielding your skin from especially sunny days. A favorite among men is this Columbia PFG Bahama II Long Sleeve Shirt, it’s both breathable, light and the material has UV protection, great for fishing trips and long beach days.

Sunglasses

Squinting in the sun is no fun! Make sure sunglasses are at the top of your beach vacation packing list. We recommend not toting your most valuable designer shades at the beach because sand and salt water can damage sunglasses. Bring along a cheap but stylish pair of shades for practical eye protection from the sun. These SOJOS Classic Aviator Mirrored Flat Lens Sunglasses are stylish and won’t break the bank, meaning you don’t have to worry if you drop them in the sand or lose them at sea.

Hat

Choose from a baseball hat or a big floppy sun hat. These accessories can be both stylish and practical, acting as a shield from the sun’s strong rays. For the best protection, pack a hat that shades your face, chest and shoulders. Make a statement with this fun embroidered sun hat.

Beach towel

Many hotels or resorts will supply beach towels. Check in advance that you’ll have access to beach towels at the pool before your trip to avoid over packing.

Beach bag

Don’t use your favorite purse or bag to tote your beach items back and forth! Opt for a large bag made especially for the beach, this one has compartments for all of your storage needs. You can find lots of cute and fun options that will prevent you from finding sand in your day-to-day bag for years to come.

Sandals/Flip flops

Ever put on soggy sneakers or shoes filled with sand? Avoid this beach faux pas by packing beach appropriate sandals or flip flops. The most practical options are easily washable, allowing you to hose off any unwanted sand after a long beach day, these Reef Fanning Mens Sandals are perfect for men, and they have a quirky bottle opener attached for those refreshing beach-side beverages.

Water bottle

Stay hydrated in the sun, but also stay eco-conscious. Add a reusable water bottle to your beach vacation packing list so you can just refill and be ready to go. Healthy Human creates a range of insulated stainless steel water bottles that stay cold for up to 24 hours!

Sunscreen/Sunblock

Apply and reapply SPF any time you are out and about to avoid skin damage and sun burn. Be sure to check rules and regulations for sunscreen and sunblock in your destination as many beach cities are ruling out harmful SPFs to protect the environment. Stream2Sea specializes in biodegradable sunscreen products that won’t harm the ocean.

Lip balm

Chapped lips? Keep your lips soft and smooth, even after hours on the beach. The sun, sea breeze and salt water can take a toll on your perfect pout. Pack a moisturizing lip balm with SPF to protect your smile. We recommend Sun Bum’s SPF 30 Lip Balm.

Aloe vera/After-sun lotion

So you’ve spent a little too much time in the sun? We’ve all been there! Be sure to bring along aloe vera to reduce the redness and sooth irritated skin. NaturSense makes an organic after-sun gel that soothes skin from all types of irritants from sun burn to razor bumps.

Insect repellent

In any tropical destination, there are often pests. Whether it be at dusk or on certain excursions, you’ll be grateful for a spritz of this bug spray.

Disposable wipes

On hot days, you’ll appreciate some refreshing cleansing wipes. These Biodegradable disposable wipes by GoodWipes are made with soothing tea tree and aloe, perfect for any mid-afternoon clean up.

Baby powder

Beach travel hack right here! Baby powder is a go-to for beach goers who want to remove the unwanted sand from their bodies, without rubbing their skin raw with a beach towel. Simply sprinkle on some Johnson’s Baby Powder, and the sand brushes right off.

Safety/Flotation devices (if needed)

You’ll probably want to float in the ocean at some point during your beach vacation. Get in on the giant swan floatie Instagram craze with Swimline’s Giant Inflatable Swan Pool Float. As always, we recommend that you never leave children unattended and never fall asleep on an unsecured raft.

Extras to Pack for the Beach

  • Cooler
  • Beach umbrella
  • Beach blanket
  • Chairs
  • A good book
  • Music player or speaker
  • Snorkel mask & fins
  • Water toys
  • Beach toys

Items to Pack for Any Beach Vacation

Clothes to Pack for Your Beach Vacation

  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • Undershirts
  • Pajamas
  • T-shirts
  • Dress shirts
  • Casual shirts
  • Jeans
  • Pants
  • Shorts
  • Dresses
  • Skirts
  • Sweaters/Sweatshirts
  • Light jacket
  • Casual shoes
  • Dress shoes
  • Belts
  • Accessories

Toiletries to Pack for Your Beach Vacation

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Brush/Comb
  • Hair products
  • Moisturizer
  • Contact lenses
  • Saline solution
  • Shaving supplies
  • Makeup
  • Makeup remover
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Bandages
  • Medications
  • Pain reliever
  • Vitamins

Travel Items to Pack

  • Passport/Visa
  • Copies of documents
  • Other identification
  • Medical insurance card
  • Travel insurance card
  • List of medications
  • Emergency contact
  • Cell phone
  • Electronic chargers
  • Voltage adaptor
  • Itinerary
  • Directions (printed out)
  • Wallet
  • Cash
  • Credit/ATM Card
  • Snack

What to Pack in Your Carry-On

  • Books or e-books
  • iPad or iPod
  • Headphones/Pods
  • Travel blanket
  • Travel pillow
  • Tissues
  • Lip balm
  • Change of clothes
  • Snacks
  • In-flight medications
  • Valuables (jewelry)
  • Passport & documents
  • Pen & paper
  • Cash
  • Credit/ATM cards
  • Insurance cards
  • Itinerary
  • Keys

Check Out These Travel Hacks for Packing

The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List & Printable Checklist (2024)

FAQs

The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List & Printable Checklist? ›

“As a general rule of thumb, if I'm going away for a seven-night beach holiday, I'd pack two to three pieces of swimwear (so that they have time to dry in between), a pair of shorts and a couple of skirts, four tops that match all my shorts and skirts, and a dress in case I go somewhere special,” Mak told AFAR in 2017.

How many outfits do I need for a 7 day beach vacation? ›

“As a general rule of thumb, if I'm going away for a seven-night beach holiday, I'd pack two to three pieces of swimwear (so that they have time to dry in between), a pair of shorts and a couple of skirts, four tops that match all my shorts and skirts, and a dress in case I go somewhere special,” Mak told AFAR in 2017.

How do you pack for the beach efficiently? ›

Beach packing checklist for longer trips
  1. 2-3 swimsuits - it's nice to always have a dry swimsuit to put on.
  2. 1-2 swim cover-ups.
  3. Loose fitting and cool clothes e.g. dresses, shorts, t-shirts, skirts.
  4. Slightly fancier clothes for the evening.
  5. Light sweater or cardigan.
  6. Sleepwear.
  7. Underwear.

What should I pack for a 7 day vacation? ›

Essential items include:
  • A lightweight backpack or crossbody bag for security.
  • Portable phone charger to keep your device powered.
  • Digital or print map of the city.
  • Water bottle and snacks.
  • Comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler indoor temperatures.
  • Travel umbrella for unexpected showers.
May 8, 2019

How many outfits for a 5 day beach trip? ›

For a 5 day vacation, you will want to bring 2-3 pairs of shorts or pants, 3-4 tops, a light jacket (or a heavy jacket, depending on where you are traveling), and 1 formal outfit if you are planning on attending a nice restaurant or event. If you are going to the beach, pack 2-3 swimsuits/trunks.

How do I pack for a 7 day beach vacation? ›

Fantastic clothes and shoes - you're on vacation, after all.
  1. 2–3 swimsuits.
  2. 1–2 versatile beach cover ups.
  3. Rashguard for additional sun protection in the water.
  4. Four T-shirts or casual tops.
  5. Three pairs of shorts or skirts.
  6. Pants for evenings.
  7. Sweatshirt, light sweater or elegant wrap for evenings.
Jun 21, 2022

How do I prepare my body for a beach vacation? ›

12 Tips to Get Beach Body Ready
  1. Eat protein with every meal. ...
  2. Stop snacking. ...
  3. Cut out cocktails, wine and beer. ...
  4. Eat foods that fight cellulite. ...
  5. Follow a low-bloat diet. ...
  6. Sleep 7-9 hours every night. ...
  7. Don't neglect upper back training. ...
  8. Train for better posture.
Sep 15, 2023

What food should I pack for the beach? ›

Here are our top eight favorite foods to stash in your cooler before hitting the sand.
  • Sliced Fruit. The most common snack people turn to on a hot day is a bowl of sliced fruit. ...
  • Sliced Veggies and Dip. ...
  • Individual Ice Creams. ...
  • Electrolytes. ...
  • Pasta Salad. ...
  • Deli Meat Wraps. ...
  • Fresh Salad. ...
  • Parfaits.

What snacks to bring to beach? ›

15 Hydrating Snacks to Pack for the Beach
  • 01 of 15. Watermelon with Mint Gremolata. ...
  • 02 of 15. Strawberry-Chocolate Greek Yogurt Bark. ...
  • 03 of 15. Apple with Cinnamon Almond Butter. ...
  • 04 of 15. Caprese Skewers. ...
  • 05 of 15. Strawberry & Yogurt Parfait. ...
  • 06 of 15. Watermelon with Lime. ...
  • 07 of 15. Green Fruit Salad. ...
  • 08 of 15.
May 29, 2023

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method? ›

Its version of the 5-4-3-2-1 method includes "five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two shoes (a practical pair and a nice pair), and one swimsuit," though like the Times this formula allows the wiggle room to swap out accessories based on your destination and type of travel.

What is a packing list template? ›

A packing slip template is used to provide detailed information about the contents of the package being shipped. It is typically used to provide proof of purchase, document the shipping address, and provide contact information for the buyer and seller.

How do you pack for a trip without getting overwhelmed? ›

My favorite travel packing hacks
  1. Make a packing list. ...
  2. Start packing early. ...
  3. Plan with outfits, rather than options. ...
  4. Don't write off packing cubes. ...
  5. Get a luggage scale. ...
  6. Store delicate items in your shoes. ...
  7. Pack your beach hat like this... ...
  8. Utilize your carry-on.

How many outfits for a week away? ›

Pack complimenting clothing.

I have a simple equation for a week of packing – three tops and three pants that all must match each other. This way I get nine outfits from six articles of clothing! Throw in a little black dress, and you're ready to take on any destination.

How many outfits to pack for 1 week holiday? ›

For trips that are 3, 5 or 7 days, you will need one outfit per day. For example, if your trip is 5 days long, pack five outfits.

How many outfits for 2 week beach holiday? ›

How many outfits you should pack for a 2-week trip depends on personal preference and the types of events you have planned. However, you should have an outfit for every day, plus extras for the weather. Therefore, you should include at least 14-16 outfits in your packing list.

What should I pack for a week on a beach holiday? ›

Short essentials packing list
  • Sunscreen.
  • Aftersun lotion/Aloe vera.
  • Bug spray.
  • Swimsuits / Bikini / Swim Shorts.
  • Tunic/beach dress.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Flip flops/sandals.
  • Bath towel/beach towel.

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