Hello, fellow beach lovers! Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a lengthy seaside escape, packing the right items can make all the difference in your beach vacation experience. Over the years, I’ve honed my list of must-haves that always make it into my beach bag. Here are my favorite essential items to ensure you are prepared for any beach day.
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This being said, I do not recommend anything that I have not tried/used myself first. The following products are all things that I use and would not head to the beach without!
Lightweight Backpack - Let's start with something to hold everything. While I typically do travel with a backpack it's not exactly the type that I'd take to the beach. This packable lightweight backpack is perfect for a beach day (or excursion). While it is water resistant, I found it did struggle with downpour rains.
Quick-Dry Beach Towel - Nothing beats a lightweight, quick-dry towel for a beach day. They’re not only super absorbent but also pack down small, making them perfect for travel. This Sand Cloud towel is my absolute favorite to bring with us. They are lightweight, dry quickly, are sand-free and can double as a blanket as well.
Sun Protection - No beach getaway is complete without proper sun protection. I always pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to bring enough as resort and island pricing is typically inflated. *Note many locations now require you to use Reef Safe sunscreen.
After Sun - Sometimes the sun can get you even if you've been reapplying all day. I discovered the Coola Organic Radical Recovery After Sun Lotion while in Hawaii and it has saved my skin from peeling when it, in all honesty, should have (my husband has said the same thing as well). The trick is to get it on ASAP and continue for several days after.
Insect Repellent - At some point you are probably going to encounter some biting insects. My go to is the Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Picaridin line (Deet-free). They even make an SPF version. *Do note, I did have some leaking once I opened the pump spray. I love it enough that on future trips I will just transfer into a different leak-free pump container.
Bug Bite Itch Relief - The Badger Itch Relief Stick is my latest go to for when a bite does happen (usually an oops I forgot the repellent situation). It's compact and easy to carry in my hand bag or take with us when exploring.
Waterproof Phone Case - Capture all of your family's unforgettable moments without worrying about water damage. I'm currently testing new brands, I will add a link once I have found one I like!
Snorkel gear - If you're heading somewhere that offers snorkeling opportunities you may want to bring your own gear. This is particularly useful for kiddos as they can practice with it ahead of time (in the pool or the tub) and then have what they are comfortable with using during the trip.
Water Shoes - Some locations may have rocky shores, so having water shoes will help keep your feet protected!
Comfortable Flip-Flops - Walking on hot sand or rocks isn’t fun without the right footwear. A pair of comfy flip-flops that can handle water and sand is absolutely necessary.
Waterproof Jewelry - This is a great way to up your vacation look! I love these waterproof bangles from Blakely Grace that you pair with a night out or a day at the pool - meaning you can pack fewer accessories as they cover all of the bases!
Some of my other favorite places to shop for vacation looks that come with some great causes:
Nani Swimwear - Who doesn't want a new swimsuit for a vacation? Nani swimsuits are so comfortable, so supportive and they look great too! What's even better? They are made from recycled water bottles! Good for you, good for the planet - the ultimate win win.
Lotus & Luna - The pants got me hooked and now I'm also shopping their other categories! The pants are perfect for warmer climates and just lounging around the house. They are lightweight making them perfect for packing. And best of all, you are supporting local artisan communities in the Chiang Mai area of Thailand with every purchase. Your purchases will come with information on the artisan that made your items. Having visited Thailand twice, including our honeymoon, my obsession with the country and it's people is very real.
These are the items that always make it into my travel bag for a perfect day at the beach. Packing smart means you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your beautiful beachfront surroundings.
Check out my list of Top 8 Must Haves when packing for every trip.