Beach Vacation Packing List
A beach trip needs less than you might think, but forgetting sunscreen or a cover-up can be a pain. Here's a complete beach vacation packing list, from clothes and swimwear to sun protection and beach gear, plus tips for packing light.
By Pond.com editors Updated 2 min read
Quick answer
- Pack two swimsuits so one can dry, plus a cover-up and sandals.
- Bring sun protection, including reef-safe sunscreen where required, a hat, sunglasses and a rash guard.
- Light, breathable clothes that mix and match keep your bag small.
- A beach bag, reusable water bottle and dry bag for your phone are handy.
- Check whether your lodging provides beach towels, chairs and umbrellas before packing them.
Beach vacations are about relaxing, and packing should be too. You need fewer clothes than for most trips, but a few beach-specific items make a big difference. Use this list, and cross off what your hotel or rental already provides.
Clothing
- 2–3 swimsuits, so one can dry
- A cover-up or sarong
- 4–5 light tops and tank tops
- 2–3 pairs of shorts or skirts
- 1 nicer outfit for dinners out
- A light layer: a cardigan, light jacket or long-sleeve shirt for breezy evenings
- Pajamas and underwear
- Sandals or flip-flops, plus one pair of walking shoes
- Water shoes, if beaches are rocky
Sun protection
- Sunscreen, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reef-safe where required
- Lip balm with SPF
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- A rash guard or UV shirt, especially for kids
- Aloe or after-sun lotion
Beach bag
- Beach towels, if not provided
- A reusable water bottle
- A waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
- Snacks
- A book or e-reader
- A small first-aid kit with bandages
- Cash for beach vendors and parking
Toiletries and health
- Travel-size toiletries in a clear bag for carry-on
- Insect repellent
- Any medications, plus motion sickness tablets if you'll be on boats
- Hair ties and a wide-tooth comb
Tech
- Phone and charger, plus a portable battery
- Headphones
- A waterproof speaker, if you'll use it considerately
For kids
- Swim diapers for little ones
- Sand toys
- Rash guards and hats
- A small pop-up tent or umbrella for shade
- Extra snacks and water
Check before packing
Many hotels and rentals provide beach towels, chairs and umbrellas. Ask before you pack them; it can save a lot of space.
Packing tips
- Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.
- Pack light fabrics like cotton and linen.
- Bring a laundry bag for wet swimsuits.
- Wear your bulkiest items on the plane.
Common questions
Yes, in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less that fit in your quart-size liquids bag. Larger bottles go in checked bags, or buy sunscreen when you arrive. Stick and solid sunscreens may be easier to carry.
It usually means sunscreen without chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are linked to coral reef damage. Some places, including Hawaii, ban sunscreens with those ingredients. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are a common alternative.
Fewer than you'd think. Two or three swimsuits, a cover-up, four or five tops, two or three bottoms, one nicer outfit for dinners and a light layer are usually enough, especially if you can do laundry.