The best beach vacations start with a light, well-packed bag. Forget something important and you’ll pay resort prices to replace it; overpack and you’ll drag a heavy suitcase through airports for nothing.
This beach vacation packing list covers everything you actually need, organized so you can tick it off as you go.
Clothing
- 2–3 swimsuits (one can dry while you wear another)
- Swim cover-up or sarong
- Lightweight shorts, skirts or dresses
- Breathable T-shirts and tank tops
- One nicer outfit for dinners
- A light long-sleeve layer or cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants and flights
- Sleepwear and underwear
- Flip-flops or sandals, plus one pair of comfortable walking shoes
Sun protection
- Reef-safe sunscreen (some destinations, like Hawaii, restrict certain sunscreen ingredients)
- Wide-brim hat or cap
- Polarized sunglasses
- SPF lip balm
- After-sun or aloe vera gel
- Rash guard or swim shirt, especially for kids
Beach gear
- Beach bag or tote
- Quick-dry microfiber towel (many resorts provide towels; check first)
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Reusable water bottle
- Snorkel mask (your own fits better than rentals)
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- Small dry bag for boat trips
Toiletries and health
- Travel-size toiletries (liquids in carry-on must follow airport security limits)
- Insect repellent
- Basic first-aid kit: plasters, pain relief, antihistamines, motion-sickness tablets
- Any prescription medicines in their original packaging
- Hand sanitizer
Documents and money
- Passport (check it’s valid for at least six months beyond your trip; many countries require it)
- Visas or entry forms required by your destination
- Travel insurance details
- Printed or offline copies of bookings
- Credit card with no foreign transaction fees, plus a little local cash
Tech
- Phone and charger
- Universal travel adapter
- Power bank
- eSIM or local SIM for data
- Headphones for the flight
What NOT to pack
- Too many shoes: two or three pairs is plenty
- Full-size toiletries
- Expensive jewelry
- A hair dryer (most hotels have one)
- “Just in case” outfits you won’t wear
FAQ
How many swimsuits should I bring on a beach vacation?
Two or three is ideal, so one can dry while you wear another.
Can I bring sunscreen in my carry-on?
Yes, as long as each container follows the liquid limits for carry-on bags at your departure airport. Larger bottles go in checked luggage.
Should I bring a beach towel?
Many hotels and resorts provide beach towels. If you’re staying in an apartment or guesthouse, pack a quick-dry microfiber towel.
Choosing where to go? Start with our best beach vacations by region.
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