The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

If the beach is calling your name this summer, you’re not alone. According to a 2025 survey, beach vacations top the list of travel priorities for Americans this year. Whether you’re cruising the coastline or hopping a flight to the tropics, your perfect beach vacation should start with a thorough packing list, so you can relax from the moment your toes hit the sand. Check out our ultimate checklist of everything to pack for a beach vacation.

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Wardrobe

For many travelers, dressing for a beach vacation is part of the fun. For a coastal retreat, think of light and breezy outfits that can be layered to adapt to the chilly ocean breeze at night. Linen pants, linen shirts, and lightweight knit sweaters are staples. To avoid overpacking, don’t bring your entire closet. Instead, pack a beach-ready capsule wardrobe using a few mix-and-match styles so you can create multiple outfits from fewer items. 

Here’s a sample wardrobe packing checklist for a one-week beach vacation:

• Swimsuits (three minimum, so you always have a dry one ready to wear)
• Cover-ups or sarongs 
• Rash guards or sunproof swim shirts (optional)
• Daywear: four to five tops (T-shirts or tank tops) and bottoms (shorts and skirts) that you can easily mix and match
• Evening wear: dresses, skirts, and blouses for women; button-down shirts and linen pants for men (aim to pack at least two to three outfits)
• Layers: one or two lightweight sweaters or jackets
• Footwear: comfortable waterproof sandals, walking shoes, and dress shoes
• Accessories: sunglasses, a sun hat (baseball cap or wide-brimmed), and a small purse, wallet, or cross-body bag

Must-Have Beach Gear

Thankfully, you probably don’t need to haul all your beach supplies with you on your trip (especially that massive pool float), but bringing some packable essentials can save more time for relaxing. Consider which beach you’re headed to before you start packing, as some have location regulations on the types of toys, accessories, and gear you can bring on the beach. For example, Myrtle Beach’s umbrella size limitations prohibit any umbrellas larger than 7.5 feet in diameter.

A little research before you go can save you a big hassle in the long run. Read up on what beach essentials your resort or vacation rental offers, such as pool towels, snorkel gear, or floats. 

Here’s a basic list of beach gear you’ll want to pack, depending on the amenities available at your destination: 

• Foldable tote bags for water, snacks, gear, and souvenirs
• Beach towels or blankets (if not provided)
• Reusable water bottles
• Waterproof phone case 
• Gear for activities: goggles, snorkels, packable floats, sand toys, sport games, beach umbrella, or sunshade

Toiletries

Between sunbathing at the pool and dinners by the ocean, keep yourself fresh and comfortable by bringing your usual toiletries with you. This includes one of the most important items on your checklist: sunscreen. Unless you’re hanging out by the pool for the week and won’t be swimming in the sea, you might want to opt for an environmentally friendly formula, particularly reef-safe sunscreen. These sunscreens are formulated without harmful chemicals. 

And after a long day of fun, you might need extra support for your hair and skin, which could dry out from the salt water and sun. Here’s a list of toiletries to pack on your beach vacation: 

• Reef-safe sunscreen (to protect your skin and the environment)
• Personal hygiene products, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, body lotion, hair products, hairbrush, and razors
• Medications and pill organizers, including prescriptions and over-the-counter pain relievers, allergy relief, and antacids
• After-sun lotion or aloe vera
• Travel-size first aid kit

Entertainment

Even the most dedicated beach bum needs some downtime. Whether it’s listening to your favorite playlist or catching up on a good read, you won’t want to forget your go-to entertainment essentials. Plus, you’ll be prepared in the event of a rainy day, allowing you to make the most of your vacation, no matter the forecast.

Here’s a simple packing list for staying entertained at the beach: 

• Books, magazines, or an e-reader or tablet
• Portable speaker for beach tunes
• Headphones for solo listening
• Travel-size board games, video games, playing cards, or puzzles

Other Essentials

Lastly, there are a few items that are easy to overlook but impossible to vacation without. They can make or break your beach getaway before it even begins, so they should be the last thing you double-check before you zip up your bag.

Don’t forget these essentials for any vacation:

• ID, insurance cards, and travel documents (tip: use a travel document organizer)
• Credit cards, debit cards, and cash
• Phone, chargers, and electronic adapters or converters