Ultimate Beach Packing List: 70+ Must-Haves

Last updated: April 25, 2025

Planning a beach vacation? Whether you’re heading to a tropical paradise or just a local coastline, the key to an amazing beach trip is all in the packing. Forgetting something important can turn your dream vacation into a stressful scramble, so it’s best to start with a solid checklist.

Here’s the ultimate beach packing list, covering everything you’ll need — from clothing and accessories to entertainment, tech, and health essentials.

1. Beach Essentials

These are the core items you absolutely cannot hit the beach without.

Swimsuits (at least two, so you always have a dry one)

Beach towels or a quick-dry towel

Sand-resistant beach blanket or mat

Beach bag (preferably water-resistant)

Flip flops or water sandals

Sunscreen (SPF 30+ and reef-safe if snorkeling or swimming in natural waters)

Sunglasses with UV protection

Wide-brimmed hat or cap

Reusable water bottle

Snacks (fruit, trail mix, protein bars)

Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag

Lightweight beach chair or foldable lounger (if space allows)

Top Tip: Choose a microfiber towel or sand-free mat—they’re lightweight, dry faster, and don’t trap sand like traditional towels.

2. Clothing & Footwear

You’ll want options for both the beach and off-beach activities like dinners, shopping, or sightseeing.

Cover-up or beach kimono

Casual outfits (shorts, tank tops, T-shirts)

Sundresses or resort wear

One pair of nicer shoes or sandals for restaurants

Sleepwear

Undergarments and socks

Light jacket or sweater (for cool evenings)

Workout clothes if you plan on being active

Rash guard or swim shirt for extra sun protection

Top Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles in your luggage.

3. Toiletries & Personal Care

You won’t want to rely on hotel amenities for all your grooming needs, especially at the beach.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Hairbrush or comb

Shampoo and conditioner (travel-size or solid bars)

Razor and shaving cream

Deodorant

Moisturizer and lip balm (with SPF)

After-sun aloe vera or cooling gel

Face cleanser or wipes

Nail clippers and tweezers

Menstrual products if needed

Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)

Top Tip: Put liquids in a zip-top bag or leak-proof travel bottles to prevent spills in your luggage.

4. Tech & Entertainment

Beaches are for relaxing, but that doesn’t mean you won’t want your tech or some good entertainment.

Phone and charger

Power bank or portable charger

E-reader or paperback books

Waterproof Bluetooth speaker

Headphones or earbuds

Travel adapter (if going abroad)

Camera or GoPro

Downloaded playlists, podcasts, or movies for offline use

Top Tip: Use a mesh tech pouch to keep your electronics sand-free and organized.

5. Beach Games & Activities

Keep things fun on the beach with games and gear.

Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins)

Beach ball or inflatable float

Paddleball or Frisbee

Playing cards or travel-sized games

Waterproof playing cards

Volleyball (if the beach has a net)

Small kite or drone (if permitted)

Top Tip: Pack a mesh bag for wet toys and gear—it allows everything to dry out and keeps the sand out of your luggage.

6. Kids & Family Extras (If Applicable)

Traveling with little ones? Here’s what you might want to add.

Swim diapers and wipes

Shade tent or umbrella

Baby powder (removes sand easily)

Floaties or swim vests

Sippy cups and child-safe utensils

Favorite toys or stuffed animals

Beach stroller or wagon

Extra snacks and juice boxes

Top Tip: Bring a small cooler with freezer packs to keep milk, snacks, and drinks cold throughout the day.

7. Health & Safety

A few key items for peace of mind, because it’s always better to be prepared.

Small first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers)

Prescription medications

Insect repellent

Motion sickness tablets or ginger chews (if going on a boat)

Anti-itch cream or hydrocortisone

Antibacterial hand sanitizer

Face masks (if still required where you’re going)

Travel insurance documents or card

Top Tip: Keep a copy of your ID, insurance, and emergency contact details in your beach bag just in case.

travel bag with headphones and sunglasses

8. Optional But Nice to Have

These aren’t essential, but they can upgrade your beach day from good to great.

Hammock (lightweight and portable)

Beach umbrella or sunshade

Travel-size fan or mister

Collapsible cooler

Insulated tumbler or reusable straw

Temporary tattoos or beach-themed nail stickers for fun

Beach journal or sketchbook

Top Tip: If you’re tight on space, rent beach gear at your destination instead of bringing everything with you.

Final Thoughts

Packing for a beach vacation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this ultimate list, you’ll have everything you need to relax, play, and enjoy the sun without any last-minute runs to the store. The key is planning ahead, packing smart, and leaving just enough room in your bag for souvenirs.

Wherever you’re headed, enjoy the sound of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the feeling of sand between your toes. Happy beaching!

Depending on the country you plan on visiting, or the people you are around, it may not always be appropriate to wear the standard type of Womens Swimwear you would use back home. Some situations may call for you to be covered up far more than you are used to. There are types of modest swimwear that can cover all of your body, barring your hands, feet, and head. These may be more appropriate at certain times. Although lightweight, they may also be good if the water is likely to be rather cold, offering a layer to a large percentage of your skin.