I love to travel, and with more airlines restricting carry-on luggage and charging more for checked bags, I hate to end up with things I don’t need or not have things I want. This beach vacation packing list ensures I remember what I need without overpacking.
In addition to the free printable packing list for beach vacations, I have a few tips for you when you pack. And there are some items you may not think to pack that can make your vacation even better.
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When I travel, I have some items I pack that many others don’t know or think to bring. Each one of these either makes my life easier when I travel or makes me happier, so make sure to read through the explanation of them.
And isn’t vacation all about happiness? Use this beach vacation packing list to make life easier, and enjoy your next vacation even more!
Need more travel tips? Check out other favorite travel tips and hacks at the end of this article.
Strategies to Pack Lighter
When you’re heading out on a beach vacation, generally your goal is comfort and not high fashion. Make sure to read up on the dress code for wherever you plan to stay, but then think about how you plan to spend your days.
When I take a warm-weather vacation, I essentially live in my bathing suit during the day. I dress in “real clothes” only for dinner and maybe a show or other entertainment afterward and focus just on my summer travel essentials.
The moral of the story? You need fewer clothes than you think you do, so pack just essential items!
Yes, you absolutely can wear shorts or pants or dresses more than once. No one notices, and truly no one cares.
For a week-long beach vacation, I bring three swimsuits, a rash guard (critical in Caribbean climates, especially if I plan to snorkel!), two cover-ups, two t-shirts, a pair of shorts, and three sundresses.
That’s it. I rotate amongst them, and if I spill on one sundress, I still have others. I wear my “real clothes” so little though that it’s silly to take an outfit for every day.
Use that same strategy for shoes. On the plane, I tennis shoes, and then I bring one pair of flip-flops and another pair – sometimes two – of flat dressy sandals that go with all the evening outfits I have.
Another Tip? Check out where you plan to stay and know what you plan to do there to determine whether you pack my water shoes or not. Some beach destinations or excursions require them while others don’t.
Make sure you look at what amenities the hotel provides, as well. Do they have quality shampoo and conditioner so you can leave yours at home? Awesome!
Do they have a hairdryer that will work for your needs? Do they provide beach towels even if you go off resort? You’re all set there.
Make sure that you bring plenty of reef safe sunscreen for your beach trips. And since those generally come in larger bottles, did you know you can transfer them to TSA approved travel bottles to not have to check a bag?
Use the free printable packing list for beach vacations, and don’t forget about the “extras” and why you need them!
Beach Vacation Packing List Printable
Make sure to click on the image to download the packing checklist.
Beach Vacation Packing Checklist
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What to Add to Your Beach Vacation Packing List
Items to Add to Your Beach Vacation Packing List
[wprm-list id=”38852″]What would you add to a beach vacation packing list?
More great travel tips:
- How to stay in touch for free when traveling internationally
- Why you need TSA precheck
- How to get passports for your kids
- What to know about Beaches Resorts
- How to make customs fast and easy in Jamaica
- Or check out all my travel advice and destination recommendations
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Great tips! I love the printable packing list—it makes organizing so much easier. I always struggle with packing light, so these strategies will definitely come in handy. Can’t wait for my beach trip!
Thanks – I’m glad this is helpful for you. Enjoy your trip!