The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List & Printable Checklist

Heading to the beach? Use our Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List to ensure your trip is as stress-free as possible. Packing can be a big concern, especially when traveling to a new and unfamiliar place. Save yourself the extra worry and money of last-minute purchases with this easy-to-use packing checklist for any beach vacation. Just click on the image below to download and print an easy-to-use checklist of all the items you’ll want to include.

Beach vacation packing list printable PDF from Beach.com

What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Below you’ll find a tried and true list of what to pack for a beach vacation from the must-have essentials to items that will make your beach getaway even better than expected. Check out the video at the bottom of this article for some need-to-know travel tips from our editors. There’s one specific travel hack that will keep you organized and neat throughout your entire trip.

Beach Essentials

Bathing suits

Whether you plan on exploring the low-key beach town, lounging in the sun or snorkeling for the day, be sure to pack a bathing suit on your beach vacation. Wear what you feel the most comfortable in, and be sure to pack some extras. No one likes putting on a wet suit!

Beach cover-up

For running back to the hotel room, grabbing a quick beach-side bite or just to protect your skin from the sun’s rays, a beach cover-up allows you to have some quick coverage.

Sunglasses

Squinting in the sun is no fun! Make sure sunglasses are at the top of your beach vacation packing list. We recommend not toting your most valuable designer shades at the beach because sand and salt water can damage sunglasses. Bring along a cheap but stylish pair of shades for practical eye protection from the sun.

Hat

Choose from a baseball hat or a big floppy sun hat. These accessories can be both stylish and practical, acting as a shield from the sun’s strong rays. For the best protection, pack a hat that shades your face, chest and shoulders.

Beach towel

Many hotels or resorts will supply beach towels. Check in advance that you’ll have access to beach towels at the pool before your trip to avoid over packing.

Beach bag

Don’t use your favorite purse or bag to tote your beach items back and forth! Opt for a large bag made especially for the beach. You can find lots of cute and fun options that will prevent you from finding sand in your day-to-day bag for years to come.

Sandals/Flip flops

Ever put on soggy sneakers or shoes filled with sand? Avoid this beach faux pas by packing beach appropriate sandals or flip flops. The most practical options are easily washable, allowing you to hose off any unwanted sand after a long beach day.

Water bottle

Stay hydrated in the sun, but also stay eco-conscious. Add a reusable water bottle to your beach vacation packing list so you can just refill and be ready to go.

Sunscreen/Sunblock

Apply and reapply SPF any time you are out and about to avoid skin damage and sunburn. Be sure to check rules and regulations for sunscreen and sunblock in your destination as many beach cities are ruling out harmful SPFs to protect the environment.

Lip balm

Chapped lips? Keep your lips soft and smooth, even after hours on the beach. The sun, sea breeze and salt water can take a toll on your perfect pout. Pack a moisturizing lip balm with SPF to protect your smile.

Aloe vera/After-sun lotion

So you’ve spent a little too much time in the sun? We’ve all been there! Be sure to bring along aloe vera to reduce the redness and sooth irritated skin.

Insect repellent

In any tropical destination, there are often pests.

Disposable wipes

On hot days, you’ll appreciate some refreshing cleansing wipes.

Baby powder

Beach travel hack right here! Baby powder is a go-to for beachgoers who want to remove the unwanted sand from their bodies without rubbing their skin raw with a beach towel.