There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach: the sun on your skin, the sound of waves crashing, and the feeling of sand between your toes. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended beach vacation, having the right gear can make all the difference. Here’s your ultimate beach packing guide to ensure you have everything you need for a perfect beach day.
1. Beach Bag Essentials
A spacious and sturdy beach bag is a must. Opt for a bag with multiple compartments to keep your items organized.
- Tote Bag or Backpack: Choose a beach bag that’s water-resistant.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a good quality, insulated tumbler or water bottle. This tumbler from Corkcicle is my personal favorite- beach or not, I carry it with me everywhere because it keeps my drinks cold all day long.
- Snacks: Pack light, non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, or fruit.
2. Sun Protection
The beach can be a blast, but it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Sunglasses: UV protection to shield your eyes. I personally pack inexpensive sunglasses ever since I lost my good pair in the ocean 😖
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat for extra sun protection.
- Beach Umbrella or Tent: For some much-needed shade. I like this tent because it unzips on both sides
3. Comfort and Entertainment
Make your beach day as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
- Beach Towel or Blanket: Large enough to lie on comfortably. I like this blanket because its large and it’s sand-proof. I hate when sand gets stuck to everything.
- Beach Chairs: Lightweight and easy to carry. Or if you’re like me and want to be a little extra, I brought these antigravity chairs with me last time. They’re heavier but I have never been so comfortable on the beach. If you bring a beach wagon (or make someone else carry them 😉), it makes taking the heavier chairs no big deal.
- Beach Wagon: Get a collapsible one for easier packing
- Books or Magazines: For some leisurely reading.
- Portable Speaker: Enjoy your favorite tunes. I have this speaker and I really like because it’s waterproof and the battery lasts a long time.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone from sand and water.
4. Swim Gear
Don’t forget the essentials for swimming and water activities.
- Swimsuit: I like this swimsuit because it helps me prevent wardrobe malfunctions in the ocean
- Cover-Up: For when you’re not in the water. I have this coverup in 3 colors because it’s so flattering
- Flip-Flops or Water Shoes: Protect your feet from hot sand and sharp objects. This is particularly helpful if you’re traveling to a rocky beach.
- Snorkel Gear: If you plan on exploring underwater life.
5. Health and Safety
It’s always better to be prepared for any situation.
- First Aid Kit: Basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Hand Sanitizer: For when you can’t wash your hands.
- Insect Repellent: To keep pesky bugs at bay.
- Wet Wipes: For quick clean-ups.
6. For the Kids
If you’re bringing little ones along, here’s what you need.
- Sand Toys: Buckets, shovels, and molds for building sandcastles. These buckets are collapsible to help save space.
- Floaties or Life Jackets: Safety first in the water.
- Extra Snacks and Drinks: Kids tend to get hungrier faster with all that activity.
- Change of Clothes: In case they get wet or sandy.
7. Things You Might Not Think to Bring
Sometimes, the little extras can make a big difference.
- Ziplock Bags: To protect your electronics or to store wet swimsuits.
- Small Cooler: For keeping drinks and snacks cold. This cooler is my favorite because it keeps drinks cold all day long.
- Beach Safe: For valuables. I really like this one that is disguised as a deodorant stick.
- Laundry Bag: For wet or sandy clothes and towels.
- Bungee Cords: Handy for securing items to your beach cart or chair.
- Portable Charger: To keep your devices powered up.
- Spray Bottle: Fill it with water to cool off.
- Travel Sewing Kit: For any wardrobe malfunctions.
- Playing Cards or Travel Games: For entertainment out of the water.
- Lightweight Jacket or Cover-Up: For cooler evenings.
- Trash Bags: Keep the beach clean by collecting your trash.
- Travel Pillow: For napping comfortably. I like to go the extra mile and bring an inflatable bath pillow because its waterproof!
- Towel Clips: To keep your towel from blowing away.
Conclusion
A well-packed beach bag can turn a good beach day into a great one. With this ultimate beach packing guide, you’ll be ready for anything, ensuring a fun, safe, and relaxing time by the sea.
If you’re looking for some more packing tips, check out my post on What to Pack for a Week at an All Inclusive Resort HERE.
Happy beaching!
