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. 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In any tropical destination, there are often pests.

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

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.

Sun-protective fabrics are a must. Pack rash guards, swim shirts, or lightweight cover-ups with UPF protection to protect against the rays while staying cool. They’re especially handy for kids who spend time in the water.

Protect your phone with a waterproof pouch. You can still use the touchscreen for photos.

A rechargeable mini fan or cooling towel helps you beat the humidity, making those long afternoons by the water much more comfortable.

With more destinations banning harmful chemicals, reef-safe sunscreen is required in many places. Opt for mineral-based formulas that are safe for both your skin and the ocean.

Accidents happen. A small kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and seasickness tablets helps you be prepared without overpacking.

When it comes to beach vacations, comfort is key. Pack layers like linen and quick-dry fabrics that work for both beach days and breezy evenings. Don’t forget a few fancier pieces for dinners or resort outings. This way you’re ready for everything, from flip-flop casual to beach club chic.

Keep your beach vacation stress-free by packing travel-sized toiletries that cover daily essentials and all your after-sun skin care needs.

Your carry-on should hold all the in-flight comforts and important items you can’t risk losing in checked luggage.

Make sure your important documents and must-haves are in order so you can handle the long travel days through airports and check-ins.

These extras take your beach day to another level, adding fun and convenience to your time by the shore.

Packing for the whole crew means thinking beyond the basics—these family-friendly essentials make beach days smoother for parents and more fun for kids.