We just got back for our beach vacation a few weeks ago and I’m already planning the next one! It’s been forever since we’ve gone to the beach and it made me miss living next to it even more.
I loved growing up in Florida but I definitely took the beach for granted when I was there. We would go occasionally but now that I look back, there were tons of times I didn’t go for one reason or another.
Since I’m trying to plan our next beach vacation, I figured what better time to write a post about the essentials to pack for said beach vacation.
We will be traveling back to Florida in February for my sister’s wedding and you better believe that everything on this list will more-than-likely make it into our luggage for the trip.
Tank Tops or T-Shirts
It’s HOT at the beach so I usually opt for a flowy tank but tees work just as well. You want thin, breathable fabrics that don’t feel too restricting and will move with the wind. They’ll help you feel cooler and not sticky or wet from the sweat.
Shorts
I usually never pack jeans or crops for a beach vacation because, once again, it’s hot, and I don’t like feeling restricted in my clothing. American Eagle Midi Shorts are my absolute favorite because they’re so stretchy and have the perfect length. I’ve also recently fell in love with Old Navy OG Shorts and also found great shorts at Target, too though!
Midi or Maxi Dress
Easy, cool, breathable, flowy, and cute to throw on after a long day at the beach and wanting to head to lunch or dinner. They’re also just so easy because it’s one thing and your outfit is ready instead of trying to match an outfit.
Cute Sandals
I’m a flip-flop girl through and through but for vacation I like to pull out the cuter sandals with the sparkles or extra straps. Just that little extra gives your outfits a more dressy look without being bogged down with heels or wedges. Though I do love me some wedges.
Bathing Suit
This is a no brainer – you definitely don’t want to be on the beach in full clothes. Even if you don’t go in the water you need a swimsuit to relax on the sand and in the shade.
I usually pack two (or more) swim suits for anything over 2 days. I like to switch them out every other day so I’m not putting on a wet suit the next day.
Cover Up
Be sure to pack something that’s easy to throw on over your wet bathing suit for quick trips to the hotel bar, to grab beach food, or walking from the hotel to the beach. Most coverups now days double as a cute kimono for over a shorts and tank for dinner.
Beach Towels
Depending on how you’re getting there and where you’re staying, you might not need these. Hotels usually always have their own towels; however, Airbnb’s might or might not have them. Be sure to check with the host if they’re provided or not.
Big Tote Bag
Where are you going to put all the things you brought to the beach? Gotta grab a cute, large tote bag to bring with you to carry all your stuff. I found my favorite one from Land’s End a couple years back and I love it so much. It’s made from a strong canvass material with large handle straps and lots of large pockets for all your beach goodies.
Accessories
Fill that large tote with your sunscreen, sunnies, hat, and a good beach read or earbuds for music.