What to Pack for a Beach Vacation : Your Travel Checklist

Swimwear: The #1 Essential

A beach vacation without a swimsuit? Unthinkable! Make sure to pack a few different styles for all your beachside plans:

A bikini set for tanning.
A one-piece swimsuit for active beach days.
A stylish sarong for walking to and from your hotel or beach bar.
Couples don’t forget your matching swimsuits; it’s the perfect touch for those picture-perfect moments.

Wondering how many swimsuits you’ll need for a full week? We’ve got you covered with our practical guide that helps you pack just the right amount without overstuffing your suitcase.

A woman wearing a green bikini set from Kulani Kinis – Bikini Village

A woman wearing a black bikini set from My Bikini Story– Bikini Village

Sun Protection: Your Must-Haves Under the Sun

The sun may be your skin’s best friend for that golden glow, but it can quickly turn into your worst enemy if you're not properly protected. A solid sun care routine is key to healthy skin and a long-lasting tan.

Make sure to pack these essentials to protect your skin, hair, and eyes:

Broad spectrum sunscreen suited to your skin type.
UV-protection sunglasses.
A beach hat to keep cool.
After-sun care products to soothe your skin.
Rash guards and UV-protective swimwear for long dips in the water.

Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming.

Beach Accessories: The Small Things That Make a Big Difference

A perfect beach day is all about the little extras that make your time in the sun more comfortable and convenient. Pack these smart beaches accessories to level up your day by the sea:

A large, absorbent towel that dries quickly.
A roomy beach bag to carry it all.
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Lightweight sandals or espadrilles.
A waterproof pouch to protect your phone.
A good book or magazine for lazy lounging.
Tasty snacks to curb hunger between swims.

A woman wearing a blue and white floral tankini set from Eau de Sea – Bikini Village

A woman wearing a black dress fromTropik - Bikini Village

Beach Outfits: Guaranteed Summer Style

Hot weather calls for cool beachwear. For beach vacations, go for breathable, lightweight pieces that are easy to mix and match, perfect for sunny days and warm evenings:

Flowing maxi or mini dresses.
Light jumpsuits or rompers.
Linen or cotton shirts to keep cool while covered.
Comfy wide-leg beach pants.
Relaxed-fit shorts.
Resort-wear for a night out by the coast.

Travel Accessories & Smart Packing Tips

Packing efficiently means thinking beyond the beach; it’s also about being ready for the journey itself. Not sure how or what to pack for a beach vacation? Here's our list of useful travel accessories:

A compact toiletry bag to save space and keep your essentials organized.
Chargers and portable power banks to keep your devices running.
A first-aid kit for unexpected little mishaps.
Packing cubes to organize your suitcase like a pro.
A small backpack or belt bag—perfect for excursions and day trips.

A woman wearing a black and white palms trees foliage bikini and cover-up set from Turquoise Couture - Bikini Village

Want to take your prep even further?
Check out our article on essential travel tips for your dream vacation, packed with expert advice and must-haves to keep your mind at ease.

Don’t leave anything to chance. To avoid last-minute packing stress and stay organized from start to finish, download our free printable checklist, a simple and complete guide to help you pack everything you need for your beach getaway.

Download the beach vacation essentials checklist

Ready to pack your bags? Shop the trendiest vacation looks now on the Bikini Village website or in-store and head off to the beach fully equipped and in style!