A beach trip goes wrong in predictable ways, and almost all of them are packing failures. This is the full list of what to take and what to wear once you are there.
The organizing principle is to pack light. Choose things that pack small, need little maintenance and work in more than one situation, which is why cover-ups and scarves earn their place several times over.
Swimwear
The first and most essential item. One-piece and two-piece swimwear both work, in bold colors, prints, feminine cuts, lace and trimming.
Pack more than one. Whether bikini, tankini, monokini or bandeau, a second set means you are never putting on a wet one. This is the single most useful packing decision on the list.
Fabric matters here
Choose a good stretch material. Swimwear has to hold its shape against water currents, and cheap elastic fails exactly when you need it not to.
You do not need to spend heavily. A well-chosen inexpensive suit in a bright color or trendy print does the job perfectly well.
The bandeau does two jobs
A bandeau works as swimwear and as a strapless bra giving modest support under clothing, which makes it the most efficient single item you can pack.
Cover-ups and beach clothing
Beach dresses
Versatile, functional and easy to wear over swimwear, and suitable for beach parties and other informal occasions. The range covers tube dresses, kaftans, tunics, baby doll dresses, halter necks and t-shirt dresses.
Shirt dresses
The most practical cover-up, because they also work as ordinary clothing. A shirt dress carries you through traveling, shopping and swimming without changing.
Maxi cover-ups
The most versatile beach companion. Maxis work over swimwear for coverage during the day and stand alone at an evening beach party.
They are made in lightweight fabrics that pack small, wash easily and dry fast, which is exactly what beach clothing needs to do. Tube-top long dress versions are also available.
Mini skirts and shorts
Straightforward beachwear for swimming or for a party.
Accessories
Scarf
A beach staple, and the most versatile thing in the bag. A scarf is easy to carry, conceals whatever you want concealed, and shields skin from ultraviolet light. It also works as a headband or bandana.
Footwear
- Floaters, easy to put on and remove, and easy to clean in water and sand.
- Flip-flops and beach slippers.
- Ballet flats, which carry you from the beach to an evening party.
Avoid leather footwear entirely. Salt water and sand destroy it, and it will not survive the trip.
Sunglasses
Essential, protecting the eyes from both sun and blowing sand. Pack them in a case so they do not scratch in the bag.
Hats
Sun hats protect against ultraviolet light and roll up small enough to pack easily. Plain cotton hats are easy to wash and maintain.
The practical detail is the strap. A hat with a chin strap stays on in wind, and a hat without one spends the afternoon being chased down the beach.
Wide-brim floppy hats, bucket hats and daisy hats are all both fashionable and functional. Hand-made straw hats look excellent, and hats with a large applied flower make a statement.
Sunscreen
Your main protection against ultraviolet damage. Choose a brand that suits your skin and apply generously before going into the sun and the water, not after.
Towels
Carry two or three. You need one to spread on the sand and another to dry with, and the two jobs should not share a towel.
Do not take your household towels. Sand and salt water are hard on them and they will not recover.
Chairs and shade
Carry chairs made specifically for the beach, so you can sit comfortably while sunbathing or reading.
Sand and water toys
If you are with children, take them. Digging and building is most of what children want from a beach.
Cameras and music
Take a waterproof disposable camera rather than an expensive one. If you do bring a good camera, keep it away from the water entirely. Sand and salt spray damage electronics quickly and permanently.
Food and drink
Carry plenty of fresh filtered water, along with juices, fruit, cookies and sandwiches. Heat and salt water dehydrate you faster than you notice.
The packing list
| Category | Take |
|---|---|
| Swimwear | Two or more sets, in good stretch fabric |
| Cover-ups | Maxi, shirt dress or beach dress |
| Bottoms | Mini skirt or shorts |
| Head and skin | Sun hat with a strap, scarf, sunscreen, sunglasses in a case |
| Feet | Floaters or flip-flops, plus ballet flats for evening. No leather |
| Comfort | Two or three beach towels, beach chairs |
| Extras | Waterproof disposable camera, sand toys for children |
| Food | Filtered water, juice, fruit, cookies, sandwiches |
Frequently asked questions
How many swimsuits should I pack?
At least two, so you never have to put on a wet one.
What is the most versatile item to pack?
A scarf. It works as a cover-up, a sun shield, a headband and a bandana, and takes almost no space.
Can I wear leather sandals to the beach?
No. Salt water and sand ruin leather. Floaters, flip-flops or beach slippers are the right choice.
Why take a hat with a strap?
Because a hat without one blows off. A strap is what makes a sun hat usable on an open beach.
See also our swimwear guide and swimwear trends.
